Workshop: A Look Into Osteoporosis Tuesday, Jan. 7, 11 a.m.-noon
Join Inge, our past Nordic walking instructor, for this informative workshop! This class is for people with osteopenia and osteoporosis who want more information about exercise guidelines, good body mechanics, activities to avoid, balance training and fall prevention. Inge Gaiser is a semi-retired physical therapist, who is herself diagnosed with osteoporosis and has lots of continuing education and expertise in treatment of osteoporosis. Visit a2gov.org/senior. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
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Drive-through: Cold Weather SafetyWednesday, Jan. 8, noon-1 p.m.
Join Atria Senior Living for this fun, and cozy event! Enjoy snacks, socialize indoors, and pick up information. Visit a2gov.org/senior. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. required. Contact 734.794.6250. Free for members; $5 nonmembers.
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Travels With George: The Soul of Southeast AsiaThursday, Jan. 9, 1:30-4 p.m. Join us on a travelogue with host George Jabol! Twenty-five hours of flight time brought me to Southeast Asia – a world very different from mine in terms of cultures, languages, beliefs, foods, and people. In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, I began my journey by touring the Royal Palace complex and its Khmer-style architecture. A performance of the classic art of Apsara dancing introduced me to the ancient civilizations at Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, whose stunning ruins speak of a glorious distant past. A sobering reminder of the recent present came with a visit to a Killing Fields site, dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives during the Khmer Rouge regime. A short flight brought me to Thailand, where I saw the elaborate temples of the Grand Palace in Bangkok as well as the ruined palaces of Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand. Another short flight landed me in Laos, a mountainous and scenically beautiful country where old ways predominate over modernity. A Mekong River cruise brought me to a remote village to learn how local people live. Finally I arrived in Vietnam and boarded a classic junk to explore the breathtaking scenery of Ha Long Bay. In bustling Hanoi, I attended a Water Puppet performance and rode a bicycle/rickshaw through the thriving streets and marketplaces of the city's Old Quarter. My trip greatly deepened my understanding of and respect for the wondrous people and places of Southeast Asia. Open to all ages 18+. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Visit www.a2gov.org/senior. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge. | 
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| Workshop: Domestic Violence 101 Thursday, January 16, 1-2 p.m. Join Ally Zenda, the Domestic Violence Outreach Coordinator for the Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Office for education and awareness on Domestic Violence. Learn about what domestic violence is, the signs and effects of DV, and resources available in our community with the SAFE program. The SAFE Program is a grant-based program through the Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Office and Safehouse that helps educate the community about domestic violence.Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
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| Workshop: The Wild World of Menopause Monday, Jan. 27, 1-2 p.m. Join Paige, Community Outreach Educator of Planned Parenthood of Michigan to learn more about the wild world of menopause! We'll be learning more about the ways our brains and bodies change during this process, breaking down stigma, and more! Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Space is Limited. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
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Technology Workshop: Fake News & MisinformationThursday, January 23, 2-3 p.m.
Join James Giordani from AsKevin for this educational tech workshop on fake news and misinformation. Why is fake news such a big deal, who creates digital misinformation, and how does all this junk spread? Come learn about these "alternative facts" and how to identify them. James Giordani received his MSW from the University of Michigan with a focus on enhancing the quality of life and independence of seniors through technology. He has been teaching tech skills and providing in-home tech support tailored to older adults for over 8 years. James breaks down the confusing world of technology into clear, understandable, and interesting presentations whether you're a tech novice or a tech master. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
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Lunch & Learn
Join us every Wednesday for a new hands-on learning experience! Workshops provide an opportunity for members to learn from specialists in our community. Each week we invite a different local organization to come and share a presentation about their expertise and new ways to become involved in the community. A light lunch will be provided. Preregistration required by calling 734.794.625. Free of charge.
Lunch and Learn: Cultivating Joy
Wednesday, Jan. 15, noon-1 p.m. Join Home Helpers Home Care for a discussion-based workshop for making this season of life happy, contented, and full of meaning. Studies show that cultivating joy helps build resilience for when we find ourselves in the inevitable yucky or painful places of life. We will talk about small, easy ways to cultivate joy in our daily lives, and have some fun while we're at it! Light lunch provided. Preregistration required. Free of charge.
