Senior citizens enjoy "Wii Bit of Fun"

Last Fall, the Mountain Home Parks and Recreation Department and the Mountain Home Public Library began the Wii Bit of Fun program for senior citizens to socialize while playing the Nintendo Wii game at the Mountain Home Senior Center.

According to lead organizer and marketing coordinator for Parks and Recreation, Crystal Anderson, the program was created to provide senior citizens with a low-impact exercise activity.

"It keeps them active, with low impact exercises and helps them socialize with members of the same age," said Anderson.

During Wii Bit of Fun, the players could play Wii Sports, a collection of interactive games that include baseball, boxing, tennis and the players' favorite sports, golf and bowling.

In the future, Anderson plans to include additional interactive sports from archery, figure skating, motor cross and skiing.

The seniors also take part in Wii Fit, an interactive exercise game, where the seniors take part in various exercises, such as yoga and several drills to test their strength and balance endurance.

During a recent session of Wii Bit of Fun, two players, Mary Carpenter and Magadalene French, shared their views on the interactive gaming program.

"A lot of us aren't able to play physical sports, this is the best way for us to play these sports and get our exercise too. We really enjoy it," said Carpenter.

"It's great for exercise and it's a lot of fun," said French.

The Wii Bit of Fun is held during the second and fourth Friday of every month, starting at 1-3 p.m.

For more information on the Wii Bit of Fun program, contact Crystal Anderson at 587-2112.