Program makes ‘sense’ for seniors and youth

Program makes ‘sense’
for seniors and youth

EAST BRUNSWICK — The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) recently hosted a graduation for both older adults and graduating seniors at East Brunswick High School who participated in the Senior Sense program.

NCADD of Middlesex County partnered with the East Brunswick Department on Aging and East Brunswick High School to promote community bonding and healthy aging and reduce the risk factors of isolation and loss. Some 14 older adults and 25 high school students experienced prevention education programs on topics such as depression, conflict resolution and life transitions.

"Research has clearly demonstrated that older adults who are connected to and feel valued by the community are less likely to develop problems with alcohol or depression," said Steven G. Liga, executive director of NCADD of Middlesex County. "Similarly, youth who have positive connections with adults outside the family and feel valued by their community are also significantly less likely to experiment with alcohol and other drugs."

Included in the Senior Sense program was an intergenerational component in which high school students interviewed an older adult and compiled the adult’s life story. These biographies were then presented during the recent graduation ceremony at the East Brunswick Senior Center. Mayor William P. Neary was present to congratulate each participant.

"Both the youth and the older adults have a lot to learn from one another, but quite often we don’t see enough programs or opportunities for this to take place," Neary said.

The biographies were presented to the older adults as a gift that can be passed down to future generations. In addition to the approximately 10 typed pages of information, the biographies also included past photos of memorable events. Some of the seniors also were given personal items such as compact discs including his or her favorite songs.

The Senior Sense program is funded by a grant from the state Department of Health and Senior Services. For more information on Senior Sense, contact Jennifer Smith at the NCADD of Middlesex County, at (732) 254-3344.