Thanks to our wonderful City of St. Albert for providing us seniors with so many aquacize times – five different times a day at Fountain Park. The variety of times meets our needs.
I have participated in several and the one I am fond of and have been at in the last number of years is the 8 a.m. class. It would be hard to measure all the good it does. It not only keeps seniors exercising and active but it boosts our self-confidence. It gives us a sense of belonging; an opportunity for safe friendship, it lessens our loneliness and isolation, and provides fellowship. It also is an opportunity to be with others who maybe are experiencing similar pains but don't give up and keep moving those stiff joints and muscles.
Water lifts us up and others present may well lift our spirits. We can be encouraged by others and experience a positive influence to continue to be a water active senior. Some seniors have been coming for years and are anywhere between 50 to over 90 (majority over 60-90). They become unique groups; caring for one another enough to send get well cards and even attend funerals of family members. They become a special support group. They build and foster social and community spirit that might surpass perhaps even other community gatherings.
There is a sense of unity – many come because they love people, want to be with people to share their greetings and smiles and stories in a social atmosphere. It is truly welcoming and life giving. Some may be alone and this is the only outlet they have to talk to someone. Some even like to sing along with the provided music that we grew up with. Can’t get any better.
Oh, forgot to mention, coffee/tea time after at the Skybox, once a month birthday celebrations and Christmas pot luck. Thank you St. Albert for giving us great staff, instructors and pools, and pooling us together in a very positive, wholesome and energizing way.
Barb Riley, St. Albert
