Sporty seniors run for pickleball - plus more
SENIORS WRAP
Pickleball - a cross between tennis, badminton, and ping-pong - is one of the fastest growing sports in the world and the latest trend among older adults. The sport has now arrived in Port Douglas and proves to be a great hit.
Each Friday afternoon a dozen people between the age of 30 and 70 gather at the Community Hall in Mowbray Street Port Douglas to work on their physical and mental health.
With the success of weekly table tennis, organised by U3A in partnership with the Port Douglas Neighbourhood centre, an idea was born to add pickleball to the schedule.
Community Development Worker at the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre, Tanya Morris, said all are welcome, especially seniors, you can play to your skill level and fitness.
“The sport is a low impact way to get moving and it is a great way to both achieve physical activity and to get the psychological and social benefits that are important as we age,” she said.
“Part of pickleball’s appeal is that while it does take coordination, and you have to be physically healthy to play, it’s not that hard to learn and it is a great social activity that anyone can have a go at.
“Some of the benefits from playing both games include improved hand eye coordination, improved reflexes and balance, burning calories and keeping your brain sharp.
“It is also a great opportunity for the younger generation and the older generation to mix, sharing life experiences and knowledge.
“Come along and give both games a go, bring a friend, meet Liz and the team and as a bonus keep the mind and body active, make new friends and get to know the community you live in or are just visiting.”
MEANTIME IN OTHER SENIOR NEWS…
A BIRTHDAY WEEK AT KUBIRRI AGED CARE
Last Friday, Kubirri Aged Care Centre residents celebrated three February birthdays for their residents; Helmut, Ramon and Violet.
Those in attendance enjoyed a delicious sponge birthday cake with strawberries and chocolate served with tea, coffee and Milo.
Residents also reminisced on the hits of the past with music playing in the background and songs from Elvis Presley and Slim Dusty proving to be fan favourites.
One resident, Helmut, told staff that “he feels like he was 22” and said to those joining in the celebration that it was his 22nd Birthday. When asked what his advice was for growing up, he stated, “you have to be happy with your life,” before going on to say that he is happy with his.
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