Does Living in a Community Extend Life?

Most people would agree their goal is to lead a long and happy life surrounded by those they care about. But how do we best accomplish that goal? How do our relationships play a role in our happiness? Do our daily decisions affect longevity? Does living better equate to living longer? How can older adults take aging into their own hands?

Many people are quick to assume genetics play a major role in aging; however, research shows other factors have a far greater impact on living longer.

That means the key to longevity lies in lifestyle, specifically in the choices we make day to day. Deciding to move to a senior living community can be a major life decision that sets the stage for all the seemingly small daily choices we make that define our lifestyle.

According to Harvard’s longest study of adult life, fulfilling relationships can actually help extend life. After studying over 1,500 individuals throughout their lives, researchers concluded our relationships and the level of fulfillment those relationships bring can have a powerful impact on our physical health and longevity. This research proves that embracing community may actually help us live longer and happier.

Embracing community and connection

So if the secret to living a long, happy and healthy life lies in relationships, why not choose to live in a retirement community, where relationships are so much easier to find? People crave happiness, purpose and belonging. We seek out deep, fortifying relationships that make us feel loved and supported. It’s no surprise people find these feelings when living in a community as opposed to living alone or with limited social interaction. Interacting with like-minded people in the same stage of life offers a different kind of connection than engaging with adult children or grandchildren. There’s something about forging friendships with others who understand how you’re feeling, what you’re going through, what your life has been like and how it’s grown over the years.

If you ask anyone currently living at a retirement community, they’ll explain that their days are full of storytelling. Good times, compelling stories and fond memories are recalled and shared among friends. And most importantly, meaningful new memories are formed each and every day. This is one of the primary reasons why peers can prolong life.

Maintaining social connections is a crucial element of successful aging – people who are more socially connected are happier, physically healthier and live longer. Sense of self is important, and solitude can be peaceful and refreshing in doses. However, unwelcomed isolation can trigger loneliness, which can in turn breed unhappiness. These emotions can take a toll on our health and well-being. Research has shown that those who are more isolated live shorter lives. Living in community resolves this issue by combating social isolation, boredom and loneliness. Especially for single seniors, a senior living community may be just the thing to boost happiness levels and, in turn, general wellness.

Opportunity for activity

When you live in a senior living community, a full calendar of activities brings meaning and purpose to each day. One afternoon you might play a game of billiards with close friends. The next you might attend a showing of your favorite movies at the on-site theater. The following day you may simply stay in with a book, comforted by the quaintness of your cozy studio apartment. No matter your preference, the opportunities are always there to venture out of your comfort zone and try something new.

Many health and wellness benefits come with living in a retirement community. Communities provide ample opportunity for exercise. Residents enjoy walks around the grounds or engage in group classes such as tai chi, pilates or chair yoga. Many communities feature tennis courts to keep older adults active and continuing the sport they’ve enjoyed for years. Some senior living communities, such as The Ridge Pinehurst coming to Denver, also feature courts to accommodate pickleball – one of America’s fastest-growing sports.

Exercising in groups can give your workout a whole new sense of purpose, and group activities bring about a strong energy and allow for a shared experience. In fact, a study by the New England Journal of Medicine in 2010 showed that enjoying certain activities with others can help preserve and protect cognitive functioning.

The advantages of holistic wellness

The benefits of living in a community truly span all dimensions of wellness, from social and intellectual to physical, nutritional and even spiritual wellness. Well-balanced meals prepared by professional culinary staff make each meal a healthy option. On-staff nurses and medical staff are always available and eager to care for whatever comes next. Many senior living communities, especially those in Salt Lake City, provide a supportive and like-minded community to practice and worship alongside faithful friends. These communities also provide ”giving-back” outlets such as volunteer opportunities and community outreach.

Finding that sense of community

When looking for your ideal senior living community, consider a few more elements that will enhance your overall well-being.

Things to look for:

• Family-friendly community that accommodates and encourages visits from friends and family
• Services and amenities that enhance your life
• Transportation offerings
• Pet-friendly community

All this and more can be found at The Ridge senior living communities, where vitality is prolonged and time is occupied by meaningful activities and purposeful conversation. From kind neighbors to compassionate staff, genuine interactions are frequent, and friendship is quite easy to find. Best of all, aging is viewed as an opportunity to continue living your best life.