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| Lunch and Learn: Insights on Vertigo
Wednesday, Jan. 22, noon-1 p.m. Please join Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists for this presentation on vertigo and balance dysfunction, delving into the complexities of these conditions. We will offer insights into their causes, symptoms, and impact on daily life. We will discuss effective diagnostic approaches and highlight treatments, including rehabilitative exercises and therapeutic strategies aimed at improving balance and reducing dizziness. Participants will gain practical knowledge on managing vertigo and balance issues, empowering them to take proactive steps towards better health and enhanced quality of life. Light lunch provided. Preregistration required. Free of charge.
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| Lunch and Learn: Hospice Myths & Realities Wednesday, Jan. 29, noon-1 p.m.
Please join Flen Baker of Open Arms Hospice for a review and discussion of commonly asked questions and myths about hospice. This informative workshop that will cover the important topics regarding hospice including what hospice is, understanding the hospice benefit, how to recognize when hospice can help, services provided by hospice, common myths, and what to do if hospice is needed. Light lunch provided. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
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| Lunch and Learn: Boost Your Brainpower Wednesday, Feb. 5, noon-1 p.m. Please join Better Living Fitness to explore how specific exercises can enhance cognitive function, sharpen memory, and improve focus. In this workshop, you'll discover practical, science-backed movements designed to support mental clarity and longevity. Ideal for anyone looking to stay sharp and active! Light lunch provided. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge. | 
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Monthly Senior Support Programs
Senior Support Consultations
Wednesday, Jan. 8, 9:30-10:30 a.m. or 10:30-11:30 a.m. A Care Manager is a senior resources expert that can assist clients with: Discharging from the hospital, starting, or stabilizing caregiving structure in the home, remaining independent at home, choosing, and preparing to move to a senior community, creating medical stability or a new diagnosis roadmap, and support, education, and future planning. Together with Care Management by Natalie we can help find your right path through the aging process. Click
here to learn more. Sign up for a free 1-hour initial consultation, free of charge. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250.
Weekly Activities
Bluegrass Jam
Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. (every second and fourth Wednesday except for January, June, and July. These dates are: Wednesdays, Jan. 15 and 29, and Tuesdays, June 10 and 24, July 8 and 22). The A2 Bluegrass participants, from expert to novice, come from all over southeast Michigan to have fun with bluegrass jamming and singing. We draw a wide variety of musical Instruments including banjos, fiddles, standup and electronic bass, percussion, washboard, dobro, mandolin and the occasional harmonica. Open to all ages. Visit the Bluegrass website for more information. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center. Cost is $5.
Move and Groove
Wednesdays, 9:30-10:15 a.m. (No class Dec. 25 or Jan. 1). In partnership with
Ballet Chelsea's Adaptive Dance Program (ADP), and with support from the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, this Move and Groove class for Seniors, taught by Kari Becker, is tailor made to the needs and abilities of the participants and aims to improve coordination and balance, endurance, flexibility, self-confidence and, for students, teamwork. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center. Contact 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
Scrabble
Wednesdays, 1:30-3 p.m. (No game Dec. 25 or Jan. 1). What has 100 tiles, 225 squares, a multi-colored board and millions of fans of all ages, backgrounds, and locales? Calling all Scrabble lovers! Easy to teach, easy to learn and fun to play: this group is for people who like a little friendly competition and riotous conversation. All experience levels are welcome, so if you like the occasional game of Scrabble, then join us! Friends encouraged. Open to all ages 18+. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center. Call 734.794.6250. Free for members; $2 for nonmembers.
Trivia Over Zoom!
Wednesdays, Jan. 8 and 22, 1-2 p.m. Join us on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Invite your friends, grandchildren and neighbors to login and play with you, or be placed on a team with others. We will keep a tally of winners and at the end, will have prizes that you can pick up. Join Zoom Meeting URL by clicking here. Zoom Meeting ID: 979 1239 9740 Passcode: 194912. Questions? Contact 734.794.6250 or
[email protected]. Free for members; $2 nonmembers.
