Every third Sunday, six-year-old Zyla Johnson and her eleven-year-old sister, Shanta, visit the Spring Arbor Living community as part of the "Seniors You're Not Forgotten" book club. Their mission: to bring joy and companionship to residents who may otherwise feel alone.
They also spent some time during their spring break. Zyla read aloud to 86-year-old Nancy Smith, reciting, "up the spout again."
"Oh, that was so sweet," Smith replied, her smile lighting up the room.
Shanta explained why she and her sister dedicate their spring breaks to the club, "Sometimes they don't have anybody to hang out with. So we came to hang out with the seniors."
Their time together has blossomed into genuine friendships. "They make us feel very special. And we are very special," Smith said.
According to Pew Research, 35% of Americans 65 and older report feeling lonely or isolated, a condition that can take a toll on both mental and physical health.
Katrelia Johnson, the girls' mother, said, "There have been some seniors that have told me personally, you give me a reason to keep going. I will never forget you. And those things really touch me and really stick with me."
For Katrelia, bridging the generational gap is personal. "I know how it feels to give a lot. And then when you no longer need it, you're pushed aside and it hurts. And I don't want them to feel that."
Through storytime, the Johnson sisters are writing a new chapter, one filled with connection, laughter, and learning. When asked Zyla if she could guess Nancy's age, Zyla guessed, "33?" Smith said, "I'm 87."
It may be a small act, but for Smith, it means everything. She's even returning the favor, helping the girls grow, one word at a time.
"We were sharing the same memories. It brought me back to my age. Very, very sweet," Smith said.
The Johnsons' kindness doesn't stop at the book club. The family also runs a thrift store, Aged Well, dedicated to supporting seniors in the community.