SOMERVILLE, NJ – Connect with others at any of the six Somerset County-operated senior wellness centers, which is managed by the Office on Aging and Disability Services. Join the fun Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and enjoy a wide range of activities and programs including educational, health and wellness programs, games and activities in a social and uplifting atmosphere.
There will be no in-person or hybrid classes/programs on Columbus Day Holiday (Oct. 9).
Lunch
Attendees can invite a friend or neighbor to join them for lunch. All county-operated senior centers provide a nutritionally balanced lunch on Monday through Friday for a suggested donation of $2.50 for anyone age 60 years and above. The menu includes a choice of hot meat-based or meatless entrées or cold meat-based or meatless boxed lunches. Senior center clients must make reservations for lunch by 10 a.m. on the previous business day.
Virtual and Hybrid Programs
Hybrid and virtual programs are noted throughout the schedule. Participants can attend hybrid programs either in person with an instructor or via Zoom.
Participants can join Zoom programs through a web browser without downloading any applications or software. A camera (audio and video) is required to participate in Zoom programs.
Zoom Tutorials
Learn how to use Zoom or sign up for a virtual tour at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us. To register for a virtual program or class, call 908-203-6101 or email Donlin@co.somerset.nj.us.
SENIOR WELLNESS CENTER AT BASKING RIDGE
202 Mt. Airy Road
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
908-204-3435
Computer Lab – Available daily. Participants can use the computers at their leisure.
Billiards Room – Available daily. The pool table is available daily on a first-come, first-serve basis, Monday – Friday.
Geri-Fit with Connie Ledder – Mondays & Wednesdays, 10 a.m. (Aug. 2 to Nov. 6.) Rebuild your strength for better functioning through Geri-Fit, a unique and beneficial exercise program that incorporates strength training with stretching and range of motion exercises, stability and balance training for fall prevention, cardiovascular activity for heart health, and gait exercises to help improve walking. **This exercise program can be practiced while sitting or standing. Participants need a set of light dumbbell weights (2 lbs.), a sturdy chair, a stretch band, and water to drink during the workout. This is a 45-minute class that takes place twice a week, for 12 weeks (24 classes). The class is currently full. To be added to the waitlist, and for more information call 908-204-3435.**
Knitting/Crocheting/Stitching Club – Mondays, 12:30 – 4 p.m. Bring knitting, crocheting or stitching projects to the senior center and either practice a hobby or learn a new hobby while meeting wonderful people. **Everyone is welcome to join this club.**
Mahjong Club – Mondays & Wednesdays, 12:30 – 4 p.m. Learn to play Mahjong, an interesting game that helps keep the brain sharp and supercharged! This club is for anyone who loves the game and wants to meet new people and have fun. **This is not a competitive club. All levels of experience are welcome.**
(NEW) Stronger Seniors: Stretch – Mondays, 1 p.m. & Thursdays Join this simple, pre-recorded exercise program. Use a chair for a safe and thorough stretching routine to feel more flexible. **For more information, call (908) 204-3435.**
Take Control with Exercise – Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10 a.m. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, and balance while boosting stamina during this gentle exercise program, presented in a video format. **Exercises can be practiced while either standing or sitting. No fee for this ongoing class. Call 908-204-3435 for more information.**
Canasta Club – Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m. Play this traditional card game that requires the use of strategic and tactical thinking. **New members are welcome. For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Card Club – Tuesdays, 1 p.m. Join fellow game lovers to play these favorite card games including Rummy, Blackjack, Crazy Eights, and even Go Fish. Playing cards is a great way to socialize, relax, and use one’s critical thinking skills. **For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Bridge Club – Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Get intellectual and social stimulation when playing the mentally challenging card game, Bridge. Studies show when participants regularly play Bridge it can stimulate the brain to keep it alert and help one’s memory stay active. **New members and beginners are welcome. For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Chair Yoga with Jillian. Wednesdays 1 p.m. Gain health benefits by practicing yoga poses with the support and safety of a favorite chair. Increase bone density, and improve strength, flexibility, and balance while being immersed in a relaxing class. Expect a lot of gentle stretching to bring movement to joints and muscles. This class is perfect for relieving stress and helping one to gain an overall sense of well-being. **The cost is $40 for the eight-week program. For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Monthly Book Club – Every Third Wednesday, 12:30 p.m. Join fellow book lovers on Oct. 18 to discuss “Tattooist of Auschwitz,” a historical fiction novel by Heather Morris. **New members are always welcome!**
Mahjong Lessons with Sylvia Rubin, Fridays, 9:30 a.m. Learn how to play this fun, challenging game and find out helpful tips and tricks to play. Playing Mahjong helps keep the brain sharp and supercharged. **For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
(NEW) Stronger Seniors: Stretch – Fridays, 10 a.m. Join this simple, pre-recorded exercise program for a safe and thorough stretching routine using a favorite chair to feel much more flexible. **For more information, call (908) 204-3435.**
Chair Yoga with Jillian. Fridays, 1 p.m. (Oct. 20 – Dec. 29). Gain health benefits by practicing yoga poses with the support and safety of your favorite chair. Increase bone density, and improve strength, flexibility, and balance while being immersed in a relaxing class. Expect a lot of gentle stretching to bring movement to joints and muscles. This class is perfect for relieving stress and helping participants to gain an overall sense of well-being. **The cost is $40 for the eight-week program. For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Oct. 3, 11 a.m. – “Fraud Watch” by Jim McDonough, AARP. Get tips and tricks to avoid scams such as identity theft, investment fraud, and holiday scamming. Participants will also learn ways to help identify scammer tactics.
Oct. 4, 11 a.m. – “Stories from Ellis Island” by Genealogical Society of Bergen County Trustee and Education Chair and Ellis Island Tour Guide Fred Voss. Hear fascinating stories and learn about the history and people of Ellis Island.
Oct. 5, 11 a.m. – “Medication Safety” by Bernardsville ShopRite Pharmacy Head Pharmacist Tina Mavinkurve. Learn basic medication safety tips, such as how to safely store, dispose of, and use medication.
Oct. 5, 12, 19 & 26, 11 a.m. – Line Dancing with David Cross. Have fun getting fit while dancing. Studies have shown line dancing increases cardiovascular and muscular strength and improves coordination and balance. Participants don’t need a partner, and it’s an easy way to stay healthy, both mentally and physically. **For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Oct. 6 & 20. 11 a.m. – Bingo. Partake in a little bit of friendly competition and play Bingo, which is more than just an exciting activity. Researchers have found that playing Bingo provides multiple health benefits, such as promoting socialization, strengthening hand-eye coordination, and improving concentration, listening, and short-term memory skills.
Oct. 10, 11 a.m. – Community Service Project: Paper Pumpkins, Shelly DeMarco, Enoble Care. Celebrate the beginning of the holiday season by giving back to the community by participating in a community service project. Participants will learn how to make paper pumpkin decorations to give to homebound patients. **All supplies will be provided. For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Oct. 10, 1 p.m. – Healthy Aging Discussion Group (Every Second Tuesday) with Certified Dementia Practitioner Andi Noble. Join this discussion group to talk about healthy aging including mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. The group will discuss a new topic each month. **For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Oct. 11, 11 a.m. “Medicare: 2024 Updates” by United States Department of Health, Region 2, Regional Director Dr. Dara Kass. Learn about the latest updates to 2024 Medicare including eligibility requirements and changes in coverage. There will be a Q&A session at the end of the presentation.
