Volunteer Opportunities Abound at Empath Health

The SS United States: A Legendary Ocean Liners Final Chapter in Mobile, AlabamaFor decades, the SS United States was the pinnacle of American innovation, a sleek, steel-clad symbol of speed and luxury that ruled the high seas. Now, after years of uncertainty, this legendary ocean liner has found a temporary home in Mobile, Alabama, where it will undergo preparations for its final transformationbecoming the worlds largest artificial reef.As of March 28, 2025, the ship sits docked at the Port of Mobile, a ghost of its former grandeur but still commanding awe. Its arrival has sparked excitement, nostalgia, and even a bit of controversy as preservationists scramble for a last-minute rescue. But love it or mourn it, the SS United States is embarking on its final journey, and Mobile is playing a crucial role in its farewell.The Glory Days: Speed, Luxury, and Hollywood FameLaunched in 1952, the SS United States also known as the Big U was an engineering marvel. Built in Newport News, Virginia, it was designed to be both a luxury ocean liner and a secret military asset, capable of transforming into a troop transport if needed with the ability to carry 14,000 troops 10,000 miles without refueling. On its maiden voyage, it shattered records, crossing the Atlantic in just three days, 10 hours, and 40 minutesa feat no other passenger ship has beaten to this day.For nearly two decades, it was the way to travel between the United States and Europe. Celebrities, dignitaries, and socialites graced its decks, reveling in its opulent design and unparalleled speed. Hollywood took notice, too. The ship made memorable appearances in films like Disneys 1962 classic Bon Voyage!, where it served as the glamorous setting for a family adventure, and 1955s Gentlemen Marry Brunettes, where its sleek profile played a starring role. Even in 2013, the thriller Dead Man Down used the SS United States for atmospheric shots while it was docked in Philadelphia.But the golden age of ocean liners was not meant to last. By 1969, the rise of jet travel rendered transatlantic crossings obsolete, and the SS United States was retiredmarking the beginning of a long, uncertain future.From Neglect to New PurposeFor decades, the once-proud liner sat idle in Philadelphia, rusting away as preservation efforts struggled to secure funding. Dreams of transforming it into a hotel, museum, or entertainment venue never materialized. Then, in 2024, a decision was made: Okaloosa County, Florida, would purchase the vessel and repurpose it as an artificial reefa $10 million project that would give the ship a new purpose beneath the waves of the Gulf of America.Thus began the ships 401st and final voyage. On February 19, 2025, it was towed 1,800 nautical miles from Philadelphia to Mobile, arriving ahead of schedule on March 3. Spectators lined the waterfront, watching as the once-glorious ocean liner, now a shell of its former self, was guided into port.A Temporary Stay in MobileNow docked at Modern American Recycling Services (MARS), the SS United States is undergoing extensive preparation before its submersion. Over the next six to twelve months, crews will strip the ship of non-metal materials, wiring, and hazardous components, ensuring it is environmentally safe. Holes will be carefully cut into the hull so that when it is finally submerged, it settles uprightproviding a thriving habitat for grouper, snapper, and tuna.While many celebrate this transformation as a fitting second life, preservationists arent giving up without a fight. Organizations like the SS United States Conservancy continue to push for an alternative, hoping to turn the ship into a floating museum akin to the USS Alabama in Mobile Bay. A Tourist Boom in MobileRegardless of its fate, the SS United States has already left an impact on Mobiles tourism scene. Locals and visitors alike are flocking to catch a glimpse of this historic ship before it disappears beneath the ocean. Harbor cruises aboard the Perdido Queen and tours through Blakeley State Park have sold out quickly with maritime enthusiasts eager to snap photos and reflect on the ships remarkable past and those looking to explore Mobiles deep connections to the sea.The Final GoodbyeDespite the nostalgia, the clock is ticking. Soon, the SS United States will make its last journey, not to another port, but to the ocean floor off the coast of Florida. Once there, it will begin its final rolenot as a fading relic, but as a vibrant, living reef, fostering marine life for generations to come. For now, as it looms over the Port of Mobile, it remains a towering testament to American ingenuity, ambition, and the fleeting nature of technological supremacy. Whether you see it as a tragic loss or a poetic new beginning, one thing is certain: the legacy of the SS United States will live onabove the waves, beneath the ocean, and in the hearts of those who remember its glory.

