VPAS To Launch ‘Café’ For Older Adults

In keeping with a goal to provide older adults with senior center programming in underserved areas, Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) will launch “VPAS Café Lexington” from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 7, at the Rockbridge Regional Library in Lexington.

VPAS Café Lexington is a weekly gathering for adults 60 years and older which will feature a freshly prepared, nutritious meal, as well as programming to include exercise, nutrition education, social activities, and crafts. At a later date, transportation to and from the library for VPAS Café Lexington will be available within Lexington city limits.

Structured gatherings of older adults for meals and programming have become very popular, providing access to a variety of resources seniors need to stay healthy and independent. In fact, research shows that compared with their peers, participants have higher levels of health, social interaction, and life satisfaction, according to Laura Hotinger, VPAS Director of Senior Services in Buena Vista, Lexington, Rockbridge and Bath County.

But, without a permanent senior center building in Lexington, many local residents miss out on these benefits, she said. More than 40 percent of Rockbridge County residents will be 60 and over by 2030, according to University of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper Center. As the population of older adults continues to expand, it is more important than ever to find new ways to meet their needs.

“We know there are many older Lexington residents who do not have ready access to social and recreation activities, an opportunity to share a meal with friends, or a place outside their homes where they feel welcomed, valued and respected,” said Hotinger. “We hope to begin serving these neighbors through VPAS Café Lexington.”

All adults 60 years and over are invited to attend VPAS Café Lexington. While there is no cost to participate, donations are welcome and help to enhance programming.

For more information or to reserve a meal, visit vpas.info/events or call 261-7474.