5 Pillars to Healthy Aging in Assisted Living Communities

Welcome to Healthy Aging Month, a time to be mindful of our health as we and the people we love grow older. Residents of assisted living communities often face unique challenges, but with the right approach, you can take charge of your well-being and age gracefully, both in body and mind.

The Importance of Healthy Aging

Our physical, mental, dietary, and social needs change as we age. However, these changes don’t mean you’ve lost control. You can enjoy a fulfilling and vibrant life by taking a proactive approach to your health. Here are the five areas of health to focus on:

1. Get Moving

Staying active is crucial for healthy aging. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure, and improve blood cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Consult Your Doctor: Before starting any exercise regime, it's vital to consult with your healthcare provider to understand your limitations and modify activities if needed.
Start Slow: Begin with simple activities like walking for ten to fifteen minutes three to four days a week. Gradually increase the duration and intensity as you build up stamina.
Aim for 150 Minutes: Adults over 65 should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week.
Make It Fun: Choose activities you enjoy, whether dancing, gardening, or joining an exercise class.

Tips for Staying Active:

For Assisted Living Staff: Offer a variety of exercise classes tailored to different mobility levels and interests.
For Residents: Join group activities to stay motivated and enjoy social interaction.
For Family Members: Encourage and participate in physical activities when visiting, such as a walk in the park or light stretching exercises.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Nutrition plays a significant role in healthy aging. Eating well can prevent chronic diseases and boost overall health. Diet has been linked to Alzheimer's, bone health, cancers, and several other conditions not just as a contributing factor to developing those issues but also in managing them. Keep these in mind:

Proper Portion Sizes: Avoid overeating to prevent obesity and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Aim to make half of your plate consist of fruits and vegetables.
Avoid Processed Foods: Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.
Stay Hydrated: Adults of all ages should drink 10-16 cups of water daily, depending on gender, living environment, and activity level.

Putting Your Diet into Action:

For Assisted Living Staff: Provide nutritious meals and educate residents on healthy eating habits. Be aware of how much, how often, and how well your residents eat at mealtime.
For Residents: Make mindful food choices and remember to eat a well-balanced diet, If you have preferences, feel comfortable requesting meals or certain foods—or even prefer preparation of certain foods. If your community offers cooking classes or allows you to help in meal preparation, this can be socially enjoyable and keep you mindful of what you eat.
For Family Members: Bring healthy snacks during visits and encourage balanced eating habits. Inquire to caregivers about how your loved one is eating and whether they are getting balanced meals.

3. Stay Social

Social interactions are essential for mental and emotional well-being. They help reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, especially in the aging population. Assisted living communities offer a significant advantage due to the communal environment they offer residents.

Participate in Community Activities: Larger assisted living communities are likelier to have a calendar of coordinated events on-premise and off-site. Meal time is perfect for socializing with other residents, visitors, and caretakers. For those living independently or in Care Homes that may not offer daily activities, attend online or in-person classes that interest you, such as art, music, movies, or book clubs.
Use Technology: Stay connected with friends and family through Zoom, FaceTime, or other video calling platforms.

Ideas for Staying Connected & Engaged:

For Assisted Living Staff: Organize regular social events and facilitate gatherings. Encourage residents to participate as much as they are comfortable. Sometimes, a little extra support and reminders are needed for residents who may have mobility challenges or who are less socially inclined. Residents with dementia benefit from the stimulation as well, even if their engagement may be limited.
For Residents: Take the initiative to join community activities and reach out to fellow residents. Don’t be uncomfortable asking for help to attend an activity!
For Family Members: Schedule regular calls and visits and involve your loved ones in family events as much as possible. When visiting, take a few minutes to review the activities and opportunities for social engagement that the community offers and encourage your loved one to participate. Think about following up to remind them of the events or calling to ask how the events went!

4. Balance Your Body and Mind

Maintaining mental and physical balance is crucial for overall health for people of all ages. Regular physical activities like walking or gentle stretching can improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls. Participating in social and recreational activities can enhance cognitive function and emotional well-being. By fostering a holistic approach to health that includes both body and mind, elderly individuals can enjoy a higher quality of life, remain active, and feel more connected to their community.

Positive Attitude: Keep a positive outlook on life.
Mind Activities: To keep your mind sharp, engage in activities like reading, puzzles, or other brain games.
Body Stretches: Incorporate stretches or yoga into your daily routine to maintain flexibility and strength.

Challenges & Solutions:

For Assisted Living Staff: Provide resources and classes focused on mental and physical well-being.
For Residents: Participate in available programs and practice mindfulness techniques.
For Family Members: Encourage and support your loved ones in maintaining these activities.

5. Be Proactive with Health

Preventive care is essential for detecting and managing potential health issues early.

Regular Checkups: Schedule regular visits with your healthcare provider, dentist, and optometrist.
Fall Prevention: Falls are the most common type of accidents in people 65 and older. They are also a major cause of hospitalization related to injury in this age group. Still, you can take steps to avoid them, from home safety to reviewing medications.
Medications: Take all prescribed medications, vitamins, and supplements as directed. If you have any concerns or confusion about medications, always refer to your caregivers and doctors.

Ways to Take Charge of Well-Being:

For Assisted Living Staff: Assist residents in scheduling appointments and provide transportation if needed.
For Residents: Keep track of your medical appointments and medication schedules. Don’t be concerned about asking for help with these responsibilities.
For Family Members: Help your loved ones manage their healthcare needs and accompany them to appointments when possible. Be a part of their medical and be their advocate.

Conclusion

Healthy aging is achievable with the right mindset and support. By focusing on physical activity, nutrition, social engagement, mental balance, and proactive health care, you can enjoy a fulfilling and vibrant life in your assisted living community.

Let's celebrate Healthy Aging Month and take charge of our well-being!

Assisted Living•Health and Care Needs•Senior Living