OFFERS SENIORS DAILY PROGRAMMING & SO MUCH MORE
VICTORIA SUTTON
HUMANS ARE BORN INTO SOCIAL GROUPS AND LIVE THEIR ENTIRE LIVES AS A PART OF A SOCIETY AND COMMUNITY BUT ONLY RECENTLY DID WE START TO DISCOVER EXACTLY HOW IMPORTANT THESE RELATIONSHIPS ARE. THE NEED FOR COMMUNITY, LOVE, AND CONNECTION IS NOT SOMETHING THAT DIMINISHES AS WE GET OLDER. IN FACT, STAYING CONNECTED CAN ACTUALLY KEEP OUR LOVED ONES FEELING THEIR BEST.
According to a study cited in AARP, “Many scientists now believe that social interaction is key to maintaining good mental health and warding off diseases like Dementia and Alzheimer’s. Many recent studies document the positive effects of social interaction.”
Increased social interaction can reduce stress, improve physical health, reduce the risk of depression, lower levels of anxiety and increase self-esteem. On the opposite end, a lack of socialization can be harmful. “Social isolation can often heighten feelings or symptoms of depression, making the need for human connection and shared experiences critical,” said Jacqueline M. Chattah, Senior Division Case Manager at SBH. Driven by the science emerging about the benefits of socialization, our firsthand knowledge of our community seniors’ needs, and our SBH foundation at the forefront; SBH Connect was born.
INTRODUCING SBH CONNECT
SBH Connect, a program of the Lorraine and Louis A”H Shamie Senior Division, offers free, all day, daily programming for the seniors of our community. Every Monday through Thursday, seniors can take classes taught by talented instructors at no cost to them. We’ve heard from so many community members who were concerned about their parents that spend too much time alone at home with nothing to do. If only there was a safe place where they could go and interact with others, they’d say. We’re proud to say that SBH Connect is that place! Each day, dozens of seniors come to Connect to socialize and interact while participating in engaging activities.
“To see SBH Connect open its doors to our most beloved and respected community members has been a dream which we worked tirelessly to achieve,” said SBH Vice President and Senior Division Board Chair Michele Levy.
On top of our amazing daily schedule, our program is staffed by trained professionals who ensure that each senior’s needs are met, whether that be related to their physical or mental health, food supply at home, or anything else they may need when they step out of our building. “At SBH Connect, we aim to provide our seniors with the support they need as they and their caregivers navigate the aging process,” said Jacqueline M. Chattah.
PROGRAMMING AT CONNECT
SBH Connect is committed to offering a diverse schedule of programs to ensure that there is something that will appeal to every senior. “The program was developed with input and suggestions from our seniors for our seniors, and offers an extensive array of activities that appeal to a wide range of people,” said Michele Levy. “So, whether you enjoy exercise, art history or arts and crafts, political debates, mah-jongg or just hanging out—there’s something for everyone,” she added. Daily programming includes art, music, cooking, exercise, games and so much more. We are constantly adding to our schedule based on feedback.
For our seniors looking for some extra fulfilment, we proudly offer volunteer opportunities that meet their hobbies and interests. One popular example is our Knitting Club, wherein our seniors knit blankets for the babies of our Fertility Division clients! Our book club provides for a stimulating conversation with experienced community moderators. Additionally, we routinely host students from our schools to Connect to spend time with and learn valuable lessons from our seniors. It truly is special to see.
If you or a loved one is interested in joining us at Connect, please call Shari at (718) 787-1100 x 353 or come join us in our new building, 1963 McDonald Ave. Transportation can be provided for those who need, free-of-charge. We can’t wait to see you! Visit @sbh_connect on Instagram to see this month’s calendar.
Victoria Sutton is the director of the SBH Lorraine and Louis A”H Shamie Senior Division in both New York and New Jersey. She has a Master’s in Public Administration from Baruch School of Public Affairs.
