In early February, seniors enjoyed the company of each other and a number of middle school students at the annual Senior Valentine Dance at Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. Oh, and by the way, there were some celebrities on hand to take a spin or two around the dance floor. I have had the pleasure in the past of taking part in this frivolity.
The people who organize this event every year stress that it’s more than just a get-together. The seniors need the socialization that happens when they gather with their peers—and the younger people as well.
Over the years, on the Elderhood Project, we have discovered many things. But one of the most important things we found out is that inter-generational activities benefit everybody.
At the Valentine Dance, there were at least four generations of people laughing, dancing, talking, socializing. If you are fortunate, you have lots of family and friends who are concerned about your welfare on a daily basis. But not everybody is that lucky. That’s why it’s so important for all of us to look after one another. The more generations, the merrier.
Whether it’s Meals on Wheels or any of a hundred other volunteer projects, think about the few minutes you could spend that would make a difference to those seniors who don’t have someone to check in on them.
I want to take a moment to thank everyone who does volunteer, and a special thanks to Percy Ihara and the crew at Generations Magazine for their efforts on behalf of all of us … whatever generation you belong to.
Elderhood Project airs on KHON TV2 Morning News every Thursday at 5:30 a.m. and on the afternoon segment at 5 p.m.—topics range from medical to senior life care and tips. Visit us at www.khon2.com/content/elderhood/default.aspx
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