NYC’s senior citizen improv class says ‘yes, and’ to healthy aging
A senior citizen improv class in Brooklyn offers older adults a creative outlet that promotes mental and physical flexibility, social connection, and emotional well-being. Led by Stanley Zareff, the free, biweekly sessions encourage participants to embrace spontaneity and overcome inhibitions through improvisational theater. Research suggests such activities can improve cognitive function, mood, and communication skills, especially among older adults and those with dementia.
- ▪The improv class is held every other week at the St. Charles Jubilee Older Adult Center in Brooklyn and is free to attend.
- ▪Participants range from 61 to 97 years old and include a former actor, an emergency medicine doctor, and a Holocaust survivor.
- ▪Stanley Zareff, an 82-year-old actor and communications consultant, founded the class two years ago to build confidence and connection among seniors.
- ▪Studies show improv can improve depressive symptoms, social connectedness, attention, memory, and communication skills in older adults.
- ▪Improv is considered a beneficial aging intervention, particularly for individuals with dementia, by boosting mood and self-esteem.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Wellness exclusive NYC’s senior citizen improv class says ‘yes, and’ to healthy aging By Anna Medaris Published April 29, 2026, 6:00 a.m. ET It’s a Tuesday afternoon in Brooklyn Heights, and Pamela has just arrived at her bachelorette party. It’s a peculiar one: The bride-to-be appears to be a bespectacled 80-something with a practical coral coat and significant hearing loss. There’s nothing but imaginary salt and pepper on the fold-up table. Plus, the three men posing as Pamela’s ex-husbands are the only guests there. “You’re going to be such a cute bride,” one says. “Again…and again…and again.” The scene devolves from there. See Pamela sing “Blue Suede Shoes” in response to husband No. 1’s memory of their time in Graceland. Listen as Pamela sneezes at husband No.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at New York Post.
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