March brings diverse range of offerings to senior center

This month, the senior center offers a diverse range of new programming.

For those concerned about falls, the center presents A Matter of Balance, a nationally recognized, evidence-based program, designed to help reduce fall risks.

Those curious about natural burials can attend a screening of the documentary “From Earth to Earth: The Lost Art of Dying in America.”

Additionally, for anyone feeling overwhelmed by Medicare, a comprehensive presentation on Understanding Medicare will be available.

Programs

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group
Wednesday, March 12, 3-4 p.m.
Are you caring for someone with Alzheimer’s? Do you know someone who is? Please join us for our monthly Caregivers Support Group on the second Wednesday of each month 3-4 p.m. The meetings provide a safe place for caregivers, family and friends of persons with dementia to meet and develop a mutual support system. Please note the earlier time during the winter months. For additional information please contact Louise Fairbank. Free. No registration required.

‘From Earth to Earth’
Thursday, March 13, 1 p.m.
Join us for a presentation of an award-winning documentary on natural burials, “From Earth to Earth: The Lost Art of Dying in America.” This 20-minute documentary describes the reemergence of natural burial as an eco-friendly alternative to current funeral practices and cremation through personal stories of some of its major proponents that led to the (re)legalization of natural burial and the founding of the first cemetery devoted entirely to natural burial in Vermont and from people who have experienced the ways that natural burial can help with the grief of the death of loved ones and bring comfort to those facing their own deaths. The documentary will be followed by a question-and-answer session and time for personal discussions. Free. Registration suggested at 802-425-6345.

Friendship Gathering
Thursday, March 13, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
The Friendship Gathering is a series of social events for seniors looking to build friendships and make new connections. Join us for light refreshments, engaging conversation and plenty of mingling. Please RSVP to ensure we have enough refreshments. Free. Registration required by calling 802-425-6345.

Understanding Medicare
Wednesday, March 19, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
This informative session will help you navigate the complexities of Medicare and empower you to make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage. Topics include: How Medicare works, how to avoid future Medicare penalties, what Medicare will cost in 2025, assistance available for low-income individuals and how to cover costs that Medicare doesn’t pay. Join for a clear, concise overview of Medicare and the support options available to help you make the best choices for your healthcare needs. Free. Registration suggested at 802-425-6345.

Art

March exhibit
The March art exhibit at the senior center is entitled “A Brush with Nature.” It features paintings by Lillian Kennedy, a distinguished visual artist whose lifelong focus has been on landscape art, with works in corporate and private collections worldwide. Her notable murals include a 54-foot scene at Tavern on the Green in New York, as well as exhibits at the Bronx Zoo and Sunset Park Courthouse in Brooklyn.

Creative arts & crafts group
Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon
Come create, experiment, share ideas, encourage others and have fun with the creative arts & crafts group on Wednesday mornings. Bring whatever creative endeavor you’re working on, enjoy doing, or thinking about trying out—painting, drawing, writing, scrapbooking, coloring, origami, cardmaking, knitting—the opportunities are limitless. Free. No registration required. For questions, email Katie Franko.

Photo discussion group
Sunday, March 9, 2-4 p.m.
Join us for our monthly photo discussion group where photographers of all skill levels share their work, ideas and experiences. Bring a photo and a story to share with the group. This is a great chance to engage in creative dialogue, get feedback and explore the impact of your images in a supportive environment. For questions or more information, contact Emily Cross. By donation. No registration required.

Watercolor workshop
Tuesday, March 18, 9 a.m.-noon
Join us for a spring-themed watercolor workshop with artist Lynn Cummings. The class will dive into the technique of “negative painting,” focusing on painting the negative spaces, creating a stunning and unique effect. You’ll also learn how to play with high value contrasts, adding depth and vibrancy to your artwork. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore new techniques while celebrating the beauty of spring. Cost: $45. Registration and payment required by March 11. To register, call 802-425-6345.

Exercise

A Matter of Balance
Fridays, March 21-May 9, 1:45-3:45 p.m.
“A Matter of Balance” is a nationally recognized evidence-based program sponsored by AgeWell and offered free of charge. This program is designed to help older adults reduce the fear of falling and boost activity levels and features eight two-hour classes that provide practical strategies and exercises to improve balance and build confidence. Led by a trained coach, each session offers support and guidance in a positive, empowering environment. For questions contact Elizabeth 802- 771-4560. Free. Registration required by 3/17. To register, call 802-425-6345.

Yoga dance
Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Let Your Yoga Dance incorporates basic dance-like movements to music, guided by the body’s energy system (chakras). It is a safe, compassionate, gentle movement practice, allowing for individual expression and nonjudgemental acceptance. This class is appropriate for all levels of fitness and abilities. Everyone can “let their yoga dance.” Cost: $10 a class. No registration required.

Tai chi
Thursdays, 9:45 a.m.-10:45 a.m.
The Yang international short form is the most popular form of tai chi practice. It consists of slow continuous soft circular movements which are coordinated with breathing. Regular practice helps to improve balance, mind-body connection, mental awareness, flexibility, stability, coordination and overall health. When practiced in the company of others, it is both uplifting and energizing. Taught by a certified instructor who has studied with the founder of the Tai Chi for Arthritis Association. Email questions. $10 a class. No registration required. $10 a class. No registration required.

Bone Builders
Mondays, 9:45-10:45 a.m., Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Wednesdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. & Fridays, 11 a.m.-noon
RSVP Bone Builders, a program of United Way of Northwest Vermont, is a no-impact, weight-training program designed to prevent and even reverse the negative effects of osteoporosis in older adults. Bone Builders consists of a warm-up, balance exercises, arm and leg exercises, and a cool down with stretching. Free. No registration required, but there is paperwork to complete for the RSVP Bone Builders program.

Meals
Menus are posted on the website.

Monday lunches
Served weekly. Lunch is served 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., or until the food runs out. Suggested lunch donation $5. No registration required.

Senior center info:
The senior center offers programs for adults 50 and older from Charlotte and surrounding communities. Priority is given to seniors, but programs are open to adults of all ages. Interested in receiving a weekly reminder about what is happening? Sign up for the email newsletters at charlotteseniorcentervt.org. The “Week Ahead” email is sent out on Friday mornings with activities, lunch menus and special programs for the upcoming week.

Lori York, director
212 Ferry Road, Charlotte
802-425-6345
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