Activities for Senior Living Residents

One of the joys of retirement is there’s no longer a list of things you have to do. However, it can be surprisingly challenging to find things you want to do each day. This can lead to isolation and loneliness. Plus, the lack of activity and mental engagement can take a toll on your health. We've compiled plenty of options that help you stay active — physically, mentally and socially. Read on to learn ways you can remain engaged and enthusiastic about each day.

Exercise Regularly

Getting your body moving regularly helps keep you physically stronger and healthier. Exercise can improve your flexibility and balance, maintain your mobility and reduce your risk of falls. It's also a good mood booster. Group exercise classes let you combine physical activity and socialization. Look for a class aimed at seniors to keep the moves safe and appropriate. If a suitable class isn't easily accessible, look into exercise videos or streaming workout programs. 

Join a Club

Clubs and organizations that meet regularly offer the perfect opportunity to try something new or donate your time to service. It keeps you socially active at regular intervals and lets you engage in activities related to your interests. Common options include Bible study groups, book clubs and volunteer organizations. You might also join a group that focuses on a specific hobby or topic, such as arts and crafts or genealogy. Look for local groups that match your interests or focus on something new you want to learn. Joining multiple groups gives you more ways to stay connected and engaged in the community.

If you can't find a group locally, check online for options. You might find a virtual group that meets over Zoom or other video conferencing platforms. Online message boards can also help you connect with other people who share a certain interest. Being involved in these groups helps you grow friendships and lets you engage your mind. 

Stay Mentally Engaged

Spending too much time indoors by yourself can affect your mood. Socializing can help improve your outlook on life, but solo activities can also engage you mentally. Head to a local museum, symphony performance, theatrical production or other entertainment venues. Simply getting a change of scenery can boost your mood, but the activities help stimulate your mind.

Virtual field trips, available online, let you visit famous museums and landmarks without leaving home. Listening to music can also improve your mood. Create or arrange playlists of songs from different genres that you can listen to or enjoy with guests. Inviting a friend over to play a game or put together a puzzle combines a brain-stimulating activity with welcome companionship. 

Enjoy What Aberdeen Village Has to Offer

Living at Aberdeen Village means you have access to a wide range of activity options without ever leaving the campus. You can enjoy and participate in on-site options that help you connect with your neighbors and potentially build lasting friendships. Check out these available options:

• Exercise classes: Hop in the pool for a water aerobics class or join a group chair exercise session for senior-friendly options to help you get your daily exercise and bond with other residents. For days when you don't feel like leaving your home, you can turn on the in-house TV channel in your room. There you'll find video-streamed beginning chair exercises and stretches.
  
  
• Interest clubs: Aberdeen Village offers several clubs that you can join, including women's and men's coffee clubs and a book club that's ideal for avid readers. Another option is the Handy Hobby Club, where members work on their projects while they chat.
  
  
• Group outings: You can join in on several community outings to places including dinner theater performances and shopping trips.
  
  Our residents can participate in choosing places to go. Here’s a list of popular outings:

• Weekly grocery shopping
• Monthly brunch hop
• Lunch outings to local favorites
• Monthly Walmart shopping trip
• Bank Run on a monthly basis, as needed
  
  

• Art Is Ageless: Through the Art Is Ageless program, you can participate in art classes and programs related to creative activities. You can also enjoy a yearly exhibit and juried art competition.
  
  
• Workshops and classes: Aberdeen Village offers the Just Ask program, which includes all types of classes, workshops and seminars. Topics might include downsizing in retirement, technology and benefits.
  
  
• Presentations from community friends: These have become some of the most well-attended events at Aberdeen Village. Presentations from local community members include:

• Travel with Fred — Quality educational travelogs that are digitally presented, expertly photographed, and narrated in person.
• Uncorked & Decanted with Frank & Maria Bramwell: They tell a story about different things and areas of popularity from the past along with the wine that was popular with that era. They also bring samples of the wine for all to taste and enjoy.
• Continuing education courses from the University of Kansas Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

• Religious and faith-based services: We encourage spiritual growth in our residents as part of our holistic wellness approach. Aberdeen Village provides many opportunities for residents to practice their faith, including:

• Family Church service each Sunday
• Live-streaming services on Sundays from the College Church of Nazarene and our own Presbyterian Village Church
• Catholic Rosary on Wednesday and Catholic Mass on the first Friday of the month
• Vesper services with local guest pastors
• Bible studies
• Prayer groups
• Choir
  
  

• Support groups: Our chaplain facilitates the support groups (listed below) on a monthly basis to help residents connect with others, foster a sense of community and explore ways to enhance their wellbeing. 

• Settling In Group
• Care Partners Group
• Low Vision Group
• Mobility Issues Group
  
  

• Scheduled activities: The community also maintains a robust calendar of activities and events to keep residents engaged. Options may vary based on the type of care. Friday Social featuring entertainment and light snacks and beverages prior to dinner and movies shown at the chapel or streamed into residents’ homes have been popular in the community.

Schedule a Visit

Aberdeen Village is centered around a culture of living life “the way you want to live.”® We offer a spectrum of care that includes Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing, and you'll find amenities and activities available year-round. Contact us or call 913-213-1686 to schedule a visit or learn more.