Mind Matters
Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. (No game Dec. 25 or Jan. 1); Mondays, Dec. 23 and 30, 10-11 a.m.; and Thursdays, Dec. 26 and Jan. 2, 10-11 a.m.). Join us for fun brain exercises that are designed to keep your brain young, strong, agile and adaptable. No experience necessary – just bring a pen, paper and an open mind! Join Zoom Meeting URL by clicking here. Meeting ID: 947 2633 1603 Passcode: 739714. Questions? Contact 734.794.6250 or [email protected]. Free for members; $2 nonmembers.
Artist's Open Studio
Thursdays, 9:30-11 a.m. (Closed on Dec. 26, Jan. 2). Calling all artists and craft enthusiasts! Join us for a weekly open studio where we invite you to bring your own projects and art equipment to work on in a creative, and supportive environment. Don't have your hands on a project or equipment? Not to worry – we have a collection of materials and craft projects that you can choose from (please call ahead to see what supplies are available). Friends encouraged. Open to all ages 18+. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center. Free for members, $2 for nonmembers.
New Artist Exhibit!
“Pin Up Women" Featuring Sophie Grillet, Susan Lawless, and Sally Silvennoinen
Show on display January-March. Artist opening reception on Friday, Jan. 24, 5-7 p.m.
A statement from the artists:
“We are three diverse artists, collaboratively exhibiting our views of the clothes line through the lens of our camera. Take a closer look at something familiar and see through renewed eyes. Have your thoughts wander through your memory, nostalgia, and personal stories.
Who remembers: Folding a sheet from the line together? Seeing the laundry dance about like people? Admiring the shapes and colors on the line, especially your own! Having a good reason to step outside with a big basket on your hip? Running between fluttering sheets with - or as - a giggling toddler? Breathing in the fresh scent of naturally dried laundry?
Clothes lines have been used for thousands of years all around the world. Take a closer look at the familiar and see through fresh eyes: as good housekeeping, as environmentalism, as visual poetry, as a symphony of clothes dancing on the line. Enjoy our photography show, just hangin'…"
Visit the show at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave., (9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday). Call 734.794.6250. Free admission.
Bridge
ACBL Sanctioned Games
Thursdays, 12-3:30 p.m. (No game on Dec. 26 or Jan. 2)
Join us for sanctioned bridge at the Ann Arbor Senior Center with director, Matt Evett! No partner? No problem! Arrive by 11:30 a.m. and tell the director. Open to all ages 18+. More information can be found at
annarborbridge.com. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center. Cost is members, $8; nonmembers, $9.
Non-sanctioned Duplicate Bridge Games
Mondays, 12:30-3:30 p.m. (No game Dec. 23 and 30).
Directed by Ray Gentz, attracts players of all ages with varied levels of expertise including life masters to beginners. Open to all ages 18+. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center. Members, $3; nonmembers, $5.
Bridge: Supervised Play
Monday, Jan. 6, 9:30-11:30 a.m. and Jan. 7, 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m.
These sessions are designed for beginners and low, intermediate players who wish to improve their bidding, declarer and defensive play. The sessions will run with students playing seven-nine hands per session. Hands will be analyzed after completion to review the bidding, play and defense. It is highly recommended that students have some type of previous bidding class or experience. Please note that this is not a duplicate game, just practice. Drop in only, no registration required. Players will be partnered with people of the same skill level when possible. Instructor: Ray Gentz. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Call 734.794.6250. Cost is members, $10; nonmembers, $12.
Instructional Bridge
Instructional bridge classes are directed by Ray Gentz and are open to all ages. Each class requires its own registration. Call to register. For more information, contact the instructor Ray Gentz at [email protected]. Open to all ages 18+. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center. Cost of each course is: $130, members; $156 nonmembers (drop-in option: members, $15; nonmembers, $17).
Bridge II Play of the Hand: Part II
Mondays, Jan. 13-April 7, 9:30-11:30 a.m. This class is designed for advanced beginners and low intermediate players who wish to improve declarer skills and will cover chapters 4-6 of the text. The main part of the course deals with play of the hand as declarer. Other parts include bidding reviews, defense, and more. The class will run with lecture for the first 75 minutes or so followed by play practice for the remaining time. The required text is "Play of the Hand in the 21st Century" by Audrey Grant (ISBN-10: 0939460947).
