Local seniors are making new friends at an adult day program that started in Truro last month.
Away For The Day, running at the Wynn Park Villa on Tuesdays and Thursdays, offers clients aged 50 and over activities such as trivia, crosswords and word searches, puzzles, colouring, painting and some light physical activities as well as a chance to socialize. Helping the bonding process is the chance to prepare a home-cooked meal.
“It keeps them from just sitting at home staring at a TV, losing their ability to walk,” said Megan Murphy, recreation co-ordinator with Away For The Day. “We really have the need for it in our community. There is a Victoria Order of Nurses day program, but they have a list that’s over a year long.”
She said one of her clients was a “totally different” person when he showed up for the sessions, laughing and socializing with his new friends, and families of elderly loved ones have also noticed the change, according to Murphy.
It is scientifically proven that socializing and engaging the brain with such activities can ward off dementia and other age-related disorders. While some clients may be showing signs of early dementia, others were simply lonely and isolated before joining Away For The Day.
“It’s very rewarding. It brings such a good feeling to show them there’s still more to life,” said Murphy.
She conducts the bi-weekly sessions with her colleague Jamie Barnett and classes run from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the bottom level of Wynn Park’s building.
To help bring in more people, a free session will be running on Nov. 15 and people should call ahead to book a slot, as Murphy said spaces are filling up fast.
Prices for regular classes are $65 per session. To book a slot and find out more, please call 902-899-6233, visit the Away For The Day Facebook Page or go to awayfortheday.ca.
Away For The Day is holding an open house for prospective clients and their families on Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to noon, 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.
