Living an active, social life can improve your health and mood. This practice becomes increasingly important as we get older and face various circumstances that create social isolation and cause loneliness. One of the goals at St. Louis independent living communities is to offer opportunities to cultivate friendships and social connections with other seniors who come from all walks of life. Retirement living can be a truly liberating lifestyle, giving you the time to actively pursue your interests and hobbies.
Communities Build Companionship
Living in a retirement community allows seniors to foster new friendships with people of similar ages and interests. Sharing meals together and living in a communal space helps seniors make new friendships. Whether it’s through community-sponsored activities or just proximity, living with peers creates bonds that might not otherwise exist. As a result, many residents do not have to worry about feeling lonely in their retirement years.
Fun Activities Enhance Seniors’ Lifestyles
Many St. Louis independent living communities offer activities based on the likes and needs of the residents. Social activities and community participation can contribute to a senior’s quality of life and a more positive self-image.
Classic Games
Games have been around for as long as people have been able to gather and enjoy themselves. Some of the more popular ones that have appealed to seniors for decades are:
- Card Games, such as Bridge, Poker, Uno, etc.
- Board games, such as Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, etc.
- Chess and Checkers
- Bingo
- Dominoes
- Puzzles
- Yahtzee
Health and Wellness Activities
We all know that exercise is important, but it’s hard for many people, including seniors, to stay motivated. Getting up and moving around can be easier and more motivating when you’re participating with others. Many St. Louis independent living communities offer:
- Exercise and Aerobics classes
- Yoga
- Relaxation classes and breathing techniques
- Interactive games
- Walking
- Gardening
- Tai Chi
Arts Activities
Promote your creativity, imagination, and self-expression with activities such as:
- Arts and crafts
- Music
- Drama
- Dance
Education/Information Activities
Stimulating the mind is just as important as stimulating the body. While self-guided exploration of libraries and computers can be satisfying, they sometimes don’t engage people as much as in-person events. Luckily, many St. Louis independent living communities go out of their way to organize educational or informational events, such as:
- Informational lectures
- Expert speakers on senior topics
- Advice from professionals: physicians, attorneys, etc.
Skill-Building Activities
It’s never too late to learn a new skill or improve an old one. These activities can increase self-esteem and develop a stronger sense of competence:
- Computer classes
- Carpentry
- Book Clubs
- Cooking and sewing
Entertainment
Of course, some of the best opportunities to socialize at St. Louis independent living communities are large events that revolve around people just having fun. These can include:
- Concerts and plays
- Day trips to museums, parks, wineries
- Happy hours and themed parties
- Karaoke
- Trivia contests
- Visiting Entertainers
- Wii competitions
Volunteer Work
Volunteering is another great way to stay socially active and form strong connections with people who share a mutual interest. Research has shown that seniors who volunteer have higher self-esteem, greater life satisfaction, and higher levels of energy. Many retirement communities offer volunteer programs, such as welcoming new residents and participating in intergenerational activities with children and teens, among others.
Spiritual Activities
Spiritual activities, such as religious services, celebrations of religious holidays, prayer groups, and meditation classes can help residents find meaning, purpose, and value in life.
Support Groups
Some retirement communities may offer on-site support programs, including classes and workshops for residents facing personal issues or coping with a loss. These groups can promote camaraderie and a sense of belonging among residents in a non-judgmental environment.
Finding the Right Community for You
Not all retirement communities in St. Louis offer all these services. It’s important to do some research of each community beforehand to see which one fits your lifestyle best.
If you are considering independent living, we encourage you to tour our communities, including Bethesda Barclay House – Clayton, Bethesda Gardens – Kirkwood, Bethesda Orchard – Webster Groves, Bethesda Terrace – South County, Village North Retirement Community – Florissant, and The Oaks at Bethesda Villas – Kirkwood/Webster.
Whether you choose independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, your experience at Bethesda will be filled with compassionate care and meaningful connections. If you have any questions about our non-profit senior living communities, contact us today.
