Senior Centers

FAQs

• Who can attend the senior center?

  Programs and activities are open to adults 60 years of age or older. According to Older American Act regulations, an individual shall be eligible for congregate nutrition services if the individual:

  • Is aged 60 or older;
  • Is the spouse of an individual ages 60 or older; or
  • Has a disability and resides at home with the eligible older individual

  The AAAIL may, in accordance with 42 U.S.C. 3030G-21(2)(H),(I), provide a congregate meal to:

  • A volunteer providing services during meal hours; or
  • An individual under 60 who;
    • Has a disability; and
    • Resides in a housing facility primarily occupied by older individuals at which congregation nutrition services are provided

• Who is eligible for home delivered meals from the senior center?

  According to the Older American Act regulations:

  An individual shall be eligible for home delivered meals and home delivered meals and home delivered nutrition services if the individual:

  • Is a person aged 60 or over, or the spouse of a person aged 60 or over;
  • Is unable to attend a congregate site because of illness or incapacitating disability; and
  • Does not have a person in the home able to prepare a nutritious meal on a regular basis

  OR

  • Is under age 60
  • Has a disability
  • Resides with a homebound individual aged 60 or over

• What time is lunch served at the senior center?

  Lunch is served from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM each operational day at the senior center sites located around the Gateway region (Bath, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, and Rowan Counties).

• Is there a cost to join?

  No! Services are provided at no cost; however, there is a $1.00 suggested donation for meals and transportation services.

• Is paperwork involved in order to attend?

  Yes. Initial enrollment paperwork is required, followed by a brief yearly update. Proof of age must be provided. The process is simple and straightforward; only federally and state required forms and questions are included. Paperwork typically takes about 15 minutes to complete, and our senior center staff will assist you every step of the way.

• Do I need to register in advance for meals?

  Nope! Registration may be required for some activities at the site, but it is not required for meals.

• Can I bring a guest?

  Yes, guests are welcome to attend activities. *Some programs may have age or space restrictions.

• Is the senior center accessible to individuals with disabilities?

  Yes, all GADD-operated senior center sites are ADA-compliant and accessible to individuals with mobility devices.

• Can I bring my pet with me?

  No, only service animals are permitted within the senior center sites.

• How do I stay updated on programs and events?

  Monthly calendars, newsletters, and social media updates are available. Follow Gateway Area Development District on social media or contact your local senior center for more information on how to stay informed!

• Can I take a meal to someone who is not with me?

  No. GADD policy prohibits taking a meal to someone who is not physically present at the site during serving time.

• Can I have an extra meal?

  If there is food left over after everyone has been served, and it is after 12:00 PM, it is at the discretion of the senior center staff whether extra meals will be served.

• What kind of activities are offered at the senior center?

  To name a few:

  • Daily congregate meals & nutrition programs
  • Exercise & wellness classes
  • Arts, crafts, & hobby groups
  • Educational presentations
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Socialization & games

• Does the senior center provide transportation?

  Yes, our senior centers offer transportation services for seniors who need assistance getting to and from the site. Contact your respective county’s senior center for more information and eligibility requirements. *Transportation services vary by county and are dependent upon staffing levels.

• What if I need help with benefits or services?

  Our senior center staff can help connect you with services, such as case management, benefits counseling, and referral services for healthcare, housing, and social support.