Just because people age does not mean their social lives end.
Three local organizations are working to keep seniors active through exercise, events and volunteer work.
HealthWorks Fitness Center currently has two classes on its website specifically for seniors.
The RockSteady Boxing Program is a nationwide program designed to help stop and revert Parkinson's Disease through a non-contact boxing-based fitness curriculum. The center celebrated its one-year anniversary of the program this month.
Another course is senior strength and yoga, which is a 25-minute workout designed with senior adults in mind. The class includes moderate hand weights, balls and bands. The strength portion is followed by 25-30 minutes of assisted yoga using a chair to improve strength, flexibility and clarity of mind. The class meets from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. in Studio D1 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Contact HealthWorks at 870-862-5442 for more information.
Champagnolle Landing Senior Wellness Center also likes to keep local seniors busy with educational talks, domino tournaments and dances. Tami Sweaza, office manager and activities director, said the next few major events are as follows:
• Lucretia Madison with Lincoln Heritage Funeral Advantage will answer any questions regarding her organization at 10 a.m. Feb. 4.
• Aron Pagan and Leslie Rice with the South Arkansas Center on Aging will provide nutrition education Feb. 12.
• The White Mustang Band will play at the Valentine's Dance, which begins at 7 p.m. Feb. 14. The dance is for those 55 and older, and those who attend are encouraged to bring their favorite covered dish. The dance will be at the center, located at 910 Champagnolle Road.
El Dorado Connections also strives to keep seniors busy with RSVP/Senior Corps. The corps is a nationwide volunteer program that invites those 55 and older to use their life experience and skills to help neighbors in need. El Dorado's corps serves Columbia, Ouachita and Union counties. In 2018, volunteers gave 50,039 service hours. Those interested should call 870-864-7080.