Letter to the Editor: One in five Shoreline residents is negotiating the world of aging

To the Editor:

I have joined the ranks of those who believe that our proposed Community and Aquatic Center must expand by 6000 square feet of dedicated space for senior programs. It is imperative that this space include a commercial kitchen for full meal preparation – a need not for only seniors but for the benefit of many other groups who desire to conduct cultural events organized around familiar food.

The space must offer services provided by an array of knowledgeable providers. This may eventually include the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Center, but may also locate various other senior activities under one roof. Seniors will have the benefit of all other services available at the gym and pool, plus ready access to transit, shopping, and medical care.

The addition of $5.7 million dollars barely increases the overall cost to taxpayers.

One in five Shoreline residents is negotiating the world of aging. Although no two of us are exactly alike we do share certain things:

• Whatever our ability, we need to keep active in mind, body, and spirit.
• We seek social interaction with peers, and enjoy the company of younger people.
• Our life’s work and interests add value to the civic life of the community.
• We need places to gather.

Two things worry seniors: the dreaded fall and the dreaded call to hand over the car keys can trigger the loss of mobility and the downward spiral to social isolation. Dedicated space for seniors in our new facility will reduce these risks and enhance the lives of a population of aging people who wish to live out their active retirement years and eventual old age in Shoreline.

Please join me in this effort.

Robin McClelland

Shoreline