Oct. 11, 10 a.m. – Blood Pressure Screenings. Get a free blood pressure screening from an Atlantic Health nurse. **No appointment is necessary.**
Oct. 12, 11 a.m. – Brain Games with Connie, Basking Ridge Volunteer. Keep your brain young by playing games, puzzles, and trivia. Studies show that playing brain games may help sharpen certain thinking skills that tend to wane with age, such as thought-processing speed, planning skills, reaction time, decision-making and short-term memory.
Oct. 12, 1 p.m. – Flu Vaccine Clinic. Get a flu shot at this clinic hosted by Wegman’s Pharmacy. Participants must bring all health insurance cards to be eligible for a flu shot. **Registration is required by Oct. 9. Walk-ins will be accepted only if there are enough flu shots. To register, and for more information, call 908-204-3435.
Oct. 13, 11 a.m. – Family Feud: Halloween Edition with Kelly. Play a friendly game of Halloween-themed Family Feud to kick off the spooky season on Friday the 13th.
Oct. 16, 11 a.m. – “Vitamins and Minerals” by Family Medicine Specialist Dr. Brandis Belt, Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health. Learn how vitamins and minerals function in the body, fight infections, heal wounds, keep bones strong, regulate hormones and more.
Oct. 17, 11 a.m. “Better Breathing” by Tobacco Cessation Counselor Monica Gilles, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Learn how to breathe better and find out why breathing difficulties can occur with age.
Oct. 18, 11 a.m. – Cards with Jerry Garris-Happ. Create a beautiful Halloween-themed greeting card to give to someone. **All supplies will be provided. For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Oct. 19, 11 a.m. – How to Get Out of Bed Safely by Connie Ledder. Learn simple strategies for getting out of bed to help decrease the risk of injury.
Oct. 23, 11 a.m. – Brain Games with Kelly. Keep the brain young by playing games, puzzles, and trivia. Studies show that playing brain games may help sharpen certain thinking skills that tend to wane with age, such as thought-processing speed, planning skills, reaction time, decision-making and short-term memory.
Oct. 24, 11 a.m. – “Court System: How the Court Operates” by Kimberly Yonta, Yonta Law, LLC. Learn about the hearing process in a courtroom and what happens during specific types of cases.
Oct. 24, 1 p.m. – “Lighthouses of New Jersey: Lunch & Learn” by Marilyn Dunning & Alan Jacobson, New Jersey Lighthouse Society. Learn Historical facts about the structure and characteristics of lighthouses. Find out about lighthouse keepers, governance, the purpose of lighthouses, and how lighthouses are affected by weather. Beacons and female lighthouse keepers will be discussed too.
Oct. 25, 11 a.m. – “Halloween: A History” by Anna Nowik. Learn about the evolution of Halloween and similar holidays celebrated around the globe including the bonfires of Samhain and “Trunk or Treat.”
Oct. 26, 11 a.m. – Table Games with Connie Ledder. Play Pokeno, Left-Center-Right Dice Game, Scrabble, Dominoes, and other games for a fun day. **Connie will teach participants how to play any games they have not played.**
Oct. 27, 11 a.m. – Fall Lanterns Craft with Kelly. Make a beautiful fall lantern with a mason jar, fairy lights, and colorful tissue paper. **There are a limited number of supplies available. For more information, call 908-204-3435.**
Oct. 30, 11 a.m. – Smart911 by Russell Corleto, Somerset County Communications. Learn how Smart911, a simple app, can help provide first responders with necessary information before they arrive at a 911 call.
Oct. 31, 11 a.m. – Halloween Party with Entertainment by Gordon James. Celebrate Halloween when Godon James performs holiday favorites, such as the “Monster Mash,” “Ghostbusters” and “ Love Potion.” Dance to the music and have fun.
SENIOR WELLNESS CENTER AT BRIDGEWATER
876 East Main Street
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
908-203-6101
Billiards Room – Available daily, Monday to Friday on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Computer Lab – Available daily, Monday to Friday. Senior wellness center members are welcome to use the computers at their leisure.
Ping Pong – Available Monday – Friday. Take a shot at this fun game for a great way to improve hand-eye coordination, concentration and agility.
Table Shuffleboard – Available Monday – Friday.
Qigong Practices with Michael – Mondays, 10 a.m. Learn the traditional practice of Qigong, a sitting- meditation that teaches participants to get acquainted with their minds, bodies, and spirits. Beginners will learn to coordinate their breathing techniques with movements and then practice sets of exercises (like Tai Chi) until each movement and posture is perfected.
Stronger Seniors: Stretch – Mondays, 1 p.m. Join this simple, pre-recorded exercise program for a safe and thorough stretching routine using. This class will help participants feel much more flexible. **For more information, call 908-203-6101.**
(Virtual) Tai Chi for Arthritis & Fall Prevention with Phillip Chan – Mondays, 1 p.m. & Thursdays, 10 a.m. (Sept. 11 to Jan. 22). Learn how to reduce falls and improve balance. In this class, participants will focus on shifting their body weight through a series of light, controlled movements that flow rhythmically into one long gesture. Studies have shown that practicing tai chi can help reduce pain, fatigue, and stiffness, and help participants achieve a greater sense of well-being. **This program can be practiced while either standing or sitting. To be added to the waitlist, or for more information, call 908-203-6101.**
(Virtual) Hatha Yoga with Bharti – Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. Improve body posture through breath control and meditation. Practicing Hatha Yoga may provide participants with many health benefits, including aligning the body, and improving balance, flexibility, and circulation. **To register, call 908-203-6101 or email donlin@co.somerset.nj.us.**
Line Dancing with Connie and Debbie. Tuesdays, 1 p.m. Improve cardiovascular and muscular strength, coordination and balance while line dancing, which is so much fun it doesn’t even seem like exercise! Line dancing doesn’t require a partner and it’s a great way to maintain one’s mental and physical health. **This class is suitable for participants with limited mobility. All levels of skill are welcome. For more information, call 908-203-6101.**
Mahjong Club – Learn how to play Mahjong, an interesting game that can help sharpen the brain and keep it supercharged! This club is for anyone who loves the game and wants to have fun and meet new people.
• Wednesday Mornings – 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (Beginners)
• Wednesday Afternoons – 1 to 4 p.m.
