Discover some favorite social events seniors love in communities — and the types of things you might find on the activity calendar at The Gardens at Springfield — below.

1. Movie Nights

Movie nights are a relaxing way for residents to spend time with each other, and they can be great for shyer or new community members because you don't have to converse a lot.

2. Group Gardening

Group gardening involves residents working together to plant flowers, vegetables or herbs. Many independent or assisted living communities have raised beds or container gardening options, supporting accessibility for a wide range of abilities. Whether you've enjoyed tending plants your entire life or want to develop a green thumb as an older adult, digging into the dirt with others is a great way to spend healthy time outside and meet people in your community.

3. Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts classes and groups let you explore your creative side through painting, drawing and other projects. Communities may offer quilting circles, woodworking classes and painting activities, all of which are great ways to enjoy an existing hobby with friends or learn something new.

4. Exercise Classes

Group fitness events are typically offered to support a wide range of mobility needs. Chair yoga, stretching and strength training, balance sessions, dance and walking are all common group activities in vibrant independent and assisted living communities. Taking part in these types of social activities can help you feel stronger, more energized and more confident.

5. Cooking Classes

Cooking classes or group cooking events let you explore new culinary methods, make seasonal dishes with others or share favorite recipes. You can reminisce about family food and meal traditions and hear stories from others.

6. Day Trips

Outings to museums, shopping centers and local restaurants are popular with older adults. Communities often arrange transportation, guides and other amenities to make day trips convenient and fun.

7. Volunteering

Older adults who want to make a difference in their communities often enjoy the opportunity to volunteer. Doing so as a group can be a rewarding social experience. Common opportunities in independent or assisted living communities include putting together food boxes, making blankets or hats for charity and helping with local events.

8. Family and Intergenerational Gatherings

While making friends with other residents is exciting, seniors also often love the opportunity to mingle with people of all ages or bring their family members into the fun. Communities that offer intergenerational events may provide you with the chance to invite family members to cookouts, game nights or other activities.

9. Quick and Simple Events

Less is often more when it comes to senior socialization. If you're not feeling up to an exercise class or a big social event, the opportunity to sit with a few friends and chat over coffee may still be welcome. Many communities offer easy activities that don't require signing up and let you drop in when you feel up to it. They include trivia nights, coffee or ice cream socials and gatherings in outdoor common spaces.

10. Bible Studies and Devos

Bible studies and devotional times let you join other seniors of faith to read or discuss scripture. Communities might offer volunteers or chaplains to lead such events or encourage residents to step up to orchestrate them.

11. Game Nights

Game nights might include bingo, cards, dominoes or board games that support friendly competition and conversation. Often, staff are available to help explain the rules or adapt games as needed.

12. Music Events

Sing-alongs, concerts and choir practices and programs let you enjoy music with others. Communities often arrange outings to local venues to hear live music.

‍