The Link Between Senior Communities & Better Mental Health

24 February 2023

At the Generus Living Group, we believe that good mental health translates to greater enjoyment of life. As we age, we move into a more relaxed phase of life; we get to enjoy retirement and pursue interests that may have been neglected due to a lack of time. This should be an excellent stage of life, with many small pleasures and special moments providing satisfaction and contentment.

Of course, each phase of life has its ups and downs, and senior mental health is something that is widely discussed these days - which is positive. When you feel able to be open about the struggles you may be facing, you can access the support and advice you need to help you to meet these bumps in the road with your best foot forward.

In terms of senior communities and mental health, there is a growing awareness that good retirement communities can help their residents maintain good mental health. We have many ways to help at our various locations if you feel some assistance could be beneficial.

Common Mental Health Concerns Among Seniors

Many seniors share common mental health concerns, and understanding this commonality is a significant first step towards addressing difficulties you may be experiencing as you shift towards a more relaxed lifestyle.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) details mobility reduction, pain (chronic or long-term), bereavement, and general health problems as likely causes of psychological distress. WHO also flags isolation and loneliness as common factors in a loss of enjoyment of life for those of us heading into retirement.

A Feeling Of Belonging

Feeling like you belong to a community is essential to maintaining good mental health. There are so many wonderful things about finishing up working life including more free time and less pressure. However, you may need to make a little effort to draw up a healthy structure to your day. It’s also essential to work a little harder to ensure you are continuing to make meaningful connections with people who are on the same page as you.

Senior communities have been shown to address many of these concerns around mental health, and if you choose the right retirement community, you may find this new phase of life is your best yet.

Along with opportunities to connect with like-minded people and engage in fun social activities, living in a retirement community where you can join a club, volunteer, or learn a new skill has been shown to reduce the risk of developing significant health conditions by around 22 per cent!

Sense Of Safety

Another significant benefit discovered by seniors who move to retirement communities is an increased feeling of security. For instance, at many of our locations, residents can use a swimming pool, view a movie at a boutique cinema, or enjoy the ambience of the lounge bar - all without needing to leave the Village.

All of these high-end services are available in a secure environment where you can sleep well at night, knowing that everything is being taken care of. Generus Living Group residents enjoy a premium lifestyle with the added bonus of access to clinical staff on-site if the need may arise. This flexibility ensures elevated peace of mind and a true sense of safety.

Improved Mental Health

Generus Living Group senior communities, provide opportunities to engage with services and activities which are designed to ease anxiety and grow connections. There are also services to provide help to those with mental health concerns and mood disorders who need support.

Whether you need clinical assistance or just need someone to talk to, our staff are trained to see the signs and assist you towards a professional solution that works for you. Every resident in our retirement communities is treated with respect and dignity, and we take a discreet, personalised approach to health concerns, including mental health.

Improve Cognitive Impairment

Staying active as we age is imperative, and some types of movement are particularly beneficial for seniors who need to improve cognitive issues. Dancing, singing, and walking all help to keep serotonin levels up, and board games, arts and craftsare good ways to keep the mind agile!

Improving cognitive impairment may start with moving the body and working towards a feeling of engagement in the moment. At all Generus Living Group senior communities, you can be sure that the facilities and the team are designed to help you focus on your well-being, as well as adding creativity and happiness to your life.