theconnectionsnj.com SENIOR LIVING PAGE 34 There is a clubhouse where we live. It is the center of our social life, and I find myself drawn there several times a week. The beauty of it is that in addition to food and beverage, there are other people, also enjoying the socialization. Whether it is Trivia Night, Bingo, movies, a cover band or other entertainment, cards or Mah Jongg, there is always something to do, always someone to meet, and a means of staying involved with the outside world. Engaging with people of different ages is refreshing, and there are days when being 70-something makes me older than others and days when I am the younger one at the table. Additionally, I love having a reason to get dressed and put on my best smile! In essence, Independent or Assisted Living facilities are similar. There are others with whom to have a conversation, food and beverage, games and movies, connections that bring people together, and shared experiences. Although the residents are usually senior in age, some are younger in spirit and that can radiate to other residents. The ability to discuss shared memories is very compelling. In contrast, living in one’s room or apartment with no company but the television and eating meals in solitude, the hours slowly ticking by can create a sense of loneliness that is untenable and deleterious for the health of seniors. Many enter these facilities thin and weakened, having lost their appetite not only for food, but for life. Remarkably, engaging with others at mealtime or snacking with a group can rapidly return the resident to their full vitality. Many facilities make meals and snacks the center of the day, posting menus and even having the meals on display. At some facilities, the residents have positions of importance, such as running the Country Store or helping with crafts. Having the ability to feel strong, capable, and yes, even younger, is wonderful. Also, many want to share their past with new friends and can do so by discussing their careers, family, pets or friends. The Baby Boomers are aging and our numbers are enormous. We always envisioned ourselves as forever young. Although that was hubris and quite foolish-we are the generation that has created ways of maintaining our youth longer than any before us. By running, working out, lifting weights, and living socially, we are working to make our lives as long and as meaningful as possible. I see no evidence that we will ever change! SENIOR CORNER Socializing May Be the Key to Longevity By Ellyn Mantell Remarkably, engaging with others at mealtime or snacking with a group can rapidly return the resident to their full vitality. 908-580-3840 fellowshipvillage.org Extraordinary FROM ORDINARY TO Envision-inspired adult living in Basking Ridge, NJ!
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