Update – May 19, 2021 – Gradual ReOpening of Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center

May 19, 2021 - By: Danbury-Seniors

Update – May 19, 2021 – Gradual ReOpening of Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center

Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center

Gradual Re-Opening – May 19, 2021

The Senior Center will resume activities with a “gradual reopening” beginning Wednesday May 19, 2021.   We are excited to welcome people back into the building and we will be reopening slowly, with caution. Safety, for our members and our staff, will remain our highest priority.  We will use CDC recommendations, the State of Connecticut’s Best Practices to Reopen Senior Centers Guide, and direction from the City of Danbury’s Health and Human Services Department. Although it won’t be the same Senior Center you left on March 16, 2020, we are excited to offer opportunities for people to see each other and have fun.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I just stop by the Senior Center any time I want?  Unfortunately, no. Individuals must make an advance reservation to attend a program or receive a service at the Senior Center.   For instance, if you want to speak with Joyce Kuhn about Medicare, you would call the Senior Center and make an appointment.  If you want to attend any class or exercise or wellness program you must call in advance to “reserve your spot”.  Each activity will have maximum attendance limits due to social distancing, the size of the room, the size of outdoor space, and the activity. If we have greater demand for a class than space and social distancing allows, we will use a hybrid system so individuals can join via Zoom or when that is not possible, attendees will be chosen by lottery. 

Do I have to wear a mask?

MASKS:  MASKS ARE MANDATORY while participating in an indoor activity or indoor appointment.  Masks are encouraged for outdoor events. If you are unable to wear a mask, please call Susan Tomanio at the Senior Center to see if alternative arrangements can be made for you to participate in programs or services virtually.  Masks must be worn covering the nose and the mouth completely. 

What about Social Distancing and Contact Tracing?

Social Distancing:  Everyone is required to maintain a 6-foot social distance while in the Senior Center building. Everyone who is participating in a wellness class outdoors in the parking lot is required to maintain 12 feet of distance during class.

Contact Tracing:  Before participating in any activity or meeting with staff, you must stop at the reception desk and provide your name, address, and phone number for contact tracing in the event someone tests positive for COVID-19.

Do I have to wash or sanitize my hands?

Hand Sanitizer/Hand Washing:  Hand sanitizer will be available at the entrance of the building, near the restrooms, and in the Sugar Hollow Cafe room.  The use of hand sanitizer upon entering the building is mandated.

How do I get into the Senior Center for a program or appointment?

Entrance/Exit:  The sliding front door will serve as the point of entry into the building. All other doors will be locked. You may exit the building out of any of the glass, side doors.

Then what do I do?

Check-In:  Upon arrival at the Senior Center, all visitors are required to “check-in” with a staff member.  Persons will be required to fill out a renewal of membership form so we have the most up to date information. You will also need to use your “Key Tag” as you have done in the past. This will provide the information we need to contact you if necessary. If you are attending a class outside, you must still check in at the front desk. Please arrive early so you have time to check in.

Class Fees: The class fee is $2 per class and will be collected at the front desk. Please allow extra time before class to take care of these requirements. Masks are required during check-in while you are in the building. Those participating in activities over Zoom are asked to send the class fee by check to the Elmwood Hall Senior Center, 10 Elmwood Place, Danbury, CT 06810. Make checks payable to Danbury Senior Center.

Will the bathrooms be available?

Bathrooms: The bathrooms will be available for use. We ask that one person use the bathroom at a time. Bathrooms will be sanitized during the day.  Masks are required for use of the bathroom.

Can I meet friends for coffee and a visit?

Visiting:  People will not be allowed to drop-in and “visit” at this time. Hopefully in the near future, we will establish socially distance outdoor “visiting” times by reservation.  Over time we will hope to establish indoor “visiting” times.

What classes will be available?

