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Retirement is meant to be a time of relaxation, fulfillment, and new adventures. However, it can also bring about feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially as life undergoes significant changes.
How to deal with feelings of loneliness was amplified during the Covid-19 pandemic when self-isolation and lockdowns became part of everyone’s life. Now that things have returned to normal, the focus has shifted but loneliness is worrying and, in some cases, even dangerous – with scientists in some parts of the world labeling it a silent killer among the elderly.
Corene Breedt-Rammutla, chief executive officer of Circle Senior Living, has extensive experience in assisting seniors to navigate these life changes. She shares some tips on how managers of retirement developments can help residents beat loneliness and create vibrant and inclusive communities.
1. Foster community involvement
The first step in combating loneliness is to encourage residents to take charge of their feelings and reach out to organisations and groups within the retirement community. A retirement estate already has a like-minded community in place but throwing people in a development doesn’t mean they will automatically be friends.
Facilitating opportunities for active involvement, such as organising social events, sporting clubs, and community service initiatives, should be ongoing. Not only does it provide avenues for residents to connect with one another, but it also helps build meaningful relationships. Consider support structures outside of the estate too. Collaborating with local faith-based organisations is an often-forgotten option but they offer a valuable support network and activities that cater to the interests of seniors.
2. Create a social calendar
Never underestimate the importance of providing residents with a vibrant social calendar that includes a diverse range of activities and events. The aim is to keep residents busy, but not overburdened, so that there is no time for feelings of loneliness to creep in.
From fitness classes to art workshops, and book clubs to gardening sessions, offering a variety of options allows residents to explore their passions and connect with others who share similar interests. This can reignite their sense of purpose and bring back personal connections to their daily lives.
3. Encourage personal growth
Retirement is a time for residents to embrace their passions and pursue personal growth. Managers can support this journey by organising an art class or a weekday outing to the local library. The aim is to enable residents to learn new skills or rediscover old ones. Providing opportunities for continuous learning and self-improvement like the hosting of a short course on how to use the latest technology for example will help residents stay engaged and connected with the world around them.
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4. Embrace the spirit of challenge
Age is just a number, and retirement is the perfect time to break free from your comfort zones and try something new. Estate managers can facilitate this by organising friendly competitions, game nights, or even sporting events within the retirement community. These activities not only promote physical well-being but also foster a sense of camaraderie and friendly rivalry among residents.
5. Communication is key
Managers should emphasise the importance of ongoing communication between residents and their families. It’s easy for family members to become busy with their own lives, leaving residents feeling forgotten or isolated. By encouraging regular contact through phone calls, video chats, or even organising family events within the community, managers can help bridge the gap between residents and their loved ones, ensuring they feel valued and connected.
6. Create inviting spaces
A well-designed retirement development should go beyond just providing living spaces. Managers should strive to create an environment where residents feel comfortable and inspired to socialise. Developments should offer a range of amenities such as gyms, spas, cinemas, business centres, and restaurants that serve as extensions of residents’ homes. Ensure these spaces are always accessible and inviting and encourage residents to utilise as many of the facilities as they can to help foster a sense of community interaction.
Gone are the days when retired individuals were banished to senior living developments and forgotten about. Today’s retirement estates are thriving communities that celebrate life and the shared experiences of residents. However, it’s still possible to be lonely and be surrounded by others. This is why combating loneliness must be an ongoing project.
