Excelsior Springs, Mo. – At the Excelsior Springs Senior Center, a weekly Wii Bowling game does more than rack up high scores; it brings together seniors for exercise, laughter, and community. For many, it’s become a joyful part of their routine and a reason to keep showing up, week after week.
Zoey Bush, a senior center employee, mentioned that the all-inclusive activity for seniors has been a key part of the center since before the COVID-19 pandemic. It includes low-impact exercise, socializing, building relationships, and some friendly competition.
“About seven to nine people participate interchangeably, with four core players who are always in attendance,” Bush said. Those who attend regularly each week include Barbara Cashette, Phebe Corn, and Carolyn Teagarden. Cashette, according to staff and other Wii Bowling players, admits she is one of the best players who attend the weekly activity as well as a pro at throwing strikes outside of the virtual game. “I used to bowl every day and loved it,” Cashette admitted, “My average was 165 points a game.”
Today, she is virtually navigating the console and controls for bowling, adapting to using her left hand due to tendon issues in her right hand. Still, she is able to throw strikes and pick up spares, earning her the top score at the Senior Center with an impressive 290. Although the activity can bring out a competitive nature, it isn’t just about the high score. It also fosters a sense of community and human connection. During gameplay, participants cheer each other on, creating a supportive and lively atmosphere.
Corn, who has been playing Wii Bowling for the last six months, added that she simply enjoys the friendly competition while cheering on other bowlers and has even beaten Cashette on occasion, but it was no small feat given her skill level. Jeff Barge, the senior center coordinator, has also contributed to the weekly excitement with years of experience working with the senior population. He recognized the potential of Wii Bowling as an interactive activity that combines low-impact exercise.
Bush added, “Jeff has helped introduce many participants to the game, and he also offers tips and encouragement for everyone wanting to play.” The Wii Bowling activity at the center uses the original Nintendo Wii console, a game system with a variety of games designed to get people off the couch and on their feet. According to EBSCO.org’s Sports and Leisure section, the unique controller with motion sensors was created to enable players to move physically, making gaming accessible to a wider audience, including those who don’t play video games regularly.
However, for those who participate in the weekly Wii Bowling activity, it provides a sense of entertainment, social engagement, and even achievement. Corn described her experience as simply enjoying a moment of joy while also getting exercise in the process. Overall, the group’s skill level during gameplay shows their passion for the game, with each participant scoring over 100 points each game. “If you don’t break 100, why even play?” added Corn, echoing a common bowling sentiment. As for Teagarden, she said Wii Bowling is simply “fun.”
For community members interested in participating, Wii Bowling will be held every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for those 60 and older, or anyone aged 18-59 with physical or mental challenges. For information on other activities and services at the ESSC, visit https://www.es-prcc.com/senior-center.
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