» Facility Profile


West Vancouver Seniors’ Activity Centre


Niche programming, dedicated staff and a multitude of volunteers create a unique environment for seniors


BY TIFFANY MOFFATT


“Life is not merely being alive, but being well.” Marcus Valerius Martialis


For members of the West Vancouver Seniors’ Activity Centre, this quote is the mantra by which they approach not just their physical well-being, but also their social, intellectual and emo- tional health.


Combating loneliness Loneliness, now recognized as a cor- nerstone to overall health, has become a major global issue. The U.K. appoint- ed a minister of loneliness in 2018, and Germany followed suit after health expert Karl Lauterbach declared that “loneliness is as bad for the health of people over 60 as smoking.” Sales, marketing and financial data


are important in measuring the facil- ity’s success. But they take a back seat to markers that determine whether


26 Fitness Business Canada Spring 2019


our programs engage community, build connections and include a social component. “Our barometer of success is differ-


ent from the typical health club,” says the facility’s recreational supervisor Davida Witala. “We look at whether our programs support the loneliness factor. Are we building connections amongst our members, and do our pro- grams have a social component?”


A home away from home With this in mind, the Seniors’ Centre has masterfully created a second home for seniors where they enjoy a friendly ambiance and energy, feel comfortable voicing their opinions and spend time with friends. “We’re mindful of creating a space


that is warm, welcoming and vibrant, and we’re always working to create new ways to enhance their experi- ence,” says Witala. The Seniors’ Centre relies on lo-


cal government, along with donations and grants, to fund its operation. An


advisory board oversees various di- visions, including finance, programs, cafeteria, communications, conflict resolution, gardening, and its highly- profitable SACS on 21st gift shop that resells gently used donated items.


Ahead of the crowd The West Vancouver Seniors’ Activity Centre was well ahead of the curve when it opened its doors in 1981. Thirty-eight years later, it is still lead- ing the charge with innovative pro- gramming for older adults. Take the Fit Fellas program, for ex-


ample. This vigorous group of 190 men, 60-80 years of age, formed before the Seniors’ Centre opened to address the lack of male participation in fitness classes. Today its members partake in daily classes at the West Vancouver Community Centre (adjacent to the Seniors’ Centre) and meet for coffee and cinnamon buns after class. Their high level of exercise adher-


ence inspired UBC’s GOAL (Group Based Physical Activity for Older


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