Senior centers across the Los Angeles area serve as vital social hubs, but they vary widely in space, services, and funding. On a recent visit, CalMatters reporters saw big differences between well-resourced Culver City and smaller sites in Lincoln Heights and Watts. Even so, each center gives older adults a place to connect and feel less alone. Many people come after losing a spouse. Staff and researchers say new friendships can protect health. Meals also drive attendance. Free or low-cost lunches pull people inside. Centers track little data on who they serve. That lack of proof of impact can hurt funding.
