Senior citizens are becoming increasingly aware of the need to keep physically fit and maintain a healthy, nutritious diet. Seniors should do whatever possible to avoid joint and other problems that come with arthritis changes as part of the aging process. There are some health related activities, both organized and spontaneous, which are found in Greer, South Carolina, a section of Greenville County. Some are local while others require a small amount of travel.
Types
At Victor Park and gym in Greer, there are several senior activities. The group that organizes these is called "Soar" standing for "Senior Out and Around." Twice a month seniors meet for socializing, but you are free to walk around the grounds at any time and many do. In the gym, there is an exercise program the third Thursday of the month and during the season when children are in school, seniors come in the morning and walk a mile around the gym. This is followed by an exercise program adjustable to the ages and physical condition of the participants. For those able, there is a Nintendo computerized game program with a fitness game that seniors follow.
Other Options
Senior Action, which has served the area since 1967, has a comprehensive program for seniors including activities from health promotion, prevention and fitness programs. These are designed to strengthen the maturing population in well-being. The organization offers health education programs featuring local doctors and health professionals to help seniors manage their personal health conditions. There is a fitness center open to members and available for a fee. This enables you to use their equipment in the fitness room. You are entitled to an hour orientation with a fitness director who will show you how to use the machines and will plan a personal program for you. You can also participate in aerobics and yoga.
Features
Senior Solutions has for 40 years been providing service to seniors in the Greer area. Its purpose is to enhance the lives of active, independent seniors through exercise and socialization. Its website contains fitness and nutrition articles to help you continue to lead a healthy life. The first annual senior golf tournament will take place this year on Oct. 18, 2010 at Cross Creek Plantation in Seneca, South Carolina and is open to the public.
Considerations
Consider the activities sponsored by the South Carolina Appalachian Council on Aging designed to coordinate services for older persons in Greenville County which includes Greer. They help older adults to be independent and remain in their homes. They offer courses in nutrition counseling, home injury prevention, physical fitness, as well as health screening and medication management.
A Different Kind of Healthy Activity
There are "pick your own" farms throughout South Carolina. In Greenville County, there is the Mini Miracles Farm which sells organic food and fresh local eggs in their indoor market. They sell snacks in their refreshment stand and have a picnic area as well. There are classes on organic gardening as a prelude to healthy eating.