Bridge Defense: Part II
Tuesdays, Jan. 14-April 8, 10 a.m.-noon. This class is designed for beginners and low intermediate players who wish to improve their defensive play. The class will run with lecture and discussion from the required text, “Defense in the 21st Century" by Audrey Grant (ISBN-10: 0939460653), for the first 75 minutes followed by play practice for the remaining 45 minutes. Hands will be analyzed after completion to review the bidding, play and defense. We will study chapters 4-6. Students must register in advance for all 13-weeks. It is recommended students have some type of previous bidding class or experience.
Bridge for Beginners: Part II
Tuesday, Jan. 14-April 8, 1-3 p.m. This class will cover chapters 6-9 of the required text “Bidding in the 21st Century" by Audrey Grant (ISBN-10: 0939460939). The first 60 minutes will be for lecture followed by a 5 minute break which will be followed by 25 minutes more lecture. The last 30 minutes will be for play of hands. This is a great review class for others who may want a good review of overcalls, takeout doubles and Stayman. The class is for anyone who has taken Bridge I through Rec & Ed or Bridge for Beginners at the Ann Arbor Senior Center.
Senior Focused Classes: Wellness and Enrichment
Senior Focus classes are offered in partnership with Washtenaw Community College for adults 65+. Classes are held at the Ann Arbor Senior Center. Preregistration required. If after registering, you find you are unable to attend, please let us know so that we may open spots for other participants. Please note that all WCC senior-focused classes are free of charge regardless of membership status.
Tai Chi (All Levels) (Class currently has a waitlist)
Tuesdays, Jan. 14-March 25, 10:30-11:30 a.m. (No class Feb. 18) This free Tai Chi class combines martial arts movements with Qi (energy) circulation, breathing and stretching techniques. This class helps improve balance and overall health. Instructed by Karla Groesbeck. Class is open to all abilities.
Line Dancing for Seniors (Class currently has a waitlist)
Tuesdays, Jan. 14-March 18, noon-1 p.m. A line dance is a choreographed dance where everyone dances a repeating sequence of steps while arranged in one or more lines. This class provides low impact exercise and socializing. Instructed by Deliena Grantham.
Adventures in Watercolor (Class currently has a waitlist)
Tuesdays, Jan. 21-March 25, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Join this mindful community of painters for artistic inspiration, painting demos, art history, lively discussion and fun. All skill levels welcome. Participants will be required to provide their own materials. Instructed by Debra Golden.
Intermediate Tai Chi
Wednesdays, Jan. 15-March 26, 10:30-11:30 a.m. (No class Feb. 19) This free Tai Chi class combines martial arts movements with Qi (energy) circulation, breathing and stretching techniques. This class helps improve balance and overall health and is suitable for intermediate level Tai Chi students. Instructed by Karla Groesbeck. Class is open to all ages.
Senior Focus Yoga (Class currently has a waitlist)
Wednesdays, Jan. 8-March 12, 2-3 p.m. This gentle, fun Yoga practice welcomes folks of all mobility levels and experience. Senior Focus Yoga is led by Tammy Wingfoote and includes modifications for individual needs and safe transitions in and out of yoga postures. Motor planning and fall prevention awareness is woven throughout the class to help improve mobility. Explore yoga postures in seated, mid plane, and standing positions, finishing the class in reclined peaceful relaxation. Enjoy the benefits of improved alignment, balance, strength, flexibility, and breath awareness through the ancient practice of Yoga. The use of props; chair, straps, or yoga blocks to support your practice is welcome. Students may use one of the limited number of mats at the Senior Center; it is suggested to bring your own mat.
Italian Language Class - Intermediate
Thursdays, Jan. 16-March 20, 10-11 a.m. Planning a trip to Italy? Or are you passionate about the riches of this beautiful country known for its scenic landscape, excellent cuisine, operas, art, history and most important, its warm, fun, loving people? Come join native speaker, Nicola Parravano in learning to speak the language of love – Italian! The class will also explore the many wonderful characteristics of Italian culture. Class will be held in a supportive, friendly and fun place to learn this beautiful language. Prerequisite of previous Intermediate Italian course.
