Wednesday, September 10, 2025
September is a perfect time to spotlight two vital themes: National Senior Center Month and Healthy Aging Month. Both emphasize the importance of social connections, purposeful activity, and inclusion in supporting the well-being of older adults.
The Power of Connection, and a Real Voice
Senior centers are hubs of activity, companionship, and meaning. Many older adults feel their Senior Center is their second home and family. Consider what Rosalind shared about her experience at a Kane County senior center:
“Oh I love it. It gets seniors out of the house, where they have somewhere to go. They meet different people, and we play so many different games like Pokeno, Bingo and Bunco. We have dance parties and dance classes. We have aerobics. I mean you just can’t beat it! It keeps me active every day of the week, and I find so many connections here.”
Her enthusiasm shines a bright light on how social programming fosters friendship, movement, joy, and, ultimately, healthy aging.
Why This Matters for Healthy Aging
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Social engagement helps reduce loneliness, lifts moods and enhances cognition.
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Movement, whether dancing, games, or exercise, boosts physical health and mobility.
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Purpose and belonging, offered through shared experiences and regular gatherings, promote emotional resilience.
Senior Centers: A Hub of Services and Support
While social connection is at the heart of every senior center, they also provide a wide range of vital services. From caregiver assistance, information and referral, and Medicare counseling to transportation support, emergency services, and even home repair resources, senior centers are a lifeline for older adults and their families. They also offer opportunities for recreation, health education, and lifelong learning, making them a trusted, go-to place for connection and support at every stage of aging.
Keeping the Momentum All Year: Community Starts with Connection
Celebrating Senior Center Month and Healthy Aging Month is just the beginning. Through the Community Starts with Connection initiative, AgeGuide is working with our region’s health departments and funded partners to keep the focus on the vital role social connections play in supporting physical and mental health all year long.
To learn more about connection opportunities in your area, contact AgeGuide at (630) 293-5990, and we will connect you with your local senior center or community organization.
