Generations program engages seniors

Generations at Beaumont – Farmington Hills, a membership program, provides learning opportunities and social events for adults age 50 and older. Monthly gatherings for members range from educational coffee hours to luncheons with entertainment. The program also hosts tours and trips, because according to gerontologists, staying active and socializing improves health. Generations members receive a monthly newsletter mailed to their homes with upcoming events and trips.

“I have such positive things to say about Generations,” said Brenda Evan, 68, of Redford. “I’ve been a member for 12 years. When I was offered early retirement, I knew right away I’d need to find something to do with my time. That same day, I read about this membership program for people like me who are 50 and older. I called to obtain more information and have been going to Generations functions ever since. The variety of activities is exciting! I like the museums, plays, sporting events and going to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. And, I’ve made many new friends on these outings.”

Beaumont Health geriatric specialist Annette Carron, D.O., says there is strong evidence of the importance of older adults actively socializing: “It can enhance quality of life considerably and add years to their lifespan. Joining a program like Generations allows older adults to make new friends, strengthen existing relationships by engaging in activities they love with others who enjoy the same interests and keep their minds sharp. The boost in self-esteem and self-confidence contributes to a positive mental outlook, which can release good hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain. These health-promoting chemicals help the body to fight off illness and disease while making us feel better.”

“The older you get, the harder it is to meet people and make new friends,” says Dorothy Buck, of Farmington. During her 27 years of Generations membership, Buck has found the program fills a big gap for people who find themselves alone. “When I see a new person at one of our events, I introduce myself and try to make her feel comfortable. It’s just a great group. I know a ton of people at each event, and it’s so fun catching up with all of my friends in Generations.”

Buck continues, “It’s a fantastic program. The physicians from Beaumont Hospital — Farmington Hills keep me informed on health issues at the coffee hours. The luncheons are really nice, so informative and entertaining. The monthly Generations newsletter is filled with news about upcoming events and trips; it’s a vibrant and fun read.”

Generations’ upcoming events include a Dec. 7 trip to the Brenda Lee Christmas Show and Soaring Eagle Casino in Mt. Pleasant, a Jan. 19 trip to the Motor City Casino and a Jan. 24 trip to see Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple” at the Purple Rose Theatre and lunch at the Common Grill in Chelsea. Tour bus transportation is included in the trip price.

For membership details, event dates and prices, contact Julie Wagner, Generations coordinator: 248-442-5059 or Julie.Wagner@Beaumont.org.

PHOTO CAPTION: Brenda Evans, 68, of Redford, at a Generations trip in May that included touring Comerica Park and the Detroit Historical Museum as well as lunch at Traffic Jam & Snug.

PHOTO CAPTION: Farmington residents Dorothy Buck and Ginny Buck at a Generations trip in April that included brunch at Sinbad’s Restaurant and the Golden Dragon Acrobats’ show “Cirque Ziva” at the Fox Theatre.