According to the 2020 census, 9.1% of Cambridge’s population is over 65 and the 2021 estimate is at 11.6%. Compounded with the different set of needs, this population demographic often is also faced with challenges of isolation. This has been especially prominent during the pandemic. With the awareness of this trend, we mapped out a plan of program offerings covering topics on informative resources, wellness, and creativity.

The Active Older Adults Lecture and Workshop Series launched with ten workshops focusing on navigating solo and tools for creating plans for aging well. The Wellness for Seniors exercise series welcomed all levels and abilities to join in weekly. We offered Zumba Gold, Low Impact Fitness, Yoga and Tai Chi programs. We offered Creative Aging programs in-person on Poetry Writing, Improv, and Visual Life Storytelling. Each running for eight weeks with participants sharing the enjoyment of the new skill and friends.

Through these workshops and exercise programs participants in our community shared that they have been empowered to make informed decisions. The exercise programs not only have had health benefits, but also inspired participants to get into a good exercise habit, making a big change in their attitude as well as encouraging them to explore new things. The Creative Aging series brought joy to participants where they shared that not only was it fun but has brought meaning to their lives.