Healthy Aging: Senior Center Perspective

Programs at the Senior Center Affinity Groups: Current affairs, dementia friendly Memory Cafes, men’s club, LGBTQ, knitting, Spanish and French conversation Arts and Music: ceramics, concerts, movies, orchestra, painting, swing band, theater Educational: book clubs, brain health, computers, creative writing, language, trips Fitness: aerobics, chair exercise, meditation, Nia (dance), yoga, Zumba Health: health maintenance clinics and screenings, lectures, seminars, shredding day, providing daily lunch Recreation: billiards, bingo, bridge, canasta, cards, chess, mah jongg, parties Support Groups: bereavement, caregiver, clutter support, low vision, Parkinson’s Transportation Services: taxi vouchers, parking stickers, learning to use Uber/Lyft Social Services: assistance in understanding and assessing services, financial assistance, home care referrals, and more

What does it mean to be part of the age-friendly network? Commit to build a coordinated effort to: Engage cities – plan to be more livable & to tap the potential of older people Adapt structures & services– to be accessible & inclusive of older people and others who have varying needs & capacities Build public awareness – underscore what is good for older people is good for all! 2000 - AARP Livable Communities: An Evaluation Guide 2005 - Age-friendly concept, International Association of Gerontology & Geriatrics in Rio de Janeiro Livable/Age-friendly Cities & Communities Network 2016 Newton Designated an Age Friendly Community

What are the age-friendly domains What are the age-friendly domains? Elements that contribute to an environment for healthy, productive & happy lives (defined by the AARP) Arts & Cultural Opportunities Housing Civic Participation & Employment Outdoors Spaces & Buildings Community Health Services Respect & Social Inclusion Communication & Information Social Participation Educational Opportunities Transportation Presentation by Jayne and Marion

Partnership with the Library Coffee Club: Life in the Fastlane (social group for seniors 55+) You and Your Financial Future Newton Story Corps (Veteran’s record their stories) Sponsor guest speakers on aging issues Sponsor music programs, author talks, and more

Caregiving Support