This week, temperatures are approaching 100 degrees.
The hot weather has a profound effect on the older population.
“The heat is going to definitely be, hard on them,” says Kay Bonzer, a senior.
“It gets too hot outside. I can’t function in the heat,” says Vicki Fallis, another senior. "It just drains me instantly. I don't do well with that at all."
The Washoe County Senior Center offers many activities to beat the heat.
Marie Blank says her favorite way to stay cool is organizing bingo three days a week.
“We have bingo Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 12:30 to 2:30,” she says. “Anybody can come in and play. we have prizes for winners. so that way they don't feel like they're playing for nothing."
There’s also billiards, poker, dance classes, and more.
Bonzer says she occasionally plays bean bag baseball in the afternoon.
But first, she donates her time.
“I help out with the lunches,” she says, “and I also serve the soup every once in a while, when we're short."
The Senior Center serves hot lunches Monday through Friday, 11:15 to 12:30. Washoe County Senior Services also serves lunch at various locations around Reno-Sparks.
Vicki Fallis sings, dances, and plays ukulele at the senior center. Her personal favorite activity: last month's talent contest.
“Everybody really liked when i did Pink Floyd and I did the high screaming,” she says.
Through the various activities, seniors say they love the chance to make friends and get out of the sun.
“That's why we have so many seniors in here today, because of the heat,” Bonzer says.
“It's nice here. i made a lot of friends here,” Fallis says.
No air conditioning at home? No problem! Folks 60 and up can stop by the Senior Center front desk for a free box fan between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. You can also donate new box fans. The Fan Drive runs through September 4th.
First-time visitors will have to register in-person at the Senior Center, at 1155 East 9th Street.
Click here for a list of activities and lunch menus at the Senior Center.
