Denton Senior Recreation Magazine by Denton Parks and Recreation

Denton Parks and Recreation

Play Pickleball

THE fastest growing sport you’ve never heard of

Let’s Dance!

Social Dance, Tap Dance, Belly Dance, and More

The Benefits of

Creativity

for Older Adults

ALL-4-ONE

Access 4 Gyms For One Price, Including Gym + Rec Center For Adults Only, Ages 50+

KICK START The New Year Bike, Walk, or Run Denton Trails

at Open House Jan. 11, 2020

THE PERFECT

+ FIT FOR 50 ALH Senior Center 629 Lakey St., (940) 349-8298 Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Thursday, 6-10 p.m.

Denton Senior Center 509 N. Bell Ave., (940) 349-8720 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Gym Membership, includes rec pass

$20, one month | $40, three month | $120, one year

No-cost gym and fitness membership for eligible seniors through participating insurance plans These fitness programs, designed specifically for active older adults, are delivered through a nationwide network of participating insurance plans. Benefits include: u NAT Membership &

water exercise classes

Includes rec pass activities (listed on page 10) and access to strength training equipment and cardio equipment at all four rec centers including Denton Senior Center for ages 50+. Fitness equipment orientations available by appointment.

u Unlimited access to North

A rec pass is required to use the senior centers for nonfee based activities. A standalone pass is $10 per year for Denton residents and $15 per year for nonresidents.

rooms & REC Pass activities u Access to the indoor walking track at Denton Civic Center

Denton Senior Center Open House Saturday, Jan. 11 | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Lakes Rec Center and Denton Senior Center Group Exercise Classes

u Unlimited access to fitness

Verify eligibility online or call your provider.

Celebrate being 50+ and join us for class demos, program booths, and a 10% discount on activities and classes.Â

www.silversneakers.com www.silverandfit.com www.myrenewactive.com

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect opportunity to learn about classes, dances, trips, group exercise, outdoor recreation, SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, and more. See the cover for the demo schedule.

Participants must be Medicare eligible and have a participating supplement insurance plan.

2 www.dentonparks.com

Open House, Seminars, Events, and Much More Join us for free health seminars the third Friday of each month. Preregistration is not required but is appreciated for supplies and refreshments.

Visit us online at www.dentonparks.com for event details and program registration. Check out page 8 for more events including monthly dances, karaoke, and more.

Effective Communication Strategies Improve your ability to communicate with loved ones struggling with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association. Friday, Jan. 17, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Senior Center Open House Saturday, Jan. 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Matter of Balance Learn how to conquer the fear of falling and replace it with confidence. Preregistration is required; ages 60+. Tuesdays and Thursdays Jan. 21-Feb. 13, 10 a.m.-noon

Blue Suede Café Karaoke Tuesday, Feb.18, 1-2 p.m.

Protecting your Loved Ones Learn the wisdom to pre-planning funeral arrangements. Small lunch provided, please register by Jan. 24. Monday, Jan. 27, noon-1 p.m. Senior R.A.D. Learn self-defense strategies and readiness taught by City of Denton Police officers. $10 per person; register in advance. Tuesdays and Thursdays Jan. 28-Feb. 27, 3-4:30 p.m. Understanding Alzheimer's & Dementia Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association. Friday, Feb. 21, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Retirement Planning Doesn’t Stop the Day You Retire Learn financial strategies and how to maximize your income and benefits. Please bring a pen and paper for notes. Friday, March 27, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Valentine's Dinner and Dance Thursday, Feb. 13, 6 p.m. MLK Jr. Rec Center

Senior Scavenger Hunt Wednesday, April 8, 9-10:45 a.m. Mother's Day Waffles Wednesday, May 6, 9-10:30 a.m. Veteran’s Day Program Wednesday, Nov. 11, 1-2 p.m. Ugly Sweater Holiday Tea Friday, Dec. 11, 1-2:30 p.m.

FREE Smart Driver Safety Program Tuesday, Feb. 18, 1-5 p.m. Thursday, June 11, 5-9 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, 1-5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, 1-5 p.m.

Friday Night Dances, page 9

Learn more at www.dentonparks.com or call (940) 349-8720. www.dentonparks.com 3

OUTDOOR RECREATION Led by Experienced Outdoor Educators

BENEFITS OF KAYAKING

FLY FISHING CLINIC

If you love the outdoors, then consider kayaking. The physical benefits include core conditioning, increased aerobic capacity, and weight loss.

