Carolyn Vardeman, Texas Retired Teachers Association District XII president, was a guest at the Lampasas County Retired Teachers Association meeting April 6 at the Lampasas Independent School District board room.

She spoke briefly to members and invited them to attend the District Spring Workshop in Waco on May 6 and the state convention in Arlington this month.

Margo Pace, physical therapist with Metroplex Home Health, spoke to the group about her job. Before she can give therapy to a patient in the home, she must assess the patient’s current capabilities and what they could do before they needed therapy, including walking, turning, balancing and more.

Ms. Pace discussed and demonstrated implements available for use that could aid a patient’s independence.

She also advised that exercise is important, especially regarding moving the body’s joints daily. She added that mental activity is as important as physical activity, and interaction with others is helpful.

Ms. Pace said patients must listen to what professionals and family members tell them.

Linda Porter, occupational therapist with Lampasas Nursing & Rehab, also emphasized the importance of moving the joints, especially stretching and breathing deeply. She also explained and suggested helpful utensils and tools available including a basket or bag on a walker, eating utensils with large handles, cushions in a chair, raised recliners and others. She emphasized the importance of hydration in helping joints and the body’s functions.

President Mary Casbeer conducted the business. She called for reports from committee chairmen and officers.

The unit voted to give one $750 scholarship to a Lampasas High School student.

The final meeting of the club year will be May 4 at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church. Members are asked to bring a covered dish for a fellowship lunch.

The program will be talents, skits and anecdotes by members, who are encouraged to have their presentation ready for the gathering.

Dues of $35 will be collected, and the program committee will ask for suggestions for next year’s programs.

All retired school personnel are invited to attend and join the local organization. Reservations are not necessary.

Mrs. Vardeman noted that Lampasas has around 27 retirees who have joined the state organization and are considered “at large” members, and she encouraged them to join the Lampasas association.

There is a state monetary incentive for adding new members.

She added that Texas has the largest retired teachers’ organization in the nation.