Annually observed in September, National Senior Center Month serves as an opportunity to raise awareness of senior centers across the country and highlight their critical role in promoting the health and well-being of local communities. In addition to offering older persons endless hours of support and encouragement, senior centers have become essential to the provision of healthcare in our communities by vaccinating, educating the public about vaccines, and guiding COVID-19 prevention.
The more than 11,000 senior centers located in towns and neighborhoods around the nation give residents access to opportunities, information, and assistance to enhance their quality of life as they age. They provide an environment where senior citizens can explore their individual passions, skills, and goals.
From their inception in the 1940s until their inclusion in the Older Americans Act of 1973, senior centers have undergone significant transformations that continue to this day. However, the goal remains the same: to be the reliable, locally based resource in the community that helps people find the opportunities, resources, and activities they require to age successfully.
Educate your elected officials! It’s important that Congress understand how older adults and caregivers are being affected by funding and policy decisions. Help raise awareness about how public dollars support services and benefits for older adults, caregivers, family members, and the community at large.
To highlight the impact and value that senior centers bring to the community, visit your local center, get involved, and participate or plan events and activities during Senior Center Month.
Senior centers collaborate with neighborhood partners to offer social engagement, mobility, nourishment, economic security, health, and creativity in a lively and sociable setting.