According to Health Canada, older adults who choose to adopt the credo of “active living” quickly come to recognize that this involves more than just participating in regular physical exercise. We are rewarded by an increased sense of well-being and a higher quality of life.
There is mounting evidence that remaining physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually active, as well as maintaining one’s interest in community life, helps to prevent disease, depression, unsavoury dependencies and many chronic conditions.
Locally, a variety of well organized programs and services are offered through senior citizen organizations, including the clubs located in Nakusp, Burton and others scattered throughout the region.
In addition, numerous cultural, educational and leisure time opportunities arise throughout the year presented under the auspices of Selkirk College, Arrow Lakes Arts Council, public library, Museum and Archives, art studios and galleries, local theatre, groups and various non-profit organizations such as NaCoMo Wellness Centre and, of course, municipally operated programs and services including Nakusp Hot Springs, public parks and the arena complex.
There are also widely ranging groups which focus on highlighting the natural surroundings all the way through to promoting Legion activities, as well as sports-related, gardening, musical group presentations and individual instruction made available for so many others. The choices are amazingly extensive for such a small community, and ever-so tantalizing!
I recently learned from the Nakusp Seniors’ Association president Nancy Stewart that preparations are currently underway to launch the fall and winter program activities such as Monday’s bridge, board game and card night. Those who are interested in playing pool are also welcome, and arrangements can be made to accommodate enthusiasts at a time best suited to meet participants’ needs.
The regular monthly business meeting is held on the third Tuesday of the month, beginning at 1 p.m.. This is an ideal time to join with others in exploring new ideas as old favourites, ensuring that the club remains active and responsive to an even greater variety of hobby interest pastimes and special events.
The drop-in coffee morning takes place every Wednesday from 10-11 a.m. at the hall, a time when old friends and new arrivals can get together to swap news and simply enjoy each other’s company. I dropped by the hall myself last week and learned that four of the club members had participated in the recently-held Golf for the Cure event that raised the impressive sum of $1,000 on that occasion. Special thanks were extended to Joyce Marchischuck, Lois Comeau, Gay Hanson and Barb Miller for their much appreciated support.
Local pianist and choral group conductor Shirley Garvey (I refer to her as the best lounge player ever) arrives at the hall promptly at 11 a.m. each Wednesday, welcoming singers who enjoy the fun aspect of making music for the sheer love of it, both for themselves and for the entertainment of all who just want to listen to the program of mostly oldies.
The Seniors’ Serenaders welcome new members, both male and female, and regardless of one’s level of talent, or ability, quickly find themselves uplifted by the joyful spirit which exudes throughout their weekly musical gatherings.
The Nakusp Quilt Club meets every Thursday at 10 a.m. at the hall and again, new members are warmly welcomed. Those of us who had the opportunity to attend the club’s quilt show held earlier this summer marvelled at the vast array of colour, texture and brilliant design ideas demonstrating clearly the extraordinary creativity of our area quilters. Bring your sewing machine along and be prepared to learn some new techniques.
Each last Friday of the month, Debbie Guest and her company of great cooks prepare the Club’s monthly dinner starting at 5.30 p.m., followed by a program of light entertainment and news of upcoming events. The catered dinners cost $14 and advance reservations are required. On the menu this month is Chinese, so call Doreen Desrocher at 250-265-4102 no later than noon on the Wednesday prior to ensure seating for this popular event.