Citizens for Bath Seniors

Citizens for Bath Seniors (CBS)
By Chuck Ausherman, Bath Ohio

According to a new book, “The Lonely American: Drifting Apart in the Twenty-first Century” two psychoanalysts claim that more Americans are suffering loneliness than ever before. Their finding is based on the fact that they have experienced a dramatic increase of depression among their patients due to isolation from friends and neighbors. Depression is especially a health problem among seniors.

Research has found that in spite of hours we may spend on the internet as a relationship facilitator there is still a void in people’s lives which leaves us unsatisfied. People need people.

Bath is a wonderful place to live. Our beautiful homes and spacious lawns are admired by visitors and make us proud to live in a well ordered and managed township. But that alone does not solve the problem for those who retire after an active life. Community is more than nice homes and lawns.

In an effort to keep Bath seniors healthy and happy a local group of seniors is seeking ways to facilitate social and recreational networks in Bath. CBS seeks to encourage and create opportunities to meet and enjoy friendship and fellowship in a recreational setting.

Since about one-third of the population of Bath are seniors it is felt that there should be more focus on what is already available and what is needed for that large percentage of the population. CBS seeks to build community where people can meet and enjoy their neighbors. CBS looks for opportunities to be helpful to individuals who may need a ride to a grocery store, to a doctor’s appointment or some other personal favor. This is what neighbors do for each other.

This effort is not intended to compete with the excellent facilities we support for our children and grandchildren. We are proud of our schools. Many of us have graduated from them and continue to benefit from the top notch job they have done and as they continue to excel in their mission.

We salute the fine job our police, fire and health care service persons for their outstanding readiness to protect and be there in our emergencies. Alas, this does not solve all our problems or fill all our needs.

Many nearby townships have Senior Centers with daily activities where seniors get to meet and know their neighbors. Would this be an idea to explore for Bath? CBS is working on it and would appreciate your input. Seniors are encouraged to share their ideas, thoughts and experience with CBS. Contact the following: Bathseniors@yahoo.com or mail your comments and suggestions to:Citizens for Bath Seniors, P.O. Box 544 Bath Ohio 44210.

Note: The writer of this article is a PhD and a Masters of Science in Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill which is known nationally for research on causes of depression among seniors.