• Friday Mornings – 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Take Control with Exercise – Wednesdays & Fridays, 1 p.m. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, and balance while boosting stamina during this gentle exercise program, presented in a video format. **Exercises can be practiced while either standing or sitting.**
Monthly Book Club – Every Fourth Thursday, 10 a.m. Join fellow book club members on Oct. 26, to discuss “Solito: A Memoir,” an autobiography by Javier Zamora. **New members are always welcome!**
Aerobic Chair Exercise with Sabina – Thursdays, 10 a.m. Improve your heart health, reduce stress, and lower the risk of depression, diabetes and osteoporosis while increasing stamina, improving metabolism and increasing flexibility. **There is no class on Oct. 19. This is an ongoing exercise program for all levels of skill. Exercises can be practiced while either standing or sitting.**
Ukulele Boot Camp – Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. (Sept. 14 – Nov. 2). Learn how to play the ukulele in just eight weeks while also connecting with others. In this musical boot camp, participants will start playing songs on the first day. The uke is incredibly easy to learn and has a wonderful way of making complicated music simple to play. The instrument has only four strings, and finger placement and chords are simple to learn. **The class is currently full. No previous experience or musical training is necessary. There are a limited number of ukuleles available to borrow. Players from previous sessions, newcomers, vocalists and percussionists are welcome. For more information, call 908-203-6101.**
(Hybrid) Gentle Aerobics with Lisa & Caitlin – Wednesdays & Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Exercise without putting undue pressure or strain on the body. Learn movements to increase blood circulation, lubricate joints for flexibility, and strengthen and stabilize individual muscles. Gentle aerobics can help decrease the risk of falls and make it easier to accomplish day-to-day activities. **The class will start at 10 a.m. on Oct. 13. This class will be presented via Zoom and conducted live at the center by an instructor. Exercises can be practiced while standing or sitting. The class is open to all skill levels.**
Stronger Seniors, Core Strength – Thursdays, 1 p.m. Join this safe and easy workout to strengthen core muscles by using resistance bands in this pre-recorded exercise program. **Participants can bring resistance bands or borrow bands from the senior center. For more information, call 908-203-6101.**
Project Healthy Bones – Mondays, 10:30 a.m. (Aug. 14 – March 4). Improve balance, strength, flexibility, and posture in this peer-led, 24-week exercise and education program for individuals who are either at risk for osteoporosis or have it. **To be added to the waitlist, or for more information call 908-203-6101.**
Project Healthy Bones – Fridays, 12:45 p.m. (Aug. 16 – Feb. 16). Improve balance, strength, flexibility, and posture in this peer-led, 24-week exercise and education program for individuals who are either at risk for osteoporosis or have it. **To be added to the waitlist, or for more information call 908-203- 6101.**
Crafts Club – Fridays, 12:30 – 2 p.m. Crafting and chatting is a great way to spend a Friday afternoon. Knit, crochet, embroider or bring any type of crafting project. **The senior wellness center has limited supplies available. For more information, call 908-203-6101.**
Pinochle Club – Fridays, 1 – 4 p.m. Play Pinochle! **New members are welcome!**
Oct. 2, 11 a.m. – “Medicare Benefits” by Regional Director, Region 2, Dr. Dara Kass, U.S. Get a brief overview of Medicare and the Inflation Reduction Act. Participants will also learn about receiving free vaccines, lower-cost prescriptions, and over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids through Medicare.
Oct. 3, 11 a.m. – “Caregiver Burnout” by Jill O’Brien, Generations Home Healthcare. Learn alternative ways and resources to help prevent chronic stress, depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even anger which can negatively impact the immune system. Caregiver burnout can strike at any age.
Oct. 4, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Flu Vaccine Clinic, Courtesy of Raritan Valley Pharmacy. Get a free flu vaccination from Pharmacist Sagar Patel to help prevent catching the flu, which can lead to other conditions such as bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, and the worsening of asthma and congestive heart failure.**To pre-register, call 908-203-6101. If needed, assistance with registering will be available.**
Oct. 4 & 26, 11 a.m. – Fun & Games with Lisa and Caitlin. Play your favorite oldies, such as Dominoes, Left-Center-Right, and Pass the Pigs for a relaxing day.
Oct. 5 & 30, 11 a.m. – Bingo. Partake in a little bit of friendly competition and play Bingo, which is more than just an exciting activity. Researchers have found that playing Bingo provides multiple health benefits, such as promoting socialization, strengthening hand-eye coordination, and improving concentration, listening, and short-term memory skills.
Oct. 6, 11 a.m. – “Bringing Vegetables to the Table” by Jennifer Korneski, Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Learn about the health benefits of eating vegetables as well as interesting facts, historical information, how to store and prepare vegetables, creative ways to add more vegetables to your diet and if you and your family are meeting vegetable-intake guidelines. Studies show eating a variety of vegetables may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and specific types of cancer.
Oct. 10 & 24, 11 a.m. – Bereavement Support Group. Share common feelings about grief and the renewal process in this support group, which provides participants with a safe place for grieving the death of a loved one. Interfaith, bereavement principles and universal spiritual concepts are incorporated into this group. Doctor of Ministry, Grief Counselor and Pastoral Psychotherapist Ronald W. Kaplan will facilitate the discussions. **Everyone’s presence and participation are welcome. For more information, call 908-203-6101.**
Oct. 10, 11 a.m. – “Organ and Tissue Donation: What You Should Know by Community Services” by Specialist Ametra Burton, New Jersey Sharing Network. Learn the basics of organ donation and tissue donation. A single organ donor can save the lives of eight people, but there are approximately, 115,000 people waiting for organ transplants in the United States and almost 4,000 of them are in New Jersey. **There will be a Q&A session at the end of the presentation.**
Oct. 11, 11 a.m. – “Monuments, Memorials, and Cool Places in Washington D.C.” by Historian Paul White. Learn fascinating facts about Washington D.C. and its structures and buildings, such as the National Cathedral, which has a sculpture of Darth Vadar among its gargoyles.
Oct. 12, 11 a.m. – “Fire Prevention” by Volunteer Firefighter Steve Niederle, Finderne Firehouse. Learn how to protect yourself and your home from devastating fires during Fire Prevention Week.
Oct. 13, 10:30 a.m. – “The Journey of Jack the Ripper” by Rutgers Professor Charles Smith. Take a spooky journey back to the year 1888 when Jack the Ripper, the world’s first serial killer, stalks his victims in the wealthy West End of London and London’s gritty East End with its gaslights, narrow streets, and thick fog. Have a creepy time and try to solve the crime with Professor Smith.
Oct. 16, 11 a.m. – Scarecrow Wreath Craft with Lisa & Caitlin. Create a simple scarecrow-themed wreath for your home. **All supplies will be provided. Supplies are limited. For more information, call 908-203-6101.**
Oct. 17, 11 a.m. – “Medication & Safety Awareness” by Geriatric Care Manager & Nurse Kathy Bassiacos, Unicity Senior Advisors. Learn how to safely manage medication to avoid being one of the one million Americans who visit the emergency room.
Oct. 18, 10 – 11:15 a.m. – Free Blood Pressure Screenings. Get a free blood pressure screening from a Somerset County Vo-Tech nursing student to help them learn while you learn about your blood pressure. **No appointment is necessary.**
Oct. 18, 11 a.m. – “The Somerset County Office of Emergency Management” By Lynette Dooley and John Durland. Learn how the Office of Emergency Management prepares and responds when a terrible storm rips through the area and find out how local firefighters and EMTs are trained.
Oct. 19, 10:30 a.m. – Volunteer Appreciation Celebration. Celebrate how the volunteers at the Senior Wellness Centers make a huge difference in people’s lives. John Fitzpatrick and the Full Monty Uke Band will provide a celebratory performance.
Oct. 20, 11 a.m. – Navratri by Suseela Joish. Find out why Navratri, a nine-day Hindu holiday is celebrated and learn two different traditional dances. **Participants should wear a long skirt if they have one available.**
Oct. 23, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Blood Pressure Screenings by Nursing students from the Rutgers School of Nursing. Get a free blood pressure screening from a nursing student.
