By Lorenzo Billie Assisted living in a senior facility isn’t about watching TV or sitting in a rocking chair all day. Instead, seniors can enjoy many activities that keep them mentally and physically engaged as they age.
If you’re thinking about moving into an assisted living facility, the activities below are just a few things to look forward to.
Group Exercise Classes
Most of us know that staying physically active as the years pass may prevent heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and more. Luckily, most assisted living facilities offer many fun exercise classes you can enjoy with your friends.
Group exercises including yoga, tai chi, and swimming are some activities that enhance your mental and physical health. Also, exercise classes may improve your balance and flexibility, which are critical to avoid falls as the years pass.
Some facilities offer chair exercise courses, and others have water aerobics for people with joint and arthritis issues.
When you think about exercise classes, experts say to remember that no one exercise is for every resident. Everything depends on your physical and mental state. Some in the class may move quickly, while others could require a wheelchair or other assistance.
Consider your situation and activity level before you decide if you want to try water aerobics or weightlifting. You may need to be checked by a healthcare professional before starting an exercise program.
But don’t worry – most assisted living facility residents can engage in some kind of exercise class.
Walking Clubs
Simply going for walks every day is a fantastic way to maintain your fitness. Plus, being outside and breathing fresh air will enhance your mental health and release endorphins that provide a sense of wellbeing.
Walking in the neighborhood around your senior living facility is a quick and affordable way to stay active. And you can usually make friends, and that helps to keep you mentally active and engaged, as well.
Music Classes
Music has a unique ability to improve our mood, reduce stress and agitation, and even boost happiness. Listening to music is also a beautiful way to spend time with friends and family.
Some assisted living facilities have live concerts featuring local bands or ensembles. And others feature music appreciation classes where residents listen to and comment about their favorite types of music.
Educational Speakers
Most people learn throughout their lives. So residents often enjoy having educational speakers who talk about current events, music, exercise, health, and other topics. These classes help you and your friends stay current about what’s happening in the world and community.
Reminiscing
These classes are about remembering people of the past, such as old Hollywood actors and actresses. Other courses may involve residents bringing family photos and memorabilia and talking about their lives.
These classes can be an effective way for residents to engage with others in the facility and talk about happy memories.
Summary
There are so many enjoyable activities to choose from when you reside in an assisted living facility. However, if you choose an exercise program, remember that you will lose some muscle strength as you get older.
But keep in mind that most of the decreases in physical stamina are because too many of us are passive and inactive. If you don’t engage in any type of exercise, your strength will decline faster. And sitting around for too long can increase your risk of falls, heart disease, and other problems.
Much of the loss of strength in our older years can be prevented if we stay physically active. So select a few mental and physical activities at your assisted living center, which will help you remain mentally and physically active.
james