Published: May 26, 2009 01:54 pm      

Never too old to go for the gold in Southern Indiana

Annual Senior Games get started this week

The annual Senior Games are set to start Thursday in Southern Indiana, and the benefits go beyond exercise and interaction for some of the area’s older residents.

Any Southern Indiana person 55 years or older is eligible to participate in the seven-day event put on by Lifespan Resources. It will raise money for the organization’s many associate groups — such as Meals on Wheels — that provide assistance for seniors in the area.

“This will be the 23rd year for [the games],” said Lifespan development director Julie Wilson, who coordinates the event. “It gives the participants a chance to compete, socialize and make new friends.”

Seniors can participate in a variety of events, including a bake-off, bingo, a dance contest, fishing, golf, horseshoes and bowling, just to list a few. The events will be held at various locations. Southern Indiana Rehab Hospital will be hosting the Toss ‘Em event.

“[Southern Indiana Rehab Hospital] has teamed up with [Lifespan] because they support our senior community,” senior manager Barbara Mackovic said.

The bean bag game Toss ‘Em will take place from 1:30 to 4 June 3 at Southern Indiana Rehab, 3104 Blackiston Blvd. in New Albany.

Wilson feels the games serve an important purpose for those eligible participate.

“There are so few things available to [the senior community],” Wilson said. “This is like a huge family reunion. It provides [fun] and camaraderie.”