Health experts warn that social isolation and depression are growing concerns among senior citizens, especially as many older adults face reduced mobility, limited social interaction, and difficulty accessing community resources. Mental health professionals note that loneliness is closely linked to heightened risks of anxiety, cognitive decline, and physical health problems.
Despite the rising awareness, many cases of depression in older adults still go undiagnosed due to stigma, misconceptions about aging, or lack of mental health services tailored to seniors.
Community organizations are stepping in to help, and the Archuleta Senior Center is among those working to combat isolation and support emotional well-being. The center offers weekly social activities, and programs designed to keep seniors active and connected. Staff members say that simple acts, like sharing a meal, attending a fitness class, or joining a hobby group can make a significant impact on morale and mental health.
As policymakers and advocates call for more mental health resources for older adults, centers like ASI continue to serve as vital community anchors, helping seniors stay engaged, supported, and resilient.
Pagosa Puzzle Palooza
The Pagosa Puzzle Palooza, a team jigsaw puzzle contest, has twelve teams competing. It benefits Archuleta Seniors, Inc. and our local senior meal programs. It will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from noon to 5pm at the Pagosa Senior Center (Ross Aragon Community Center), 451 Hot Springs Blvd. Check in is at 12:00 noon, competition is 1:00 – 4:00pm, and awards are at 4:00 – 5:00pm.
While registration is sold out, you are welcome to come support a team and cheer them on.
Senior Conversations
The very popular Senior Conversations with local Bill Salmansohn is on Mondays from 1:30 p.m, to 2:20 p.m. at the Pagosa Senior Center. 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. Come to the Senior Center to learn or play every Tuesday at 1:15 p.m.
Emotional Freedom.
New day and time – On the second Thursdays of the month, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., join the “Tappers,” who practice the self-regulation technique of EFT to relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and more. 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.
Mexican Train Dominoes
Mexican Train Dominoes meets on Wednesdays at 1:15 p.m. at the Senior Center.
Ruby’s Writers Guild
The Ruby’s Writers Guild meets from 8:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays. The Guild is an informal group that supports writers of all genres and experiences. The Guild support writers through friendly critique, resources, discussion, and literary and cultural activities. Bring your secret idea drafts or completed manuscripts. Come join the group.
Tai Chi Chih, a Moving Meditation
Tai Chi classes is on Thursdays, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. in the Senior Center. Tai Chi Chih is not a martial art, but rather a tool for self-healing. Softness, flow and effortlessness are the guiding principles in this meditative practice. The 19 movements and 1 pose are designed to stimulate, circulate and balance the vital energy which is inherent in all of us.
Scrapbooking & Crafters Club
The Pagosa Springs Scrapbooking Club and Crafters club continues to hold monthly meetings the second Saturday of each month at the Ross Aragon Community Center from 10:00 am – 3:00 p.m. at 451 Hot Springs Blvd., within the dining hall in the Pagosa Senior Center. This creative tradition has been happening since 2005, and we invite all creative individuals to come and share ideas, connect with new and old friends, learn/share creative techniques, share supplies, and indulge in a potluck lunch together. Bring your scrapbooking projects – or any crafting project that you may want to work on with the group! Help us create an intergenerational community. Ages 18 and older welcome, and for those youth aged 17 and younger, we kindly request that an adult chaperone accompany them. If you would like to be added to the mailing list, please send your request to copenhavercreative@gmail.com, and you will receive notification each month of the upcoming meeting along with tips and tricks for scrapbooking and more.
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 by 8:45 a.m. on 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 or text 970-264-2167 by 8:45am.
Thursday, January 22 – Zuppa Toscana with Italian Sausage and Spinach, Focaccia Bread, Garden Salad, Fruit, Tiramisu, Milk
Friday, January 23 – Asian Chicken Salad with Mandarin Oranges, Scallions, and Crispy Noodles, Chicken Dumplings with Dipping Sauce, Milk
Monday, January 26 – Salmon with Dill Sauce, Roasted Butternut Squash, Broccoli, Garden Salad, Blackberry Pie, Milk
Tuesday, January 27 – Plum Chicken, Jasmine Rice, Snow Peas, Garden Salad, Fruit, Cookies, Milk
Wednesday, January 28 – Moroccan Stew, Spinach Artichoke Dip and Pita Chips, Garden Salad, Fruit, Chai Pudding, Milk
Thursday, January 29 – Beef Lasagna, Wilted Spinach, Garlic Bread, Garden Salad, Fruit, Milk
Friday, January 30 – Pork Tenderloin with Blackberry Glaze, Baked Potatoes, Lima Beans, Garden Salad, Fruit, Cottage Cheese, 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.
Mountain Transit Express Senior ParaTransit Services
Seniors over the age of 60 can be verified to receive services through discounted ParaTransit services, free bus rides, and pick up at your home to bring you to the Senior Center for lunch. To become eligible, there is a form to complete. Older adults needing a ride to a local food pantry can contact the Archuleta County MET to schedule a ride with their paratransit service. Call the Archuleta County MET at (970) 264-2250 for information.
Medicare assistance
For anyone who needs help enrolling and navigating Medicare plans, the San Juan Basin Area Agency on Aging helps with Parts A, B, and D. They can also help you with fraud concerns and troubleshooting any billing issues you may be having. By appointment only. Please call the Medicare line at (970) 403-6759 for an appointment and where to meet.
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 form or call (970) 264-2167 for more information.
Support the Senior Center
New, starting in 2026, small donations can be deducted without itemizing your tax return. It is the Permanent Universal Charitable Deduction. Here’s what this means: For tax years beginning after December 31, 2025, non-itemizers can deduct up to $1,000 for individual tax filing and $2,000 for married couples filing jointly. The goal of this provision is to recognize and encourage charitable giving across all income levels, potentially boosting donations from middle-income households who may not itemize their deductions. This change has the potential to significantly impact charitable giving patterns by incentivizing a broader base of donors. You may mail your donation to ASI, PO BOX 3444, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, or please visit our website: http://www.psseniors.org/ (donation button). Donation checks can be written to: Archuleta Seniors, Inc.