JFS is collaborating with the Framingham Housing Authority to support older adults to remain healthy, independent, and age in place as part of the Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC). JFS has implemented and manages a healthy aging program called “Healthy Partners” at two different subsidized senior housing sites- Hastings House and Rose Kennedy Lane. The NORC programs deliver services, develop partnerships, mobilize resources, and foster the creation of environments that promote aging in place. They are also a cost-effective way to keep older adults in their homes and out of nursing homes, allowing them to age with dignity in their communities.
Through the surveys completed at both Rose Kennedy Lane and Hastings House during the End of Summer BBQ’s, older adults asked for drumming classes to come back! The NORC program brought Tara Murphy, a long-time African American dancer of Massachusetts to the NORC’S during the holiday season. Her love of the cultures and art forms of West Africa has led Tara to share the healing, upliftment, and joy of dance and drumming throughout New England.
Older adults from both Rose Kennedy Lane and Hastings House were in attendance and completed a full 60-minute class that included stretching, dancing, and drumming! Tara was knowledgeable, patient, and easy to follow. All of the older adults that attended expressed that they had a great time and couldn’t wait for the next one!