MOOSE JAW — Hundreds of older residents packed the Timothy Eaton Centre recently to learn more about the venue’s many offerings, connect with other people and reduce their loneliness.
The Moose Jaw and District Senior Citizens Association hosted “Let No One Be Alone” on Feb. 13 and encouraged members to “bring a buddy” with them. Throughout the day, people could take a free tour, participate in activities and enjoy free cake and coffee.
The association held the event in conjunction with Age Friendly Moose Jaw, as both organizations have a shared mandate to combat social isolation among older residents.
“We had a full house, so there seems to be a lot of interest in our (centre),” said Dave Pelletier, president of the association.
Pelletier spoke to many people who were interested in becoming members, while several took tours of the venue. Furthermore, he heard from guests that the Eaton Centre is a great place to visit and socialize, which is not always possible at other places.
Some available activities include the walking track, pickleball, card games, exercises, crafts, quilting and line dancing.
The association president was unsure about how many people walked through the doors, but he knew the restaurant was busy during the morning, while every table was full and people cycled through regularly. He expected to learn about total café sales once the day concluded.
“There’s always something happening daily, so it’s a great place to come and socialize and meet some folks and get people out of their homes so they don’t become too closed in … ,” Pelletier said.
“Sometimes when they’re empty-nesters and the kids are gone, perhaps it’s a good place to come and socialize and meet a new group of people and participate in other activities.”
Pelletier pointed out that many studies show how negative loneliness can be while people’s health suffers the more isolated they become; financial pressures can keep people feeling alone. Moreover, it’s not just people over 50 who are lonely, but it’s also younger generations that sometimes feel isolated and friendless.
“So you’ve got to get out and socialize and meet new people and get away from the doldrums and the world that’s closing in around you,” he remarked, noting that the association believes its venue is a great place for people to escape their troubles and improve their mental and physical health.
Pelletier enjoys spending time at the centre since it allows him to talk with others. He noted that people sometimes struggle to find things to do when they retire, so the Eaton Centre offers many opportunities for them.
“And meet old friends you went to high school with, believe it or not,” he laughed. “… and anytime someone wants to beat me at pool, that happens on occasion.”
Membership is $50 per year, while an enhanced membership of $75 includes free access to the fitness centre and discounted activities of $2 per play.
The Eaton Centre is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is closed on the weekends and statutory holidays.
The café is open to the public Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For more information, call 306-694-4223 or visit moosejawseniors.ca.
