As of 2020, nearly 7 million American seniors use residential long-term care services, including assisted living and memory care communities. Industry experts expect this number to surge in the coming years as the population continues to age, increasing the need for effective long-term care solutions.
Reading for pleasure and knowledge is a powerful habit to cultivate at any age. In fact, recent research indicates that leisure reading can help improve episodic memory and working memory. Working memory may naturally decline with age, and this is part of what supports language processing and long-term memory in the brain, so engaging in activities that strengthen this cognitive function can be a good idea as you enter retirement.
The Bible offers a rich resource of spiritual guidance, and some of the most hope-filled, specific instructions can be found in the stories of Jesus. Getting to the guidance through the parables Jesus wraps it in does take a little work, though. If you want to dig deeper into Scripture as an older adult, whether you're reading alone or joining a Bible study in your assisted living community, consider following the steps below.
The world isn't a perfect place. Older adults of faith know this is true, but they also know that in both times of goodness and times of trial, they aren't alone. Knowing these truths and living them in times of change, challenge or trial aren't the same thing, though, and it can be helpful to return to well-known Bible stories to be reminded how others have shown resilience during times of trial by relying on God and his Word.
Worship is central to the life of a Christian. It helps you express reverence and devotion to the One who died for your sins. From the earliest days of Christendom, singing has been an integral part of worship. The Bible also encourages us to sing:
At Bethesda senior living communities, one of the questions older adults ask us most frequently is how independent living and assisted living differ. If you’ve been wondering which type of senior living community is right for you, this introduction to those key differences can help you begin to decide.
If you've been a person of faith for any period of your life, you've likely heard at least one recounting of the story of Daniel and the lion's den. And if you grew up in Sunday school, you probably heard it more than once — and with illustrative felt pieces to go along with it.
When you're downsizing to independent living, assisted living or simply a more manageable property, you can't always take all your items with you. Common strategies for downsizing include gifting items to others, selling items online or in a yard sale and donating items to thrift stores or churches. As an older adult, giving away or selling so many things can be difficult, as you might feel you're getting rid of legacy items and memories.
At Bethesda Senior Living Communities, we're dedicated to helping residents improve their quality of life. If you're tired of shoveling snow, paying for maintenance or worrying about rising property taxes, assisted living offers a comfortable alternative. When you're ready to move to a community of seniors with diverse life experiences, follow these tips for a streamlined experience.
The Bible makes it clear what the first step in seeking spiritual guidance should be for anyone of any age. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
15475 Gleneagle Dr
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Phone: (719) 481-5481
Email: geninfo@ba.org