Naples Senior Center continues to serve

Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, President/ CEO

As I sit here in my office, on Sept. 1, 2020, writing my article for the October issue of the Federation Star, I, like many of us, simply cannot believe that our doors still remained closed to on-site programming. I recall when we closed our doors in March, saying with great naiveté, that we would re-evaluate in two weeks. I would like to share with you what has been happening at Naples Senior Center since we pivoted to operate in the world of COVID-19.

Naples Senior Center is fully operational in the virtual world. We offer a virtual dementia group every day, with many of the same activities that were offered on-site. Brain fitness, reminiscence and music therapy enable participants to connect with one another during our theme-based programs. Caregivers meet weekly with a clinician, and broader caregiver support programs are in the works.

The Senior Center adds virtual group activities each week. We offer wellness and fitness programs, travelogues, art and music, discussion groups, and believe it or not, line dancing! Because our programs do not require physical presence, we now have seniors participating throughout the United States, and even in Canada. So, in a sense we have become “international!”

This past week, we offered eight different programs, with an attendance of 70 seniors. Solid relationships have been formed as our geriatric case managers call their clients weekly and volunteers make calls to members every day. Since food insecurity is a real issue, we continue to deliver food pantry staples as well as a hot meal to approximately 50 seniors each week.

After working from home for many months, staff is now back in the office on a full-time schedule. We operate with an abundance of safety features in place, following, and at times exceeding, CDC guidelines.

Virtual Evening for Better Tomorrows

Please “save the date” for our Virtual Evening for Better Tomorrows…scheduled for Jan. 9, 2021 at 7 p.m. in the comfort of your own home. We are planning an exciting and fun experience, with entertainment provided by the one and only Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact me for more information.

While our facility is closed to members and clients, Naples Senior Center will continue to operate in the virtual world. In no way does this replace the importance of the face-to-face social contact, but it does help those we serve know that we care and are here to assist them in any way we can during these challenging times.

Please stay safe, and stay well, as we all look forward to better times ahead.