adult education program of the schools, and that literacy and fundamental education be extended in the older age group. The report identified 10 private agencies and 7 governmental agencies providing services for the aged in the county. It listed 17 nursing homes, 5 hospitals, the Public Health, Nursing League, and the Lower Miami Valley Guidance Center, as institutions and agencies furnishing health and medical services. Three of the county industries have preparation for retirement programs. Six industries have hospitalization for retired persons. Two industries have limited facilities for using the talents of retired persons. Two other industries are considering these programs for the future. The report reveals that two unions have "preparation for retirement programs," and that other unions have committees studying these programs. Several unions also have committees studying the use of the talents of retired people. Most important is their recommendation for a continuing committee to implement the recommendations and "to keep moving ahead in this field." There is ample evidence that the Hamilton community and Butler County are looking at the total needs of older persons. They are assessing their resources, taking measure of unmet needs, and encouraging action to meet the realities and challenges of aging. Is there any one central idea that might be said to epitomize the spirit and "practical workings" of the Center? The local consensus is that usefulness and purposeful living spell the dominant spirit of the Center. Keeping active in the stream of life where older people are needed and wanted is an experience many find rewarding at the Hamilton Senior Citizens Center, whether they be agile or in wheelchairs. In and through learning activities, recreation, and community services something difficult to measure, but nevertheless real, has been added to the quality of living in Hamilton, Ohio. Activities Actual creative assignments in prose and poetry, drawing heavily on recollections of area and its peoples. Some selections chosen for use in Newsletter. Some playlets used by the drama group. Interesting, informative, and humorous books are reviewed by members or volunteers to a group which sews or quilts or does other handwork while listening. discussion period follows in the "Cleaners" Club. A Leaders Meeting Time Trained volunteer teacher. Twice a month. Member chairman; trained volun- Once a week. teer as cochairman. Discussion, comments, and study of a pre- Painting, molding, finishing useful and Regular part-singing, choral work at Center, Trained volunteer or trained mem occasional performances in community Preparation of special program features for ber. Trained volunteer director. Trained member chairman. Do. Member chairman_ Trained volunteer caller. Member chairman Birthdays of members are recognized at a Member chairman; volunteers. monthly party, at which time "birthdayites" wear special hats, "Happy Birthday" is sung by members, special program is presented, and special birthday cake is served. Periodically. 2 or 3 times during summer. Meetings once a month; party once a year. Once a month. Once a week. Once a month. |