Purposeful interaction in your senior years is an excellent way to support brain health. Starting a conversation, retelling an old story, and enjoying a game of cards with a friend can all help to boost moods and give brain cells a quick workout, so they can be a protective mechanism for seniors worried about memory loss or cognitive decline.
According to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation, recent research on the topic found that staying socially engaged may actually delay the onset of dementia or Alzheimer's. Read on as we explore some of the ways we make social interaction central to what we offer at TerraBella Lincolnton, NC.
As we age, social connections alter. Perhaps children grow up and leave home, starting families of their own, for example. Yet our need for social interaction doesn't change, and it's central to our well-being and brain health.
Without regular interaction, seniors risk loneliness and isolation that can put their mental and physical health at risk. In contrast, everyday interactions in person give us a chance to talk, share experiences, and feel seen, which helps us feel more balanced and gives us an opportunity for mental stimulation.
That's one of the reasons residents feel happy and at home when they move into TerraBella Lincolnton. We make interactions part of everyday life through our group activities and beautiful communal spaces.
Starting a conversation with a friendly face does more than lift mood. It can actually support brain health.
Talking gives us lots of opportunities to use different parts of our brains. For example, when sharing past experiences, we are tapping into memory recall, and when listening to others, we are strengthening our focus and attention skills.
While these interactions might feel normal, they are helping to activate different parts of the brain and strengthen areas that are at risk of decline as we get older.
In a senior living community, there are natural opportunities for everyday interaction that don't feel forced, such as talking over breakfast, on a walk, or when attending an arts and crafts workshop. Each of these touchpoints is a chance to work your brain and keep it healthy.
It's easier than you think to stay socially engaged and mentally active in old age, especially when you enjoy the benefits of senior community living. At TerraBella Lincolnton, for example, we have a daily schedule of activities that seniors can join.
You might find meaningful senior activities such as:
Games like chess are also great for brain health. Chess helps work your cognitive skills while also allowing you time to relax and enjoy the company of other residents.
The advantage of group activities is that you can join as many or as few as you want. So if you love socializing, you can fill your calendar with day and evening events.
However, if you like solitary time but still want the benefits of regular interaction with others, you can pick one favorite activity from the schedule while still having quiet times in our community spaces or your private apartment.
Having a familiar routine and seeing friendly faces can go a long way to making you feel at ease. When your brain senses safety, it relaxes and so does your body, so it has a positive effect on your overall well-being.
We make it easy for our residents at TerraBella Lincolnton to craft a unique daily routine that brings happiness, stimulation, and social interaction.
A familiar morning routine in our welcoming restaurant, followed by an exercise class, is a popular way to start the day, with an afternoon joining a workshop that lets you explore a favorite hobby.
Some residents like to enjoy our many on-site amenities, such as our landscaped gardens, craft room, or on-site salon. Others sign up for group excursions to nearby attractions, enjoying a chance to socialize and see more of what Lincolnton has to offer.
Cognitive therapy is a more formal route designed to support mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
With cognitive therapy techniques, you'll get a structured plan outlining goals that can help you improve your social interaction and mental stimulation.
In contrast, social interaction is more informal. It's about making connections part of everyday life in a way that suits your needs and personality.
If you have a loved one who is a memory care resident at TerraBella Lincolnton, you may be worried about isolation, especially if your loved one has days when they feel lost or forgetful.
However, our team is trained to work with memory care residents, shaping their day with social interactions that help them engage with others. Lots of our activities are also therapeutic for those with memory loss, such as arts and crafts, and will help stimulate the brain.
Family involvement is crucial to residents' well-being. When residents join us, we work with families to put together a personalized care plan that meets the needs of that person, including a schedule of social activities.
We can also help set up family meetups and video calls. Communication between family and staff is ongoing, so continued involvement ensures their loved one gets the best care at all times.
Staying socially engaged and keeping your brain active doesn't have to be complicated in retirement. A few scheduled activities with friends and staying in touch with family will help you feel more upbeat and alert.
TerraBella Lincolnton, NC, is the ideal location for seniors looking for an active yet supported retirement. With a busy calendar of daily activities and a peaceful, scenic location on the edge of Lincolnton, you'll get the perfect balance of relaxation and connection. Contact us to book a tour today and discover more.