Celebration of
2021
By Kelly Wheeler
2021 proved to be a more productive year for seniors as centers began to open back up throughout the U . S ., Alabama , and Cullman County after over a year hiatus due to the Covid 19 pandemic .
Senior Centers in Cullman County officially opened back on June 1 , with events kicking off into full swing .
Many were very thankful to be back and active because there are many benefits to an active lifestyle .
Engaging in social and productive activities you enjoy , while taking an art class or becoming a volunteer at a senior center in the community , often helps maintain your well-being .
Through photos , let us take a look at a variety of events planned for Cullman County seniors that allowed him or her to once again remain active and fellowship with others their age ; whether it Cullman County Retiree & Senior Health Fair , Senior Day at the Fair , Senior Day at Oktoberfest , various events planned at local senior centers , or the Cullman County Senior & Retiree Christmas party .
Research tells us that older people with an active lifestyle :
• Are less likely to develop certain diseases . Participating in hobbies and other social and leisure pursuits may lower risk for developing some health problems , including dementia .
• Have a longer lifespan . One study showed that older adults who reported taking part in social activities ( such as playing games , belonging to social groups , or traveling ) or meaningful , productive activities ( such as having a paid or unpaid job , or gardening ) lived longer than people who did not . Researchers are further exploring this connection .
• Are happier and less depressed . Studies suggest that older adults who participate in what they believe are meaningful activities , like volunteering in their communities , say they feel happier and healthier . One study placed older adults from an urban community in their neighborhood public elementary schools to tutor children 15 hours a week . Volunteers reported personal satisfaction from the experience . The researchers found it improved the volunteers ’ cognitive and physical health , as well as the children ’ s school success . Researchers think it might also have long-term benefits , lowering the older adults ’ risk of developing disability , dependency , and dementia in later life .
• Are better prepared to cope with loss . Studies suggest that volunteering can help with stress and depression from the death of a spouse or other loved one . Among people who experienced a loss , those who took part in volunteer activities felt more positive about their own abilities ( reported greater self-efficiency ).
• May be able to improve their thinking abilities . Another line of research is exploring how participating in creative arts might help people age well . For example , studies have shown that older adults ’ memory comprehension , creativity , and problem-solving abilities improved after an intensive , four-week ( eightsession ) acting course . Other studies are providing new information about ways that creative activities like music or dance can help older adults .
44 | SPRING 2022 CULLMAN COUNTY SENIOR MAGAZINE