OCTOBER 4–11, 2021 | ACTIVE AGING WEEK 7
And getting involved doesn't have
to mean travelling far from home – in
Winnipeg, for example, at least nine out
of 10 residents live within two kilometres
of a community centre and less than a
10-minute walk from a park.
"Parks, and a lot of recreation facilities,
are very accessible and are available at
low or no cost, and anybody can walk,
bike, drive or catch a bus to a green space.
Even just to get out and spend some time
enjoying nature can make a difference in
your day and your mood," Ray says.
But even if people feel more comfortable
staying home, there are still opportunities
for engaging in activities.
The last year-and-a-half has proven this,
with many organizations transitioning
to online programming, allowing older
adults to discover new chances to engaged
in activities without barriers that might
have prevented them from joining in
before.
"Over the last little while, people have
been more socially isolated than normal
and have told us that online programs
really helped them get through each day,"
Ray says. "We heard from some who said
they didn't know a park existed, or who
never thought about taking yoga before,
but can now do it online in the comfort
of their own home."
Even though the activity is virtual, it
still has the desired effect, he adds.
"People tell us is makes them feel like
they're part of something. That's great to
hear and shows that the technology still
gives them a sense of community and
connection. It's a great way to combat
loneliness and social isolation."
For help connecting with parks and
recreation resources in your community,
starting a new recreational program,
finding programming resources for older
adults, or a full list of Recreation Manitoba
webinars and training programs, visit
www.recreationmb.ca, email Recreation
Manitoba at info@recreationmb.ca, call
204-925-5747, or find them on social
media.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
Find the answers at:
www.minukdenture.com/crossword
www.MinukDenture.com
204.589.6329
Get the Smile you deserve
Bike riding is a low-impact
activity that gets you outside,
and helps keep the heart and
muscles strong.
- photo courtesy of Active
Aging In Manitoba
