Seniors

This weekend marks the 30th anniversary of National Grandparents Day, first proclaimed by President Jimmy Carter in 1978. The origins of the honor to our parent’s parents originated with the lobbying efforts of Mrs. Marian McQuade (now age 91), a housewife from West Virginia, whose primary motivation was to champion the cause of lonely elderly often abandoned in nursing homes.

It’s one of our greatest fears as we age – that we can no longer remain independent, maintain our own homes, and physical limitations will ultimately force us into a living situation we’d never chose for ourselves. Even the absolute best of assisted living situations may be less than desirable when compared to one’s desire for independence. That’s why I believe the best way to honor that greatest generation now struggling to navigate the world, is to do absolutely all we can to support seniors wishing to stay in their homes whenever possible.

The evening started at the Park and Recreation building on Hillcrest Lane outside of Carthage. Billy Ransom, the director and Maria Morrison the Admin Asst were there to tell us about their department and give us a tour of their facilities.

They have seven staff members and five facilities spread throughout the county offering Youth, Adult and Senior Activities. Their mission statement says,

(Moore County Parks and Recreation) Provides leisure service to the residents of Moore County with first priority to youth and senior adults.

Moore County Youth Activities include Basketball, baseball, softball, flag football, soccer for both boys and girls, Tennis, Volleyball, Cheerleading and Dance Impressions. The Adult and Senior Activities include Co-Ed Softball, 50+ Softball, Good Time Party at the Davis Center the 3rd Friday of each month and Dancing and Tai Chi at the Old West End Gym.