With the beginning of the 21st Century, where one out of every four people will be over 65, creative aging will become a way of life. Health concerns are an enormous issue for everyone, particularly seniors, their families and the healthcare industry. Stagebridge is one of a very few organizations addressing healthy aging that has a demonstrated track record in community-based healthy aging programs. Through these creative programs Stagebridge takes the lead in helping seniors stay healthy longer by actively participating in the arts.
Stagebridge helps elderly low-income residents reduce their social isolation. Partnering with Satellite Housing, a large HUD housing developer, Stagebridge uses storytelling circles to draw elderly residents out of their self-isolation and to encourage social interaction and new friendships among neighbors.
People are living longer than ever before. By the year 2030, almost one third of Americans will be over 60, twice as many as today. California has the largest population of older adults in America, with the fastest growing segment being people over 85. Many live alone (including half of all older women) and suffer from social isolation. Many live in poverty. The majority has chronic medical conditions. One of California’s greatest challenges is how to help older adults who are living longer maintain good physical and mental health and stay connected to a community, whether it be family, friends or a social network based on residential status.
No Time to Waste
California has the largest population of older adults in America. Many elders live alone – including half of all older women. Many live in poverty. Many have chronic medical conditions. It’s our goal at Stagebridge to help older adults maintain good physical and mental health and stay connected to a community. By giving seniors a creative voice in a culture that devalues aging, Stagebridge has made a vital contribution to one of the most important issues of this century.
Stagebridge Changes Lives!
Senior Classes in Performing Arts
Stagebridge offers groundbreaking programs that invite elders to express themselves through the performing arts within a supportive, energized environment. The Stagebridge curriculum includes classes and workshops in acting, storytelling, comedy, improvisation, musical theater, singing, voice, mime, playback theater and playwriting.
Outreach to the Community
Once students gain confidence in their performance skills, they’re invited to participate in outreach programs to help change lives in their community through:
- nationally respected storytelling programs in inner city schools that connect elders with at-risk youth
- performing arts workshops and musical performances to elders in residential facilities, hospice care, adult day care and senior centers
- new plays and radio programs with senior/intergenerational and community themes for public audiences
- diverse community collaborations in senior care and residential settings that engage the creativity of clients.