Residents Leading the Way! The Benefits of Taking Charge!

We all know that exercise is one of the keys to good health, but did you know that being active has an anti-aging effect on our bodies and our brains. The health and wellness benefits of active aging have a big impact on the lives of seniors. 

The Archives of Internal Medicine published a study in 2009 which stated that social activity for seniors is just as important as exercise.  Speed, dexterity and muscle strength requires social interaction to be maintained during the senior years.  The study found that those who were socially inactive experienced physical decline at a rate 1/3 more rapid than those who were socially active – even if they exercised regularly.

By taking active roles in their communities, seniors are using their life skills and knowledge to provide a service to others. When they seize the opportunity to keep giving of themselves, seniors benefit by keeping themselves intellectually sharp, making friends and experiencing self satisfaction and a deep sense of purpose.

 In the process of sharing their passions and expertise, residents are fully engaging in life and inspiring others. It’s a natural give-and-take, ebb-and-flow exchange that fosters joy and self-fulfillment.  This is not something typically seen in a living setting but Pathway Senior Living has developed a lifestyle framework called VIVA! that offers this support and a committed staff for motivation.

Artists, musicians and athletes are among the interesting and talented seniors who call Pathway communities home. Not only do we value the unique gifts that residents possess, but we encourage them to share their passions with others.

 The idea of fostering purpose and influencing happiness is at the heart of Pathway’s VIVA! lifestyle. VIVA! provides the opportunity for residents to not only participate in the community, but to actually shape it, play a leadership role within it and fully contribute to it. Each member of Pathway’s staff is committed to not only caring for our residents but to intentionally supporting their independence and enriching their lives. 

There are many real-life, everyday examples of Pathway Senior Living’s residents taking leadership roles to help form and shape their communities. Oak Hill Supportive Living residents developed a convenience store from the ground up and fully staff and operate the store themselves. A talented resident musician at Victory Centre of Joliet plays the keyboard to entertain at weekly happy hours and special events. There are many resident artists, some former teachers, who lead art classes at various communities. A retired NFL football player hosts “football chats” with fellow residents and provides game-day commentary while cheering for the home team.

 Benefits of Sharing a Wealth of Life Experience 

By discovering new talents and realizing their true potentials, seniors are able to build confidence, establish control in their lives, and achieve their personal goals.