Carstairs and Didsbury Family & Community Support Services brought a new perspective on aging to the community with a screening of Silver Screamers at the town’s community hall.
The Canadian documentary follows a group of seniors as they step outside their comfort zones to make a horror film, pushing back against the idea that aging means slowing down.
The Rug is a short film about aging and the isolation of a senior woman whose new, mysterious throw rug devours anything placed on it.
The film was directed by Sean Cisterna and featured an all-senior crew to give people the opportunity to try something new, even in old age.
The documentary Silver Screamers follows the senior crew and the inner workings of making the film, and their stories of what led them to working on the short film.
For organizers Lori King and Shannon Wilcox, who saw the film and decided to screen it for what it represents.
“Lori and I both felt this documentary perfectly reflects the kind of community we strive to build, one that honours the wisdom, experience, and vibrant spirit of our seniors,” Wilcox said.
The event also served as a first step in building momentum toward Mountain View County Seniors Week, which begins the first week of June.
Organizers saw the screening as more than a one-time event, using it to spark conversations about aging, connection, and the role seniors continue to play in community life.
“It’s a powerful reminder that aging isn’t about slowing down, but about celebrating a full life and continuing to grow, explore, and connect,” King said.
King and Wilcox said the documentary captured something communities often overlook.
“We have so much to learn from our seniors—wisdom that is too often untapped,” Wilcox said.
“Our seniors are incredibly inspiring, engaging and up for a good time.”
More information about Seniors Week and other local programming can be found through FCSS social media pages and town websites in the Mountain View County area.