Deborah Finley and Oakland University researchers presented preliminary results of the Community Research and Inclusive Senior Participation (CRISP) project at the Oct. 21 Pontiac City Council meeting, reporting findings from five focus groups of local seniors.

Researchers said seniors who already use the city’s Born and Ruth Peterson centers tend to learn about activities by dropping in or taking handouts, while seniors who don’t attend said they prefer mailed notices or posted marquees and are less likely to get information online. Transportation and center hours were cited as barriers; some younger, working seniors said center hours overlap business hours.

Dr. Martha Escobar told the council that many seniors credit the centers with physical, mental and emotional benefits, and that participants want a mix of structured classes, unstructured drop-in activities and outings. The research team also noted men are less likely than women to attend and that many longtime Pontiac residents want opportunities to “give back” through mentoring and volunteer programs.

Council members congratulated the research team and encouraged staff to consider the report’s suggestions when planning outreach and programming.