Classes will resume gradually and will have space limitations based on the size of our rooms and social distance requirements.  Participants will register for classes in advance. Please do not make multiple reservations for an activity if you are not sure you can attend each session. Our space is limited because of the social distance requirements. The fee for all classes is $2 per class. Indoor classes will require wearing a mask.

Wednesday, May 19 – Strength Training, NEW TIME, 11:15am  (outside and Zoom)

Thursday, May 20, Line Dance Practice, 10:00am  (outside and Zoom)

Monday, May 24, Movers and Shapers, NEW TIME, 11:15am  (outside and Zoom)

Tuesday, May 25 Multimedia Art, NEW TIME, 10:00 am – 12:00 noon (inside and Zoom)

Tuesday, May 25  Chair Yoga, 10:00am (Zoom only)

Monday, June 7, Tai Chi, 10:00am  (inside and Zoom)

TBD, Friday, Zumba Gold, 10:00am  (outside and Zoom)

Strength Training, Movers and Shapers, Line Dancing, Zumba Gold:  These classes will take place outside in our back parking lot. Please come into the front of the senior center to sign in and pay the class fee. Classes will have a limit of 15 students per class with social distance space of 12 feet apart. Masks are not required to be worn during class.  Masks are encouraged outdoors after class if you are unable to maintain 12 feet of social distancing.

Multimedia Art Instruction with Adele:  This will be a Zoom hybrid / indoor class. Participants must pre-register for classes ahead of time to reserve their space.  Class size will be limited for in-person participants. Students will be required to bring their own supplies and are encouraged not to share materials. Participants will be spaced 10 feet apart and will be required to wear masks.

Chair Yoga with Beverly: This class will continue over Zoom until we are allowed to have 2 classes running at the center at the same time. Scheduling conflicts prevent us from choosing an alternative day and time. This class will have unlimited attendees.

Tai Chi with Susan: This will be a Zoom hybrid / indoor class. Participants must pre-register for classes ahead of time to reserve their space. Class size will be limited. Participants will be spaced 10 feet apart and will be required to wear masks.

What about Trivia and Bingo?

Both of these programs will be offered with limited participants in the upcoming months. Trivia will most likely be offered as an in-person and Zoom program. Bingo will be in-person.

Will the breakfast and lunch program resume?

Meals/Eating/Drinking:  Our Senior Center lunch will continue as Grab and Go and Delivery until further notice. We will not be serving breakfast.

We will not be offering coffee, tea or water at this time.  Please bring your own water to class.

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Update – March 11, 2021 – Homebound Seniors: How to Schedule a COVID19 Vaccine

Homebound seniors or their caretakers, family members, etc. can schedule a COVID19 vaccine through the State of CT Department of Health.

Click here to fill out the State of CT Dept of Health form >

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Update – March 2, 2021 – Now scheduling – COVID19 Vaccine: Age 55 plus

Danbury residents 55 plus with an email address (preferred) can schedule a vaccine by clicking here – Register for VAMS through State of CT

Please note that those age 65 and 75 plus are still eligible to receive the vaccine, even though 55 plus are now eligible too.

EACH individual MUST have his or her own unique email address to be entered into VAMS. No duplicate emails can be used. If you do not have email, please have a family member help you obtain an email address so you are able to sign-up in VAMS. Each individual will receive an email from CDC.GOV/VAMS which will allow you to make an appointment to receive the vaccine. Numerous locations for vaccination are available; please choose a location most convenient for you.

Residents 55 plus with No email address can schedule over the phone by calling 877-918-2224. The line will take calls seven days a week from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm and will offer a call-back option when all contact specialists are busy serving other callers. The team will aim to return calls as soon as possible, with the goal of same-day response.

