Stratford Lakeside Active Adult Association’s annual 55+ Wellness and Multicultural Fair on September 7th was bigger and better than ever. This year’s SLAAA event filled the large 2nd floor conference room of the Stratford Agriplex with close to 50 agencies as well as several craft tables. And the new digs proved to be a popular venue for the large numbers in attendance. In other words, twice as many knowledgeable agencies and twice as many informative speakers, drew twice as many inquiring attendees to this year’s bustling fair.
Speakers included:
o Christy Bannerman: Alzheimer Society of Perth County
o Andrew Hilton: Stratford Grand Trunk Ad-hoc Committee History Presentation
o Katie Muirhead: Ontario Caregivers Association
All presentations hit their mark during the morning session.
SLAAA President Trudy Jonkman and her team of committed volunteers created a well- organized format over the four-hour event. There were numerous opportunities for vigorous discussions, informative exchanges, and follow up to-do lists. Interestingly, it became evident to me that so many people came with their own story to tell or a particular challenge they were facing; aging anecdotes that helped the agencies better understand a particular family situation. Everybody trying to find ways to remain secure, healthy, and active, as they move through their older adult years. At the same time the fair reflected the growing contribution provided by older adults be they 55+ or 75+. Overall, September’s fair made for a healthy outing.
