Senior center closure extended

Jan 24, 2022

Dartmouth’s senior center will remain closed until at least mid-February, Council on Aging Director Amy DiPietro announced Monday.

The center, which closed Dec. 28 due to rising Covid-19 cases in town, was initially set to reopen Jan. 18. As virus transmission surged to record heights, officials opted to keep the center closed through the remainder of the month, in hopes of reopening Feb. 1.

DiPietro said that while trends appear to be leveling off, Public Health Director Chris Michaud recommended the building “remain closed to the public until further notice.”

Officials will re-evaluate the closure again next week, DiPitero said.

“We’re hoping to open the week of Feb. 7, but realistically, it will probably be the middle of February,” she said

Although the center doors are closed to the public, staff members are still working and services remain available to Dartmouth’s seniors, DiPietro said.

Transportation to medical appointments will remain available for residents in need, she said. 

Those riding to the appointments are encouraged to mask up while in the vehicles.

Clinicians will also be available at the center by appointment only.

Council on Aging programs such as Zumba and yoga will be available for viewing on channel 18 in Dartmouth, or online through DCTV’s website at www.dartmouthtv.com and its YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/dartmouthcommunitymedia.