To the editor:
Staying socially engaged later in life is a powerful protective factor for health, independence and overall happiness. Seniors who are active, volunteer and are connected to others manage stress better and show lower rates of cognitive decline.
Santiva Islanders is a volunteer-run, non-profit organization that provides recreational, wellness and educational activities for free or minimal costs. They operate on a shoestring without any city or county funding.
Almost 200 people attend cardio and strength weekly workouts led by beloved instructor Mahnaz Bassiri, an island icon. I’ve been a faithful workout attendee for 10-plus years and have made many friends from the class. Brown bag lunches, Bingo, walking groups, restaurant outings, bridge and Mahjong are some of the other activities to keep minds sharp and bodies active.
Quality of life improves when we get up and get out. Santiva Islanders provides well-rounded and free opportunities to do just that. Friendships are forged, isolation diminishes and happiness is on the uptick.
Years ago the city of Sanibel provided support for this program when it was called “Island Seniors.” That dried up. Volunteers scrambled to resurrect the program and renamed it the Santiva Islanders, but without any city support. With city support, the program could have stability and a permanent place to call home.
Terry J. Dorr
Milwaukee, Wisconsin