No matter your age, social isolation and loneliness can have a dramatic impact on your mental and physical health. A recent report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) shows that more than one-third of adults 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly a quarter of adults 65 and older are considered socially isolated. For older adults in particular, research has shown that social isolation and loneliness can significantly increase risk of cognitive decline, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression and Alzheimer’s disease.

On the other hand, people who engage in meaningful, productive activities with others tend to be happier, live longer and have a sense of purpose, according to multiple studies. Senior living offers the perfect balance of socialization, beneficial activities, independence and long-term care support. Whether you are seeking more social interaction, or your personal care needs have changed, you can find tangible physical and mental health benefits from living in a senior community.

4 Health Benefits of Senior Living

1. Regular socialization: Living in a community with other adults—including new neighbors and staff members—offers increased opportunity for daily social activities and interactions beyond your regular circle of family and friends, which benefits your health. A 2019 study found adults over 65 who interacted with people beyond their usual social circle were more likely to have higher levels of physical activity and greater emotional well-being.
2. Daily activities: Many senior living communities provide residents a full daily calendar of educational and creative activities. It’s not uncommon for residents to take up new interests or return to past hobbies. Access to a comprehensive activities calendar is an easy way to learn new skills and experience new things—helping improve brain health as you age.
3. Fitness programs: A key part of aging well includes daily physical fitness. Many retirement communities have an on-site fitness center with dedicated programs available. Weekly routines should include daily cardiovascular and strength training. For improved brain health, choose activities that work the mind and body together. Dancing and yoga are proven to reduce stress and help develop new neural connections.
4. Nutritional dining: Senior living communities typically offer daily meal service and dining options for residents. Sharing meals is a great way to build connections with others and your community. Combined with social interaction, physical and mental activity, a brain-healthy diet can help maintain brain health and improve cognitive function.

For Belmont Village, health and wellness is a lifestyle. Recognized as an industry leader, we offer a daily Whole Brain Fitness program that engages residents and provides socialization for all activity and cognitive levels: from Mind, Body, Awareness (MBA®), a self-directed program for independent residents who want to stay active and maintain mental acuity, to Circle of Friends®, a dedicated, seven-day-a-week program for assisted living residents with mild to moderate memory impairment, to the more tailored care plans for residents with late-stage memory loss.

To learn more about Belmont Village and our independent living, assisted living and memory care options, contact one of our Family Advisors at [email protected] or 310-781-0539. We’re here to help.