Merrill Gardens Blog

Activities and Social Opportunities Offered in Senior Living

Written by The Team at Merrill Gardens | Jun 27, 2024 3:50:02 PM

As we age, our bodies may not function as they once did. While rest can be good, rest without any activity can affect our physical and mental well-being. Most senior living communities make social activities and events a priority and offer various ways to keep residents engaged. Here are some examples of these opportunities:

Group Exercise Classes

Attending a group exercise class is a fantastic way to exercise in a safe and age-appropriate environment. There are always experts ready to assist in case any issues arise.

Popular group exercise activities provided by senior living communities include:

  • Chair yoga
  • Water aerobics
  • Band stretching
  • Tai chi
  • Zumba
  • Ball drumming

Walking Clubs

Walking is a great way to spend more time with others and get the blood flowing. Senior living communities can offer walking clubs, where residents take walks in the neighborhood, socialize, and breathe in some fresh air. This is also a great way to get to know the other residents that live in the community.

Arts & Crafts

Art and crafts aren’t just a childhood pastime in senior living communities, they are creative outlets that allow residents the freedom to create and socialize. These activities can include

  • Pottery to sharpen focus
  • Knitting to calm the nerves
  • Quilting to improve memory
  • Photography to preserve moments

Book Clubs

According to studies, seniors 65 years and above spend more time reading than their younger counterparts. Why read alone when you can join in a book club. This is a wonderful way for residents to meet friends, read books, and discuss their favorite pieces of literature.

Learning Opportunities

You are never too old to learn! Senior communities organize educational lectures and discussions that offer seniors an opportunity to stimulate their minds and participate in lifelong learning. In addition, organizing informative sessions on different topics encourages the exchange of ideas and intellectual curiosity among residents.

Music Therapy and Dance Classes

Research shows the numerous positive affects of music therapy on emotional, physical, spiritual, and physiological levels.

Therapists in senior living communities shape musical experiences for residents, including:

  • Playing instruments
  • Discussing song lyrics
  • Songwriting
  • Singing
  • Improvisation  

Dancing is not only a great way to have fun, socialize, and keep fit, but it’s fun! Swing, ballroom, and line dancing are some of the dance options that communities can offer residents.

Games

Games help protect thinking skills in older age. In addition, they promote connection and socialization among residents.

Here are some of the games that you will find in senior living communities:

  • Bingo
  • Chess
  • Scrabble
  • Trivial Pursuit
  • Card games
  • Crossword puzzles
  • Video games

Visits from Family Members

Moving to a senior living community doesn’t mean you will never see your friends and family again. Communities encourage loved ones to visit often. They are also welcome to visit during scheduled social activities and events.  

Active seniors have better overall physical and mental health. When looking for a senior living community to move to, choose one that offers diverse and enjoyable social activities.