With a variety of programs and services developed to enhance the quality of life for adults 50 and better, the new Airway Heights Parks and Recreation Center has become a popular hub of activities for senior citizens.
30 to 40 people regularly come out for the weekly lunch served to eat and socialize according to Glen Horton, recreation program supervisor. The lunch is currently followed by a weekly educational series, currently addressing Alzheimer prevention.
Recreation assistant Paula Thornton served up a hot meal of meatball sandwiches, chips, cottage cheese and desert, along with a side of friendly conversation and welcoming smiles this last week.
Retiree Armand Bilodeau works out in the fitness center and came for lunch for the first time. He recently moved to Airway Heights from Florida to help in the care of his grandchild while his military son is deployed overseas from Fairchild Air Force Base.
“There is a definite easier pace of life here. The traffic is much better than back east. I see a lot of potential here and think it is going to be a great area” Bilodeau said.
Mike and Jo Cameron were there for their second week of lunch, visiting and program. Their favorite activity is using the Parks and Recreation Center swimming pools.
Jo was born and raised in the area and retired from driving school bus for Cheney. Both she and her husband said the traffic in the area had gotten worse over the years, but that the “recreation center is fabulous.”
Activities for seniors include fitness and wellness, cultural events, day trips and travel, technology classes, fine arts, and socializing with friends.
Senior lunch is in the banquet room every Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. and costs only $3. It is open to the public and is followed by an educational video at noon, currently on Alzheimer Prevention. The menus can be found in the Activity Guides available at City Hall or the Recreation Center and online at http://www.airwayheightsparksandrec.org/seniors or call 509-244-4845.
There is a daily coffee social from 7:30 – 11 a.m. by the fireplace in the lobby gathering area where people can gather to visit, or use the free Wifi.
A variety of fitness programs are available. SAIL (Stay Active and Independent for Life) is a strength, balance and fitness program designed for fitness and to reduce the risk of falling. It is held Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9-10 a.m.
Aquatics offers water aerobics and open swim programs geared to a variety of fitness levels.
Day trips and travel are offered with group transportation at a minimal fee to restaurants, museums, lake cruises, and casinos.
The recreation center offers an elevator to easily access the upstairs areas of the facility, and is full ADA compliant. The entire staff is American Red Cross trained and certified. AED devices are onsite and all employees are trained in their use according to Horton.
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