IN Mt. Lebanon Summer 2017 | Page 15

INDUSTRY INSIGHT CONTINUING CARE SPONSORED CONTENT ENHANCE YOUR SOCIAL LIFE AT AN INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY S ocialization for older adults is an important element in healthy aging. For a variety of reasons, maintaining a social schedule can become difficult as we age. Independent living communities provide a wide range of activities and opportunities to build new friendships and stay active. The benefits of socialization are numerous. Prevents Loneliness/Isolation – Isolation is a precipitating factor for depression in older adults. Having activities to look forward to and being surrounded by friends and staff who care about your well- being curbs the feeling of loneliness and avoids depression. Improves Physical Health – Many independent living communities offer fitness programs to maintain physical health. At Asbury Heights, the SeniorFITness Program focuses on mobility and is customized for every resident. We keep you moving so that you can stay as healthy as possible. Improves Mental Health – Our “neurobic” programs exercise the mind and help to reduce the risk of dementia. An active brain improves mental health. Gives a Sense of Purpose and Belonging – Many activities are focused on helping others, like knitting head caps for newborns. Your involvement is not only needed to help others, but in the process you are helping yourself by having a sense of purpose and belonging. Increases Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem – When you learn something new and master it, you feel a sense of pride and your confidence is boosted. Having activities available all the time gives you opportunities to regularly learn new things. Helps Develop a Spiritual Connection with a Higher Power – Connecting with a community that celebrates diversity of faith is important. Asbury Heights celebrates people of all faiths and offers ecumenical worship. Encourages Developing New Friendships – Moving to an independent living community provides an opportunity to forge new friendships and to maintain those you have had for life. It’s an exciting time to meet new neighbors and to merge old friends with new. Improves Overall Quality of Life – When you no longer have the stress of home maintenance – landscaping, snow removal, exterior painting, etc. – a weight is lifted, and you are able to be active doing the things you want to do. Your busy lifestyle takes on a whole new meaning as your socialization increases and your burdens of responsibility decrease. I’ve heard from so many that they wish they had made the decision to move to an independent living community five years earlier. Socialization is one of the many benefits. If you’re curious to know more or learn about other benefits, give me a call. I’d love to show you around Asbury Heights, and we can talk more about how a move can benefit you. I can be reached at 412.571.5133 or by email at [email protected]. This Industry Insight was written by John Komisary. John is Director of Sales and Marketing at Asbury Heights and has extensive experience working with older adults in continuing care retirement communities in Pittsburgh. A new style of living. The Allemont of Asbury Heights. When making the choice to continue your independent lifestyle, choose a new style of living: The Allemont of Asbury Heights. Newly renovated apartments feature spacious, open-concept designs, many with outdoor patios. Act soon—special incentives are available for a limited time.