Seniors often thrive in independent living communities due to increased opportunities to exercise, socialize and participate in active living . Populated by individuals who are committed to living life to the fullest, independent living communities encourage residents to participate in exercise programs and social activities that provide the foundation for a quality retirement lifestyle. You might say that not only are exercise and socializing "the best medicine," they turn the spigot on The Fountain of Youth.

Those considering the move to an independent living community will be interested to learn that the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has focused on the theme "Exercise as Medicine" since 2008. In short, exercise, and the socializing that often accompanies heart, health and wellness activities, is the most potent and side-effect-free medicine available. Exercise positively affects every aspect of the body, mind and, yes, spirit.

Why is exercise such good medicine?

Growing numbers look for exercise and active living programs when evaluating independent living communities. They are aware that exercise serves as preventative medicine by helping to reduce risk factors for heart attacks such as diabetes, elevated blood pressure and high cholesterol. Exercise works as secondary prevention, too. This means that it helps reduce the risk of the next "big one."

Wellness programs offered by independent living communities help residents understand that lowering these risk factors even just a little, boosts their strength and immune systems. For example, in general the body doesn't need to make as much insulin when it is active. As a result, regular exercise increases sensitivity and keeps fat stores at bay to help prevent diabetes.

Exercise also helps reduce the risk of depression. Many independent living communities encourage fun group fitness activities such as heart-healthy walks and aquatic programs, wellness education, dancing, tai chi and yoga. All these activities are good for brain chemistry that helps elicit increased strength, flexibility and feelings of well being.

What kinds of active living programs are available?

Many of today's independent living communities have embraced a wellness  or active living model, inviting residents to take "ownership" of their own goals and well being as well as offering a full range of exercise and socializing opportunities. These industry innovators encourage individuals of every age to seek opportunities to remain productive, contributing members of a community.

These independent living communities search for ways to help people stay mentally and physically independent and active. Communities such as these offer encompassing wellness and life enrichment programs that often include individually designed daily exercise and physical activities, mind, body and spirit classes, lifelong learning and community partners' component.

How do I get going on an exercise program?

One of the best ways to jump on the exercise-as-medicine bandwagon is to look for independent living communities that encourage maximum independence through the support of exercise and socializing. Review the communities' offerings and search for activities that you enjoy.

Also, ask lots of questions. Does the independent living community have a life enrichment/wellness director, on-site physical therapy or rehabilitation services? Does it provide a well-equipped and staffed health & fitness facility and does it offer classes that can positively affect age-related conditions such as arthritis, cancer, heart disease and stroke?