Classes & Activities

The Senior Center offers a broad range of in-person and virtual programs, activities and services to meet the needs of a diverse and growing West Seattle community. We also welcome volunteers to contribute their time in all our programs.

Update on Class RSVPs

Update on Our COVID Safety Policies

Masks are HIGHLY recommended

Although not mandated while you are at the Senior Center, please consider wearing a mask while you participate in activities at the Senior Center. Staff and volunteers who serve food will be wearing masks. You are free to take off your mask while eating in the café or dining room.

Vaccinations STRONGLY Encouraged

Per the King County Department of Health, vaccinations are strongly encouraged, but no longer required, to enter our facility.

Please note – in some instances where programs or services are offered in a one-on-one setting, masks and vaccinations may continue to be required.

Thanks for helping us continue to provide a safe environment for our community’s seniors.

Upcoming Holidays, Special Events and Workshops

Are you an artist ages 55+?

Sound Generations is inviting artists to submit their work for consideration in our 2024 calendar. Twelve images will be selected; all forms of 2D art are welcome including photography, watercolor, acrylic and more. Submissions will remain open until

Sept. 1 or until all slots are filled. Learn more: soundgenerations.org/call-for-art-2024-calendar.

Piano Bar 

Thursday June 1, 7-10 pm

Join Larry Knapp and guest musicians for an evening of fantastic live music at the Senior Center. Singers and musicians of all ages are welcome to join in at our popular monthly event. Wine, beer, specialty cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. $10 entry fee. Register below or at the door.

Register

Creative Workshop For Caregivers

May 24, 1-2 pm

This workshop, led by teaching artist Carmen Ficarra, is in partnership with the Frye Art Museum’s Creative Aging Program. This art-making session is designed to give caregivers an opportunity to create in a fun and relaxing manner. We’ll be working with materials that allow you to engage and experiment, with the goal of creating work that is an expression of your own unique style. While the workshop will focus on how caregivers can turn to art in their own leisure time, we’ll also discuss the possibilities of doing creative projects with those in their care. No prior experience as an artist is necessary! Free and art materials provided.

Limited space; RSVP to Brittany: brittanybl@soundgenerations.org or 206-727-6261.

Tree Talks

Retired political science professor and self-taught tree enthusiast Al Rouyer is back with two new lectures on trees.

Free to members, $5 non-members

Heritage Trees of West Seattle

Thursday, May 25, 11 am – 12:30 pm

Heritage trees are trees that have been given special designation by the city of Seattle for their elegance, beauty, size and age. This presentation will explain the Heritage Tree program and the process of how a tree can get that designation. The lecture will point out many West Seattle Heritage trees with descriptions of their features. A complimentary map of West Seattle’s Heritage trees will be provided.

The Trees of Lincoln Park

Thursday, June 22, 11 am-12:30 pm

West Seattle’s Lincoln Park has one of the largest varieties of both native and non-native trees in Seattle including many rare trees. Visitors enjoy the lovely views and recreational facilities and never know that the tree they are walking under could be the only one of its kind in the city or native to one of the far corners of the earth. Al’s presentation reveals some of these hidden gems and describes their features. A complimentary map of the trees of Lincoln Park will be provided.

Chocolate Making with Chef Poole

Thursday, June 8, 11am – 1 pm

Fee: $10 members, $15 non-members.

Discover the art of making hand-crafted artisan chocolate bars in this class led by award-winning chocolatier Chef Poole of Hot Chocolat. Learn the science of tempering chocolates, acquire the skill of pouring chocolate into molds and learn how to hand-paint chocolate bars. Limited space. Sign up at the Front Desk or call 206-932-4044 x1.

Family Caregiver Workshop

Thursday, June 29, 9 am-1 pm

This workshop is for Alzheimer’s and dementia family caregivers to gain a better understanding of dementia, utilize strategies to effectively manage dementia behaviors and develop habits of stress management and self-care. Caregivers who attend the four-hour workshop will receive a copy of Dealing with Dementia, a guide with more than 300 pages of information and solutions to problems caregivers face. Free; space is limited. Register online at: AlzheimersCaregivers.org/workshops.

Health and Wellness Programs

The Senior Center supports our community’s physical, emotional and mental health. From in-person fitness classes and foot care clinics to technology support groups and virtual Qigong, we provide a holistic approach to keeping you healthy as you age.

