Questionnaire Seeks Seniors’ Thoughts

 

By Kendra Bobowick

Purpose, support, independence, encouragement. All are part of the Newtown Senior Center’s mission.

“When you get older, you get lonely,” said center Director Marilyn Place.

Her answer? “Get them out of the house, get them involved.”

Residents who choose to visit the center at 14 Riverside Road will find more than they may expect. “The center is a connection to other organizations and groups,” she said. Despite the opportunities, she senses residents’ hesitation. “People are leery; maybe after 40 years of being married [they’re alone] they don’t know what to do…”

Ms Place has some of the answers, but hopes to better adapt to the needs of Newtown’s growing senior population. Noting the increasing enrollment and concerned about future needs, Ms Place has created a questionnaire. The single-page flyer has recently appeared in the senior newsletter, which is mailed to roughly 2,200 residents. “We’re trying to get tapped into their needs,” she said.

Like Commission on Aging member John Aurelia, she notes that 4,800 seniors are in the community, but the center’s space is limited. With the help of a small addition to the center, which will open up activity and storage space, Ms Place hopes to welcome a higher enrollment. She also wants the scheduled activities to meet interests.

The questionnaire states, “The Senior Center is expanding to accommodate your needs. What do you want, what do you need?” The flyer asks seniors if they currently attend the center, and how many times a week.

Above a list of roughly 35 pastimes, hobbies, or interests the flyer requests, “Check off activities you are interested in.” Arts and crafts, exercise, and poker may appeal to some seniors while others would prefer to play cards, enjoy a movie, paint, or join a book discussion. Billiards or bocce may draw a crowd, or signing up for a computer class, a trip, or learning to knit.

“What is the best time of day to offer activities?” “Do you ride the SweetHART bus?” After answering these and several other inquiries, completed flyers can be mailed or delivered to the Senior Center.

On the counter in the town clerk’s office is a stack of flyers, which are also found in the newsletter or at the center. Ms Place also encourages seniors to write to the center and express their ideas.