Determining when it is safe for seniors to continue driving is an important issue that balances independence with safety. Aging can bring changes in vision, reaction time, flexibility, and cognitive function, all of which can affect driving ability. However, age alone is not a reliable indicator, many seniors remain safe, capable drivers well into their later years. Warning signs such as frequent close calls, difficulty staying in lanes, confusion in familiar areas, or slower response to traffic signals may indicate it is time to reassess driving habits. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers, including vision and hearing tests, can help seniors stay aware of any changes that might impact their ability to drive safely.
There are also proactive steps seniors can take to maintain confidence and safety behind the wheel. Limiting driving to daylight hours, avoiding high-traffic areas, and keeping up with vehicle maintenance can all make a difference. Many communities offer driving refresher courses specifically designed for older adults, helping them stay updated on road rules and safe driving techniques. Family members can play a supportive role by having open, respectful conversations about safety concerns. Ultimately, the goal is to help seniors remain as independent as possible while ensuring their safety and the safety of others on the road.
ASI will be hosting an upcoming AARP Smart Driver Course designed to help participants refresh their driving skills and enhance their knowledge of current road rules and potential hazards. This valuable course can improve driving confidence and promote safer driving habits for older adults and the community as a whole.
Participants may also qualify for a discount on their auto insurance upon completion of the course. Additional details, including dates and registration information will be announced soon.
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 11am and 1pm. 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 8:45am on weekdays. Please say whether it is dine-in or Grab ‘N’ Go. 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
Thursday, April 30 – Teriyaki Pork Ribs, Coconut Rice, Gingered Carrots, Garden Salad, Fruit, Chai Pudding, Milk.
Friday, May 1 – Shrimp Scampi over Linguine, Garlic Bread, Garden Salad, Fruit, Milk.
Monday, May 4 – Navy Bean and Bacon Soup, Focaccia Bread, Garden Salad, Fruit, Blueberry Cobbler, Milk.
Tuesday, May 5 – Bavarian Bratwurst, Baked Potato Salad, Sweet and Sour Cabbage, Garden Salad, Fruit, Milk.
Wednesday, May 6 – Philly Cheesesteak on Hoagie Roll, Cheesy Cauliflower, Garden Salad, Fruit, Milk.
Thursday, May 7 – Butternut Squash, Mushroom and Sage, Lasagna, Garlic Bread, Garden Salad, Fruit, Milk.
Friday, May 8 – Fish Sandwich with Tartar Sauce, Coleslaw, Garden Salad, Fruit, 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.
Senior Conversations
The very popular Senior Conversations with local Bill Salmansohn is on Mondays from 1:15 to 2:15pm at the Pagosa Senior Center.Salmansohn 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. 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 – 3:30pm, following Senior Conversations.
Stretching & Mobility Weekly Class
Community members are invited to attend free weekly classes every Tuesday from 10:00 to 11:00am. 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.
Mahjong
Mahjong is a 19th-century Chinese tile-based game that is commonly played with four players. Each player receives 13 tiles to make matching sets and pairs (like poker). To win, a player must form four sets and one pair. Come to the Senior Center to play every Tuesday at 1:15pm.
Bridge
The game of Bridge is held on Tuesdays at 1:15pm every week. It has also been added on Wednesdays at 1:15 PM. Bridge is a four-player card game with partners sitting opposite each other around a table. It is a trick-taking card game using a standard 52-card deck. Come alone or bring a partner.
Emotional Freedom
On the second Thursdays of the month, from 1:30 to 2:30pm, 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.
Ruby’s Writers Guild
The Ruby’s Writers Guild meets from 8:45 to 10:30am 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.
Bingo
Join us for bingo on Friday, March 13 and 27, at 1:30pm. Participation is free, and all we ask is that you bring yourself and a friend for an hour of joyful fellowship. We have prizes from local businesses for all winners and snacks are also provided.
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.
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.
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.