Allies in Aging Blog

By: Dr. Daniel J. Koltz, Gerontology Specialist, Montana State University Extension. July is Social Wellness Month, a time to focus on the importance of friendships, family, and staying connected with others. Spending time with people we care about can help us feel happier, healthier, and less stressed. Good relationships are important at every age and can improve both mental and physical health. Social wellness means building healthy and positive relationships with others. T

Twice a week, in an unassuming community center in Billings, a group of women gather to rehearse. They stretch, count, laugh, remember steps, and help one another through the routines. They are the Golden Dancers, and since 1988 they have been challenging what many people assume aging is supposed to look like. Their story began with friendship, loss, and the desire to stay connected. In 1985, Gayle Larson and Elaine Schulz met in a YMCA Gentle Gym class. Both were recent wido