A new inter- generational program, Fitness Links, recently brought seniors from the Victoria Park Seniors Centre and grade seven students from JD Hogarth Public School together to foster understanding and friendship between generations.
“Students interacted with the seniors in several different ‘modified’ fitness classes, with a focus on fun, physical activity, recreation, healthy eating and mental health promotion,” said program facilitator Nora Zylstra-Savage.
“These activities assisted in understanding ageism and stereotypes, reducing the discrimination surrounding the young and old in the community.”
Activities included Pilates, tai chi, chair yoga and line dancing. Then the groups share a healthy snack and discussions about issues relevant to both groups.
“It was great to see how sharp our grade sevens are,” said senior participant Bob Miller, who said current issues of bullying and teen suicide were some of the topics shared.
“It wasn’t all lighthearted. We had serious discussions about politics and things,” Miller said. “It was interesting to see how the students felt about that.”
Teacher Tara Bilton said the experience helped change the students’ views on aging.
“I think it opened the kid’s eyes to ending stereotypes and bridging the gap. It’s breaking down walls between seniors and students,” said Bilton.
Jackie Roulston, a French immersion student, said she enjoyed the program.
“We got to meet new people and it was interesting to hear about the seniors’ pasts,” Roulston said.
Kathy Morgan, supervisor of Senior Services with the Township of Centre Wellington, said the fitness element of the program had a dual purpose.
“It’s to dispel stereotypes students have of seniors and the other way around,” Morgan said. “It ends the notion the seniors aren’t active, in or out of retirement homes.”
Morgan credits the support of a New Horizons grant for helping to make the program happen.