Fitness Classes

Balance & Strength

Wednesdays and Fridays, 10-11am

Improve your balance and prevent falls with this class that utilizes elements of tai chi, qigong and yoga. We incorporate exercises to learn, practice and improve the many components of balance such as specific balance exercises, lower body strength, flexibility and mindfulness. We allow for a wide range of abilities and use assistive devices such as chairs and tables.

Enhance Fitness

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 9-10am

Fee: Free for members and $5 per class for nonmembers. Enhance Fitness class is free to Kaiser Permanente Medicare Advantage members and some Silver and Fit providers. Check eligibility with your insurance company.

Join our fitness instructor for this innovative class combining aerobics, strength, balance and stretching. No experience needed to join in the fun and stay active.

Gentle Chair Yoga

Mondays, 10-11am

Join certified yoga instructor Nadine Blinn for a fun and relaxing class of chair and standing poses (no floor sitting) to improve breathing, flexibility, balance and mood. Poses can be adapted to your abilities or limitations. Wear comfortable clothing.

Get Moving!

Tuesdays, 9:30-10:30am

Physical therapist Sherryl DeVries will teach this multi-level variety workout class for everyone, especially for people with a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Exercises will include big movement, cardio, weight training, dance movement and boxing. All movements can be modified with a chair. Show up ready to move!

Hatha Yoga

Fridays, 11:30am-12:30pm

Certified yoga instructor Nadine Blinn uses soft versions of poses designed for seniors that are held for longer periods allowing the body to ease into them. This class includes floor and chair exercises, so please bring a mat. Expect a calm beginning and end with a relaxed pace. Chairs are available for assistance in balancing and pose adaptations. Beginners through experienced yogis are welcome!

Moving Through Cancer Exercise Class – On Zoom

Mondays, 1-2 pm

Wednesdays, 10-11 am 

This virtual class is designed for cancer survivors in collaboration with UW Medical Research. Participants have completed their cancer treatment and are looking for specialized exercises. Call 206-932-4044, Ext 1 for more information.

Tai Chi

Thursdays, 10-11am

Notes: 
*No class June 15*
*Class time is 9:30-10:30 am on May 25 & June 22*

Improve your balance and increase your energy, strength and coordination. Join instructor Richard Lazeres for a continuing six-week class that blends exercises for health benefits, longevity and fun.

Health & Wellness Services

Dental Hygiene Clinics

Fridays, June 23, Aug. 25, Oct. 27 – 9am-5pm 

Estimated Fee: $94-124. Appointment required.

Get your pearly whites cleaned at the Senior Center by Dental Hygienist Jan Loder-Gaidos, RDH.Pick up an application form at the Senior Center and call Jan’s  office at 206-498-4023 to set up an appointment.

Foot Care

Fridays, June 30; July 7, 21; August 4, 18

Fee: $40 members, $50 non-members. Appointment required.

Give your feet the attention they deserve with a foot care appointment with Nurses Keith Germain or Carly McCaffray. Various times are available. To register, call the Senior Center: 206-932-4044 x1.

Healing Touch

Thursdays, 9-10:30am

During ancient times “laying on of hands” served as a first-line therapy for people who were suffering. Today, these same energy practices are finding a place in modern medicine. Many clients report a sense of “relaxation and wellbeing” after a 20-minute session in the chair. Patty Bodzioch, Healing Touch Certified Practitioner, offers these sessions of gentle, light or near body touch.

Connection to the Community Programs

The Senior Center is a community gathering place for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities where everyone is welcome. We offer a place to meet friends, enjoy a healthy meal, take a class and engage in a vibrant social network.

Actividades En Español Con El Apoyo De Sea Mar Community Health Center’s Staff

Sea Mar Activities in Spanish

Martes (Tuesdays) 9am-2pm

El Personal de Sea Mar le da la bienvenida a todos los miembros para disfrutar de un día completo de actividades divertidas, socialización y almuerzo en Español. Para obtener más información, envíe un correo electrónico a Yanin Diaz a yanindiaz@ seamarchc.org o llame al 206-764-8041.

We welcome all members of the Latinx community for a full day of activities, social time, and lunch. For more information, contact Yanin Diaz at yanindiaz@ seamarchc.org or call 206-764-8041.

American Mahjong

Wednesdays, 1-3pm

Stimulate your brain by playing this ancient Chinese tile game that is similar to the card game Rummy. Meet new people and have fun. All levels of players are welcome.

Chess Club

Tuesdays, 1:30-3pm

Are you looking for a new activity to keep your brain sharp and clear? Join us at 1:30 p.m. for lessons, short tutorials and chess for all levels of expertise. For info: Conwell Dickey: conwell@conwelld.net.

