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The 8 Areas of Life – Community is the 7th Area
One by one, we are covering the 8 Areas of Life in greater detail. It’s the premise that when each area is considered and developed well, that all of life seems to work a little easier for our aging loved one and for ourselves, the family caregiver.
The 7th Area of Life is Community.
Last month we covered the 6theArea of Life, Fulfillment. Now we move on to the 7th important Area of Life –COMMUNITY!
To review the importance of all 8 Areas and how they work together, here is the link to that BLOG.
COMMUNITY is a topic so multifaceted. For the purposes of education and inspiration, let’s narrow it down and focus on one element. That element is something we all have felt and we continue to feel when we are part of something bigger than ourselves. I’m talking about when we are feeling seen, are thought of and are included in something meaningful.
COMMUNITY can be a wonderful source of comfort, connection, and joy for both residents and their families. Your aging loved one is part of a unique community within their care facility, where each person brings their own stories, strengths, and life experiences.
Encouraging participation in activities, conversations, and shared moments can help foster a sense of belonging and inclusion. Take time to connect with other residents, families, and staff, too.
Meaningful communities are built on respect, kindness, and an appreciation for our differences. On difficult days, a friendly visit, a shared laugh, or simply knowing that others care can lift spirits and remind us that we are not alone. When people support one another and celebrate what each person contributes, community becomes a place where everyone feels seen, valued, and connected.
Over the next while and in many different ways, we will discuss what COMMUNITY means. You will get ideas, tips, stories and suggestions to try so you and your aging loved one can experience a higher sense of COMMUNITY and meet the needs of the 7th Area of life.
If you haven’t already read them, here are all our past blog posts:
Statistics Worth Knowing
Social participation helps maintain dignity, identity, and purpose.
CIHI reports that for residents whose physical or cognitive changes limit independence, involvement in the social life of the care home can be essential for preserving their sense of self and belonging.
Source:
Most long-term care residents live with cognitive impairment or dementia, making social connection especially important. Researchers studying Canadian long-term care homes note that social connection is a basic human need and a key contributor to quality of life for residents living with dementia.
Source:
Tips To Help You
Caregiver Tip: Watch for Signs Your Aging Loved One May Be Missing Out from a healthy Sense of Community
A strong sense of community helps residents feel valued, included, and connected. If your aging loved one seems withdrawn, rarely mentions other residents or staff, declines activities they once enjoyed, or often says they feel lonely or like they "don't fit in," they may not be experiencing the sense of belonging that is so important to well-being.
Three ways you can help:
Encourage meaningful connections. Ask about the people in their residence and help them identify activities, clubs, or gatherings that match their interests. Even one familiar face or regular social interaction can make a big difference.
Build bridges with the community around them. Introduce yourself to staff, attend family events, and get to know other residents and families. By helping your aging loved one feel recognized, included, and appreciated for who they are, you can strengthen their ties to the community and create more opportunities for connection and support.
Consider having another regular, helpful individual around. Families do so much for their aging loved ones –which is great! However, one thing to consider is to have someone -who is not family— take a regular presence in their aging loved one’s life. Someone who can encourage, make suggestions and be that positive enabler for them. Someone who isn’t involved in past family dynamics, who can go along with a person’s right to reinvent themselves. This is a big part of getting an aging loved one out and building community again.
Sometimes, a simple invitation, shared conversation, or friendly visit is all it takes to help someone feel seen, valued, and part of something bigger than themselves.
Tips You Can Act On
If you find that your aging loved one has become more closed in. Has their sense of community has gotten smaller and/or they are leaning heavily on you – the family caregiver for both care and entertainment, then perhaps you need to make a change for the better for everyone!
Consider having someone –who is not family— take a regular presence in their aging loved one’s life. Someone who can encourage, make suggestions and be that positive enabler for them. Someone who isn’t involved in past family dynamics, who can go along with a person’s right to reinvent themselves. You can look at other friends, community services or consider the reliability of A Friend Indeed with regularly scheduled visits.
This is a big part of getting your aging loved one past themselves and towards building a sense of community again.
Quotes Worth Sharing
"A Canada where older adults feel valued, included, supported and better prepared to age with confidence." - National Institute on Ageing (NIA), Canada, Vision Statement.
"An age-friendly community recognizes that seniors have a lot to offer their community and recognizes how important it is to include seniors in all areas of community life." - Government of Canada, Age-Friendly Communities.
A Testimonial
After struggling to find reliable companionship for my mother on my own (In Innisfail and then subsequently in Olds), I decided to reach out to business that offers this service. After several calls with various companies, I had a great conversation with Robyn at A Friend Indeed and decided to go with them. It was the best decision for my mom and I. Robyn hired individuals who were committed, reliable, and trustworthy. Their companionship for my mom was invaluable, and I am so thankful I had them for support for not only my mom, but for myself.
Companionship aside, the company itself has great communication and is very transparent, and they always made sure we were always on the same page without being asked. Would absolutely recommend Robyn and her team to anyone who was looking for a friend / companion for themselves or a family member.
-- Cass L
What Would It Be?
If you had a Magic Wand? And had ONE WISH that would help your aging loved one overcome an obstacle that prevents them from entering into their own COMMUNITY or feeling more of member in their COMMUNITY…
What would you wish for?
Write it in the comments and see what other families wish for. Could it be the same thing or something different?
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