Variety in full bloom at senior center this April

(The photo in this story originally had the wrong caption. It has been corrected here. Diane Boucher is the volunteer creating flower arrangements in the picture.)

The senior center is offering variety this April, from screenings and workshops focused on Alzheimer’s care and personal growth to creative arts and exercise classes. Highlights include a screening on Alzheimer’s caregiving, a transformative workshop on reconnecting with your authentic self and an art exhibit by local educators.

You can also enjoy gentle yoga, tai chi or a Bone Builders class. Whether you’re looking to expand your creativity, improve your health or gain valuable insights into aging, these events offer enriching opportunities to connect with the community.

Programs

‘Matter of Mind’ film
Tuesday, April 8, 1 p.m.
The Alzheimer’s film “Matter of Mind” explores how Alzheimer’s disease transforms the lives of three families who confront the challenges of becoming primary caregivers. Please note: The film will be shown at the Charlotte Library. Free. To register, call the senior center at 802-425-6345 or on the website.

Alzheimer’s caregivers support group
Wednesday, April 9, 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 from 3:00-4:00 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. Free. No registration required. For additional information email.

What’s Running Your Life workshop
Wednesdays, April 9-30, 10-11:30 a.m.
Ready to reconnect with your authentic self? Join this transformative four-week workshop to overcome negative programming, awaken to your true essence and begin living the life you were meant to. Experience inner peace, true joy and the freedom of full self-expression. Led by Jim Koehneke, spiritual director, author and 30-year student of spiritual psychology. $60. Registration and payment required by April 7. To register, call 802-425-6345.

Rewilding with the Bird Diva
Wednesday, April 9, 7 p.m.
As one of the town’s many Earth Month events, join Bridgett Butler, known as the Bird Diva, for a unique presentation on Slow Birding, hosted by The Charlotte Land Trust. This approach encourages a deeper connection to the land, birds and ourselves. Learn how to create your own slow birding sanctuary in your backyard; one that supports healthy, diverse habitats for birds and offers a peaceful space to sit and observe. For more info, go to the website. Free. Registrations encouraged but not required: 802-425-6345.

AARP Smart Driver course
Saturday, April 12, 11-4 p.m.
The AARP Smart Driver course is designed for older drivers. It will help refresh your driving skills and may even help you save on your auto insurance. Bring your lunch. Registration required. It’s $20 for AARP members and $25 for non-members. Checks should be made out to AARP. To register, call 802-425-6345.

The Ins & Outs of Senior Living
Wednesday, April 16, 1 p.m.
Join the Harbor Village team for an insightful presentation on senior living options. This session will cover a variety of housing choices for seniors and debunk common myths. Gain valuable tips on planning for aging and find communities that best suit your needs, personality and lifestyle. Free. To register, call 802-425-6345.

Art

Creative expressions by local educators
The work of local art teachers is on display throughout April. This informal group was formed to encourage one another in pursuing creative passions and producing original artwork. An artist reception will be held on Thursday, April 10, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

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, April 6, 2-4 p.m.
Join the monthly photo discussion group, where photographers of all skill levels are welcome to 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 and collaborative environment. By donation. No registration required. For questions or more information, contact Emily Cross.

Spring watercolor workshop
Tuesdays, April 15-May 6, 9 a.m.-noon
In this upbeat, supportive class, you’ll explore spring-themed subjects and vibrant colors through watercolor painting. Perfect for all skill levels, the class will guide you through fun and dynamic techniques. Please be sure to provide an email address when registering as the supply list will be emailed upon registration. Cost: $165. Registration and payment required by Tuesday, April 8. To register, call 802-425-6345.

Exercise

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.

Chair yoga
Tuesdays, April 8-22, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Join Lynn Alpeter, former co-owner of Yoga Roots and yoga teacher, for a gentle and accessible chair yoga class designed to help you connect with your breath, move your body and lift your mood. Whether you’re new to yoga or looking for a more supportive practice, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to increase flexibility, balance and relaxation. Using a chair for support, we’ll explore mindful movement and simple stretches that can be easily adapted for all levels. Leave feeling uplifted, energized and centered. All are welcome! $30 for the three-week series. Registration and payment required by April 4. To register, call 802-425-6345.

Tai chi
Thursdays, 9:45-10:45 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.

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. Cost: $10 a class. No registration required.

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