October 8, 2025

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Center for Modern Aging Princeton

A Semi-Weekly Eblast

THE LATE SHIFT — WEDNESDAY NIGHTS AT CMAP

DECODING AI: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE (Hybrid - In-Person at NSK Location and on Zoom)

Wednesdays starting October 8 through November 5, 6:00–7:30 p.m.

Fee: $30 resident/$40 nonresident 

Curious about AI but not sure where to start? This hands-on, five-week course is designed for older adults. Each week, we’ll cover:

• What AI is: What it can and can’t do, explained in plain English.

• Staying safe: How scammers use AI and simple steps to protect yourself.

• Practical uses: From organizing photos and recipes to travel planning and creative hobbies.

• Guided practice: We’ll try popular AI tools together with clear, step-by-step examples.

No prior experience is needed. Bring a smartphone, tablet, or laptop if you have one.

Instructor: Mike Castenada

AGELESS GRACE (In-Person at NSK Location)

Wednesday Evening, October 15, 6:00–7:00 p.m.

Fee: $5 per session

This unique group exercise program is specially designed to boost cognitive skills and enhance physical function through body-brain exercises. Ageless Grace is backed by research in neuroplasticity — the brain’s remarkable ability to reshape and adapt through new experiences. Each exercise targets key brain functions like memory, sensory perception, motor skills, and thought processing. 

Instructor: Allyson Toth

DIWALI: AN EVENING OF MUSIC AND LIGHTS (In-Person at NSK Location)

Wednesday, October 15 at 5:30 p.m.

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and the joy of community. Experience the beauty of dance, music, colorful rangoli, and delicious traditional foods in a gathering that welcomes all cultures to share in friendship, hope, and celebration.

Registration required, no fee.

“PEOPLE & PEACE TALK SHOW: CONRAD STRAUCH WITH PHILIP CARCHMAN” (In-Person at NSK Location)

Wednesday, October 15, 5:00–6:00 p.m.

Fee: $5

Behind every peaceful moment is a powerful story. “People & Peace” is a new monthly talk show from the Center for Modern Aging Princeton, featuring intimate conversations with community members who’ve lived, led, and created with purpose. From judges and artists to activists and survivors, each guest offers a unique lens on what it means to build peace in a complex world. Hosted by the thoughtful Rev. Conrad Strauch, this series invites you to join a live audience, engage in meaningful dialogue, and leave inspired. Come listen, connect, and experience something truly special.


We’re kicking off our first “People & Peace Talk Show” with Judge Philip Carchman, a beloved and respected voice in New Jersey’s legal community, as he shares personal reflections on fairness, justice, and how integrity can shape lives.

UPCOMING GROUPS

NEXT CHAPTER WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS (Hybrid)

Wednesday, October 8 at 11:00 a.m.

FORGET-ME-NOT DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS (Hybrid)

Saturday, October 11 at 10:00 a.m.

MEMORY CAFÉ (In-Person at NSK Location)

Monday, October 13 at 10:00 a.m.–noon

TRANSITION TO RETIREMENT (Hybrid)

Friday, October 17, 2:30 p.m.

Read group descriptions HERE.

GROUP/PROGRAM LOCATION KEY:

NSK – Nancy S. Klath Center for Lifelong Learning at 101 Poor Farm Road

SPB – Suzanne Patterson Building at 45 Stockton Street

______________________________________________________________

H – Hybrid Group/Program

Thank you to our featured sponsors:

LIVE FROM...GLOBAL VIRTUAL WALKING TOURS (In-Person at NSK Location)

Every Thursday at 11:00 a.m. (not meeting on 10/2, 10/23)

Fee: $5 per session


Thursday, October 9 — From Sukkah to Sukkah: A Jerusalem, Israel Harvest Festival Hop

Join us for virtual travel through new and exciting “Live From” walking tours of various countries from around the globe. Hear from live, local tour guides as they walk you through city streets discussing history, culture, architecture, and so much more.

Please note: Live From tours are live and can be weather and guide dependent. Locations will be promoted and emailed to those who register to receive notifications ahead of each trip but may change at the last moment.

Payment is accepted at the door!

