What do Goodman’s older adults think?

By Gayle Laszewski, GCC Older Adult program manager

In February, Goodman Community Center participants provided feedback regarding the Older Adult program and the impact of its services and activities. GCC wanted to capture participants’ opinions about such things as: feeling welcome at the center, if their needs were being addressed, and if programs and activities offered improved their physical and mental health.

The results of the survey were amazing. At least 90% of participants either agreed or strongly agreed that they felt like they belong at GCC, that there are staff they can trust and that at least one staff member and one participant cares about them. Participants also believed they had on-going opportunities to provide programming feedback and that staff valued their input.

Regarding the impact of participating in GCC programs, 84% indicated they felt more connected to an older adult community and 64% had increased their physical activity this past year. When asked about improvement in mental health due to participating in GCC programs, 90% indicated improvement.

GCC also received feedback regarding whether needs were being addressed. More than 93% of participants indicated that GCC offers programs that meet their needs and is an excellent place for older adults to get support. They also felt if they had a personal problem, there was at least one staff member they could go to for help.

Some of the comments received include: “My mental health is better due to connecting with others in class and also through learning meditation techniques.” “Living alone, GCC provides much needed friendships and concern for others.” “My stress management and sense of well-being is overall improved.” “Staff are helpful, classes are affordable and the building is very clean.”

When asked on a scale of 1 to 10, “how likely you would recommend our Older Adult Program to family and friends,” 82% chose a 9 or 10.