Seniors' name change not enough?

A name change for the Ettalong Senior Citizens' centre does not appear to have been enough to attract the Baby Boomer generation to the centre.

With attendances knocked by its extended closure to remove asbestos, the new image was adopted in attempt to make the centre more relevant.

The centre's coordinator, Ms Rhondda Gibson from Gosford Council, said: "In 2006, due to changes in population demographics, Professor Bill Bellew was asked to provide information to council about the direction for the future.

"The research study stated that there was a general move by the Baby Boomers' population towards more flexible approaches to learning, with activities such as computer skills, coffee shop socialisation and different exercise options.

"During this research, it was found that the term 'senior citizens' was felt to be an outdated one, carrying images of very old or frail aged and not consistent with current thinking about positive ageing.

"As a result of this research in 2009 Gosford council adopted the name change from Ettalong Senior Citizens to Ettalong 50+ Leisure and Learning Centre."

The council was now promoting the new range of activities available at the centre.

These included table tennis, tai chi, indoor bowls, dancing and group exercise classes, painting, card and board games as well as yoga.

Ms Gibson said the Ettalong centre was always looking for more people to join up and get involved.

"New members over the age of 50 are welcome to join the centre and inquiries can be made on 4341 3222."

The centre is located on the corner of Broken Bay Rd and Karingi St, Ettalong.

Email, 1 Oct 2010 Rhondda Gibson, Gosford Council