COMMERCE CITY – When the oldest Baby Boomers start turning 65 next year, the Commerce City Parks and Recreation Department will greet them with diverse programs that meet the unique needs of this growing segment of the population. With trips to Rockies’ baseball games, weightlifting classes and nature hikes, many of today’s seniors are reinventing the concept of retirement.
“Studies have shown that the longer people stay active, the better their health is, so we go to great lengths to provide activities that enable people to socialize and stay active,” said Justin Lampe, Senior and Adult Services Coordinator for the Commerce City Parks and Recreation Department.
Many of the programs are born from survey results and input from the Senior Advisory Committee that oversees the overall effectiveness of offerings and services to seniors. Along with day trips, dining out and exercise classes, seniors are able to participate in numerous volunteer programs or attend educational seminars on anything from safe driving to searching for new job.
“Retirement today can be defined in many different ways,” Lampe said, adding that many of today’s seniors are still working and are looking for more individualized, interest-based classes as opposed to the generic programs of years’ past that were designed to cater to everyone.
With more than nine percent of the city’s population already at age 65 or older, the Recreation Center partners with other local agencies to provide no-cost and low-cost services to help seniors assimilate into the community. Partnerships with Adams County’s A-Lift to provide transportation services and the Visiting Nurses Association on health care issues give seniors the life skills they need while morning coffees and monthly lunches provide an avenue for social interaction that many crave.
In its mission to offer recreational opportunities to everyone, the Recreation Center also provides access to free cultural events and financial assistance for any of its programs. Through the ARTREACH Program, seniors can receive free tickets to various plays, musicals or other cultural events, paying only for the transportation to and from the venue. Those needing financial assistance can apply to the Goodfriends Program, which allots up to $50 annually to individuals who need help paying for classes or activities.
For more information on Commerce City’s senior programs, contact Justin Lampe at 303-289-3720.
