Join Dr. Scott as he talks with Joan Rial from the Dickson Senior Activity Center about how the center is transforming lives through movement, community, and support. Discover inspiring testimonials from seniors whose health, independence, and sense of purpose have been renewed through the center’s programs. Learn how this vibrant community resource is helping Dickson’s seniors stay active, connected, and thriving.
Dr. Scott: Today I want to welcome Joan Rial. She is with the Dickson County Senior Center. Joan, a little bit about our podcast — we’re trying to bring more information about health, staying active, and staying well to our community. I have so many patients who come into the senior center, and we talk about it all the time. So I’d love for you to share how you got involved. I know the center has changed locations and grown so much. Could you walk us through the whole story?
Joan Rial: I’d love to. First of all, we’re the City of Dickson Senior Activity Center — we added “Activity” to our name because that’s what we do! We were over on Walnut Street in a little 6,000-square-foot building, and now we’re in a 26,000-square-foot building that’s full all the time. It’s amazing. We’ve tripled our attendance. We’ve been in this building for about two and a half years, and we have 250 to 280 people coming through every day. I just ran the numbers: over 50,000 people have come through our doors this year.
Dr. Scott: That’s incredible. And how expensive is it for seniors to come?
Joan Rial: It’s so pricey that everything is free! The city pays for it with local sales tax. We’re in the process of hiring a cook, and we’ll have homemade lunches starting again soon for just $5, including tea. It’s such a wonderful resource for seniors.
Dr. Scott: It’s amazing how much Dickson has grown and how well it’s taking care of its citizens with things like the splashpad and the senior center. I’ve been here off and on for nearly 20 years, and it’s great to see.
Joan Rial: Yes, and a study showed the population of seniors in Dickson is what’s really growing. So the need for a senior center has never been greater.
Dr. Scott: How did you personally get involved with the senior activity center?
Joan Rial: I’ve been here about eight and a half years. Mayor Wise, who I’ve known for a long time, asked me if I’d be interested, and I jumped at the opportunity. It’s exactly what I love to do. Before this, I was the director at the Methodist Church preschool. I’ve always worked with either the very young or the elderly.
Dr. Scott: What type of classes and services do you offer at the senior center?
Joan Rial: We focus on keeping seniors moving. COVID was tough on everyone, but especially seniors. Half of our building is dedicated to exercise classes and equipment; the other half is the dining room and activities like bingo. Bingo runs twice a week. Even if some don’t exercise, they’re getting out, socializing, and having fun. And yes, we have Hershey bars to start the day!
Dr. Scott: Social interaction is so important. Isolation during COVID was devastating. I think it affected seniors even more.
Joan Rial: Absolutely. Losing a spouse after decades of marriage can be overwhelming. But once we get people to come in, they start meeting others and making friends. We even started collecting written testimonials. One of our teachers, Felling Trevathan, who teaches chair yoga, suggested it after someone told her the center had saved their life. Now we have pages of stories from members about how much the center has helped them.
Dr. Scott: That’s incredible. Can you share some of those stories?
Joan Rial: Of course! One member wrote that after retiring, they felt lost, but at the center, they made new friends and reversed their osteoporosis thanks to exercise classes. Another shared how, after losing a spouse of 52 years, they found a new sense of purpose at the center.
Dr. Scott: That’s amazing. It’s clear the center does far more than just provide activities — it changes lives.
Joan Rial: Yes. The purpose is to keep moving, keep the brain and body engaged, and stay connected. We have everything from walking tracks and chair yoga to line dancing and cardio drumming. And our new dementia support group, which started recently, provides much-needed help for caregivers and families. There’s nothing else like it in Dickson County.
Dr. Scott: What are your hours and who can join?
Joan Rial: We’re open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., for anyone 55 and older. Even if you live outside the county, you’re welcome. We’re supported by local sales tax, so shopping local supports us.
Dr. Scott: How can people stay updated on activities?
Joan Rial: We release a newsletter every month with a full schedule of classes and events. It’s available on the City of Dickson website, our Dickson Senior Activity Center Facebook page, or you can pick it up in person.
Dr. Scott: Joan, thank you so much for sharing this with us. The work you’re doing is changing lives.
Joan Rial: Thank you for having me. And remember, when you turn 55, you can come join us!
Dr. Scott: I’ll keep that in mind. Thanks again.
Narrator: You’ve been listening to Beyond the Adjustment, where we have conversations with other health-minded professionals to create a healthier community.