Knoxville, Tenn. — The number of seniors taking advantage of services offered at Knox County senior centers increased by more than 37,000 in the last five years, an increase of nearly 50 percent. Senior centers are designed to promote recreational, social and educational opportunities for active adults 50 and over.

Senior citizens are one of Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett’s top priorities, and he believes they benefit from the services offered at the centers.

“Senior Director of Community Outreach Hemal Tailor and the staff and volunteers at our centers continue to provide great service to our senior citizens,” Mayor Burchett said. “Operating top-notch centers is one way we are able to show our seniors just how thankful we are for all they do and have done for Knox County.”

In 2012, attendance at Knox County’s senior centers reached nearly 113,000, compared to just over 75,000 in 2008. With the help of staff, volunteers and community partners, the Knox County Senior Services Department continues to increase quality programming at the centers.

“The services we offer seniors in Knox County are of the highest quality,” Tailor said. “Programs at our centers are creative, essential and help make a difference in their lives.”

Knox County has five senior centers located throughout the community. Each center has an experienced staff that provides a variety of recreational programs to seniors.

At the centers, seniors can participate in exercise classes, bingo, arts and crafts, billiards, cards, dominos, quilting, line dancing, swimming, Tai Chi and Wii Bowling.  Senior centers also provide educational programs such as “lunch and learns,” computer classes and guest speaker series.  One center even has a swimming pool.

For more information on Knox County senior centers and the Senior Services Department, click here.