Get them out. Get them doing things.
It's two of the main reasons Seniors Week in Vernon continues to grow in popularity among the city and region's golden agers.
The third annual Seniors Week began Monday, June 2, with an introduction to lawn bowling at the 100-plus-year-old Vernon Lawn Bowling Club in Polson Park complete with free coffee, free snacks, and free tips on the sport from club members.
"We are promoting active living among our gracefully aging community, and this is the kick-off," said Tish Scott of The Silver Citizen, a spokesperson for Seniors Week.
More than two dozen members of the public enjoyed a sunny morning-afternoon at the club trying out lawn bowling, one of a handful of events set for the week.
The Halina Centre, in Vernon's Recreation Complex, is hosting coffee and snacks daily until Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
There's a car show at The Hamlets from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 3, where seniors can enjoy not only classic vehicles, but a classic, free root beer float.
Orchard Valley Retirement Residence will fire up the barbecue Wednesday, June 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. where seniors will receive a complimentary hot dog or hamburger. There will also be live music and entertainment.
It's Movie Night Thursday, June 5, at Parkwood Retirement Resort in Vernon's north end (behind Walmart) as the resort rolls out the red carpet to present the 2011 film The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel with Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Dev Patel, and Tom Wilkinson. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. and there is room at Parkwood for about 40 guests.
Parkwood will be one of the busier locations during Senior Week. Event sponsor Qualicare Home Care will present events June 3, 5 and 6.
A Serenity and Self-Care workshop also takes place at Parkwood at 2 p.m. June 3.
Seniors who like to play the game Mahjong, or those with no previous experience, are invited to the resort June 5 at 10 a.m. And, the next day, June 6, Qualicare will present Creative Connections starting at 10 a.m. The morning will be full of games like Bingo, trivia, and Name That Tune, and there will be a do-it-yourself dress-making and crafts station.
"What we would like to do is get more sponsors and have more events," said Seniors Week spokesperson Diana Williamson. "We want to grow this event and continue to show support to our seniors."
The Seniors Dinner and Dance at the Schubert Centre Friday, June 6, which wraps up the week, is sold out.
Events will be added during the week. Check out the event's to watch for new events.