Wellness extends far beyond physical health. It’s the mindful achievement of health in all aspects of life, including its mental, emotional, social, spiritual, intellectual, and occupational components.
“Wellness to me and Presbyterian Senior Living is an active process, a conscious self-directed evolving process, becoming aware of and working toward a healthier self,” says Kevin Mallon, Corporate Director of the Thrive Wellness program at Presbyterian Senior Living.
As we age, our habits can become deeply ingrained, but embracing change and progress is essential to maintaining a growth mindset, which is a hallmark of successful aging and multi-dimensional wellness.
The multiple dimensions of wellness
At Presbyterian Senior Living, a holistic approach to healthy living is embedded in every activity as we encourage residents to explore together the many dimensions of wellness.
“Those who are actively cultivating that mindset, trying different things, intentionally doing hard things, you see a lot better outcomes,” Kevin says. “It’s kind of a balance of putting the different elements of wellness together to form that rock-solid base we can express ourselves.”
1. Mental and emotional wellness: Linking our bodies and minds
Achieving mental and emotional wellness often involves managing stress and maintaining a positive outlook. Presbyterian Senior Living offers mindfulness classes on many of its campuses, addressing the aging process, mindset, and grief issues.
“There’s breath work, meditation, and information on how we process our emotions. I see that emotional component also linked to physical wellness,” Kevin says.
By embracing emotional and physical wellness, residents can better understand their feelings and maintain a healthy balance. Programs such as aquatics classes and other fitness offerings help connect the mind and body, resulting in a sense of peace and mindfulness.
Beyond the physical aspect, programs such as Opening Minds Through Art at Pine Run Village promote autonomy, social engagement, dignity, and creative self-expression for residents, especially those with memory loss. That program in particular pairs those dealing with memory issues and assistants who help guide them through the process of artistic creation.
2. Social wellness: Bringing back the art of play
Social connections have a significant role in overall wellness. Presbyterian Senior Living fosters social wellness through inclusive and meaningful interactions.
Communities offer pool parties, game nights, dances, group dinners, and neighborhood groups that welcome new residents and help them get settled. These activities stress the importance of play and community, gathering residents and promoting a sense of belonging. More communities have been adding inter-campus activities, welcoming residents from other Presbyterian Senior Living sites for events and activities.
“When you play, that idea of past and future goes to the wayside and it brings you into the current moment,” Kevin says. “It creates that flow. The more we can drop into the ‘right now’ is better for our psyche. Play is instrumental in that.”
3. Spiritual wellness: Challenging perspectives and encouraging expression
Spiritual wellness can mean different things to each person. At Presbyterian Senior Living, each campus offers chaplain availability, providing residents with opportunities to express their spirituality and cultivate their spiritual well-being. This support is essential for many individuals as they seek to maintain their spiritual health.
“When you’re constantly challenging your perspective, looking for new ways to express your spirituality, that touches on the fact that the brain is changeable,” Kevin says.
He points out that our perspectives also can change as we age. When we consciously open our minds to new ideas, true growth happens.
“Put specific things in front of you that stretch that curiosity,” Kevin says. “When you’re living on that edge where you’re a little uncomfortable, that’s where the growth happens.”
4. Intellectual and occupational wellness: Encouraging continuous growth
Intellectual wellness involves ongoing learning and mental stimulation. Presbyterian Senior Living strives to expand intellectual wellness at every stage of the aging journey by providing vitalizing mental activities.
Cathedral Village in Philadelphia, for example, includes The Village College. Residents and guest teachers present programs based on their professions and interests, creating a curriculum that enriches the lives of those around them. Similar programs, such as Pine Run University, offer intellectual engagement at other campuses. Various clubs, organizations, and activities encourage residents to step out of their comfort zone, expand their minds, and engage in learning.
Occupational wellness remains relevant even in retirement. Presbyterian Senior Living supports residents in finding purpose and satisfaction through numerous activities and volunteer opportunities.
Offerings such as wood shops, crafting groups, model train rooms, and thrift stores connect residents to pursuits that might draw on established skills or teach other abilities. These activities promote intellectual pursuits and occupational fulfillment, enriching the lives of residents.
Thrive Wellness: A holistic approach
Presbyterian Senior Living’s Thrive Wellness program incorporates all these dimensions to create an environment where residents can continue to grow.
“Thrive Wellness in general is looking at the life on each campus. How do we tie in all the dimensions of wellness into the campus? It’s about creating habits and systems that are available to people,” says Kevin.
By offering meaningful opportunities and encouraging residents to try new things, Presbyterian Senior Living aims to change the way people age, promoting growth and joy in every stage of life.
As we celebrate National Wellness Month in August, remember that wellness is a holistic journey encompassing physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, intellectual, and occupational dimensions. At Presbyterian Senior Living, our Thrive Wellness program provides the resources and support for residents to embrace this journey, creating a community where everyone can grow full, not old.
“Keep that growth mindset. Keep striving as part of your everyday life,” Kevin says. “That’s part of Thrive Wellness, where people have options to thrive and find their wellness.”
