2021 Denton Senior Recreation Magazine

DENTON SENIOR

Parks &Rec City of Denton

EXPLORE Tours, Guides, Maps, & Apps

How We

PREPARED For A Safe Return

This past year, we focused on changes to the physical spaces, building systems, and facility operations to increase our versatility and adapt to a new normal.

We've re-opened Denton Senior Center and plan to re-open the American Legion Hall Senior Center once renovations are complete. It's as important to us as it is to you that we safeguard your health, safety, and welfare. Our goal is to earn your trust as we reconnect with a sense of confidence, knowing that we are serious about your welfare and comfort.

Essential to adapting to a safe return includes changes to the lobby and other shared spaces.

We have increased the physical distance between walkways, tables, and lounge furniture.

Adequate circulation space will create safety buffers so you can enjoy fellowship with friends while maintaining a safe social distance.

Our commitment to public health also centers on cleanliness and the need to reduce touchpoints and maximize touchless technology. You can expect to see staff routinely cleaning to keep the indoor environment fresh. We've installed additional hand sanitizing stations and stations with disinfectant cleaning wipes for guests also to use as needed.

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Protection Peace of Mind NEW FACILITY UPGRADES

City departments came together to make intentional and meticulous efforts to upgrade facilities and apply new protocols to make our buildings safer.

We’ve been busy. We want to be open, and the volume of upgrades we’ve made is a testament to how much we care about the community and their need for us to be open. - Megan Thomas, Denton Senior Center Supervisor Some of the most significant work has been upgrading the indoor air quality system and replacing high-touch communal items with touch-free solutions, as seen in the list below:

NEW GPS Ionization Air Purification System; NEW plexiglass dividers in customer service areas; NEW roof, new fans in the multipurpose room, and larger lockers; NEW facility reconfiguration and social distancing markers; NEW lobby antimicrobial chairs suitable for sanitizing agents; NEW touchless hand sanitizer stations and disinfectant wipe stations; NEW automatic flush toilets and paper towel dispensers; NEW touchless water fountain and water bottle filler station.

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NEW ALH Senior Center renovations and upgrades are near completion, 2021

Senior Center Facilities ALH Senior Center, Ages 50+

629 Lakey St., (940) 349-8298 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; Thursday evenings 6-9 p.m.

Denton Senior Center, Ages 50+

FITNESS

IS TIMELESS

Gym Membership plus complimentary Rec Pass

No-Cost Memberships for Eligible Adults Through Participating Insurance Plans

A gym membership includes rec pass activities and access to strength training and cardio equipment at rec centers, including the two senior centers. Equipment orientations are available by appointment.

These no-cost fitness membership programs, designed for active older adults, are delivered through a nationwide network of participating insurance plans. Benefits include:

509 N. Bell Ave., (940) 349-8720 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

1 month, $20 | 3 months, $40 | annual, $120

Group Exercise Membership plus complimentary Gym Membership and Rec Pass 1 month, $30 | 3 months, $80 | annual, $299

A group exercise membership includes unlimited access to group-ex classes at all rec centers, including North Lakes and the senior center. Insurance program memberships include group-ex classes.

Rec Pass (standalone annual pass)

$10, Denton resident | $15 non-resident A rec pass is required to use the senior centers for non-fee based activities and leisure game tables, i.e. shuffleboard.

NAT Membership and water exercise classes.

Unlimited access to Group Exercise Classes.

Unlimited access to fitness rooms and REC Pass activities.

Access to the indoor walking track at Denton Civic Center.

Verify eligibility online or call your provider.

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

Scholarships Available

We offer program and/or membership enrollment assistance to eligible Denton residents through our partnership with the Denton Parks Foundation.

Eligibility in the scholarship program gives low to moderate income residents as much as 50% off an enrollment not to exceed $150 per year. Residents can enroll by providing documentation of a current enrollment in another subsidized program. Scholarship funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you're interested in applying, please call (940) 349-8720.

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

Explore Denton Trails

Critical Links Between Outdoor Recreation & Mental and Physical Wellness Trails are critical to our community’s landscape and serve as a connection between people, public health and pedestrian/cyclists mobility. Scientific research and health professionals alike agree that hitting the trails is advantageous for all aspects of fitness and mental wellness.

