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The Benefits of Community in Times of Social Distancing

“Staying active and healthy is a goal all of us have,” says Mike Silverman, Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Pointe, a senior living community offering exceptional lifestyles in the Jewish tradition. “For older adults, staying active physically and mentally is key to living a happy, engaged lifestyle. This can sometimes be hard to do in the winter months, particularly now as we are still social distancing and protecting ourselves from COVID-19.”

Mike says that the 2020 pandemic has shown Residents and families how valuable a community like Heritage Pointe can be for maintaining optimal health and happiness. “Even during the pandemic, we focus on maintaining entertaining and engaging activities,” he says. “We are able to continue to offer fun games, themed programs, brain teasers, and exercise classes through our in-house channel. And we’re continuing to find ways to keep our Residents’ minds and bodies active as 2021 progresses.”

Staying Physically Active 

We all know the important role that physical activity plays in keeping us healthy. However, did you know that reducing your physical activity increases your health risk – especially for older adults? Studies have shown that inactivity can take its toll on your health in as little as two weeks. Fortunately, increasing physical activity is fairly simple, even for older adults who may find it difficult or dangerous to get out of their house or residence.

At Heritage Pointe, Residents have the benefit of exercise and wellness plans that are designed specifically for their needs. Our fitness center provides classes as well as personal trainers. Unlike going to a public gym, our center is on site and only for our Residents. And because our fitness center has been designed with older adults in mind, Residents can exercise with confidence, knowing that everything is tailored to their abilities and fitness levels.

Staying Mentally Engaged 

It’s just as important to keep our minds engaged and active as it is to exercise our bodies. However, this can be difficult to do during social distancing. That’s why Heritage Pointe makes it a priority to keep our Residents doing the things they love and connecting (safely) with others. Lifelong learning keeps minds nimble and engaged, so we continue to offer virtual events for Residents to learn, be entertained, connect and share their thoughts.

Research has shown that engaging the mind, no matter how old we are, helps improve cognitive function, boosts moods, reduces anxiety and depression and can actually help stave off issues such as dementia, diabetes, hypertension and other health problems. While it can be hard to be mentally engaged when living on one’s own (and during social isolation), living at a community like Heritage Pointe allows older adults the opportunity to learn new things and participate in enjoyable activities, all in the comfort of their own “home.”

Staying Emotionally and Spiritually Connected 

“We are, first and foremost, a community rooted in Jewish culture, tradition and values,” says Mike. “To that end, we have continued the important traditions, activities and services our Residents and families have come to cherish. We continue to celebrate our culture and share our traditions in meaningful ways as a way to connect and build bonds – so that even though we are physically distanced, we are not spiritually or emotionally distanced.”

Social connections are yet another important aspect of aging well, and having a strong sense of community – like we have at Heritage Pointe – provides seniors with well-being, happiness and belonging even in times of hardship.

“As of February 15th, the campus has been completely vaccinated. No matter what 2021 will bring, we at Heritage Pointe promise that our Residents will continue to receive the quality lifestyle that they have come to expect,” Mike says. “With our focus on upholding our Jewish culture and values while also providing opportunities for full body wellness to our Residents, we ensure that those who call us home will live the best possible lifestyle.”

ROOTED IN JEWISH TRADITION & CULTURE.

Founded more than 30 years ago, Heritage Pointe provides the highest quality assisted living and memory care to seniors in Orange County. Welcoming to those of all faiths, Heritage Pointe is Orange County’s only community rooted in Jewish culture, tradition and values.

For those who need some level of support to live their best lives, Heritage Pointe inspires independence and wellness through an extraordinary lifestyle, high-quality care and rich traditions. It’s a trusted, joyful community offering a lifestyle filled with possibilities – wherever a Resident may be on their senior living journey.

Our one-of-a-kind, nonprofit community is open to people of all backgrounds and faiths. Our mission is focused on our Residents and their independence, health, safety, comfort and happiness. Heritage Pointe has deep roots in this community and is committed to providing Residents with the best possible lifestyle and care both now and well into the future.

Call for more information at 949.284.8980 or visit our website.