Active Aging

6 ACTIVE AGING WEEK | SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2023 BY KRISTIN MARAND O ver three days each summer, between 900 and 1000 older adults from across the province gather to partake in more than 20 events at the Manitoba 55+ Games. The events combine social activity, entertainment, and exercise, providing a fun and enriching experience for spectators, volunteers, and participants. This year, the Games run in-person from June 20-22nd in Portage la Prairie and virtually from June 23rd to July 21st. "The Games provide a unique opportunity to stay active, engaged, and socially connected," says event coordinator Karyn Heidrick. "The Games offer a wide range of physical activities and sports that cater to different skill levels and interests, allowing participants to challenge themselves and try new things." They also provide something else, she adds. "They promote community and camaraderie among participants. The Games foster friendships and social connections that can be especially important for older adults at risk of social isolation." Vic Savage has been involved with the Games since he retired in 1996. He first participated in curling and five- pin bowling and took on more activities over the years, including carpet bowling, f loor shuff leboard and arts and crafts. He was also involved in planning as a past president and regional representative of the Manitoba 55+ Games. Savage has many fond memories of travelling, homestays in host communities, hosting visiting athletes and even representing Manitoba nationally at the Canada 55+ Games. "Seniors are seniors no matter where they are. They want to keep active and do things like this," he says. "It keeps you active and doing something. That's what the Games are for, to keep you involved." Staying active helps those over 55 stay young mentally and physically, says Savage. "When your mind is thinking about activities, you don't have to worry about your age and your abilities. Continue to participate, because as long as you're doing it, you stay active; if you're active, you will live longer. And you also make a lot of friends all over the province." Savage and other long-term participants bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Games. They're eager to share with others, inspiring continued involvement and creating a supportive community. "It's a chance to connect to our community through an event that brings excitement and friendship and inspires healthy living in a fun environment," says Heidrick. "The fact that so many people are long-term participants speaks to the value it brings to those who participate." The longevity of the program and the high number of participants ref lect the Games' ability to adapt and evolve to meet the changing needs and interests of its participants. Floor curling is a prime example. "When it first came to the Games, it was throwing stones by hand on the waxed f loor," Savage recalls. "As people got older, they wanted to do it, but couldn't get down to throw it." Those circumstances led to changes that would allow older participants to continue to compete. "We developed a stick that they could use for curling that can be extended to reach the length you need," he says. "Before, you had to get down on your knees, and it evolved to include these people by giving them cues to use. They even have cues for five-pin bowling now." Heidrick says adding virtual activities, where folks can participate from wherever they are and track their progress online, increases inclusion. People take part through an activity tracking calendar and can submit stories and photos and share their accomplishments. So, choose to experience the Manitoba 55+ games this summer. Come as a spectator, join the 200-plus volunteers, or sign up to participate as an individual or part of a team. A Personal Story LOVE OF THE GAMES: For more information, visit activeagingmb.ca/55plusgames/ Participants attend the Games year after year for both the competition and camaraderie. (Courtesy of Active Aging in Manitoba)

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