EXPLORE

Visit www.dentonparks.com for an Esri StoryMap, AllTrails App, PDF trail links, and more.

Visit AllTrails.com to access user-curated maps, detailed reviews, photos, and more.

"It is well known that exercise is good for mental and physical health, but a recent study showed that exercising outdoors reduced anxiety more than exercising indoors. So, if people are feeling anxious and caged up indoors, then it is good to know that there are free, accessible options for getting outside and reducing stress." Dr. Dennis Johnston, a Clinical Neuropsychologist The benefits of outdoor activities, such as walking, hiking, and biking have are well-documented and it comes as no surprise that trails are the #1 requested recreation resource for passive, moderate, and intense recreation/exercise.

Quakertown Park Trail of the Trees

Trail of the Trees in Quakertown Park has several trail access points, including the Denton Senior Center, Denton Civic Center, and Emily Fowler Library parking lots.

Live Oak Trail: .37 mi Pecan Trail: .5 mi Cedar Trail: .83 mi

In-park signs are posted throughout the park.

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NEW

We've Grouped the Groups!

All-in-One Group Exercise Membership We Look Forward to Seeing You in Class

We love getting to know our members and we welcome the opportunity for you to get to know us. We serve with a high level of expertise and we teach with a diverse range of health and fitness training, degrees, and certifications.

MEET GRACE CHALON

NEW ALL-IN-ONE

Grace has been teaching group exercise for 35+years and has the following specialty certifications: • ACE Group Fitness Instructor • Real Ryder Cycling • Schwinn Cycling • Water Aerobics • SilverSneakers • Yoga, Pi-Yo, Pilates

Based on feedback, we've bundled the exercise groups to make ONE group fitness membership that gives seniors UNLIMITED access to all the group exercise classes at any rec center and senior center.

Plus, access to all rec center fitness equipment and rec pass activities.

MEET LAURA

The rec centers included are Denia Rec Center, MLK Jr. Rec Center, North Lakes Rec Center, and Denton Senior Center for adults ages 50+.

Laura Kessler is a licensed Zumba instructor and is certified to teach various formats of including Zumba Gold, and Zumba Toning. She's been teaching since 2012.

MEET HEATHER Heather Rippetoe has a B.S. in Exercise and Sport Science and is an AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor.

She loves teaching Zumba, Zumba Gold, Les Mills BODYPUMP, and SilverSneakers group exercise classes.

MEET ANDI FITZGERALD Andi is a Registered Yoga Instructor and is certified in chair and gentle yoga. She has a B.S. in Human Development with a focus in Gerontology. She has been teaching at the senior center for three years and was nominated as a Best of Denton County Yoga Instructor in 2020.

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The no-cost memberships for eligible adults through participating insurance plans can be applied. Scholarships can also be applied based on eligibility and availability.

Please see page 4 for details.

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Les Mills BODYPUMP™ North Lakes Rec Center 8:30-9:30am

