Pickleball is taking senior communities by storm across the nation. It is one of the trendiest activities for seniors. In fact, you may even being to see it at a local Waupaca senior living community. This up-and-coming sport is good for seniors who need a new way to stay active.
What is Pickleball?
At Park Vista, our Waupaca assisted living facility is fascinated with history, so let’s start with a little bit about Pickleball. In 1965, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum set out to create a new game that would entertain their kids over the long summer months. Together, they combined the rules and gameplay of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, to create a new, family-friendly sport.
Pritchard’s wife, Joan, said the mashup of concepts from multiple games reminded her of a pickle boat, where oarsmen from different rowing teams are thrown together into one boat. Thus, the name “pickleball” was born. So sorry if you were hoping that pickles were actually involved.
How do you play?
Since this game is becoming popular, and something you might see at a Waupaca assisted living facility, our staff at Park Vista looked up the rules for the game. The structure is relatively simple. If you play any sport that involves a racket, you will pick this up right away. The game is on a court the same size as badminton, and players hit a plastic ball over the net. Points are scored in games of 11, 15, and 21, and the opposing team must win by 2 points.
Why Should a Waupaca Senior Living Community be Interested in Pickleball?
Exercise improves health and well-being, so pickleball may lower depression and improve fitness for some residents. Because the game is played on a court smaller than tennis, there tends to be less exertion. This will make it safer for residents at an assisted living facility in Waupaca.
Pickleball may be an entertaining way for older adults to maintain an active lifestyle as they age. Any physical activity for seniors will improve their mental health as well as their social well-being. Cognitive function may also be improved.
Healthy Competition
Being competitive is healthy at any age, and the desire to play a game of Pickleball just for the simple idea of winning may be just the thing to bring seniors out of their living space and onto a pickleball court. The game has a unique combination of ease of play and focus on community and gives seniors a great opportunity to try a whole new ballgame.
Ready to Play
The best thing about Pickleball is that it is a way to start. All you need is a net, a few balls, and some paddles. So grab your friends that live at an independent living facility in Waupaca and grab a pickleball set!
Are You Looking for One of the Top Independent Living Facilities in Waupaca?
At Park Vista, a leading Waupaca senior living community, our staff is dedicated to ensuring you or your loved one receives the best possible care. We recognize the importance of security and safety for our residents and their families. Our facility and programs are designed around keeping everyone happy, healthy, and safe.