MADISON – ‘Boredom’ is a word that doesn’t fit in at Madison Senior Center, considering the many just-for-fun games, educational sessions and recurring activities.

Members congregate for recreation, meeting new acquaintances and entertainment. The center’s staff develop partnerships with local agencies for a full schedule of opportunities to stay safe, active and healthy. (madisonal.gov)

Levoneia Ayers works as Director of Madison Senior Center.

In association with Madison Public Library, the center is organizing its own book club. The club’s first meeting will be Jan. 6 at 10 to 11 a.m. to start discussion for “The Judge’s List” by John Grisham (large print available).

Book Club will meet every other month and alternate with “Let’s Get Crafting.” The library has 10 of Grisham’s book available for check out. Club members are expected to participate for the entirety of reading the book.

Starting Jan. 6, 2023, “Chair Yoga” will meet on Fridays from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Chair yoga reduces strains on joints and muscles, which makes the exercise even more accessible to people that cannot perform traditional poses in yoga.

Other benefits of chair yoga include improvement in flexibility; aiding concentration and strength; boosting a person’s mood; and reducing stress.

Another new option is “Coffee and Conversation,” available daily from 9 to 11 a.m. in Room C for members to gather and chat. The timing allows members who exercise early to relax and wait for the next activity. Pour a cup of coffee, read magazines or watch television while waiting.

“Therapy Partners” involves the popular concept of introducing an animal, usually a dog, to meet and share time with individuals. This ‘animal-assisted therapy’ has been proven to lower blood pressure, along with helping anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Senior center members heartily welcome trainer Rosie and her canine friend, Roxy.

Among many other options are balance class, strolling, gardening and water aerobics/lap swimming at Dublin Park’s indoor pool.

Bingo attracts most members for a lively game time. Other recreation includes billiards, card games, ceramics, “Jewelry Made Easy,” numerous craft times and “Sit & Sew.”

Members must register online for sessions. To register, visit myactivecenter.com.

For more information, call 256-772-6242, email SeniorCenterInfo@madisonal.gov or visit Facebook/Madison Senior Center or madisonal.gov/Departments/Parks & Recreation.