Les Mills CORE™ North Lakes Rec Center 8:30-9:15am

Les Mills BODYPUMP™ North Lakes Rec Center 8:30-9:30am

Les Mills CORE™ North Lakes Rec Center 8:30-9:15am

Les Mills BODYPUMP™ North Lakes Rec Center 8:30-9:30am

Les Mills BODYPUMP™ North Lakes Rec Center 8-9am

Classically FIT SilverSneakers® Denton Senior Center 9-10am

Classically FIT SilverSneakers® North Lakes Rec Center 10-11am

Zumba Gold® Denton Senior Center 9-10am

Classically FIT SilverSneakers® Denton Senior Center 9-10am

Zumba Gold® Denton Senior Center 9-10am

Zumba® MLK Jr. Rec Center 8:15-9:15am

Chair Yoga North Lakes Rec Center 10-10:45am

Les Mills BODYPUMP™ North Lakes Rec Center 5:30-6:30pm

Zumba Gold® Denia Rec Center 10-11am

Classically FIT SilverSneakers® North Lakes Rec Center 10-11am

Les Mills BODYFLOW™ North Lakes Rec Center 9:45-10:45am

Les Mills BODYATTACK™ North Lakes Rec Center 9:15-10:15am

Chair Yoga Denton Senior Center 1:30-2:15pm

Les Mills BODYATTACK™ North Lakes Rec Center 6:45-7:45pm

Zumba® North Lakes Rec Center 5:30-6:30pm

Les Mills BODYPUMP™ North Lakes Rec Center 5:30-6:30pm

Zumba® MLK Jr. Rec Center 6-7pm

Les Mills BODYFLOW™ North Lakes Rec Center 6:45-7:45pm

BODYCOMBAT™ North Lakes Rec Center 5:30-6:30pm Zumba® MLK Jr. Rec Center 6-7pm

Class Descriptions

&Recreation Centers

Senior Center

Classically FIT | 60-minute class led by a certified SilverSneakers® Instructor.

The class is designed to help seniors improve bone density, muscular strength, cardio fitness, joint mobility, and flexibility using chairs, yoga balls, and dumb-bells.

Chair Yoga | 45-minute seated/standing yoga class designed to increase flexibility and balance, and improve range of movement. Close-toed shoes required.

Zumba Gold® | 60-minute modified low-impact class for active older adults who are looking for a workout that recreates the original Zumba Latin moves at a lower-intensity.

The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that people who took group exercise classes reported less stress and more physical, emotional and mental health benefits than those who exercised alone or did not hit the gym at all, suggesting that a social atmosphere may compound the already numerous benefits of physical activity.

Les Mills BODYATTACK™ | A high-energy interval-training cardio workout. Burn up to 550 calories while toning and shaping your entire body. Restore your fitness with high, medium, and lowimpact athletic aerobic exercise and body weight resistance.

Les Mills BODYCOMBAT™ | A high-energy cardio workout that draws from Karate, boxing, Taekwondo, Tai Chi, and Muay Thai.

Burn 500 to 700 calories and clock 5,000+ steps.

Les Mills BODYFLOW™ | A Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates workout that builds flexibility, strength, and leaves you feeling centered, calm, and happy.

Please bring a yoga mat, towel, and water.

Les Mills BODYPUMP™ | A barbell workout that will get you toned and fit-fast! Build strength using a weighted barbell and free weights.

Les Mills CORE™ | A training class that focuses on the torso and sling muscles that connect your upper and lower body. It's ideal for tightening your abs and butt, and improving functional strength.

Zumba®| Zumba takes the "work" out of workout, by mixing low and high intensity moves for a calorie-burning dance fitness party.

Boost your energy and feel a serious dose of awesome each class.

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Drum Jam: African Djembe Drumming

Wednesdays, 1:30-2:15 p.m. $10 per 4 week session Grow your circle of friends and learn to drum from seasoned hand drummers while you simultaneously reduce your stress and anxiety levels, improve joint mobility and motor skills, and alleviate feelings of isolation.

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Ceramics

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Weekly Watercolor Painting Workshops

Mondays, 11:30 a.m. $20 per 4 week session Join us for an hour each week in the art studio for a beginner to intermediate landscape workshop.

An experienced art teacher will assist all levels and help each student complete six paintings. Participants bring their own supplies from a list provided in advance.

Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $35 per 4 week session Enjoy doing ceramics while in the company of others. All potter levels are welcome to create ceramics with green-ware or clay brought from home.

The class includes a day of instruction (Thursdays) and day to be creative (Tuesdays); basic supplies and molds, pottery wheel, firings are included.

Artists are welcome to bring additional supplies as needed.

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Cultivate Your Volunteer Skills

Visit our welcome desks for senior center and program volunteer opportunities.

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Socialize with a Sense of Purpose

Volunteer Workday Friday, July 30, Friday, Aug. 27 Clear Creek, 8-10 a.m.

Staff from Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center will lead tasks depending on the needs of the garden, trails, and overall property. We will provide clean tools and work gloves not to be shared during the workday.

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UNITE. GROW. PLAY 6

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Tai Chi

Mondays, 10:30 a.m.

Tai chi is often described as "meditation in motion," but it might well be called "medication in motion."

There is growing evidence

by Harvard Medical School that this mind-body practice, which originated in China as a martial art, has value in treating or preventing many health problems.

Pickleball

North Lakes Rec Center Tuesdays and Thursdays Noon-3 p.m.

Bring your own chair and paddle(s) for open play at North Lakes Rec Center.

