Looking to the future after a year of Flourish
There is much to celebrate as Flourish 55+ Centre moves into its second year of operation.
You will find wellness activities and kinship opportunities in a space that has quickly captured the hearts of many older adults in Bridgewater and beyond.
“No matter what our age, as senior women and men, we must strive to show our compassion, strengths, diversity and value. (The centre is) an asset to all who come to Flourish, seeking relief from COVID, anxiety, loneliness, grief or looking for friendship with a cup of tea and an ear to listen. This is what Flourish means,” says 93-year-old volunteer Barbara Bouton.
Flourish opened its doors for the first time in the former Ben’s Bakery Outlet along the river on Lahave Street in April 2021. Despite quiet times for renovations and pandemic restrictions, Flourish has been steadily developing programs and creating a welcoming space for older adults to gather, learn, enjoy recreation and create.
As a volunteer with Flourish, I see members attend for many reasons. I see them participate in a game of cribbage and share the friendship and laughter that results when people engage in the game. I see them attend yoga and qigong
for health and spiritual benefits or quilting for the art of creativity.
People take part in health and wellness sessions to obtain information and support for issues they might be struggling with or are curious about. Folks come on Saturdays to listen to music and relax. They also come just to have a cup of tea and engage in conversation. For whatever reason, it is all for one basic purpose - to enjoy their best quality of life. I truly believe our mission statement needs to be Flourish 55+ Centre living your best life!
So often when people retire, they are left feeling isolated and no longer needed. This can lead to depression and other health issues. This is so incredibly sad as many have spent decades contributing to others and to their community. Upon retirement, older adults deserve to have their best possible quality of life and Flourish provides that opportunity.
Since the new membership program began in November, membership has risen to more than 70 participants with an active volunteer base of more than 40 dedicated community members. The Facebook page has been active and engaged and there are currently up to 30 members and visitors who come through the doors on a daily basis looking for information, activities and support.
This facility is such a bright ray of sunshine for Bridgewater and all of Lunenburg County.
It is our responsibility to ensure the sun continues to shine bright so that we all continue to flourish. If you are 55+ or supporting an older adult, please drop in. If you’ve already been to Flourish, it’s time to bring a friend.
Flourish is a lovely 2,000 square foot accessible facility with a meeting area, gym, kitchen and two washrooms. It’s located at 678 Lahave St. in Bridgewater.
The centre is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on Wednesday. Thursday hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday is open between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday welcomes guests from noon to 5 p.m. Sundays are closed. Also, the centre offers private community rentals. For more information call 902-5432226.
In closing, I would like to share two of my very favorite quotes: “Your health is your greatest wealth” and “time is your most valuable currency so spend it wisely.”