Oct. 23, 11 a.m. – Where the Money Goes by Mary Ann Rivell, New Jersey Lottery, a Division of the New Jersey Treasury. Learn about the New Jersey Lottery system including what happens to the money after purchasing a ticket, how the lottery helps support state programs and why it improves the lives of New Jersey residents.
Oct. 24, 11 a.m. – “Vein Diseases of the Legs” by Dr. Steven Kim, Hunterdon Healthcare. Learn about varicose veins and vein diseases in the legs, the causes, diagnoses, and treatment options.
Oct. 25, 11 a.m. – Spooky Halloween Trivia with Caitlin. Play a fun and spooky trivia game that will include facts about scary movies, Halloween candy, and creepy legends. Participants will have a spooktacular time playing this game.
Oct. 27, 11 a.m. – Jack O’ Lanterns Craft with Lisa & Caitlin. Create a Halloween jack o’ lantern using a glass jar and tissue paper. **Supplies will be provided, but available on a first-come, first- served basis. For more information, call 908-203-6101.**
Oct. 31, 10:30 a.m. – Halloween Spooktacular with Entertainment by DJ Gio. Enter the costume contest and Monster Mash dance-off with DJ Gio. Expect black cats, ghosts, and everything else that puts the howl in Halloween.
SENIOR WELLNESS CENTER AT HILLSBOROUGH
339 South Branch Road
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
908-369-8700
Rummikub – Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 9:30 a.m. Play this fast-moving board game, which requires players to have some luck and use strategic thinking. Playing Rummikub promotes social interaction, mental stimulation and relaxation. Time flies when you play this game.
Sit & Stitch Club – Mondays, 1 p.m. Bring your knitting, crocheting, and sewing projects to the club, and share your skills and talents with other members. **Beginners are welcome.**
Fit & Flex with Rose – Tuesdays (Virtual) & Wednesdays, 11 a.m. Get fit while performing 20 minutes of low-impact exercise to music, use weights for 15 minutes, and then use resistance bands for 15 minutes. Perform stretching exercises with a chair and other movements while standing. The instructor teaches proper breathing and proper positioning.
Beginner Ukulele Club with David – Wednesdays, 1 p.m. Start on the right note with easy-to-follow lessons. Learn how to hold, tune, and strum simple chords while learning the foundation of playing the ukulele. **There are a limited number of ukuleles available to borrow. For more information, call 908-369-8700.**
Tai Chi Exercises – Wednesdays, 1 p.m. and Fridays, 10 a.m. – Reduce pain, fatigue, and stiffness, decrease the risk for falls and gain a greater sense of well-being when practicing Tai Chi. In this class, participants will focus on shifting body weight through a series of light, controlled movements that flow rhythmically into one long gesture. **This program can be practiced while standing or sitting**
Puzzle Club – Wednesdays & Fridays, 1 p.m. Strike up a conversation, make new friends, and enjoy assembling puzzles. The senior wellness center has a wide variety of puzzles available.
Vitality: Cardio Boxing Series with Curtis Adams – Tuesdays at 1 p.m. & Thursdays at 10 a.m. Partake in an exciting blend of easy-to-follow exercises for older adults. The class is presented via video. All exercises will be demonstrated while standing and sitting. **For more information, call 908-369-8700.**
Hillsborough Discussion Group with Al Alvaro – Every Second Thursday (Oct. 12), 1 p.m. Share favorite Halloween customs and stories about how you celebrated Halloween as a child. **For more information, call 908-369-8700.**
Walking Club – Thursdays, 1 p.m. Join fellow walkers and walk outside to better your health. Regularly walking can improve one’s balance, mood, memory, and sleep. **The club will meet when weather permits. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toed shoes. For more information, call 908-369-8700.**
Oct. 2, 11 a.m. – Art 101: Part 1 by Illustrator and Owner of Barbara Yaney Design, LLC, Barbara Yaney. Learn how to draw in three easy, fun-filled classes. In Part 1, participants will learn the foundation and the formation of drawing, outline, rhythm and geometric design, as well as scribbled continuous, and illustrative design elements. This class is great for anyone who has had the desire to be an illustrator but thinks they don’t have talent. **All supplies will be provided. To register and for more information, call 908-369-8700.**
Oct. 3, 10 a.m. – Card Games. Play your favorite card games like Rummy, Poker, Crazy Eights, and Solitaire and share gaming skills. **Beginners are welcome.**
Oct. 5 & 19, 11 a.m. – Bingo. Partake in a little bit of friendly competition and play Bingo, which is more than just an exciting activity. Researchers have found that playing Bingo provides multiple health benefits, such as promoting socialization, strengthening hand-eye coordination, and improving concentration, listening, and short-term memory skills.
October 10, 10 a.m. – “Medicare Benefits” by Regional Director, Region 2, Dr. Dara Kass, United States Department of Health and Human Services. Get a brief overview of Medicare and the Inflation Reduction Act, and learn about receiving free vaccines, lower-cost prescriptions, and over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids through Medicare.
Oct. 12, 11 a.m. – Halloween Door Hanger Craft with Tammy. Create a Halloween Door Hanger with a step-by-step tutorial. **All supplies will be provided. Space is limited. To register and for more information, call 908-369-8700.**
Oct. 16, 11 a.m. – Art 101: Part 2 by Illustrator and Owner of Barbara Yaney Design, LLC, Barbara Yaney. Learn about value and modeling and contrasts with black and white or dark and light using charcoal or pencil. This class is great for anyone who has wanted to be an illustrator but thinks they fell short in the talent department. **All supplies will be provided. To register, or for more information call 908-369-8700.**
Oct. 17, 10 a.m. – Volunteer Recognition Ceremony with Jersey Girls Performance. Celebrate the Senior Wellness Center at Hillsborough’s volunteers by acknowledging their achievements, such as supporting the operations and helping to make the senior wellness center a place that feels like home while enjoying a performance by the Jersey Girls.
Oct 18, 10 a.m. – Paint with Stickers. Paint with stickers to create vibrant, full-color pictures using low-poly images, and geometric polygon shapes to create a 3-D effect. This is a compelling activity for artists, crafters, and doodlers of all ages. **All supplies will be provided. To register, and form more information, call 908-369-8700.**
Oct. 23, 11 a.m. – Art 101: Part 3 by Barbara Yaney Design, LLC, Illustrator and Owner Barbara Yaney. Learn about overlapping shapes, one to two-point perspective, and flattened perspective in the third session. This class is great for people who have wanted to be an illustrator but think they don’t have talent. **All supplies will be provided. To register and for more information, call 908-369-8700.**
Oct. 24 & 31, 10 a.m. – Game Day. Join fellow senior wellness center members to play favorite games, including hangman, checkers, chess, and more. Playing games is a great way to socialize while taking part in friendly competition.
Oct. 25, 10 a.m. – “Using Your Wits: Part 4” by Lisa Bayer, CDP, Always Best Care Senior Services. Learn about cognitive skills and memory in this class when participants will find out how to remember things more easily and in greater detail by using mnemonic devices.
Oct. 26, 11 a.m. – “Fantastic Plant Stories” by the Somerset County Parks Commission. Discover how plants have been used around the world for hundreds of years. Over the centuries people have used plants to celebrate or decorate homes and public spaces. Whether it’s the beauty of formal gardens or a simple bouquet, plants have brought joy to millions of people.
