Whether you’ve lived in Spartanburg for many years or have recently retired to the area, you’ve likely fallen in love with the city’s beauty and Southern hospitality. But you may not be aware of how much in Spartanburg is available to seniors specifically. Read on to learn about some of the senior resources and opportunities Spartanburg has to offer!
Senior-Focused Programs and Classes
There are many opportunities for seniors in Spartanburg to stay engaged and involved. Fifty Upstate, a Spartanburg County organization aimed at giving seniors in the area a full and engaged life, has an initiative called Fifty Firsts. The idea behind this program is that there’s no reason to stop experiencing new things as you age! Check out Fifty Upstate’s list of suggested “firsts,” including trying a DIY project at the Spark Space and pursuing lifelong learning at Wofford College.
The Spartanburg County Parks Department also has a full roster of activities for seniors. For example, the department organizes group trips for seniors — there’s still time to join an outing to Biltmore on March 25! And keep an eye out on the main trips page for a spring/summer trips schedule. For those looking for a more relaxed, close-to-home activity, there’s a free game club that meets Mondays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Also, be sure to check out the Shepherd’s Center of Spartanburg, whose mission is “to provide programs that promote active and healthy lifestyles for seniors age 50+.” The Shepherd’s Center posts an activity calendar every month. Programs they offer include classes in French and Spanish and arts and crafts lessons.
Senior-Friendly Physical Activity
There are many health benefits to staying physically active as we age. But it can be difficult to know what exercise is appropriate as we get older, and the thought of working out alone can be depressing. Not to worry! There are many senior resources in Spartanburg that are specifically geared toward staying active.
Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System (SRHS) offers free recurring classes for seniors. Stay Active and Independent for Life (SAIL) is a one-hour class that focuses on strength and balance and is designed to decrease the risk of falls. SRHS also puts on Focus After 50 events, during which local experts give presentations about senior resources and wellness. These events sometimes include a physical activity component, such as the Let’s Go for a Walk event in April.
If you’re looking for something a little more structured, local gym 10 Star Fitness offers multiple training options. Its Fit After 50 programs, “created specifically for those over 50, are designed to minimize stress on your joints and back while toning your physique and giving you more energy along the way.” Contact the gym to speak to someone about joining a group class with your fellow active seniors or even to look into personal training — it’s not just for young bodybuilders!
For those interested in participating in a group class several times a week but not quite up to joining a gym, Silver Sneakers might be just the thing. This low-impact fitness class is adjustable based on your individual ability level and meets three times a week at Inman First Baptist Church. Under some health plans, the class is free; for those not covered, it’s $24 per month. Spartanburg County Parks Department has even more options for physical activity, including group walks the last Friday of every month and even a senior softball league.
Assistance and Senior Care
One perk of that Southern hospitality Spartanburg is known for: There are plenty of people nearby who want to help. Seniors who need meal assistance can contact Mobile Meals, a faith-based organization founded in Spartanburg that also provides pastoral care for those who want it. SENIOR Solutions also offers meal delivery, along with services such as transportation assistance and group dining options.
Of course, there may come a time when the difficulties of living at home, even with local assistance, outweigh the benefits. If your family is experiencing this or you think the time for a transition may be coming soon, we’re here to help. At Eden Terrace, our mission is to provide the highest possible quality of life for seniors in Spartanburg, from assisted living to dementia care. Visit us today to learn how we can help you make the most of aging in Spartanburg.