A group of active seniors are proof that you can be young at any age, just so long as you’re young at heart.
The Young at Heart senior group serves individuals, ages 50 and up, of the surrounding communities as a way to spend time with friends and enjoy the most out of life. The group meets every Thursday for lunch at the Hart Community Center in Davisburg.
‘They’re very open and very welcoming,? Sarah Richmond, Springfield Parks and Recreation administrative assistant and senior coordinator, said. ‘They’re very friendly. It’s great to work with them.?
The group is an extension of Springfield Township’s parks and recreation department. On average 30 people attend the weekly a lunch gatherings, which provide not only a chance to chat with friends, but provide a nutritious, home-cooked meal for $4.
‘We try to provide a healthy and nutritious meal,? Richmond said. ‘Seniors have special nutritional needs and this way we know they’re getting one or two good meals a week.?
John Martz is one individual who can vouch for the health aspect of the Thursday lunch.
‘I had a pacemaker put in and this just makes me feel better,? Martz, an 8-year member of the group, said. ‘The meals are very healthful and the price is very reasonable.?
Meeting topics vary on a variety of topics to keep seniors updated on the latest information that pertains to them.
‘We try to keep our seniors updated and informed so they can make good decisions,? Richmond said. ‘We try to make sure all the recent information is available.?
An example of this desire to stay updated would be a discussion of the new Medicare cards, a topic that affects many seniors in the area.
‘We do not want people to take advantage of our seniors,? Richmond said. ‘That’s why we try to provide as much information as is available.?
Besides the weekly lunch meetings, field trips and special gatherings are always on the calendar for the group. Upcoming activities include trips to Hartland and Oxford for theater performances.
‘It’s all about comradery and getting the seniors out and involved,? Richmond said.
The group also raises money for its events by way of events such as an annual spaghetti dinner. An elected board (president, vice president, secretary, treasurer and delegates) oversees the logistics. This year’s president is Jane Schaefer.
‘I really like to do things that set a really good example and show them they can still do things,? Schaefer said. She can often be found reading an interesting passage or inspirational prayer during lunch.
Schaefer meets with Richmond to brainstorm ideas and check in on the parks and recreation end of the group. In addition to this, Schaefer serves as a communication liaison for the group, often updating members on friends? health or events in surroundings areas during lunch.
‘I encourage the group to let me know about things so we can get the word out,? Schaefer said. ‘I think my favorite part is being here with these great people and to provide encouragement and get encouragement for myself.?
Building a sense of friendship and support is a major interest factor for group member Reta Dodd. She attends each week with her brothers, Don Halsey and Samuel ‘Pace? Halsey.
‘My favorite part is just visiting people and talking about the way things were,? Dodd said.
Those under age 50 benefit from the group as well.
‘Seeing their smiling faces and seeing how they’re doing, I’ve become so attached to them. It’s so rewarding,? Richmond said. ‘I love hearing their stories. This is such a kind and caring group, it’s a joy to work for them.?
To learn more about the Young at Heart senior group, call the Springfield Township Parks and Recreation department at (248) 634-0412.