Retirement Living = Active Living

Retirement living can mean active living: 5 senior-friendly activities that help maintain healthy minds and bodies.

Myths About Retirement

Some people think that retirement living is dull, lonely and restrictive. Some common misconceptions people have about moving into a retirement community are that they’ll have no friends, that nursing homes are akin to being locked up in solitary confinement, and they will have nothing to do.

That just isn’t the case! Many retirement residences, assisted living centres, long term care and nursing homes offer a variety of exciting lifestyle options. Some seniors, upon realizing how much fun they can have in a retirement residence wonder why they didn’t move in years ago! And many people discover that ongoing access to care and activities improves their health. Moving in before medical needs give you little choice can help keep you healthier, longer.

Before selecting a retirement or nursing home, be sure to consult with staff and residents about what activities and programs are offered. Here are some great activities that help seniors maintain an active retirement and healthy minds and bodies, all centered on a holistic, total wellness approach for seniors.

Recreation

Whether it’s workshops, art classes or other events, find out what kind of recreation is offered at your retirement residence. What few people consider at first, is that retirement living offers one the time to focus on hobbies and stay entertained in a way they couldn’t do while tending to all their daily concerns. Bottom line: seniors need to consider all the opportunities for planned activities offered at a given residence and determine if the flavour of those events appeals to them.

Yoga & Aerobics

The age old eastern practice of yoga has recently become popular in western societies, with clinical trials pointing to strong evidence that yoga can be used to manage weight, build muscle, alleviate chronic back pain, offset dementia and depression and even improve quality of life for people suffering with cancer. The best part is, anybody can do it; no matter what your fitness or mobility level. But be warned, it’s addictive!

Further, just a little cardiovascular activity daily can go a long way in keeping the doctor away. Aerobic exercise strengths your heart and improves your breathing. In fact, studies show the closest thing to a fountain of youth is regular exercise. It also goes a long way to alleviate stress. Ask prospective retirement homes what kind of fitness programs.

Take a look at our short brochure to get a sense of what activities and recreation are available in some retirement residences or nursing homes. Click here to download Revera’s Rev It Up brochure. Rev It Up is a wellness program all about holistic care of body & mind.

Community Outings

For those who have the misconception that retirement living is like being locked up… Many residences plan outings throughout the year; to museums, shopping, casinos, dinner and shows to name a few. Tip: pick up a copy of your prospective residence’s activities calendar for a month and see if it suits you. Also, find out if the residence is open to taking suggestions for activities from its residents.

Movie Nights & Entertainment

Whether it’s a Clark Gable classic from the golden age of Hollywood or a big-budget modern heist flick with a star-studded cast, everybody can enjoy a night at the movies. Many retirement communities feature screening rooms where guests can pick and view their favourite films and watch them with friends and family. And after the credits roll, pop into the dining room and discuss the film over a cup of tea.

Also, many Revera homes offer entertainment, including visiting musicians, speakers and performers. It’s a great way to keep engaged and have fun.

Cooking & Eating

Let’s not forget the food. If you love to cook… or just love to eat, find out what kind of options your residence offers for cooking and hosting private dinner parties and find out what kind of special occasion dining events they offer throughout the calendar year. Food choices vary and healthy options should always be available.