SPOTSWOOD–Covering topics ranging from relationships to hope, the Spotswood Office on Aging and Senior Center will be the host to a weekly “In Your Own Words” discussion group for its members.
“We start with a general philosophical concept or question, ask for responses and let the conversation take its natural course. We don’t necessarily have to stay on topic as long as everyone is getting a chance to contribute. I always have follow up questions to the original concept which can bring us back if needed,” Director Donna Faulkenberry said.
The discussion group is held from 1-2 p.m. every Tuesday at the Senior Center, located at 1 Arlington Ave., Suite 401.
Faulkenberry said the group was actually inspired by a similar group held at the East Brunswick Department on Aging, where she used to work, led by Assistant Director Sharon Reilly Marosy. She said she loved the concept so much, she knew it was something she wanted to implement in Spotswood.
“I think that conversation and social interaction are some of the greatest joys of life and so important for our well-being,” Faulkenberry said. “As we age, many of us lose the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions. Children grow up and move on, we suffer losses of family and friends, our social circles get smaller, etc. It can be very isolating. My goal was to give our seniors another outlet to get together and discuss and share ideas and opinions.”
Since the discussion group began in March, Faulkenberry said she and Administrative Assistant/Program Coordinator Beth Blatt have chosen the topics for discussion.
“I do a lot of Google searches. I also subscribe to motivational email website newsletters, read a lot of articles and look for thought-provoking topics in everyday life, including these discussions. There’s endless inspiration out there,” Faulkenberry said.
Faulkenberry said one of her favorite topics that was discussed was relationships.
“The questions were ‘name a family relationship in your life that has changed you and how’ and ‘name a non-relative relationship that has changed you and how.’ The discussion that ensued was fascinating and gave insight into the personal stories of the participants and what has contributed to the people they are now,” she said.
Faulkenberry said another topic that was discussed was about hope, where attendees were asked, What have you done to bring hope to others? Who has brought hope to you? What do you hope for in the future?
“Both topics evoked memories, gave people a chance to reflect on their lives, appreciate the present and look to the future,” she said.
“Anyone looking to reflect, contemplate, learn from/about others and socialize in a relaxed, non-judgmental setting would find a warm and welcoming place to do that here,” Faulkenberry said.
For more information, visit www.spotswoodboro.com/officeonagingpage36.html or call 732-251-3432.
Contact Vashti Harris at vharris@newspapermediagroup.com.
