Social Activities that Build Community in Assisted Living
Staying socially engaged keeps the body and mind healthy, and activities designed to foster community in an Assisted Living setting encourage friendships among residents. Getting involved isn't only about having fun with friends, though. A strong program of social activities improves residents' quality of life while supporting their mental and emotional well-being. At The Glen at Aberdeen Heights in Kirkwood, Missouri, our assisted living residents experience all types of activities - everything from fitness classes to cultural performances, making it easy for residents to find options that suit their interests and help them stay connected.
Group Fitness and Wellness Classes
Working out with friends can boost your motivation and make staying fit fun. Start the day with a friendly, upbeat group fitness class to give you increased energy and focus throughout the day, or join a water volleyball team to enjoy a bit of friendly competition.
If you're trying to stay healthy and connected on a daily basis, group programs such as chair yoga, stretching classes and balance training let you engage in shared routines without any pressure to perform at a certain level. At Aberdeen Heights, we offer modified programs to suit any mobility level or fitness background, and our friendly instructors can help you get started with an activity you've always wanted to try.
Creative Arts and Hobby Groups
If you're the creative type, joining a painting class, knitting circle or group craft session helps you connect with other residents over shared interests. Resident-led clubs let you follow your passions and meet new friends while focusing on the specific activities you prefer. Whether you're interested in woodworking, poetry or gardening, there are opportunities to engage with like-minded residents.
Seasonal holidays and local events are even more special when you get involved in the festivities. Aberdeen Heights organizes themed activities throughout the year to keep you connected with the wider community and help you create new seasonal memories with friends.
Shared Meals and Dining Experiences
Sharing meals in a communal dining setting builds relationships and fosters a sense of community. Spontaneous conversations over breakfast get you excited about the day, and shared dinners let you reconnect with close friends. Birthday meals, guest chef nights and themed dinner experiences make meals extra special.
Aberdeen Heights dining services focus on resident preferences and a shared mealtime experience. Our chefs can accommodate a variety of dietary needs. The food and beverage director and chef also participate in monthly meetings with residents to get feedback on meals and take suggestions for future menu changes.
Game Nights and Friendly Competitions
A little lighthearted competition can add excitement to your day, and engaging in card games, bingo nights or trivia sessions gives you low-pressure ways to challenge fellow residents and show off your skills. Social games not only provide a fun break from the everyday routine, they also help improve and maintain memory, attention span and critical thinking. If you're the competitive type, seasonal competitions, ongoing leagues and tournaments add excitement while building relationships with teammates who are all committed to the same goal.
Music, Entertainment and Spiritual Gatherings
Live performances offer a unique cultural experience, provide entertainment and give you opportunities for socialization. Performances by guest musicians, choirs and local school groups may be on the event calendar, while sing-alongs and music therapy sessions provide regular access to culture and fun. Bible study groups and non-denominational worship services help you build a shared sense of a spiritual community at Aberdeen Heights. You can also enjoy regular movie screenings or participate in an off-site day trip to explore your personal interests.
Community Outings and Intergenerational Activities
If you're interested in staying connected to the wider Kirkwood community, organized outings let you visit local parks, museums, restaurants and performance venues. Whether there's a concert you want to attend or a new local eatery you want to try, there are opportunities to engage with community activities.
Volunteering is another way to stay busy and build community as an Assisted Living resident. Look for ways to participate in charity drives or community gardening efforts. Partnerships with local schools and churches sometimes provide opportunities to give back to the community as well.
While your fellow residents provide everyday friendship and support, family and intergenerational connections are important, too. Family-focused events encourage relatives to engage and maintain strong ties with residents, while youth group and school visits connect residents with younger generations.
At Aberdeen Heights, thoughtfully planned Assisted Living activities keep residents connected and engaged with each other and the wider community. Residents enjoy a sense of belonging and the comfort of shared connections, making Aberdeen Heights truly feel like home.
Contact us today at 314-909-6000 to learn more about our social activities and how Aberdeen Heights fosters a sense of community among residents.