Fernando Para, 93, and his son Aitor, 59, are a familiar sight at a Burgos restoration workshop. Their commitment to learning, physical activity, and family connection has made them stand out in their community. Their story is a testament to the power of staying engaged at any age.
Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, Fernando Para, 93, arrives at the Círculo Católico workshop in Burgos, accompanied by his son Aitor, 59. With a steady hand on his walker and a ready smile, Fernando is proof that age is no barrier to curiosity or activity. The pair have become inseparable both in and out of the classroom, drawing attention for their energy and the easy laughter they bring to the group.
Fernando’s approach to retirement is anything but passive. A native of La Horra in the Ribera del Duero, he recalls his early years making adobe bricks before his family moved to Vitoria in 1954. His working life was spent in construction, including helping build Burgos landmarks like Plaza Roma after returning to the city in 1969. Now, decades later, he continues to seek out new skills and challenges.
Swimming three times a week and attending restoration classes twice weekly, Fernando maintains a schedule that would challenge many half his age. Since October, he and Aitor have been regulars at the adult education workshop on Calle Concepción, where they tackle hands-on projects under the guidance of their admired instructor, Elena.
It was Aitor who first signed up for the restoration course, but he quickly realized his father would be the ideal partner. Fernando’s background as a builder and his love for manual work made the class a natural fit. Together, they have restored a range of items, from century-old chairs to a magazine rack for Fernando’s granddaughter, each project sparking new conversations and the occasional friendly debate.
One of their most memorable creations is a framed photograph inspired by ‘El bueno, el feo y el malo’. Aitor restored the frame and convinced his father to pose as Clint Eastwood, while he took on the role of Lee Van Cleef. The playful portrait, a birthday gift for Fernando’s 93rd, was even featured in the annual student exhibition, capturing the spirit of their partnership.
For Aitor, seeing his father’s enthusiasm is a source of pride. “It means a lot to me, because many older people prefer to stay at home, but he wants to keep moving,” he says. The classes have become more than a hobby—they are a way to stay connected, active, and engaged with others.
Fernando credits his drive to a simple principle: consistency. “You have to keep at it. Even if you leave frustrated one day, you come back and try again,” he explains. This determination shapes his outlook on aging and learning alike.
Looking ahead, both father and son have already signed up for another year of classes. “We’re already on the list for next year,” Fernando says with a grin. “Let’s see if we make it,” he jokes, while Aitor looks on, confident that they will.
Stories like theirs highlight the growing movement in Spain toward active aging and lifelong learning. As the country’s population continues to age, examples such as Fernando and Aitor’s partnership offer a reminder of the value of staying engaged—physically, mentally, and socially—well into later life.
