In this engaging episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host and estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight welcomes Mike Thompson of the Meridian Senior Center, for a thoughtful conversation about the essential role senior centers play in supporting the well-being of older adults. They spotlight how these community hubs offer far more than just a place to gather—they are lifelines for connection, activity, and purpose.
Mike shares his insights into the Center’s mission to help seniors “live younger,” and explains how programs like chair yoga, Fit and Fall Classes, line dancing, live music, and knitting groups foster social interaction, physical fitness, and mental stimulation. From local outings, casino trips and nature walks to daily lunches in the center’s cafeteria, the Meridian Senior Center is bustling with opportunities designed to keep Idaho’s older adults active, engaged, and nourished—both in body and spirit.
Mark and Mike also explore the challenges of reaching seniors who may be isolated, and how the Center goes the extra mile with newsletters, outreach, transportation, and welcoming tours for new visitors. Whether you’re a senior yourself or someone caring for an aging parent, this episode offers practical insight into how vital community support systems can help seniors maintain independence, build new friendships, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Tune in to learn how the Meridian Senior Center is redefining aging—one dance, one lunch, and one meaningful connection at a time.
Want to learn more, jump over to our blog post, here.
