Age Proud

Ms Esme Gay Jackson proudly shows off her garden. Having a beautiful garden is a Caymanian bragging right. Even at 87 Mrs Jackson still tends to her lovely garden on the Brac.  

It is increasingly acknowledged that gardens and green spaces are associated with better physical, social and mental health. Starting a small garden at a young age helps fight things like osteoporosis as we age. 

Caymanians have always known the benefits and importance of backyard farming.

Historically Caymanians added to what the seas provided by subsistence farming or backyard farming – seafood and bread-kind are Caymanian culinary classics that will always go together!

 Subsistence, and organic farming in particular, are seeing a resurgence in the Cayman Islands and the Council applauds the farmers, both young and old alike, who keep up this necessary tradition.

Research has shown that dancing is remarkably good for brain health – even more so than regular exercise.

For example, studies have proven that something as simple (and delightful) as learning to line dance can help older people to not only keep dementia at bay – but actually reverse early onset of the disease.

Be like Ms Lucille! Keep dancing!

Cultural Heritage is an important societal component that helps give communities and individuals a sense of purpose throughout our lives.

As we age it plays a huge part in our wellbeing. There are many ways to learn about Cayman’s traditions in an interactive and fun way that will help us all to age strong. 

Even at 82 Ms Lucille Douglas still remembers how to masterfully husk and chop a coconut.

She still loves to spend time teaching the children in her community traditional skills that help keep Caymanian heritage alive.

Timeless art

By actively pursuing creativity, seniors can significantly improve their quality of life and love what they create along the way. One of the greatest benefits of art is that it promotes memory and cognitive health. So, grab your art supplies and head out to visit the senior citizens in your community today. It will benefit them, but also you as you age. 

Making cycling easy at any age

No matter how old we are it is always important to make positive and healthy lifestyle choices to help us thrive as we age. Connect with family and friends, learn something new by taking up an art, exercise, computer or language class, teach your favourite pastime or skill, go to church, do some gardening, go dancing, cook your favourite healthy meal. 

It's not age that matters. It's the heart that counts. So, as we age it is important that we still get out to celebrate, have fun, meet new people and have memorable experiences just like Ms Martha Robinson.

Find an older person in your community and commit to making sure you get them out.

Meet Mr Carlyle Ebanks aka Uncle Zekiel. Mr Ebanks not only brings laughter on the stage but as a part of his service to the community he shares his cassavas, limes, soursop, plantains and more with neighbours and those in need.

Ms Elaine Young is a lifelong and passionate gardener who loves showcasing her orchids. 

Studies show that we cultivate our wellbeing and mental health through the love of gardening - benefits include reduced stress, feelings of mastery, accomplishment and competence, higher levels of self-efficacy, self-esteem, as well as psychological wellbeing and delayed dementia.

Locally grown food, like Mr Crawford’s impressive 13+ hands banana bounty, is good for the environment, for sustainability, for the economy and of course for our bellies!

Learning from and supporting local experienced farmers helps to build stronger community connections.

Good feelings not only make us happier and more resilient, studies show that they may actually extend our lives. Find something you love and make time to do it always.

As we age we may find ourselves spending a lot of time alone. Try participating in activities that create a sense of purpose in your daily life. These can include hobbies, volunteer activities, or time with family and friends.

An active lifestyle is more than just getting your daily steps in. It includes doing activities that are meaningful to you and benefit your mind, spirit, and body.