Pickleball has emerged as a beloved sport for seniors, offering many benefits for their physical, social, and cognitive well-being. So, whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner looking for a new hobby, consider embracing pickleball as a game-changer for your overall health and happiness in your golden years.As we age, staying physically active becomes essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and enjoying more vitality and well-being. Fortunately, there is a sport that has gained popularity among seniors in recent yearspickleball. Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, offering numerous benefits for older adults. From improving cardiovascular health to fostering social connections, this low-impact sport has proven to be a game-changer for seniors seeking an enjoyable and accessible way to stay fit. Let's delve into the world of pickleball and explore the benefits for older individuals. Low-Impact Exercise One of the most significant advantages of pickleball for seniors is its low-impact nature. Unlike high-impact sports like running or basketball, pickleball places less stress on joints, reducing the risk of injuries and joint pain. The game is played on a smaller court, requiring less lateral movement and putting less strain on the knees, hips, and ankles. The low-impact nature of the game makes pickleball an ideal choice for seniors with arthritis or those recovering from joint-related surgeries.Furthermore, the game's slower pace allows seniors to build endurance gradually while engaging in a moderate-intensity workout. Combining aerobic and anaerobic movements in pickleball enhances cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens the heart. Regular sessions help seniors improve their overall fitness levels, stamina, and balance, reducing the likelihood of falls and enhancing their independence. Social Interaction and CommunityPickleball is more than just a sport; it's a social activity that fosters connections among seniors. Many communities and retirement centers now offer pickleball facilities, bringing people together to play and socialize. The game's doubles format encourages teamwork, communication, and camaraderie, making it an excellent opportunity for seniors to meet new people and develop lasting friendships. Playing pickleball promotes a sense of belonging and community involvement, which can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Seniors who participate in pickleball leagues or join clubs often report increased happiness and improved overall quality of life. Cognitive BenefitsPickleball isn't just a physical workout; it also offers numerous cognitive benefits for seniors. The game requires strategy, quick thinking, and hand-eye coordination, stimulating the brain and promoting mental agility. Regular pickleball play can enhance cognitive function, memory, and problem-solving skills, reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Moreover, pickleball provides a unique opportunity for seniors to engage in continuous learning. Whether learning new techniques, refining their shots, or adapting their gameplay, seniors can continuously challenge themselves and expand their skill set. This mental stimulation contributes to maintaining a sharp mind and a sense of accomplishment. Pickleball has emerged as a beloved sport for seniors, offering many benefits for their physical, social, and cognitive well-being. The low-impact nature of the game allows seniors to remain active without putting excessive strain on their bodies. The social aspect of pickleball fosters a sense of community and combats social isolation. Additionally, the cognitive demands of the game help seniors stay mentally sharp and agile. So, whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner looking for a new hobby, consider embracing pickleball as a game-changer for your overall health and happiness in your golden years. Get on the court and start experiencing the remarkable advantages of pickleball today! Comfort Keepers Can HelpCaring for others and ourselves can take a lot of thought and preparation as we age. Our Comfort Keeperscan help encourage seniors to meet activity guidelines, recommend ways to add more physical activity to their day, and can help to motivate a senior to stay active. Our trained caregivers can provide transportation to a local park, a trail, or greenways to enjoy a walk together or watch a pickleball game. Caregivers can drive clients to scheduled doctor appointments, provide mobility assistance and meal preparation, and help with activities of daily living. We believe in Elevating the Human Spirit by providing our clients with practical assistance and daily moments of joy. By giving equal parts compassion, attention, and comfort, our goal is to help seniors feel independent again while promoting good health to enjoy their days. ResourcesNational Library of Medicine (NIH): Pickleball: Injury Considerations in an Increasingly Popular SportAmerican Institute for Preventive Medicine: What can the Well-Being Industry Learn from Pickleball?Medical University of South Carolina: Pickleball: Fastest Growing Sport Especially for Seniors

Some of the best time spent together is simply talking and connecting. Whether its chatting over a board game, making dinner, or watching a favorite movie together, having go-to activities are great fool-proof ideas to spend time with loved ones. But it can also be refreshing and fun to shake up your routine by incorporating new ideas. These fun ideas for caregivers and families focus on activities to do with seniors. Some are free or affordable, others may require some planning ahead, but all ideas can be done at home, together or apart, to bring joy and make new memories.Have a spelling bee; really challenge yourselfRead suspense or romance novels out loudOrder an herb garden online, and watch it growOrder supplies to garden in a potOrder supplies from an online crafts store for your loved ones favorite hobby or something fun and newHave your senior narrate parts of their life for you. Write down the memories and create a booklet with photos for you all to cherish.Picnic in the backyard or insideFashion show at homeWatch favorite classic moviesWatch classic TV shows from childhood together and talk about itHave fun with adult coloring booksPaint by numbers Read your horoscope every dayMake a Sundae bar at homeGather items to donateOrganize a room, a drawer or closetPhone or video calls with familyLook at old albums and yearbooksTry scrap bookingWatching the Travel Channel or History Channel Voice journalingCreate a recipe book for the familyHave fun with Snapchat filtersWatch documentariesHave a culture day. Watch a foreign film and cook a meal Play online BingoPut together a collagePlay CharadesHave a formal teaMake origamiPress flowersMake greeting cardsOrder supplies and paint rocksTry a new food or restaurantWatch old music videosStart corresponding with a pen palListen to music favorites; make a playlistDownload a new podcast or audiobookMake a family treeMake a time capsule