Groundwork Magazine

Whether one is a student, a parent, or a senior, three main factors contribute to living a healthy lifestyle, these include; eating right, getting sufficient rest, and staying active. Community centers across Markham have plenty of programs and functions designed to help seniors stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

 

The Angus Glen Older Adult’s Club (AGOAC) has an abundance of programs designed to help seniors stay physically fit as well as mentally resilient.

 

President of the AGOAC, Gilbert Tam, detailed the many activities that his club members partake in.

 

“We have a large amount of programs ranging from Pickle Ball, Ping Pong, Mahjong, Tai Chi, line dance, karaoke and badminton.” Tam said. “All our members are encouraged to join as many activities as they can.”

 

Tam stated that when club membership peaked at over 300, the City decided to have them manage all the older adult activities. Thus, they became distinct from the City of Markham and the AGOAC became its own entity.

 

In order to cater to this growing club, Tam stated that there are activities everyday across the city.

 

“Basically we have programs running everyday at all the community centers across Markham.” Tam explained. “We might have pickle ball at Cornell, while badminton is happening at Angus Glen.”

 

Pickle Ball has been a rapidly growing sport for seniors. An executive of the Pickle Ball club, Edwin Maryven explained the concept of the game.

 

“Pickle Ball is a combination of tennis, ping pong and badminton.” Maryven explained. “Those that have a background or experience in those sports, tend to gravitate towards Pickle Ball and pick it up much quicker.”

 

Maryven said that he plays Pickle Ball around four times a week and it not only helps him stay physically fit, it also helps him socialize with the other seniors.

 

“I used to work quite often in the mall, but playing Pickle Ball has helped me stay fit and mentally sharp.” Maryven stated. “We do more than play Pickle Ball, we go out for dinner or lunch sometimes after games. And after tournaments we all get together to socialize and enjoy each other’s company.”

 

Badminton participant Adam Poon explained to me the importance of playing sports as an older adult.

 

“[For me] its not so much an improvement [in health] but avoiding a decrease.” Poon laughed off. “To maintain, is the number one issue. Less dependence on drugs and medical plans. Something that all adults, even you, should come out for.”

 

“Even for teens exercise just isn’t enough. According to statistics, an hour a day or 45 minutes [of physical activity], I find just isn’t enough for me.” Poon reiterated. “For all ages, from seniors, older adults to teens, we all need to stay active.”

 

Aside from playing sports and being physically active, programs such as Mahjong and Tai Chi have been known to play a fundamental role in preventing neurological degenerative disorders.

 

According to Taiwan Today, playing the traditional Chinese game, known as Mahjong has helped seniors and older adults combat Alzheimer’s. A study conducted by Hong Kong’s Next Magazine showcased that seniors with Alzheimer’s who played Mahjong regularly over the span of six months, prevented further deterioration and in some cases, even improved intelligence.

 

Clubs such as AGOAC play a vital role in all communities as they cater to the needs and wants of older adults. They not only help them stay physically active and mentally sharp but they provide them with an outlet to socialize and make new friends.