Coffee with Vets

Tuesday, June 13, 11am-12pm

Local veterans enjoy coffee and conversation, then stay for lunch! This is a great opportunity to get to know other veterans and hear stories about their time in the military and other topics.

Community Dining & Meals

Our Community Dining Program and Margie’s Cafe are open! Please see our Food and Dining page for more details.

NEW! Conversation & Friendship Corner

Thursdays, May 25; June 8, 22, 1-2 pm

We may know the value of friendships, but many of us have trouble maintaining regular contact or even recognizing where there may be opportunities for friendships to grow. Joe Lamy will lead discussions that encourage group reflection and provide tips on how to cultivate richer connections.

Cribbage

Tuesdays, 12:30-3pm

If you are a cribbage player, it’s time to meet up again at the Senior Center. To sign up, contact Jay Fulwider: budandotis@msn.com or 206-257-5599.

Current Events Discussion Group

Thursdays, June 1, 15, 29; July 13, 27; August 10, 24, 1-2:30pm

Closed to new members

Join us for an engaging discussion of what’s going on in the world. We welcome a diversity of opinions. Led by our social worker Toni Ameslav, MSW, this group meets every other week at the Senior Center. To register, call Toni at 206-932-4044 x9 or tonia@soundgenerations.org.

Special Luncheons

May Birthday Luncheon – Mary Poppins – SOLD OUT!

June Birthday Luncheon – Live Music with 4-Ever Young

Older Westside Lesbian Group (Owls)

Monthly picnics in Lincoln Park June-September 

We welcome everyone to join us for OWLS where we always do something fun! To be added to our email list and get connected to this group, contact Dee Quiggle: deequiggle2@gmail.com.

Party Bridge

Wednesdays, 10am – noon

Join us for Party Bridge at the Senior Center. If you love playing cards with your friends, come win tricks with us every week. To sign up, contact Kim Roper: kimputer@comcast.net.

Pinochle

Thursdays, 12-3pm

No partner needed for this fun game. We will be playing in person at the Senior Center. To sign up, contact Susan Berven: suebee98126@yahoo.com.

Scrabble Club

Fridays, 12:30-1:30pm

Meet up with your friends at Margie’s Café for the ultimate crossword game where every letter counts. It’s fun, engaging and good for your brain, too.

Westside Friends Outreach Program

Our Westside Friends program matches you with a Senior Center volunteer for ongoing companionship and practical help. Our volunteers can chat over the phone, visit with you in-person while taking COVID-19 safety precautions, or help you with tasks like grocery shopping or picking up library books. Many of our volunteers and seniors have created deep, long-lasting connections. To register, contact Michele Fawcett-Long at michelef@soundgenerations.org.

Lifelong Learning and Growth Programs

At the Senior Center you can expand your interests, launch a new hobby and learn something new every day. Our members, participants and volunteers have a wealth of knowledge and talents, and we provide opportunities to both share and learn. You can practice a foreign language, learn to paint, find fellow hobbyists, share your love of cinema, write a memoir, hone your computer skills and much, much more. We are adding new programs every quarter.

Arts & Crafts Group

Thursdays, 12-4pm

If you do beadwork, paint, do collage, mixed media, bookmaking, doll making, embroidery, knitting, crocheting or are looking for a place to explore a new art form, come join us. For more information, contact Linda Hulce: 206-755-1472 or lulce6@aol.com.

Exploring Art Class

Tuesdays, 10:30am-12pm

Explore, learn and create art using a variety of techniques and materials, from watercolor and acrylic paint to pastels and pen and ink. Even if you feel like you aren’t creative or an artist, we can find a way to create something amazing together. Instructor Laura will share her techniques and tricks with you to make sure everyone feels that creative spark.

Book Club for Adventurous Readers

Friday June 9, 1:30-2:30pm

We will explore it all—fiction, non-fiction, bestsellers, fantasy, sci-fi and young adult literature. Please come prepared to share a book recommendation and enjoy lively discussion. New members are welcome!

Conversational German

Tuesdays, 10-11am

*No class May 23*

Come speak German and make new friends at this informal weekly gathering, back in person at the Senior Center. Begleiten Sie Uns!

Ham Radio Group

Monday, June 5, 5:45-7:30 pm

Meet with members of the West Seattle Amateur Radio Club and find out how amateur radio can benefit you and your community. This meeting runs concurrent with the club’s Monday Night Net (6:15-7 p.m.) so you can listen in or join the conversation. For info: Jim Edwards: wsbigband@gmail.com.

