As we grow older, we can easily become consumed by the ordinary tasks of our day-to-day routine, causing us to feel detached from the environment we live in. However, there's hope with Eva Barron, a remarkable 96-year-old member of the Arbor Terrace community in Teaneck, who has initiated a creative writing course for seniors. It is said to be the "most thought-provoking activity" in the community.
Barron started the writing club about three years ago, after realizing that many of the activities available to seniors involved passive listening or watching. She wanted to create a space where seniors could actively engage with their imaginations, share their life experiences, and contribute to the community.
The writing club comprises a diverse group of 10 members, ranging in age from 70 to 100. They come from different backgrounds, professions, and life experiences, but they all share a common interest in writing. For many of them, it's their first time writing creatively. Barron sets writing prompts, often autobiographical, which the members use to spark their creativity and develop their writing skills.
The writing club at Arbor Terrace is a testament to the power of creativity and imagination—at any age! It's an opportunity for seniors to connect with their past, express their emotions, and share their stories with others. The group's members have developed strong bonds, and their writing has become a legacy that they can leave behind for their families and loved ones.
One of the most remarkable things about the writing club is the way in which it has stretched the imagination of its members. Herb Ehrlich, a 100-year-old who stormed the beach at Normandy during World War II, admits that he had done a lot of writing about laws and insurance before joining the club. But now, he says, his thinking has expanded, and he feels more creative than ever before.
The writing club at Arbor Terrace is more than just a writing class; it's a community of individuals who share a common interest in creative expression. It's an opportunity for seniors to unleash their creativity, share their experiences, and connect with others. As Barron puts it, "We all have something to contribute," and the writing club is a testament to that belief. Read the full feature on Eva and the writing club at NorthJersey.com.