Today, seniors have higher expectations for their retirement. They want more than a place to live. They want wellness programs, life-long learning, services, amenities, opportunities to stay engaged, maintenance-free living, and to be surrounded by like-minded people. Phew! Does that sound like a lot to ask? Well, it is not. Seniors are finding all of this and more in today’s independent living retirement communities.
If you are a senior, you may think that a retirement community is not for someone as fit and active as you. The fact is that senior living has come a long way over the past few decades. Look around, and you will find beautifully designed communities with the best services, amenities, dining, and entertainment. They include a stellar social calendar. They have been planned down to the last detail to be everything seniors want them to be. And, if the community is a non-profit, all the money goes back to the community for constant improvement.
What does independent living look like?
What it should look like is your life, only better. Exceptional independent living communities are designed to enhance your already fulfilling life. And there are a good deal of impressive communities to choose from. This means you can pick one that offers everything you want and gives you easy access to resources that support your lifestyle. It should also support your health and wellness goals. Today’s senior independent living communities have generous services and amenities that appeal to active adults looking for more than a beautiful apartment or villa.
How can an independent living community help you to stay healthy?
Independent living communities offer a wealth of advantages and programs that promote multiple facets of health and well-being. To start, staying socially connected and feeling engaged with life is important as we grow older. It is important for mental health reasons and physical ones as well. Studies show that people who do not or cannot maintain connections with friends, family, and neighborhood experience more chronic and life-limiting health problems. These include diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The clear benefits of belonging to a community and spending leisure time active and connected are too important to ignore.
Exercise Programs
Most independent living communities have state-of-the-art exercise and movement studios, personal trainers, and exercise programs that are fun, stimulating, and age appropriate. Whether it is low-key chair yoga or strength training, the important thing is that you keep moving. Even walking for 20 to 30 minutes daily is an improvement over sitting on the couch. Community walking paths are also a great place to meet up with friends for a walk and talk.
Nutritious Meals
Chef-prepared meals in restaurant-style venues are a delicious and social benefit of independent living communities. Meals are prepared with the recommended serving sizes, nutrients, and vitamins appropriate for older individuals. In addition, dietary restrictions are always taken into consideration. Eating healthy has never been easier or more enjoyable.
Life Enrichment Programs
Staying active and being social supports our emotional and physical health. Independent living communities offer members an ample calendar of life enrichment opportunities. Active, independent members enjoy on-campus activities, events, and community outings. It is a delightful way to get out with friends and make new ones.
Opportunities for Volunteerism
Most communities offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities. These could include helping with book clubs, leading topical discussions, teaching a craft, or serving meals at a local soup kitchen. In fact, depending on the community and its needs, the possibilities are endless. There is no disputing that volunteering brings meaning and purpose to your life and increases self-esteem and well-being.
Peer-to-Peer Support
Living where you are surrounded by peers feels great at any age. Studies have shown that for seniors, it also makes a difference in the quality and length of their lives. Neighbors and friends you can identify with, empathize with, and laugh at struggles with helps us keep things in perspective and stay positive. Healthy, solid relationships with people who understand age-related changes can build strong and enjoyable interpersonal connections.
The bottom line is that social and active seniors are happier and healthier. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed the benefits of enjoying the right leisure activities with friends and loved ones. One is that it protects cognitive skills and keeps them intact longer. So, being active and doing what you enjoy helps you stay healthy. That is a win-win!
Independent living at Convivial St. Petersburg
Convivial St. Petersburg’s independent living community, coming soon to St. Petersburg, Florida will be membership-exclusive, maintenance-free living, at its best. And our life enrichment and wellness programs will further enhance the lifestyle our members will enjoy. We invite you to learn more about our community. Call 941-220-5219 to schedule a private tour and see what more looks like!