Senior citizens looking for a place to go during the day for free or low-cost social, cultural and recreational activities can now turn to the Department of Health and Senior Services’ Internet website to find a senior center in their area.
Many of these centers also serve as cooling stations during heat waves.
The department’s searchable database is at http://web.doh.state.nj.us/apps2/seniorcenter/ scSearch.aspx.
It is searchable by county, municipality and senior center name. The search can be refined by checking which services or activities a person is seeking.
While programming and hours of operation vary from site to site, most senior centers are open weekdays and offer a variety of activities including arts and education programs, health and fitness classes, and social and civic engagement opportunities, according to a press release.
Many also serve as senior nutrition program sites. Transportation to and from senior centers may also be arranged by center staff or through county-based senior paratransit programs.
For additional services and programs, seniors are encouraged to contact their area Agency on Aging toll-free at 1-877-222-3737.