As we age, our connections to our community can be weakened over time. This is often even more true for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
As it turns out, scientific research and practical examples show that Alzheimer’s patients can benefit greatly from social interaction. Senior socialization is among the top trends in senior living wellness in 2022 and will likely continue to be a major force in the ever-changing senior living landscape.
Keep reading to learn all about the social side of memory care at senior living communities like Bridges® by EPOCH.
Social Activities for Seniors in Memory Care
Mental and physical health are often negatively affected by isolation, and cognitive impairment can actually worsen due to social isolation. A lonely person has a significantly greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Conversely, the good news is that socialization has powerful impacts on overall brain health. The key to improving the quality of life and preserving as much cognitive function as possible for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease is keeping them connected with others and preventing isolation.
An easy way to help residents maintain such a connection is to offer a full schedule of engaging and stimulating activities. At Bridges® by EPOCH, we offer days filled with meaningful activities that may resemble the following:
Morning
– Stretches coupled with citrus aromatherapy to get moving
– Healthy breakfast featuring chef-prepared, easy-to-eat foods
– Fresh air and exercise with a stroll in our outdoor courtyard and sensory gardens
– Music therapy with Eversound® technology that eliminates frustrating background noise
Midday
– Visits with friends and family after lunch
– Concert featuring guest musicians playing familiar favorites
– A feel-good haircut, style, manicure or pedicure in our salon
Late Afternoon
– Art therapy using senior-friendly adaptive painting tools and techniques
– Singalong with residents, friends and staff
– Setting the dinner table or helping with other purposeful household tasks
Evening
– A quiet, comforting massage
– Aromatherapy featuring soothing lavender to prepare for bed
The Benefits of Socialization for Seniors
The importance of social activities for memory care residents can’t be overstated.
A study at Penn State found adults ages 70 to 90 performed better cognitively the following day and on subsequent days when they experienced more frequent, pleasant social interactions.
For people living with dementia or other forms of memory loss, spending time with others engaged in socially stimulating activities can help combat isolation and loneliness.
Enhancing Quality of Life
Bridges® by EPOCH communities have been developed from the ground up to anticipate, meet and exceed the needs of our residents and their families. Our team of remarkable people, the exceptional care and services we offer, and the purposeful design of our buildings all combine to create the most rewarding, secure and nurturing lifestyle possible for our residents.
We understand the concern families feel about ensuring quality of life for loved ones. That’s why, at Bridges® by EPOCH, we offer a wellness-centered lifestyle that focuses on reinforcing individual strength, so residents enjoy heightened confidence and self-esteem. Ultimately, we provide everything residents need to thrive and rediscover a life with purpose.
Bridges® communities are located in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, in the following towns: Norwalk, CT; Stamford, CT (coming soon); Trumbull, CT; Andover, MA; Hingham, MA; Lexington, MA; Mashpee, MA; Pembroke, MA; Sudbury, MA; Westford, MA; Westwood, MA; and Nashua, NH.
Inspiration for Success
At our Bridges® by EPOCH communities, we work closely with families to gain necessary insight and deeper understanding into the lives of our residents upon admission. With this initial information, along with what our exceptional team members learn about our residents every day, we are best prepared to provide highly individualized programming for our residents.
Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.