Oct. 27, 11 a.m. – “NJTIP on Trips and Transit” by Linda Rapaki, Ridewise and NJTIP at Rutgers Research Program Coordinator/Travel Instructor Jeffrey Daniels. Learn about NJ Transit programs, transportation options, and how to safely access, pay and ride local transportation.
Oct. 30, 11 a.m. – Halloween Spooktacular with Entertainment by DJ Winston Freeman. Enter the costume contest and Monster Mash dance-off with DJ Winston Freeman. Expect black cats, ghosts, and everything else that puts the howl in Halloween.
Oct. 31, 11 a.m. – Mask Craft with the Senior Wellness Center at Hillsborough Staff. Make a bootiful Halloween mask and come dressed in a costume. **All supplies will be provided. To register and for more information, call 908-369-8700.**
MONTGOMERY SENIOR CENTER
356 Skillman Road
Skillman, NJ 08558
609-466-0846
Billiards Room – Available daily. The pool table is available daily on a first-come, first-serve basis, Monday – Friday.
Computer Lab – Available daily. Senior center members are welcome to use the computers at their leisure.
Card Club: Rummy 500. Get your game on and play a fun and relaxing version of the card game Rummy. You don’t want to miss the fun. **This game is available daily.**
Blood Pressure Screenings – First Monday of Every Month, 9:45 a.m. Get a FREE blood pressure screening from a Montgomery Township nurse who will be onsite at the senior center. **No appointment is necessary.**
Bocce Ball – Fridays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Enjoy the outdoors while playing bocce ball! **All levels of skill are welcome. Instructions are available. The game is available when weather permits.**
Take Control with Exercise – Mondays, 10 a.m. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, and balance while boosting stamina in this gentle exercise program. **Participants can practice the exercises while either standing or sitting.**
Nia Melt with Alida Westfield – Mondays, 11 a.m. – Get a full body workout that includes moving to music using the MELT Method, which is a lightweight series of exercises, that uses little balls on specific positions of the hands and feet to help eliminate trapped stress and pain in the body. The class ends when participants stand or sit to practice 15-20 minutes of non-impact Nia movements that were created especially for seniors to stimulate HIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), which is known to burn fat.
(Hybrid) Yoga Chair Fusion with Debbi – Tuesdays, 10 a.m. Learn techniques to help gain flexibility and improve strength while immersed in a relaxing class. Expect lots of gentle stretching to bring movement to joints and muscles. Practicing yoga may help participants increase bone density, strengthen muscles, improve balance, relieve stress, and achieve an overall sense of well-being.
** Exercises can be practiced while standing or sitting. The class is open to all skill levels. This class will be presented via Zoom and conducted live at the center by an instructor.**
Intermediate Ukulele Lessons with John Fitzpatrick –Fridays 9 a.m. Build on the skills learned in the beginner’s class to master chords, melodies and improvisation. Participants will also play a multi-part arrangement in a band and perform a wide range of musical genres in front of an audience. **Class will be held on Thursday, Oct. 5, and every Friday. For more information, call 609-466-0846.**
Tai Chi with Herb – Wednesdays, 10 a.m. Reduce the risk of falls by practicing Tai Chi. In this class, participants will focus on shifting body weight through a series of light, controlled movements that flow rhythmically into one long gesture. Studies have shown that most participants reduced their pain, fatigue, and stiffness and achieved a greater sense of well-being when practicing Tai Chi. **Participants can practice exercises while either standing or sitting.**
Beginner Ukulele Lessons with Denise – Wednesdays, 1 p.m. Learn how to hold, tune, and strum simple chords while learning the foundation of playing the ukulele in easy-to-follow lessons over six weeks. **Next session to start on Jan. 10, 2024. To register and/or to reserve a ukulele, call 609-466-0846 or email Crowley@co.somerset.nj.us.**
Line Dancing with Debbie Bjornsted. Thursdays, 11 a.m. Improve cardiovascular and muscular strength, coordination, and balance while line dancing, which is so much fun it doesn’t even seem like exercise! You don’t need a partner and it’s a great way to maintain your mental and physical health. **This class is suitable for participants with limited mobility. All levels of skill are welcome.**
Advanced Beginner Ukulele Lessons with Denise – Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. Hone the skills you have learned in the last class, such as basic chords and strumming techniques, then learn how to play songs with more challenging chord combinations. **There will be no class on Sept. 7, 14 and 21. To register and to reserve a ukulele, call 609-466-0846, or email crowley@co.somerset.nj.us.**
Mahjong Club – Fridays, 10 a.m. Join this club to meet new people while learning to play the game, which is an interesting way to keep your brain sharp and supercharged! This club is for anyone who wants to learn the game or loves playing it. **This is not a competitive club. All levels of experience are welcome.**
Oct. 3, 11 a.m. – Onstage Seniors led by Director Josh Schnetzer. Experience Documentary Theatre with the Onstage Seniors who perform true stories gathered from story circles, one-on-one interviews, senior centers, and schools throughout Central New Jersey. The actors perform these stories as monologues and scenes based on a yearly theme. This year’s theme is “Remembering.” Every performance includes time for the actors and the audience to find common ground and connection through discussion about the stories told on stage.
Oct. 4, 11 a.m. – Fall Favorites with the Pettets. Welcome the fall season by singing along and dancing to familiar songs you will recognize and enjoy.
Oct. 5 & 19, 9:45 a.m. – Creative Wellness with Shirin Stave-Matais. Achieve calm, gain control, and learn meditative practices through imaginative, joyful and social interaction. This class combines wellness exercises with Hatha and Chair yoga. Participants will learn gestural, improvisational, and world dance forms, sound therapy, creative play, guided relaxation and meditation techniques. **Participants of all skill levels are welcome, and the class can be practiced while standing or sitting.**
Oct. 6, 11 a.m. – Performance by the Raritan Valley Dance Ensemble. Enjoy dances created by faculty, students, and guest artists from Raritan Valley Community College. Dance genres will include ballet, modern jazz, improvisations and more. The program will last approximately 30-45 minutes. Afterward, there will be a Q&A session with the dancers.
Oct. 10, 11 a.m. – Neurographic Art with Denise. Create a unique watercolor piece of Neurographic art, which is a simple way to work with the subconscious mind through drawing. This creative method stimulates new neural pathways by combining art and psychology, which decreases stress and increases focus. **All supplies will be provided. For more information, call 609-466-0846.**
Oct. 11 & 25, 11:15 a.m. – Creative Wellness with Shirin Stave-Matais. Achieve calm, gain control, and learn meditative practices through imaginative, joyful and social interaction. This class combines wellness exercises with Hatha and Chair yoga. Participants will learn gestural, improvisational, and world dance forms, sound therapy, creative play, guided relaxation and meditation techniques. **Participants of all skill levels are welcome, and the class can be practiced while standing or sitting.**
Oct. 12 & 26, 10 a.m. – Crocheting with Mary. Learn everything you need to know about crocheting, a fun hobby that can help people relax. In this class, you will find out how to hold the hook, learn common crochet stitches, and find out how to crochet “granny squares.” **All supplies will be provided. For more information, call 609-466-0846.**
Oct. 12, 10:15 a.m. – Ageless Grace Fitness Program with Certified Ageless Grace Educator Roz Gerken. Take this fitness program, to activate all five functions of the brain including strategic planning, memory, recall, analytical thinking, creativity, imagination, and kinesthetic thinking. Ageless Grace is based on the cutting-edge science of neuroplasticity, which means it will help the brain and central nervous system change both functionally and structurally. **Participants of all skill levels will be thoroughly engaged in the class while seated in a chair.**
Oct. 13, 11 a.m. – Bingo. Partake in a little bit of friendly competition and play Bingo, which is more than just an exciting activity. Researchers have found that playing Bingo provides multiple health benefits, such as promoting socialization, strengthening hand-eye coordination, and improving concentration, listening, and short-term memory skills.
