Senior Center expands programs with new excursions and creative activities

The City of Carlsbad's Special Senior Commission convened on June 26, 2025, to discuss various initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for seniors in the community. The meeting highlighted new programs, partnerships, and feedback from recent surveys, all designed to foster engagement and support for the senior population.

The session began with an overview of new recurring programs introduced in June, including "Ask the Real Estate Agent," which offers seniors 30-minute sessions to discuss home selling and real estate inquiries. Another program, "The Art of Letting Go," addresses the challenges seniors face during transitions in their lives.

A significant focus of the meeting was the collaboration with the Library and Cultural Arts department. This partnership has facilitated events such as a video game workshop at the senior center, which, while primarily aimed at teens, also attracted senior participants. The commission also reported on the continuation of the "Aging in Place" series, which recently addressed Medicare for those facing terminal illness.

The commission shared updates on senior excursions, which included visits to Deer Park Winery and the Auto Museum, as well as a recent trip to the Museum of Making Music. These excursions are based on public recommendations, and a recent survey aimed at improving the program was discussed.

An intergenerational garden celebration, hosted in collaboration with Kids for Peace, was another highlight. This event brought together seniors and students for a day of music, activities, and games, fostering community connections.

The meeting also covered the success of the "Creative Cuisine" classes, which featured popular themes such as Mexican food and sushi. Concerts, including performances by the Seaside Singers and a ping pong Olympics event, were well-attended and received positive feedback from participants.

Financial updates revealed a current balance of $330,991.17 in the special revenue fund, with expenditures primarily related to concerts and community events. The commission awarded 11 senior opportunity grants totaling $3,300, with a remaining balance of $1,700 available for future applicants.

The nutrition program was discussed, noting a successful transition to Meals on Wheels, which has received positive feedback regarding meal quality and variety. A customer satisfaction survey indicated that participants appreciate the social aspect of the program, with activities designed to enhance community connections during meal times.

The transportation program is also thriving, providing 250 to 300 rides per month, and the commission is working to improve attendance tracking for various programs. Feedback from a targeted survey indicated a preference among seniors for purchasing their own meals during excursions, leading to adjustments in pricing and offerings.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to creating age-friendly programs and fostering community engagement among seniors. The ongoing feedback from participants will continue to shape future initiatives, ensuring that the needs and preferences of the senior population are met effectively.