Playgrounds For The Young At Heart

We all enjoyed visiting the playground as kids; monkey bars, swings and slides kept us active and through play, we built up our muscles and improved our balance and flexibility.  The same principles are being applied today through multi-generational playgrounds developed specifically for the aging population.

The concept of an outdoor space where older adults can gather for companionship and a little exercise is one that is being adopted worldwide as the over-65 population numbers are anticipated to soar in the next 20 years.

Following a visit to China, where senior wellness parks are popular, Harry Caine, a retired pharmacist worked with the Lions Club and British Columbia government to build a multi-use fitness park.

Grandparents can enjoy outdoor activity with their grandchildren at the Tsawwassen Winskill Park’s wellness facility; the first of its kind in the country.  The park is located close to many senior apartments and was developed with the help of a kinesiology teacher at Langley.  The equipment is designed to endure B.C.’s rainy climate and provide an opportunity for local seniors to stay active while enjoying the outdoors.  Marked walking trails and adjoining garden beds complete the healthy aging park setting.

Following the completion and success of the wellness park, similar facilities have been constructed across the province and throughout the United States.  For a complete list of Seniors’ Community Parks in British Columbia, visit the provincial government website at http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/topic.page?id=4CB15AE752904667BD228D15E888B6AC .