This week we went to the Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center in downtown. This center caters to low-income seniors who are on the brink of homelessness. Our class was given a tour of the center so we were able to see the services that were provided for the seniors. One aspect of the tour that stuck out to me was the dental services. There was a dental office that had a full range of services from check-ups to surgeries all for free. Unfortunately, there are only a few dental offices like this in the country. The office was surprisingly well kept and seemed to have the latest technology. After the tour, we were able to mingle with some of the seniors. I went into the game room and talked with a man who was doing a 1000-piece puzzle. I loved how open he was when I asked him questions about his life. He told me that he immigrated to the U.S. from Greece after Germany had attacked during WWII. He had described living through WWII as fearful and hungry, for there was no crops growing during the time. He had also mentioned how he had enlisted in the military, but was left with many health issues afterwards. Thus, he never married or had any children. Now, he lives a couple blocks away from the West Center and walks there every day to socialize and eat the provided meals. It was very fascinating to learn about this man’s life that I wish I had asked for his name.
Additionally, we had the opportunity to serve lunch to the seniors in the dining hall. It was nicely decorated for the Lunar New Year. We served whole-wheat pasta with meatballs and broccoli. I was glad to see that the center works with a dietitian to create healthy meals. I thought it was interesting how we were to serve women first at every table before men. Overall, the atmosphere of the West Center seemed positive and resourceful for low-income seniors.
Additionally, we had the opportunity to serve lunch to the seniors in the dining hall. It was nicely decorated for the Lunar New Year. We served whole-wheat pasta with meatballs and broccoli. I was glad to see that the center works with a dietitian to create healthy meals. I thought it was interesting how we were to serve women first at every table before men. Overall, the atmosphere of the West Center seemed positive and resourceful for low-income seniors.