Simple sensory breaks can help seniors in Roanoke, VA, feel calmer in the moment. In communities like Terrabella Pheasant Ridge, these everyday experiences can support mood and attention by engaging sensory and memory pathways that change with aging.
Slowing down to appreciate sensory inputs helps seniors feel less anxious and more grounded. Science shows that these small sensory moments induce tranquility and mental clarity, stimulating neuroplasticity to improve mood, boost wellness, and encourage a resilient, healthy state of mind.
As we grow older, our eyes become less focused, sounds are dulled, and our touch becomes less sensitive. We start to appreciate the simple sensations more. Slowing down and appreciating the inputs from our senses can help seniors feel calm and relaxed.
The science backs up these ideas; for instance, the Cleveland Clinic states that taking small sensory moments can induce calm and make the brain function more clearly. Let's explore in more detail how enrichment through the senses can improve mood and boost wellness in seniors.
As we age, the connections between brain regions weaken. It's the opposite of how the brain functions in youth, when the brain works overtime to forge an intricate network of connections, allowing kids and young adults to effortlessly learn new concepts and grasp new ideas.
According to Matt Puderbaugh and Prabhu D. Emmady, the process of creating brain circuitry is called neuroplasticity, and while the brain is highly adaptable and quick to form new connections in youth, it slows down in old age. However, humans have a lifelong ability to create new memories and grasp new ideas.
One of the best ways to enhance the neuroplasticity of an older brain is through appropriate sensory experiences. By embracing certain sensory moments and activating the senses, it wakes up the neural pathways, facilitating learning and resilience. For example, the following activities help stimulate brain activity and offer sensory enrichment:
These are simple sensory moments with far-reaching benefits. While they help improve cognitive function, they also increase overall sense of wellness by boosting mood and lowering stress and anxiety. As stated by the Mayo Clinic, sensory experiences can spark positive memories and promote relaxation.
Seniors who feel overwhelmed or anxious might try taking part in an outdoor hobby club, taking a walk in nature, or getting involved in a music or dance class. Even something as simple as taking a short ten-minute break to listen to a few of your favorite tunes can totally change your state of mind and boost attention and mood.
Staff at senior living communities like Terrabella Pheasant Ridge witness these benefits firsthand. That's why they always encourage seniors who are in a state of distress to take part in a short sensory break to help reset the mind.
A big part of modern memory care is sensory stimulation. Engaging the five senses activates the parts of the brain that tend to stay active even as Alzheimer's or dementia gets worse. When short-term memory, language, and complex thinking get harder, familiar sensory experiences can still spark enduring emotional responses.
A nostalgic song or a memorable scent can immediately create a sense of comfort and recognition. These cues connect directly to areas of the brain linked to emotion and memory, helping seniors reconnect with positive feelings and personal experiences that might be unreachable through conversation or recall.
It's not just about bringing back cherished memories; sensory engagement helps residents feel calm and connected with the present moment.
In senior communities like Terrabella Pheasant Ridge, sensory experiences allow seniors to reconnect with their identity and stay connected with the world around them, making them a key part of contemporary memory care.
Yes, the sensory experiences described here are simple and accessible, but seniors can learn advanced techniques like mindfulness that build on these principles.
Here are the fundamentals of how mindfulness works:
For seniors facing health problems and worries about retirement, mindfulness can be an effective way to cope. Many senior communities offer introductory workshops that teach seniors the basic principles.
As you can see, simple sensory movements can improve brain function by waking up the brain and promoting neuroplasticity. They can also improve wellness by improving mood and minimizing stress and anxiety. Here at Terrabella Pheasant Ridge, we use sensory techniques to help our residents live a fulfilling and relaxing lifestyle.
We also facilitate senior wellness with our varied and engaging amenities. For example, we offer a professional beauty salon and barbershop, which offers a quiet, relaxing sensory experience that also boosts confidence. You can see these and many more by booking a tour.
If you're interested, contact us today, and we'll discuss a potential date and address any questions about our Roanoke senior living community that you have.