Boston's Age Strong Commission expands senior programming
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The longtime friends, who live in the neighborhood, participate in the programming any chance they get, with some of their favorites being Broadway dancing class and aerobics. They began attending events after the Covid-19 pandemic as a way to get out of the house and physically strengthen themselves, as well as strengthen their minds and foster new friendships. They all agree: The programming is 'life changing.'
Boston's
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Demand has been high, and since January, five new satellite locations for seniors opened at community centers to help meet it.
The extra day of programming at the Elks Lodge , adding Wednesdays to their previous Tuesday/Thursday schedule, is the final satellite expansion the commission has planned for this year. It is in partnership with
Wu was at the Elks Lodge to help kick off the celebration, as were Age Strong's commissioner, Emily Shea, City Councilors Benjamin Weber and Erin Murphy, state Representatives Rob Consalvo and William McGregor, and state Senator Michael Rush.
'For Boston to be a home for everyone, it needs to be a home for every generation,' Wu told a Globe reporter after her speech to the West Roxbury seniors.
Mayor Michelle Wu has her picture made with daughter Mira and Age Strong programming attendee Corinne Balsamo.
Craig F. Walker/Globe Staff
In her
Offerings at each location,
Shea said, are designed for a neighborhood's specific needs, whether that be activities in Spanish and Creole or simply more frequent activities.
'It's so important because each neighborhood is so different,' Shea said.
The commission hosts a variety of drop-in classes throughout the week at these new locations. Participants can enjoy physical activities such as chair yoga and ballroom dancing, and creative activities such as watercolor painting and jewelry making. Participants just looking for good conversation and company can enjoy snacks, coffee, and board games throughout the day.
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The programming also includes classes with field trips. One of Lyons's favorite memories is of a rowing class she and her two friends took together, which ended with an excursion: rowing on the Charles River. 'It's something I always wanted to do,' Lyons said.
Corinne Balsamo joins the gentle pilates class.
Craig F. Walker/Globe Staff
Shea cites Age Strong's programming as one the city's efforts to decrease social isolation in its elderly population. The
'It's healing in mind, body, and spirit,' Giacalone said. She described how the regular group at the Elks Lodge looks out for one another, from celebrating birthdays to checking on friends who have missed a few classes to helping those who can no longer attend.
'The place is beyond friendship,' Lyons chimed in. 'It's family.'
Isabella Bernstein can be reached at
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