Senior isolation is one of the most challenging issues facing aging adults. One-fourth of adults 65 and over report feeling isolated regularly.
Isolation and loneliness can have a significant impact on a person’s health, increasing their risk of dementia, heart disease, hospitalizations, and even premature death.
However, there is hope! Research shows that seniors who build connections and are open to taking part in community activities report significantly less isolation.
The staff who work in senior living communities play a significant role in the well-being of residents. These caring individuals not only form relationships with the residents they serve but also have a variety of tools and techniques to combat senior isolation and loneliness.
The American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) conducted in-depth case studies on senior living communities across the country and discovered the many ways staff members play a key role in residents’ well-being.
Providing a Variety of Ways to Get Active and Stay Social
One of the best ways to combat social isolation in seniors is physical activity.
Group fitness classes not only get residents moving but also encourage socialization during class. Many of the Signature Programs in Senior Star communities are designed to do just that. Classes like Zumba, Laughter Yoga, and ShapeMaster strengthen both body and spirit.
The wonderful instructors who lead these classes and programs are trained to help seniors get physically active, but they are also the ultimate encouragers. They help residents celebrate their wins and new found skills. Instructors take time to get to know the people in their classes and support them in their wellness journey.
Warmly Welcoming New Residents to Help Them Break the Ice
Many people find it intimidating to step out of their comfort zone and into the social scene at a senior living community.
At Senior Star, both associates and current residents help newcomers settle in and start to meet people.
Resident Ambassadors are volunteers who give their time to welcome new residents to the community. They also help recognize birthdays and anniversaries and weigh in on what program offerings are most important to their specific community.
Getting to Know Each Resident
The Senior Star associates also go above and beyond to provide a warm welcome, and that warmth only grows as time goes on. Knowing that there is someone who cares and takes an interest in you makes a big difference.
Many residents report that it doesn’t take long before Senior Star associates start to feel like an extension of their family. Residents look forward to seeing pictures of the associate’s kids and grandkids and hearing their stories.
Breaking the Cycle Between Falls and Senior Isolation
At first glance, you might not think there is much of a connection between falling and isolation. However, a study by the Journal of American Medical Directors Association found that senior adults stopped participating in the activities they used to because they feared they would fall.
Studies have also found that increased isolation increases the risk of falling – creating a cycle that can be hard to break.
At Senior Star, our associates help prevent falls in a variety of ways:
- Through programs and classes that help build strength and maintain balance.
- Through housekeeping services that help keep clutter off the floor.
- Through thoughtfully designed environments with handrails and other supports.
- By maintenance professionals who fix all fall hazards in residences and around the community.
- Through transportation that supports access to specialists like occupational and physical therapists who can help injured seniors regain their strength and balance.
How We Do for One Another With Love
In ways big and small, Senior Star associates “do for one another with love” as they care for the residents in their community. Whether it’s a listening ear, a warm smile, or some extra care and compassion, the incredible Senior Star associates make a world of difference each day.
Contact us to learn more.