Wake Forest Center for Active Aging

January 28, 2026

Welcome

 

Welcome to the Wednesday Wink!


In this week's installment, we invite you to our February 19 Coffee With a Commissioner, offer details on February's Heart Health Month initiatives, share information about upcoming classes at the WFCAA and Renaissance Centre, and Meals on Wheels, including the February 2026 menu, remind you about our Book Worms Book Club, Learn to Play Crokinole sessions, Friday Social Bridge Club, and Tuesday Karaoke, share "News You Can Use" & more!

 

Share Your Opinion

 

We want to hear from you! Town seeks feedback on qualities you want to see in next WFCAA Director


The Town of Wake Forest is about to begin developing a process to guide the hiring of a director for the WFCAA.


You can aid this effort by sharing your ideas and opinions via our online survey.


Your feedback will be used to identify competencies needed in the next director and identify critical issues facing the Town and the WFCAA. All responses will remain anonymous.


Survey results will be summarized by the consulting group, Developmental Associates, which will manage the Town's search and hiring process.


The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete, and the submission deadline is Tuesday, Feb. 10.

 

You're Invited

You're invited to share coffee and conversation with Wake Forest Commissioner Faith Cross!


Commissioner Cross is now hosting "Coffee With a Commissioner" on the third Thursday of each month from 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the WFCAA lobby.


Coffee With a Commissioner is an opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee with Commissioner Cross while sharing your thoughts and opinions about the WFCAA - and anything else that's on your mind - in a relaxed and comfortable setting.


No appointment is necessary and everyone is welcome, so we look forward to seeing you on Thursday, Feb. 19, at 9:30 a.m.


For more information, email Monica Lileton.

 

February is Heart Health Month

 

Enjoy Our Free Heart Healthy Fitness Classes & More!


Visit our information table in the main lobby throughout February for information handouts, free items, heart healthy snacks, and more, including these FREE Heart Healthy Fitness classes:


  • FREE Activator Poles with a PT on Friday, Feb. 13, at 9 a.m.
  • FREE Tai Chi with a PT on Friday, Feb. 27, at 9 a.m.
 

Register Today for These Upcoming Classes

 

More Muscles with Activator Poles            

Mondays | Feb 2-March 16 | 1-1:50 pm


No, not that kind of pole!


Activator Poles(TM) by Urban Poling Inc. are designed to amplify the walk or exercise you are doing by activating more muscles and burning more calories. In fact, research shows that when utilized to their full potential, up to 90% of the muscles in our bodies are activated using their core grip handle.


More Muscles with Activator Poles is a moderate-intensity workout set to fast-paced music in order to elevate your heart rate and get you breathing a little faster. The physical activity involved focuses on functional and core strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance. Walking will be performed intermittently during class and water breaks will be provided.


Each class will have a warm up and stretching section.


Intensity Level: Moderate. Elevates the heart rate and quickens breathing because it demands a noticeable yet manageable effort.


Duration: Typically 45 minutes of movement (e.g., standing, walking, squatting, reaching, etc.) calling for moderate flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance.


At Your Own Risk: By registering and/or participating in this class, you accept full responsibility for any risks, injuries, or damage, known or unknown, that you might incur due to participation. If you do not want to accept full responsibility, do not register or participate.


No class on February 16.


Cost: Residents: $30 | Non-Residents: $38  

Mozilla Firefox Browser

Thursday-Friday | Feb 5-6 | 1-3 pm


Mozilla Firefox Browser is a computer instructional class for the inexperienced or novice user.


This two-day class is for anyone who has a computer or is thinking of getting one.


We begin with a discussion of browsers in general and their purpose. Hands-on instruction is a way of learning and the pace of the class is geared toward a comfortable learning experience.


Free for residents and non-residents.

Two Left Feet Line Dance – Level 1

Tuesdays | Feb 10-March 17 | 3-3:50 pm


Two Left Feet Line Dance - Level 1 is for those new to line dance and those needing a refresher. You will learn fun & easy-to-follow dances to many different types of music. Expect to start at the beginning, learn the basics, and then gradually progress to next-level routines. Each class will review the dances from the previous week and introduce new ones. No dance experience is necessary.


Intensity-Level: Moderate. Elevates the heart rate and demands a noticeable yet manageable effort. Quickens breathing but typically allows conversation. May spark a light-to-moderate sweat within 10-15 minutes.


Duration: Typically 45 – 60 minutes of movement (e.g., standing, walking, dancing, reaching, etc.) calling for moderate flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance.


