Vital Living programs at ESNS

Connect to Tech:  East Side Neighborhood Services hosts Connect to Tech, a series of classes for older adults to increase confidence and understanding using smart phones, iPads, and tablets. Classes are free and offered over Zoom. Class size is limited so register soon. Offered in partnership with Cyber Seniors.  On-going tech support is available over the phone for as many times as needed for participants. Using iPads and iPhones, Nov.16, 1-2 pm; Using cell phones and tablets (non-Apple products), Nov. 16, 2-3 pm; Getting better with Zoom, texting, and emailing, Nov. 23, 1-2 pm. Call 612-787-4086 or email VitalLiving@esns.org.

Managing the Holidays with Ease: A Look at Co-Dependency (& How to Let Things Go)  Raphael  Szykowski, licensed social worker, discusses additional elements of family dynamics, including some patterns and behaviors common within co-dependency. Gain an understanding of how co-dependency fits within family systems and discover strategies for creating healthier dynamics. These presentations are open to the public. There is no fee to participate but registration is required.  Friday, Dec. 10, 12-1 pm on Zoom.  Contact: LFlavin@esns.org or 612-787-4076.

Reimagining Aging Book Club: “The Big Finish”  Saturday, Dec. 11, 9-10 am. Bring your coffee and join the Zoom discussion of engaging and enlightening books about aging and what it means to live a vital life today. Reframe the idea of aging as opportunity — the opportunity to reach out to other generations, share wisdom, and learn new ways of living in the world — and how to grow up and grow old together.  This month’s selection is “The Big Finish” by Brooke Fossey. Contact: 612-787-4086 or VitalLiving@esns.org.

NE Day Spot: NE Day Spot is a virtual gathering place for those living with memory loss and other chronic conditions, as well as the folks who assist in their care. Enjoy 60-90 minutes of curated, virtual programming designed to keep you and the person you’re partnering with engaged, challenged, and happy. Sessions focus on art, music, education, and movement that offers each participant space to get creative and curious while making meaningful connections. Worried you won’t have what you need at home? NE Day Spot volunteers hand deliver all materials needed for any given activity. Weekly on Fridays, 10:30 am-12 pm via Zoom. No fee to participate in these Zoom gatherings but space is limited. Registration: Lisa Harrigan, 612-787-4023 or  LHarrigan@esns.org.

Tai Ji Quan: Moving For Better Balance: Beginner Class, Mondays & Thursdays, 1-2 pm, through Jan. 27. This class reduces risk of falls by improving balance, muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility through mindful movements in a slow, flowing motion. These one-hour beginner sessions meet twice a week for 24 sessions.This hybrid class model will be offered via Zoom with the goal of an additional in-person option added at a location TBD in Minneapolis, depending on the status of COVID-19.  All participants must have a computer or tablet (with a camera and microphone) or a smartphone. Technical help will be available. Registered participants will receive class information prior to the class start date. Donations accepted based on a cost share. Contact 612-787-4086 or VitalLiving@esns.org

Vital Fitness Home Edition:  Tune in weekly to the live video happening on East Side’s Facebook page every week for a variety of exercises that improve balance, strength, and coordination. For previous recordings, visit their Facebook or YouTube pages. Every Tuesday, 10:30-11:30 am. Contact 612-787-4086 or VitalLiving@esns.org