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GO FORE IT!

North Lakes Driving Range 2009 W Windsor Dr. Senior Discount for Golf Ball Buckets $10 for large (90 balls) $5 for small (35 balls) Range Card for Dispenser Load $25-$150 on card; senior discount will be reflected on the card.

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Clubhouse Hours Monday-Sunday 8-11 a.m. and 5-8 p.m.

Dispenser Hours M-Tu-Th-Fr 8-10:30 a.m. and noon-7:30 p.m.

Wed 8-10:30 a.m., 4:45-7:30pm Sat-Sun 8-10:30 a.m. noon-7:30 p.m.

Trail Blazing

Trails are critical to our community’s landscape and serve as a connection between people, public health and mobility.

Explore new and existing trails at www.dentonparks.com.

A Salute to Our Veteran's Day Heros

Wednesday, Nov. 11 Join us in honoring veterans from all branches of the military during this very special event that will include fellowship, refreshments, and music

by Denton's very own Young at Heart band.

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Tai Chi

The Power to Prevent a Fall

How Fall Prevention a Relates to Tai Chi

Every second of every day, a U.S. adult (age 65+) suffers a fall, making it the leading cause of injury and injury death in this age group. Falling and the fear of falling leads to functional decline, which in turn leads to selfimposed activity restrictions. Understanding fall prevention and how it relates to Tai Chi could add value to your routine and double as a way to be physically active while social distancing.

TAI CHI

Monday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. $30 per six-week session Join anytime.

Evidence-Based Benefits

Balancing on one leg is a single point on a continuum with stability on one end and mobility on the other end. Every step taken requires the ability to stand on one leg for a very brief moment. When the ability to stabilize degrades, the other end of the continuum, mobility, also degrades. Poor stabilization leads to changes in gait that further impairs mobility. If you want to improve the ability not to lose your balance resulting in a fall, you have to, in essence, “practice falling.” The building blocks of fall prevention are knee, hip, ankle flexion, and strong spine and abdominal muscles.

Being aware of your space and anticipating, reacting to, and compensating to change to that space are at the heart of stability and mobility training.

Thus, establishing a deep awareness of one’s Base of Support and training the body to prepare-react to changes in your Center of Gravity is critical.

“Proprioception” is the ability of the body to sense where it is in space. Balance training must address all three proprioception triggers: visual, inner ear, and nerves/muscles.

Strengthening muscles specific to preventing falls with a profound inner focus and an emphasis on timing and appropriate speed may seem overwhelming and complex. Tai Chi eases that complexity by using exercises that are performed in a slow, controlled manner, with a deep inner awareness of using the body holistically, applying controlled breathing as the “tempo.” It demands continuous movement as it requires a constant shifting of weight, which improves both stability and mobility and triggers mindfulness of one’s base of support and changing center of gravity.

Also, Tai Chi incorporates both asymmetrical and diagonal arm-leg movements and promotes arm swing and rotation at the waist, all critical components of gait function. This low-impact exercise puts minimal stress on joints, making it a low-risk, appropriate activity for seniors.

Tai Chi is Therapeutic and Sustainable

Tai Chi is functional, therapeutic, and sustainable. Its cognitive benefits include significant focus and spatial-temporal orientation. Memory, both in terms of the sequencing of movements and specific execution of the forms, is developed. Executive functioning in addition to full body movements and postural demands blend both physical and mental development. Other benefits include calmness, better reach, functional mobility, enhanced mental ability and socialization.

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Every second of every day, an older adult (age 65+) suffers a fall in the U.S.—making falls the leading cause of injury and injury death in this age group.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

LIFE IS BETTER WHEN WE

Dancing is an Effective Coping Mechanism

University of Derby neuroscience researchers found that dance provides a natural way of building social relationships- deeming it beneficial for those living alone and experiencing a lack of social interaction. Dance can be used as a stress-coping intervention and can help to counter depression and loneliness while reducing stigma and external critical views on the body. Self-awareness of movements, sensations, and emotions are crucial to health and wellbeing. Suppression of self-awareness can result in depression in which dancing can help restore.

Dancing Improves Strength and Balance

According to a study in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, dancing can improve balance in aging adults. Dancing requires a lot of fast movement, and good posture, so frequent dancing will help you stabilize and gain better control of your body.

