Staying involved in community life can support physical health, emotional well-being, confidence, and a sense of purpose. Activities also provide opportunities to learn, make friends, share experience, and contribute to the community.

There is no single right way to stay connected. Some people enjoy large events and group activities; others prefer a class, volunteer assignment, walking partner, book group, or regular telephone conversation. Start with something that fits your interests, schedule, comfort level, and abilities.

Moore County Senior Enrichment Center

The Moore County Senior Enrichment Center offers activities designed to encourage learning, recreation, physical activity, and social connection.

Programs and events may include:

• Arts and crafts
• Games and social activities
• Educational presentations
• Music and entertainment
• Fitness and movement classes
• Clubs and special-interest groups
• Health and wellness programs
• Seasonal celebrations
• Trips and special events
• Volunteer opportunities

The Center also has a multipurpose recreation room with a two-lane indoor walking track, shuffleboard, cornhole, and table tennis.

Senior Center activities are available to Moore County residents age 50 and older. Programs, fees, and schedules vary.

Visit the Moore County Senior Center Activities page to view the current newsletter, activity calendar, fitness calendar, and registration information.

For assistance, call the Moore County Department of Aging at 910-947-4483.

Pinehurst Parks and Recreation

Pinehurst Parks and Recreation offers activities for a variety of ages, interests, and abilities. Programs may include:

• Fitness and exercise
• Athletics
• Arts and crafts
• Cooking
• Special events and festivals
• Senior programming
• Special-needs programming
• Indoor and outdoor recreation

Village recreation programs are open to Moore County residents. View current offerings, schedules, fees, and registration information at PinehurstRec.org.

Free equipment checkout may be available during business hours at the Parks and Recreation office for activities such as pickleball, shuffleboard, bocce, and horseshoes.

For information, call Pinehurst Parks and Recreation at 910-295-2817.

Clubs, Classes and Lifelong Learning

Learning does not end with school or retirement. Classes and interest groups can provide mental stimulation while making it easier to meet people with similar interests.

Consider exploring:

• Book or discussion groups
• History and current-events programs
• Art, music, theater, or writing
• Gardening and nature
• Cooking
• Technology instruction
• Card and board games
• Language learning
• Local-history programs
• Financial, health, or safety workshops
• Exercise and movement classes

The Given Memorial Library and Tufts Archives offer library services, educational resources, local-history information, and community programming. Check the Village calendar and local activity guides for upcoming opportunities.

When trying something new, consider attending with a friend the first time. If you go alone, introduce yourself to the instructor or organizer and let them know that you are new. Many groups are pleased to help a first-time participant feel welcome.

Volunteering

Volunteering can provide purpose, routine, social connection, and an opportunity to use a lifetime of skills and experience.

Volunteer roles may involve:

• Libraries, museums, and archives
• Community events
• Parks and environmental projects
• Food and nutrition programs
• Hospitals and healthcare organizations
• Faith communities
• Schools and youth programs
• Animal-welfare organizations
• Public boards and advisory committees
• Telephone reassurance or friendly visiting
• Administrative or behind-the-scenes work

The Moore County Senior Volunteer Program helps adults age 50 and older find service opportunities with agencies and organizations throughout the county. Call 910-947-4483 for information.

The Village also posts Pinehurst volunteer opportunities, including opportunities associated with community events, boards, committees, and Village programs.

Before committing, ask about the schedule, physical requirements, training, transportation, background checks, and accessibility. It is perfectly reasonable to begin with a short-term or occasional assignment.

Intergenerational Connection

Activities that bring different generations together allow participants to exchange skills, stories, perspectives, and encouragement.

Possible opportunities include:

• Reading or tutoring programs
• Mentoring
• Sharing career or military experience
• Oral-history and local-history projects
• Arts, gardening, cooking, or music activities
• Technology assistance
• Community-service projects
• Neighborhood or faith-community events
• Attending performances, games, or festivals with younger relatives or neighbors

Intergenerational connection works in both directions. Older adults can share knowledge and experience, while younger participants may offer new perspectives, energy, companionship, and technical skills.

Schools, libraries, faith communities, nonprofit organizations, recreation departments, and volunteer programs may offer opportunities. Ask whether training, screening, or a regular time commitment is required.

Senior Games in the Pines

Senior Games in the Pines provides athletic and creative opportunities in a friendly, supportive environment.

The local program is co-hosted by the Moore County Senior Enrichment Center and the parks and recreation departments of Aberdeen, Moore County, Pinehurst, and Southern Pines.

Activities may vary from year to year and can include events for different interests and skill levels. Participation is not limited to highly experienced athletes. Residents interested in creative activities should also ask about available arts events.

For current information, contact Pinehurst Parks and Recreation at 910-295-2817.

Accessible and Lower-Impact Activities

Health conditions, disabilities, limited mobility, hearing or vision loss, and concerns about falling do not have to prevent community participation. Many activities can be adapted.

Options may include:

• Chair-based exercise
• Sit-and-stretch or gentle movement classes
• Indoor walking
• Tai chi
• Water-based activity
• Arts, crafts, music, and games
• Lectures and discussion groups
• Telephone or online programs
• Seated volunteer assignments
• Activities with shorter time commitments
• Programs using adaptive equipment

Before registering, contact the program organizer and ask:

• Is the building entrance accessible?
• Is accessible parking available?
• Are restrooms accessible?
• How much standing or walking is required?
• Can the activity be performed while seated?
• Is the lighting or sound appropriate for my needs?
• May I bring a mobility device, support person, or service animal?
• Are large-print materials, hearing assistance, or other accommodations available?

Pinehurst Parks and Recreation can provide information about the requirements of its programs and the accessibility of Village facilities. Call 910-295-2817 before visiting if you need a particular accommodation.

Simple Ways to Become More Connected

Joining a new group can feel uncomfortable, especially after retirement, a move, the death of a spouse, illness, or a long period at home. Start small.

• Choose one activity related to an existing interest.
• Attend the same activity several times so faces become familiar.
• Invite a neighbor or friend to join you.
• Introduce yourself to the organizer.
• Volunteer for a small task.
• Schedule a regular telephone call, walk, or meal.
• Try a short-term class before making a longer commitment.
• Ask about transportation if getting there is difficult.
• Give yourself permission to try something different if the first group is not a good fit.

If loneliness, sadness, anxiety, or loss of interest continues or begins affecting daily life, speak with a healthcare professional or visit the Brain & Emotional Health section of this website.

Support for Caregivers

Caregivers are welcome to use the programs and resources on this page for their own well-being. Taking time for social connection, education, exercise, or rest is an important part of sustaining a caregiving role.

Information about respite, support groups, care planning, and caregiver services should be provided in the separate Caregiving & Planning Ahead section. The Moore County Department of Aging can also connect families with its Family Caregiver Program and other appropriate services.

Not Sure Where to Begin?

Call the Moore County Department of Aging at 910-947-4483 and ask about current activities or services that match your interests and needs.

For Pinehurst recreation programs, facilities, and accommodations, call Pinehurst Parks and Recreation at 910-295-2817.