Programs

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Fitness Programs

The Fitness Programs at the Groton Senior Center promote and maintain the physical abilities of participants and also group classes offer a chance to socialize with other class members and provide mental stimulation through music and physical motion.  Class sizes range from small Qi Gong classes to large Cardio Sculpt classes.

Music Programs

The music programs at the center provide an opportunity for seniors to develop their skills in music whether it is learning to read music, sing in harmony or learning to play piano.  The choruses also take a leadership role in the community by going out to entertain at adult day centers, nursing facilities and schools.

Education/Enrichment

Programs in this category provide seniors with time to learn new skills in the areas of the arts, technology, health and more.  Through education the seniors develop and help maintain their mental abilities as well as support their self-esteem and creative needs.  Class sizes are small to medium.

Cards/Games

A variety of choices for group play and individual play.  Promotes mental stimulation and provides for socialization.  Research has shown that Bingo and other games are good for the brain.  They stimulate memory, attention skills and have great social interaction which works on many parts of the brain.  Our games programs include a variety of levels from basic to more challenging options.

Social Scene

These are events often attached to meals that are offered to provide socialization and entertainment for seniors.  Most events have a meal or food attached to them. These include the afternoon teas, monthly birthday/anniversary parties, special breakfasts, club gatherings, dinner and movie nights, annual Gnog Show (formerly Gong Show), annual Great American Picnic, Luau, Thanksgiving Dinner, Holiday dinner and Rotary dinners.  A regional dinner dance is held annually also to allow for socializing with friends from the other towns in the county.

Community Service Programs

These programs offer the seniors an opportunity to take a leadership role in community involvement either through sponsoring a community event or by participating in the community event.

Health Services

These services are provided to help seniors age at home and stay as well as possible.  Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of the programs.

Nutrition Services 

In addition to health services, the nutrition programs offer the opportunity for improved nutrition for participants and also in some cases a way to socialize with other seniors in small to large groups.

Human Service programs

These programs also support seniors aging in place.  They promote individual self-efficacy in making better choices and decisions about their individual needs.

Transportation Services

These programs support aging in place and allow seniors to stay active in their community and at the center.

    In Focus: Instructor Christina Palacios

    It is my pleasure to be celebrating my two-year anniversary with the Groton Senior Center this upcoming September. Prior to my weekly classes, I was introduced to the wonderful participants of the center as a substitute instructor for over a year prior.

    I have been submerged in the health and fitness industry for over 20 years. I have a passion for encouraging others to live their best life and feel amazing both mentally and physically through consistent practices of healthy living.

    I currently hold my certification for Group Fitness with AFAA and have been certified as a Silver Sneakers Instructor. My love for fitness has me also certified in many other practices which include, Pilates, Senior Yoga, TRX and Spin. Most recently, I’ve had the opportunity to be certified through the Arthritis Foundation and have really enjoyed leading their program “Walk with Ease”.

    I have two basic philosophies when it comes to exercise. Consistency Over Time Creates Change and in order to be consistent Exercise Must Be Fun! In order to create an environment of energy and enthusiasm through exercise I strive to have energetic music and constant change in movement pattern. This I believe makes the commitment to consistency just a little easier for my participants. Beyond the weekly classes I try to encourage my participants to try new things. This past winter many signed up and completed local 5k Races and as a group we walked over 2200 miles as we virtually “Hiked the Appalachian Trail”. I truly believe I have the best job and I am blessed by my people on a daily basis.

    We love to have new folks join our great groups, we not only sweat together but we also share life together. My classes get together outside of the center on a regular basis for lunch, walking and celebrating life!

    Cardio Sculpt: M/W/F 9am/9:15am/9am. This class is the perfect combination of healthy heart pumping cardio and muscle strengthening resistance work. All levels welcomed as modifications are offered and encouraged.

    Stretch Strength and Balance. M/W/F 10:15am/10:30am/10:15 am. This is a chair-based class that offers the perfect combination of Functional Movement Patterns that encourage participants to strengthen the mind as well as body. All levels welcomed as modification are offered and encouraged.

    Walk with Ease: M/W/F 11:30. This class has been brought to the GSC through the Arthritis Foundation and encourages participants to embrace walking as a means for consistent exercise that everyone can commit to. Workbook and curriculum are included with this class equipping our members with the tools and knowledge they need to become successful walkers.

    Walk with Ease 2: M/W/F 11:30. This group was created for the graduates of Walk with Ease. Join this energetic committed group as we collectively choose fun imaginary destinations and as a group achieve those goals. Encouragement & accountability, is what you will find with this class.

     

    Thursday, September 12th- Life Care Planning

    Time: 1:00pm

    Tips & Techniques For Successful, Empowered Living and Aging

    Anne-Marie Foster, BS, RRT Geriatric Care Manager and Legal Assistant

    Law Office of Richard D. Dixon

    An educational workshop to provide you with a framework to help you retain your independence and autonomy, simplify your financial, legal and health care planning, and bring you peace of mind.

    • Are you concerned about how to help loved ones as they age?
    • Are you worried about leaving behind unfinished business or coping with the aftermath of a loved one’s unresolved affairs?
    • Do you find yourself worrying about the future – your own or that of a loved one?
    • Are you apprehensive about outliving your money?
    • Are you concerned about retaining your independence and autonomy as you age?

     

    Art Show Results

    Thank you to ALL the talented artist who participated in our ART SHOW!

    The following artists placed 1st went on to the Regional Senior Art show at the Senior Expo August 9th.

    CATEGORIES:
    Painting:   Acrylic-   1st–  Susan Sypher “Yellow House in Woods”

    Painting:  Watercolor-     1st–  Karen A. Williams “Soaring” Great Blue Heron

    Drawing:  Pen or Ink-  1st– Patricia Walsh “Dream”

    Drawing: Pencil-  1st– Karen A. Williams “Tropical Treats”

    Photography-  1st–  Julia Meylor Simpson “Black and White Family portrait”

    Sculptures- 1st–  Bruce A. McDermott “Last Horizon”

     

     

    Friday, October 11th- Cards and Calligraphy: Fall Theme

    Time- 9:30am-11:30am

    Cost: $10.00
    Instructor: Artist Sean Kane, MSW

    Learn basic calligraphy skills while using your creativity with seawashed beach pebbles.  Expect light hearted fun with a fall season theme. Perfect for Halloween or Thanksgiving. Greetings with absolute Pizazz!  Must be 18 or older.