At Your Own Risk: By registering and/or participating in this class, you accept full responsibility for any risks, injuries, or damage, known or unknown, that you might incur due to participation. If you do not want to accept full responsibility, do not register or participate.

Please arrive promptly to the first class to consider safety materials and complete additional required forms. Instruction for this class is provided by Twenty After Twelve LLC.


Residents: $24 | Non-Residents: $30

Feb. Mini Spa Workshop      

Monday, Feb 16 | 11am-Noon


Give your mind and body a little extra care with a simple, soothing spa-themed workshop. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to create natural, non-toxic products that help you unwind and feel refreshed.


We’ll make a luxurious foot-soak salts (a type of bath salt) to soothe tired feet and promote relaxation, along with a gentle sugar scrub for hands and arms to exfoliate, soften, and refresh the skin using essential oils.


This self-care class is all about comfort, calm, and treating yourself to small daily rituals that support well-being. It’s the perfect mid-winter pick-me-up for anyone who enjoys a little pampering.


Residents: $10 | Non-Residents: $13

 

Mark Your Calendar

 

Learn to Play Crokinole

Second & Fourth Mondays | 3-5 pm

Third Wednesdays | 2-4 pm


Crokinole is commonly referred to as "the most fun game you've never heard of."


Crokinole is a disk-flicking dexterity board game, possibly of Canadian origin, similar to the games of pitchnut and carrum, with elements of shuffleboard and curling reduced to table-top size.


Players take turns shooting discs across the circular playing surface, trying to land their discs in the higher-scoring regions of the board, particularly the recessed center hole of 20 points, while also attempting to knock opposing discs off the board, and into the 'ditch.


Learn to play Crokinole in 15 minutes, then enjoy it forever!

MS Support Group to Host Guest Speaker

Monday, Feb 9 | 4:30-5:30 pm


The Wake Forest/Northern Wake MS Connections Support Group will host a guest speaker, Meg Claudio, Holistic Mind-Body Practitioner and founder of The Healing Well Co., on Monday, Feb. 9, at 4:30 p.m. at the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging.


Ms. Claudio will provide information on gentle tools for calming the nervous system, reducing stress, and cultivating greater ease in day-to-day life that can help with chronic pain and body function issues. She will cover new ways to support physical comfort, improve emotional balance, and gain a renewed sense of agency through the wellness journey with easy-to-use strategies for MS patients and caregivers. This presentation includes simple practices to try during the meeting, followed by a question-and-answer session.

 

The Wake Forest/Northern Wake MS Connections Support Group is affiliated with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and meets the second Monday of each month at 4:30 p.m. at the WFCAA and via Zoom. To join the group, email us.

 

This presentation is intended for individuals with MS and their caregivers.

Valentine’s Day Hot Cocoa Bar & Book Sale

Friday, Feb 13 | 10 am-2 pm


You're invited to join us Friday, Feb. 13, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in our Main Lobby for a Valentine’s Day Hot Cocoa Bar & Book Sale!


Enjoy a FREE hot cocoa bar and shop for books priced $0.50-$1!

Tuesday Karaoke

Tuesdays | 1-2 pm


Join us for Tuesday Karaoke every Tuesday from 1-2 p.m. This FREE program is first come, first serve, members only, no registration required.

Wednesday Bingo

Wednesdays | Noon-1:30 pm


Join us for FREE drop-in bingo games every Wednesday from noon-1:30 p.m.!


This program is first come, first serve, members only, no registration required.

Book Worms Book Club

Second Wednesday/Month | 1-2 pm


Meetings are scheduled on the second Wednesday of each month from 1-2 pm in the WFCAA Library. No registration needed. All members are welcome, regardless of whether they've read the book.


At each session, we share lively discussions about that month's selected book, exchange recommendations for future reads, and enjoy connecting over our shared love of literature. Whether you're a devoted reader or just curious, our club is a great place to meet new friends and discover interesting stories together. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming meetings and hope you'll join us in exploring our 2026 Reading List.


Remaining 2026 Reading List


  • Feb 11: The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki
  • Mar 11: James by James Percival Everett
  • Apr 8: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
  • May 13: Homecoming by Kate Morton
  • Jun 10: The Wright Brothers by David McCullough
  • Jul 8: The Second Home by Christina Clancy
  • Aug 12: The German Wife by Kelly Rimmer
  • Sep 9: The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
  • Oct 14: My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman
  • Nov 4: The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared  by Jonas Jonasson (November we meet on the first Wednesday)
  • Dec 10: The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

Acoustic Jam

Second & Fourth Thursday/Month | 2-4 pm


Hosted by Steve Pfanenstiel, Acoustic Jam is open to all ages and skill levels.


