Posted: December 21, 2020
Having Fun and Staying Active During COVID-19 Restrictions
Balancing the need for socialization with the need to stay safe and comply with health department restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging. At Bella Vita, team members and residents are finding creative ways to have fun and stay active during this unique time.
Health Risks of Loneliness and Isolation
According to a report from AARP Foundation and the United Health Foundation, the coronavirus pandemic is “causing an epidemic of loneliness and social isolation among adults, carrying with it significant health and emotional risks.” Older adults are particularly at risk because they are more likely to live alone. Current research suggests loneliness and social isolation can lead to an increased risk of dementia, stroke, and coronary artery disease.
Knowing that isolation takes a toll on the mental and physical wellbeing of older adults, Bella Vita team members work to make sure residents have the resources they need to stay connected to with their friends and family members while also providing opportunities for safe socialization with their neighbors and friends within the community.
The Value of Community Engagement
A 55+ active adult community like Bella Vita provides a perfect place to forge new and lasting friendships. When health department restrictions went into place, Bella Vita residents and team members found creative ways to adapt activities to have fun and stay connected, while also staying safe.
Opportunities for residents to engage, mingle, learn, and grow are built into life at Bella Vita. Every month engaged residents help create a calendar of events and ideas that includes physical activity, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Continuing education opportunities, movie selections, and our monthly newsletter are created and driven by residents. Recent examples include Mimosas and Muffins where we celebrated the one-year marriage anniversary of two special residents. Residents have decorated their homes and outdoor spaces for the holidays and have enjoyed special treats from local businesses for National Cookie Day.
“The residents of Bella Vita have shown great resilience during this time. It is our job to ensure that we continue to keep Bella Vita’s legacy alive and well in the safest way possible. The team at Bella Vita and the residents worked together to create a calendar for December that was both fun and meaningful and allowed for social distancing. I personally believe that the love, humor and encouragement that has manifested at Bella Vita is the primary reason why we all continue to thrive.” Audra Parker; Community Director.
Enjoying Life the Beautiful Life
Bella Vita means the good life and our focus is to create an inclusive community for residents to thrive. Our location within walking distance of On Havana Street offers easy access to a variety of department stores, public art displays, and dining options. With community spaces like a bistro, fitness center, outdoor terrace and community room, residents can gather, at a safe distance of course, to play games, watch movies and more.
With a variety of floor plans to choose from and an all-inclusive lifestyle with a variety of amenities, Bella Vita is a place you can call home, and find friends to have fun with! Contact us with questions or to schedule a live virtual tour.