When we get older …

Pictured from left are Murray Pink, Thorndale active living assistant Dayna Barons and Dick Nieuwland at the men’s coffee hour, which promotes conversations as the men chat about current affairs and past experiences, all while making new friendships.

By Nancy Abra

“When I get older … ”

How many times did we say this as young children, or hear it now from kids around us?

“When I get older, I am going to stay up as late as I want. I am not going to eat those yucky vegetables and I will do anything I want.”

Then in adulthood, it is not all that easy to do everything we want. We know those “yucky” veggies are actually good for us. And as for a scheduled bedtime, we need a good night’s sleep to function the next day. And then there are family commitments, economic pressures, demanding careers – just life itself. That childhood statement changes slightly to “when I get older and retire, I will be able to do whatever I want.”

Well, we have made it; we’re retired and those senior golden years are here.

Retirement is a big step and some people struggle with it. Leaving a long-held job or a successful career was a major part of their identity. Children leave and build lives of their own. We have freedom that we have yearned for since we were young. We don’t miss our jobs, but we do miss the people. We feel disconnected, perhaps lost. Some seniors wrestle with this new stage in their lives.

According to Statistics Canada, approximately 8.1 million Canadians are 65 and older, accounting for nearly 20 per cent of Canada’s total population, with people 85 years and older one of the fastest growing age groups. All levels of government recognize the importance of programs that help seniors stay active, involved and rooted in their communities.

The Active Living Program in Thames Centre, coordinated by Karen Gress, is a valuable platform for seniors. Through a provincial grant in 2025, this program was expanded to offer activities for seniors at the Thorndale Lions Community Centre, and its popularity continues to grow.

With it being Seniors Month in Ontario, the theme is “Let’s Get Moving.” Movement isn’t just physical – it’s social, being engaged, staying curious and being connected to community.

“The Active Living Program is important for the wellbeing of seniors,” said Gress. “It provides connection with others of similar age. That develops friendships, which creates a sense of belonging. There are volunteer opportunities that provide a sense of purpose, being part of a team.”

Gress explained exercise classes help improve strength, muscle tone and cardiovascular health, while Yoga and Tai Chi classes promote relaxation, awareness of body and mind, improve balance and strengthen core muscles. There are also opportunities to participate in pickleball, shuffleboard and curling.

Besides being physical, the social opportunities within the Active Living Program such as art classes, weekly afternoons playing euchre, movie afternoons, meal events, planned bus trips and weekly men and women’s coffee hours promote friendships and expand the worlds of seniors.

“We currently have 635 members in Thames Centre,” Gress said, “which give folks the member rate and privileges at both Thorndale and Dorchester centres.”

She praised Dayna Barons, the active living assistant in Thorndale, calling her creative, organized, energetic and passionate about working with the 50-plus community.

Residents of Thorndale looking for a place “to get moving,” be creative and connect with others; this is the program for you.