Health Beneftis of Moving to Senior Living

September is Healthy Aging Month. Aging gracefully and with health means something different to each of us. What does it mean to you? This article focuses on three health benefits of moving to senior living:  Nutrition,  Socialization and Access to Health Care.

Nutrition

When a senior lives alone there may be concern about how well they are eating. If you notice your loved one is losing weight you may be concerned. They may be eating only empty calories. Or maybe they aren’t able to fix nutritious meals for a variety of reasons; they are too tired, they aren’t hungry, nothing tastes good…these are all things that older adults experience. Yet in a setting where they are eating with other people, they do find that meals taste better. They come to meals for the benefit of not just nutrition but for socialization. Most communities put a lot of emphasis on meals and provide:

• On-site restaurant
• Meals that are nutritional and based on recommended daily allowances
• Diet modifications specific to your needs

Socialization

Having a person to discuss the weather with over a meal or to chat with during a card game makes us feel better. We don’t have to be extroverts to enjoy a conversation. Research proves that socialization is beneficial to our health.  I’ve heard clients tell me after a loved one has moved, “I call her and she’s never in her unit”.

Senior living provides:

•  Scheduled programs of activities; flower decorating, lectures, bingo, the list goes on and on
•  Regular outings to grocery stores or Target, lunch outings, entertainment, and ocommunity attractions
• A  natural environment designed for seniors to meet others with like interests

Access to Health Care

Of course a health benefit to senior living is access to health services and care. Assisted communities provide:

•  Staff available 24/7- 365 days a year
• Nurse assessments for those receiving health care services
• Help with activities of daily living when you need it
• Often access to onsite podiatry, therapy

If you have a parent that would like to hear firsthand about the benefits of senior living have them call Choice Connections. We’d be happy to share.