These days, there’s nothing boring about getting older—and spring is the time to get busy. Here are eight options.
1. Keep on Learning
As part of Villanova University’s personal enrichment program for those 65 and above, you can sit in on undergraduate courses in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Past classes have explored artificial intelligence, the history of Italian food and American Indian culture. No matter your age, Main Line School Night has a class for you, whether it’s picking up a foreign language, mastering some tasty recipes or getting acquainted with a new instrument.
2. Indulge in the Arts
Cheer on local thespians at Media Theatre, People’s Light, SALT Performing Arts and Hedgerow Theatre. For those looking for a more hands-on experience, there are plenty of cool classes at Wayne Art Center and Main Line Art Center. Or check out Unsettled, the amazing new Jamie Wyeth exhibit, at Brandywine Museum of Art, which runs through June 9.
3. Explore Your Past
The library at the Chester County History Center offers archives dating back to the 1680s. If your roots are local, the librarian can help you search by family name and learn about your ancestors. If your roots are a little farther east, we recommend a visit to the Lower Merion Historical Society, an indispensable Main Line repository of thousands of books, maps, photographs and artifacts.
4. Get Centered
The Chinese martial art of tai chi is a good one for seniors thanks to its focus on balance and flexibility. If practiced regularly, you may even find some pain relief in hotspots like the knees and back. Ted Straub heads up some great classes at Berwyn’s Tranquil Tai Chi & Qigong.
5. Exercise Your Green Thumb
The Longwood Gardens calendar is packed with opportunities to incorporate some of their horticultural acumen into your own garden. This month’s classes include “Illuminate Your Landscape,” (April 6), “Creating the Ultimate Flower Garden” (April 20) and “Orchid Propagation” (April 27). Media’s Tyler Arboretum hosts special events throughout the year. Mark your calendar for their Annual Plant Sale May 3–5.
6. Talk About What You Read
The Chester County Library hosts various book discussion groups throughout the month. Over in Wayne, Main Point Books has a few book clubs of its own, including groups for fiction and nonfiction lovers. The store also hosts authors regularly, and the knowledgeable staff members are always happy to recommend their favorite reads.
7. Lend a Hand
So many local organizations could use your support. Dig in at one of Chester County Food Bank’s partnering farms or gardens, help assemble care packages for cancer patients at West Chester’s Unite for HER, or offer infant support in the NICU at Bryn Mawr Hospital. The volunteer opportunities in our region are endless.
8. Catch a Flick
Show your support for the nonprofit Bryn Mawr Film Institute, where you can see an eclectic slate of movies new and old. In West Chester, Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center screens a different title every Monday night for just $5. It’s often a classic, and popcorn is included in the price of your ticket.
Related: 3 Easy Ways for Main Liners to Build Healthy Relationships
