Meeting the Needs of Evolving and Growing Elder Population: A Framework for Life-Long Learning and Program Development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14738/assrj.61.5925Abstract
Background: The growing population of older adults will require specialized, adaptable and scalable services in order to maintain a quality of life. We offer an intergenerational and lifelong long learning model and provide guidelines for developing senior programming with relevance, accessibility and sustainability. Purpose: The aim of this work is to provide a framework for expanding and/or studying senior services. We also report on a preliminary needs assessment survey of older adults for the senior centers in their community. Method: A needs assessment questionnaire was developed and distributed to 56 men and women aged 50+ attending senior and/or community activities. Results: The vast majority (82%) were satisfied with the activities and services offered by their local senior or community center and most (74%) reported the cost was acceptable. Requested new activities included all-ages events, ukulele, scrap-booking, arts, and book clubs. Discussion: Centers looking to improve or increase senior programs should assess their local elders interests and needs. Delivering more varied activities to seniors could lead to numerous benefits, however, a number of real-world obstacles limit expanding senior services without increased cost. We recommend “senior centers” consider adding peer-mentors, and branching out to other ages, especially college students who have relevent skills and may need to volunteer for coursework or to explore career options.
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
License
Authors wishing to include figures, tables, or text passages that have already been published elsewhere are required to obtain permission from the copyright owner(s) for both the print and online format and to include evidence that such permission has been granted when submitting their papers. Any material received without such evidence will be assumed to originate from the authors.