Learn while you earn your Texas Parks and Wildlife Basic Fly Fishing Certification from a certified angler from the Dallas Fly Fishers. Saturday, Jan. 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $8 per person

BLACK MUSTANG RANCH

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll match you up with a horse based on your riding skills from beginner to experienced. Saturday, March 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $50 per person

Kayak Adventures for Adults

Open to all levels; paddling experience is not required. The fee includes transportation, instructors & guides, sit on top kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and kayak instruction. Saturday, April 18, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $20 per person 4 www.dentonparks.com

According to the American Council on Exercise, an average person weighing 125lbs can burn up to 300 calories per hour of kayaking and a 200lb person can burn up to 500 calories per hour. In addition to the benefits of weight loss, kayaking can greatly improve your mental health. The Journal of Leisurability found that kayaking leads to increased social skills and sense of self, as well as an overall boost in self-satisfaction. In a nutshell, Kayaking is therapy for the body, mind, and spirit.

PICKLEBALL The fastest growing sport you've never heard of

Pickleball is an indoor or outdoor paddle sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. The game has had a 650 percent increase in numbers over the last six years, according to USA Pickleball Association. The biggest subset of that growth is not in the over-60 crowd, says Justin Maloof, executive director of USAPA, but the younger set.

Beyond being fun, it's racking

up some serious benefits!

Future courts will be built in phases.

Nette Schultz Park Pickleball Court

LET’S PLAY Tuesdays and Thursdays North Lakes Rec Center Noon to 3 p.m. & 8-10 p.m. Denton Senior Center Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon

Beyond being fun, pickleball has proven to rack up benefits whether played casually or hard core. It was originally made popular by Baby Boomers, but the sport has made a generational jump and is now being played by all ages. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association 2018 Participant Report, pickleball currently has 3.1 million players in the US. Regardless of age, health benefits give pickleball a large appeal physically, socially, and mentally. Can Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease A recent study in the International Journal of Research in Exercise Physiology found middle-aged and older adults who played one hour of pickleball three days per week for six weeks improved their blood pressure, cholesterol, and cardiorespiratory fitness levels. Can Cut Your Risk of Depression Exercise in general is a proven mood booster—and pickleball is no exception. A recent study in Leisure Studies found older adults who played in pickleball tournaments had a lower risk of depression. Can Get you Hooked on Exercise A study in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity found people become loyal to the sport because it helps them meet their fitness goals and enhance social connections. It’s a two-for-one workout! www.dentonparks.com 5

Exercise Your Options

Being an Active Adult has Never Been More Fun! Group Exercise plus Gym Membership Benefits Include Group Exercise Classes for Adults 50+ Only g Senior Center Group Ex Membership Fees: 1 month, $25 | 3 months, $65 | Annual, $195 g Includes unlimited access to cardio and strength training equipment at all four rec centers g Includes unlimited access to group exercise classes at Denton Senior Center; listed below g Accepts eligible insurance program memberships; see page 2

Refers to length of class

Explore More Opportunities Consider Other Activities to Fit your Needs Tai Chi, adults only

Women’s Soccer League

Gently Improves Balance, Mobility, and Strength

Most Awesome Latin Dance Workout Ever!

30-minute High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

Spring Registration is Open

Denton Senior Center Tuesday, 4-5 p.m. or Thursday, 4-5 p.m. $30 per month-long class

MLK Jr. Rec Center Mon., Wed., 6 p.m., plus every other Sat. at noon $30 per 10 classes

North Lakes Rec Center Mon/Wed/Fri, 5:30 a.m. or $50 per month

Vela and Mack Park Fields Wednesday evening games $450 per team; 8 v 8 Registration is open

À la Cart

Seasonal League

Tue/Thur, 5 p.m. Sat, 7:15 a.m.

