6.7. SR 07-10-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Elk River Senior Center Expansion Benefits What are the current issues involved in future planning for "senior centers" and ho\v can they be addressed \vith an expanded center at a ne\v location? 1. Priority Issue #1 Attracting Baby Boomers To attract the new generation of baby boomers, senior centers need to rethink their mission and address how the wants and needs of the boomers differ from the wants and needs of the current older generation, and how the generations can successfully co-exist. The viability of senior centers depends on their ability to adapt and change to meet diverse needs of older adults ages 50-100, between and within generations. A Senior Center expansion would enable the community to market the center to potential participants with an updated atmosphere, while retaining a mix of programs and activities enjoyed by current members. 2 Priority Issue #2 Redefine the Image of Senior Centers Studies indicate that the current perception of senior centers is that they are for frail, dependent older people. Center participants are generally the older segment of the over-60 population. Centers are unattractive, too small, and/or furnishings and decor are dated. Program choices are limited by space and programs are often targeted to less active people. The name "Senior Center" discourages participation by those who do not like to be called "seniors." A Senior Center expansion would allow the community to promote the center as an information and resource center. An expanded center would be attractive, accessible and allow for increased quality and quantity of activities. The center can also serve as a resource for the entire community for information on aging issues, including caregivers and the "sandwich generation". 3 Priority Issue #3 Identity as a City Department For years some of the community has thought that the senior center is either part of Guardian Angels or non-existent. One of our main goals has always been to educate the community that the senior center is part of the city, and partners with Guardian Angels. Not all community members feel comfortable participating at the current location of the center for many reasons. Some feel this is the nursing home, others feel they are not welcome (by tenants), lack of parking and the common mis- conception that they are not "old enough" are all barriers to participation. ) By expanding our location we can create our own image and identity as a vital part of the city. This image may include the opportunity to educate the community about normal aging and help combat ageism by being open to intergenerational activities within the center and the community. Often senior centers are detached