For information, please visit the City of Danbury website by clicking here >

For latest information from the State of Connecticut – Click Here >

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Update – February 5, 2021 – Scheduling a COVID19 Vaccine: Phase 1b Age 75 plus

Danbury residents 75 plus with an email address (preferred) can schedule a vaccine by clicking here – Register for VAMS through State of CT

Please note that EACH individual MUST have his or her own unique email address to be entered into VAMS. No duplicate emails can be used. If you do not have email, please have a family member help you obtain an email address so you are able to sign-up in VAMS. Each individual will receive an email from CDC.GOV/VAMS which will allow you to make an appointment to receive the vaccine. Numerous locations for vaccination are available; please choose a location most convenient for you.

Residents 75 plus with No email address can schedule over the phone by calling 877-918-2224. The line will take calls seven days a week from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm and will offer a call-back option when all contact specialists are busy serving other callers. The team will aim to return calls as soon as possible, with the goal of same-day response.

For latest information from the State of Connecticut – Click Here >

If we can be of assistance with understanding the process for obtaining a vaccine or if you lack transportation to a vaccine site and live in Danbury, please call us at the Senior Center at 203-797-4686.

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Update – January 12, 2021 – Connecticut Covid19 Vaccines: Phasing in 1B – Governor Lamont releases the first information on Phase 1B, which includes seniors age 75 plus. This information was release as part of the Governor’s press conference on January 11, 2021.

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Update – January 5, 2021 – Information on COVID19 Vaccines – City of Danbury

The City of Danbury Health and Human Services Department is providing information regarding COVID19 vaccines for Danbury residents. This information will be updated as more information becomes available. Please click here to go to their website. 

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Update – December 16, 2020 – Kimberly Place Senior and Disable Housing in Danbury Opens Waitlist

The waiting list for Kimberly Place Apts, will be OPEN Tuesday, December 15th and close once (80) 62+ and (20) disabled applications are attained. Please call 203-797–1919 for an application during business hours and provide an email, fax or a pick-up option will be provided. Income restrictions apply.

La lista de espera para Kimberly Place Apts, se ABRIRA el jueves 15 de diciembre y cerrará una vez que se alcancen las solicitudes requeridas (80) 62+ y (20) desabilitados. Llame al 203-797-1919 durante el horario laboral para obtener una solicitud y proporcione un correo electrónico, fax o recoger en la officina. Se aplican restricciones de ingresos.

Click here for more information >

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Update – December 4, 2020 – Flu Shot Clinic Schedule for Wednesday, December 9

The Danbury Senior Center will be hosting an outdoor flu clinic in partnership with the City of Danbury Health Department. It is on Wednesday, December 9 from 10:00 am – 12 noon. No appointment is necessary. Please park in the senior center parking lot and walk to the front entrance of the building. The Health Department will be set up outside the front doors of the senior center. Please remember to wear your mask, observe social distancing, and bring your Medicare or insurance cards.

Elmwood Hall Senior Center Flu Clinic Flyer

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Update – December 1, 2020 – Danbury Housing Authority Opens Wait List for Two Senior Housing Buildings

PUBLIC NOTICE The Housing Authority of the City of Danbury is pleased to announce the opening of the following specific wait lists: Federal Elderly (Putnam Towers and Wooster Manor) Opening Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at 9:00AM and remaining open until further notice. Pre-applications will only be accepted by mail or can be dropped off in the drop box at the address below. Pre-applications postmarked or received before the above date and time will NOT be accepted. Duplicate applications will be rejected. You must be 62 years of age or older, meet the income limits and meet the occupancy requirements of a 1-bedroom unit. INCOME LIMITS 1 PERSON 2 PERSONS Income Limits $57,050 $65,200 Pre-applications will be available online beginning November 24, 2020. Qualified pre-applications will place the household on to the wait list. Persons that require assistance completing pre-applications or would like to request a reasonable accommodation may contact our office for assistance. Housing Authority of the City of Danbury Admissions and Occupancy Department 2 Mill Ridge Road, Danbury, CT 06811 203-744-2500 The Housing Authority is an Equal Housing Opportunity Provider.

