Creating Community: Senior Living’s Role in Reducing Loneliness

October 15, 2024 | Blog

We all experience loneliness sometimes, but seniors can be especially susceptible to feeling isolated. And more than a few factors can cause our social circles to shrink — including having health issues that lead to a less active lifestyle or being retired and no longer having workplace camaraderie.

For those seeking companionship and connection, senior living communities can be the perfect solution. Complete with a vibrant built-in social environment, these dynamic communities are thoughtfully designed to promote participation, interaction and a true sense of belonging.

Senior living communities reduce loneliness by providing:

• Common areas conducive to camaraderie. At a senior living community like Friendship Village, you’ll find inviting spaces just made for mingling. Shared dining rooms, lounges, game rooms, activity centers and beautiful outdoor areas — all of them beckoning conversation and informal gatherings.

• Planned social activities. There’s never a shortage of activities at retirement communities. From entertaining events like wine tastings and game nights, to wellness-centered offerings like Tai Chi and yoga classes, to intellectually stimulating activities like book clubs and museum visits, to creative outlets like writing classes and art classes, there’s something for everyone. Friendship Village residents enjoy a wide variety of life-enriching activities to suit every interest. And our residents can participate when it’s most convenient for them, since we schedule our activities at various times throughout the day to accommodate different routines and preferences.

• Professional support and care. Even with a wealth of things to do at a senior living community, it’s important to remember that not all residents are naturally outgoing. That’s why at Friendship Village, we focus on making sure more introverted seniors always feel included, with staff trained to recognize signs of loneliness and encourage participation.
  
  For example, they might introduce a resident to others who seem to have similar interests and suggest activities for them to do together, or they could organize smaller, more intimate get-togethers that are less intimidating than larger events. Some communities also provide one-on-one companionship programs, with volunteers or staff members spending time with residents who may need a little extra support to engage socially.

• Welcomed visits from family and friends. While forming new relationships is important, it’s also crucial to maintain established relationships. Senior living communities foster this by encouraging regular visits from family and friends that keep these connections strong. Many communities often have designated areas and flexible visiting hours that make it even easier for loved ones to stop by.

• Rewarding opportunities for volunteering. Studies have shown that giving back and helping others is one of the best ways to reduce depression and improve outlook and emotional fulfillment. At Friendship Village, we offer volunteering opportunities that give you the chance to contribute and serve, both on campus and in the surrounding community.
  

If you’re looking for lasting friendships and a strong sense of community in a supportive environment, you’ll find it all at Friendship Village. You’ll feel anything but lonely, while also maintaining your independence through private living spaces and the freedom to enjoy solitude whenever you’d like.

We’d be happy to give you a personal tour of our vibrant community in Kalamazoo. Get in touch with us and one of our residency counselors will contact you soon!