Dancing Reduces Anxiety

According to some psychologists, dancing has the potential to act as an effective treatment for anxiety. Dance can be both an outlet for creativity and a method of accessing a peaceful state of mind.

Dancing Defends Against Dementia

Compared to other activities like crosswords, reading, and cycling, dancing appears to offer the best chance of helping stave off dementia. According to a 21-year study led by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, aging adults who danced regularly had a 76 percent reduced risk for developing dementia. Experts theorize that dancing is beneficial for our brains because it combines cardiovascular exercise with split-second decisionmaking that taxes our neural network, forcing it to create new pathways.

LINE DANCE | Join anytime.

Every Wednesday, 1-2 p.m. $30 per four-week session A dance partner is not required.

It's very easy to social distance and learn most of these dances because each person can dance independently.

Suzanne Ashmore, Line Dance Instructor

Monthly Social Dance Lessons

We'll shuffle back into a full schedule as we increase our capacity and hours of operation.

We look forward to resuming our beginner, intermediate, and advanced dance lessons, including but not limited: Waltz, Foxtrot, Jitterbug, Swing Night Club Two-Step, Three-Step Cha Cha, Latin Dance, Ballroom Tap Dance, & Middle Eastern Dance 11

More fun than you can possibly stand -while seated!

Chair Volleyball League

Register to be placed on a team which includes five weeks of games that lead up to an exciting single elimination tournament.

Have you ever wanted to join a league or tournament but didn’t know how to play?

The game is played with six players on each side of the court with a beach ball, chairs, and five foot high net. The game is played like regular volleyball, only seated.

Fall Chair Volleyball League Register by Sept. 30; $20 per person Fee includes team jersey.

Oct. 14 – Nov. 18 Every Thursday, 1-3:30 p.m.

Sign up to Learn a League Join Jane and learn from the BEST! Those who know how to play are encouraged to participate and help those who are new to the game or activity. Each session is four-weeks and ends with a tournament to apply what you've learned.

Cornhole League (all ages) Come out and throw some bags!

The league includes eight weekly games and a double elimination tournament at the end of the season. The games are played at the Civic Center on Thursday evenings, beginning at 6:45 p.m.

A maximum of 4 players are allowed per roster.

Fall Cornhole League Thursday evenings, Sept. 16-Oct. 28 $75 per team; register by Sept. 3.

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Learn a League

Chair volleyball is great for upper body mobility and joint flexibility.

It improves cardio-fitness, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination.

Dominoes Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon July 2-16, tournament July 23 Hand and Foot Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon October 8-22, tournament Oct. 29 Pinochle Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon Nov. 5-19, tournament Dec. 3

Fellowship, and Fun Research shows that older adults who participate in senior center programs can learn to manage and delay the onset of chronic disease and experience measurable improvements in their mental, physical, social, spiritual, emotional, and economic well-being.

Our community centers serve as locations to make new friends or foster existing ones and host opportunities to participate in organized activities such as bingo and cards and free play activities like ping-pong and billiards shuffleboard, and more.

Non-fee drop-in activities and free-play services and activities are open to residents and nonresidents with a rec pass. At present, drop-in activities are located at Denton Senior Center, unless otherwise noted. Similar activities will resume at ALH Senior Center after it reopens.

Tournaments

Friendship,

Tournament Time Hosted every 3rd Friday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon.

Rec Pass entry; no additional fees

Outdoor Tournaments Croquet Tournament Friday, June 18 Ring Toss Tournament Friday, Sept. 17 Putt Putt Golf Tournament Friday, Oct.15

Indoor Tournaments Ping Pong Tournament Friday, July 16 Mexican Train Tournament Friday, Aug. 20 Darts Tournament Friday, Nov. 19

Stretch -N- Tone | Mondays & Fridays, 10-11 a.m.

Denia Rec Center Young at Heart Rehearsals | Every Tuesday, 8:30 a.m.

Needlework | Every Tuesday, 9-10 a.m.

Social Crafting (Bring your own project) Every Wednesday, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Dominoes | Every Thursday, 2-5 p.m.

