Getting out, not just for youngsters

Getting older doesn’t mean you can’t go out and have a good time.

And it’s never too late to meet new people or learn new skills.

Not to mention the health benefits of socializing.

Lucky for Tucson’s seniors, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that — from social dances and clubs at senior centers to learning how to use a computer at the library.

“After all, gathering together for a congregate meal at one of 13 different local senior centers, or signing up to join a club that meets for a game of canasta, mahjong or Mexican train fosters socializing — a very important health benefit for people of all ages,” said Adina Wingate, director of marketing and public relations for the Pima Council on Aging.

Need some ideas? Read on.

Tucson Parks and Recreation offers a variety of activities with its Senior Activity Card, which costs $25 per year.

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The card includes access to the Senior Club program, where participants play card games and board games, make crafts, use exercise equipment and go on day trips.

For example, The Golden Age Club #1 — which plays mostly card games such as canasta and Mexican train — takes place at Randolph Recreation Center, 200 S. Alvernon Way, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Tuesday. The cost is free to members; $1 for non-members.

There are six other Senior Club locations in Tucson. For more information, go online to tucsonaz.gov/parks/senior-programs#club

Dance and listen to live music by Ken Novak and Ron Wagner from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Udall Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Road. Cost is $4.50 for non-members; $3 members.

Bring your own drum or instrument to the Southern Arizona Council of Grandmothers at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 3601 W. Cromwell Drive. It’s a monthly event that next meets 1 to 3 p.m. Jan. 16.

Learn how to use a computer at the Wheeler Taft Abbett Sr. Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drive. Don’t worry about feeling lost. The class teaches very basic skills from learning what a mouse is and how to use it to how to turn the computer on and off. It’s a two-part series that runs 10 a.m. to noon. Jan. 20 and 27.

Play mahjong at the Oro Valley Public Library, 1305 W. Naranja Drive. This is a fun way to meet like-minded people and practice your strategy skills. Play from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays. For mid-towners, the Himmel Park Library, 1035 N. Treat Ave., hosts mahjong from noon to 3 p.m. on Mondays.