The body’s physical and mental decline associated with aging varies from person to person, but some common issues can be a decline in memory, difficulty learning new things, and trouble focusing from one task to another.  Research shows that people who stay intellectually engaged are more likely to maintain their mental acuity.  Traditionally, quilting was done to provide warm blankets for families, but in the last few decades we have learned that quilting has much more to offer.   Our aging population has turned to quilting to help fill the time gap after retirement, to express creativity, for the health benefits of relieving stress, and increasing their social interaction.  More unintentionally, quilting has been proven to help combat the effects of aging because participants learn new skills, it is challenging, and it demands concentration all which promote mental acuity.

To offer options for both mental health and wellness, as well as teaching new sewing and quilting skills, a two day quilt retreat was offered for quilters in the Pennyrile area and beyond.  34 quilters were taught the skills needed to create the Savannah Squares quilt and the Carpenter’s Star quilt.  The Family and Consumer Sciences agent partnered with Kenlake State Park for use of facilities and lunch options.  Students were also able to socialize in-person which was welcomed after COVID-19 paused in-person meetings for the better part of two years.

Follow-up evaluations from the training showed that 100% of participants learned a new skill that could be used in their sewing and quilting projects.  70% of participants agreed the training offered a positive impact on their mental health.  100% of participants asked for the retreat to be offered again in 2023.  One participant offered these words after the two days.  “I wanted to thank you again for a GREAT Quilty Pleasurers retreat!  I had fun!  I went home Wednesday night tired, and brain fried, but so happy!  Thank you for all your hard work preparing for and providing an excellent time for all of us!! I hope you do this again next year and I hope to be there!”   Because of this and other positive comments, dates have been set for a retreat to be offered in July of 2023.