At every stage of life, forging meaningful friendships can be tough, and especially so during times of transition. It is common to adopt fears of loneliness and hesitations to form new friendships. However, making friends when moving to an assisted living community can also be deeply rewarding and important for overall well-being.
According to a recent CDC report on healthy aging, loneliness and social isolation are serious health risks that affect a significant number of older adults in the United States. While it is hard to accurately measure the effects of loneliness and social isolation, this report states that the health risks due to a lack of strong relationships can include dementia, heart disease, and stroke. The CDC suggests that, as people are social by nature, high-quality social relationships can help them live longer, healthier lives.
At Dayspring Villa, it is top priority to promote an inclusive culture where each person’s passions and growth are fully engaged with purpose, honoring them wherever they are in the rhythm of their life. Doing so encourages autonomy and choice, which opens the door for deeper connections based on common interests.
Community begins with connection, and there are a variety of ways to make meaningful friendships in assisted living communities.
Get to Know the Activities Calendar
Many assisted living communities have no shortage of activities and programs available for residents to take part in, which may be developed with or led by residents. The variety of engaging activities help spark and strengthen relationships among residents who are able to connect through shared hobbies, interests and beliefs. Whether you enjoy fitness classes with a larger group, card games with a few close friends, creative projects, bible study, or are interested in pursuing a new hobby, the community calendar will likely have something for you!
Make Meals a Social Event
For many, a shared meal can be an opportune time for stimulating conversation and connection. Asking a neighbor to share a meal with you, sitting with new groups in the dining areas, or even inviting a trusted family member or friend to accompany you to a meal are ways to meet new people in assisted living communities.
Many assisted living communities are also open to new ideas that will elevate and customize the dining experience. Being open to sharing feedback on the menu, offering to share a personal recipe, or even suggesting an experience that would get community members involved in cooking provides meaningful moments that promote friendship.
Embrace the Location
Another way to make friendships is to explore what your surrounding neighborhood has to offer. Depending on the location, there could be a variety of community activities and ways to connect with new cultures by exploring shops, museums, community organizations, parks, and more.
Many assisted living communities, including Dayspring Villa, coordinate community outings with transportation provided as a way to provide a variety of interactive ways to forge new friendships.
Embracing Eden Principles at Dayspring Villa
Developing meaningful relationships is no small feat. Similar to the task in other phases of life, making friends in a new assisted living community may take some time and it is likely that many of your neighbors are experiencing the same feelings. Collective feelings are what has created and sustained the collaborative and holistic approach to assisted living at Dayspring Villa, all shaped by the Eden Alternative and the Rhythms Life Enrichment program.
The principles of the Eden Alternative have been adopted by hundreds of homes in the US, Canada, and Australia with the core belief being that aging should be a period of growth rather than decline. Following this same belief, Dayspring Villa uses the guiding philosophy of “Being Well Known,” meaning that the culture is shaped by each person’s unique life story, personal experiences, and gifts that are honored by the community. Ultimately, the act of friendship could be said to follow that same philosophy too, spurred from unique perspectives and understanding.
Dayspring Villa strongly believes in the value of friendship. Along with the robust activities calendar, the prime Denver location full of both urban and suburban amenities and the addition of partner programs such as Duet Dining, Dayspring Villa is committed to putting the community members and their ability to form friendships as a top priority.
When planning a visit or a move to a senior living community, ask about the programs and resident groups available. Have a unique passion or hobby that isn’t already on the calendar? Ask a neighbor or a team member how you can start a new class or plan an excursion. You may be surprised to see how many of your neighbors share the same interests.
