Adults living healthier lifestyles, focusing on prevention rather
than disease, may maximize their independence through self-empowerment
and lifelong growth.
Bloom!, Presbyterian Villages of Michigan’s
(PVM) wellness program, offers assistance to older adults who reside in PVM
villages and in nearby communities. PVM defines
wellness as a holistic approach to promoting the health of the entire person.
Not only does Bloom! focus
on the physical health of the individual, but also on the mind and spirit with
the goal of improving the quality of life of all participants. There are six
dimensions of wellness in Bloom! including:
Physical* Taking the personal initiative to improve and maintain a healthy
body by participating in regular exercise for strength and cardiovascular
fitness, eating nutritious foods, and practicing proper self-care.
“Many people 90 and older who have been physically frail from inactivity
can more than double their strength though simple exercises in a fairly short
time. For some that can mean the difference between getting up from a chair
by themselves or depending on someone to help them.”
“In one study, some people 80 and older progressed from using walkers
to using canes after doing simple muscle-building exercises for just 10 weeks.” (From
the U.S. National Institute of Health)
* Before beginning any physical exercise program, please obtain consent
from your physician.
Intellectual Keeping a healthy and active mind by attending and participating
in book discussion groups, guest lectures, card games, and creating art.
“In a study of 800 men and women aged 75 and older, those who were
more physically active, more mentally active or more socially engaged had a
lower risk for developing dementia. And those who combined these activities
did even better.” (From the Alzheimer’s Association)
Emotional Learning to approach life with joy, deal with stress and loss, and
build a healthy self-esteem.
“There's a growing body of research suggesting that people with good
emotional health are more likely to follow through on recommended health activities.” (From
a Duke University study)
Spiritual Identifying and strengthening personal values, finding meaning and
purpose in life, and encountering ways to find peace in one’s own life
and with others.
“Some research shows that things such as positive beliefs, comfort
and strength gained from religion, meditation and prayer can contribute to
healing and a sense of well-being. Improving your spiritual health may not
cure an illness, but it may help you feel better, prevent some health problems
and help you cope with illness or death.” (From the American Academy
of Family Physicians)
Vocational Sharing life experience, skills, and time for the benefit of the
community and developing new skills to solve existing challenges and for
personal satisfaction.
“…Literature shows that social support is good for our health.
It is good in our day-to-day activity and it has beneficial effects when we
are experiencing stress. …volunteering contributes to the health, vitality,
self-esteem and longevity of volunteers.”
(From "Volunteering and Healthy Aging: What We Know" by Dr. Neena
Chappell)
Social Celebrating life by interacting with new and old friends at dances,
parties, intergenerational activities, and community events.
“Older adults who get daily social and physical activity -- even for
brief periods -- sleep better and have improved cognition.” (From a Northwestern
University study)
