keeping seniors healthy and active
United Way passionately advocates for healthy aging and invests in programs that enhance the quality of life for older adults.
83-year-old Dan Blum of Monroe can attest to that.
It's hard to believe from his easy camaraderie and fun-loving banter that, not long ago, he was caught in despair after his bride of 59 years passed away.
Without regular companion-
ship, Dan began to realize that not even his WWII Navy training or
more than 30 years of successful business experience could fight
off the despair.
Almost a third of seniors in Snohomish County live alone. Many are isolated and 9% live in poverty. As baby boomers age, helping this significant portion of our population stay healthy and as independent
as possible becomes even more critical.
Fortunately, Dan found the exercise class at East County Senior Center
to be just what the doctor ordered.
"The class meets three times weekly," Dan said, "and I really threw myself into it. Over time it became more than fitness, offering opportunities to build quality friendships and even regain my sense of humor."
Nowadays, Dan is so involved that it’s difficult to distinguish him from staff. His easy camaraderie and fun-loving banter delights everyone from “the guys” in his wood-carving class to visitors. Staff employs his carpentry skills and humble charm in countless volunteer projects ranging from building storage shelves and rounding corners to flipping pancakes and spreading goodwill at the monthly pancake fundraiser.
“I grew a full, white beard to play Santa last Christmas,” Dan chuckled. “Superb! They’ve already asked me back for this year.”
"It's the best thing we do-letting people know that life does go on," Marc Avni, the Center's executive director, explained. "Almost all seniors experience loss, whether a loss of prestige or connections or close family. Senior centers like ours give people an opportunity to feel empowered and regain meaningful lives.”