Elderly Party Animals: Seniors Hit the Nightclub Scene in Brussels

A group of retirement-home residents, mostly in their 80s and 90s, brings excitement to the dance floor as a Belgian nonprofit organizes an electrifying nightclub experience to combat loneliness.

On a lively weekend night, the Mirano nightclub in Brussels came alive with the vibrant sounds of electronic music, but among the typical party-goers were an unexpected group: residents from local retirement homes, many well into their 80s and 90s. This unique outing was part of an initiative launched by Papy Booom, a Belgian nonprofit dedicated to reducing loneliness among seniors and enhancing their social engagement.

As the bass-heavy beats reverberated through the venue, one standout attendee, 99-year-old Guillaume Vanderweyen, reflected on the experience. "Look at the atmosphere," he said, delighting in the chance to step out onto the dance floor for the first time in decades. Elegantly dressed in suit and pocket handkerchief, Vanderweyen happily boogied to the rhythms of popular artists, something he hadn’t done in over 40 years.

The thrill of the evening was palpable. Residents who typically face isolation were breaking free to enjoy themselves. Donning striking accessories and vibrant makeup, they joined the crowd of dancers. Vanderweyen, who credits his mobility to daily exercises, mastered the graceful movements alongside other attendees, united in a rare moment of joy that disrupted their daily routines.

The event, designed to foster community and connection, included an evening of beauty preparations and camaraderie before heading to the vibrant club scene. The joy seen among the seniors was a testament to the program's success—an opportunity for them to embrace life and social interactions, demonstrating that age alone should not limit one’s zest for fun.

Papy Booom’s initiative has not only reshaped how seniors socialize but has also created an exciting narrative around life in later years, showcasing that happiness knows no age limits.