Oct. 17 & 31, 11 a.m. – Ageless Grace Fitness Program with Certified Ageless Grace Educator Roz Gerken. Take this fitness program, to activate all five functions of the brain including strategic planning, memory, recall, analytical thinking, creativity, imagination, and kinesthetic thinking. Ageless Grace is based on the cutting-edge science of neuroplasticity, which means it will help the brain and central nervous system change both functionally and structurally. **Participants of all skill levels will be thoroughly engaged in the class while seated in a chair.**
Oct. 18, 11 a.m. – “Using Your Wits: Part 4” by Lisa Bayer, CDP, Always Best Care Senior Services. Learn about cognitive skills and explore mnemonic devices to help remember things more easily and in greater detail. Participants will also learn cognitive exercises to give their brains a good workout.
Oct. 20, 11 a.m. – “Beating the Holiday Blues for the Elderly” by Chris Kellogg, NightingaleNJ. Join this session to learn tools and techniques for managing the holiday blues.
Oct. 20 & 27, 1 p.m. – Left-Center-Right Game. Play this fun dice game to pass the time. There aren’t a lot of rules, so learning the game is a piece of cake.
Oct. 24, 11 a.m. – Musical Performance by Clifford Seay. Dance and sing along with Clifford while he performs everyone’s favorite hits from the 20th century.
Oct. 26, 10 a.m. – “Neuropathy & Back Pain” by Chiropractor Dr. Anthony Alfieri, Allcure Spine & Sports Medicine. Learn about neuropathy, a type of pain that approximately 20 million people struggle with in the United States. In this class, participants will find out about symptoms, causes, available treatments, for neuropathy and how it differs from other pain. Participants will also learn tips for making small changes that can positively impact their emotional and physical health. There will be a Q&A session at the end of the presentation.
Oct. 27, 10 a.m. – “Heart Health” by Educator Erika Van Wagner, MPH, CHES, Montgomery Township Health Department. Learn basic heart health tips and information, as well as ways to stay active and healthy.
QUAIL BROOK SENIOR CENTER
625 New Brunswick Road
Somerset, NJ 08873
732-563-4213
Walking Club – Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m. Enjoy the fresh air and outdoor activity that will keep participants moving in the right direction, as well as improving flexibility, lowering blood pressure, elevating the mood, and socializing with friends. **The session takes place when weather permits. For more information, call 732-563-4213.**
Bingocize, by Trained Instructor Deborah Gibson & Susan Pfeiff, Quail Brook Senior Center Participants, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 11 a.m. (Aug. through Oct. 19). Bingocize your brain and exercise your body during this fun class that combines exercise, bingo and helpful information about health. This is a fun way to get you moving and socializing. **Bingocize should only be played twice a week on non-consecutive days, and each session lasts approximately 45-60 minutes. For more information, call 732-563-4213.**
Card Club – Mondays, 1 p.m. – Join fellow game lovers to play your favorite card games including Rummy, Blackjack, Crazy Eights, and even Go Fish. Playing cards is a great way to socialize, relax, and use one’s critical thinking skills.
Take Control with Exercise – Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday, 10 a.m. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, and balance while boosting stamina during this gentle exercise program, presented in a video format. **Exercises can be practiced while either standing or sitting.**
Boggle Bonanza with Valerie Fryar – Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Picture this – seniors yelling out mono or multi-syllabic words. It’s Boggle, and it’s fun, but this game isn’t just fun it provides multiple health benefits such as boosting memory and concentration and relieving stress. Enjoy playing Boggle as a warmup to prepare for Wordle!
Geri-Fit with Karen Jessie – Wednesdays & Fridays, 10 a.m. (Oct. 4 – Jan. 3). Rebuild your strength for better functioning through Geri-Fit, a unique and beneficial exercise program that incorporates strength training with stretching and range of motion exercises, stability and balance training for fall prevention, cardiovascular activity for heart health, and gait exercises to help improve walking. ** The class is currently full. This exercise program can be practiced while sitting or standing. Participants need a set of light dumbbell weights (2 lbs.), a sturdy chair, a stretch band, and water to drink during the workout. This is a 45-minute class that takes place twice a week, for 12 weeks (24 classes). To be added to the waitlist, and for more information call 732-463-4213.**
Geri-Fit with Susan Pfeiff – Wednesdays & Fridays, 12:45 p.m. (Oct. 4 – Jan. 3)Rebuild your strength for better functioning through Geri-Fit, a unique and beneficial exercise program that incorporates strength training with stretching and range of motion exercises, stability and balance training for fall prevention, cardiovascular activity for heart health, and gait exercises to help improve walking. ** The class is currently full. This exercise program can be practiced while sitting or standing. Participants need a set of light dumbbell weights (2 lbs.), a sturdy chair, a stretch band, and water to drink during the workout. This is a 45-minute class that takes place twice a week, for 12 weeks (24 classes). The class is currently full. To be added to the waitlist, and for more information call 732-463-4213.**
Running with Rummikub – Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Play this fast-moving board game that requires a little bit of luck and a little bit of strategy. Playing Rummikub fosters social interaction, mental stimulation, and relaxation. This game is so much fun! **All levels of skill are welcome.**
(Hybrid) Wednesdays, 1 p.m. – Zumba Gold with Laurie Fetcher. Get your blood pumping to zesty music during this hearty workout to help build cardiovascular health. In this class, participants will exercise the hip, leg, and arm muscles and practice fun, rhythmic moves while sitting in a chair. **This is a hybrid class and will be presented live at the center by an instructor and simultaneously presented via Zoom.**
Introduction to Line Dancing 101 with Deborah Gibson – Thursdays at 1 p.m. Learn a new line dance to become familiar with the line dancing steps and movements. Each class will incorporate a new movement to build on the line dancing skills learned in the other classes.
Line Dancing – Fridays, 9 a.m. Improve cardiovascular and muscular strength, and balance while line dancing, which is so much fun it doesn’t even seem like exercise! Participants don’t need a partner, and it’s a great way to maintain mental and physical health.
Mahjong Meet Up – Fridays, 9:30 a.m. Play this fascinating game that requires skill, strategic thinking, and a little bit of luck. This is a six-week series and is open to beginners and those who need a refresher course. **For more information and to reserve a spot, contact the Quail Brook Senior Center at 732-563-4213.**
(Hybrid) Your Essence of Yoga with Raj Gupta, North American Vihangam Yoga – Fridays, 1 p.m. Learn traditional yoga poses as well as how to meditate through a combination of physical and mindful techniques. This class will help participants foster gentle self-awareness and help them obtain a level of serenity. **This is a hybrid class and will be presented live at the center by an instructor and simultaneously presented via Zoom.**
Oct. 2, 11 a.m. – “Proton Therapy: Pros and Cons” by Clinical Educator Jerry Rymer, ProCure Proton Therapy Center. Get an interesting overview of proton therapy, which is an advanced form of cancer treatment through radiation. Participants will learn the pros and cons of proton therapy and what types of tumors can be treated with this therapy.
