Keep your mind and body active by learning something new, taking on a new fitness routine, or connecting with a community discussion group to share new concepts. Here are a few ideas of no or low-cost activities, classes, and resources.
Well-being
Kaiser Permanente offers classes, from fitness to pain or stress management, and several support groups to build community around the tough parts of life. For an in-person class, check out our Events and Classes page. If you would like to join a digital coaching program, follow the steps listed from our healthy lifestyle programs.
Back to the classroom
Community colleges and universities have an incredible range of classes on every subject imaginable. There is no need to stress about grades or cram for any tests; it’s all about keeping your mind sharp and expanding your knowledge. Some educational institutions in Washington may reduce or waive tuition fees for residents age 60 or older where space is available. It doesn’t matter what stage you are in life, immersing yourself in an environment that stimulates your mind can help you grow and learn something new.
If a traditional classroom isn’t the place for you, senior centers in every city offer all kinds of classes. Some are educational, and others can be fun activities or game based. Senior centers are a great place to get connected with fellow community members and neighbors in your area. Check out the senior center in your city and challenge yourself to try something new.
Fitness programs
Join a fitness class to help you stay active and healthy. Classes specific for seniors are available in your local community.
Gail, a Kaiser Permanente Medicare Advantage (HMO) plan member, attends an Enhanced fitness class 3 days a week at the Kaiser Permanente Capitol Hill Medical Center. After attending the class for a year, she took a bone density test and found that her bones have gotten stronger and her risk of breaking a bone in the future had gone down.
“I would encourage anyone to come and try the class,” Gail says. “It’s very approachable. You don’t have to be slim and fit and wear a matching leotard. Don’t let your hesitation hold you back.”
Walking of any form and at any place is very beneficial for your health, but you might as well make it fun and adventurous. Kaiser Permanente teams up with Woodland Park Zoo and Seattle Parks and Rec to offer “Senior Zoo Walkers,” a self-guided walk through the animal kingdom twice a week — Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:15 to 10:45 a.m. This low-cost activity is a great way to get active, connect with friends, and learn more about some incredible animals. For registration questions, please contact the zoo registration office at 206-548-2424, extension 4.
Book club
Reading is a great way to expand the mind. Check out goodreads.com to find a good book. Build a book club with friends and get together to discuss your latest read. Or check your local library for a book recommendation and a book group you can join.
Other activities
The Senior Caucus meeting is a great event for seniors to give input to Kaiser Permanente executives, medical staff, managers, and other staff on timely topics related to healthy aging. It’s a meeting open to all; however, it’s particularly relevant to those age 60 and over. There are no fees or dues. All you need to do is show up to the Sound View Room on the 6th floor in the Capitol Hill Campus Main Building from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on the first Friday of every month, September to June. There is not a meeting in August but be sure to go to the meeting on September 6.
This fall isn’t just about kids going back to school; there’s so much to learn at every stage in life.
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