Senior Center Practices

In the states and territories senior centers offer older Americans a comfortable place to participate in activities, socialize with their peers, and share a meal. Senior centers, supported by funding from various sources including the State Unit on Aging, are often coordinated by Area Agencies on Aging. Although all states have senior centers, they vary greatly. Several states and territories are developing statewide standards for their senior centers. Implementation of state standards ensures that each senior center offers appropriate and consistent services. Senior center standards often regulate hours of operation, set forth requirements for nutrition programs, provide for handicap accessibility, and prescribe social, health and wellness activities.