As one of the first site visits we had visited for the quarter where we actually got to go in and interact with some of the seniors who used these facilities, I was very glad to have been able to visit the Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center in Downtown San Diego. This facility was open and free for all seniors who are living at or below the poverty line. One of the first things that struck me about the facility was the plethora of services it provided to these seniors free of cost. These services ranged from meals to exercise services to even free dental care (that of which is actually a big factor in the health of many seniors). While it may not seem like a big deal right now or later on in the future if one is able to pay for these costs, without such essential services available to you—it can cause a big strain on your life. Another thing that stood out to me was the great amount of seniors that came to the center daily.
One thing I really liked about the center was the idea that “although they serve those in poverty, it doesn’t mean the services have to be second class.” I believe this speaks to the importance of such a high-quality facility to seniors who need these services. Moreover, when you are treated with respect and with services you need, it really does make you feel like a person. It makes you feel valued and in turn can affect your mentality or perspective on life. Other than a tour of the facility, we were also able to serve one lunch-hour for the seniors in which we served food and helped bus tables. With the few interactions I was able to have with some of these seniors, it was nice to see they enjoyed these meals and that we were the ones serving them. This experience really did open my eyes to a different side of senior-living that I had never really considered before.
- Isabel Ignacio
One thing I really liked about the center was the idea that “although they serve those in poverty, it doesn’t mean the services have to be second class.” I believe this speaks to the importance of such a high-quality facility to seniors who need these services. Moreover, when you are treated with respect and with services you need, it really does make you feel like a person. It makes you feel valued and in turn can affect your mentality or perspective on life. Other than a tour of the facility, we were also able to serve one lunch-hour for the seniors in which we served food and helped bus tables. With the few interactions I was able to have with some of these seniors, it was nice to see they enjoyed these meals and that we were the ones serving them. This experience really did open my eyes to a different side of senior-living that I had never really considered before.
- Isabel Ignacio