(photo: By Zachi Evenor)

POKER: TEXAS HOLD ’EM 101 (In-Person at SPB Location)

Thursday, October 9 and October 16, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Fee: $10 resident, $15 nonresident

Are you ready to ante up and master the thrilling game of Texas Hold ’em? Join us for an exciting class designed specifically for beginners! Whether your brand new to the world of poker or looking to sharpen your skills, our expert instructor will guide you through the fundamentals of Texas Hold ’em in a fun and supportive environment. Please note that this class will not include betting with real money but will use chips, ensuring a risk-free yet immersive learning experience.

Instructor: Michael Schwarz II

NEW! YOGA FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT (Zoom)

Thursday, October 9 through December 18, 10:00 a.m. (no class on 11/27)

Fee: $80 resident/$90 nonresident

Designed for all levels, these classes use chairs for support and offer safe and supportive practices to help reduce tension, increase mobility, manage back pain, arthritis, or everyday aches. Using PainCare Aware principles you will learn to listen to your body’s signals, never forcing or ignoring pain. Resistance bands are used at times and will help you build strength without overdoing it. We will add simple meditation and breathwork practices to reduce stress and balance the nervous system. Together these simple yet powerful practices help you grow stronger, feel more relaxed, and most of all, comfortable in your body.

Instructor: Danalee Gascon

¡SE HABLA ESPAÑOL! CHARLAS DEL CORAZÓN (Zoom)

Thursday, October 9, 4:00–5:00 p.m.

Únete a conversaciones dinámicas y actividades que te sumergen en diversas culturas. Con juegos, narraciones y dinámicas interactivas, estos encuentros crean conexiones auténticas. Registro requerido, sin costo.


Join engaging conversations and activities that immerse you in diverse cultures. Through games, storytelling, and interactive dynamics, these sessions foster authentic connections.

Registration required, no fee.

THINKING THROUGH MEDICARE WITH SHIP (Hybrid - In-Person at NSK Location and on Zoom)

Friday, October 10, 12:30–1:30 p.m.

Metta Cahill, a volunteer Medicare counselor with NJ’s State Health Insurance Program, will offer unbiased information on a wide range of topics important to Medicare beneficiaries — Medicare, Medicaid, Medigap and Medicare Advantage options, Part D prescription plans, long-term care, as well as information on NJ’s public benefit programs for those with limited income and assets. 


There will also be a sign-up sheet to schedule one-to-one private sessions with Metta on another day, either via Zoom or in-person at CMAP.

Registration required, no fee.

HEALTH AS WE AGE – FIVE-WEEK SERIES (Hybrid - In-Person at SPB Location and on Zoom)

Mondays, October 13 through November 10, 1:00–2:00 p.m. 

Join Penn Medicine for this in-depth health class designed to dive into the various elements of health as we age from topics in personal health management, digital health tools (including patient portals), navigating medical bills, and planning for your future.

  Please note: While this class is designed for participants to attend the full five-week course, we will also allow people to register for individual sessions.

Registration required, no fee.

LET’S TALK ENGLISH (ESL) (In-Person at SPB Location)

Mondays, October 13 through December 1, 2:00 p.m.

Fee: $45

A light and informal class for older adults who want to become more fluent and comfortable with English conversation. Designed for older adults, this class makes English simple, fun, and useful. Each week we’ll focus on conversations for everyday life — from meeting friends to shopping to enjoying hobbies. Together we’ll practice useful phrases, share stories, and grow more confident every week. Instructor: Joan Kuskin

conversation-group-1200wSq.jpg

TED TALKS (Hybrid – In-Person at NSK Location and on Zoom)

Tuesdays in October, 10:30 a.m.

Together we’ll watch a TED Talk then participate in an awesome discussion led by Helen Burton. Everyone’s invited! This month’s buzzworthy topics:

October 14 — Jennifer Parlamis: Why venting doesn’t help you deal with anger

Registration required, no fee.

THE MASTERS OF BOHEMIAN MUSIC (Zoom)

Thursday, October 16, noon–1:00 p.m.

Fee: $10 resident/$15 nonresident

We journey to the heart of Central Europe to explore the rich and often overlooked legacy of Czech classical music. The region once known as Bohemia, part of the modern Czech Republic, has long been home to a vibrant musical tradition. While Antonín Dvořák is a familiar name, many other Czech composers helped shape the musical traditions of their time and created works deeply loved in their homeland and beyond. In this class, Dr. Brenda Leonard introduces seven remarkable composers whose voices deserve far more recognition.

