A unique program at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre (SODC) is offering seniors new ways to interact with the aquarium.
Every Thursday, the SODC offers Senior Sessions, a pre-planned hour of activities or tours specifically designed for seniors who want to learn more about the Salish Sea.
“It’s a really great way for seniors to get into the programming here at the Centre,” said SODC Innovations Advancement Specialist Christina Smethurst.
“We gear the afternoon, which is already a quieter time, to seniors. We turn down the ambient noise, offer seating for those who want it, have a dedicated oceaneer with the group and offer tea and cookies afterwards. It’s a really nice way to spend an afternoon.”
The programming runs through the winter and spring and features a different theme or topic each week. Once the summer months arrive, the program takes a hiatus until fall.
Smethurst added the sessions are also a nice way for seniors to meet other people with similar interests.
“We get a lot of the same participants coming back each week,” she said.
Seniors who participate in the programming also get to see some behind the scenes things other patrons might not always get to see.
“We always feed the eels at the end of each session so the participants get to see them come out and feed. Other than feeding time, the eels don’t spend a lot of time out of their dens so that’s something unique you can see.”
SODC’s Senior Sessions series happens each week on Thursdays at 2:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.oceandiscovery.ca or call 250-665-7511.
Senior Sessions at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre:
• April 18—Guided tour
• April 25—Marine Mammals of the Salish Sea
• May 2 — Guided tour (final Senior Session before summer programming starts.)