Top 10 reasons to visit the Westlake Senior Center in September

People love Top 10 lists. David Letterman made them a part of our pop culture, and the internet assures an ongoing supply. We like them for a number of reasons: they're memorable, educational, practical, motivational and give us a platform to rank our views, express our opinions and have something to talk about over cocktails or coffee. Senior centers are likable for the same reasons!

In honor of the Top 10 list, here are the Top 10 Reasons why you (who are Plus 50) should visit the Westlake Senior Center in September:

1. Aging Alone (a paradoxical monthly group with topics to help seniors aging alone, not age alone), on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 10 a.m. The topic will be "Conversation with a Fireman" – Westlake's Assistant Fire Chief, Mike Freeman, will join us to discuss safety in your home. RSVP by Aug. 31.
2. Through the Eyes of an Artist, a weekly series on Thursdays at 10 a.m., beginning Sept. 6. Felicia Zavarella entertains and educates us about the history and lives of artists: Monet, Remington, Gauguin and Picasso. Learn some of the back-stories of their lives as you view their work with a better understanding. Cost is $12 for series, payable by Sept. 5.
3. Flu Shots (OK, this falls in the "practical" category for why we like Top 10 lists) on Wednesday, Sept. 26; schedule your appointment between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. All participants will receive a $5 Giant Eagle gift card. Medicare and most insurances are accepted.
4. History of the World as Told by Salt on Mondays, Sept. 10-Oct. 22, at 1 p.m. A rock, a mineral, a spice; salt is essential for life in general. It is one of the oldest and most ubiquitous food seasonings. Ted Smith will teach us how the mining, trade and distribution of this valuable commodity shaped our history. Cost is $10 for series, payable by Sept. 7.
5. A New Weigh of Life: "Sugar Blues" on Tuesday, Sept. 11, at 10 a.m. Jennifer Yoo will share tools, tips and ideas on how (and why) to limit or rid yourself of this highly addictive substance. RSVP by Sept. 10.
6. Robby's Voice program AND LUNCH on Wednesday, Sept. 12, at 11:30 a.m. Robby's Voice is a non-profit named after a young man who fell victim to the opiate epidemic. His grandparents give the talk, on how to recognize and cope with addictions from their perspective as grandparents who tragically lost their grandson. Personnel from the West Shore Enforcement Bureau and UH St. John Medical Center will also be on hand to provide resources and an update about our community's efforts to fight this epidemic. RSVP by Sept. 6.
7. Chronic Pain Self-Management on Tuesdays, Sept. 11-Oct. 16, from 9-11:30 a.m. This evidence-based workshop is designed to give individuals with chronic pain issues self-management tools to greatly improve their lives. Subjects covered in this interactive class include techniques to deal with fatigue, frustration, isolation, negative thinking and poor sleep.  Exercises appropriate for maintaining strength, flexibility and endurance are demonstrated. A workbook will be given to each participant. If you register, you must be able to commit to at least 4 of the 6 sessions. Space is limited! RSVP by Sept. 7.
8. AARP Smart Driver on Friday, Sept. 21, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Review driving skills, habits and knowledge of rules of the road. Learn how to adjust your driving response to age-related physical changes. Feel free to bring a brownbag lunch. The DMV will also have an eye testing station on site this day (no appointment necessary for the eye testing only). Cost is $15 for AARP members/$20 for non-members. RSVP by Sept. 14.
9. Medicare 101 on Wednesday, Sept. 5, at 1 p.m. The title says it all! Presented by an Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) counselor. RSVP by Aug. 31.
10. Piano Man on Wednesday, Sept. 26, at 11 a.m. Enjoy a hearty lunch as patron John Herwig entertains us on the piano. You are encouraged to sing along, as long as your mouth isn't full! Cost is $8, payable by Sept. 19.

RSVP to 440-899-3544 or stop in and take a tour at 29694 Center Ridge Road, we are the white building on the golf course. Check out our monthly newsletter at www.cityofwestlake.org/157/Community-Services. We are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.