Senior Centers: Characteristics of Participants and Nonparticipants

Abstract

This article examines the sociodemographic characteristics of senior center participants and nonparticipants, identifies differences between the two cohorts, and highlights their rationale for participation or nonparticipation. Few studies have attempted to delineate the demographic and choice predictors of senior center participation in the last 10 years. A population of 1,283 older adults residing in northwest Indiana was surveyed for this study. Bivariate analysis of study data found significant differences between participants and nonparticipants, and yielded valuable information about the changing needs and expectations of community-dwelling older adults. Implications of the study findings are relevant for the continued sustainability and relevance of senior centers nationwide. The results provide the framework for recommendations to senior centers with respect to both policy and practice.

KEYWORDS:

• aging
• senior centers
• participant characteristics
• programs
• utilization
• boomers

This study was funded by a grant from the Northwest Indiana Community Action Corp (NWICA). The author would like to thank the Executive Director and staff of NWICA, and former Indiana University Northwest students—Pamela Key, Kimberly Sylvester, and Pam Gabor—for their contribution to this study.