Traditional, Folk, Bluegrass, Country, Rock and Pop music welcome.


All musical instruments are also welcome (guitar, ukulele, voice, banjo, violin, mandolin etc.)


Bring your own instruments, sing along, or just listen!

Friday Social Bridge Club

Fridays | Noon-3 pm


Fight the winter doldrums! Get the kinks out of your Staymans and transfers. 


Join your fellow bridge enthusiasts where welcoming smiles and a lively game of bridge are sure to lift your spirits. 


Start your weekend off on a fun note – play bridge!


For more information or to reserve a seat at the table, call Jane at 919-529-4385.

Tech Assistance Program

Monday-Friday | 3-5 pm


We're expanding our Tech Assistance Program in 2026!


Our free technology assistance program has been a huge success in helping our members get the help they need with phones, computers, tablets and more!


Now, the WFCAA is offering technology assistance Monday through Friday from 3-5 p.m.


Act now to book an hour-long appointment with one of our student volunteers and obtain invaluable assistance with your smartphone, computer, or tablet.


To make an appointment, call 919-554-4111.

February's Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting Canceled


Our February 10 Parkinson’s Support group session is canceled.


Our meetings will resume on Tuesday, March 10, from 1-2:30 p.m.

 

Renaissance Centre Classes

 

The classes shown below are offered in partnership with the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre. The location of each class is included in the description. Classes at the Renaissance Centre are also denoted with the Renaissance Centre logo. For more information about any of the classes shown below, contact Renaissance Centre Arts Coordinator April Cannon at 919-435-9568.

Ballet for Adults 

This adult beginner ballet class is filled with graceful and fluid movements to build flexibility and strength, while enjoying the classic dances. Ballet is characterized by precision of movement and beautiful classical music to enhance this light and joyful class. Put on your ballet slippers and comfortable clothes for this weekly class and meet members of your community! No class March 5. 

Thu | Feb 5-Mar 19| 5:45-6:45 pm | Ages 18+ | $75 

Instructor: Carol Ann Asher

Location: Wake Forest Renaissance Centre

Jazz for Adults 

Come join this beginner jazz class filled with rhythm and musicality, while building strength. This class combines techniques of classical jazz with the current forms of popular dance. Enjoy this fun, weekly class while listening to award winning show tunes. Slide into your comfortable jazz shoes or sneakers and meet new friends in your community! No class March 5. 

Thu | Feb 5-Mar 19 | 7-8 pm | Ages 18+ | $75 

Instructor: Carol Ann Asher 

Location: Wake Forest Renaissance Centre

Lighthouse Glass Fusion 

This three-hour class will teach how to score, cut, grind and lay out glass to create a Hatteras lighthouse. Glass pieces are held in place with glue until fired. Final pieces will be fired in the kiln. Participants will be able to pick these pieces up from the Renaissance Centre approximately one week after the class. 

Sun | Feb 8 | 2-5 pm | Ages 16+ | $70 (materials provided) 

Instructor: Sara Roberts 

Location: WFCAA

Line Dance 2, or Next-Level Line Dance

This class is ideal for dancers who are comfortable with the basics and ready for new challenges. You’ll encounter a wider variety of dances including some with gentle turns, simple tags, and the occasional restart. The class moves at an energetic pace and will include new dance routines to encourage steady progress and variety. Come ready to move, discover new steps, and enjoy every moment!

Tue | Feb 10-Mar 17 | 5:45-6:45 pm | Ages 18+ | $30

Instructor: Cindy Hadden

Location: Wake Forest Renaissance Centre

Line Dance 1, or Line Dance for All Levels

Line Dance for All Levels encourages participants to develop a good understanding of line dance fundamentals. This class continues to emphasize the basics but moves at a faster pace than traditional beginner line dance and with slightly less repetition. Many participants start at this level. Dances may include popular dances performed in social venues (Electric Slide, Cupid Shuffle, etc.), contra line dances (two lines of dancers face each other), and circle dances. In these classes, you will move your body, train your brain, and have fun!

Tue | Feb 10-Mar 17 | 7-8 pm | Ages 18+ | $30

Instructor: Cindy Hadden

Location: Wake Forest Renaissance Centre

 

Meals on Wheels

 

Meals on Wheels of Wake County strives to nourish and enrich the lives of its clients through the services it provides, including Home-Delivered Meals and Friendship Cafes.


The Home-Delivered Meals program helps clients maintain a healthy lifestyle and remain living independently by providing nutritious meals, a weekly safety check, and friendly interaction.

