It’s no surprise that many aspects of our daily lives have temporarily changed due to the pandemic and the Public Health restrictions put in place to keep us all safe. However, many changes have had an unwelcome impact our overall sense of security and wellbeing, making many feel like life is on hold until the majority of Canadians are vaccinated.

Though these changes have also affected older adults calling retirement residences home, they aren’t facing the same insecurities that some seniors living at home alone are right now.

Here are three areas of life that may improve for you or a loved one if you move into a retirement residence right now:

Your emotional security

For some, the pandemic has had a profound impact on their mental health, sense of freedom and even self-esteem. This could be for a variety of reasons, including the inability to travel, see friends and family, the cancellation or postponement of important life experiences like weddings and anniversaries, or even having to wait to see a newborn family member. More broadly, uncertainty about the future and when life will return to normal can affect levels of optimism and induce anxiety or depressive feelings.

One way life in a retirement residence can help bolster your sense of emotional security is that the lifestyle provides safe daily opportunities for purposeful activities and connection with others, which many are missing right now while living home alone. Even though some activities—such as large group activities or outings—may be scaled back right now depending on the region, there are still things to do each day that provides a sense of routine, structure and positivity. And if you’re having a particularly difficult day? You’re living in a community of friends and trusted staff who are there to reassure you that everything with be alright.

Your social security

With the inability to see groups of friends and family right now, and important holidays or traditions postponed, our social health—including connecting with new people, nurturing friendships and physical intimacy like hugging and kissing—has taken a hit over the past year.

Though retirement residents have also experienced less time with family and friends living outside of their communities, they still experience safe opportunities to socialize with fellow residents and staff daily, whether during meals, activities or simply riding the elevator together! Having those daily touchpoints has helped residents to remain resilient, upbeat and socially engaged through a trying time.

Your physical security

For some seniors, the pandemic has caused a great deal of anxiety for their physical safety. Some people feel nervous going out grocery shopping or to pick up medications, should they be exposed to the virus; others are struggling to manage everything at home, like cooking or cleaning, as family caregivers are avoiding coming over for fear of getting them sick; and for individuals bringing in third-party care services, there is the worry that someone may not show up due to unforeseen pandemic circumstances.

In a senior living residence, older adults don’t have to worry that they will go without the important services they come to rely upon. Chartwell staff have been consistent in their service delivery of delicious and nutritious meals and care, and have also adapted activities and social experiences according to Public Health guidance. Residents can live worry-free knowing the staff they come to know and trust can safely provide for their needs, no matter the circumstances.

The majority of Chartwell residences have received or are in the midst of receiving their prioritized vaccinations. Learn more about the lifestyle at Chartwell and our safety measures by visiting chartwell.com.