Scarborough organizations help seniors stay active during winter months.
Seniors take part in a tai chi class at the Port Union Recreation Centre Tuesday morning. Scarborough has numerous activities to keep seniors active and social during the winter months. (Jan. 24, 2012)
Staff photo/NICK PERRY
The cold and dark days of winter can make anyone feel a little down so it's important to get out and stay active.
This is particularly important for seniors and there are many programs in Scarborough geared to them.
"It is extremely important that they have a place to go during the day and it's not just the activity, it's meeting with friends," said Zephine Wailoo.
Wailoo works with the Port Union Seniors in her role as community recreation programmer with the city's Parks, Forestry and Recreation department.
There is programming Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. - everything from aerobics to pottery and euchre to line dancing.
"There are a lot of people who are members here who come once a week," Wailoo said.
The Port Union Seniors are also one of the organizers of the Community Winterfest, which takes place Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Port Union Community Centre and features music, food, children's activities and a bingo marathon.
Kathryn Manion of St. Paul's L'Amoreaux Centre agrees it's important for seniors to stay active, especially in the winter. Often they spend time outside or travelling in good weather, but when winter sets in they can become more isolated.
Being active not only benefits people physically, but also mentally and emotionally.
"We know the social aspects have a huge impact on the way people are feeling," Manion said.
St. Paul's has more than 100 programs each week for seniors ranging from choir to movie nights to exercise classes to dining services.
"We have something for everyone," Manion said.
They even offer programs for seniors who might not be able to leave their homes easily including Meals on Wheels, the friendly visiting program and a transportation program to take them to appointments or social engagements.
"People are genuinely amazed at all that we do," Manion said.
For info on the Port Union Seniors, please call 416-396-4034. For info on the St. Paul's L'Amoreaux Centre, please call 416-493-3333.