July 12, 2024
Aging is a natural and inevitable part of life that brings unique challenges. As people grow older, they experience increased physical and emotional major life changes—retirement, loss of loved ones, health challenges, and decreased independence. These can be stressful and difficult, but knowing how to handle and grow with these changes is often the key to healthy aging.
At The Parkway Senior Living, we understand the key ingredient to coping with the challenges of aging is the ability to continue to find meaning and joy in life. The activities you enjoy may change over time and may not be suitable as you age. Finding new hobbies, picking up long-neglected ones, or learning new skills can be an exciting, new adventure.
Some older adults find comfort in connecting with their community and loved ones. Community work can be a great way to utilize and pass on your skills. Attending local events or volunteering for a great cause are other ways to feel connected.
One of the most important coping mechanisms is to acknowledge and express your feelings. Many aging adults have a hard time showing emotions, believing it as inappropriate and weak; however, at The Parkway, we understand that burying your feelings can lead to anger, resentment, and depression. We encourage our residents to find healthy ways to process their feelings by talking with a close friend or writing in a journal.
A new experience residents enjoy in our community is Wii bowling. There’s a learning curve, but they don’t want to stop once they get the hang of it. Not only does this get them moving, but it also adds a bit of friendly competition. Another event they look forward to is our monthly visit to a nearby preschool. Story Corner book readings and crafts with young children help them cope with the loneliness that sometimes comes with aging.
At The Parkway, we foster a strong sense of community. To encourage reluctant residents, we use the buddy system, pairing them with another resident who has similar interests. We usually start with attending meals together and gradually move up to community events. Here at the Parkway, we have a group of residents who gather after dinner to play dominoes. They are always up for a game and welcoming to all.
We utilize “Stop and Watch,” a tool that allows any employee to communicate changes from a resident’s baseline to the nurse. Another great tool is our monthly wellness visits, which help us review and track any changes in residents’ conditions.
Finding ways to cope with the difficulties of aging allows one to always see the silver lining. When facing major challenges, try to look at them as opportunities for personal growth. It’s not just about adding years to your life; it’s about adding life to your years.
The Parkway Senior Living in Blue Springs, MO offers senior villas, independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near St. Mary’s Medical Center and St. Luke’s Eastwith convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Adams Point Golf Course, KC Royals Stadum, KC Chiefs Stadium, Sporting KC, KC Comets, KC Mavericks, Adams Dairy Landing, and Blue Springs Parks, Trails, and Lakes .