‘My Turn’ – Senior Transitional Program

“My Turn” is a senior transitional program for aging adults with intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD). The program originated when it was realized that this is the first generation to face the dilemma of aging individuals with I/DD. Typical aging programs do not work for this group of individuals, lacking the supports needed for them to be successful. The Enrichment Center developed an advisory committee inviting those who would benefit from this program to help design the program. Feeling like this population has been told what to do their entire life, we felt like they should guide us in this new development, thus the name “My Turn”.

Since September 2011, “My Turn” has engaged in group activities geared towards maintaining skills and retaining cognitive abilities. These activities include group exercise, walking, creating memory books, puzzles, and word trivia. Students also participate in community activities such as visiting exhibits at SECCA, bowling, Health Fairs, picnics, and shopping.

“My Turn” teaches aging individuals about the physical and emotional changes that occur as they age. The benefit of “My Turn” is that due to similar demographics, they are able to share and relate past experiences, current events, and assist each other as they continue to experience life’s changes together.