Gatesworth Stories —
A Sense of Belonging
How Senior Living Communities Lessen Loneliness and Foster Connection
Loneliness can often be overlooked, but its impact mental, physical and emotional well-being is profound, especially among older adults. A recent University of Michigan study shed light on the prevalence of loneliness among adults aged 50–80.
According to the research, in 2023, 1 in 3 seniors reported feeling isolated from others and the same ratio reported a lack of companionship. These findings underscore the importance of addressing loneliness through a multifaceted approach.
At The Gatesworth, we recognize the significance of fostering social connections and providing a supportive environment where residents can thrive emotionally and socially. Here, residents can engage in various activities, form meaningful relationships and participate in a vibrant community that celebrates companionship and camaraderie.
Overcoming Loneliness
The testimonial of Kitsy Moore, one of our current residents, reflects the transformative impact of community living on combating loneliness. She shares her journey from experiencing loneliness after the loss of her husband to finding companionship within our community. Reflecting, she states:
“I thought that it would be nice to live six months with my son, and six months with my daughter…but my children had their own lives to live, they had their own trajectories, and I still was terribly lonely, and I craved companionship.
“The Gatesworth image kept coming back. So, I decided to investigate. I picked up the phone, and here I am. I love the camaraderie, the connections with people. I'm suddenly not so lonely anymore."
Kitsy’s story is a testament to the power of human connection and how senior living communities can foster a sense of belonging.
The Gatesworth’s range of physical and intellectual activities — from lecture series and yoga classes to happy hours and cultural outings — enrich the lives of our residents. By prioritizing social engagement and cultivating a sense of community, we strive to create a vibrant and fulfilling environment where seniors can thrive emotionally, socially and physically.
Isolation at home interferes with our very human need to interact with others daily, allowing melancholy to sneak in and rob us of our interest in activities that make us feel connected to the world.
Part of what makes our community special is our commitment to offering a wide array of activities for older adults that are woven into the fabric of our everyday life.
To learn more about the Gatesworth and what sets our community apart, we invite you to come visit us in person. Contact us today to schedule a personal tour or lunch at 314-993-0111.