Aging can be a daunting experience for some seniors, especially those lacking any type of outlets to enjoy life’s golden years. Research has shown that physical activity can lower the risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer. Being active also improves your strength and balance, which can help prevent injuries and assist you in maintaining your independence. Staying active and stimulating the brain with activities can also reduce your risk of cognitive decline including dementia.
The Isle of Palms Recreation Center is a hidden gem that every senior interested in indulging their pursuits or learning new ones, needs to know about. They provide different programs and classes for all ages, whether you are an island resident or not. The IOP Rec Center offers a host of programs, activities and classes geared toward seniors, including Mah Jongg, gather & knit, bridge social club, over 60 group training, line dancing, pickleball lessons, game room, website design & launch, ask professor cell phone, simplified technology computer series, cyber security and of course, the Keenagers social group!
What is a Keenager? Keenagers embody the youthful spirit of senior citizens—seniors who love gathering year-round to have a great time. The Keenagers is a 55-and-older social group that meets on the first Wednesday of the month at noon from September to May. It features a catered lunch, along with entertainment. The social program has been held at the rec center for more than 12 years.
“This program gets a lot of residents out of their homes,” said Kelsey Marsh, recreation supervisor of special events. “You see the research. If you keep seniors out and engaged within the community, it reduces dementia.”
Around 40 to 50 seniors typically participate in the social hour. Don’t let that number intimidate you though—they have enough room to accommodate more seniors.
“What the rec center is doing for the community is beyond wonderful,” said IOP resident Joe Houdek. “My wife and I have been coming here for eight years.”
Taking care of your physical, mental and cognitive health is important for bolstering a healthy aging process. Making these small adjustments will change your life for the better.
“It’s not just coming here for a free meal, which is wonderful, this is a great program to be a part of,” Houdek added.
Patsey Hindman, another resident, said “I think it’s great to have this program. It gets us older people out of our houses which we need. You are making new friends and meeting and forming new relationships.”
Hindman has resided on the island for 30 years. She started coming to the rec center for fitness and soon after joined the Keenagers.
“I think it’s sad there are not more islander seniors participating in this program,” Hindman added. “Each month the speaker is different. From education to music, you will learn something.”
If you are not a member of the Keenagers group, don’t worry. Just give the IOP Rec Center a call and they will put you on the list for the next meetup. If you have a friend who is a Keenager and participates in this social club, then tag along the next time you are invited.
Seize the day and take the opportunity to enhance your social life and become more active. For more information, visit iop.net/recreation, call 843-886-8294 or stop by the rec center at 24 28th Ave., Isle of Palms.
By Maurice J. Frazier
Leave a Reply