How Assisted Living Communities Are Making Moves Toward Inclusivity
**How Assisted Living Communities Are Stepping Up for Inclusivity**
Assisted living communities are transforming into spaces where everyone feels welcome, regardless of background or ability. From cultural celebrations to tailored activities, here’s how they’re breaking barriers and fostering belonging.
**Celebrating Diversity Through Partnerships**
Communities like Arete Living are teaming up with organizations such as Pride Northwest and the Alzheimer’s Association to support residents’ identities and needs[1]. They provide shopping kits for cultural observances, making it easy for staff to decorate communal areas in ways that honor holidays like Juneteenth or Diwali. This ensures residents see their traditions reflected in daily life[1].
Brookdale Senior Living has raised over $23 million since 2008 for Alzheimer’s research through its Walk to End Alzheimer’s teams, with recent donations topping $1.9 million in just 18 months[1]. These efforts show how large-scale initiatives can unite residents, families, and staff around a shared purpose.
**Activities That Leave No One Out**
For those with limited mobility, communities are getting creative: chair yoga sessions let everyone join exercise classes without standing[4], while audiobook clubs spark discussions without requiring physical stamina[4]. Sensory activities—like potting plants or aromatherapy—engage touch and smell rather than movement[4].
Group cooking classes and themed parties (think “Tropical Luau Night”) encourage teamwork across different ability levels[4]. Volunteers also collaborate on projects like assembling care packages for local shelters, blending social interaction with community service[4][5].
**Personalized Care That Respects Independence**
All-inclusive facilities now prioritize autonomy by tailoring support to individual needs. For example, caregivers might assist with medication management while encouraging residents to choose their daily schedules or hobbies[5]. Social events—from art workshops to gardening clubs—are designed around resident interests rather than a one-size-fits-all approach[3][5].
By combining intentional programming with partnerships that reflect diverse identities, assisted living communities are proving inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of meaningful care.