Women’s Over 40 Rec League

Come Dancing Jitterbug, Swing, Waltz, Foxtrot, Swing, Belly Dance and more... SOCIAL DANCE

Wednesday nights $36 per month-long class

Partners are not required

January Basic Waltz, 6:50-7:50 p.m. Basic Foxtrot, 7:55-8:55 p.m. February Int./Adv. Waltz, 6:50-7:50 p.m. Int./Adv. Foxtrot, 7:55-8:55 p.m. March Prog. Double 2-Step, 6:50-7:50 p.m. West Coast Swing, 7:55-8:55 p.m. April Int./Adv. Prog. Double 2-Step, 6:50-7:50 p.m. Int/Adv. West Coast Swing, 7:55-8:55 p.m. May Basic 2-Step, 6:50-7:50 p.m. East Coast Swing, 7:55-8:55 p.m. June Int./Adv. 2-Step, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Int./Adv. East Coast Swing, 7:35-8:35 p.m. July Basic Jitterbug, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Basic 3-Step, 7:35-8:35 p.m. August Int./Adv. Jitterbug, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Int./Adv. 3-Step, 7:35-8:35 p.m. September Basic Cha Cha, 6:50-7:50 p.m. Basic Club 2-Step, 7:55-8:55 p.m. October Int./Adv. Cha Cha, 6:50-7:50 p.m. Int./Adv. Night Club 2-Step, 7:55-8:55 p.m.

TAP DANCE

$30 per month-long class Beginning Tap Dance Fridays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Int./Adv. Tap Dance Fridays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. All-Levels Tap Dance Wednesdays, 5:45-6:45 p.m.

BELLY DANCE

(AKA Middle Eastern Dance)

Join us and learn to shimmy more than your belly! Mondays, 7:15-8:15 p.m. $30 per session

LINE DANCE

$30 per month-long class Beginning Line Dance Tuesdays, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Improver Line Dance Challenge yourself by learning more complex routines through a variety of music and dance genres. Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Partners are not required and leather soled shoes are preferred, excluding tap. Take two sessions of Social Dance classes and get 50% off the second session. www.dentonparks.com 7

DUST OFF YOUR

DREAMS and try something new!

African Djembe Hand Drumming

Come learn to hand drum from seasoned drummers and experience the many benefits including: • Improve posture and joint mobility • Improve motor skills • Relieve stress and decrease anxiety • Increase your circle of friends Some drums are provided, however, students are encouraged to bring their own drums, if available. Please let staff know if your have a drum when registering. You can drum seated or standing. Tuesdays, 3-3:45 p.m.; $10 per monthly session

Guitar and Ukulele Lessons

Small group guitar lessons specifically for seniors are taught by a classically trained, university level instructor. Please register one week in advance for lessons. Must provide your own guitar. Small group lessons with a 4:1 class ratio. $35 per monthly session Beginner Guitar Lessons Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m. or Wednesdays, 1-2 p.m. Continuing Guitar Lessons | Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. Ukulele Lessons | Wednesdays, 2-3 p.m.

“Everyone has the ability to be creative and to make art. We’re told aging diminishes ability, but that’s just not true. We have to undo these myths.”

Let’s Paint!

Learn to paint or simply continue to grow your talent. Tuesdays, 9 a.m. - noon $30 per month

Genealogy Class

Learn how to discover more about your family history in a private setting. $30, five 1-hr sessions

Ceramics & Pottery

Learn new glaze techniques, hand build or work on the pottery wheel, and/or create your own. Fee includes basic supplies, clear glaze, and firing. Mondays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $40 per month

The Benefits of

CREATIVITY for Older Adults By Carleen Brice

Most people agree that art making is good for kids, but being creative is good for adults, too. And, contrary to conventional wisdom, creativity is especially good for older adults, says Tim Carpenter, founder and executive director of EngAGE.

“What artists know is that creativity is a way for your mind to be open to new things,” Carpenter said. “The act of creating something leads to happiness, and getting out there taking classes and such is a form of socialization and opens your world.” But being creative isn’t just good for you mentally, it has physical benefits as well. Carpenter pointed to a study by geriatric psychologist Gene Cohen as evidence. “This study showed that people who become and stay involved in arts courses taught by professional-level artists saw huge improvements in their physical health.” And while the sooner people can start creative pursuits, the greater effect it will have, Carpenter noted it’s never too late to get the benefits of creativity.“ Americans see getting older as this ending point and decline whereas research on the brain shows the opposite. Your brain increases its ability to make new connections,” he said. “Our brain continues to grow as we get older, and certain forms of creativity fire neurons in a way that creates connections in the brain.” So where should baby boomers and WWII-generation folks begin? Carpenter said, “Dust off your dreams.” “Look at the things you always wanted to do but didn’t think you had the time to do because of work and family obligations,” he said. “I know people who go to stand-up comedy classes or learn to sing.” Stand-up comedy and singing in public may sound pretty bold, but don’t worry, Carpenter also suggests going to museums and taking art classes. “Learning about art and making art with your hands is really good for you. Frankly, just try something,” he said.

