Staying socially connected in residential aged care

The worry that your loved one will feel isolated or lonely is a common concern for many family members who are contemplating their loved ones moving into a residential aged care home on the Gold Coast. Feelings of loneliness and isolation don’t just affect a person’s mental health, many physical issues may arise including: 

• Depression. 
• High blood pressure.
• Strokes
• Stress.

When residents maintain social connections and engage with those around them, they are happier, healthier and have a greater sense of purpose. 

Stay socially connected at HillView Care

We understand the transition into aged care isn’t always easy, moving away from the family home, friends, neighbours and family can be difficult. Health or mobility problems can also make it more difficult to get out and about and be social. 

Rest assured, at HillView Care we take special care to ensure your loved one stays socially connected, whether they are moving into our Ashmore or Merrimac aged care homes. We cater to all residents, especially those who find it harder to move around. 

But it’s more than just bingo! Our diversional therapists are fully qualified and have a great understanding of how to develop lifestyle activities and events to engage residents who have a varying level of needs. 

For the more active residents, we have a great program of physical activities to get their body moving. We run exercise classes, as well as the HillView ‘Steps’ program, regular walking groups taking residents off on a variety of adventures in the local area such as beaches or lakelands. 

For those who need a little help to get moving, our in-house physiotherapist and exercise therapists assist residents with daily movement, strength and flexibility. 

Some of the physical activities organised by our diversional therapists include: 

• Bocce.
• Shuffleboard. 
• Gardening.
• Garden walks.

As well as our standard lifestyle activities such as BBQs, music concerts, karaoke, morning teas, movies and happy hour, we have exciting events such as ice-cream extravaganzas, animal farm visits and quiz nights. 

Some of our most recent special events have included a Mad Hatter’s tea party, twilight concerts, wildlife shows, high teas, Gold Coast Show day and regular visits from dog therapy teams. 

Benefits of social connections for seniors

There are many benefits of staying active in residential aged care, including: 

• Improved memory.
• Decreased feelings of isolation.
• Learning new things.
• Finding new passions.
• Enhanced mood.
• Improved physical and mental health. 
• Relieving stress and boredom.

Find out more

If you’re ready to find out more about HillView Care and what we offer, we’d love to hear from you. You can BOOK A TOUR at our HillView Merrimac, or HillView Ashmore homes.

Alternatively, request a callback and one of our friendly staff will contact you to give you more information.