Graceful Aging Really is a State of Mind

They say, “Age is just a number!” or “You’re as young as you feel,” but is this really true? Research suggests that our state of mind directly impacts our mental and physical well-being. If you believe you’ll decline in health as you grow older, you will. Conversely, if you don’t let the common stereotypes of aging hold you back, you’ll continue to feel healthy well into your retirement years. Here’s the science behind this phenomenon and how you can tap into it.

As we age, it’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that our bodies will inevitably deteriorate and our minds will become foggy. Society bombards us with images of frail, elderly individuals who need constant care and assistance. However, there is research to support the notion that our beliefs about aging play a significant role in shaping our actual experience of it.

One particular study has found that seniors with mild cognitive impairment who think more positively were 30% more likely to regain normal cognition than those holding onto negative ideologies! Another study suggests older adults who have a more positive outlook on aging have lower rates of disability and longer life spans compared to those who hold negative stereotypes about aging.

But how can we keep our attitude around aging optimistic? One way is by embracing an independent lifestyle and surrounding ourselves with a community that supports our mind, body, and soul.

Community Living Helps Seniors Age in Place

UMC at Pitman helps seniors age gracefully by providing a range of amenities and services specifically tailored to meet each resident’s wants and needs. Living in this vibrant community allows residents to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle, while receiving the proper support. Let’s take a closer look at how an independent lifestyle community like UMC at Pitman can contribute to graceful aging:

1. Social Connection. One of the key components of aging well is maintaining strong social connections. At UMC at Pitman, residents have ample opportunities to engage with peers and participate in group activities like yoga, meditation, dance, trivia, bingo, bible study, gardening, and more. Building and maintaining relationships with like-minded individuals fosters a sense of belonging while reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
2. Active Lifestyle. Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining good health and mobility as we age. Our senior community offers a range of fitness programs and wellness initiatives designed to keep residents moving and engaged. From group exercise classes to walking trails and a fitness center, seniors can more easily embrace an active lifestyle.
3. Lifelong Learning. Keeping the mind sharp is essential for maintaining a positive attitude about aging. We recognize the importance of lifelong learning and offer educational programs and classes to residents. Engaging in intellectually stimulating activities like painting, playing an instrument, and memory games can enhance cognitive function, strengthen memory, and promote strong mental health.
4. Supportive Environment. Our NJ assisted living community provides a safe and supportive space where residents can age with dignity and peace of mind. With different levels of care available, seniors can access the daily assistance they need while still maintaining independence. This continuum of care ensures that residents can age in place, knowing that their changing needs will be met.

Seniors living independently in Pitman, NJ

Seniors can challenge the negative stereotypes of aging and adopt a positive mindset at Pitman. This shift in attitude, combined with the support and resources provided by our community, can contribute to graceful aging and a higher quality of life.

Pitman also encourages independence by eliminating daily burdens like cooking, cleaning, chores, and home maintenance, making room for things that seniors actually want to do. They can take advantage of long-lost interests they’ve put on hold, like yoga, bible club, gardening, arts and crafts, and so much more.

For more information about our independent lifestyle community with support in Gloucester County, please give us a call and visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/graceful-aging-really-is-a-state-of-mind/