The Life Scholar’s visit to the West Senior Wellness Center was the first time in a while in which I interacted with an elder that I was not related to. Serena was a senior who also volunteered in the morning, serving fresh beverages to those who met their smiling face. Serena found purpose in serving drinks: “If I’m not here, nobody else would be able to do it.” Serena was delighted to share their life story with the scholars distributing food, sharing a little tidbit with each tray we passed out. They welcomed our help with open arms, sharing that we were the kindest group of people they had ever seen in the center. I really hope I too am active in my community and have a fascinating life to share in my later years, living a happy life just like them.
At the Center, the Life Course Scholars were treated to a tour of the facilities. The tour of the West Senior Wellness Center put into perspective the issues that seniors face, especially those who are low-income living downtown. To combat homelessness, malnutrition, and accessibility to basic needs, the Center provides so many resources for low-income and unhoused seniors–having caseworkers on-site, providing engaging activities for community and wellness, serving breakfast and lunch. The list goes on and on. The staff at the Center are so passionate about the people they serve. Their care for the elders in their community is evident in the way discuss the many ways they support seniors through the resources they provide, their interactions, and stories they have in serving the Center. It is this passion and compassion that is behind all operations at the West Senior Wellness Center, seeking to provide seniors a community of security and care which they may struggle to attain due to low income or a lack of social networks. I am so fascinated by the ways this center provides support to the senior population of San Diego and the large population of seniors they support each day. I am eager to return and learn more through my engagement in programs and the experiences of those I interact with