an introduction to creative aging through the practice of...
TRANSCRIPT
David Barnet1, Jacquie Eales2, the GeriActors & Friends1 Janet Fast2, and Sally Chivers3
1 Drama, University of Alberta, Edmonton AB 2 Human Ecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton AB 3 English Literature, Trent University, Peterborough ON
An introduction to creative aging through the practice of intergenerational theatre with the GeriActors and Friends
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GeriActors & Friends, an intergenerational theatre company in Edmonton
Interdisciplinary researchers at the University of Alberta and Trent University
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Enhanced physical and mental health
Built confidence and self-esteem
Strengthened and diversified social networks
Reduced ageism
“The games we do, the exercises we do, there’s a group focus to it… that’s a way of getting rid of ego by making it a group focus, and…
[Friend]
…there’s such a huge responsibility in accepting someone’s idea and going forward with it… So I think that’s part of how the safe environment comes.”
“Through GeriActors I’ve relearned something I’ve known forever, which is: being accepted is very important. Belonging, being a part of something is very powerful. We all need to belong and have a place.” [GeriActor]
“It’s like a tapestry; we’re always making collages of our ideas and stories. Somehow we are all one.”
[GeriActor]
“We get staid and think that you shouldn’t be silly as we get older, so I think the invitation to be silly is playful and helps me get back to being more open to the joy of the moment.” [GeriActor]
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“When all this is said and done, how do you get it in the hands of the people that need to see this? Because in my
opinion that is what this is all about.“ [GeriActor]
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Acknowledgements:
» Funded by Canadian Institutes for Health Research,
Institute on Aging, in partnership with UK New
Dynamics of Ageing
» Photographs taken by Ryan M. Parker and Jacquie Eales
Contacts:
David Barnet Department of Drama 3-10 Fine Arts Building University of Alberta Edmonton, AB T6G 2N1 [email protected] www.geriactors.ualberta.ca/
Jacquie Eales Department of Human Ecology 3-02 Human Ecology Building University of Alberta Edmonton, AB T6G 2N1 [email protected] www.rapp.ualberta.ca/