Click here for link to Housing Authority City of Danbury >

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Update – November 23, 2020 – The Elmwood Extra Read All About It! Now published, Elmwood Hall – Danbury Seniors Center’s December 2020 / January 2021 newsletter. Click here >

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Update – November 5, 2020 – For the latest information on  Flu Shots and Covid19 Testing  in Danbury, please click the highlighted links.

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Update – October 5, 2020 – The Elmwood Extra Read All About It! Now published, Elmwood Hall – Danbury Seniors Center’s October / November 2020 newsletter. Click here >

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Update – September 29, 2020 – Flu Shots and COVID19 Testing

Flu Shots: Flu shot clinic will not be held at the Elmwood Hall Senior Center this year due to COVID19. Here are a few resources as to where you can get your flu shot this year. 1. Many primary care doctors offer the flu shot. 2. Area pharmacies are offering flu shots. 3. The Community Health Center, located at 8 Delay Street in Danbury offers flu shots. No appointment is needed. Flu shot hours are Mon-Fri 9am – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm. Their number is 203-797-8330.

COVID19 Testing: Free COVID19 testing is available 1. Greater Danbury Community Health Center located at 120 Main Street (rear lot). Call 203-456-1413 to set up an appointment. 2. Community Health Center, 8 Delay Street. Walk up or drive up testing is available. No appointment required, but they do encourage you to call ahead 475-241-0740. Hours 9am – 1pm.

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Update – August 25, 2020 – The Elmwood Extra Read All About It! Now published, Elmwood Hall – Danbury Seniors Centers August – September 2020 newsletter. Click here >

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Update – August 6, 2020 – STORM RESPONSE INFORMATION – CITY OF DANBURY.  Click here for Storm Response Information – City of Danbury >

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Update July 28, 2020 – Just a friendly reminder that all of our programs, on or off-site, are still cancelled, as the City of Danbury and the State of CT continue to recommend that seniors stay home and stay safe. We invite you to enjoy our virtual program.

Click here for virtual programs >

Staff is still reporting to the senior center so do not hesitate to call if we can help with any senior issues or needs. Our phone number is 203-797-4686.

We miss our senior center members!

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Update June 24, 2020 – As we continue to adjust to a new normal, which is constantly changing due to COVID19, we have reformatted our newsletter to more accurately reflect our current programing. Click here is the NEW Elmwood Extra, June July 2020!

Update May 9, 2020 – Our very popular Strength Training class with instructor Coleen Krempel can now be found under the Virtual Activities and Programs section of this website. Join Coleen to stay active and maintain your strength. You can also click here to go directly to that page.

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Update May 5, 2020 – Two of our Danbury Senior Center classes, “Line Dancing with Kevin and Susan” and “Gentle Flow Yoga with Beverly” are now virtual and on this website for you to enjoy. They are located under the section Virtual Activities and Programs. You can also click here to be taken to that page. More to come soon!

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Update April 30, 2020 – Department of Elderly Services  / Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center response to COVID19.

Resource and Referral / Case Management Over the Phone – While the Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center building is closed, staff are working in shifts at the center and from home. Staff is here to answer questions and provide information on resources in the community, such as how to acquire food, how to get Meals on Wheels, transportation, home care, SNAP benefits, etc.

Congregate meal site turned into a meals on wheels delivery program – Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center was a congregate meal site for seniors. Now 4 of the 5 meals are delivered to Danbury seniors twice a week.

Friendly Visitor Over the Phone Program – Seniors who are now isolated at home can receive a weekly phone call from senior center staff to check in on their well-being.

CHOICES Over the Phone. (Connecticut’s program for Health Insurance Assistance, Outreach, Information and Referral, Counseling, Eligibility Screening, i.e. Medicare A, B, D, Advantage, Medigap, Medicare Savings) –  A CHOICES certified counselor and center staff member assists seniors with Medicare A, B, D, Medicare Advantage plans, Medigap plans and the Medicare Savings program. Resources for some DSS benefits are discussed.

