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Albuquerque’s Department of Senior Affairs has dropped the sign-up age at the city’s network of seven centers to 50 and is kicking off a new slate of classes starting this month designed to appeal to Boomers.
The classes include everything from fly-fishing and digital photography to feng shui and macrobiotic cooking. Topics were suggested by Boomers who said they were interested in convenience, volunteer opportunities, fitness, travel and a creative – even quirky – twist to crafts and practical topics.
Mayor Martin Chavez said the new program – called Planet 50-Plus – is “destined to attract more seniors to stay healthy and active.”
“About 35,000 Albuquerque-area Boomers are in their nifty 50s, and they want fun and meaningful activities – on their own terms,” said Blanca B. Hise, department director. “How could it be any different for a generation that grew up in the 60s and 70s?”
Senior Affairs has been paving the way for younger seniors by adding state-of-the-art fitness facilities to its centers at Palo Duro and Manzano Mesa, and planning another at Los Volcanes on the Westside. In addition, computer classes and high –speed Internet are now available at the centers and one center in the North Valley offers wireless access. To accommodate working 50-somethings, some centers will remain open longer and on Saturdays.
“For a $13 annual fee, membership in Planet 50+ is one of the best deals in town,” said Hise. To become a member of 50+, sign up at any center. For more information about the classes or other programs, call 505-764-6400 or e-mail the department.