Town of Newmarket making older citizens' needs top priority

Seniors enjoyed day of physical fitness, learning demos at active living fair

Thestar.com
March 5, 2016
By Teresa Latchford

Newmarket senior citizens got active at Saturday's active living fair.

Organized by the Town of Newmarket and hosted by the Seniors' meeting place, individuals 55 and over gathered to hear guest speakers, participate in demonstrations and get informed through 25 informational vendors.

"I've learned so much today already," meeting place member Janice Miner said in the vendor hall. "I'm so glad I came because I am getting so much information out of this."

She received tips from the meeting place camera club on how to operate her camera, she picked up information on pre-planning a funeral and learned that she could be getting a discount on her insurance.

In the next room, seniors participated in a host of active demonstrations, including gentle yoga, Zumba, Pilates and Tia Chi.

Down the hall, others listened to guest speakers and experts speak on such issues as Consumer Protection Ontario, Alzheimer's Society of York Region and the Ministry of Finance.

Organizer Jason Malone, who is also a recreation planner with the town, pointed out that Newmarket has put this age group on its priority list.

"This age group is growing and will soon make up a large part of the town's population," he said. "It is important that we offer them opportunities to be active and maintain a healthy lifestyle."

Last year was the first time Canada saw more people over the age of 65 than the number of those 15 and under, according to Statistics Canada.

The town received funding and grants to help cover the cost of the event and similar events are already being planned for later in the year, he added.

For more information on upcoming events, visit Newmarket.ca/adults55+.