Jan 20, 2023

The most popular amenities in senior living communities

Nat Miller

One of the amazing new trends in senior housing over the past few decades has been the rise in senior living communities that offer resort-style amenities for their residents to enjoy. Nowadays, senior living communities offer a wide variety of resort-style amenities that are meant to help residents maintain an active and fulfilling retirement lifestyle. From more common amenities such as a swimming pool, gym, or dining hall to unique features such as spas or game rooms, we’re breaking down some of our favorite amenities in senior living communities. Check out some of the most popular amenities found at senior living communities around the country below. 

Swimming pools: Many senior living communities have indoor or outdoor swimming pools. These pools provide residents with an opportunity to engage in aquatic exercise, which is a low-impact form of exercise that is easy on the joints. Swimming is also a great way to improve cardiovascular health, flexibility, and balance. Additionally, many communities have spa or hot tubs for relaxation. (Bonus points if the swimming pool is paired with a hot tub!)

When it comes to senior living communities, there's perhaps no more iconic central amenity than the swimming pool.

Game rooms: Many senior living communities have game rooms that offer a variety of activities to keep residents engaged and active. This can include everything from billiards and table tennis, to card tables and board games. Game rooms are a great place for residents to socialize and make new friends. In fact, we’ve even seen senior living communities with tennis courts, arcade games, and more! 

Walking trails and gardens: Many senior living communities have walking trails and gardens on-site. These provide residents with a beautiful and serene environment to safely enjoy the outdoors, take a stroll, and get some exercise. Gardens and green spaces also play a role in boosting mental health and well-being. What better place than a garden to stop and smell the roses? 

Fitness and wellness centers: Many senior living communities have on-site fitness centers that offer a variety of classes and equipment, such as treadmills, stationary bikes, and weight machines. These centers also often have a pool for aquatic exercise and a spa for relaxation. Additionally, many communities offer wellness programs and classes, such as yoga and tai chi, to help residents maintain a healthy lifestyle. One of the biggest benefits of senior living is the active and social lifestyle it affords seniors, and exercise classes are a big part of that lifestyle.

Fitness classes are a great way for seniors to stay active and social.

Theater and performance spaces: Many senior living communities have theater or performance spaces where residents can enjoy live music, theater performances, and other cultural events. These spaces provide residents with an opportunity to engage with the arts, and many senior living communities offer classes and workshops to encourage participation, as well as social groups based around theater or music. 

Outdoor spaces: Many senior living communities have outdoor spaces such as patios, decks, and courtyards. These spaces provide residents with an opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, take in the natural beauty, and socialize with other residents. Many communities also have grilling areas and outdoor kitchens for residents to enjoy with each other and their families.

Many senior living communities feature outdoor spaces for their residents to enjoy social time together outside.

Pet-friendly spaces: Many senior living communities are pet-friendly and offer designated spaces for residents to spend time with their furry companions. This can include pet grooming stations, dog parks, and pet therapy programs. Having a pet can provide seniors with companionship, emotional support, and an opportunity to take care of someone else.  

Beauty and grooming salon: Many senior living communities have on-site beauty and grooming salons where residents can receive hair, nail, and beauty treatments. These salons provide residents with an opportunity to maintain their appearance without having to make a trip into town, as well as to socialize with other residents. Unsurprisingly, we hear that the beauty salon is a popular hangout at many communities that offer them. 

Art studios: Many senior living communities have art studios where residents can engage in creative activities such as painting, sculpting, and pottery. These studios provide residents with an opportunity to express themselves creatively and engage in a lifelong learning activity.  

Greenhouses and gardening spaces: Some senior living communities have greenhouses and gardening spaces where residents can grow their own fruits and vegetables. These spaces provide residents with an opportunity to engage in physical activity, enjoy the outdoors, and take part in growing their own healthy food.  

Virtual reality rooms: Some senior living communities have virtual reality rooms where residents can experience different environments and activities, such as visiting a virtual beach or taking a virtual tour of historical landmarks all without the physical strain of having to actually make the trek. This technology can provide residents with an opportunity to travel, explore new places, and engage in activities that may be difficult to do in real life.

Library and reading rooms: Many senior living communities have libraries and reading rooms where residents can borrow books, magazines and newspapers, and enjoy some quiet time. Some communities also have computer labs and other resources to support continued senior education.

Dining options: Many senior living communities offer a variety of dining options, from casual bistros to fine-dining restaurants. These options provide residents with a diverse selection of healthy and delicious meals. Some senior living communities even have a garden or greenhouse on-site where senior living residents grow their own fruits and vegetables. 

Social and recreational activities: Senior living communities often offer a wide variety of social and recreational activities to keep residents active and engaged. This can include everything from card and board game groups, to arts and crafts classes, to theater and music performances. Many communities also have libraries, computer labs, and other resources to support continued resident education through initiatives like classes and lectures.  

The socialization that comes from classes and other group activities provides a key wellness benefit for senior living residents.

Transportation services: Many senior living communities offer transportation services to help residents get around. This can include transportation to medical appointments, shopping trips, and other errands. Some senior living communities even have their own buses or vans to provide transportation for group outings and events. 

Health and medical services: Many senior living communities offer on-site health and medical services to help residents stay healthy and independent. This can include everything from regular check-ups and screenings, to physical therapy and rehabilitation services. Some communities even have a nurse or doctor on staff to provide residents with regular medical care. The level of medical care available at a community will typically be determined by the acuity level of the community’s residents, ranging from independent living communities which often do not have medical professionals or facilities, to skilled nursing facilities which offer comprehensive medical services.

Safety and security features: Many senior living communities have safety and security features in place to help residents feel safe and secure. This can include security cameras, alarm systems, and emergency response teams. Some communities also have staff members available 24/7 to provide assistance if needed. This is particularly the case in higher acuity senior living communities like assisted living or memory care.

Personalized care and assistance: Many senior living communities offer personalized care and assistance to help residents with activities of daily living. This can include help with bathing, dressing, and medication management, as well as assistance with transportation and other errands. 

Overall, the best amenities in senior living communities are those that help residents maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Whether it's fitness and wellness centers, dining options, social and recreational activities, transportation services, health and medical services, safety and security features, or personalized care and assistance, these amenities help to ensure that seniors can continue to live independently and comfortably. To learn more about how Sunbound can help make senior living more affordable for you or your loved one, send us an email at info@sunboundhomes.com or request more information on Sunbound. Sunbound is the best way to pay for senior living and is on a mission to make senior living affordable for everyone.

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