The Arbor Company Senior Living Blog

Connecting with others is important at all ages. However, research has shown us that socialization with peers is even more important as we age. Feelings of perceived loneliness have been linked to rapid cognitive decline, numerous health problems, and even premature death. Fortunately, older adults don’t have to host huge parties in order to reap the benefits of socialization. Instead, cultivating relationships with small groups of family members or peers can boost overall emotional and physical health.

The COVID-19 global pandemic has drastically altered life for all of us, including vulnerable populations. Older adults, including those with underlying health conditions, are likely spending more time at home in recent weeks. Though staying at home can feel cozy and comfortable initially, it often doesn’t take too long for even the biggest homebody to feel stir-crazy.

Retirement doesn’t mean sitting in your rocking chair, nor that the most exciting thing in your life has to be your weekly bingo game. Now is a great time to cultivate a new hobby, or revive an old one. Gardening offers a dynamic option that’s full of surprises, challenges, and year-round change, making it the perfect choice for seniors of all skill levels. Whether you grow a small row of seeds, tend to indoor orchids and succulents, or commit to a small farm in your backyard, virtually everyone can enjoy gardening. Even if you think you have a brown thumb, here are some reasons to give green-thumb life a try. 

Today, older adults are often just as tech-savvy as their younger peers. This ability to download apps and interact successfully with technology, when paired with technological advancements that directly benefit older adults, means that seniors can find apps or online programs for a variety of needs. From medication administration assistance to fall prevention technology to cognitive exercise, technology has stepped into the spotlight for older adults.

Technology offers a variety of options for today’s older adult, including plenty of ways to exercise the brain. Check out just a few of our favorite apps that will give your brain a workout.