What Programs Are Included in a Senior Living Activity Calendar?
One of the keys to senior wellbeing is varied activities that combine recreation with intellectual stimulation.
Choosing the right senior living community goes far beyond floor plans and fine dining. A thoughtfully designed senior living activity calendar is one of the most telling indicators of resident wellbeing—signaling a community’s commitment to wellness and a lifestyle filled with purpose, enrichment and connection.
Nestled in Fairfield County, just minutes from Greenwich and a short trip to New York City, Edgehill is an award-winning continuing care retirement community (CCRC) that exemplifies this approach. With an abundance of opportunities for learning, fitness and the arts, Edgehill’s robust senior living activity calendar offers a glimpse into what an elevated independent lifestyle can look like.
The Value of an Activity Calendar
A well-rounded senior living activity calendar supports more than entertainment. It fosters independence, encourages movement, promotes mental agility and deepens social connections. When evaluating calendars, the key is not how full they are—but how purposeful.
At Edgehill, activities are designed to reflect resident interests while providing opportunities for personal growth. Whether attending a morning yoga class, joining a literature discussion or engaging in spirited games, residents should shape their days based on personal preferences and passions.
Personalized Programming Guided by Resident Interests
Exceptional programming begins with understanding what matters most to residents. Edgehill’s Lifestyle Director Sandi Kornblum leads this effort—curating a calendar shaped not only by expertise, but by ongoing conversations with the people who live here.
Sandi and her team take the time to learn each resident’s interests, passions and aspirations. This allows for personalized offerings that reflect the community’s evolving preferences—from coordinating a trip to a local gallery to arranging a virtual concert with a grandchild.
Edgehill’s programming is not one-size-fits-all. It is thoughtfully designed to enhance each individual’s experience—bringing greater purpose, connection and enjoyment to every day.
Activities at Edgehill
Edgehill offers a comprehensive calendar with a range of programs. Weekly highlights may include:
- Water aerobics and arthritis mobility classes in the indoor heated pool
- Course lectures and documentary screenings with discussions
- Classical and jazz concerts
- Book clubs and short story discussions
- Stitch & Chat group
- Fitness programs including cardio, agility and Pilates
- Art classes and pop-up exhibits
- Friday Happy Hours
- Private performances by local theaters and ballet companies such as The Connecticut Ballet.
- Outings to local destinations including the Bruce Museum, Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens in Stamford and cultural events in New York City
The Dimensions of Purposeful Programming
When examining a senior living activity calendar, consider how the offerings align with the six dimensions of wellness as defined by the National Wellness Institute: intellectual, social, physical, emotional, purposeful and spiritual. Edgehill’s programming is structured to address each of these areas:
- Intellectual: Educational lectures, book discussions and curated film screenings
- Social: Ice cream socials, pub nights, game groups and themed parties
- Physical: Water aerobics, strength and balance classes and walking groups
- Emotional: Creative arts, musical and ballet performances
- Purposeful: Opportunities to lead committees and volunteer
- Spiritual: Religious services, meditation and inspirational programming
Specialized Programming in Memory Care
Edgehill’s commitment to meaningful engagement extends to residents in our Mind & Memory Care neighborhood. Led by certified dementia practitioners, the program offers a full slate of daily activities tailored to each resident’s needs, interests and abilities.
Residents enjoy flexible, thoughtfully designed activities that support cognitive function, emotional wellness and social connection. Programs include:
- Journey stations, treasure chests and memory boxes to spark recognition and reminiscence.
- Cognitive exercises tailored to individual abilities.
- Creative and engaging favorites like Jazzercise, meditated stretch, gardening and science & history discussions.
- Community-building opportunities such as poetry in local schools and volunteer programs.
By honoring the individual and fostering moments of joy, Edgehill’s Mind & Memory Care programming brings structure and stimulation to every day.
Questions to Ask When Evaluating a Community
When reviewing a senior living activity calendar, ask the following:
- Are there consistent opportunities for physical activity suited to varying mobility levels?
- Do programs offer intellectual stimulation and creative engagement?
- Is there space for residents to connect with others who share their interests?
- Are there events designed to include family members and grandchildren?
- Can activities be personalized to reflect individual goals or aspirations?
Why a Thoughtful Activity Calendar Matters
An engaging, intentional calendar is a reflection of a community’s values. It signals respect for residents’ time, talents and individuality. It also provides reassurance—for both residents and their families—that life at the community will be rich, rewarding and fulfilling.
At Edgehill, this promise is realized every day. Residents enjoy a dynamic lifestyle supported by attentive associates, elegant amenities and proximity to world-class cultural opportunities.
If you are exploring Independent Living with a view toward the future, consider how a senior living activity calendar reflects the quality of life your loved one—or you—can expect.