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Senior Opportunities in Washington State

© Jerri Brooker

Well, you've done it. You've lived life's ups and downs and made it to "senior" status. You've experienced a number of decades, some good, some bad, and retired from your adult life-long profession. Perhaps you've been a stay-at-home wife or a househusband. Or you've retired from a prestigious law firm or a blue-collar job. Now you find yourself wondering what you will do with the rest of your life. Well, if you live in Washington State there are lots of opportunities for seniors.

"Like what?" you ask.

Then I'll ask, "What do you enjoy doing?"

It's that simple.

If you need a nudge to figure out what it is you want to do, then you've come to the right place. There are lots of opportunities out there for the taking.

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Art Classes

If you're interested in some art classes and live in the Puget Sound area, Seniors Making Art, http://www.seniorsmakingart.org , a program founded by Dale Chihuly, world-renowned Tacoma glass artist, is available. Chihuly thought seniors needed a place to make art, so he designed a program for seniors that provides free classes and materials to those so inclined. Classes held by professional artists include drawing, watercolor, sculpture, creative writing, Sumi-Ebrush painting, collage, glass mosaic and more.

If you think you don't have artistic talent, Chihuly says, "Making art is not about craftsmanship, it has to do with feelings and memories." What better way to enjoy life, folks, than to put your life experiences into painting?

Instructors teach classes at senior centers, retirement homes, libraries, schools, nursing homes, hospitals, museums, etc. See some art from this program for sale at: http://www.seniorsmakingart.org/art_gall... . You may call the program to find out if there are classes in your area at (206) 433-6900.

Senior Centers

Get involved with your local senior centers if you like to travel with a group, such as this center in Kent: http://www.ci.kent.wa.us/senioractivityc... . Here's a listing of centers throughout the state: http://www.aasa.dshs.wa.gov/professional... - it's a little slow to download so be patient. Find one in your area and give them a call to see when they're open and what they offer. Travel, volunteer activities, classes, lunches; there's a lot to do.

I took the AARP 55-alive Driving Course to get money off on my auto insurance through a senior center; just ask when you call. You have to join AARP to get the savings, but it's only $12.50 a year. To get more information, start here: http://www.aarp.org/membership/aarp/Arti... . This is not just in Washington, but nationwide.