SLAAA open house to showcase wellness and multicultural programs

The Stratford Lakeside Active Adults Association’s (SLAAA) annual Open House, Wellness and Multicultural Fair will be held Saturday, Sept. 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Stratford Agriplex Community Hall. Admission is free, and all community members are welcome to attend.

This year’s event will feature 28 wellness and multicultural exhibits, along with interactive displays highlighting the wide range of programs and activities offered through SLAAA for adults aged 55 and older in Stratford.

Attendees will have opportunities to participate in hands-on activities, access expert resources, and meet new people in a welcoming environment.

“As you age, socialization becomes more important,” said Trudy Jonkman, SLAAA board member. “We're really trying to focus on the social aspect within SLAAA by combining that with physical activity like pickleball, line dancing, tai chi and shuffleboard.”

This year’s guest speaker will be Dr. Jean Hewitt speaking at 10:30 a.m. on “Aging with Optimism.”  Hewitt is a “Super Ager,” identified by the University of Chicago’s Healthy Aging and Alzheimer's Research Care Center.

“It is with great anticipation that we look forward to Dr. Hewitt,” said Jonkman. “At 85 years of age, Dr. Hewitt is going strong.  Initiating the Aging Wisely - Stratford Third Age Learning she, with others, are putting into action lifelong learning.”

A total of 44 exhibits will be available. Exhibitors include the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth, Wellspring Stratford, the Stratford Police Service and the local Walking Soccer Club. Booths will also showcase the variety of activities offered through SLAAA.

Jonkman said this year’s “Aging with Optimism” theme is a celebration of vitality, inclusion and lifelong learning for older adults in the community.

“Last year, with a New Horizons grant, we were able to increase the multicultural aspect,” she said. “We want to engage all locals to come out and see what SLAAA has to offer, and we want to attract people who are new to the area to come to the event as well.”

The Stratford Lakeside Active Adults Association (for individuals aged 55 and above) provides opportunities for participation in activities, services and special events. Its mission is to promote enjoyment, wellness, connection and accessibility for all.

“We are trying to be as open and accessible as possible to everyone in Stratford,” Jonkman said. “We hope to have something for everyone.”