LOS Angeles – The Cannes Film Festival may have closed its curtains in France, but in Calabasas, a very different type of projector shone. The residents of Belmont Village Senior Living Communities across southern California have traveled a green carpet with an orchestra and screened a range of films.
One of these seniors was Jo Jordan, an actress for life who was happy for another role.
“I started when I was eight, and here I am,” said Jordan. “I did my last job the day after my move in Belmont.”
The festival has presented short documentary style films, featuring the residents themselves, presenting their community service, forest rescue efforts to work with a local marine mammals center.
“With me, it was, hey, you here. And I’m happy to do it, you know,” said Jo, smiling.
The afternoon included glamorous outfits and even awards. But for many residents, it was not a question of flair; It was a question of finding a goal and reconnecting with creativity.
“We have very talented people in our community. We really have it. And they don’t have the chance to express themselves often, so it was good,” said Jordan.
This sense of objective is not only emotional, it is also neurological. According to the Alzheimer’s association, volunteering later in life can help protect the brain from cognitive decline and dementia. Seniors who volunteer show a stronger memory and executive function than those who do not.
Alejandra Martinez, Belmont Village activity program coordinator, said the festival was designed thinking about this deeper advantage.
“We want our residents to age in place and that we really have the impression of having this sense of objective, especially with our local communities in the region,” said Martinez.
This kind of commitment could become more and more important. Census projections show that in 2034, the Americans aged 65 and over will exceed those under 18 for the first time in American history.
“We really hope to inspire other elderly people to really help our local communities,” said Martinez. “And it doesn’t matter as they get older, it’s never too late to really start and make this difference.”
And for Jordan, the festival felt like everything that a good cinematographic experience should be.
“Coming here and meeting everyone, even if I haven’t met them yet, it’s a comfortable feeling, you know? It’s fabulous. This is really the case.”