It’s more important than ever for seniors to feel included and engaged. In 2020, it was reported that 24% of seniors were socially isolated. This number was recorded before the worldwide pandemic that resulted in even further isolation, especially in vulnerable populations.

This loneliness can also increase as adults age and transition into senior living communities, because their motivation for engagement and activity may decline. They may not see a need to build more relationships or engage their mind in new ways. On the other hand, some crave activities to fill their days, yet don’t have access to truly worthwhile events.

Whether you work at a senior living community, are an older adult, or know a loved one in senior living, there are many opportunities to become mentally, physically, and socially active. Here is a list of activities that will not only keep senior living residents connected, but also strengthen their cognitive ability, promote physical activity, and encourage them socially:

Cognitive Activities

Cognitive stimulation helps maintain and enhance the mental functions of seniors. Incorporating regular cognitive stimulation through activities such as games, discussions and learning opportunities contributes to a more vibrant, engaged and healthy resident population. Staying active cognitively enhances not only mental acuity but also the overall well-being and quality of life for each of our residents. The following activities are entertaining, but more importantly they challenge the mind:

• Sudoku
• Coloring Pages
• Crossword Puzzles
• Jigsaw Puzzles
• Brain Teasers
• Dancing
• Knitting
• Painting
• Scrapbooking
• Chess
• Checkers

• Bridge
• Cribbage
• Listening to Music
• Singing – Karaoke
• Playing an Instrument
• Recalling Song Lyrics
• Gardening
• Cooking and Baking
• Mindfulness
• Meditation
• Scrabble

Physical Activities

Physical health is critically important for senior housing communities because it directly impacts the residents’ quality of life, independence, and overall well-being. Maintaining physical health as people age helps them live more fulfilling lives, reduces healthcare needs, and fosters a positive community atmosphere. Promoting physical health through regular, accessible, and enjoyable activities helps residents stay active and independent. It creates a positive, supportive environment where health and well-being are prioritized, ultimately benefiting the entire community. The following activities first and foremost prioritize movement:

• Walking Clubs
• Chair Yoga
• Tai Chi
• Strength Training using resistance bands or light weights
• Dance classes
• Gardening
• Stretching Classes
• Bocce Ball or Lawn Bowling
• Low-Impact Aerobics

• Balance Training
• Pet Therapy
• Mindful Walking/Nature Hiking
• Outdoor Games
• Fitness Challenges
• Sitting Volleyball
• Adaptive Sports
• Darts
• Ball Games

Social Activities

Social connections are vital in senior living communities because they contribute to the emotional, mental, and even physical well-being of residents. Fostering strong social bonds within a community is essential to creating a supportive, fulfilling environment where residents can thrive. By encouraging social engagement and staying active in relationships, the community promotes overall health, reduces isolation, and builds a stronger sense of belonging for everyone involved. These activities are focused on building relationships based on common interests:

• Arts and Crafts
• Group Fitness Classes
• Cooking
• Baking
• Coloring
• Game Nights
• Murder Mystery Dinner Nights
• Outdoor Excursions
• Bird Watching
• Nearby Parks/Botanical Gardens
• Gardening
• Writing/Poetry Groups

• Singing
• Line Dancing
• Book Clubs/Reading Groups
• Game Nights
• Movie Nights
• Themed Social Events
• Intergenerational Programs
• Support Groups
• Discussion Groups
• Trivia and Quiz Competitions
• Technology Classes

Cornerstone Communities

Cornerstone prioritizes our residents’ involvement so that our communities feel like home. We want each member of our community to experience growth—cognitively, physically and socially. By staying active with regular engaging activities and events, seniors can overcome isolation and experience healthy community.