Students get involved with Senior Games 

How did you get involved with Piedmont Plus Senior Games? What are your responsibilities at the games?

I got involved with the PPSG through one of my courses, Health-Related Functional Aspects of Gerontology; which has taught me to become more sensitive to the physical changes that can come with advancing age. At the games, I have helped pass out the winners medals for bowling, and have attended training sessions to learn how to score horseshoes and bocce. I plan to help score shuffleboard and volunteer at the Silver Arts portion as well.

What interests you about PPSG?

The PPSG is interesting because it is a completely new experience for me and I think it is a great way for older adults to participate in activities that they enjoy and interact with other people from similar age cohorts.

How long have you been participating and will you continue to participate?

This is my first time participating with the PPSG. I have enjoyed my experience and I do in fact, plan to participate again next year.

Have you learned anything? If so, what?

Being a volunteer with the PPSG has confirmed the fact that older adults are still capable of engaging in physical activities and excel in them.

What advice would you give to incoming and future volunteers?

My advice to future volunteers would be to have fun, engage yourself with others and never underestimate the capabilities of the participants.

“If anyone knows of an older adult who might be interested in participating in the PPSG, I would highly encourage them to get involved. It is an excellent way to not only be physically active but to be active socially in the community.”

– Brittany Carpenter, Junior at WSSU, First Year PPSG Volunteer

How did you get involved with PPSG? What are your responsibilities at the games? 

I got involved with PPSG as a volunteer during one of my Gerontology courses (Health Related Functional Aspects of Gerontology) taught by Dr. Deborah Farmer at WSSU.

My responsibilities at the games are to help with judging and scoring during senior games competitions.  

What interests you about PPSG?

PPSG promotes physical activity for seniors. It is one of the most efficient ways for older adults including those with disabilities to exercise. They encourage seniors to take responsibility for their health while enjoying sportsmanship. PPSG provides opportunities for seniors to socialize, develop networks and enhance their quality of life.

How long have you been participating and will you continue to participate?

I have been participating since 2012. As a Gerontologist, I plan to continue to participate with senior games in 2014 and beyond.

Have you learned anything? If so, what?

Seniors are very serious about competitions. They take a lot of time to prepare for the games. They look forward to receiving medals which gives them sense of accomplishment for their efforts.

What advice would you give to incoming and future volunteers?

Get involved and make a difference in the lives of our seniors. Your help will provide a sense of caring and strengthen the confidence of seniors.

“We are the seniors of tomorrow. Let us support seniors in any way possible and teach young people how we care for seniors so that they too will support and care for us when we become seniors.”
– Marina Howard, Senior at WSSU, Second Year PPSG Volunteer