By Kathy DeMott
Pastor Greg Culver from Vicksburg United Methodist Church and Brian Penny, senior outreach coordinator at South County Community Services, have a vision to decrease loneliness among local seniors.
They’re looking for partners to share the vision.
After reading about the negative impact on health because of loneliness and seeing it in our community, Greg was further inspired by watching “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” a documentary series, on Netflix.
According to Wikipedia, “Blue zones are regions in the world where people are claimed to live, or to have recently lived, longer than average. The notion is not based on scientific evidence but demographic anecdotes.”
These communities tend to eat more healthily while remaining physically active. They promote having a purpose in life at all stages. They remain socially active with family, friends, faith communities, and doing things for the common good. They practice good habits that contribute to positivity. Such older adults enjoy more socialization as an integral part of their daily routine.
A report posted on the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) points out that more than one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated.
Older adults are at increased risk for loneliness and social isolation because they are more likely to face living alone, the loss of family or friends, chronic illness, and hearing loss.
“VUMC has a generously sized facility that is being underutilized,” Greg said. “Wouldn’t it be great for the community to provide a place for older adults to socialize and enhance relationships? Loneliness is a health crisis. The latter stages of life should be more abundant than what they seemingly are. We are located right in the heart of Vicksburg with a gym, plenty of classroom space, internet, a commercial kitchen. The building is handicapped accessible and is itching to serve people’s real needs.”
Brian has worked with seniors for more than 20 years and understands that being socially active gives people a sense of belonging which can improve emotional, mental, and physical wellness. He is concerned that the growing number of older Americans are being isolated. There are a lack of affordable senior housing and places that honor their wisdom.
Brian and Greg have been brain-storming about activities to support the 55+ community. VUMC currently hosts drop-in pickleball in the Family Life Center on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30. The South County Senior’s “Pace Maker’s” Walking Group will also meet there for the Tuesday activities from 10-11 a.m. during the winter months. They are envisioning additional activities such as games like bridge, euchre and exercise classes such as chair yoga. They would eventually like to host educational lunch & learns on compelling topics and resources.
Brian, Greg, as well as Drew Johnson, South County Community Services’ executive director, would like to invite other brainstormers to come together to share the vision, suggest ideas, and partner in strengthening senior adult service. Those who would like to learn more, suggest ideas, and help support the vision of a non-church affiliated senior center in Vicksburg, can join them at the church on Wednesday January 10 at 3 p.m. Words of wisdom and encouragement may also be emailed either to Brian (bpenny@southcountycs.com) or Greg (pastor@vicksburgumc.org).
VUMC is hosting a French Toast Dinner during Christmas in the Burg on Saturday December 9 from 4-6 p.m.