Now Henry is training for this year’s games, starting May 31 in Memphis.

Henry, who served from 1981 to 1995, turned to sports at the urging of a Department of Veterans Affairs whole health nurse who was concerned about her isolation and depression.

At first, she was hesitant. “I don’t do sports, so I don’t think I’m going to like it,” Henry recalls saying. But she started attending weekly activities and soon was looking forward to them. She felt a mild lifting of her depression.

“I still participate with these same people.... They call me, they encourage me, and it’s great,” Henry says.

This year, she’s adding two new events: cycling and basketball free throw.

The National Veterans Golden Age Games are a multisport competition for veterans aged 55 and older; in 2024, more than 800 veterans competed. This year’s games will feature more than two dozen competitive and exhibition events, from badminton and basketball, to golf and pickleball, across three divisions—ambulatory, wheelchair and visually impaired. Athletes compete in eight age groups, and medals are awarded to the top three finishers in each age group and division.

Henry credits the support of her coaches, teammates, children and grandchildren as she tackled a new experience that felt scary but also exciting. Her positive outlook plays a part, too.

“I’m just beginning to live this marvelous life that God has given me.” —Stacey Shepard

Upcoming workshops AARP Louisiana’s Speakers Bureau will hold a series of workshops throughout the year designed to inform, empower and inspire people of all ages.

Topics will vary but include downsizing and decluttering, fraud prevention, disaster preparedness and brain health. Events will be held at libraries throughout the state, including in Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Gonzales and Donaldsonville. All are open to the public. Find a full list of events at aarp.org/la.

Volunteers needed AARP Arkansas is seeking volunteers who enjoy meeting new people and making an impact to help with its programs and causes.

Time commitments are flexible, and volunteers can choose what they want to work on. Beyond that, volunteer recruitment chief Larry Larson says volunteers receive training, tools and support to help make the most of their experience.

Volunteer opportunities include advocacy, community outreach, communications, livable communities, veterans support, driver safety and tax help. Interested in joining? Send an email to ar@aarp.org.

Tech training It’s possible today to do everything from depositing a check to reviewing your medical records from your smartphone, tablet or computer. Beyond that, gaining new digital skills can also pay off in the job world.

If you’re interested in boosting your digital powers, AARP South Carolina in June and July will offer free online classes to help you do so. For information and to sign up, see aarp.org/sc. —SS