Nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, Ash Flat, Arkansas, was in the line of totality for the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. For a few minutes on that magical Monday, the early afternoon skies went dark while the moon was positioned smack-dab between the sun and our Earthly vantage point, blocking its powerful rays.
The eclipse’s “moment of totality” lasted for 4 minutes and 14 seconds, but the awe and wonder of that day remains a topic of lively conversation at Ash Flat Healthcare and Rehab Center. This celestial event drew hundreds of thousands of visitors to our state, and we felt fortunate that it was a spectacle we could enjoy in our own backyard, literally!
Staring directly at the sun is not safe at any time, and this is especially true during a solar eclipse. Fortunately, solar eclipse glasses, which are way more powerful than traditional sunglasses when it comes to blocking UV light, make it safe to observe this rare moon-blocks-sun show without risk of retinal damage. With advanced preparation and delicious snacks, our bespectacled team and elders headed out to watch the afternoon sun disappear…then reappear.
Leading up to April 8th, the anticipated eclipse sparked excitement and generated a lot of fun conversation. Did you know that Arkansas has been on the path of totality for only two solar eclipses before this year? The first occurred on November 30, 1834, and the second on June 8, 1918. Arkansans will have to wait 21 years to witness the next solar eclipse, as our state will be on the path of totality again on August 12, 2045.
Getting together with friends for special occasions is a fantastic way to bond and create new memories. These little moments of celebration and fun can make a big difference for seniors who struggle with cognitive decline. Fortunately, the caring team of healthcare and non-medical workers at Ash Flat Healthcare and Rehab Center are always coming up with new ways to enrich our beloved elders’ lives.