Monroe Senior Center Notes: Ageism, line dancing, caregiver support, stress management … – The Monroe Sun

Monroe Senior Center Monthly Programs and Support Services

The Monroe Senior Center, located at 235 Cutlers Farm Road, Monroe, Connecticut, offers a variety of programs, events, and support group meetings each month. These initiatives align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly promoting good health and well-being (SDG 3), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and lifelong learning opportunities (SDG 4). For membership details, please click here.

Presentation on Ageism

On Friday, February 27, at 1:30 p.m., Art Gottlieb, LCSW, CSA, will deliver a presentation addressing ageism. This session aims to challenge stereotypes and assumptions about senior citizens, fostering an inclusive culture that respects all ages. The program supports SDG 10 by promoting reduced inequalities and combating discrimination based on age.

• Date & Time: Friday, Feb. 27, 1:30 p.m.
• Presenter: Art Gottlieb, LCSW, CSA
• Focus: Understanding and surviving ageism in a youth-centered culture
• Registration: Signups available in the Monroe Senior Center lobby

Caregiver Support Group

Also on Friday, February 27, at 3 p.m., the center will host a Caregiver Support Group session. This group provides emotional support and practical advice for individuals caring for loved ones aged 60 and above, addressing mental health and well-being concerns consistent with SDG 3.

• Date & Time: Friday, Feb. 27, 3 p.m.
• Facilitator: Art Gottlieb, LCSW, CSA
• Location: Center’s library
• Eligibility: Free for individuals aged 60+ or caregivers of seniors 60+; no membership required

Line Dancing Classes

Starting in March, the Monroe Senior Center will offer line dancing classes every Tuesday from 3 to 4 p.m. This activity encourages physical health and social engagement among seniors, supporting SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by fostering community participation.

• Schedule: Tuesdays, 3–4 p.m., beginning March
• Cost: Free with membership
• Registration: Sign up at the front desk

Stress Management Workshop

On Tuesday, February 24, at 1 p.m., Deborah Buckley, MA in Applied Psychology, will lead a Stress Management Workshop. The session will explore the effects of stress, identify triggers, and introduce practical coping strategies applicable to various life domains. This workshop promotes mental health and well-being in line with SDG 3.

• Date & Time: Tuesday, Feb. 24, 1 p.m.
• Facilitator: Deborah Buckley, MA Applied Psychology
• Content: Stress effects, triggers, and coping strategies
• Attire: Casual; participants encouraged to relax
• Registration: Signups in the Monroe Senior Center lobby

Bereavement Support Group

The Bereavement Group convenes every Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Monroe Senior Center. This group provides a compassionate and supportive environment for individuals grieving the loss of loved ones, contributing to emotional well-being and social inclusion (SDG 3 and SDG 10).

• Schedule: Wednesdays, 2 p.m.
• Facilitator: Joan Joyce, MS, NCC, LPC, CSA
• Contact: Call 203-452-2815 to participate
• Membership: Not required
• Purpose: Support for grief, emotional expression, and connection with others

Joan Joyce is a licensed professional counselor in Connecticut, a nationally certified counselor, and a certified senior advisor, ensuring expert guidance for participants.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article discusses programs focused on mental health, stress management, caregiver support, and bereavement, which are directly related to promoting well-being and mental health.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • The presentation on ageism addresses social inclusion and reducing discrimination against senior citizens, aligning with efforts to reduce inequalities.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The Monroe Senior Center provides community programs that enhance social participation and support for older persons, contributing to making communities inclusive and supportive.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
   • Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol (implied through stress management and caregiver support).
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, disability, or other status.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.7: Provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible, green and public spaces, particularly for older persons.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. SDG 3 Indicators
   • Prevalence of mental health disorders among older adults (implied by focus on stress management, caregiver support, and bereavement groups).
   • Access to mental health services and support programs for seniors.
2. SDG 10 Indicators
   • Measures of age-based discrimination or social inclusion levels (implied through the ageism presentation).
   • Participation rates of older adults in community programs.
3. SDG 11 Indicators
   • Number and accessibility of community centers and programs available to older persons.
   • Participation rates in community activities by seniors.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: themonroesun.com