Unlocking the Secret to Successful Aging

Belmont Village Senior Living shares keys to a purposeful life

For decades psychologists have been working to unlock the secret to successful aging and determine how to define happiness in the eighth, ninth and even tenth decades of life. But how does one measure the potential for social, intellectual and emotional growth? It turns out that it’s not the sum of individual accomplishments that counts, but rather what one does to successfully maximize lifestyle at each life stage, and in each successive decade.

“People can mistakenly measure success by their living situation, such as living at home versus in an assisted living community, but it is more about embracing a lifestyle that maximizes your best self,” said Beverly Sanborn, MSW, LCSW, gerontologist and vice president of program development for Belmont Village Senior Living. “What is critical for successful aging is being in a safe, social environment. People are happiest in a supportive place where they feel valued and retain a sense of purpose.”

The successful aging philosophy is the framework for Belmont Village’s innovative programming. The company is a recognized leader in therapeutic programs, offering a whole brain fitness lifestyle that engages people at all activity and cognitive levels. Circle of Friends®, a dedicated, seven-daya-week program for residents with mild to moderate memory impairment, is rooted in evidence-based research in collaboration with Baptist Health. More tailored care plans are created for residents with late-stage memory loss, with daily activities at every tier that offer engagement and socialization.

Professionally trained memory coordinators and activity assistants work with each resident to create a personal, “just right” cognitive challenge that helps foster a sense of purpose and well-being, now with new safety standards taken into account.

Research indicates that mental fitness activities, along with a healthy diet and an exercise regimen that includes a combination of aerobics and strength-training, can help to build new neuro-connections in the brain. So physical and memory limitations aside, looking forward and focusing on what can still be done builds a sense of personal peace and happiness, or a positive outlook.

According to Sanborn, physical changes should not become an obstacle for successful aging.

“It’s common to have a chronic condition, but one should not face this alone or remain. in an environment that is isolated or lacks mental stimulation. Look forward, not backward, and you can see how rewarding a positive outlook can be,” said Sanborn.

“We design our activities and

programs with the belief that everyone

has something to contribute”

Beverly Sanborn, MSW, LCWS

Gerontologist and VP, Program Development

Belmont Village Senior Living

Belmont Village Senior Living creates an environment where Fort Lauderdale’s seniors can thrive at every age. At Belmont Village, residents experience unparalleled hospitality in Independent Living, Assisted Living and award-winning Memory Care for Alzheimer’s and dementia. Residents have everything they need at their fingertips—from 24/7 on-site nurses, a salon, premium dining, hospitality, and concierge services.