(THREE RIVERS) - The St. Joseph County Commission on Aging will begin offering group exercise classes at both its enrichment centers this Wednesday, January 20, 2021.

Class size is limited so seniors must call the COA to register. Masks are required at all times in the centers and there will be markings on the floors and other signage to help ensure social distancing. The phone number to reach the COA is 269-279-8083.

Class offerings will start out slowly for the last few weeks of January with the goal of offering more classes beginning February 1. A list of what is being offered can be found on the COA website. LINKA. You can also find the list on the COA Facebook page.

At this time the COA will not be able to offer lunch at the centers. However, the COA is offering lunches to go. If you would like a lunch to go, please call the COA 48 hours in advance to place your order. A menu is available on the COA website.

COA Executive Director Pamela Riley says they are concerned about their seniors and those experiencing feelings of loneliness and isolation. She says they continue to monitor the number of COVID cases in our region and are working closely with our local health department so that the COA can safely offer an opportunity for seniors to socialize and exercise without risk to their health and well-being.

The COA will continue to offer exercise classes and crafts on its Facebook page and on its YouTube channel for seniors who do not feel comfortable coming to the centers or cannot participate because a class or activity is full. If any senior needs help getting on to Facebook or YouTube, please call the COA and someone from their Life Enrichment team will be happy to help.