POKER: TEXAS HOLD ’EM OPEN PLAY (In-Person at SPB Location)

Thursday, October 16, 2:00–3:30 p.m.  

Ready to test your poker face? Join our Texas Hold ’em group for exciting, strategy-filled games! This is perfect for those who already have a basic understanding of the game. Enjoy the thrill of poker in a friendly, no-money environment. Sharpen your skills, meet new friends, and have a great time — no stakes, just fun!

Registration required, no fee.

UNITED WAY (In-Person at NSK Location)

Get Personalized Support for NJ Save, Get Covered NJ, and SNAP!

Our United Way Resource Specialist will be available to provide assistance with NJ Save, Get Covered NJ, and SNAP applications. Whether you have questions or need guidance, we’re here to help.

ALBERT EINSTEIN EXHIBIT: CHAMPION OF RACIAL JUSTICE (In-Person at NSK Location)

Friday, October 17, 3:00 p.m.

Albert Einstein is celebrated worldwide for his groundbreaking scientific discoveries, but fewer people know about his deep commitment to social justice. This special program will feature an exhibit and presentation highlighting Einstein’s advocacy for racial equality and his friendships with African Americans in Princeton and beyond.


When Einstein first arrived in Princeton on October 17, 1932, he found safety from Nazi persecution, calling it a “paradise.” Yet he was deeply troubled by the segregation he witnessed in his new home and formed meaningful connections with Princeton’s Black community, using his influence to support national civil rights leaders.


Join us as we celebrate this historic day with Einstein’s favorite dessert — ice cream — and honor him not only as a scientific genius but also as a courageous champion of human rights.

Registration Required, no fee.

你好! (NǏ HǍO!) CHINESE CONVERSATION & FRIENDSHIP GROUP (In-person at SPB Location)

Friday, October 17, 11:00 a.m.–noon

Join our new Chinese Conversation & Friendship Group, a welcoming space to practice Mandarin, engage in meaningful conversations, and build connections. Whether you’re a native speaker or learning the language, this group offers a relaxed environment to share stories, exchange ideas, and celebrate Chinese culture. Meetings will be informal and guided by participants’ interests.

Registration required, no fee.

INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL (In-Person at NSK Location)

Saturday, October 18, 2:00–5:00 p.m.; Fee: $10

The International Music Festival 2025 returns for its third year! Don’t miss this multicultural and intergenerational celebration, bringing together seniors, families, and neighbors for live performances that showcase diversity, unity, and the healing power of music.

MEDICARE APPOINTMENTS (In-Person at NSK Location)

Every Monday of the month

Our Medicare expert, Roderick Spann from Senior Advisors, will be on-site every second and fourth Monday to assist with Medicare-related questions, enrollment, and guidance. Stop by for personalized support and expert advice!

PICKLEBALL MANIA

Join us for pickleball instructions sessions available for everyone from beginners to intermediate, private lessons to larger group workshops! You can even rent our court for your own private group play in our climate controlled gym! Learn more about our programs and check out next months schedule on our website below.

GROUP/PROGRAM LOCATION KEY:

NSK – Nancy S. Klath Center for Lifelong Learning at 101 Poor Farm Road

SPB – Suzanne Patterson Building at 45 Stockton Street

______________________________________________________________

H – Hybrid Group/Program

Cost should never be a barrier to learning! 

Senior Scholarships are available for all our programs.

To request a scholarship, go HERE.

Please note that Zoom assistance is available,

please click HERE to request tech help.

Tel: 609.751.9699 |  info@cmaprinceton.org | website: cmaprinceton.org

A STEADY LIGHT THROUGH CHANGING TIMES

Because you have been engaged in CMAP programming, we invite you to make a donation to help continue our work with older adults across the region. 

While we are “Doing Business As” Center for Modern Aging, many financial institutions may list us as Princeton Senior Resource Center. Checks can be accepted under either name. For our tax ID number, please contact cgomes@cmaprinceton.org or call 609.751.9699, ext. 108, if needed.

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