For our second meeting as a class, we visited the Gary and Mary West Center. One particular aspect of this site that I quickly noticed was that this was a place of gathering rather than residence. As I saw elders walking by, I took note that such a location is a unique way to allow individuals of a single cohort to come together and socialize, enjoy meals, and participate in interactive activities. It was intriguing to observe that each section of the building was dedicated for a specific purpose such as an exercise room, a computer café, a cafeteria, and much more. I was also surprised to see that the Gary and Mary West Center offered a full-functioning dental office on the second floor. I believe it is great that the center provides visitors with convenient access to adequate dental care which elders may have trouble affording if they have a limited budget to cover their expenses. When we entered the cafeteria, I was surprised to see how packed it was. I was a little nervous and intimidated to approach the elders and speak with them and the first few I greeted did not seem to have much to say to me, but one elder in particular surprised me with a greeting behind my back. I quickly turned around and had a full conversation with Robert who was from Michigan and had been living in San Diego for the past two years. He told me about his hopes of finding an adequate place to live soon and that he believes he will settle here permanently. It was relieving to see that he was as interested to speak with me as I was to interact with him. Additionally, I enjoyed being able to serve lunch to all the elders and seeing the smiles from their faces when I delivered their trays.
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Monique SimArchives
June 2018
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