Facility & Activities
The Town of East Hartford Senior Services Division operates the East Hartford Senior Center located at 15 Milbrook Drive. The facility is open to all East Hartford residents age 55 and over. Senior Services does not charge an annual membership fee to participate in programs, classes, events or activities. Please call 860-291-7460 for more information on how to sign up for membership. For a full list of our monthly programs please refer to the East Hartford Senior Center Newsletter.
Hours of Operation:
- Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Tuesday and Thursday 8:30 am - 7:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am -12:00 pm
Fitness/Movement Classes for All Fitness Levels (please see current newsletter for days/times classes meet)
- Exercise'n Energize - This class is designed for those who want to improve their strength, muscle tone, and endurance through low-impact aerobic, balance and strength exercises. Light handweights are available for use.
- Tai Chi – This form of Chinese martial arts can be an effective therapy for a range of health problems. Tai chi can reduce the risk of falls and injury. It may also improve circulation, flexibility, posture, blood pressure and heart rate as well as ease pain, reduce stress, and increase energy. Chair Tai Chi, Beginner and Intermediate classes are offered.
- Chair Yoga – Enjoy the benefits of Yoga without having to get on the floor. All Yoga poses and gentle stretching are done with the support of a chair. Breath work is combined with slow and controlled movements that can enhance coordination, balance, flexibility and strength.
- Gentle Yoga - Enhance coordination, balance, flexibility and strength. Class is conducted laying or sitting down on a mat, in a chair and or standing. Breath work is combined with moderate yoga postures,stretching and slow movement. Modifications are offered.
- Dance Rhythms - A dance movement class incorporating multiple styles set to a mix of popular music. The class will begin with a warm up exercise and then progress to learning a new dance combination every week. Dancers will learn proper technique as well as steps and moves focusing on rhythm and sound..
- Zumba Gold - If you enjoy great music and international rhythms, you will love this class. This program was developed specifically for young at heart, fun loving people. A dance fitness class that simultaneously exercises your brain and body. No Dance experience is required. This class is free if you have your Silver Sneaker card. If not a Silver Sneaker member, the cost is $3 per class.
- Gentle Chair Exercise - Great for people of all activity levels. those who are looking for easier, gentle exercise and those who are a little more fit. The class is designed ot stretch, tone, activate and strengthen muscles that aren't regularly used in a typical workout. The class includes breathing exercise and relaxation techniques.
- Strength and Balance - This class includes a standing warm up, seated toning exercises, standing balance work, and a seated stretch. Designed for every ability level and any body type. These exercises will include modifications for those with physical limitations. This class is free if you have your Silver Sneaker Card. If not a Silver Sneaker member, the cost is $3 per class.
Additional Fitness Programs
- Fitness Center- Open to residents age 55 and up Monday through Saturday during our hours of operation. The fitness room has cardio machines and strength training machines. You do need a medical clearance form from your physician that we provide. There is an additional cost for the fitness room. Registration forms and medical clearance forms can be found on our web page. Please call Susan at 860-291-7492 for more information.
- Senior Open Swim - Open to residents ages 55 and up Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays: 4:30pm - 5:30pm. Free! Residents only/proof of residency required. Held at East Hartford Middle School Pool. Pool entrance located on Scotland Road (no pool access from Burnside Road entrance). Current max of 12 swimmers permitted in the pool at one time. RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED by calling 860-291-7160. Please note that the pool is closed on all school holidays and other school closures.
Creative Expression
- Painting - All levels are welcome! There is an instructor here to help you explore and improve your painting skills, including technique, composition, and color. Participants may work in either water soluble, oil paints or acrylic. Please call 860-291-7492 for a list of supplies to bring and more information on this program.
- Knitting/Crochet - Meets every Tuesday from 1:00pm - 3:30pm. Please bring your materials, supplies and projects. The knitters and crocheters who are making comfort blankets can also meet during this time.
- The Plant Guy - Every month Jeff Eleveld, the famous Plant Guy, presents for a different educational program on Horticulture. Everyone goes home with a plant! Call 860-291-7492 for more information.
- All Levels Painting Class - Once a month you have the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece to take home with you. No experience necessary. Call 860-291-7492 for more information.
Health Screenings
- Blood Pressure Screenings
- Foot care Program
Educational Presentations
- Stroke Awareness & Prevention
- Fall Prevention
- Financial Strategies
- Medicare Updates
- SNAP
- Nutrition/healthy eating
- Community services and resources
Wellness Services
- Therapeutic Massage - by appointment
- Haircuts - by appointment
Other Ongoing Programs and Activities (see current newsletter for more information)
- Lunch Served Daily
- Various Game Groups: We host weekly Set Back, Cribbage, Mahjong, Dominos, Pinochle, and Game Day groups free of charge!
- Ask the Lawyer
- Book Discussion Group
- Cooking with Lindsey
- Wii Bowling & Wii Games
- Pool Table
- Free Movies on the Big Screen
- Bingo: Tuesday Evenings and Thursday Afternoons
- Tech Support: Tuesdays by Appointment
Support Groups
- Alzheimer's Support Group
Special Events
- Dinner Dances
- Luncheons/Teas
- Intergenerational Events
- Bus Trips