Hand Drumming Workshop

Tuesdays, 2:30-4pm

Experience relaxation, energy and well-being when you join Kenny Mandell’s popular workshop. No experience necessary. Drums and/or rattles provided, but if you have your own, please bring them.

Line Dancing

Mondays 11am-12pm

Dancing is a great source of fitness, and line dancing helps keep the mind young. Experienced instructor Chris Banta teaches line dances to a variety of music, from traditional country to ballroom, Latin and waltz. All levels are welcome in this friendly group and no partners needed. Come for fun and exercise!

Journaling For Mindfulness

Wednesdays, May 24; June 14, 28 ,11 am – 12:30 pm

Counselor and certified teacher Kristine Kero explores the daily practice of mindful journaling which has been scientifically shown to improve wellness and relieve stress. Timed prompts will provide self-reflection to explore how to journal for mindfulness, focus on breathing for calmness and other empowering strategies. Please bring a journal or notebook to do writing exercises. You do not have to share what you write.

Quilters Group

Mondays June 5, 19, 6:30-9pm

Share your recent work, get inspiration and join a fun community of local quilters. Quilters of all levels of experience are welcome. To sign up, contact Mary Anne Spada: spada01@comcast.net or 206 795-5774.

Readers Theatre

Wednesdays, May 10 – June 28, 3-5 pm

Ever thought about acting? Join us in a style of theatre in which you read from the script while using vocal expressions and interactions to add drama onstage.

In preparation for a performance, attendance for the full time-frame is requested. Last day of class is a live performance at the Senior Center. Space limited; sign up by May 8. Fee: $25. For info: Ginny Moore, director: ginnytm@gmail.com.

Salads With Chef Hayla

Thursdays, May 25, June 29, 5-6 pm

Fee: $10 members, $15 non-members.

Limited space. Advance RSVP and masks required.

Looking to jazz up your salad game in time for the summer season? Join Chef Hayla of Margie’s Café to learn tips and techniques for making your vegetables more exciting. We will cover salad preparation techniques and the formula for making fresh, tasty homemade dressings. At the end of each class, you will get to enjoy a salad with a side of freshly-baked beer bread.

NEW! Casual Spanish Conversation Class

Thursdays, 10-11 am

Former Spanish instructor Susan Aardal Montacute welcomes both beginners and intermediate-level speakers. Sessions will be loosely structured with instruction given as needed, as well as weekly topic sheets. All are welcome to try. Hasta la vista!

Ukes Sing-a-Long

Mondays, 1-2:30pm

Join this lively group for weekly ukulele playing and singing. Open to all musicians and singers. For more information, contact Charlie Strong: charliestrong@ earthlink.net.

Writing Group

Wednesdays June 7, 21, 11am-12:30 pm

This writing group encourages you to write for your family or for yourself. Facilitated by Natalie Bumgardner, the group shares stories in a comfortable environment with fellow writers offering comments and encouragement. To participate, contact Natalie in advance for materials and other info (space limited): nataliebumgardner@yahoo.com

Technology Programs

Burke Dykes Computer Lab

Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 8:30 am- 5 pm

Come to the Senior Center to check your email, surf the internet or play games. By appointment only.

Free Laptops & Internet Service

Finally ready to dive fully into the digital world? Through a grant, we are able to provide Dell laptop computers and internet service to individuals who do not have home access to a reliable computer and who meet certain income requirements. We’ll also provide training and tech support while you learn about your device! Call the Senior Center and ask to speak with our Digital Navigator, Martin.

You Might Qualify For Free High-Speed Internet!

The Affordable Connectivity Program was created by Congress and provides qualifying individuals with up to $30 per month toward internet service and up to $100 to purchase a new device. To see if you qualify, go to fcc.gov/acp or call Martin at the Senior Center.

Guided Computer Support

By appointment, suggested donation: $10

We can support you as you browse online or work in programs like Word, Excel, Zoom, Skype and more. Get help with online tasks like renewing your driver’s license, responding to jury summons, opening your first email account, setting up online banking or researching a specific topic.

Mobile Device Learning Communities

Free to members, $5 non-members. Advance RSVP requested.

Do you have 1 or 2 (or 3!) questions about your phone or tablet? Or have you just learned a great feature about your phone and are willing to share that knowledge with others? Join us to learn more about your device and teach others what you know. Our Digital Navigator, Martin, will moderate the group and provide support.

