In Spring 2023, Stoughton Area Senior Center conducted a survey to evaluate our effectiveness, generate ideas and prioritize future goals as SASC approaches another national and state re-accreditation process. Below is a summary of the results. The full report is available here and upon request.
Break-down of 110 respondents:
49 years or younger = 0.9%
50-59 years = 5.5%
60-69 years = 20%
70-79 years = 41.8%
80-89 years = 27.3%
90+ years = 4.5%
84.4% are retired or not working.
79.8% are residents of Stoughton.
79.8% say they participate at the SASC.
As a result of participating at SASC:
66.4% would recommend the SASC to a friend.
59.1% say they learn new things.
40.9% say they see friends often/make new friends.
30% say they are more physically active.
18.2% say they do not participate.
Reasons some do not attend:
20% say parking is difficult at the SASC.
19.1% say they are too busy / have no time.
Most beneficial pages of the Yahara Senior News monthly newsletter:
78.3% Programs & Activities
69.8% News & Information
49.1% Meal Site Menu
48.1% Local Services and Support
Open-Ended Questions:
Several open-ended questions were asked to gather information on suggestions for improving parking issues; thoughts on Kim’s Thursday Meals (dine-in and drive-thru); ideas for new and current programming; virtual programming interests; recommendations for fundraising campaigns; and preferences for volunteer opportunities. For a list of responses see the full SASC Survey Results Report.
Conclusions/Observations:
SASC fills a niche for many seniors in the Stoughton area. It is a community space that allows seniors to gather socially, receive support, find answers to questions and to be entertained. When asked for suggestions for improvement, many simply complimented the staff on the great job that was being done. Many responses were very creative, and maybe a little wishful: swimming pool, sauna. . There were many suggestions for new programs including travel, both short and long distances, hobby-based such as sewing, a store to sell crafted items and always more movies and music.
The responses seem to indicate enthusiasm for the programs and services that are provided with some wariness of Covid 19 and pandemic safety measures. With all the current programs and the many that were suggested, the new annex space will be well-used, and the expanded wood workshop space will be much appreciated. Parking was an issue for many respondents and was listed as a reason that more people do not come to the center. This too should be given consideration.
Overall, the survey shows a satisfaction with the SASC on the part of Stoughton area seniors who participated in this survey. This is their community space and many use it as both a social gathering space and support for various needs.
