Senior Life in Rockville Centre

Adults 60 and over in Rockville Centre and the surrounding communities have come to rely on the Leonard Sandel Senior Center to take part in fun events and programs tailored for their age group. For an annual fee of $125 (for residents of Rockville Centre, residents of other communities pay $275), members gain access to a variety of classes and programs. The programs can range from physical fitness classes like aerobics with weights and yoga, to mentally stimulating activities like book clubs and knitting. If you aren’t able to cover the fee, the center even offers confidential financial assistance through its social work office.

In addition to the programs mentioned, the Sandel Center, led by Director Chris O’Leary, offers seniors a variety of services they may not be able to access anywhere else. The licensed clinical social worker at the center’s social work office is available to assist Sandel members with Medicare, Medicaid, food stamps, Able Ride and EPIC. The center also offers members the opportunity to arrange transportation to and from medical appointments. Weekly supermarket trips for those who

need it are offered on Tuesdays as well. However, due to the ongoing threat of the coronavirus, the Sandel Center has been unable carry out its regular programming in person. To keep members engaged, the center launched Sandel TV. Every day at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., the Sandel Center broadcasts the programs only members are usually able to attend. Sandel TV can be viewed on Optimum’s channel 18, and Verizon’s channel 37. Segments can be found online at the Sandel Center’s official Facebook page and website www. rvcny.us.

Tune in to Sandel TV to keep up with the Sandel Senior Center, or if you’re looking to inquire about membership, call (516) 678-9245.

Photos by Sue Grieco/Herald Top Photo: The Rat Pack sings "Come Fly Away" at a tribute concert held at Sandel Center in March. Concert-goers enjoyed the music of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin.