Posted: May 1, 2023
Each year in May, we commemorate Older Americans Month (OAM) to encourage and recognize the countless contributions that older adults have on our communities. Their time, experience, and talents enrich the lives of those around them.
The Administration for Community Living (ACL) dubbed this year’s theme as “Aging Unbound.” This recognition gives us the opportunity to explore the variety of aging experiences and discuss how communities can combat stereotypes. As we use this month to remember how we can all benefit when older adults have healthy living and aging, remain engaged, independent, and included. Let’s talk specifically about the role that an inclusive, active senior living community plays in a positive way.
The ACL shares several ways that we can all participate in Aging Unbound:
Getting older doesn’t have to define your limits. There are many ways to invite creativity and purpose into your life by trying new activities in your community.
Many older adults take the time to find a new passion or go on new adventures. For adults who live in active adult communities such as Bella Vita, there is something for everyone and residents are able to thrive in this season of life without being tied down with home ownership responsibilities.
With age comes knowledge, which provides insight and confidence to understand and experience the world more deeply. Grab hold of your identity as a lifelong learner, and commit to growing your knowledge through creative activities, reading, classes, movies, and more.
For older adults who reside in adult communities, resident life improves when there is participation in various social clubs and groups. Ultimately, embracing healthy aging and remaining positive has a ripple effect on all those around you.
There is so much power in connection. There are countless ways for older adults to stay engaged and give back at the same time. Some of the most rewarding ways to express yourself and give back to the community involve passing on experiences, passions, wisdom, and skills to the next generation.
During Older Americans Month, consider seeking out the chance to volunteer, mentor, teach, work, and create. While there are many online resources available to assist in finding these opportunities, sometimes they await closer than you think.
Consider talking to your friends, families, nurses, care providers, or the staff of your living communities as there are likely changes in your community just waiting to be claimed.
The benefits of regular physical activity occur throughout life and are essential for healthy aging. However, as we age, it is likely that we are not getting enough physical activity.
For older adults in particular, increased focus on health and fitness in the form of physical activity can bring a multitude of benefits:
Invest time with people to discover deeper connections with family, friends, and community members. Further, getting involved in social clubs and group activities have major benefits to older adults too.
While it can sometimes be scary to think about making friends in a new phase of life, embracing connections with the people around you can bring more joy and wellbeing to your life. In fact, many residents who live in senior living communities find peace and friendship in the bonds formed over their new shared experiences and taking part in activities and events together.
Recognizing how Older Americans Month offers ample opportunity to explore a wide range of aging experiences promotes the importance of enjoying independence and fulfillment by paving our own paths as we age. Additionally, embracing the theme of Aging Unbound not just in May but year-round opens the doors for a more productive conversation around healthy aging and healthy living.
© 2024 Bella Vita
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