Seventy-six million American children were born between 1945 and 1964, hailed as Baby Boomers. The aging of this generation has me thinking about Broad Ripple from yet another perspective. Retirement can be a blessing or a challenge depending upon health, circumstances that have developed, and attitude. Let's look at some opportunities in the area that may hold special appeal:

• Goodwill has Senior Discount Day on Wednesdays
• Many restaurants have Early Bird Specials and senior portions
• Numerous movie theaters have discounted matinees and senior prices
• Indiana State Fair has a Senior Day
• Humane Society offers companion pets to folks 60 years of age of older with $50 off regular adoption fees
• IndyGo extends half pricing to persons 65 and older
• Some medical insurance plans cover access to fitness gyms
• Ivy Tech offers free tuition to Hoosiers over 60
• Attractions including the Children's Museum and Indianapolis Zoo have senior discounts

To help you plan your future, here are a few other senior resources:

www.seniorjobban.com

www.frugalliving.about.com (Senior Discounts)

www.indycreativeaging.org

www.seniorcitizensguide.com

www.cicoa.org

If you have parents going through the senior years, you may want to check out Joy's House located in Broad Ripple. I pass these colorful building fronts daily and know that good things are happening behind their doors. It's a non-profit, adult day center providing physical, mental, and financial relief for families caring for a loved one. Another Broad Ripple area resource for caregivers is American Village, a senior retirement center with a full spectrum of senior care.

If you are a senior you might just want to have fun in the village by

• Cruising the streets in a vintage car
• Taking an art class at the Art League
• Going to the Comedy Club
• Dining alfresco on patios in the Village
• Exercising in a yoga or Pilates class
• Walking or riding your bike on the Monon Trail
• Attending a group at a church
• Catching up on history with the BR Gazette
• Volunteering with the Broad Ripple Village Association

Whether young or old, there is something for everyone in Broad Ripple. Look around, get out, and engage. There are new experiences, good discounts, surprises, and new acquaintances to be had and enjoyed.