As part of Loyola Marymount University’s Brighten Your Summer series, more than 20 older adults gathered for An Afternoon of Wellness for Older Adults on July 22 in the Emerson Avenue Community Garden. The event offered a blend of movement, mindfulness, conversation, and community, designed to support the well-being of local older adults.
Fred Puza, director of Community Relations at LMU, welcomed attendees, expressing his enthusiasm for the community-focused summer programming. “There’s something deeply meaningful about bringing older adults and college students together,” Puza shared. “These intergenerational connections foster understanding, joy, and a shared sense of purpose. Everyone benefits when we create spaces where stories, energy, and wisdom are exchanged.”
The afternoon began with a welcome from Tina Vanderjagt, a representative of the Emerson Avenue Community Garden. She introduced the space and shared how the garden supports environmental education and community healing.
Attendees then participated in a calming meditation and guided relaxation session led by Diana Hoffman and Ashlei Lien from Airport Marina Counseling Services. The gentle breathing and mindfulness practices helped set a tranquil tone for the afternoon.
Next, members of the LMU women’s basketball team led participants through a series of gentle stretches. After the session, the group enjoyed a lively Q & A with the student-athletes, discussing topics ranging from the team’s season highlights to healthy lifestyle habits and daily wellness practices.
The event concluded with food and refreshments in the garden. Attendees mingled, shared stories, and for many, took a first-time tour of the garden’s lush grounds.
An Afternoon of Wellness for Older Adults was one of several events in LMU’s Brighten Your Summer series, a lineup of free, public programming that includes drama, sports, movies, classes, worship, and family-friendly activities. The initiative invites neighbors to experience the vibrancy of LMU’s campus and community partners throughout the summer.
