734.794.6250Ann Arbor Senior Center
About the Facility
The Ann Arbor Senior Center offers a range of programs, services and social activities to empower and engage older adults in healthy and meaningful ways. Our goal is to provide programs and services that promote fitness and activity, reduce the risk of adverse health events, and provide recreational and cultural activities that can improve physical stamina and maintain cognitive functioning. We strive to make healthy activities fun while providing access to wellness information and support for older people and their families. We are proud to be a part of this community and we would be honored to have you join us. Programs and services for all ages are offered at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, and also in Burns Park.
BPatton@a2gov.org
A year long membership is $25, and a family annual membership is $35. Memberships are required to participate in no-cost programs. No-cost memberships are available to income eligible families that apply for the Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation Scholarship program. Nonmembers may try each program, once, at no cost, prior to making their determination to join. Participation in a program following the free trial will incur a cost, depending on the program, per person for nonmembers.
Rent the Senior Center
Our space is the perfect place to connect with your community: convenient, accessible and available for rent! The Ann Arbor Senior Center offers a variety of amenities for your family celebration, club meetings and public classes. For additional information or to setup a time to view the facility, please call 734.794.6250 or click here.
2025 Notices
Check back regularly as these notices are updated.
- Hours
- Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
-
Rentals available evenings and weekend
Community Resources
Senior Center staff are available via phone to help find local resources for older adults. We can help you with a variety of topics including home health care, food assistance, home repairs and maintenance, transportation, assistance for veterans, medicare/medicaid help, housing information and more. Give us a call at 734.794.6250 and we will do our best to point you in the right direction.
Calendar
Upcoming Events
Technology Workshop: AI & the Future
Thursday, February 27, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Join James Giordani from AsKevin for this educational tech workshop. Is AI really that big of a deal? Why does our tech keep changing, where is it going, and how will it affect seniors? Come find out! 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.
Travels With George: Aztec and Maya Cultures
Thursday, March 6, 1:30-4 p.m.
Join us on a travelogue with host George Jabol for this 12-day journey! The purpose of the trip was to explore ancient Aztec and Mayan sites extending from Mexico City to the Yucatan, but along the way there was much to enjoy and learn about modern day Mexican culture. Stops include: Aztec temples at Tenochtitlan and Teotihuacan; tours of the charming Colonial town of Puebla; Veracruz, a museum visit featured the famous colossal basalt heads of Olmec leaders; ruins at Palenque, one of the most beautiful Mayan city-states in Mesoamerica; Uxmal near Merida and its intricate carvings preserved on the stone temples; Chichen Itza, the principal ceremonial center of the Yucatan; and last a relaxing resort in Cancun. Open to all ages 18+. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
Birding in Burns Park
Monday, March 10, 1-3 p.m.
Join our friend Eleva Potter, Natural Area Preservation Environmental Educator, for this new workshop! Learn which local birds live in Burns Park and what species may be migrating through the area. Then we'll go outside to look for them. Binoculars provided. Dress for the weather. We will be walking about a mile on a flat, unpaved surface. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
Drive-through: March Into Good Skincare!
Wednesday, March 12, noon-1 p.m.
Join Dermatology Specialists of Ann Arbor for this fun event! Enjoy snacks, socialize indoors, and pick up goodie bags and information on common skin conditions that are more prevalent in the senior population as well as skin care product samples. Come talk about SPF, skin checks, and eczema flares as the seasons change and march into good skincare! Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Contact 734.794.6250. Free for members; $5 nonmembers.
Workshop: Making Decisions About an Assisted Living Care Residence
Wednesday, March 12, 1:30-3 p.m.
Join Barbara Zaret and Justine Bykowski for this educational presentation! Barbara and Justine are retired from Michigan Medicine after having a career that focused on working with older adults and their families about long term care. When searching for an assisted living care residence there are many factors to consider. How can you determine the best fit for you or your loved one? Join this discussion and learn about: How assisted living is defined in Michigan; Resources to help with decision-making; Assisted Living Residences promise and pitfalls; Special Regulations for memory care; Where to find state regulations and violations for licensed assisted living; and making complaints and problem-solving strategies. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
Workshop: The Love, Lure, and Lore of the Laundry Line
Friday, March 15, 2:30-4 p.m.
The laundry line? What's there to talk about? Anne Lawrence will take you on a nostalgic trip back in time to the days when everyone hung their wash on the line to dry – when they went online without the internet! There will be memories to share, links between the clothesline and social/cultural issues, history, feminism, psychology, sociology, and ecology. You will hear why "solar drying" – that wonderful free sun – is once again the way to go in today's eco-conscious world. There will be personal stories, delightful slides to see, along with a peek at Anne's vast collection of laundry memorabilia. Located at the Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave. Preregistration required. Call 734.794.6250. Free of charge.
