DOVER — Aging as an adult brings a variety of new questions: How can I spice up life with new hobbies or destinations? How do those age 55-plus communities really work? What kinds of businesses and agencies will support me into the future?

In the sunny ballroom of Noble’s Pond community clubhouse on July 16, active adults found information and activities to enhance their lifestyle at Thrive Dover – Senior Life After 55. The fourth annual event was free and open to the public. Thrive is designed to offer older adults an array of unique and fun activities to try, plus a selection of personalized services, resources and demonstrations. The day included vendors, exhibitors, giveaways and activities.

The 2021 open house was presented by Delaware State News in partnership with Noble’s Pond, with event sponsor Bayhealth and Westminster Village.

Three dozen vendors and demonstrations shared services for health, homecare, finance, vacation planning, hair and makeup, volunteerism, veterans’ services and much more.

“We had a great turnout today, and this is our first time” attending an event in months, since the start of COVID-19, said Janae Aglio of Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau.

“There’s been so much pent-up demand,” said Elaine Nolan of Dream Vacations, who constantly researches which countries have re-opened to American travelers.

Guests clapped along as the Modern Maturity Center Steppin’ Seniors sashayed across the dance floor (and they always welcome new members). Ida Poindexter led the First State Steppers in line dances and also showed seated aerobics, for those with limited mobility.

Mary Jo Vasquez signed women up for health screenings through the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. DEMCO shared their community services, from adult IT classes to youth finance seminars. Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity shared their home repair assistance program while also welcoming potential volunteers.

Many people chatted about their back pain, shoulder issues and fall risks with Kim Russell at the NovaCare Rehabilitation booth.

Meanwhile, Leo Schaeffler of S&G Accounting answered questions about “how retirement income affects your taxes … most people at that age don’t feel like doing it themselves,” especially new residents who are unfamiliar with Delaware filing procedures.

Offering COVID-19 vaccinations was TaQuina Warren, owner and pharmacist of Focus Pharmacy. She also specializes in diabetes, which affects so many people in so many ways — and yet can be prevented.

“A lot of people don’t realize they are diabetic or … they don’t recognize the signs,” although prediabetes can be corrected if we “pay attention to our activities, what we put in our mouths.”

Chef De Andra M. Lockett capped the afternoon with a cooking demonstration: chicken piccata. This versatile lemony caper dish can also be made with salmon, pork or veal, said Ms. Lockett, the Bayhealth food and nutrition patient services manager.

Food trucks, door prizes and giveaways rounded out the day, along with Noble’s Pond home tours of their 55+ lifestyle community.

Thrive is “such a great resource for the community, as far as putting people in touch with different providers and resources for those who are 55 and better,” said Beth Haynes, director of marketing with Regal Builders, the Noble’s Pond developer.

Previously known as the “Senior Spree,” this event now comes under the “Thrive” umbrella.

“It’s an encouraging word,” said Emily Fitzgerald, event organizer with Delaware State News. “Here’s how to thrive in your community at this age, at any age.”

In September, Thrive Eastern Shore is coming to Salisbury, Maryland, and Thrive Dover will return in 2022. Learn more at www.DelmarvaEvents.net. Find Thrive publications at https://BaytoBayNews.com/SpecialSections.