Strength and Conditioning for Seniors (Class currently has a waitlist)
Fridays, Jan. 17-March 28, 1-2 p.m. (No class Feb. 7) This fun and energetic class will improve your quality of life by providing training that will improve your strength, balance and mobility. We will keep it moving with easy-to-follow cardio moves. Classes are taught by fitness expert Michele Williams. Join us and let's get this fitness party started!
Rent the Ann Arbor Senior Center
Planning an event? Rent the Ann Arbor Senior Center in the charming neighborhood of Burns Park! The facility is the perfect venue to host your next baby shower; birthday, graduation, or retirement party; reception; work retreat; public meeting or class; and much more! The center is equipped with multiple rooms, ample onsite parking, a kitchen with space for food storage and preparation, air conditioning, balloon frames and inflating tools, LCD projector, tables, chairs, sound system with Bluetooth connectivity, access to the park and playground, and two 50" flat screen televisions (stream a football game or movie for the kids!). Click
here for information about pricing. To make a reservation or check availability, call 734.794.6250.
Catholic Social Services
- A “go to” place for a comprehensive Senior Resource Connect Program including a
list of phone numbers of the services seniors need. No religious affiliation necessary.
Jewish Family Services
- Providing expertise, compassion and personalized support through the aging experience. No religious affiliation necessary.
Call
AgeWays to Get Connected with Resources and Programs
- The Area Agency on Aging 1-B is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2024 with a name change! The nonprofit is now known as AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services, a name that reflects its mission: helping people to age in the ways they choose. Call 800-852-7795 to learn about services, resources and classes for older adults and family caregivers.
- Medicare/Medicaid Questions: AgeWays can help: Explain Medicare health plan options and eligibility requirements; Understand what is/isn’t covered by
Medicare; Understand doctor bills, hospital bills and Medicare Summary Notices; Understand Medicare/Medicaid enrollment timelines; Review your Medicare supplemental (“Medigap”) insurance needs, compare policies and pursue claims and refunds; Identify resources for prescription drug assistance & identify and report Medicare/Medicaid fraud and abuse.
Solo Learning: Aging In Place and Healthy Aging Highlights
As people age, they tend to want the same things: to stay in their homes, maintain independence, and turn to family and friends when they need help. If living at home is important to you, you may worry about getting around, staying safe, and keeping connected. Information on healthy aging and more tips from the
National Institute on Aging at
NIH is available here.
Trualta: New Skills-Building Platform Offered for Family Caregivers
Ageways is now offering
Trualta, a free online platform designed to help family caregivers navigate challenges, find local resources, and connect with other caregivers. Trualta’s learning modules, on subjects ranging from handling a loved one’s resistance to taking medications to managing pressure wounds, to taking care of oneself, can be read, listened to, or watched. There are resources, articles, checklists, videos, quizzes, and webinars to choose from.
NEW! LGBTQ+ Pride In Aging
- The Turner Senior Wellness Program at Michigan Medicine and MiGen are teaming up to create a welcoming and inclusive space for older and maturing LGBTQ+ individuals and allies in Washtenaw County and the surrounding areas to connect, share resources, and support each other. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with other older adults in the community who share similar experiences. To sign up and receive communications about upcoming offerings click here. Contact [email protected] or call 734-998-9353.
Donations & Equipment Lending
- Looking to donate medical equipment? Looking to borrow equipment? The Ann Arbor Senior Center will take
and lend gently used ADL equipment such as shower chairs, walkers, canes, and more. Call us at 734.794.6250. If you have other types of medical equipment to donate, please click
here for a list of places that accept varying types of medical supplies.
Transportation Services
- Feonix/Washtenaw Rides for Older Adults: is a program that provides no-cost transportation to Washtenaw County residents ages 60+ who need transportation to medical care, healthcare, and food access. To find out if you qualify, please call Feonix at 734.259.4125.
Senior Moments
CTN's monthly series, Senior Moments, provides valuable information for senior citizens on such issues as health, wealth, finance and entertainment by covering events and activities at senior centers in the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti area. Click below to watch the series and catch it on Comcast CTN Channel 16, on the last Sunday of the month at 5 p.m. Reruns Sundays at 5 p.m., Mondays at 8 a.m., Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m., Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and Fridays at 5 p.m. To access the series online, visit Senior Moments - YouTube. The newest segment features a year in review highlighting several different shows!
