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Westside Senior Center offers fun activities for older adults

If you are 60 years or older, Sunday Anderson Westside Senior Center has some exciting things for you to experience. The center opened its doors on June 17, 1978. For over 38 years, the center has been a major focal point for those who want to exercise, improve their health, meet new friends, expand their talents, enrich their minds, or simply eat lunch.

Getting the word out about the center and the special events and activities is one of new Director Tracey Gibson’s main priorities. There is a perception that in order to come to the center, you must pay. “There is no cost to attend,” she says, “although donations are accepted.”

Independent living is a strong component of the Salt Lake County Aging & Adult Services of which Sunday Anderson Senior Center is a part. Good nutrition is an important element of a healthier quality of life. Wholesome lunches are served Monday through Friday at noon, with a suggested donation of $3.00, if possible.

There are many opportunities for social interaction that can contribute to a healthier quality of life. Some of the current activities include: ceramics, exercise classes, nutrition education, shuffleboard, bunco, beginning drawing, Wii bowling, bingo and more. The center plans Wendover trips as well as short trips around the valley. The short trips are on a first come first serve basis, and there is a cost associated with each trip. The center also has a movie and popcorn twice a month. Program Assistant Sheryl Miller organizes events and activities.

Sunday Anderson Westside Senior Center offers round-trip van transportation to and from home to the center for a donation of $1.00 each way, if the senior lives within the center’s boundaries of 2100 South to North Temple and 3300 West to State Street. Call the center at (385) 468-3155 at least one day in advance to reserve transportation.

Gibson and the Sunday Anderson Westside Advisory Committee encourages those 60 and older to attend the center and take advantage of all the wonderful programs available to them. They are exploring the possibility of staying open for evening use in the near future. The days and times have not been solidified. Check with the center for more information about this in the coming months.

If you are over 60 or are aware of an older adult who would like to know more about the opportunities at the center, call them at (385) 468-3155 or visit Salt Lake County Aging Services at www.aging.slco.org. Better yet, just walk into the center at 868 West 900 South, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Gibson and her staff would love to give you a tour of the facility.