Senior Centers

Why Senior Centers Are Important

You may have certain elements of life already in place. There’s also something to be said for the reliability of a good routine. However, the MacArthur Foundation’s Successful Aging Study indicates that 70 percent of how we age is influenced by our lifestyle choices. Genes determine the remaining 30 percent.

Keeping the brain and body vibrant through fresh associations and new activities is something we all can control. Many seniors don’t actually consider themselves to be “senior” enough to go to a senior center for fear there will a bunch of, well, “old” people there. And with “old” people comes complaints about lumbago, and five types of Jell-o with fruit in it.

However, most senior centers these days understand that people have different needs, and cater to a host of interests and welcome suggestions from visitors. Whether you’re curious about yoga, eager to attend a seminar on estate planning, or gathering friends together to take part in a lifelong learning program, remember: taking charge of your experiences at a senior center will only enhance your mental, emotional, and physical health.

What to Expect

Senior centers don’t follow a standardized template. The general framework is based upon providing attendees with stimulating activities, a hot healthy meal, and a chance to enjoy laughter and conversation.

Center Features and Services

• Arts and crafts
• Games
• Writing and literature programs
• Dancing
• Computer classes
• Travel and guest lectures
• Day trip opportunities
• Money management courses
• Tax assistance
• Cultural events
• Exercise and nutrition programs
• Family participation activities
• Guest musical performances

In addition, there are resources and advisors for other senior services, such as elder care, legal assistance, and health checkups.

Important Points to Remember

There will be a cost for some things. Certain activities and sometimes meals require a payment, which is generally pretty reasonable for individuals managing a set income.

There’s a diverse population. While many find meeting new people to be the main attraction of attending a center, others may be put out by certain personalities. Hopefully there will be enough space for everyone to enjoy his or her time spent at the location.

The staff is predominately volunteer. Since most centers operate from local, state, and federal funding, the energy of volunteers helps keep things running smoothly. Armed with this information, consider volunteering at a center to share an interest of your own.

How to Find a Senior Center

First, try the phone book. Most senior centers for surrounding communities are listed under “Senior Citizens’ Service Organizations”.

If you’re familiar with the city or county website for your community, services for seniors are often listed there as well. Some more progressive senior centers have an individual website.

Here’s an example of what a city or county website page may feature.

This website is for a senior center in New York City. This comprehensive site demonstrates the many services and activities often found at a senior center. Obviously, there’s an advantage to being in a major metropolitan area with a lot of resources, but many centers offer what this one does, just on a smaller scale.

Don’t Be Shy

Consider finding friends and activities at a senior center similar to networking for business or building a fellowship at church: just stick your hand out and say hello. You may have to do this a number of times at various centers in your area, but it’s the only way to find new people with like interests. Talk a friend into making a day of visiting locations, or just venture out on your own.

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