While a move into assisted living is a major life change, it doesn't mean you have to give up going to church. In fact, the decision to move can make it easier for you to continue attending worship services.
Issues with fatigue, health and mobility are some of the most common reasons to consider moving into an assisted living community. These issues are also reasons older adults may stop regularly visiting their church.
Many things can trigger fatigue for seniors, including the burden of home and yard maintenance. Assisted living, however, offers daily support with your routine to combat exhaustion. Staff members cook, clean and tend to outdoor chores in your place, ensuring you can rest when feeling tired. This can give you the energy needed to continue attending worship services.
Stress can be as tiring as physical activity, but on-call caregivers can help relieve stress points for you. For example, your care team can help you bathe and dress so you don't have to worry about an accidental fall. They can also remind you to take medications on time, which can help improve your overall wellness and energy levels.
Injuries and health problems can hinder mobility for many older adults. Residents in the assisted living communities under the Bethesda Senior Living Communities umbrella have access to many amenities that can help, including therapy and rehabilitation.
Licensed therapists can guide you through stretches and exercises designed to improve and restore mobility. You can also attend scheduled exercises and fall prevention classes with your fellow community members. Additionally, participation in group activities can provide encouragement to help you maintain the effort and see your goals through to the end.
Transportation can be a barrier to regular church attendance for seniors. Driving and maintaining a vehicle and driver's license can be difficult for some older adults who have health and vision issues. Other individuals simply don't enjoy driving or the financial burden of car ownership.
Transportation is a common amenity in a senior living community. Many transport residents to worship centers, grocery stores, doctor's appointments and social engagements. This can let you avoid the hassle of trying to plan a ride with family members or friends. Instead, you'll be able to focus on enjoying your day of worship without stress.
At Bethesda Senior Living Communities, we treasure service and volunteering. We give our residents the support they need to go beyond Sunday morning attendance to become thriving participants in their church family.
Many churches encourage their members to host Bible studies in their homes. These intimate studies are the ideal environment for individuals to engage, share and learn together. One of the most impactful gifts a Christian can offer their fellow believers is encouragement and support.
Leading such a group in your assisted living apartment offers you the opportunity to share your life's experiences with others. The support you receive from your care team can help you have the time and energy to give back to your church in a leadership role.
Handwritten notes in a greeting card can make a tremendous impact on a believer experiencing hardships. Many churches rely on card ministry volunteers to send out messages to individuals on the prayer list who are sick or going through a difficult time.
Writing short messages of encouragement is a powerful way to remember to pray for each of these individuals. If you enjoy making cards, you may want to ask about using your creations in the ministry. You might also ask about creating a birthday list and tailoring the cards to match the age and preferences of the recipients.
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus calls on his followers to make disciples of all nations. As a senior in an assisted living community, even a trip to the dining hall for breakfast offers you the opportunity to share your testimony with others.
While it's best not to argue with a neighbor who doesn't share your faith, you can speak honestly about your beliefs and what God means to you personally. Ask others to go with you to church and faith-based activities, and when they accept your offer, make sure they feel welcome and comfortable.
Another way you can minister to members of your assisted living community is to host studies and sing-alongs. When a community member is sick or discouraged, you can offer to pray for and with them.
Whether you are considering a move into assisted living or have recently joined a community, you can rest assured the decision can help you continue to attend local churches. Additionally, the ability to take part regularly in social interactions gives you daily opportunities to share God's love with others.
