“One-stop” center open for San Antonio area seniors

As the country prepares for a population increase of older citizens from the Baby Boom generation, local and federal leaders joined seniors recently to celebrate the grand opening of a new center designed specifically for the needs and desires of seniors. The 24,000-square foot Bob Ross Senior Multi-Service Health and Resource Center is located in the Medical Center at 2219 Babcock Rd.

The ADA accessible facility is a Wi-Fi hotspot and includes a computer lab, exercise pool, workout room, medical screening area and reading and dining rooms. There also is an arts and crafts room complete with a demonstration kitchen.

“These grounds, which once housed the Children’s Shelter, have transitioned from caring for our youngest citizens now to our oldest. I have been privileged to play a role in its rebirth,” said District 8 Councilman Hall. “I want to thank the voters who approved the City and County bonds during my first months in office in 2003. I also applaud everyone who helped bring to fruition a vision that was championed by a dedicated servant.”

Hall successfully proposed the naming of the center for Ross. Ross served as the first chair of the City/County Joint Commission on Elderly Affairs, City Councilman, and was a longtime senior advocate. It was the commission, led by Ross, which voiced the need for the facility. City Council and Bexar County Commissioners supported the recommendation, funding construction with voter-approved bonds and assistance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

“With an estimated 75 percent growth of our senior population in this region by 2020, it’s vital that our community provide avenues for seniors to stay healthy and active,” said City Manager Sheryl Sculley. “Services offered at this facility are designed for life-enrichment and to help prevent or better manage chronic health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis and heart disease.”

The center will offer direct and convenient access to services for seniors age 60 and older from the City’s Department of Community Initiatives (DCI), San Antonio Metropolitan Health District and 3-1-1 Customer Service. Bexar County and several local agencies are also partnering with the City to provide assistance. Seniors will be offered services that touch their everyday life such as health screenings, wellness programs, nutritious meals, product demonstrations, education, social and cultural activities, volunteer opportunities, and eventually, gardening.

“Our hope is that seniors will take full advantage of the comprehensive services offered here,” said Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo, Precinct 2. “We believe that it is a timely addition with the first members of the Baby Boom generation turning 65 in 2011.”

Area seniors provided input in the design of the Bob Ross Center. The venue will allow them to enjoy the companionship of peers, recreational activities, and exercise. It will be managed by DCI’s Senior Services Division.

For more information, visit www.sanantonio.gov/comminit/eds/bobrosscenter or call the center at 207-5300.
 

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