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Senior citizens provide us a valuable resource |
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Each year at this time we stop to honor one of our most valuable resources - our senior citizens - as May is designated Older Americans Month.
Approximately one-third of Jackson County's residents are considered older adults, and they represent some of the best we have to offer. It's hard to imagine where we would be without our senior adult volunteers. Many agencies rely on them to brighten the days of others and to help take the work load off Harris Regional Hospital, the health department, local schools, the library, Meals on Wheels, The Community Table, American Red Cross and United Christian Ministries. One group alone - members of Jackson County's chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons- log about 400 volunteer hours each month. If you think senior citizens aren't vibrant, go by the Golden Age Center. You might be surprised at the activities you find under way, everything from strenuous hikes to "Just Move with Judy" mild exercise. Then there's bowling, tennis, line dancing, Tai Chi, just for starters. We're in the middle of Smoky Mountain Senior Games which provide those citizens a chance to not only stay in shape but to show off their physical fitness to others. Our local residents have enjoyed tremendous success over the years led by the legendary Bert Moses and Dessie Gilmore, both in their 90s. With the graying of America and an older age requirement for Social Security, senior citizens are going to be a more vital part of the American work force. That's especially true with recently passed federal legislation no longer limiting the amount of money seniors can earn without it affecting their Social Security. Longtime residents of our county can relate the history of the area better than any book can. Take the time to listen to them and see what they have to say. You'll be glad you did. Unfortunately, not all of our older residents enjoy the good health to participate in Senior Games or Golden Age Center activities. Keep in mind shut-ins and residents of nursing centers not just in May but throughout the year. We're all getting older. If we're lucky we'll all be classified as senior citizens one day. The work our seniors are doing now will make it better for us when our time comes. Editorial policyThe opinions expressed on this page are those of the Sylva Herald Editorial Committee. Opinions are derived independently and owe no allegiance to any group, organization or political party. We welcome opposing views. |
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