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Senior Centers

Local hubs for social activities, services, and support

What Senior Centers Offer

Social Activities: Exercise classes, arts and crafts, game nights, and group outings.
Health & Wellness: Health screenings, nutrition counseling, and wellness programs.
Educational Programs: Computer classes, financial literacy, and lifelong learning opportunities.
Support Services: Case management, information and referral, and assistance programs.
Nutrition Programs: Congregate meals and nutrition education.

Finding Senior Centers

National Directory

Search for senior centers by location:

Eldercare Locator

Local Resources

• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging
• Check with county social services
• Search online for "[City] Senior Center"
• Ask neighbors or healthcare providers

Membership Benefits

• Most centers have low or no membership fees
• Open to adults 50+ (some 55+)
• Transportation assistance often available
• Volunteer opportunities available

Transportation Services

Getting around safely and independently

Public Transit Discounts

• Reduced fare programs for seniors
• Medicare card may qualify for discounts
• Paratransit services for those with disabilities
• Special senior hours on buses/trains

Community Transportation

• Local senior transportation programs
• Volunteer driver networks
• Ride-sharing services with discounts
• Medical appointment transportation

Mobility Solutions

• Accessible taxi services
• Wheelchair van rentals
• Airport shuttle services
• Long-distance travel assistance

Transportation Planning Tips

• Plan trips during off-peak hours to reduce wait times
• Call ahead to confirm transportation availability
• Keep a list of reliable transportation options
• Consider carpooling with neighbors or joining transportation clubs
• Look into mobility training programs to build confidence
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy

Nutrition & Meal Programs

Access to healthy meals and nutrition support

Meals on Wheels

Home-Delivered Meals: Nutritious meals delivered to your door, typically 5 days a week.
Congregate Meals: Group meals served at senior centers or community sites.
Nutrition Screening: Assessment of nutritional needs and dietary counseling.
Supplemental Foods: Emergency food assistance for those in crisis.

Find Meals on Wheels

Other Nutrition Programs

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Food stamps to purchase groceries. Extra benefits for seniors 60+.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program

Monthly packages of nutritious foods for seniors with low income.

Nutrition Education

Cooking classes, grocery shopping tips, and dietary guidance programs.

Community Gardens

Local programs teaching gardening and providing fresh produce.

Volunteer & Social Programs

Giving back and staying socially connected

Senior Corps Programs

• Foster Grandparents
• Senior Companions
• RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program)
• Provides stipend and benefits

Local Volunteer Opportunities

• Hospital and nursing home visits
• Tutoring and mentoring
• Community gardening
• Food bank assistance

Social Clubs & Groups

• Book clubs and discussion groups
• Exercise and fitness groups
• Arts and crafts circles
• Travel and adventure clubs

Benefits of Volunteering

• Health Benefits: Reduced risk of depression, improved cognitive function
• Social Connection: Build new friendships and expand social network
• Personal Satisfaction: Sense of purpose and accomplishment
• Skill Development: Learn new skills and share life experience
• Community Impact: Make a difference in your community

Emergency Support Services

Help when you need it most

Crisis Intervention

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (24/7 crisis counseling)
Elder Abuse Hotline: 1-800-677-1116 (National Center on Elder Abuse)
Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (or text LOVEIS to 22522)
LGBTQ+ Crisis Line: 1-888-843-4564

Support Organizations

Adult Protective Services

State agencies that investigate reports of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

Crisis Centers

Emergency shelters and support services for seniors experiencing crisis situations.

Financial Crisis Support

Emergency assistance for utilities, food, and other essential needs.