The Stratford Library is working to connect seniors, and the Aging with Agility Project is a year-long program that aims to address security and independence for seniors as they age.
“The Stratford Library applied for the federal government's New Horizons for Seniors Program,” said Robyn Godfrey, the adult collections and outreach librarian. “We started programming in the early spring by putting together a team of 55 seniors from the community to act as an advisory team. They gave direction on creating workshops and programming around the theme Aging with Agility.”
The Library has done programming on relationship resilience, learning to use gadgets, physical agility, financial literacy and more. The focus for December will look at spirituality and how it plays an important part in positive aging.
“This doesn't necessarily mean religious,” said Godfrey. “It just means the way that people enrich their lives, nourish their souls, and we will be looking at things like meditation, and creativity. We will be doing a program on global religions but it will look at the traditions and celebrations of many different religions.”
Thanks to the government grant, the programs and workshops have been able to be offered for free. Godfrey says that 40 people came out for a workshop on will and estate planning, and they are hoping strategic partnerships continue to bring people to the library.
“We range somewhere between 16-23 people usually, with some programs or workshops fluctuating in numbers,” she said. “It’s been really fun working with local seniors, and developing the programs they feel are needed in the community. The library has also been collaborating with organizations like the Alzheimer Society, Stratford Police, the Stratford Lakeside Active Adults Association, ONE CARE, and even the Rotary Hospice.”
The December workshops can be found below:
Meditation Basics with Irene Roth, and Labyrinth Walking with Leslie Wright- December 3, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. in the library auditorium
Creative Meditation with Vanessa DeGroot of KindHeArted Studio- December 6, 10:30-11:30 a.m in the library auditorium
The Philosophy of Awe with Dr. Sean Mulrooney- December 7, 2-3 p.m. in the library auditorium
Global Spirituality with Dr. Kate Mulrooney- December 10, 10:30-11:30 a.m in the library auditorium
Sweet Airs that Give Delight with Ann Reynolds- December 6, 13, 20, 2-3 p.m.in the library auditorium
Dec 6: Dances for the Soul
Dec 13: Musical Reflection
Dec 20: Joy, Love, Happiness and Cookies
The library offers an auditorium that is accessible through the main stairs or at the elevator located at the bottom of the St. Andrew Street entrance. Anyone looking to learn more or register can click this link or email Godfrey at [email protected], or phone 519-271-0220, ext. 132.
