Council offers holiday celebrations for older residents

The Council on Aging of Central Oregon and local senior centers are hosting a series of seasonal celebrations for older adults to enjoy a festive lunch and connect with the community this holiday season — including one in Sisters. The holiday meals are free to adults aged 60 and older; a small fee is required for those under 60. Donations are welcomed to help support the program at a time of increasing need.

“These holiday celebrations are essential in offering both nutrition support and social connection — and ensuring that our older adult neighbors feel remembered, honored, and valued,” said Susan Rotella, executive director for the Council on Aging. “Older adults are often overlooked during the holidays. Many are in need of basic essentials such as a well-balanced meal, and isolation and loneliness are rife among this vulnerable population. The holidays are a time to come together and support the health and general well-being of those at risk.”

The holiday lunches include seasonal fare and decor, music, a raffle, and gifts for all who attend. Lunch will be served from 12 to 1 p.m. in Sisters on December 10, at Sisters Community Church, 1300 W. McKenzie Hwy.

The Council on Aging is anticipating serving around 500 diners during these seasonal lunches across the tri-county area.

“That figure represents a larger attendance than last year,” added Rotella. “As the population of older adults in Central Oregon continues to grow, community meal programs are providing a valuable and well-utilized service.”

Central Oregon residents are welcomed and encouraged to support the Council on Aging’s community meal program. To make a donation, visit http://www.councilonaging.org/donate. For more information about local events and resources for older adults and their unpaid caregivers, call the Council on Aging at 541-678-5483, visit the Council on Aging website at http://www.councilonaging.org, and follow the Council on Aging’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/CouncilOnAgingOfCentralOregon.

A nonprofit organization, the Council on Aging advocates for, empowers, and guides older adults and their loved ones to live with independence and well-being in age-friendly communities — places where infrastructure, policies, and practices are developed to make the community liveable, accessible, and responsive to the needs of people of all ages, especially older adults.