Intergenerational games night builds community in Bridgewater

A monthly games night at the Flourish 55+ Healthy Activity Society Centre in Bridgewater is bringing together young and old alike for some regular fun and generational socialization.

Promoted as an intergenerational games night, the concept is supported by a $3,500 wellness fund grant from the Lunenburg County Community Health Board. For a couple of hours on the third Tuesday of each month, the Flourish group’s site at the town’s curling club is bustling with friendly games of Crib, Scrabble or Snakes and Ladders. While contemplating next moves, the groups snacked on fruit trays, popcorn or chicken strips.

Flourish executive director Lisa LeBlanc said the idea grew from what she was hearing from older adults regularly visiting the centre. Families are busier than ever and seniors have felt increasingly isolated, she said.

“One thing that has really stood out to me is the fact that there’s not a lot of interaction between our seniors and youth,” LeBlanc said. “Families are very busy nowadays. Parents are working, kids are in after‑school programs and that relationship between the grandparent and the grandchild sometimes goes by the wayside.”

LeBlanc said games night is designed to help rebuild those connections by creating a relaxed, welcoming space where young and old can spend time together.

“We talk about intergenerational wealth and I think it’s really defined as the time we spend together and what we learn from one another,” she said. “This project is about bringing the ages back together.”

In addition to a wide range of current and vintage board games, there is a small putting green available, along with soft‑tipped dart‑style games and other activities suitable for all ages. Staff and volunteers teach newcomers how to play.

Finger foods and snacks are provided at no cost. LeBlanc said the centre focuses on offering healthier beverages such as juice, water, coffee and tea.

The Wellness Fund grant covered food, games, supplies, advertising and a portion of operational costs, including fuel cards for participants who need help getting to the centre.

Community health board wellness funds support non-profit groups working to improve health in their communities. Among other things, grants go toward programs that promote food security, housing, transportation and social participation. The goal is to reduce risks of poor health outcomes in Nova Scotia communities.

“It means everything,” LeBlanc said of the funding. “It brings attention to who we are and what we offer. People often say, ‘I didn’t even know you were there.’ The community health board has been unbelievable in showing that they believe in us and want to help us.”

LeBlanc said the centre’s broader mission is to reduce isolation, especially among older adults who struggled during the pandemic and may still feel disconnected.

“There are so many people who are stuck in their homes and don’t know what resources are out there,” she said. “It’s important as a community that we support one another and show people they have a place here.”

She said intergenerational programs play a key role in that work.

“The connection between youth and seniors is so important for learning — about heritage, traditions and stories that might otherwise be lost,” she said. “This project helps bring that connection back.” 

Photo of Flourish attendees enjoy some musical entertainment during a recent event. The Flourish 55+ Healthy Activity Society Centre is very active in Lunenburg County.