Q. What is a senior center?
A. The National Council on Aging states that "a senior center is a community focal point where older adults come together for service and activities." Baltimore County Department of Aging operates 19 senior centers in county-owned or rented facilities in communities throughout the county. Individuals come to centers for services, activities, volunteer opportunities, information and more. As a community focal point, senior adults, family members and caregivers can access information and services at one location.
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Q. Where is my closest senior center?
A. Baltimore County operates 19 senior centers. Most of them are nationally accredited, and they are located in communities throughout the county. For addresses and directions, call Baltimore County Department of Aging's Senior Information and Assistance Office at 410-887-2594 or go to the list of senior centers.
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Q. Who can participate at the senior centers?
A. Membership in Baltimore County Department of Aging Senior Centers is open to Baltimore County residents age 60 and over and their spouses. Non-county residents and those under 60 years of age are eligible to participate on a space available basis.
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Q. What does it cost to join a senior center?
A. Membership in Baltimore County Department of Aging Senior Centers is free of charge. However, specific classes or activities an individual may elect to participate in may have a registration and/or material fees.
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Q. What can I do at my local senior center?
A. Individuals can attend a senior center to access services, gather information, participate in classes and activities, have a health screening, attend a lecture, have lunch or volunteer. Several senior centers have fittness centers as well as computer labs.
Senior Information and Assistance is available on site at all centers by appointment and will provide individuals with help in filing for benefits, accessing other services or general information. Additionally, such services as Income Tax Assistance, and Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy are also available through the local center.
For those looking to get physical, all levels of activity are provided from beginners level seated exercise to advanced cardiovascular activities such as cycling and step aerobics. Various dance classes such as line dancing and ballroom dancing, and team sports like softball and volleyball are also popular. The new state of the art fitness centers have a variety of fitness machines for use by participants.
For those wanting to work with their hands, painting, ceramics, woodcarving, knitting, and stained glass are just a few of the varied activities available.
Continuing education opportunities abound in computers, psychology, history, foreign languages, cultural exchanges, and study of world religions to name a few.
Health screening and educational seminars are scheduled regularly at each center and can include mammography, vision screening, osteoporosis screening, prostate screening, blood pressure screening, etc. Nutritional seminars and cooking demonstration are also held.
Congregate meals are available weekdays through the Federally funded "Eating Together Program." Those interested in participating receive a nutritionally balanced meal and the opportunity to eat with friends. There is no charge; however, anonymous contributions are requested. Advanced reservations are required.
Volunteer opportunities exist within the center and in the community for those interested in sharing skills or interests. Receptionists, instructors, friendly visitors, and computer operators are just a few of the many opportunities available for those interested in sharing skills.
Opportunities are numerous and the possibilities are limitless at the local center. Individuals with a special interest are encouraged to share it with the Center Director who is always looking for new and innovative program ideas. Each center has a varied menu of activities with special events changing regularly and course offerings changing quarterly. Call the local senior center to find out what's happening.
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Revised May 15, 2006
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