5-16-2022 9:00pm

Somerset County Office on Aging Celebrates Older Americans Month

Donnella Tilery Editor

SOMERVILLE, NJ – The Somerset County-operated senior wellness centers, managed by the Office on Aging & Disability Services, celebrate Older Americans Month (OAM) in May. This year’s theme is “Age My Way,” which reflects the idea that older Americans can “age in place” and remain independent through planning, participation, accessibility, and making connections with the support of healthcare providers, families, friends and communities such as senior centers.

“We are grateful that our senior centers are offering both in-person and virtual programs, so that all seniors have a chance to participate and socialize according to their personal comfort level,” said County Commissioner Paul M. Drake, liaison to the Office on Aging and Disability Services. “The centers are a vital part of many seniors’ lives for socialization, health and to stay informed and connected.”

Studies show that compared to their peers, senior center participants have higher levels of health, social interaction, and are overall satisfied with their lives according to the National Council on Aging.

To celebrate OAM, the county-operated senior wellness centers are offering both virtual and in-person programs throughout May. Drumming and ukulele band performances are available on the following dates and locations:

May 18, at 11 a.m. Join the Drumming Circle at the Quail Brook Senior Wellness Center when participants learn the basics of hand drumming, which will help participants achieve deep relaxation, lower blood pressure, reduce stress and build communication.
May 25, at 11 a.m. Watch the Full Monty Uke Band Performance at the Senior Wellness Center at Bridgewater when members of the Montgomery Senior Center will perform in the band while participants sing along to feel-good songs.

To view a list of senior center activities in May, visit https://bit.ly/SrCenterInfo2022. To see seniors in action at the seniors centers on YouTube, visit SrCenterReopen.

Congregate Dining

Somerset County-operated senior wellness centers offer a nutritionally balanced lunch on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for a suggested donation of $2.50 for anyone age 60 and above. Menu choices include a hot meat-based or meatless entrée or a cold meat-based or meatless boxed lunch. Participants must make reservations before 10 a.m. on the previous business day.

For more information, visit https://bit.ly/SrCenterInfo2022.

Somerset County-Operated Senior Wellness Centers

County-operated senior wellness centers, managed by the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services, are multi-purpose facilities that offer a variety of activities such as educational programs, health and wellness information and a stimulating social setting. Congregate lunch services and Grab & Go curbside lunch services are also available at all six county-operated senior wellness centers.