Oct. 3,17 &31, 1 p.m. – Wordle with Chris. Play a fun vocabulary-building game to stimulate your brain.
Oct. 4, 11 a.m. – “Be on the Sunny Side: Skin Health” by Community Cancer Control Specialist Gabriella Dumbrique, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Learn how to lower the risk of skin cancer through sun protection and limiting sun exposure. Participants will also find out how to identify a cancerous spot on the skin, how often to get checked for skin cancer, and the treatment options available for skin cancer.
Oct. 6, 11 a.m. Medicare: 2024 Updates by Regional Director, Region 2, Dr. Dara Kass, United States Department of Health. Learn about the updates to 2024 Medicare benefits, including eligibility requirements and changes in coverage. There will be a Q&A session after the presentation.
Oct. 10 & 24, 1 p.m. – Cornhole with the Quail Brook Senior Center Participants. Play one of the most popular bag toss games in the United States and connect with others while having fun.
Oct. 11, 11 a.m. – “Keeping a Healthy Mind” by Certified Dementia Practitioner Andi Noble, Residence at Basking Ridge. Learn simple ways to keep the mind healthy, including meditation, exercise, and leisure activities to help promote emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Oct. 13, 11 a.m. – Board Games. Join other senior center members for a fun day of playing board games such as Scrabble, Checkers, and Chess. Playing board games is a great way to relax and socialize.
Oct. 16, 11 a.m. – Fall Favorites: Harp Melodies. Listen to the dulcet tones of the harp, a complicated and beautiful instrument, in a performance by Patricia Turse who has been a musician and music therapist for over 25 years.
Oct. 18, 11 a.m. – “Crazy Daisy” by Carol Simon Levin. Sit back and enjoy this impersonation of Juliette Gordon Low an impulsive, nearly deaf, eccentric, and fun-loving transatlantic socialite who founded the movement that empowered tens of millions of girls worldwide.
Oct. 20, 11 a.m. – “Vision Loss: Tips and Tricks” by Elsa Zavoda, Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey. Learn how to protect your vision by implementing tactical changes to your living environment and using other environmental aids. This will help participants with visual impairment learn how they can better perform daily activities.
Oct. 23, 11 a.m. – NJ Shares by Nicholas Carra, NJ Shares. Learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply for assistance programs such as payment for utility bills and more.
Oct. 24, 11 a.m. – Watercolor Butterflies. Learn how to paint watercolor butterflies using a velvet butterfly template. **All supplies will be provided. For more information, call 732-563-4213.**
Oct. 25, 11 a.m. – “Bringing Vegetables to the Table” by Jennifer Korneski, Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Learn about the health benefits of eating vegetables as well as interesting facts, historical information, how to store and prepare vegetables, creative ways to add more vegetables to your diet and if you and your family are meeting vegetable-intake guidelines. Studies show eating a variety of vegetables may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and specific types of cancer.
Oct. 26, 11 a.m. – Bingo. Partake in a little bit of friendly competition and play Bingo, which is more than just an exciting activity. Researchers have found that playing Bingo provides multiple health benefits, such as promoting socialization, strengthening hand-eye coordination, and improving concentration, listening, and short-term memory skills.
Oct. 27, 11 a.m. – Smart911 by Russell Corleto, Somerset County Communications. Learn how Smart911, a simple app, can help provide first responders with necessary information before they arrive at a 911 call.
Oct. 30, 11 a.m. – Karaoke Kompetition. Participate in a karaoke competition for musical fun and friendship.
Oct. 31, 11 a.m. – Halloween Celebration with Entertainment by Blue Smoke Band William Trimarco. Wear a costume and enjoy spooktacular Halloween music at this fun party.
WARRENBROOK SENIOR CENTER
500 Warrenville Road
Warren, NJ 07059
908-753-9440
Billiards Room – Available daily. The pool table is available daily on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Computer Lab – Available daily. Participants are invited to use the computers at their leisure.
Carrom – Available daily. Play this fun game, which is similar to billiards and table shuffleboard.
Games/Cards (Scrabble, Uno, Canasta, etc.) – Available daily. Have fun playing these games or suggest another one of your favorites.
Jigsaw Puzzles – Available daily. Strike up a conversation, make new friends and have fun putting together a puzzle. There are a wide variety of puzzles available at the senior center.
Lending Library – Available daily. Pick up a paperback book and return it when you are finished reading.
Watercolor Paint Class – Monday & Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Practice your craft with other experienced artists and meet new people. **All supplies are included.**
1 on 1 Computer with Sal DiBianca – Mondays, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn how to email, play solitaire and search the web. At the end of the eight-week, one-on-one class, participants will finally understand what their grandkids have been trying to explain. **To register and for more information, call 908-753-9440.**
Stretch & Strength with Warrenbrook Senior Center volunteers Kanwaljit Minhas and Emma (Connie) Deversterre – Mondays, 10:15 a.m. – Improve flexibility and balance with stretching, which keeps the muscles flexible, strong and healthy to help maintain a range of motion in the joints.
Mahjong for Intermediate Players – Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Join other intermediate mahjong players for a game of strategy and calculation. **For more information, call 908-753-9440.**
Zumba Gold with Judith –Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:15 a.m. (Sept. 15 – Nov. 10). Get your blood pumping with zesty music and a hearty workout. Build cardiovascular health by challenging your heart and exercising, the hip, leg, and arm muscles when performing fun and rhythmic moves while sitting in a chair. **The cost is $40 for the eight-week program. This class is suitable for beginners or anyone who needs modifications to their exercise routine. To register or for more information, call 908-753-9440.**
Bridge Group with Ronnie – Tuesdays & Fridays, 1 – 3 p.m. Play Bridge, a mentally challenging card game that provides intellectual and social interaction. Playing bridge regularly can stimulate the brain to keep it alert and help it stay active. **New members and beginners are always welcome. Lessons are available.**
Gentle Yoga with Jillian – Tuesdays, 1 p.m. (Sept. 14 – Nov. 2) Practice Hatha yoga poses, while either sitting or standing, to increase bone density and improve strength, flexibility, and balance while being immersed in a relaxing class. Expect lots of gentle stretching to bring movement to joints and muscles. The class is perfect for relieving stress, and it also helps achieve an overall sense of well-being. **The cost is $40 for the eight-week program. This class is appropriate for all skill levels. For more information and to register for the next session, call 908-753-9440.**
Project Healthy Bones – Wednesdays, 10 a.m. (Oct. 4 – March 13) – Improve balance, strength, flexibility, and posture in this peer-led, 24-week exercise and education program for individuals who are either at risk for osteoporosis or have it. **This class is currently full. To hear about other opportunities, call (908) 753-9440.**
Take Control with Exercise – Wednesdays, 10 a.m. Strengthen core muscles and improve flexibility, and balance while boosting stamina during this gentle exercise program. **There is no fee for this class. Exercises can be practiced while either standing or sitting. For more information, call 908-753-9440.**
Advanced Bridge – First & Third Wednesdays, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Bridge is a mentally challenging card game that offers intellectual and social stimulation. Playing bridge regularly stimulates one’s brain and helps keep the memory active and alert. **This group is for advanced players only. For more information, call 908-753-9440.**
Gentle Yoga with Jillian –Thursdays, 10 a.m. Practice Hatha yoga poses while either sitting or standing, to increase bone density and improve strength, flexibility, and balance while immersed in a relaxing class. Expect lots of gentle stretching to bring movement to joints and muscles. The class is perfect for relieving stress, and it also helps participants achieve an overall sense of well-being. **The cost is $40 for the eight-week program. This class is appropriate for all skill levels. For more information and to register for the next session, call 908-753-9440.**
Art Hour with Jean Mazet & Kamwaljit Minhas – Thursdays, 1 – 3 p.m. Meet new people while creating an art piece using either watercolors or acrylics.**All supplies will be provided. For more information, call 908-753-9440.**
Canasta – Thursdays, 1 – 3 p.m. Join fellow senior wellness center members to play this fun and interesting game Canasta, which requires the use of tactical and strategic thinking.
