Clovis' services help keep seniors active

Barbara Riggan believes Clovis is a strong municipality because of the services it offers senior citizens.

“Seniors rely on services from the city such as transportation, recreation and libraries. Without such services seniors would struggle,” Riggan said.

For the past 13 years, Riggan has been Director of Clovis’ Senior Services. Her office is in the city’s senior center, The Friendship Center at 900 W. 13th St.

“The main thing we do is offer a variety of activities for seniors 50-plus,” Riggan said.

Riggan said the department schedules events such as presentations, webinars and blood pressure checks.

“We do fun things like bingo and karaoke. We’re also working with Clovis Area Transit System to provide non-emergency medical transportation. We’re also working this out for service between Clovis and Portales,” Riggan said.

Riggan believes it’s important for seniors to stay active.

“Staying active helps with your mind, body and spirit. I think more than anything keep moving, whether it’s a brisk walk or gentle stretching,” Riggan said.

Socializing is important for seniors, according to Riggan.

“Socializing is vital for all ages. Seniors need a place where they can visit with peers,” Riggan said.

Riggan has seen “many” seniors who isolate themselves after an illness or death of a loved one.

“I’ve had people come up to me and say, ‘This place save my life.’ They find purpose again. They learn to live again, laugh again,” Riggan said.

Riggan likes the laughter at the Friendship Center.

“You should hear the laughter out of this place sometimes,” Riggan said.

Working with seniors has taught Riggan.

“I’ve learned from seniors to live life to the fullest. Join an organization that can enhance your quality of life, it’s important,” Riggan said.

According to Riggan, Senior Services and Riggan’s office along with the Curry Resident Senior Meals Association will be moving to the new Hillcrest Senior Life Center in early 2024.

Riggan noted the La Casa Senior Center and the Baxter-Curran Senior Center are their own entities, not part of the city’s senior services.