Senior Center Month: Stanford Settlement

A Sacramento County partner is leading the way in caring for older adults in our community. Standford Settlement Neighborhood Center, a private nonprofit organization, serves people of all ages in the County. Stanford Settlement Neighborhood Center has been serving the region for almost 90 years. For National Senior Center Month, which is recognized in September, Sacramento County is highlighting Standford Settlement's Senior Center Program. The program is designed to empower older adults and help them live independently.

"We ensure seniors do not become homeless through creativity, advocacy and support. Through home visits, conversations with tenants and landlords, and concrete assistance with moving tasks, we help seniors navigate stressful housing situations," said Stanford Settlement Neighborhood Center Executive Director Julie Rhoten.

The five key areas Stanford Settlement assists older adults with are transportation, nutrition, wellness activities, socialization and supportive services. The center provides daily rides to the Senior Center and to medical appointments. Stanford Settlement partners with Meals on Wheels Sacramento County to deliver daily meals to older adults. The center offers programs that promote healthy aging, including exercise groups, cooking classes and gardening. The center also talks to older adults about their individual needs to see how they can help assist or point them to the right resources for concerns with safety, food insecurity and housing insecurity.

"When the situation is complex, we rely upon our colleagues at Sacramento County's Senior and Adult Services division to help us brainstorm or connect us with resources that help seniors stay housed," said Julie.

Julie said the Senior Center Program is not just about helping older adults, it is also about bringing different generations together and offering everyone a seat at the table. Everyone who becomes part of the Senior Center Program is encouraged to participate in shaping what the center offers by speaking up through its steering committee.

"Hospitality is one of our core agency values, which is expressed through providing transportation, sharing a meal and establishing relationships," said Julie.