Based on the National Council On Aging research shows that compared with their peers, senior center participants have higher levels of health, social interaction, and life satisfaction. Here are 3 possible reasons why.
1. Fitness centers along with health & wellness Classes.
Health and fitness are where senior centers have really expanded in recent years. In addition to traditional programs like aerobics, Zumba, yoga, and Tai Chi, many senior centers now offer evidence-based health programs that have been scientifically proven to make people healthier.
We also offer regularly scheduled blood pressure and glucose screenings that can replace tedious trips to a medical clinic for those simple procedures
2. Delicious, Well Balance, Nutritious Meals
Every one of our centers provide at least 1 healthy, nutritious, well balance meal a day for for members. Each meal covers the four main food groups and a healthy beverage to nourish the body and keep them going. All meals are fresh and cooked on site at our centers to ensure freshness. Meal plans are reviewed by a licensed nutritionist and complies with NYS Child and Adult Care Food Program to ensure members are receiving the healthiest tasty food. Grab and go meals are available for seniors who may not (or can not ) eat in our local cafeterias.
3. Keeping Connected During Hard Times
According to NCOA
One in six seniors living alone in the United States faces physical, cultural, and/or geographical barriers that isolate them from their peers and communities. This isolation can prevent them from receiving benefits and services that can improve their economic security and their ability to live healthy, independent lives. Fortunately, senior centers are here to help.
To combat this our all our clubs participate in Telephone reassurance programs. This is where staff/volunteers make regular (sometimes daily) phone calls to homebound seniors—are a commonly cited form of connection with isolated populations. In the height of the COVID -19 pandemic our center made over 1,500 calls daily to NYC older adult residents. Seeing if they are ok, and assisting in connecting them with other community resources to cater to any needs they my have.
We also have implemented our virtual senior center conducted weekdays on zoom, bringing home all the centers recreational, educational and social activities right to their homes helping them to feel a little less isolated and a lot more included.
Like National Council On Aging wrote:
Senior centers are not what they used to be. Today’s senior center is a vibrant, action-packed combination of local fitness center, job and volunteering headquarters, transportation hub, and tasty dining locale. Here are a few things things you might discover about a senior center in your community.
For more information on our centers please contact us at (718) 638 - 6910 or visit www.fortgreenecouncil.org.
