Finding fulfilling activities that enrich the mind, body, and spirit is essential for seniors to maintain a high quality of life.
At Pegasus Landing of Mesa, we understand the importance of keeping residents active, engaged, and connected through numerous programs for seniors.
If you’re looking for recreational activities, social engagement, or specialized therapeutic programs to manage Alzheimer’s and dementia, Mesa offers a wealth of options adapted just for older adults.
Recreational and Wellness Programs for Seniors
Mesa is home to numerous recreational programs designed specifically for seniors, promoting both physical and mental well-being.
Senior Centers and Community Activities
The Mesa Active Adult Center and Red Mountain Multigenerational Center host diverse senior recreational programs, including art classes, social events, fitness programs, and lifelong learning courses. These centers provide a welcoming environment for older adults to stay engaged with their peers while pursuing hobbies and interests.
Be sure to check out our action-packed activity calendars, too!
Outdoor and Nature Activities
Seniors who delight in the outdoors can take advantage of Mesa’s many parks and walking trails, including the following:
- Riverview Park: Featuring scenic walking trails, shaded seating areas, and a fishing lake, this park is a favorite among seniors looking for a relaxing outdoor experience.
- Red Mountain Park: Has paved walking paths, picnic spots, and open green spaces perfect for light exercise and social gatherings.
- Dobson Ranch Park: A great destination for nature lovers, with well-maintained trails and serene surroundings.
- Pioneer Park: Known for its wide, accessible pathways and historical landmarks, making it an interesting and engaging place for seniors to explore.
- Usery Mountain Regional Park: Contains gentle hiking trails and breathtaking desert scenery, ideal for those who appreciate light adventure.
Guided walking groups and light exercise sessions at local parks are exciting ways to stay active, especially with familiar friends from our community.
Learn more about the outings we’ve enjoyed at Pegasus Landing of Mesa.
Wellness Centers and Physical Therapy
Participating in senior wellness activities can help improve strength, coordination, and overall health. Wellness centers in Mesa, AZ, such as the Banner Health Wellness Center, provide services including physical therapy, balance and mobility exercises, and fitness programs adjusted for seniors.
So do we!
On-site therapy services from Powerback Rehabilitation make a continuum of care so much easier to access. Our seamless services help residents regain or retain their optimal level of independence through physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, respiratory therapy, and wellness services.
Along with the physical and cognitive changes that often go along with the aging process, Powerback helps to treat the following more complex conditions:
- Stroke
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Dementia
- Low vision
- Dysphagia
- Lymphedema
- Post surgical joint replacement
Powerback’s senior rehab program at Pegasus Landing enables seniors to find their strength, do what they love, enhance communication, and so much more.
Therapeutic Programs for Seniors with Alzheimer’s and Dementia
When memory challenges appear, structured Mesa recreational programs for seniors with cognitive impairments present significant benefits. Pegasus Landing of Mesa provides a compassionate, person-centered approach to care that includes memory-enhancing activities and specialized therapies.
What Is Connections?
The community’s Connections program, based on neuroplasticity, was developed by dementia care expert Dr. Sandra Petersen.
We are most excited about the Connect, Move, Learn activity sequence to slow memory loss progression.
Connect
Social connections are vital for mental health. The first step in the program focuses on emotional bonds and relationships. Activities range from spiritual discussions to current events to music appreciation sessions. Reminiscent therapy uses guided discussions using photographs and storytelling so that seniors recall past experiences in a supportive setting.
The objective is to stimulate the brain, creating an emotional connection between residents and team members.
Move
Our second phase focuses on physical movements — especially those that cross the body through yoga, dancing, and balloon volleyball — which help with the left-right shift between the brain’s temporal lobes.
In general, regular physical activity benefits the heart, circulation, and mental health. Exercise has been found to boost proteins in the brain that may help slow decline, even in seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Many local facilities offer physical therapy and wellness programs intended for seniors with memory loss, but our welcoming community specifically focuses on gentle research-backed movements, balance exercises, and relaxation techniques to reduce stress.
Learn
The human brain is incredibly adaptable. The program’s final phase seeks to engage the logical or left side of the brain. Activities in this phase include math exercises, word finds, puzzles, group reading sessions, and creative endeavors.
Studies show that music and art can stimulate memory and encourage emotional expression in individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Local programs, including our music engagement sessions and therapeutic painting classes, help seniors reconnect with memories and find joy in creativity.
Additional Programs for Local Seniors
Mesa offers a variety of programs beyond traditional recreational and therapeutic options, ensuring seniors have opportunities for continued growth and connection.
- Intergenerational programs, such as senior pen pal initiatives and mentorship opportunities with local schools, help bridge the gap between generations while building meaningful relationships.
- Community volunteer programs through organizations like Mesa United Way also give seniors opportunities to give back while staying socially engaged.
- For those interested in expanding their knowledge and technological skills, Mesa offers computer and smartphone classes through libraries and senior centers, helping older adults stay connected with loved ones and navigate the digital world. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Arizona State University and Mesa Community College provide specially-priced courses specifically for seniors, allowing them to explore new subjects and interests.
- Alternative programs — aqua therapy and swimming, tai chi and yoga, and pet therapy, for instance — further enhance overall well-being.
Experience a Fulfilling Lifestyle at Pegasus Landing of Mesa
At Pegasus Landing, we believe that every senior deserves opportunities for growth, connection, and integrative health. Through senior wellness programs, social activities, and specialized memory care services, residents experience enriching lifestyles supported by expert care.
Reach Out to Our Comprehensive Community
If you’re interested in learning more about our programs or exploring options for maintaining your loved one’s wellness, contact us today to schedule a tour.