Tai Chi with Roger – Fridays, 10 a.m. Reduce your risk of falling by practicing Tai Chi. In this class, participants will focus on shifting body weight through a series of light, controlled movements that flow rhythmically into one long gesture. Studies have shown that participants experience a reduction in pain, fatigue and stiffness and have gained a greater sense of well-being. **This program can be practiced while either standing or sitting.**
Bridge – Fridays, 1 –3 p.m. Bridge is a mentally challenging card game that offers intellectual and social stimulation. Regularly playing bridge stimulates the brain and helps keep the memory active and the brain alert. **For more information, call 908-753-9440.**
Oct. 2, 11 a.m. – “Perseverance: NASA’s Mars Rover” by Paul Cirillo. Learn all about NASA’s latest mission to Mars with the Mars Perseverance 2020 Rover. Find out how the Rover can look for signs of habitable conditions on Mars in the ancient past such as microbial life, and how to drill to collect core samples from Mars to save for future examination. The mission will also pave the way for future visits as NASA will continue to examine how to produce oxygen, identify water resources, improve landing techniques, and define weather, dust, and other potential environmental conditions that could affect future astronauts living and working on Mars.
Oct. 4, 11 a.m. – “New Jersey’s Glamorous Governor: Robert Baumle Meyner” by Joseph Wroblewski. Learn about the two-term Democrat Governor of New Jersey (1954-1962), how he became involved in politics, his achievements and his marriage to Helen Stevenson the “First Lady of New Jersey.”
Oct. 5, 11 a.m. –Trivia: Potluck Quiz with Angela. Try your luck with trivia games such as “Nursery Rhymes Crimes” and “Words Starting With” trivia.
Oct. 6 & 20, 11 a.m. – Brain Games and Handbells with Adrienne Graubard. Play mind-tingling, brain-stumping word games, and have a fun-filled musical workout using handbells and solve puzzles with challenging, mind-stretching activities to stimulate the brain and enhance creative and critical thinking processes.
(Virtual) Oct. 10, 1:30 p.m. – Monthly Book Club (Every Second Tuesday). Join other book club lovers to discuss “The Last Summer at the Golden Hotel” a domestic fiction novel by Elyssa Friedland and select the next book to read. **This book club is only for Warrenbrook Senior Center Participants. New members are always welcome.**
Oct. 11, 11 a.m. – Musical Entertainment with Ken Kuehl. Enjoy this vocal and guitar performance of popular songs from the 50s and 60s.
Oct. 11, 1 p.m. – “A Stitch in Time,” by Member of the New Jersey Needle Artists, Sue Chadwick. Learn all about needlepoint, one of the oldest forms of embroidery dating back thousands of years to the Ancient Egyptians. In this class, participants will learn the history of embroidery, how to get started, and the variety of stitches. Participants will also enjoy beautiful examples of works completed by the club.
Oct. 12, 11 a.m. – “Armchair Travels: Egypt” with Maritza. Travel to Egypt in your mind’s eye to an exotic wonderland of the ancient past. Explore pyramids, temples, and treasure-filled ancient tombs. Learn about the ancient monuments in Egypt and the mysterious life and death of Egypt’s Queen Nefertiti. There will be a fun quiz at the end of the trip.
Oct. 13, 11 a.m. – Craft: Embroider a Bag with Parul. Create and stitch a design on a bag that has an open weave to make stitching easy. The bag is perfect for holding change or small items.**All supplies will be provided. For more information, call 908-753-9440.**
Oct. 13, 1 p.m. – Physical Therapy Screenings with Nicholas Matthes, Trinity Rehabilitation Center of Warren. Get a free 10-minute physical therapy screening. ** For more information and to register, call 908-753-9440.**
Oct. 16, 11 a.m. – “Emergency Preparedness” by Eldercare Educator Josh O’Neal, Somerset County Office on Aging & Disability Services. Learn about emergency preparedness including why it is important to prepare for an emergency, how to prepare for an emergency, and what disasters are common to the local area.
Oct. 18, 11 a.m. Bingo with Rashmi. Take part in a little bit of friendly competition and play Bingo, which is more than just an exciting activity. Researchers have found that playing Bingo provides multiple health benefits, such as promoting socialization, strengthening hand-eye coordination, and improving concentration, listening, and short-term memory skills.
Oct. 19, 11 a.m. – Jeopardy with Parul. Play this intellectually stimulating game for fun.
Oct. 23, 11 a.m. – “Medicare Benefits & Savings” by Regional Director, Region 2, Dr. Dara Kass, U.S. Get a brief overview of Medicare and the Inflation Reduction Act. Participants will also learn about receiving free vaccines, lower-cost prescriptions, and over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids through Medicare.
Oct. 23, 1 p.m. – Breathing Techniques for Mental Wellness by Dr. Prabha Srinivas. Learn techniques to distract the mind and induce calm when experiencing an anxiety attack. Find out what preventative measures can be practiced on a regular basis to develop an awareness of anxiety triggers to help calm and regulate the nervous system.
Oct. 25, 11 a.m. – “Long Term Care Continuum: Things to Consider” by Chris Kellogg, NightingaleNJ. Learn about the advantages of various long-term care options, the cost associated with each option, and what to consider when choosing to care for yourself or a loved one.
Oct. 26, 11 a.m. – Dice Games with Parul. Play dice games like Cover the Number, Sevens Game, Round the Clock, Draw a Beetle, All 6 Game and 5000Dice. Dice games are fun and versatile and provide social opportunities to stimulate the senses.
Oct. 27, 11 a.m. – Craft: Quilt with Parul. Create a unique velvet quilt then color the twenty-five, eight-inch squares with markers, then string the squares together to create a beautiful wall hanging. When the quilt is completed, it will be hung at the senior center. **All supplies will be provided. For more information, call 908-753-9440.**
Oct. 30, 11 a.m. – Halloween Celebrations. Dress in a costume, play Halloween Bingo, Halloween Candy Walk and sing Halloween songs to have a spooktacular time.
To stay up to date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.