Santa Barbara, Calif. – At the Louise Lowry Davis Center, a group of local seniors has turned a classic board game into a weekly source of connection, mental exercise, and joy. The chess gatherings, held every Tuesday and Thursday, draw participants who value both the strategic challenge of the game and the camaraderie it creates.
Long‑standing love of the game
James Horton, who has been playing chess for more than seven decades, says the game has been a family tradition. “My father taught me to play chess when I was really young, and I don’t think I ever beat him,” Horton recalled. He now finds that the focus required for chess helps quiet the constant stream of thoughts that can crowd the mind. “When you’re concentrating so much, everything else fades away,” he explained.
Brain food for seniors
Other participants echo Horton’s sentiment. Bruce Campbell, a longtime Santa Barbara resident, describes chess as “brain food” that helps keep him feeling younger. “You have to use your brain; otherwise, everything else falls apart,” he said. Russell (last name not disclosed), another regular, believes the activity prevents isolation and mental decline. “It keeps you from getting senile,” he warned, adding that the club gives seniors a reason to leave the house and stay engaged rather than simply sit in a rocking chair.
More than competition
While the games can be competitive, the atmosphere prioritizes fellowship over winning. Players chat about their moves, share jokes, and celebrate each other’s progress. For many, the simple act of looking forward to a Tuesday or Thursday evening is a highlight of their week. “I really look forward to it,” one player said, noting that anticipation encourages them to stay healthy and active.
Community impact
The chess club exemplifies how low‑cost, volunteer‑driven programs can strengthen community bonds among older adults. By providing a regular, structured activity, the Louise Lowry Davis Center helps seniors maintain cognitive health, build friendships, and remain visible members of the neighborhood. The program’s success underscores the value of local centers that offer inclusive, intergenerational activities.
As Santa Barbara continues to explore ways to support its aging population, the chess gatherings stand out as a model of how simple, enjoyable pursuits can promote mental well‑being and social connection.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
