Updated: This story has been updated with information from senior center director Amy DiPietro.

The Dartmouth Council on Aging Senior Center has closed its doors through Jan. 18, center officials have announced.

The decision was made due to an increase in overall Covid cases because of the Omicron variant and the spread of the illness through holiday gatherings, center officials said.

The story has been updated with information from senior center director Amy DiPietro.

Classes, congregate meals and programs are but staff members are still working and services will be available, senior director Amy DiPietro said. 

After discussions with the Board of Health and in anticipation of more holiday gatherings this week, senior center staff decided this would “be a good time to have a quick pause to make sure everyone stays well and healthy so we can start the new year on a healthy note,’’ DiPietro said. Every measure we take is so we keep operating the way we have been been.’’

The center is scheduled to reopen Tuesday, Jan. 18. 

DiPietro stressed that services will still be available for seniors, including Meals on Wheels, medical equipment lending programs and the center’s food bank. Transportation to medical appointments will be available by appointment.

“Nobody should be going without food,’’ she said. Seniors who might need extra assistance, such as additional Meals on Wheels deliveries to offset the meals they might have been served at the center, should call the center at  (508) 999-4717.

The center’s thrift shop will be closed through Monday, Jan. 10. The shop will close again Jan. 20, a schedule that was based on the availability of volunteers and is not related to Covid cases, DiPietro said. 

She encouraged seniors to call with any other questions or concerns. “We are still here for anyone who needs anything,’’ she said. “We will try to accommodate any needs a senior has.’’