Hopefully, the daytime temperature will become more comfortable in the upcoming weeks. In the meantime, it’s important to be aware of the danger of high temperatures and the smoky air from the wildfires.
According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), hotter temperatures can be more dangerous for older adults than for younger people. “Hotter days can cause difficulty in the body’s ability to regulate its temperature.” Older adults do not adjust as well as others to extreme heat.
The NIA notes: “Additionally, older adults are more likely to have chronic medical conditions that affect the body’s response to temperature, and to take prescription medicines that alter the body’s ability to control temperature or sweat.”
Add in the effects of wildfire smoke on respiratory and other health conditions, along with heat, and it is a deadly combination. Be sure to check with your health care provider about how to protect yourself. Consider using an N95 mask if you have to go outside on smoky days.
For dealing with the heat, the NIA recommends: “Drink plenty of liquids, such as water, fruit or vegetable juices, or drinks that contain electrolytes. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages. If your doctor has told you to limit your liquids, ask what you should do when it is very hot.” Dehydration makes you tired, lethargic, and more prone to heat illness. Even gelatin desserts provide water.
Here’s an interesting point: if the temperature is 90 degrees or higher, a fan cannot cool you.
Without air conditioning, and with windows closed, the NIA states: “If your living space is hot, try to spend time during midday in a place that has air conditioning.” Cool off and avoid smoky air by coming to the ASI Senior Center. Take part in a class or program, or just come and sit to watch the activity. Call in for lunch before 9 a.m. and enjoy the air conditioning while having a delicious and nutritious lunch.
Senior Conversations
Join us every Monday at 1:15 pm for a series of “Senior Conversations” with local Bill Salmansohn. Salmonsohn brings to the conversations a variety of topics designed to stimulate discussions within a safe and comfortable environment as we explore our well-being and shared experiences. This is a unique opportunity to connect with others in the Archuleta community, fostering sharing and friendships. Snacks will be provided. Afterward, hosted by Robin Williams, stay for a get-together created for those who wish to continue the conversation. This opportunity is typically from 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm, following Senior Conversations. The group occasionally reconvenes as an informal gathering at various local restaurants.
Stretching & Mobility Weekly Class
Community members are invited to attend free weekly classes every Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Pagosa Springs Senior Center at 451 Hot Springs Blvd., in the back of the Ross Aragon Community Center. The stretching and mobility classes for adults aged 55 or better are designed to help build balance in the body through functional exercises that aim to improve mobility and flexibility.
Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of techniques that can help enhance overall movement efficiency.
Though not necessary, a mat is recommended for this class. The program is instructed by local dance instructor Dee Pitchon, who will provide modifications to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the exercises.
Emotional Freedom
On the second Wednesdays of the month, join the “Tappers,” who practice the self-regulation technique of EFT to relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and more! Come learn the technique on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the Senior Center. Everything you need to get started is included in this fun, engaging, supportive class. Taught by Judith Newman, LPC.
Mindful Drawing
Mindful Drawing is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Join our friendly instructor, Roberta Strickland, CZT. Classes are every Wednesday at 1:15 p.m. in the Pagosa Senior Center. This activity is open to all ages. Help us create an intergenerational community. For those under 18 and/or with disabilities, you are welcome to join us, but we kindly ask you to please bring an adult chaperone with you.
Ruby’s Writers Guild
The Ruby’s Writers Guild meets on Thursdays, 9 – 10:30 a.m. The Guild is an informal group that meets to support writers of all genres and experiences. We support writers through friendly critique, resources, discussion, and literary and cultural activities. Bring your secret idea drafts or completed manuscripts. Come join us.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi classes are held at Yamaguchi Park on Thursdays from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., through September. The class is intended to support older adults who want to discover purpose and fulfillment in this transitional phase of life. Tai Chi is not a martial art, but rather a tool for self-healing. Softness, flow, and effortlessness are the guiding principles in this practice. All classes are free for adults aged 55 and better, and classes will last approximately one hour. No special clothing or equipment is required.
