Fitness Knows No Age
“The right hobby may help to compensate for the loss of a former skill, and it may
provide one of the best means of keeping older people physically and mentally
alert…Besides providing much-needed funds, the sale of an item provides the
individual with evidence that society still feels he can contribute…For a great number
of older adults, the value of a hobby lies in actively demonstrating to themselves that
they are still able to create.”
-- Jerome Kaplan, A Special Program for Older People(University of Minnesota Press),
cited in The Saratogian, 3/20/1955
Who can and should belong?
What does it do?
In an early 1960s welcome brochure, the Center invited centers to a place “where you may just “loaf,” tune in the radio or TV, read, play, games or just relax in company with friends, and to share talents and interests with “those less fortunate.” Over the years, seniors have become more active. Images and articles from the Center’s archives highlight increasing numbers and variety in aerobic activities – from square dancing and billiards to Armchair aerobics, “gentle yoga” and Tai Chi. Performances continue to include singing, but high-kicking dancers also have an opportunity to make an impact.
In addition, social activities from discussions and festive meals on the holidays to sewing, painting, ceramics and other crafts continue to engage seniors five days a week. Fashion shows also highlight seniors’ creativity.
1985 Cabaret
Social activities from discussions and festive meals on the holidays to sewing, painting, ceramics and other crafts
have been a mainstay from the Center’s origins and continue to engage seniors five days a week. Fashion
shows also highlight seniors’ creativity.
Over the years, offerings for seniors have increasingly emphasized keeping physically active. Images and articles from the Center’s archives highlight a variety of aerobic activities – from square dancing and billiards to armchair aerobics, “gentle yoga” and Tai Chi. Performances continue to include singing; high-kicking dancers also have an opportunity to make an impact.
By 2012, it was reported that “[y]oga and ceramics are just a couple of activities at the center that promote mobility, creativity, and socializing” (Center Looks to Senior Health, 2012) http://www.cdseniorspotlight.com/news/2012/jul/19/center-looks-senior-health/