 

To be eligible for a home-delivered meal, you must be:

  • 60 years of age or older
  • Living in Wake County

 

Additional factors contributing to eligibility may include:

  • Being homebound or needing help leaving your home
  • Unable to prepare meals or shop for yourself
  • Recent hospital stay or ongoing health problems
  • Primarily living alone or with a caregiver

 

To apply for home-delivered meals, complete the Application for Services. For more information, call Meals on Wheels of Wake County at 919-833-1749.

Meanwhile, Meals on Wheels also offers a Friendship Café at several locations throughout Wake County, including the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging.


The Friendship Cafe is a space for seniors to eat with their peers and enjoy experiences together. Friendship Cafe provides the much-needed social connections that are proven to improve both health and wellness in seniors. 


Meeting Room E at the WFCAA serves as the Friendship Café Monday-Friday according to the following schedule:


  • 9-10 a.m. - Social hour
  • 10-11 a.m. - Activity hour, including mentally and physically stimulating activities
  • 11-11:20 a.m. - Meals served
  • 11:20 a.m.-Noon - Lunch and fellowship

 

The Friendship Cafe serves anyone who is 60 or older and registers to participate. To register, please visit the Friendship Café Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and noon and ask to speak with Site Managers Ann Casey or Cynthia Wooten. For more information, email Ann Casey or call her at 480-612-1767.

 

Member Spotlight

 

Want to be featured in the Wednesday Wink?

 

Complete and submit our Member Spotlight Form and share a bit about yourself with our fellow members! 

 

Calling All 2D Visual Artists

 

The WFCAA, in partnership with the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, is accepting art submissions for the WFCAA's hallway gallery.


Submissions will be considered on a rolling basis, but the WFCAA is currently accepting artists' submissions for January through March 2026.


To submit your work, please complete our Gallery Submission Form.


Please note the following:


  • Submitting artists must be members of the WFCAA to be eligible for consideration.
  • Artwork must be original work, created solely by the artist.
  • A committee comprised of WFCAA and Renaissance Centre representatives will select up to 10 submissions each quarter to be displayed in the WFCAA hallway gallery.
  • Selected artwork must be framed and/or wired and ready to hang.
  • All artworks will be available for purchase directly through each artist. Once a piece of artwork sells, the artist will replace the sold artwork with a new artwork. This practice will continue until the quarter is complete.


For more information, contact Renaissance Centre Arts Coordinator April Cannon at 919-435-9568.

 

WFCAA Renovation Project

 

Dear Members,


Last year, our Facilities team initiated a renovation project that upon completion will - among other things - add workspace for our employees and volunteers and introduce more comfortable furniture in the SHIIP and pharmacist consultation room.


The initiative will also convert the former body shop to private offices, rearrange our workout equipment throughout the facility to encourage greater use, and install mobile partitions as a means of offering privacy to members who wish to utilize the equipment.


Here's the latest:


  • The office work is complete except for the carpet installation. The new carpet is scheduled to arrive February.
  • Furniture has been installed in the additional office space.
  • Exercise equipment has been relocated to the Multipurpose Room and is available for use. A final decision has not been made on where the equipment will be situated.


Thank you for your patience! Please email Monica if you have any questions.

 

News You Can Use

 

Renaissance Centre to host Open House Feb 15


The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts, 405 S. Brooks St., will host a special “Open House” on Sunday, Feb. 15, from 2-4 p.m.


The occasion will showcase the array of classes and programs scheduled to be offered over the spring and summer at the Renaissance Centre, including Alcohol Inks, Art for Youth, Stained Glass, Pottery, Mixed Media, Summer Stage Camp, and Visual Arts Camps – among many others.


Community members are invited to drop in any time between 2 and 4 p.m. to meet Renaissance Centre staff and class instructors who will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on cultural arts programming for children and adults.

 

For more information, contact Renaissance Centre Arts Coordinator April Cannon at 919-435-9568. 

Renaissance Centre to host two screenings of “The Philadelphia Story” Feb 9


The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St., will host showings of the romantic comedy, “The Philadelphia Story,” on Monday, Feb. 9, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The 2 p.m. screening is free, while the 7 p.m. showing is $5 per person.


You’re invited to celebrate Valentine’s season at the Renaissance Centre with one of Hollywood’s all-time greats! Starring the incomparable trio of Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant, and James Stewart, The Philadelphia Story is a timeless classic and the perfect feel-good escape for a date night, Valentine’s outing, or simply an afternoon treat.


Concessions, including popcorn and soft drinks, will be available for purchase. 

 

Stay Informed

 
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