Articles
Aging Gracefully
Participation by senior citizens at recreation centers across the country has significantly increased over time, and along with it the offerings that beckon them. One example of a successful program is the Georgia-based Macon-Bibb County Department of Parks and Recreation’s Elaine H. Lucas Senior Center.
Engagement Didn’t Stop
It’s not unusual for Metroparks Toledo’s “Big Board,” a master list of announcements and events, to change as schedules and conditions evolve, but the 2020 edition could have been written on an Etch-a-Sketch.
The Old Bakery And Emporium
The concept of “aging” in the United States has undergone a radical shift. Baby Boomers are not willing to equate decline with destiny, and are defying all previous expectations of what getting older looks like. So
The Wellness Club
A healthy, active community is a common goal for any recreation department or municipality. By most accounts, the communities surrounding Geneva Lake, Wis., are active and thriving. In summer, people hike
Senior Participation
Among the biggest challenges in creating programming for residents ages 60 and older are first overcoming the ТseniorУ stereotype, then identifying activities that appeal to their interests and abilit
Take The Initiative
For those who plan to renovate an old building for seniors, the first necessity is not money. There's no denying that you will need money--plenty of it--in the long run. But first you will very likely
Seniors Go Wild For Wii
The regulars at the senior center in Painesville, Ohio, had a dilemma. A Nintendo Wii had been purchased, but the novelty of the new game system had worn off after only a week. On most days, the
Over The Lawn, Through The Wicket
“Be careful, sometimes I forget my sippy-cup on the grass,” a wee girl flatly stated to her new student. The elderly student, securing his cup's lid, replied, “I've done that before.”
Aging Gracefully
Many senior citizens set resolutions regarding health and wellness, only to revert to their previous routines midway through the year. A sedentary lifestyle is harmful to all ages, especially older adults. Just
Senior Programming Soars
Senior programming is booming in West Fargo, N.D. Recreation Manager Lance Belisle explains that the West Fargo Park District responded to the public’s request for additional options.
Huffing And Puffing With A Smile
One of the benefits of living in the Pacific Northwest is access to a wide variety of scenic outdoor activities. From Vancouver, Wash., the Pacific Ocean, Mount Hood, and Mount St. Helens are all reachable by car in
Active And Engaged
Running a successful, active adult center (aka senior center) does not have to be done by a parks and recreation department alone. In late 2012, the city of Raleigh, N.C., opened two such
Late Bloomers Make Good Students
As the oldest center in the city, the Las Palmas Community Center in McAllen, Texas, has long been a recreation destination for local and visiting elderly persons. With such a rich history in
Spice It Up For Seniors
The senior population of every village, town, and city in America is increasing daily. With baby boomers retiring, and nearly a quarter of the American population being at least 55 years old, this
Aging With Grace
There is a subtle but continuing challenge to describe what is generally referred to as a “senior center.” For that matter, what do we call people who go there: senior citizens, older adults,
Unconventional Recreation For An Underserved Population
Most communities tend to do a good job in addressing the leisure interests of elderly residents who are still active and independent. However, when citizens move into supported-living facilities,
Under One Roof
Battling the hazards of slippery ice and snow, town of Hamburg, N.Y., workers last February unpacked moving trucks filled with desks, office supplies, and furniture.
Lose The Senior Center Stereotype
When I finished architecture school, my mother was elated, not because I received a degree but because she was overjoyed since she now knew someone who was able to design her fantasy senior center, which includes a pool, fitness area, spa, gardens, kitchens, and places to gather for laughing with friends.
Senior Citizen Playgrounds
When someone mentions a park or recreation facility, most think of grass, swings, sports fields, and playgrounds. What is a ТplaygroundУ though and who is it for?