MLK Jr. Rec Center Free Play Chair Volleyball Every Monday, 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Summertime beginning June 7 Ping-Pong | Every Friday, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Friday with Friends | Every Friday, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Cards | Every 2nd & 4th Friday, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Bingo | Every 1st & 3rd Friday, 1-2 p.m.

Texercise | Every Tuesday & Thursday, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

A 12-week healthy lifestyle class by Texas Health and Human Services that features balance, strength, endurance, & flexibility exercises as well as forming social support relationships. Free; preregistration is required.

Archery

50 +

USA Archery and National Archery in Schools Program

A bow’s draw weight is tailored to each archer, so you can shoot at your own comfort level.

Learn or sharpen your micro and macro abilities, as well as listening and observation skills on an international-style legal outdoor range with plenty of target practice. $20 per class.

Saturday, Aug. 7 10 a.m. - Noon 13

Psychological What is

Flexibility?

"Psychological flexibility" is the ability to recognize and adapt to change, and shift behavior or perspective when things aren't going well while having the ability to maintain a sense of mental balance. Simply put, it's the difference between knowing and doing and the difference between living in the moment or remaining stuck in the mud.

For example, many of us felt anxiety at the height of COVID-19 or sadness related to changes in our routine as a result of the pandemic. Being flexible means coping with that uncertainty and accepting changes while not suppressing other emotions.

Conversely, being inflexible would manifest in suppressing emotions resulting in social isolation due to anxiety or sadness. The difference is in the willingness to adapt and/or ask for help instead of acting like you’re adapting and hiding the pain.

STRATEGIES TO STRENGTHEN YOUR

PSYCHOLOGICAL FLEXIBILITY

RESTORE RECONNECT RECHARGE

Emily Kroska, Clinical Psychologist from the University of Iowa, published a study in the Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science in which they found that people who took stock of their emotions -- be the sadness, anxiety, fear, loneliness, and the like -- and then addressed those emotions with mindful action--such as calling a friend or family member -- reported lower stress levels than those who steered away from identifying with their emotions or did not gauge the potential effects of their behavior. "The goal is to try and help people become more resilient by remaining in touch with their emotions and finding creative ways to maintain or build upon relationships with people or activities that are important to them," said Kroska, Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences.

Psychological flexibility is a skill and is proven to be a primary determinant of mental health and behavioral effectiveness to ease our feelings of anxiety and isolation.

According to the American Psychological Association, the sooner we can start managing our stress and anxiety the less likely we are to suffer long-term.

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RESTORE YOUR MIND | Cultivate Mindfulness When faced with stress, we have a tendency to replay the same thoughts repeatedly in our minds. Researchers refer to this as 'rumination', and it's harmful because without realizing it, we let adverse events and memories from our past trigger anxiety and depressive feelings in our present. As a result, we increase our risk of depression and weaken our psychological flexibility.

Understanding and knowing stress doesn't equate to managing it and like all other skills, it requires practice. By practicing cognitive-behavioral exercises, mindfulness, and meditation, we can learn to intercept and tame negative rumination cycles. For example, cultivating mindfulness is a restorative way to clear your mind to immerse yourself in an activity that can give you a break from compounding stressors. Having the ability to regain control of your thoughts, response, and actions in unexpected circumstances will strengthen your resilience and power of positive outcomes.

Connect with scientists and naturalists who can help you learn more about nature on your next nature walk.

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One of the best ways to regain control is to restore mindfulness which is to immerse yourself in an activity that helps you practice living in the moment. Research indicates that engaging your senses outdoors, like trail walking, is especially beneficial because it boosts the brain's ability to think about nature and engages the senses. Immersing yourself by consciously engaging your senses will leave you feeling calm and happy, whether you're hiking the Grand Canyon or walking through your local park.

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RE-CONNECT | Register for a Program Combining social engagement with programs or activities can protect your brain from the negative effects of social isolation and make you more resilient to change.

Social connections are essential to our well-being, and rebounding from a year of lockdown has revealed much about how we've changed. Take your time and ease into it with the motivation that reconnecting in person will look different, yet feel better. To ease into it, consider programs of interest that also include opportunities to socially engage. Doing so can help minimize the recirculation of negative thoughts that have a tendency to bring us down when we're alone.

Reconnecting in a group activity like Tai Chi, pickleball, or chair volleyball can help rekindle social skills and restore mindfulness.

