Membership

“Members” refer to people who want to come to the Center for meals and/or programs. Often, new members ask questions that indicate there are many misunderstandings surrounding membership and services of the Senior Center. Sometimes this leads to a delay in the person coming to visit.

In hopes of shedding some light on the subject, here are some of the most commonly asked questions.
　

At what age can I join?

Generally, you must be at least 60 years of age.

An individual under 60 years of age can join and eat a meal when they accompany a spouse who is a member at least 60 years of age.
　

Is transportation available?

Yes, the Center has a van that picks up people from their homes and returns them home in the afternoon. The van serves Natural Bridge, Glasgow and Buena Vista. Residents of the City of Lexington may reserve a ride with RATS and pay a minimal fee by calling the Center. Transportation is available on Tuesdays and Fridays only. Members must be able to enter and exit the Center’s van safely and without injury with hand-held assistance by Van Driver.
 

How much does it cost?

There is no membership fee, daily charge, or transportation fee. However, members are encouraged to donate as they are able to the program. Occasionally, the Center may offer a special program or activity where a fee is charged.

The Center is operated by Valley Program for Aging Services, a private, a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization. We receive funding from federal, state, and local governments, but also rely on grants, fundraisers, and client contributions to support the services provided by the Center.
  　

How often can members attend the Center?

Members can attend as often as they like. Some members attend (five) days a week; others attend once or twice a month.
　

Can I arrive and leave any time I choose?

Members with their own transportation can come and go as they please within our service hours. Members that rely on the Center vans for transportation will be picked up in time to arrive by (9 a.m.) and will depart the Center at (1:30 p.m.)
　

Can I visit before I join?

Absolutely! The Center strongly encourages people to visit a couple times to get comfortable before becoming a member. Once you decide to join, the Center Director will meet with you to complete your membership paperwork.
 

My friend needs help. Can he/she still become a member?

The Center is designed to serve independent adults. Individuals must be able to perform Activities of Daily Living independently in the Center including:

  • Administering own medication if needed during Center hours.
  • Ambulating with or without assistive devices, and transferring (moving from one position or surface to another) without assistance and without injury.
  • Continence or managing incontinence successfully.
  • Eating and drinking without assistance at table.
  • Providing adequate information for initial and subsequent assessments to determine level of functional and cognitive ability.
  • Following instructions.
  • Communicating problems and needs to staff.
  • Socializing and interacting with others in a positive manner.
  • In cases where an individual needs more assistance than Center staff can reasonably accommodate, an individual may only be able to attend if accompanied during the entire stay at the Center by a qualified companion, aide, or family member.

Click for a full copy of the Senior Center Participation Guidelines.