Senior Center Service Utilization: Do Social Ties Affect Participation Patterns?

Abstract

Purpose A better understanding of service utilization patterns at senior service centers can improve program development and constituent usage Theory This research examines whether participation in senior center activities is a function of senior socialization that reinforces and supports existing social ties by selecting specific activities in senior centers. Methods A total of 924 participants of senior centers in a municipality in the Southwest were surveyed. Results We find that having closer friends influences participation in certain senior center services. We also find that gender, race, ethnicity, and income also explain different usage rates beyond age. Conclusion Opportunities to foster social interaction to grow and reduce barriers to participation and market to a broader range of current and potential participants are discussed.

Beyond Parenting Socialization Years: The Relationship between Parenting Dimensions and Grandparenting Functioning

“…Grandparenting functioning is influenced by a multitude of psychological and environmental factors that will need further analysis. For example, all participants came from community senior centers, in which a positive impact on health and social aspects has been seen previously [75,76]. However, within this group, the study still found differences relating to grandparenting functioning and the impact on participants' wellbeing, depending on parenting during the socialization years.…”

Why Don't Older Adults Use Senior Centers? Evidence from Adults Age 50 and Older in Massachusetts

“…There is limited research regarding the racial and ethnic profile of senior center attendees. Among studies that include race and ethnicity, the portion of attendees who are non‐white ranges from 12% to 47% (Aday et al, 2018; Choi, An, & DiNitto, 2020; Keyes et al, 2020; Pardasani 2010; Pardasani & Berkman, 2020). It is not clear, however, how representative of senior center population these figures are.…”