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 & Learn: Strategies from a Geriatric Care Manager
Wednesday, Feb. 26, noon-1 p.m.
Join Natalie Adewunmi, a Registered Nurse and expert Geriatric Care Manager at Care Management by Natalie, as she demystifies the role of care management in supporting the elderly. Addressing your top aging concerns, from maintaining independence to managing health and financial planning. Natalie's workshop will provide actionable insights and strategies to help you navigate the complexities of aging with confidence. Don't miss this essential session designed to empower those facing the challenges of aging alone or with limited support. Light lunch provided.
Lunch & Learn: Advanced Directive Planning
Wednesday, March 5, noon-1 p.m.
Join Regency at Bluffs Park to discuss the various types of advanced directive planning, including legal, financial and healthcare and the value of having an advanced directive in place. Additionally, we will go over the differences between a Power of Attorney, Guardianship, and Patient Advocate. Lastly, Advanced Directive forms will be provided so that everyone in attendance can leave with their own plan in place. Light lunch provided.
Lunch & Learn: Common Fraud & Scams - Keep Your Information Protected!
Wednesday, March 26, noon-1 p.m.
Join MRW Solutions Group for this educational presentation and learn how to ensure your personal information is safe from today's sophisticated fraudsters and scammers who target seniors with phones, email, and online. You will learn: Common scams targeting seniors; How to recognize the warning signs; Steps to protect your identity, finances, and sensitive information; What to do if you suspect you've been a target or victim of fraud; Real-life examples of scams. Expert strategies to outsmart scammers. Empower yourself with the knowledge to stay a step ahead of cybercriminals and con artists! Light lunch provided.
Lunch & Learn: Introduction to Parkinson’s Disease
Wednesday, April 2, noon-1 p.m.
Join FOX Rehabilitation for this educational presentation! Parkinson's disease is a movement disorder of the nervous system that worsens over time. The nervous system is a network of nerve cells that controls many parts of the body, including movement. Join a representative from FOX Rehabilitation to discuss understanding of the disease, treatment strategies, and the Lee Silverman Voice Treatments (LSVT)--BIG and LOUD (exercise and speech programs). FOX is a primarily clinician-operated, professional private practice of full-time physical, occupational, and speech therapists, built on the foundation of Geriatric House Calls. Light lunch provided.
Monthly Senior Support Programs
Senior Support Consultations
Wednesday, March 12, 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
Move and Groove
Wednesdays, 9:30-10:15 a.m.
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.
Mind Matters
Wednesdays, 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 bpatton@a2gov.org. Free for members; $2 nonmembers.
Trivia Over Zoom!
Wednesdays, Feb. 19, March 5 and 19, 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 bpatton@a2gov.org. Free for members; $2 nonmembers.
Scrabble
Wednesdays, 1:30-3 p.m.
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.
Bluegrass Jam
Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m. (every second and fourth Wednesday except for June, and July. These dates are: 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.
Artist's Open Studio
Thursdays and Fridays, 9:30-11 a.m.
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.
Senior Mall Walks
Fridays, 10-11 a.m.
It's fall/winter mall walk season! Walks will run through April, and in May we return outdoors to the parks! Meet staff from the Ann Arbor Senior Center at Briarwood Mall, near the Panda Express entrance (between JCPenney and Macy's) and walk one-mile together indoors. Preregistration required to ensure all waivers are completed. Contact 734.794.6250. Free for members; $2 for nonmembers.
Artist Exhibits
“Pin Up Women" Featuring Sophie Grillet, Susan Lawless, and Sally Silvennoinen
Show on display January-March
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: Games and Classes
ACBL Sanctioned Games
Thursdays, 12-3:30 p.m. (No game 2/13 due to tournament)
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.
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.
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 ray62856@gmail.com. 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 through 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 through April 15, 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
Tuesdays through April 15, 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 through April 1, 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 through March 25, 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 through April 1, 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 through April 1, 10:30-11:30 a.m. (No class Feb. 19)
This 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 through March 19, 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 (Class currently has a waitlist)
Thursdays through 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 through March 28, 1-2 p.m.
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!
Events & Rentals
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.
Community Resources
Catholic Charities of Washtenaw County
- 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.
- 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 tswpinfo@umich.edu 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.
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 our very own Brittany Patton!