October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of early detection, education and support for those affected by breast cancer. The risk of breast cancer increases as you get older. Two out of three invasive breast cancers are diagnosed in women aged 55 and older. Because of this, regular screenings and early detection are critical. Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women, and catching it early can significantly improve survival rates. Communities across the nation are coming together this month with events, educational campaigns, and resources to emphasize the importance of women’s health and prevention.
Locally, the Archuleta County Health Department is offering screening services for breast and cervical cancers to uninsured women ages 21-64. These screenings are available for eligible participants who meet income guidelines. Women who qualify can access critical preventive care at no cost, ensuring more community members receive the medical attention they need. For more information or to schedule a screening, call the Archuleta County Health Department at 970-264-2409.
Our Upcoming Events
We have several events coming up, including our Masquerade Ball Fundraiser on October 24, 6 – 9pm, at Keyah Grande; our non-alcoholic drinks bar at the Holiday Market at the PLPOA Clubhouse on November 1 and 2; and our tree at the Festival of Trees on December 5 and 6.
Closed Monday, October 13 – The ASI Office, activities, and lunch service are closed Monday, October 13, for Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Senior Conversations
The very popular Senior Conversations with local Bill Salmansohn is on Mondays at 1:30 pm 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 – 3:30pm, 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 to 11:00am 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.
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 learn or play every Tuesday at 1:15 p.m.
Bridge
The game of Bridge is hosted on Tuesdays at 1:15 p.m. 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.
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.
Tai Chi Chih, a Moving Meditation
Thursdays, at the Pagosa Senior Center from 1:30 – 2:30pm. 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.
Bingo
The Pagosa Senior Center hosts bingo twice a month on Friday afternoons from 1:30 pm to 2:30 p.m. Join the group on October 3 and October 17. 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. No RSVP required, just show up. All ages are welcome, but we ask those 18 and younger to come with an adult chaperone. Seats are first-come, first-served.
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 9am 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.
Meals include a main course, side dish, fruit/dessert, garden salad, plus a beverage.
Community Cafe Menu
Please note that occasionally the menu must be changed on short notice.
Thursday, October 9 – Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing, Potstickers with Dipping Sauce, Poached Pear, Milk
Friday, October 10 – Aussie Meat Pie, Sweet Potatoes, Vegemite, Garden Salad, Fruit, Vanilla Yogurt Milk
Monday, October 13 – CLOSED FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ DAY
Tuesday, October 14 – Vegetable Curry over Brown Rice, Roasted Cauliflower, Garden Salad, Fruit, Tapioca Pudding, Milk
Wednesday, October 15 – Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles, Glazed Carrots, Garden Salad, Fruit, Cookies, Milk
Thursday, October 16 – Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, Broccoli, Garlic Bread, Garden Salad, Fruit, Cottage Cheese, Milk
Friday, October 17 – Ginger-Lime Shrimp, Cilantro Rice, Caribbean Beans, Garden Salad, Tropical Fruit, Key Lime Pie, Milk
Medicare Assistance by Appointment
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 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/