Senior citizens in the Skaneateles area can soon again get together and socialize as a new dining site reopens. The area hasn’t had a senior dining program since 2019. The new location at the First Presbyterian Church in the village, is thanks to support from Onondaga County and the Seniors of Skaneateles group.
One Skaneateles native looking forward to the monthly program said it is more than just a chance to have a meal.
“This will help bring out the cheerfulness in them again,” said local Tessy Spearing, who admitted, the days get longer without companionship, “It does get pretty lonely. I’ve had some medical problems and sit at home all day.”
She said it will be fun to reconnect with the people who she lost touch with during COVID isolation.
Seniors of Skaneateles Group spearheaded the idea of bringing back a dining site.
“Best thing about it is it’s not income related. You come, 60-years or older,” said Jean Clayborn, President of the group. “If you have the ability to make a contribution of $3.50, great. If not, it’s all about socializing, bringing people together, getting them out of the house, getting around the couch.”
Village and county officials agree reducing isolation and increasing social contact has many benefits.
While the idea is to “get them out of their home and social,” Clayburn said the mission goes further, “[it’s] also to address the mental difficulties that they’re having.”
Onondaga County leaders have a goal to get seniors living active, healthy lives.
To that end, County Executive Ryan McMahon said they are working on other support services, including funding for a program aimed at reducing senior slips and falls. While that would benefit the individual, he said it would also help the community reduce healthcare problems.
The Skaneateles dining program meets the third Wednesday of each month starting at noon at the First Presbyterian Church. The village is also developing a senior activity center where the meal program will move, once it is finished.