Another example is Texercise, an award-winning health and wellness program that encourages individuals to adopt healthy lifestyle habits while engaging in social exercise to help build much needed social and community support.

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RE-CHARGE | Stimulate Your Brain New experiences such as taking an art class or online training course stimulate brain growth and helps to prevent cognitive decline and memory problems.

Re-Connect & Re-Charge with Denton Parks!

Time to Mentally & Socially Re-Charge Bring a craft from home, let loose, and share everything from the last book you read to your favorite Netflix shows.

SOCIAL CRAFTING | Denton Senior Center Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Rec pass activity; no additional fees.

TEXERCISE | 12-week exercise program Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Free; preregistration is required.

INDOOR WALKING | Denton Civic Center Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Rec pass activity; no additional fees Inside track, 14.5 laps = one mile DENTON TRAILS| Free and Open to ALL To access Denton Trails, visit us online at www.dentonparks.com.

Learning new skills can also improve our thinking ability and help distract from the downward spiral of rumination. Psychologically, taking time to reflect on something learned will also help develop feelings of competence and self-efficacy because it connect us to an underlying purpose of growth and development. Whether at home or at the senior center, the benefits are worthy and the resources available can enable congnitive strength and resilience in the face of stress.

Re-Charge with Nature Trackers Whether you stay in your backyard, or travel in search of wild plants and animals, this is a great way to look and learn. Texas Nature Track projects are curated by experts, and the data is used to prioritize our research and conservation efforts throughout the state. Learn more at www.tpwd.texas.gov.

WOOD SHOP | Denton Senior Center Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. $6 annual fee

Plug into Senior Planet Learn new technology from experts and peers of the same age in this free weekly discussion group that meets every Thursday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on Zoom.

Learn more at www.seniorplanet.org.

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Don't simply retire from something; have something to retire to.

Harry Emerson Fosdick

We Serve All Retired or Not, We Serve You

MEET THE FACES Behind The Names megan

Megan Thomas serves as the supervisor of Denton Senior Center and has been with the City of Denton for 14 years. Raised in the military, she wasn't exposed to traditional parks and recreation programs but her passion for fitness and wellness bridged the gap.

Unsurprisingly, as we grow older so does the need to shift our focus and tailor programs to a wider range of varying interests, abilities, and needs.

She loves parks and recreation because it allows her to connect her knowledge and skills with her passion to serve others in a fun, active, and vibrant atmosphere.

The reality is that many older adults are still actively engaged in the workforce, many are looking to pursue passions, while others are balancing roles as caregivers for older and younger generations.

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The programs we create are thoughtfully and intentionally planned for various age groups to maximize opportunities for participation. We apply the input received through community surveys to do our best to accommodate commonalities and requested programs and services.

Fortunately, more aging adults are embracing the older years with a sense of adventure and determination. Knowing this, we're constantly working to create opportunities that foster healthy and active living and can contribute to a higher quality of life.

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AT A GLANCE...

Megan.Thomas@ cityofdenton.com

cheylon

B.S. in Health and Fitness Management Certified Parks and Recreation Executive Certified Personal Trainer, ACSM Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer, ACSM Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer, ACSM Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist

Cheylon serves as supervisor of the MLK Jr. Rec Center and American Legion Hall Senior Center.

Prior to working in recreation, she devoted over 20 years of services to students, faculty, and staff at UNT, her alma matter. It was at UNT, that she fell in love with the Denton community and decided to make Denton her home.

Growing up with her grandparents gave her a desire to work with seniors and serve her community. Her grandmother taught her that “busy hands make a difference” and that's seen in her ability to bridge the rec center and the senior center with the community at large.

Cheylon.Brown@ cityofdenton.com

AT A GLANCE...

• • • •

Manager, ALH Senior Center Master’s Degree in Higher Education, UNT Past Director, Multicultural Center, UNT Active in community organizations

WE MISS Seeing Your Faces!

Carin

Carin wholeheartedly believes she was born in the wrong generation and easily connects with older adults using her life experiences to relate. Carin is the oldest daughter in a single-parent home and was first to graduate college. She ran her own business after finding that her passion for people and wellness fuels her desire to serve the community. With a broad base of knowledge, and a deep interest in history, food, and the arts, Carin loves to help and teach with a twist of fun and an adventurous spirit and combines those interests to develop a diverse list of programs.

