Senior Center expands programming
In 2008, Georgia Murphy was among many retirees who met with the Greater Starkville Development Partnership to discuss ways to enhance the quality of life for residents. Through this discussion, the need for social space for senior citizens rose to the surface.
“I just wanted something to do when we moved here, and I just though a senior center would be a great way to connect and stay active. Many other people shared that same vision.”
Murphy's and others' dream became a reality when the Golden Triangle Planning and Development District offered a space at its office building that would become the Senior Enrichment Center.
Located at 106 Miley Drive, the building's large front room quickly became the social hot spot for local retirees.
“This place became the hub for many senior citizens to par
ticipate in activities, visit, volunteer, make friends, share and have a safe place to go to get out of the house every now and then,” Murphy said.
However, the once lively center's actives, Murphy noted, have dwindled, leaving an average of 25 participants visiting throughout the day.
“We used to have extensive programs, but many people have quit coming,” Murphy said. “We want to get people coming again, even if it is just to pop in for a while, have a snack and leave.”
With former attendees having either died or being unable to leave the house, Murphy said she has been heartbroken watching the once lively community dissipate, especially after having seen how the center can make a difference in senior's lives.
“One lady, who had a son living in Starkville, moved here from another state after her husband's death,” Murphy said. “She said the Senior Center was a godsend that helped her make friends and get involved in her new community. Another person, who cared for a bed-ridden relative, came to the Senior Center regularly to take a break from the tedium of daily responsibility.”
Murphy, determined to revitalize the center, has recently sent out a survey to seniors in the community to see what events or activities would appeal to them.
“I don't know what people would like, but we would love to provide those events,” Murphy said. “The questionnaires that I have gotten back said they would like to see presentations on food prep, healthy eating and growing vegetables.”
Since having speakers visit the center is not a physically demanding activity for seniors, Murphy said they have been regularly incorporating presentations into their programming.
Mary Dozier, an assistant professor at Mississippi State University, will be speaking at the center Thursday at 1 p.m. on hoarding.
“She will be discussing how it happens and how to avoid it, as well as how to solve it,” Murphy said. “I feel like this is something that we could all find use from.”
Murphy said they plan to bring more speakers to the center but are still having a regular open social period from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. during the week.
“Please consider visiting the Senior Center in the afternoons to chat and enjoy a light snack,” Murphy said. “You might play a table game such as Mexican Dominoes, Hand & Foot, Skip-bo, Go, Uno, Scrabble or a game of your choice that you share with us.”
Wednesday is also craft day, Murphy noted, when different crafts are available. Alongside crafting and games, Murphy said puzzles are also a popular choice.
“There is always one being constructed in the center that you can help with, or you might want to check out a puzzle from the huge puzzle library to take home and enjoy,” Murphy said. “No matter what, I think it is really good for retired people to get out and be with other people.”
For more information about the center or to offer programming suggestions, call (662) 324-1965 and leave a message for Georgia Murphy.