Promoting an Active Social Life
What’s Needed in Community
People are healthier and happier when they can actively participate in physical recreation, creative arts, and social activities. Recreation activities help older adults remain physically fit and improves balance, joint flexibility, agility and mobility. Leisure activities, especially new experiences, can boost cognitive functions and increase alertness, problem-solving skills, and stimulus for the brain. Theses activities can also help reduce stress and elevate moods. Social recreation with others is especially impactful, as increased social connections keep feelings of isolation and loneliness at bay. Group-related activities help people feel part of the community and build relationships and friendships.
What We Are Doing
Partners are creating fun leisure experiences for seniors across Penticton, with a focus on reaching community members facing barriers of isolation, money, transportation, mobility and confidence to participate. Activities have included:
Arts Matters
Enhancing the ability of the Penticton & District Community Arts Council to offer seniors a variety of arts programs, lessons and exhibitions with local artists to help people overcome loneliness and isolation.
Cycling Without Age
Sponsoring a specialized trishaw for Cycling Without Age-Penticton Chapter, so their volunteer pilots can help more seniors get out of their usual residence or nursing home for a bicycle ride and friendly conversation.
Growing Roots
Assisting South Okanagan Immigrant Community Services to provide intergenerational connections and inter-cultural learning through cooking, gardening and technology.
Out & About
Growing the reach of this Seniors Wellness program to provide enriching day programs that enhance social connections and access to physical recreation, creative arts and good nutrition.
City of Penticton
Promoting the work of Penticton’s Recreation Department to provide senior specific programming to enhance physical literacy and wellbeing.