Android Learning Community (Phones and tablets by Samsung, Google, Motorola, etc.)
Mondays June 5, 26, 3-4:30 p.m.

iOS Learning Community (iPhones, iPads)
Mondays June 19, July 10 3-4:30 p.m.

Tech Support

Thursdays and Fridays, by appointment

Suggested donation: $10

Bring in your smart phone, tablet or laptop to get help from our tech-savvy volunteers. We can help you recover forgotten passwords, download apps for your smart phone, fill out online forms, text a photo, delete old email addresses, manage icons on your home screen, updates Windows, connect a Bluetooth device, and much more. By appointment only. To register, call the Senior Center at 206-932-4044 x1.

Accessible Services Programs

The Senior Center is an important gateway to services that many of us need as we age. We provide meals, counseling and referrals to services like transportation and public benefit services. Our professional staff social workers ensure our community’s most vulnerable seniors are safe, healthy and connected. Many West Seattle seniors need additional services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aging Well Group

Mondays 1-2:30pm 

Fee: Free to everyone.

Through discussions and sharing, participants in Aging Well support each other at this weekly group that meets in person at the Senior Center. All discussions are confidential. To register, contact our social worker Mo Fain: 206-932-4044 x2 or maureenf@soundgenerations.org.

Virtual Caregivers Support Group

Wednesdays May 24; June 7, 21, 1:30-2:30 pm

Share your challenges and successes with other caregivers. Peer support can help with both the practical and emotional aspects of caregiving. All caregivers are welcome, whether the person you care for is local or in another city. If you are interested in joining the group or have questions, please contact our social worker, Toni Ameslav, MSW, at 206-932-4044 x9 or tonia@soundgenerations.org.

Diabetic Support Group

Friday June 2, 1-2 p.m.

​If you are diabetic or pre-diabetic, have a friend or family member who is or are simply interested in the topic, join our monthly meetings. Topics include nutrition,foot care and vision care. To register, contact our social worker, Toni Ameslav: 206-932-4044 x9 or tonia@soundgenerations.org.

Legal Consultations

Need legal advice? Our volunteer attorneys provide free 20-minute consultations if you need legal resources, help with estate planning or have questions about elder law. By appointment only. To register, call the Senior Center at 206-932-4044 x1.

John Llewellyn, Attorney

Thursdays, June 1, 15, 3:30-5 p.m.

Heather De Vrieze, Attorney

Tuesdays, May 30, June 27, 2:30-4 p.m.

Meals on Wheels

If you need additional food support, Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meal delivery at no cost for people ages 60-plus who qualify. The Senior Center operates this program in coordination with Sound Generations. To sign up or to volunteer, visit soundgenerations.org.

Medicare Presentation & 1:1 Appointments

Thursdays, June 1, 11 am-12:30 pm

Patrice Lewis will go over the basics of Medicare, review options available to you and discuss what to consider when selecting a plan. Patrice is also available to meet one-to-one with a pre-scheduled appointment.

West Seattle Food Bank Distribution

Tuesdays, 9am

In partnership with the West Seattle Food Bank, we offer weekly boxes of nutritious food at no cost. Pick up is at the Senior Center every Tuesday. To register, call the Senior Center at 206-932-4044 x1.

Movie Mondays

Our in-person movies are back on a new day of the week. Join us Mondays for a great flick. Advance registration is required. Movies are free for members, $5 for nonmembers. To register, call the Senior Center at 206-932-4044 x1.

Terry’s “Greatest Movies You’ve Never Heard Of”

Mondays, 1-3pm
Nucor Room, Second-Floor

FREE POPCORN! Now Featuring Newsreels, previews and cartoons.

May 22: In Her Shoes (2005) with Shirley MacLaine, Cameron Diaz, Toni Collette, Brooke Smith, Norman Lloyd. (129 min.) Rated PG-13

May 29: Senior Center closed for Memorial Day weekend

June 5: Blue Skies (1946) with Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, Joan Caulfield, Billy De Wolfe, Frank Faylen. (104 min.)

June 12: Fury at Gunsight Pass (1956) with Neville Brand, Richard Long, Morris Ankrum. (68 min.)

June 19: The Most Beautiful (1944) with Takashi Shimura, Ichiro Sugai. (85 min.)

June 26: Meet Boston Blackie (1941) with Chester Morris, Rochelle Hudson, Richard Lane. (61 min.)