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 optional

While masks are not required, please respect those who chose to wear one.

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 Special Events and Workshops

Fall Prevention Workshop

Wednesday, September 27, 1-2:30pm

We are excited to welcome back local physical therapist Julia Badding from Sea Pines Physical Therapy for this popular hands-on workshop. Julia will offer live demonstrations, tips, handouts and a Q&A presentation about preventing falls and how to fall to reduce injury. Free for members/non-members.

Piano Bar

Thursday,  October 5th, 7 pm

 Entrance fee: $10

Join Larry Knapp and his guest musicians at the Senior Center of West Seattle as they host an evening of music and merriment featuring favorites from the Great American Songbook and the early jazz era. Singers and musicians of all ages are welcome. Feather boas, fancy hats, or any vintage swank will help set the mood and add to the fun! Wine, beer, specialty cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase. Limited seating!

Register

Financial Beginnings Workshop

Safe Banking for Seniors: Identifying and Avoiding Scams

Wednesday, October 11, 1-2:30pm

Free for members/non-members

Join us a practical and insightful workshop put on by Financial Beginnings, a nonprofit that teaches people how to play an active role in their financial well-being. Our speaker will be Duncan Taylor, Financial Beginnings volunteer and SVP/ Chief Operating Officer for the Washington Bankers Association.

Scammers target older customers because of the size of their assets, their tendency to be more trusting, the likelihood of their being stressed by family, medical and financial problems, their concern about having enough money and their embarrassment about admitting they’ve been duped. This workshop will present types of scams, why they work, warning signs and how to build scam defenses.

History Hour Series

October: Indigenous Heritage Month

Duwamish River Community Coalition

Friday, October 13, 1-2 pm

$10 members and non-members

The Duwamish River Community Coalition will present on the ecological restoration, as well as the historical reckoning, that they have worked to bring to one of the most overindustrialized areas in the country. Help us mark Indigenous Heritage Month with this insightful presentation.

GHOSTOLOGY 101 101

Wednesday, October 25, 1-2:30pm

Do you believe in Ghosts? Celebrate this spooky season with June Nixon from Advanced Ghost Hunters of Seattle Tacoma (A.G.H.O.S.T.), the Northwest’s oldest operating paranormal team. She’ll take you through some basic ghost hunting procedures, including equipment and techniques, as well as her favorite investigations and haunted travel stories from around the world. If you aren’t a believer now, maybe you will be. Boo! Free for members/non-members.

Soups With Chef Hayla

Thursday, October 26, 3:30-4:30pm

Supplies fee: $10 members, $15 non- members

Have you ever wanted to know the secrets behind the delicious soups at Margie’s Café? We invite you to join Chef Hayla in this class as she creates her amazing soups from scratch. This month she’ll be cooking Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup. At the end of class, you will get to enjoy a bowl of soup with a side of freshly-baked beer bread. Space is limited to 12 students. Advance RSVP and masks requested.

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 & Wellness 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 leads this multi-level variety workout class designed 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.

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!

Meditation Class

Tuesdays, 9-10am

This class will explore a variety of ways to make friends with our minds. Each week will include on-the-spot practice, a review of what has been covered, as well as discussion of the results. The goal is to develop and deepen the skills needed to be more present and relaxed.

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. Led by a certified Cancer Exercise Trainer. Contact the front desk at 206-932-4044, Ext 1, to see if you qualify.

Tai Chi

Level 1 Beginners: Thursdays, 10-10:30am
Level 2 Advanced: Thursdays, 10:30-11:30am (except Oct. 26)

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

Contact front desk at 206-932-4044, Ext 1 for availability

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

Contact front desk at 206-932-4044, Ext 1 for availability

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

Enjoy the feeling of “relaxation and well-being” after a 20-minute seated session of Healing Touch. Patty Bodzioch, Health 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 for lessons, short tutorials and chess for all levels of expertise. For info: Conwell Dickey: conwell@conwelld.net.

Coffee with Vets

Tuesday October 10, 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 Café are open! Please see our Food and Dining page for more details.

Conversation & Friendship Corner

Thursdays, 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. Comprised of two separate groups alternating weekly. Drop-ins welcome and will be assigned a group by Joe for future participation.

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 October 5, 19, 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

September Birthday Luncheon

October Birthday Luncheon

Older Westside Lesbian Group (Owls)

Thursday, October 5

Lunch at Margie’s Café and trip to Burke Museum

We welcome everyone to join us for OWLS where we always do something fun! For info: 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.

​English as a Second Language (ESL) Class

Students from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Salvador and Peru are paired with volunteers who give one-to-one English lessons to practice their pronunciation as well as their comprehension skills. The group has a lot of fun getting to know each other and making new friends. For info: Jeri Milici:  jerie.milici@gmail.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 October 13, 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

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

Mondays, October 2, 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

Level 1 Beginners: Mondays, 11am-12pm

Level 2 Advanced: Mondays, 12-1pm

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. Level 1 focuses on simple beginner dances good for those who are starting or continuing line dancing. In Level 2 the dances will be a little more complicated. All students are welcome in either class.

Journaling For Mindfulness

Wednesdays, September 27; October 11, 25, 11 am – 12:30 pm

Certified teacher Kristine Kero explores the daily practice of mindful journaling which can 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 October 2, 16, 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.

Casual Spanish Conversation Class

Thursdays, 10-11 am

Our Spanish instructors welcome 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!

Reader’s Theatre

Wednesdays, September 6 – October 25, 3-5pm

Fee: $25
Deadline to sign up: Sept. 5

Ever think about acting? Join us in a fun style of theatre in which you read from the script while using vocal expressions and interactions to add drama onstage. Included are live performances open to the community October 24 and 25 at the Senior Center. Please note: Due to rehearsals, please plan on attending every class session. . Deadline to sign up: Sept. 5. Limited space. Contact: Ginny Moore, director: ginnytm@gmail.com.

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 October 4, 18, 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-4:30 pm

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

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.

Tech Support

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 1-2:00pm 

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

Wednesday October 11, 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 October 6, 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 October 5, 19, 3:30-5pm

Heather De Vrieze, Attorney

Tuesdays, September 26, October 31, 2:30-4 pm

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 Presentations

With Patrice Lewis

Thursday October 5, 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.

With Ann-Marie Murray

Mondays, October 23, November 27, December 4, 3-5pm
Wednesdays, November 1, 15, 3-5pm

If you are turning 65 and intend to sign up for Medicare or if you are thinking about changing your plan or adding coverage, get all your questions answered during a presentation with long-time supporter Ann-Marie Murray.

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.

September 25: Just for You (1952) (104 min.)

October 2: Midnight Alibi (1934) (58 min.)

October 9: Here Come the Waves (1944) (99 min.) Oct. 16: Charlie Chan at the Circus (1936) (72 min.) Oct. 23: Alias Boston Blackie (1942) (67 min.)

October 30: The Secret Heart (1946) (97 min.)