Books, puzzles loaned to local seniors

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This article was published 27/01/2021 (1734 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Call it a new chapter for a local 55-plus centre that is finding novel ways to reach out to seniors in the community.

The Charleswood 55-Plus Active Living Centre launched a book-delivery service in November after the implementation of code red restrictions.

Community members responded to a call for book donations, resulting in 260 books given to the centre, which is located at 5006 Roblin Blvd. A list of these books, along with brief descriptions, is posted on the “Library” page of the centre’s website at www.charleswoodseniorcentre.org/.
Centre manager Jakee Werbuk said the list is updated weekly with new books. Once people have determined which books they’d like to borrow, they email info@charleswoodseniorcentre.org with their names, addresses and phone numbers.

“There’s something for everyone. We have mystery, biographical, historical, fiction, non-fiction and more. Once books are requested, someone from the centre will be in touch to confirm delivery information and a centre volunteer will leave the books on the person’s front doorstep,” she said.

“In the case of those living in apartments or condos, arrangements are made to deliver the books while adhering to the COVID guidelines. For those who prefer, prearranged contactless pickup at the centre is available.”

The same processes are in place for returns – a volunteer will pick up the books and bring them back to the centre.

In addition to the book-delivery service, a puzzle-borrowing service began in March.

“The puzzle delivery was the idea of our board secretary, Dan Graham, who organized, catalogued and initially delivered all the puzzles,” Werbuk said.

“Over time, the number of puzzles and requests for puzzles grew and has just kept growing, with centre and community members donating puzzles of their own once they have completed them.”

The centre currently has puzzles with 300, 500, 750 and 1,000 pieces, and they’d gladly accept donations of more 300- to 750-piece puzzles.

“There is no return date. Books and puzzles can be kept as long as they are needed to complete.

Typically, these services would be available to centre members only; however, these are not typical times,” Werbuk said.

“Thanks to our volunteers who are willing to make the deliveries, if there are seniors in the Charleswood area who are vulnerable and isolated and in need of something to occupy their time and their minds, we may be able to assist them with a delivery of books or puzzles during the code red restrictions.”

Membership in the Charleswood 55-Plus Active Living Centre costs $30 per year, which provides access to oodles of activities and programs, although many are currently on hold due to the pandemic. However, the book and puzzle services continue to gain momentum, and the centre’s book clubs have gone virtual.

“To say that these are challenging times is an understatement. Older adults are at increased risk for loneliness and social isolation, and puzzles and books are a great way to pass the time and keep our minds sharp, active and entertained during the pandemic,” Werbuk said.

“Who amongst us can’t relate to that feeling of jubilation when the last puzzle piece goes in — without being forced — or when you are left thinking about a good book long after you’ve read the last page?”

The Charleswood 55-Plus Active Living Centre is working hard to ensure its members feel connected and informed, Werbuk added. Centre volunteers provide weekly wellness checks, and members receive emails with links to resources, activities and online entertainment.

For more information on membership or resources available for older adults, call the centre at 204-897-5263.