Blog

Why Activities Matter in Assisted Living

Life in assisted living is about more than just comfort and care. It’s about creating an environment that feels like home. Engaging activities play a vital role in the health and wellbeing of our residents. Through scheduled activities, our team creates opportunities for our community to learn, grow, play and get moving every day.  

In honor of National Activity Professionals week, here are three main benefits of activity programs in assisted living facilities. 

Better physical health 

Seniors who get regular physical activity are more likely to be healthier. Physical activity helps seniors maintain balance, strength, mobility and possibly more independence later in life. In fact, inactivity is often to blame when older adults become less independent. Physical activity has been proven to reduce the risk of falls by improving balance, reduce fatigue, and boost stamina and energy by improving blood flow to the heart and tissues. 

Physical activity also reduces the risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and some cancers. With more movement, seniors can help lessen reliance on medication by helping stabilize blood pressure, managing weight, and reducing the risk of depression and anxiety. Inactive adults of any age face higher risk for some diseases and even mortality.  

Better cognitive function 

Cognitive function is the brain processes that are essential for everyday activities including attention, memory, learning, reasoning, perception, and problem solving. A decline in cognitive function usually leads to less independence.  

According to a study funded by the National Institute on Aging, “engaging in a variety of activities may provide protective benefits against the effects of age-related cognitive decline…” Activities like chair yoga, walking club, or learning a new craft get seniors thinking, moving and socializing and are shown to strengthen cognitive function in participating older adults.  

Improved emotional well-being and better mental health 

Social activities have been proven to reduce feelings of isolation and depression among older adults. Activities like cooking clubs, group sports, and games require residents to interact and work together. People report being happier and healthier when they engage in meaningful activities, whether that’s volunteering, gardening, participating in a club, or anything in between. As a result, they tend to be more resilient and better able to bounce back from life events. 

At Charlesgate, our amazing activities team continues to enhance their activity program with recreational offerings to get every resident excited and engaged. Our program focuses on physical activity, wellness programs, and life enrichment through a variety of offerings like beach ball volleyball, yoga, cooking club, arts and crafts, and tasting parties. We have a rotating list of wellness activities and educational series such as pet therapy or tips for living with COPD. Come see what makes Charlesgate’s activity program exceptional! Schedule a visit today and experience our engaging and diverse offerings firsthand.