Monthly Birthday Celebration
ASI celebrates seniors’ birthdays once a month in the dining room. Join us on Friday, August 15, for sweets and refreshments, and a little fun.
Produce Box Program
ASI, in partnership with TerraWalk Farms, is holding its second season of the Produce Box Program for seniors (55+) in Archuleta County. This is funded by ASI with assistance from a small grant from Nourish Colorado. Through this Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) initiative, eligible participants will receive weekly boxes of fresh, local, organic produce from June to mid-October. Eligibility Requirements: Must be a current or new ASI client (Meals on Wheels, congregate, pick-up/Grab-N-Go meals) or a resident of low-income senior housing (e.g., Casa De Los Arcos, Rose Mountain Homes). For more information about participating, please call Archuleta Seniors Inc. at (970) 264-2167. Participants pick up their box at the Pagosa Senior Center on Tuesdays, 11 a.m. – noon and 1 p.m.- 4 p.m.
Dine-In and Grab‘N’Go Lunch Monday through Friday
Join local elders, their friends, family, and community at the Community Café, also known as the Silver Fox’s Den, in person for delicious meals Mondays through Fridays downtown at the Ross Aragon Community Center between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Grab ‘N’ Go pickup via our convenient portico is also available all week, including Fridays To reserve your meal for the day, please make your reservation via text or phone call (970) 264-2167 before 9 a.m. weekdays. Please say whether it is dine-in or Grab ‘N’ Go. Our dining hall is open to all ages and welcomes you with kindness and warmth. We provide hot/cold meals for anyone in the community interested in a nutritious and delicious meal. For those 60 or older, we request a suggested donation of $6.00, but no one will be turned away. There is a $10.50 charge for guests under the age of 60.
Community Cafe Menu
Call before 9 a.m. Please note that occasionally the menu must be changed on short notice.
Thursday, August 14 – Tuna Salad Stuffed Avocado, Macaroni Salad, Dinner Roll, Garden Salad, Fruit, Banana Pudding, Milk
Friday, August 15 – Spaghetti Squash with Italian Sausage Marinara, Garlic Bread, Garden Salad, Fruit, Brownies, Milk
Monday, August 18 – Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple and Peppers, Snow Peas, Garden Salad, Fruit, Almond Croissant, Milk
Tuesday, August 19 – Cod Piccata, Brown Rice, Broccoli, Garden Salad, Fruit, Chocolate Cake, Milk
Wednesday, August 20 – Beef Pot Roast with Vegetables, Creamed Spinach, Dinner Roll, Garden Salad, Fruit, Milk
Thursday, August 21 – Cajun Shrimp and Grits, Zucchini Saute, Garden Salad, Fruit, Vanilla Yogurt, Mango-Coconut Bread Pudding, Milk
Friday, August 22 – Pork Tortilla Soup with Crispy Tortillas, Roasted Cauliflower, Garden Salad, Fruit, Flan, Milk
Meals on Wheels
We deliver fresh Meals on Wheels five days a week (and provide frozen Meals on Wheels for weekends) to homebound Archuleta County residents. The meals are delivered by our wonderful volunteers, whom we so greatly appreciate. Call or text us at (970) 264-2167 for information on how to sign up for the program.
Text Reservations
Don’t forget that we also offer a convenient texting service for you to communicate with us. Text us at (970) 264-2167. When texting, please include your name, phone number, and the days you want a meal. If you are calling/texting to cancel a reservation, please include your name, phone number, and the days you want to cancel.
Board Vacancies
ASI Board of Directors has positions open. Terms are 3 years with an option to renew for an additional term.
Potential candidates should be at least 21 years of age or older and must have a passion for adult and aging services.
Please stop by our offices at 451 Hot Springs Blvd. to pick up an application or call (970) 264-2167 for more information.
We are located at 451 Hot Springs Blvd., in downtown Pagosa Springs. For more information about ASI, please visit http://www.psseniors.org/