Blog | April 8, 2024
At Lutheran Life Communities, we go beyond mere existence to cultivate a vibrant, grace-filled lifestyle that transcends lifespans, focusing instead on nurturing robust healthspans. Our communities are dedicated to empowering individuals not just to live longer but to live better, embracing a holistic approach that enhances the quality of life across decades.
In this month’s blog, we delve into the transformative concepts of lifespan vs. healthspan, pivotal in today’s discussions on longevity. Discover all four of our communities and learn why we’re not just about adding years to your life, but adding life to your years. Here, a holistic approach intertwines with daily living, empowering residents to flourish physically and mentally.
Traditionally, lifespan has been quantified by the duration of one’s life, overlooking the essence of living well. In contrast, healthspan introduces a qualitative dimension, emphasizing living longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Lifespan, simply put, refers to the length of time an individual lives from birth to death. Focusing solely on the number of years lived fails to capture the quality of life experienced during those years.
On the contrary, healthspan adds a qualitative aspect to longevity. It signifies the period within an individual’s lifespan where they enjoy good health, encompassing physical, emotional, social and mental well-being. This perspective shifts the emphasis from mere longevity to quality of life.
In an interview with Fortune magazine, Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider, an internal medicine specialist, aptly noted, “Healthspan is increasingly being recognized as an important concept because it emphasizes the importance of not only living a long life but also living a healthy and productive life.” Ungerleider founded End Well, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving end-of-life care.
At Lutheran Life Communities, the concept of healthspan is embraced as a guiding principle. Community programs, services and amenities align closely with this new paradigm. Lutheran Life Communities offer a range of initiatives to support residents in achieving and maintaining healthy healthspans. One such initiative is MyVitality, a comprehensive toolkit featuring signature programs grounded in the seven dimensions of wellness identified by the International Council on Active Aging. These endeavors empower residents of all levels to participate in daily activities that promote their health and overall well-being.
Vitality is the essence of life. It is crucial for our overall well-being, providing us with the vigor, resilience and strength to lead purposeful and meaningful lives. Focusing on quality of life, reducing chronic disease and maintaining independence are all essential for a healthy lifespan.
Quality Over Quantity: Prioritizing vitality and wellness throughout life to minimize periods of illness and disability in later stages.
Reducing Chronic Disease Burden: Focusing on preventing or delaying age-related diseases and promoting overall well-being.
Maintaining Independence: Optimizing physical and cognitive functions to enable independent living and active community participation.
Our four communities, Luther Oaks, Lutheran Home, Pleasant View and Wittenberg Village, share the commitment to enhancing every aspect of our residents’ well-being.
Nutrition Revolution: We serve nutritionally rich, delicious meals with seasonal options, fueling body and spirit.
Active Living: From tai chi to strength training, we offer diverse physical activities tailored to all fitness levels.
Mental Agility: Engage in lifelong learning, stimulating discussions and cognitive exercises.
Emotional Wellness: Find peace through our meditation sessions and supportive community network.
Restorative Sleep: Enjoy serene, comfortable living spaces designed for optimal rest.
Stress Relief: Join us for yoga or nature walks to unwind and rejuvenate.
Preventive Care: Regular health screenings and personalized healthcare plans ensure your well-being is always prioritized.
Imagine starting your day with a sunrise yoga session followed by a nutritious breakfast. Later, you could join a workshop on heart health or perhaps venture out on a ‘Taste of the City’ culinary excursion. The choice is yours and there are endless opportunities to learn, grow and connect.
We invite you to explore our Lutheran Life Communities, where every day is a step toward a more vibrant, health-filled future. Join us for a tour, experience a class or simply chat with our residents. Discover how we’re redefining aging, one grace-filled journey at a time.
Each of our communities are one of a kind with their own unique personalities, strengths, programs, neighborhoods and specific appeal. Once you’ve narrowed down your search to the area that appeals to you, please reach out to us to schedule a tour.
