The Red Hat Society is a community of senior women that come together to have fun! They are spotted around America in their red hats and friendly smiles. The community has a positive message for older women showing that senior living doesn’t mean the end of dressing up and having fun. The saying of the red hats is “You’re never too old to play dress up.”
Red Hatters Unite
2019 makes it 21 years since the Red Hat Society was founded. Throughout those years they have encouraged friendship and social interaction for around 70,000 women across the world. To join the community women need to be 50+ in age.
Red Hatters can be seen in groups wearing red hats and lavender clothes. The community has been seen on the TV, news, and even on The Simpsons! They enjoy partaking in fun events, such as going to restaurants, museums, musicals, amusement parks. Even local assisted living homes hold events for the red hatters.
For those seeking a social support system the Red Hat society has Five F’s to live by for those looking to join:
- Fun
- Friendship
- Freedom
- Fulfillment
- Fitness
History of the Red Hat Society
It all started out as a gift for a friend’s 55th birthday party. Sue Ellen Cooper purchased a red fedora as a present along with the Jenny Joseph poem, “Warning”. A line in the poem is where the idea all began, “When I am an old woman, I shall wear purple, with a red hat which doesn’t go and doesn’t suit me.”
The gift went over well that Cooper kept giving similar gifts to friends. The poem started to really resonate with them, so they decided to go to tea in their red hats and purple outfits. The gathering went so well that they decided to start a group to continue the experience. Similar groups starting appearing fulfilling a need that was going unsatisfied. The society gives older women a sense of empowerment and belonging. It became a family, in which they can enjoy life together and support one another.
Being a Red Hatter
A retired teacher, Pat Stegall, was looking for a social outlet and she just so happened to read about the Red Hatters in the newspaper. She thought it would be perfect to form her own group, so she created an outing of 19 women to go on a train trip to Jack London square. They had such a fun time and now her group has 40 members. They go for outings such as, lunches, movies, and plays. The only rule they have is to have a good time.
Senior living and Red Hatters
The Red Hat Society is a space for love and support no matter where you live. There are different groups all over the globe making it possible to join almost anywhere. Even with mobility issues the community will work with you to help with transportation. Although, some meetings are held at senior living communities. If you’re lucky enough it might be held at your senior community!
A positive message is being felt by the Red Hat community of empowerment, friendship, and fun. Women over 50 are coming together to share experiences and have a good time!
Reno Valley Assisted Living and Retirement Community
Reno Valley is an assisted living and retirement community that makes living independently, while at the same time feeling safe and secure, a reality. We strive to provide the best quality of life for all residents including those suffering from loneliness and depression.
We offer a comprehensive activity program that includes both physical and social activities to encourage emotional wellbeing. Our staff is trained to assist those with depression. If you or a loved one are considering assisted living, contact Reno Valley today to learn more about our services or tour our community.
