Chicago is a city where senior citizens are valued. This is evidenced by the citywide Senior Services-Area Agency on Aging. While this can be a valuable resource, seniors living in the Windy City should not limit themselves to programs offered through it. Indeed, there are a variety of senior activities in Chicago, Illinois that will get you out of your house, making new friends and feeling young again.
Volunteering
Volunteering provides the opportunity to get involved in your community by giving back to it. The Chicago area provides volunteering opportunities specifically designed for seniors such as local Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, Chicago Cares, Inc. and the Foster Grandparent Program. The last of these is offered through Senior Corps, part of the Corporation for National and Community Service. Seniors in this program are paired with young people needing an older mentor in their lives, allowing seniors to impart their special and specific wisdom to members of the younger generation.
Culture
One of the best parts of being retired is the amount of time you have to dedicate to cultural pursuits. Chicago has no want for cultural activities, from the arts to historical attractions and museums. Ethnic cultural museums in the area reflect the diversity of Chicago, including museums detailing the contributions of Ukrainians, Swedes, Jews, Italians and Mexicans to Chicago and the nation. Some cultural attractions in the city, such as Broadway In Chicago, offer discounted rates for senior citizens.
Socializing
The Windy City has an extensive network of senior centers. Senior centers provide the opportunity to socialize and go on trips with your peers. No fewer than six senior centers are operated throughout the city by Senior Services-Area Agency on Aging. In addition, a number of privately operated senior centers exist within the city and on its outskirts. Some of these, such as the Southeast Asia Center, cater to specific groups of seniors, including those whose first language may not be English.
Creativity
Seniors have much to offer the world due to their long life experience. Nowhere is this more true than in the realm of creative arts. Renaissance Court is a senior center in the city focused on the creative abilities of senior citizens. The center offers both the creative and the performing arts including music and writing. If you've long had the creative bug but never had the time to indulge it, Renaissance Court is the place to start your feet on the artistic path.
Exercise
Each of the senior centers operated by the City of Chicago's Senior Services-Area Agency on Aging provides for wellness and fitness programs. These programs are designed with Chicagoans aged 55 and above in mind. These are places where you can learn new sports and exercise with your peers in an environment designed specifically for your own special health and safety needs.
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