Active Life, Better Quality of Life
Living a life that is physically, mentally and socially active has benefits. Big benefits in fact. That’s why at all MBK Senior Living communities our Mind+Body Wellness program and passionate Directors of Resident Enrichment play an essential role in the lives of our residents. And while, National Activity Professionals Week was honored in January, we celebrate our team and the good they do to help keep residents engaged and active all-year long. You see, according to multiple studies, staying active from head-to-toe can improve circulation, improve mental acuity, increase energy, decrease depression and anxiety, lower the risk of stroke, cancers, type 2 diabetes, and dementia. Plus, those who stay active mentally and physically have a better self-esteem, accountability, purpose and maintain their independence longer. Simply put, living an active life provides you with better quality of life. Here are a few of the amazing ways our Directors of Resident Enrichment, MBK Fit Coordinators and residents have partnered to brighten days and live life to its best.
Sociability, Brain Acuity & Vitamin D
When Debbie moved into Estancia Del Sol two years ago, she was all alone – no family. Prior to moving to the community she had a care conservator providing aid in her home. During her first few weeks in our community, she did not talk to anyone but would walk the halls constantly. She never went outside. Resident Enrichment Director, Maria Sierra would greet her often and over time, Debbie would seek Maria out to engage in conversation or work on brain teasers together. One beautiful day, Maria asked Debbie if she would like to go sit outside and do the brain teasers on the patio, her expression was shock. For years, under the conservator, she was not allowed to go outside. Maria assured her she was allowed to go outside and led the way. The joy on her face was priceless, and from that day her demeanor completely changed. Now, she participates in activities regularly, enjoys going on the outings, and goes out of her way to make new residents feel comfortable and welcomed. To think, it all started with engaging conversation, brain teasers and some sunshine. And now, Debbie is enjoying an active, social lifestyle.
Step by Step
Jean moved to The Commons at Union Ranch after suffering a stroke that caused her to lose strength in her legs and left her unable to stand or walk. But that wasn’t going to stop Jean from staying active. Motivated to stand up and walk on her own again, Jean started working with Diana Reyes, MBK Fit Coordinator, three days a week, and working with her physical therapist two more days a week. With a lot of hard work, sweat, and tears, she was able to stand up but feared falling if she lifted her leg to take a step. Jean was on the verge of giving in and feared she’d never walk again. But Diana didn’t give up. She worked diligently with Jean to remain positive guided her through training sessions celebrated with her when Jean’s hard work paid off. Last May, Jean took 50 steps and continues to make strides. These days, Jean can walk with just the aid of her walker. Her gait has improved and she’s walking more smoothly. She’s feeling more confident, accomplished and independent. One day, she hopes to take steps without a walker. With hard work, she can get there.
Healthy, Happy & Strong
When Robin moved to The Commons on Thornton three years ago he was in a wheelchair, depressed, and an avid drinker and smoker. As a result of his inactivity, he had gained 70 pounds. While he would attend some of exercise classes led by MBK Fit Coordinator Tina Trillo, he had a difficult time getting through them. He would breathe heavy, wheeze and was very unsteady. His brother signed him up for the one-on-one training through our MBK Fit program in August 2018. Since then, he has gained flexibility, balance, and has lost 25 pounds and shedding inches. He eats better, is smoking and drinking less and overall feels better. He has more energy and is happy to see his muscles are coming back.
Supporting You & Your Wellness Goals
Results like these are not uncommon at MBK Senior Living communities. In addition to our dedicated and talented Resident Enrichment Directors, our residents are supported through two crucial signature programs – Mind+Body and MBK Fit. Both are geared toward helping our residents flourish on their journey to emotional and physical wellness. Mind+Body wellness was designed to meet the specific preferences and needs of the residents, and present them with daily opportunities to experience joy, meaning and a sense of purpose. Each community has a diverse and evolving wellness calendar that includes social, educational, physical, spiritual, cultural and continued educational options. And, our MBK Fit program is led by full-time certified personal trainers to help residents achieve their fitness and mobility goals through strength, balance, and agility. Through MBK Fit residents not only feel better, find the support and encouragement they need, they also enjoy greater independence, energy and desire to engage in other activities and outings. To learn more about MBK Senior Living’s resident enrichment programming or to tour a community near you, call click here.
