Combating isolation in seniors to support cognitive health
Senior living communities like Bellevue Park Senior Living in Aldergrove are innovating to combat isolation among the elderly. Photo courtesy of Bellevue Park Senior Living.
As our population ages, more attention is being paid to how we can support mental health and reduce cognitive decline in older adults. In particular, as the risk of dementia grows larger, the significant role that social interactions play in maintaining cognitive health has become central.
This is why senior living residences like Bellevue Park in Aldergrove put meaningful social connections and a sense of belonging at the heart of their community philosophy. The goal is to create a connected, engaged residence where individuals can age with dignity, vitality, and resilience.
The impact of isolation includes long-acknowledged factors like genetics and lifestyle choices, now joined by living conditions, particularly the impact of solitude on the elderly.
According to recent studies, solitary living, while providing autonomy, may lead to severe health repercussions when extended. For example, loneliness can not only elevate the risk of depression and cardiovascular disease but has also been linked to premature death.
The mechanisms through which loneliness impacts brain health include stress and inflammation, which can trigger a stress response, increasing cortisol levels and inflammation, both associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Reduced cognitive stimulation is another factor, as social interactions foster cognitive engagement crucial for brain health. Additionally, isolated individuals often adopt poor health behaviors such as inadequate nutrition, lack of exercise, and insufficient sleep. The absence of a supportive network can exacerbate psychological distress, adversely affecting cognitive function.
The Bellevue method
In response to these findings, senior living communities like Bellevue Park Senior Living in Aldergrove are innovating to combat isolation among the elderly.
Their mission emphasizes building strong community bonds, and the community is designed with features that promote safety and social interaction. Bellevue Park integrates technology to maintain family connections and offers programs that encourage community engagement and volunteering.
Bellevue Park’s unique offerings:
Continuum of support: Bellevue Park offers a continuum of support which allows residents the pleasure of living in place.
Functional fitness classes: Classes are available for balance, coordination, strength, and endurance to improve activities of daily living.
Medical services: Access to medical services is provided on-site.
Volunteer opportunities and social connections: Numerous volunteer opportunities, social connections, and enrichment programming are available.
Intuitive design: The building is intuitively designed with accessible suites.
Nutrition and culinary team: An on-site nutritionist works closely with the culinary team to ensure healthy dining options.
On-site spa: The spa includes a Hydrotherapy tub, a Hair salon, and professional foot and nail care.
Living in Bellevue Park’s Independent Living Community helps residents stay independent longer than staying alone in their homes with services.
Visit Bellevue Park’s presentation centre at 27272 Fraser Hwy., or contact their team at 604-329-3664 for more details. Further information is available at bellevuepark.ca.