Sunshine and Self-Care: Making the Most of Summer in Senior Living

Jul 2, Alissa Sauer

Sweet, sweet summertime! As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, summer presents a unique opportunity for older adults to prioritize their health and wellness. With a little extra care and attention, older adults can fully embrace the fun in the sun while safeguarding their well-being.

See how residents at The Ackerly at Reed’s Crossing are taking advantage of the summer months through PrimeFit Wellness, our signature program that goes beyond the basics to bring wellness to the forefront of a senior lifestyle. Explore some essential tips and strategies for seniors to stay healthy, active, and vibrant throughout the summer months.

Discover Year-Round Health through PrimeFit Wellness

There’s no question that senior living is a convenient place to live year-round, especially in the summer months. For many seniors, summer can bring feelings of nostalgia, and many may feel like the care they need keeps them from living the life they want. During the summer, senior living offers older adults opportunities for social engagement, access to amenities, and relief from home maintenance tasks. Additionally, senior living communities prioritize safety, provide access to care services, and ensure residents enjoy the season surrounded by friends and personalized care. 

As a Leisure Care community, The Ackerly at Reed’s Crossing offers PrimeFit Wellness, an exclusive signature program that expands wellness beyond the gym walls and into every aspect of life. With hospitality-based independent living and life-enhancing assisted living and memory care services, residents have access to wellness that meets them where they are. Through PrimeFit Wellness, we practice well-being and champion proactive wellness by meeting the social, physical, mental, emotional, and communal health of residents.

So, what does that look like in the summer?

We’re glad you asked!

Summer Social Wellness in Senior Living

Social wellness plays a key role in maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy good weather with great friends, but many older adults face challenges when getting groups together for organized activities. In senior living, social events are planned and executed by a well-trained staff, taking all the work out of a summer day, but leaving all of the fun!

We create opportunities for social interaction, such as themed gatherings, to significantly impact residents’ sense of belonging.

Summer-themed events may include:

• Outdoor movie nights under the stars with refreshing summer drinks
• Gardening clubs
• Beach-themed crafts
• Outdoor exercise classes in the sunshine
• BBQ cookouts
• Luau-themed dinners
• Birdwatching tours

By prioritizing social wellness in summer, we create environments where residents can build meaningful connections, share stories, and make the most of the season through a supportive and vibrant community.

Summer Physical Wellness in Senior Living

Summer Mental Wellness in Senior Living

Longer days and warmer weather provide an excellent opportunity to prioritize mental wellness and cultivate a supportive environment for residents. To combat seasonal blues and promote social connection, we organize various activities to stimulate cognitive function and enhance overall well-being.

These may include:

• Outdoor brain games and trivia sessions
• Nature walks
• Summer book clubs
• Themed events and celebrations centered around summer holidays
• Wellness workshops focusing on mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and stress management
• Visits from mental health professionals offering support and guidance
• Gardening clubs and outdoor art classes to encourage creativity and self-expression

By nurturing mental wellness during the summer, we help residents maintain cognitive vitality, emotional balance, and a sense of connection with nature and their community. This holistic approach to overall well-being ensures that seniors can fully enjoy the benefits of the summer season while prioritizing their mental health.

Summer Emotional Wellness in Senior Living

During the summer, emotional wellness remains a priority in senior living communities, as the season brings unique challenges and opportunities for residents’ happiness and well-being. With longer days and warmer weather, seniors may experience a range of emotions, from joy and excitement to feelings of nostalgia and longing. Creating an emotionally supportive environment is essential for ensuring residents’ happiness and fulfillment during this vibrant season.

To promote emotional wellness in the summer, we organize various events and activities that bring connection, celebration, and self-expression to life.

These may include:

• Summer-themed parties and BBQs that bring residents together for fun and relaxation in the sun
• Seasonal celebrations and holiday gatherings that create opportunities for residents to connect with friends, family, and their community
• Family reunions and video calls to allow residents to stay connected with loved ones near and far
• Peer support groups and discussion circles where residents can share experiences, offer encouragement, and provide emotional support to one another
• Art classes and creative workshops that provide opportunities for self-expression, reflection, and personal growth
• Summer book clubs and reading circles that promote intellectual stimulation, social engagement, and lively discussions

By prioritizing emotional wellness during the summer, senior living communities create environments that uplift spirits, foster connection, and ensure residents feel supported on their emotional journey. These activities enhance residents’ overall well-being and contribute to a sense of belonging, purpose, and joy throughout the summer.

Communal Wellness in Senior Living

During the summer, communal wellness remains a focal point in senior living communities, crucial for fostering a vibrant and supportive environment. While the warmer months bring sunshine and opportunities for outdoor activities, they also emphasize the importance of strong community bonds in combating feelings of isolation and loneliness.

To promote communal wellness during the summer season, we organize a variety of group activities and events designed to bring residents together and foster connection.

These may include:

• Summer-themed social events and outdoor gatherings that provide opportunities for residents to socialize and enjoy the sunshine together
• Communal dining experiences featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, creating a sense of togetherness and shared enjoyment of delicious meals
• Collaborative projects, such as creating decorations for the common areas or participating in community gardening initiatives, encourage teamwork and creativity among residents
• Group fitness classes and wellness programs tailored to the needs and interests of seniors, promoting physical health and social interaction
• Open communication channels through technology platforms like the MyLeisureCare app, allowing residents to stay connected, informed, and engaged with community news and events
• Resident-led committees and interest groups that empower residents to take an active role in shaping their community and organizing activities based on their preferences and interests
• Community service initiatives such as food drives for local food pantries, providing opportunities for residents to give back to their community and make a positive impact together
• Transportation services to local events, attractions, and outings, enabling residents to explore their surroundings and participate in enriching experiences as a group

By placing a premium on communal wellness during the summer, senior living communities cultivate an atmosphere where residents feel connected, supported, and part of a warm and engaging collective. These activities promote social interaction and friendship and contribute to a sense of belonging, purpose, and joy throughout the summer.

Join the Summer Fun!

Summer is naturally fun for many. However, it can be challenging for seniors to make the most of the season while getting the care they need. The Ackerly at Reed’s Crossing provides independent living, assisted living, and memory care that meets residents where they are. Through our PrimeFit Wellness program, we champion proactive well-being, addressing the social, physical, mental, emotional, and communal aspects of our residents’ health. Our residents know we have their back, so they can put their best foot forward this season and all year round.

Join us on our mission to bring year-round wellness to older adults! Contact The Ackerly at Reed’s Crossing and schedule your tour today. Wellness is waiting!