Mission Viejo senior services report shows post‑COVID participation surge, new classes and partnerships

Community Services Supervisor Melanie McGrann told the commission the city’s senior services have grown dramatically since 2017 and reached a new high of over 112,000 participant visits in the most recent reporting year. “We are now at our highest of over a 112,000 participants, which is something we’re really proud of,” McGrann said during the May 20 presentation.

McGrann reviewed program categories including fitness (chair strength, yoga, tai chi and senior boxing), social and educational clubs, music groups and a long‑running gardening program. She said two popular classes — senior boxing and senior strength/conditioning — will be added two days a week starting next month because of demand. The presentation noted partnerships with outside organizations for specialized instruction, citing the California Highway Patrol for an Age‑Well Drive Smart class and the American Red Cross for disaster preparedness sessions.

Tim Swaim, the community services coordinator, described one‑on‑one technology help appointments and other support services: “In 2024, we provided free tax aid to over 350 participants,” he said, and he described ongoing Medicare assistance clinics run by a nonprofit partner. Food services and transportation were also discussed: Swaim summarized daily lunch and senior grocery programs (with a suggested $5.50 donation for lunches and distribution in partnership with Second Harvest) and McGrann later described transportation services for older adults funded in part by Measure M2.

McGrann closed by highlighting the senior leadership committee — volunteers who lead newcomer tours, manage popups and staff the senior grocery program — and invited commissioners’ questions about gardens, excursions and volunteer support. The commission praised staff for program growth and community engagement.