retired friends enjoying time outside

Recognizing the Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Community

As we travel through life, one profound realization is how difficult it would be if we were walking this journey alone. We each need our tribe—families, friends and other connections—to share our experiences.

One of the biggest advantages of a senior living community—whether independent or assisted living—is the sense of belonging the residents feel.

Take a look at the additional benefits that extend to both physical and mental well-being:

  1. Benefits of Senior Living: Social Interaction
    Being part of a community provides opportunities for meaningful conversations, shared experiences and support. Social engagement also stimulates cognitive function and reduces the risk of cognitive decline. When we are valued, we feel a heightened sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that can motivate us to live intentionally and positively impact those around us.
  2. Benefits of Senior Living: Combating Loneliness
    The effect that loneliness can have on both physical and mental health should not be underestimated. Living in a senior community can decrease risk by providing a sense of belonging and emotional support. When we feel connected to others, we are less likely to experience the negative impacts of isolation, such as depression, anxiety and even physical illness.
  3. Benefits of Senior Living: Confidence Building
    Being part of a community can help foster a sense of confidence and self-worth. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who share similar values, interests and experiences creates an environment where we feel understood and accepted. This can empower us to embrace our authentic selves, boosting our self-esteem and encouraging personal growth.
  4. Benefits of Senior Living: Emotional Support
    Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming when faced alone. Having a tribe offers emotional support so we can share our struggles, seek advice and receive encouragement. This emotional safety net is especially valuable during times of stress, grief or personal hardship and helps us navigate difficult situations with greater resilience.
  5. Benefits of Senior Living: Shared Experiences
    Senior living communities provide opportunities to express our shared interests, hobbies and life passions. Engaging in activities together, whether it’s participating in a book club, attending a fitness class or exploring new entertainment venues, creates a sense of camaraderie. These shared experiences strengthen the bonds between residents and provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
  6. Benefits of Senior Living: Accountability and Motivation
    Being part of a tribe can serve as a powerful motivator, encouraging us to pursue our goals and maintain healthy habits. When surrounded by individuals with similar aspirations, we are more likely to hold ourselves accountable and stay committed to our personal growth and well-being.
  7. Benefits of Senior Living: Intergenerational Connections
    In a community setting, residents often find opportunities to transcend age barriers and strengthen intergenerational connections. Sharing these experiences and perspectives can enrich all involved, promoting understanding, sharing of wisdom and a sense of continuity across generations.
  8. Benefits of Senior Living: Reduced Risk of Disease
    Having a strong support system can play a large role in reducing the risk of significant health problems for older adults. Research has shown a lower risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer and stroke. Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to higher rates of chronic illnesses.
  9. Benefits of Senior Living: Increased Longevity
    Individuals who are active in their community and have forged a strong social network tend to live longer than those who are socially isolated. One study suggests that lacking social connections is as detrimental to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
  10. Benefits of Senior Living: Better Health Habits
    Living in community can encourage healthier behaviors, such as exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet. But it doesn’t stop there. Having a community can also help individuals avoid harmful habits like excessive drinking or smoking. Group support and accountability can motivate individuals to adopt and maintain positive lifestyle changes.

The Importance of Quality Relationships in the Community

Living in a vital and active senior living community can provide many benefits to improve both physical and emotional health. But it’s also important to note that the quality of relationships within an individual’s tribe is crucial.

While each resident will have different preferences and needs, residents with similar interests and passions always seem to find each other. When you choose a community that provides a wide variety of amenities and activities, you’ll most likely discover the support extends beyond the individual to the group.

Communities are also trained to help new residents meet their neighbors and discover what type of activities they may enjoy. Friendships naturally develop, and it is often noted that making friends is much easier in a community than it might have been while living at home.

Independent Living at Presbyterian Village North

At our independent living and assisted living communities, we recognize the impact that having a tribe can mean to the quality of our residents’ overall well-being. We strive to create an environment that promotes connections, encourages social engagement and nurtures a sense of belonging.

We see firsthand how the network of connections empowers our residents to live their best lives—surrounded by a community that celebrates their individuality while encouraging a collective sense of purpose and fulfillment.

At Presbyterian Village North, we offer spacious studio, one- and two-bedroom residences that can be personalized to create a home where our residents will live their highest quality of life.

Imagine a well-stocked library, private dining room available for family celebrations and endless opportunities to make new friends and memories — all with the reassurance of living in a gated community with around-the-clock security.

We also provide the following services:

  • Licensed nursing staff onsite 24/7
  • Medication management administered by certified medication aides
  • Assistance with activities of daily living
  • Chef-prepared cuisine—meals per day with varied, all-day dining options
  • Dedicated Assisted Living Concierge
  • Special activities and social programs
  • Access to a full continuum of care
  • Expanded gym and aquatic center
  • Music and art programming
  • Physical, occupational and speech therapy
  • Convenient access to mobile healthcare services onsite including dental, podiatry, optometry, audiology, mobile x-ray and lab, and dietician
  • Full onsite pharmacy
  • And so much more!

Presbyterian Village North supports our residents to remain as independent as possible while living an enriched life. Please call 214-355-9015 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personal visit to our community.