Whom do we consider to be a senior?
We joke that "we don't check IDs." We develop programs to meet the needs and address the interests of the older adult population of Newton. Some people who attend the Center are younger than 55; all are welcome!
How do you get to the Newton Senior Center?
To see driving directions, please visit our Directions page. We also provide transportation services to the Center for those who have no other way of getting here. Please visit our Transportation page for more information.
What are the Center's operating hours?
We are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please keep your eye on the calendar for special events held outside our normal operating hours.
What's for lunch?
Our lunch menu can be found on our Let's Eat page.
What do I have to do to join the Newton Senior Center? Is there a membership?
All you have to do to "join" is drop in and sign in. See Our Programs for a listing of programs and specifics about fees and/or donations. Although there is no formal process to join the Center we do strongly encourage anyone who is thinking about participating at the Center to sign up for a tour. Please contact Molly Sass, Program Coordinator, at 617-796-1670 or msass@newtonma.gov for more information or to schedule a tour.
Do I have to be a Newton resident to participate at the Center?
No, you do not have to be a Newton resident. Non-Newton residents are welcome to participate, however for programs with limited space, Newton residents do get priority. Many of the volunteers at the center are from other towns. We encourage all to participate.
Will I fit in at the Center? What type of person participates?
People from all walks of life, ethnic backgrounds, income levels, educational backgrounds participate in a huge variety of general life experiences at the Center. We do require that those who attend the Center and its programs do so independently. Some people spend the whole day at the Center, some drop in for specific programs and others use it in whatever combination fits their schedule. If you need additional assistance, Center staff can guide you to other programs.
What programs do you offer at the Center that may be of interest to me?
Take a look at Our Programs and we are pretty sure something there will catch your eye. We are always interested in expanding our programing; please contact Molly Sass, Program Coordinator, 617-796-1670 or msass@newtonma.gov with any suggestions.
Who funds the Newton Senior Center?
The Center is funded by an array of public funds and private contributions. We receive city, state, and federal funds, as well as contributions of all sizes from individuals, corporations and foundations. The Senior Citizen Fund of Newton is a private, not-for-profit organization which generously raises and distributes private funds to support the Newton Senior Center and transportation for seniors. If you would like more information please contact Jayne Colino, Director, at 617-796-1671 or jcolino@newtonma.gov.
How can I find information on housing options for Newton Seniors?
See Resources and Links for a listing of the various housing options available in Newton or contact Kathy Laufer, Clinical Social Worker, at 617-796-1663 or klaufer@newtonma.gov
Where can I find home-based services like homemakers and home health aides?
Home care services may be obtained from private agencies or through Springwell, the local Aging Services Access Point/ Home Care Corporation (617-926-4100). Springwell has income and "tasks of daily living" criteria which must be met. The Newton Dept. of Senior Services maintains a list of private agencies. If you are not sure, please call senior services (617-796-1660) and speak with a social worker who can help you access the best options.
My parents are thinking about moving to Newton to be closer to us. What services and programs would be available to them?
You're looking at the best resource to find that information. Look around this web site, use its links, and explore the wonderful world of Newton's senior services and programs.
What transportation services are available to seniors?
Please visit our Transportation page for a listing of services that can get you around the city and beyond.
