By Candice Wilson

Diana had recently retired and spent her days gardening, visiting family, and reading books. When her daughter Heidi suggested she visit the Ashland Senior Center to take a tour and pick up their latest newsletter, Diana replied with a scoff, “I don’t want to play bingo with a bunch of old people.”

The next day, over lunch, Heidi gently insisted and drove her mom to the Senior Center. Diana hesitated at the entrance, arms crossed and clearly unimpressed, but Heidi finally coaxed her inside. They were immediately greeted with a cheerful welcome from Sheila at the front desk: “Hi, welcome to the Senior Center!”

Heidi, a bit nervous, responded quickly, “Hi, we’re here for a tour and to grab a newsletter.” While Diana remained reserved, her curiosity sparked when she noticed a lively group of people heading into a nearby room—many wearing sneakers and exercise clothes.

They were introduced to the Director, Candi Wilson, who began the tour. “This is our Great Room,” she explained. “We offer exercise classes here every day—Joni’s fitness class, Zumba, Tai Chi, Chair Yoga, and Line Dancing. Today is Zumba!”

Candi continued, “This space also hosts our weekly lunches and large social events. Many of these include live entertainment and a meal—like our annual Holiday Party, New Year’s Eve celebration, Summer BBQ, Jimmy Buffet Tribute, Veterans Day gathering, and even lunches sponsored by our very own Fire and Police Departments. Some events are during the day, and others are in the evening—it all depends on what’s happening.”

As the tour continued, Diana was introduced to the Friends of the Council on Aging’s Country Store. Candi explained that all items in the store are donated, and the proceeds go directly back into the Senior Center to support programs and activities. Heidi’s attention was quickly drawn to a selection of jewelry and handbags as they passed the counter. Candi added, “This space serves many purposes—we host the Dull Men’s Group here, the Town Manager’s Coffee Hour, tea parties, social events, and even movie showings. This month, we’re watching Wicked.”

When they arrived at the Digital Lab and Library, a woman approached Candi to ask where to return a borrowed book. Candi pointed out the designated return basket. Diana perked up and asked, “Do you take donated books? Can I borrow from here?”

“Absolutely,” Candi replied. “This is a lending library—everything you see, including books, movies, and puzzles, has been donated, and you’re welcome to borrow anything. You can also use the computers and print from this printer. We offer monthly digital literacy classes, and this space is often used for meetings or simply relaxing with a good book.”

As they continued, Candi introduced Susan McNulty, the Outreach Coordinator. Just then, a group of men and women walked into the Game Room, chatting and ready to play cribbage. Susan shook Diana’s hand warmly and handed her a business card along with a list of resources she helps residents access, including farmers market coupons, fuel assistance, and a wide range of support services for seniors and their families.

Diana smiled and said, “Thank you. I may contact you about downsizing and moving into senior housing. Could you help me with that?”

“Absolutely,” Susan replied. “Just call me when you’re ready.”

As they reached the Game Room, Diana noticed a group setting up to play cribbage—an old favorite of hers. Her eyes lit up. “How often do they play?”

“Once a week,” Candi said. “And many of them play Pitch, too.”

“Oh, I love Pitch! I’d love to play again.”

Candi smiled, “We also have weekly Mahjong and Canasta games. 

Candi then led them to the Art Room, pointing out the variety of programs held there—craft classes twice a month, sewing sessions, painting workshops, and even gardening activities. Diana’s eyes lit up.

“Who runs the gardening class?” she asked with interest.

“Well,” Candi smiled, “I recently offered a seedling class myself, but with my limited time, I’d love to have someone with more experience lead future sessions. Would that interest you?”

With genuine delight, Diana replied, “Why yes—I would love that!”

“That’s fantastic!” Candi said. “Let’s introduce you to our Activities and Volunteer Coordinator, Mary. You can work with her to find a schedule that works for both you and the Center.”

Introductions were made, and Diana and Mary worked together to schedule gardening sessions for the following month. Mary also shared a list of other fun programs offered at the Senior Center—like ice cream socials and special events.

With a big smile, Diana thanked everyone for the tour and said, “I’ll see you next week!”

Heidi graciously turned to Candi and added, “There are so many wonderful activities here. I’m really looking forward to my mom getting out of the house and enjoying herself again.”

The following week, Diana found herself eagerly anticipating Thursday’s cribbage game. The matches were surprisingly exciting, and the lively conversations made the afternoon fly by. The next Monday, she decided to attend the community lunch and was delighted to discover that many of the other seniors had led fascinating, adventurous lives full of wisdom and stories.

By Friday, Diana was laughing with new friends over coffee when she had a realization—she had been so focused on what she thought she was giving up in retirement—her quiet routine—that she hadn’t considered what she might gain. She had found connection, laughter, purpose, and a renewed sense of creativity.

Weeks later, as she sat down for lunch with Heidi, she surprised her daughter with a bright smile.

“You know, Heidi,” she said, “I’m so glad you suggested we visit. I really enjoy my time at the Ashland Senior Center.”

The Ashland Senior Center offers far more than just social events. Monthly programs include legal consultations, hearing aid cleanings, blood pressure clinics, trivia with prizes, educational presentations, Parkinson’s boxing classes, cooking demonstrations, and Medicare counseling. Best of all, all of these programs are completely free to attend.

Thanks to the generous support of the Friends of the Ashland Council on Aging, many of these programs are made possible at no cost to participants. Through grants and financial contributions from the Friends, the Senior Center can continue to offer enriching, engaging, and inclusive programming for the community. Without their support, these free services would not be possible.