According to a 2018 survey by the International Council on Active Aging, 60% of senior living professionals say that their communities will shift from care-based operations to a wellness lifestyle focus by 2023.
The pandemic accelerated this shift. As senior living executives tried to keep their residents engaged and active to avoid social isolation, the industry made the necessary changes to support their needs. This wellness-centered model established out of necessity will now become a new post-pandemic norm.
Seniors are living longer and healthier lives. Along with the changes in the health system to encourage preventative measures instead of treating illnesses, more senior living organizations are becoming incentivized to foster and create wellness in their communities. Seniors are seeking out communities that will fulfill their needs and contribute to total well-being.
Here are a few things that senior living communities can do to emphasize their wellness culture:
Offer different dimensions of wellness
Residents should not be limited to just one dimension of wellness. For holistic well-being to occur, the eight dimensions of wellness must be present: emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, physical, social, spiritual, and vocational.
Invest in wellness-based technology
Technology that enhances well-being and prevents isolation such as smart devices, voice technology, or telehealth should be available to residents.
Start wellness programs
To get residents involved in the different dimensions of wellness, communities can enact wellness programs. They could be weekly book clubs to focus on social and intellectual wellness, monthly financial seminars, or optional spiritual gatherings. Start with a wide variety of options to find out what draws in residents.
Take suggestions from residents
If your residents don’t seem interested in the ideas you provide, then ask them what they want. They know what would benefit them more than anyone.
Create a wellness-centered mission statement
Prospective residents want to see what a community is doing to reach their wellness goals. Clearly state your community’s end goal in making wellness a priority on the community webpage.
Follow-through
After making the wellness statement, follow through.. Take the necessary steps to implement positive changes in your community to ensure that your actions reflect your stated values.
Wellzesta
Wellzesta’s fundamental purpose is to provide holistic wellness to all users through the eight dimensions of wellness. Wellzesta’s name is a combination of WELLness and a ZEST for life.
Wellzesta Life offers residents various wellness options, including goal-setting technology, communication features, and intellectual stimulation. Residents can select articles, videos, or events that correspond to their preferred wellness dimension.
Click here to learn more about Wellzesta or connect with a member of our Sales team.
