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FAQs

Here's a sampling of the questions we are asked by people new to the Center. If your question is not answered below, we are happy to answer your question directly by phone (617-796-1660) or e-mail.

Questions about the Newton Senior CenterFrequently Asked Questions

Whom do we consider to be a senior?

Our joke answer is that "we don't check I.D.'s". But seriously we target our programs to those over 50 years of age. We develop programs to meet the needs and address the interests of the older adult population of Newton. Some people who attend the Center are younger than 55. All are welcome! If there's a program that interests you, join us if there's room.

How do you get to the Newton Senior Center?

Directions to the Center are on this web site. We also provide transportation services to the Center for those who have no other way of getting here. Participants needing transportation are asked to call by 4:00 p.m. the day before they'd like to come. Your request is then put into the schedule and one of our van drivers will pick you up. We request a two-dollar voucher donation. Transportation Information.

What are the Center's operating hours?

We are open M-F 8:30-4:00. Please keep your eye on the calendar for special events held outside our normal operating hours.

What's for Lunch?

Our Monday to Friday entrees can be found on the Calendar of this web site. The entrée menu can also be found in the calendar section of our monthly newsletter Coming of Age . For more information, check out Let's Eat!

What do I have to do to join The Newton Senior Center? Is there a membership? There is no membership. All you have to do to "join" is drop in and sign in. See Our Programs for a listing of programs and specifics about fees and/or donations. Although there is no formal process to "join" the Center we do strongly encourage anyone who is thinking about participating at the Center to meet with a Joanne Fisher, Program Coordinator or another staff person. Experience shows that your time at the Center is better if you let the staff orient you to the building and give you a few helpful hints.

Do I have to be a Newton resident to participate at the Center?

No, you do not have to be a Newton resident. Non-Newton residents are welcome to participate as long as we can accommodate any Newton resident wishing to participate as well. Many of the volunteers at the center are from other towns. We encourage all to participate.

Will I fit in at the Center? What type of person participates?

People from all walks of life, ethnic backgrounds, income levels, educational backgrounds participate in a huge variety of general life experiences at the Center. We do require that those who attend the Center and its programs do so independently. Some people spend the whole day at the Center, some drop in for specific programs and others use it in whatever combination fits their schedule. If you need additional assistance, Center staff can guide you to other programs.

What programs do you offer at the Center that may be of interest to me?

Take a look at Our Programs; we are pretty sure something there will catch your eye. But if not, contact us through e-mail or phone or drop in and let us know what interests you. Our experience is that if you have an interest in something, chances are others will too. We'll try most any program idea you're willing to suggest.

Who funds the Newton Senior Center?

The Center is funded by an array of public funds and private contributions. We receive city, state, and federal funds, as well as contributions of all sizes from individuals, corporations and foundations. The Senior Citizen Fund of Newton is a private, not-for-profit organization which generously raises and distributes private funds to support the Newton Senior Center and transportation for seniors. If you want more information, please contact Jayne Colino at 617-796-1671 or by e-mail.

Questions about Other Senior Services

How can I find information on housing options for Newton Seniors?

See Resources and Links for a listing of the various housing options available in Newton or contact Kathy Laufer, Clinical Social Worker at 617-796-1663 or email.

Where can I find home-based services like homemakers and home health aides?

Home care services may be obtained from private agencies or through Springwell, the local Aging Services Access Point/ Home Care Corporation (617-926-4100). Springwell has income and "tasks of daily living" criteria which must be met. The Newton Dept. of Senior Services maintains a list of private agencies. If you are not sure, please call senior services (617-796-1660) and speak with a social worker who can help you access the best options.

My parents are thinking about moving to Newton to be closer to us. What services and programs would be available to them?

You're looking at the best resource to find that information. Look around this web site, use its links, and explore the wonderful world of Newton's senior services and programs.

What transportation services are available to seniors?

See Resources and Links for a listing of transportation services that can get you around the city and beyond.

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