According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthy aging isn’t merely the absence of disease or disability but requires physical and mental health and ongoing social engagement. While most of us want to be as healthy as possible for as long as possible, when you live on your own, maintaining your independence can require a lot of research and coordination.
By moving to a senior living community like Edgewood Summit, you’ll conveniently find a community of committed neighbors who share your enthusiasm for living life to the fullest right outside your door.
Aging Isn’t Just About Genetics
The Danish Twin Study found that only about 20% of your longevity is determined by your genes. That suggests that a significant part of how you age is determined by lifestyle factors and behaviors like how you eat, exercise, think and interact with others. Ultimately, you’re able to influence your health through the kind of lifestyle you lead. Here are some keys for maintaining your independence as you age:
- Cognitive: Cognitive health is one of the most crucial aspects to living a healthy lifestyle. Many professionals have found that keeping your mind challenged with puzzles, arithmetic, reading or learning a new skill can stimulate your mind and is beneficial in helping prevent memory loss.
- Social: Staying engaged with those around you — from family members to friends to neighbors — provides endless opportunities to seek out intellectual engagement and maintain a social network. Social isolation or loneliness can negatively impact your overall health.
- Creative: Studies show that allowing yourself to tap into your creative side provides a lot of amazing cognitive benefits.
- Physical: Staying active is a great way to promote a better lifestyle but that doesn’t mean you need to start going to the gym. Just find a fitness activity, like going for a walk or playing pickleball, that is fun and engaging.
- Keep calm: Stress can have a negative impact on your health. Taking time out of your day to reflect or meditate allows for a healthier mind and body. Going on a walk, taking a yoga class, or enjoying some quiet time is a good place to start.
- Volunteer. Helping others can make you feel better about yourself and contributes to your well-being. It’s also a great way to stay active and social. Often, older adults have unique skills and insights that can benefit others.
- See your doctor. If you and your partner are already in good health, making sure you have age-appropriate health screenings and vaccines will help you stay that way.
- Take your medicine. Taking medications as prescribed is important. If you’re having difficulty with any of your medications, talk with your doctor. There may be a better medication or treatment plan available.
- Get help. Maintaining your independence can often mean accepting some help, whether it’s hiring someone to do your household chores or a full-time caregiver. It’s important to recognize that you have options that will keep you safe AND enjoying life.
Enjoy Life Your Way at Edgewood Summit
As a Life Plan Community, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing they have access to higher levels of on-site care, if ever needed. Of course, that also means providing you with ways to maintain your independence, including:
- Staying connected: We have a full calendar of social activities and group outings including on campus shows and concerts, an arts studio and card room, along with a variety of interest groups and clubs. We also offer energizing volunteer opportunities to help you build and maintain social connections.
- Keeping active: Whether you like taking a class at the fitness center, walking your dog on our 37-acre campus, or something in between there are so many ways to stay active.
- Enjoying delicious and nutritious meals: Our culinary team uses fresh seasonal ingredients, including local farm-to-table options when available. We can accommodate special dietary needs, including vegetarian, heart-healthy and sodium-free.
- Lifelong learning: Through our classes, lectures and discussion groups you’ll have a chance to explore new skills and interests. They’ll also help you keep your mind active by creating more ways to inspire curiosity.
- Promoting independence: We offer a maintenance-free lifestyle, and our community is designed with a variety of safety features including grab bars, handrails, brighter lights and an emergency alert system.
Our Sole Focus is Maintaining Your Independence
Still have questions about living at Edgewood Summit? Contact us here or call us at 304-346-2323. You’ll either talk to Cherie, who has been at Edgewood Summit for over 15 years, or Holley, who loves talking to future residents. They can show you how your life fits in our community.