Blue Suede Café Karaoke Join us for a fun sing-a-long with the group or grab a microphone, choose a song from our list of titles, and take center stage. Tuesday, Feb.18, 1-2 p.m.

Friday Night Dances Bring the Dance Floor to Life!

Every second and fourth Fridays, the Senior Center hosts popular bands playing music ranging from country & western to the classic ‘50s and ‘60s tunes. Refreshments are served during the bands’ intermission.

2020 Friday Night Dances 7-9:30 p.m., $6 per person Jan. 10, Bale Jumpers Jan. 24, Pete-N-Patti Feb. 14, Young at Heart Feb. 28, Danny Romo Band March 13, Bale Jumpers March 27, John White & Texas Borderline www.dentonparks.com 9

GREAT ESCAPES ROAD TRIPS THANKS-GIVING SQUARE IN DALLAS

MUSEUM OF

BIBLICAL ARTS

10 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Voted Dallasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Museum

Perot Museum Monday, Feb. 24 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $28 per person; meets at the Senior Center Dallas Holocaust-Human Rights Museum Tuesday, March 3 | 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $25 per person; meets at MedPark DCTA Station Winstar Tuesday, March 11 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $10 per person; meets at MLK Jr. Rec Center Kimbell Art Museum Tuesday, March 31 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $24 per person; meets at the Senior Center Museum of Biblical Arts Thursday, April 2 | 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $23 per person; meets at the Senior Center Grapevine Shopping Wednesday, April 8 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $20 per person; meets at MLK Jr. Rec Center Turner Falls, OK Wednesday, May 13 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $24 per person; meets at MLK Jr. Rec Center

Open to all seniors, ages 50 and older

Denton African American Museum Wednesday, July 15 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $10 per person; meets at MLK Jr. Rec Center

Thanks-Giving Square in Dallas Wednesday, Aug. 15 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $10 per person; meets at MLK Jr. Rec Center

10 www.dentonparks.com

REC PASS Standalone rec passes: $10 per resident, $15 per nonresident

activities

Denton Senior Center | ALH Senior Center

DROP-IN ACTIVITIES

2020 TOURNAMENTS:

During construction, ALH Senior Center drop-in activities are at MLK Jr. Rec Center. Bingo | Tues. & Thurs.,10:30 a.m. Spades | Tues. & Fri., 1- 4 p.m. Domino Tournaments | Thurs., 6-10 p.m.

Tuesdays; rec pass entry. Registration closes four days before each tournament date.

ALH Senior Center

Denton Senior Center

SPAN Lunch, weekdays at noon Meals are free to eligible individuals ages 60 and older. Free Benefits Counseling Every 3rd Thursday Please visit the front desk to schedule an appt. with a benefits counselor: 1:30, 2, 2:30, 3, 3:30, or 4 p.m. Blood Pressure & Blood Sugar Checks 1st and 3rd Friday, 10 a.m. Denton Senior Center, free Grandfriends, Fridays, 9-10 a.m. Jan. 10, Feb. 7, March 6, April 3 May 1, Sept. 6 Aletha’s Craft Store Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Denton Senior Center

League and Free Play

Chair Volleyball League Register now until March 1. League: March 19 through April 23 Thursdays, 1-3:30 p.m.; $19 per person Chair Volleyball Free Play February 3-April 20; Mondays, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Bean Bag Baseball League June 4-18; Thursdays, 1-2 p.m.; $5 per person www.dentonparks.com 11

City of Denton Parks and Recreation City Hall East Attention: Marketing 601 E. Hickory Street, Suite B Denton, TX 76205

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID DENTON, TEXAS PERMIT NO. 453

2020 OPEN HOUSE Demo Schedule 10 a.m. Tap Dance 10:15 a.m. Drum Jam 10:30 a.m. Zumba Gold 10:45 a.m. Line Dance 11 a.m. Social Dance 11:15 a.m. Guitar/Ukulele 11:30 a.m. Tai Chi 11:45 a.m. Belly Dancing Noon Pickleball 12:15 p.m. Chair Volleyball

Denton Senior Center Open House Saturday, Jan. 11 | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Celebrate being 50+ and join us for class demos, program booths, and a 10% discount on activities and classes.Â