Our Story

The Town of Manchester has been providing Senior Center services to older adult residents since 1969. Originally located in the building that currently houses the Town’s Youth Services Bureau, the Senior Center moved to its’ current location in 1980 as services and membership expanded. This move was accomplished by an extensive renovation to the former Green School. The 1980 renovation was the last major building project undertaken to meet the needs of older residents in Manchester. In the 40+ years since the opening of the Senior Center on East Middle Turnpike, many services have been added and expanded. The current campus has three floors (two contain spaces for public use) as well as an outdoor senior community garden, bocce courts and a greenhouse. The Greenhouse and bocce courts are in need of repair and/or renovation. The Senior Center building is also designated as the Town of Manchester’s emergency shelter. Supplies and equipment for this purpose are stored on the third floor.

The services provided to the older residents of Manchester fall into three main categories – Leisure and Fitness, Health & Wellness and Social Services. In addition, the Senior Center offers a transportation program and a meal program. Currently there are over 45 Leisure and Fitness programs including fitness classes, yoga, Tai Chi, Bingo, card games of all types and Book Group. Health and Wellness programs include, foot care, weekly blood pressure and medication management clinic, ECHN physician visit and health education programs such as Diabetes prevention and management, living with chronic conditions and a well-attended bi-annual Senior Health Fair. Social Services offered include individual client counseling and assessment, government benefits counseling and assistance with personal income tax preparation as well as educational programs on topics such as Medicare/Medicaid, wills and probate and Part D prescription plans. Health, Social Services and Recreation staff collaborate on several small group programs that include Men’s Group, Women’s Group, and the Senior Circle. These small group programs aim to welcome new members to the Center, reduce social isolation and foster continued independence in the community.