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Senior Showcase 2022

12 September 2022
Senior Showcase Pickleball

By Susan Hickey

A little friendly competition is good for the soul, right? I think that applies to all ages. It certainly applies to our senior members of the Dayton YMCA who will be participating in our annual Senior Showcase this month! 

The Senior Showcase is an event comprised of various competitive activities for the 55+ set. There is something for everyone, from physical events (for example, 1 mile walk, Frisbee throw) to games (Euchre, checkers) to cognitive challenges (music trivia). Popular activities like pickleball, line dancing, and cornhole are also happening. Several other events are scheduled.

The YMCA Senior Showcase is a great way to promote physical and mental fitness in our senior membership. Plenty of research exists that documents the importance of physical activity in fall prevention and overall improved quality of life.  Keeping the mind challenged through mental games is key to maintaining independence in the community as long as possible. This abstract published in the International Journal of Human Movement and Sport Science provides many more details as to the benefits of events like the Senior Showcase for the older population – with a few listed below:

  • Reduction in VO2max age-related decline (a measure of oxygen consumption)
  • Prevention of cancer, diabetes, heart disease and hip fractures
  • Possible cognitive benefits including decreased incidence of dementia.

Additionally, older adults who are more active have the potential to influence younger people (i.e. grandkids, nieces and nephews) to participate in sports events, which promotes overall health through the generations as well as bonding experiences for families.

This year’s Senior Showcase takes place at the Xenia YMCA September 19-22.  The pickleball showcase was held in early August at the Preble County branch.  It’s too late to register for this year’s event, but it’s free to members to come watch.  Members of all ages might consider coming to spectate to learn more about it.  It is a fantastic opportunity for seniors to mingle with like minded active YMCA members.  It’s free to participate as well.  See the website for the complete list of events here.  Keep it in mind for next year, signups will begin in the spring!