As we grow older, our priorities may shift. Once the focus is no longer on careers or raising children, older adults often turn to creating the quality of life that they desire and deserve after years of responsibilities and commitments.
What is quality of life?
The World Health Organization defines quality of life as how an individual perceives their position in life in relation to their goals, expectations, standards and concerns.
Although the specific features might be different for everyone, quality of independence, physical and mental health, home and personal life, well-being and happiness, and the sense of belonging is considered.
Ways seniors can improve their quality of life
While there are many advantages of growing older, there are also challenges. Having a good quality of life does not mean all difficulties have been eliminated, but there are basic elements that will help improve your enjoyment and appreciation.
- Having personal space and maintaining independence
Most of us need a private home to retreat to at the end of the day where we can care for ourselves, relax and recharge.
Maintaining independence is also a priority for quality of life. Its loss is the number one fear for many older adults.
- Being active in the community
We need others to live a truly enriched life. Being able to participate in activities and be a part of the community provides meaning and fulfillment.
It is through sharing our life stories that we feel connected to others and develop a sense of belonging.
- Keeping physically and mentally fit
Maintaining health, for both our bodies and our minds, provides a strong foundation for all other life experiences.
Focusing on building muscle strength, maintaining balance, minimizing injuries and chronic conditions, as well as keeping everything in a healthy perspective are keys to a good quality of life.
- Making friendships a priority
As we grow older, we may find it more difficult to get together with friends and family, especially if there are mobility issues.
Although meeting new people can also prove more of a challenge, it’s crucial to find ways to stay in touch and interact with others.
- Maintaining a healthy diet
What we eat fuels our bodies and minds and it’s essential to develop a nutritious diet. Eating healthy for most of your meals also allows room for the occasional snack or treat.
Maintaining a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits and lean proteins can provide the nutrients and energy you need.
- Avoiding social isolation
Many seniors are at an increased risk of becoming lonely or socially isolated because of factors that occur more frequently as we grow older, such as living alone, losing friends or family and chronic illnesses.
Guarding against this can lead to lower risks of dementia, heart disease, stroke, anxiety and depression.
How the benefits of independent living support quality of life
Where you live has such a great influence on how you live. It’s no surprise that many retirees look for a place where they can enjoy the features above that contribute to a good quality of life.
Independent living communities have been designed to not only make life easier but also more fulfilling. Consider these benefits and how they could support enriching your life:
- Private residence and an independent and maintenance-free lifestyle
You’ll find private residences, a choice of floor plans and the ability to personalize your home to make it your own.
You won’t sacrifice independence to enjoy this maintenance-free lifestyle. You’ll be in charge but will enjoy the extra free time as you leave the upkeep to someone else.
- Wide range of programs offered
Communities typically provide a selection of programs so there is something of interest for everyone.
Staying active is key to maintaining good health and aging well. Independent living removes the obstacles of planning and scheduling and makes participation as easy as walking out your front door.
- Fitness centers and classes on-site
To age and live well you need to exercise regularly and keep moving. Stretching and improving your balance can go a long way toward helping prevent falls and other injuries.
Most communities also offer classes, games and other stimulating activities to keep your mind sharp as well.
- Opportunities to meet and make new friends
Companionship is essential but as we grow older, the role our friends play becomes even more significant. Unfortunately, connecting with others can also become more of a challenge.
An independent living community provides several opportunities to meet the other residents and begin forming lifelong friendships.
- Delicious and nutritious dining options
Your residence will include a full-sized kitchen but many residents find it a delight to no longer have to plan, shop, prepare, cook or clean up after meals.
When you don’t feel like cooking, it’s nice to know you can still enjoy a healthy but delicious meal.
- Several opportunities to remain socially connected
Older adults can find themselves socially isolated as friends may have moved away, families get busy and it might become more difficult to attend social events or participate in activities as you once did.
Communities provide the residents with different options to socialize and even the transportation to attend special events.
Ingleside’s senior living communities
If you’re considering whether an independent living community could be the perfect support for your desired quality of life, we hope you will visit one of our Ingleside communities. We believe you’ll find it’s even easier to enjoy life when you take advantage of all the benefits we offer, including:
- Maintenance-free lifestyle
- Chef-prepared meals in our elegant dining rooms or casual cafés
- Fully equipped fitness centers
- Heated indoor swimming pools
- Art Studios
- Libraries
- Beautiful walking trails
For information on Ingleside at Rock Creek senior living community located in Washington, DC, please call (202) 846-2651 with questions or to schedule a personalized tour today.
For information on Ingleside’s Westminster at Lake Ridge senior living community located in Lake Ridge, Virginia, please call (703) 420-7105 with questions or to schedule a personalized tour today.
For information on Ingleside at King Farm senior living community located in Rockville, Maryland, please call (240) 414-8557 with questions or to schedule a personalized tour today.