Rent Rebate Over the Phone – The State of CT Rent Rebate program for 2019 began on April 1 of this year.  Applications will be processed over the phone and through the mail for the remainder of the program year.

Virtual Activities / Wellness Classes – Wellness classes will soon be posted under the “Classes and Events” section of this website. Check back for an update.

For additional resources from the City of Danbury, click here >

For additional resources for seniors from the Danbury’s Age Well Community Council, click here >

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Update – March 17, 2020 – Even though the Senior Center is closed, staff are available by phone. Our phone number is 203-797-4686.

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Update – March 17, 2020

If you are a homebound senior and want meals on wheels call Western CT Area Agency on Aging at 800-994-9422 or 203-757-5449. They are arranging for a 2 week supply of meals to be delivered to homebound seniors

The Department of Elderly Services – Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center is in the process of working with the State of CT  – Western CT Area Agency on Aging to develop Grab and Go meals for seniors who are registered at the Danbury Senior Center Congregate site. We will have more details on a start date and how to obtain these meals shortly.

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CLOSED – UPDATE – March 16, 11:45am  – Important Changes from Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center

Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center is now closed until further notice.

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UPDATE  — March 16, 2020 

The following are Important Changes from Elmwood Hall- Danbury Senior Center

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Sites Service Suspended Until Further Notice

As coronavirus (COVID-19) developments change hour by hour, AARP Foundation is doing its part to flatten the curve of transmission. A top priority for us is ensuring we are protecting those most at risk, including our volunteers and taxpayers. Therefore, we are suspending AARP Foundation Tax-Aide services beginning March 16 until further notice. 

We will continue to assess whether we can open again in some or all sites for the remainder of the tax season and if the tax season is extended.

The Breakfast Program is now canceled until further notice.

The Senior Nutrition Lunch Program will serve lunch today, and tomorrow, Tuesday, March 17.

In addition, after lunch is served today, March 16, the Elmwood Hall- Danbury Senior Center building will close at 1:00pm with amended hours 8:30 – 1:00 Monday – Friday.

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March 12, 2020

COVID-19 – Department of Elderly Services – Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center

In light of new information, as you may be aware, the State of CT has declared a public health emergency in response to COVID-19. The Department of Elderly Services and  Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center are getting daily guidance from the City of Danbury Public Health Department and the Mayor’s Office.

Due to current guidance from public health officials and in the interest of protecting the high-risk populations we serve, the Elmwood Hall Senior Center is cancelling all programs except the Breakfast Program, Senior Nutrition Lunch program, and the AARP Tax Assistance Program. We will continue to administer the State of CT Rent Rebate program. The Elmwood Hall Senior Center will remain open to assist seniors, but all activities, programs and events, except for those mentioned above have been cancelled until the end of March.

Our interest is to continue serving our senior population while maintaining the safety and health of our staff and public.

We also continue to follow best hygiene practices for workplaces – including regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and equipment in our buildings, making hand sanitizer available to staff and patrons, and encouraging frequent hand-washing.

We will continue to work with our community partner, CW Resources, in an attempt to remain an open congregate meal site. This may change at any time. In the event this does change, we are exploring other avenues in conjunction with our local and state partners.

We encourage our senior members of Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center to stay home if they are feeling ill or are simply concerned about potential exposure. Seniors with chronic diseases and underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer, and diabetes are at particular risk.

We will continue to communicate any further impacts to the Department of Elderly Services and Elmwood Hall – Danbury Senior Center, as a result of COVID-19. In the meantime, our staff will be available by phone to continue to provide referrals as available for services for the senior population.

Thank you for your patience as we work through this developing situation.

Questions regarding the spread of COVID-19 can be directed to United Way’s 2-1-1 hotline. You can also text “CTCOVID” to 898211. To learn more, please visit the city website.