AT A GLANCE...

Carin.Zeman@ cityofdenton.com

Jane

Jane.Riddle@ cityofdenton.com

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Recreation Coordinator B.A., English & Technical Writing Certificate Certified Parks and Recreation Professional Certified Personal Trainer Texas Outdoor Family Leadership Training USA Archery Level 1 Instructor

Jane's journey to becoming a recreation coordinator at the senior center is a story in itself that includes a pursuit for higher education and becoming a business owner. She ran a business in Denton for 10 years before starting her career with the City.

During that time, she was able to continue her sports dream by working for TWU Athletics, and Texas A&M Commerce, as Director of Soft ball Operations. Altogether, her experiences enable her ability to keep Denton's senior community active.

Jane works to ensure you feel as though you're home away from home with opportunities to socially engage and invites you to stop by the front desk and ask to speak with her. Beware, she loves to talk and might even talk you into being a volunteer!

AT A GLANCE...

• Recreation Coordinator • Master's Ed; teaching fields Math & Physics • Certified Parks and Recreation Professional 17

Assistance For

Caregivers

CONTACT INFORMATION If you have questions, we're happy to help.

of Pets and People Senior Paws Program

Owning a pet is known to help lower instances of loneliness among older adults and can be crucial while homebound and faced with difficulties with procuring groceries and pet supplies.

Locally, Denton's Meals on Wheels service offers Senior Paws, a pet program that delivers pet food monthly to Meals on Wheels home- bound customers who might otherwise share their home-delivered meal with their pets. If you need both meals and pet food, please call (940) 382-2224.

Emergency Pet Food Pantry

Denton Animal Shelter provides a temporary Emergency Pet Food Pantry for those facing income insecurity due to COVID-19. Food is distributed by appointment only.

If you are in need of emergency pet food, please call (940) 349-7594.

Caring for the Caregiver

It's not selfish — it is necessary so you can keep being the best caregiver you can be. Sometimes it's hard to find someone or even trust them to take over for a few hours while you take a break; Take Time Texas can help.

Visit taketimetexas.org to access their searchable list of respite providers across the state 18

www.dentonparks.com (940) 349-8720 dsc@cityofdenton.com Americans with Disabilities

Denton Parks and Rec welcomes all individuals to participate regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability. Relay Texas services are available for the hearing impaired and can accommodate different needs and capabilities by dialing 7-1-1.

North Central Texas Aging and Disability Resource Center Connections Program Are you an older adult or person with a disability who’s without internet access? Would you like to get FREE access and a tablet that will let you connect with friends, family, and healthcare providers? Need help learning how to use a tablet?

We can help!

Call Jackie at 817-695-9142.

To qualify you must live in Collin, Denton, Ellis, Erath, Hood, Hunt, Johnson, Kaufman, Navarro, Palo Pinto, Parker, Rockwall, Somervell or Wise County.

The Connections Program is funded through September 31, 2021.

NON-EMERGENCY WARMLINES North Central Texas Area Agency Aging | Serves Adults Age 60+

800-272-3921; provides information on services that help meet basic needs.

North Central Texas Aging and Disability Resource

817-695-9142; no cost resource service for people with disabilities.

AARP FRIENDLY VOICE | Connecting People to People

888-281-0145; leave your info and a trained volunteer will call you back.

SAGEConnect

1-877-360-LGBT; addresses isolation within the LGBT community.

National Alliance on Mental Illness "Warmline"

817-546-7826 Texas Warmline; if you are not in crisis, but still want to talk to someone, call the Warmline Monday-Friday, 1-5 p.m.

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Community Resources Crisis Support Mental Health Awareness Support, Health Support, Food and Shelter, Crisis, COVID-19 Resources & More COVID-19 specific resources available

COVID-19 RESOURCES

Vaccine information COVID-19 mental health phone support, & more.

LOCAL RESOURCES

Local social services, housing, shelters, food pantries, and more.

CRISIS RESOURCES

Crisis phone support and mental health and suicide hotlines.

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City of Denton Parks and Recreation 321 E. McKinney Street Denton, TX 76205

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

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