Sep 13 2008
National Senior Center Month
September is National Senior Center Month, acknowledging the importance of the local Senior Centers as they evolve to reflect a more empowered vision of aging.
Yes, this generation of retired folks that we call “the Matures,” and the next generation, we “Boomers,” expect much from our senior years, and a Senior Center can be a valuable resource.
We want to remain active, whether it is sticking with our career, volunteering, working part-time, or participating in social activities with our families and friends.
Senior Centers offer us connections–to career and volunteer opportunities, access to benefits and resources, information and tools to manage health and finances. The goal oftentimes is to remain in our own homes–and that is good.
Senior Centers can be an important–even vital–link to local health organizations, assistance agencies and government officials. Senior Centers can be social HOTSPOTS, with Tai Chi and yoga classes, dances and dance lessons, pancake breakfasts and Sunday buffets, as well as health screenings for cholesterol, osteoporosis, blood pressure, vision and hearing tests, and sometimes seminars on fall prevention and home safety.
Last weekend was National Grandparents Day, and we also observed the anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy just a couple of days ago. I didn’t want September to go by without a mention of this important national recognition of Senior Centers. More information is also available at the National Institute of Senior Centers webpages at the National Council on Aging’s main website.
I think it is good to acknowledge centers and other activity groups for our Seniors who deserve more respect and kindness. We have a lot to learn from our Senior citizens from both their accomplishments and their shortcomings. I like your blog a lot.