Growing Older: Same old, or something different and new?

SOME RETIRED seniors relish an almost overflowing plate ofactivities. Others combine family or other responsibilities withcherished leisure activities. For those wanting to become moreactive, there is no shortage of available opportunities.

The first step is to clarify what you would like to explore. Doyou want to identify programs and activities targeted to seniors orbroader based? Do you want to re-engage in a former interest or trysomething new? Do you need to secure information that will benefityour health and well being, or do you want to volunteer to assistothers in a certain situation?

How can you learn about activities that may interest you? Talkwith friends who have similar interests or are generally in theknow. Visit your local library, senior center, church or temple andask about any programs they may be sponsoring. Visit the Internetand do a search by entering an activity and geographic area.

Pay attention to stories, ads and listings in your localnewspaper. For example, the "What's Up in the Bay Area" section ofthis newspaper recently listed a free journal-writing workshop forseniors, starting April 8 at the Castro Valley Library (510-667-7900), and beginning bridge classes, scheduled to start April 6 atthe Pleasanton Senior Center (925-931-5365).

The Bay Area Senior Games, sports competitions taking place atStanford University and other Peninsula venues April 10-14, havebeen recruiting senior athletes and volunteers for this excitingfree event. Contact www.bayareaseniorgames.org or 650-323-9402. TheLindsay Museum in Walnut Creek will feature "The Art of Nature:Volunteer Art Show" starting April 14. Contact 925-935-1978.

Some seniors feel more comfortable trying something new withsomeone they know. Others anticipate meeting engaging people withsimilar interests. Many older people make new friends on a dancefloor at a senior center or on a bus during day trips. A one-timeexposure to an unfamiliar activity can help determine whether youmight want to commit to an ongoing involvement in learning,recreation or service.

Is there something you wish you had tried earlier in life?Consider converting an unfilled wish into a new passion. Do you haveideas for handmade jewelry, or want to learn a particular ballroomdance? Have you been tempted to look into educational travelarranged by such groups as Elderhostel (800-454-5768 orwww.elderhostel.com)? Is this your time to convert a fantasy into anenlivening new experience?

Growing Older is written by Sandra J. Cohen, R.N., and RogerCormier, M.A., of Cohen Cormier Home Care & Care Management. Reachthem at 510-652-3377, 925-945-8855 or www.eldercaremanagers.com.