Welcome and Include All

Older Adult Centers

Our centers are more than just a space—they’re a second home for older adults.

Selfhelp has five Older Adult Centers across NYC that bring social services, nutritious meals, community events, and educational classes within reach.

We serve more than 8,000 adults who are over 60. Each Center offers programs tailored to the residents of their community, respecting local holidays and traditions.

We encourage older New Yorkers to visit – to one, or to all five! With so many programs on offer, you are sure to find one that’s perfect for you – and make a whole new group of friends who share your interests and passions!

GENERAL LIST OF SERVICES

Nutrition

We provide daily nutritious meals designed to enhance community health. With a diverse menu crafted by our skilled chefs and with the input of our membership, we ensure each dish balances taste and nutritional needs. The daily changing menu offers variety while catering to the dietary requirements of older adults.

Nutrition education and promotion workshops promote healthy eating and healthy habits for our members.  These activities include all levels of exercise classes, including chair yoga, Zumba, Tai Chi, and others to assist with chronic disease prevention and management, improve or maintain quality of life, promote physical and mental health, increase awareness and understanding of healthy lifestyles.

Concerts & Performances & Events

We celebrate cultural diversity and community spirit with vibrant events and performances during special festivals like Lunar New Year, St. Patrick’s Day, Fourth of July, and more! These occasions feature performances and activities that bring joy and engagement to all participants. Our Advisory Councils, made up of members from within the OAC community, advise on which holidays are most meaningful for the center and to respect all cultures represented within the membership.

Educational Programs

We offer a vibrant educational programs at each of our locations.. Members can enjoy a variety of group classes, including exercise, technology, art, and more. We also have special visitors who share insights on topics like avoiding spam, healthy eating, and visits from our local Elected officials to keep us informed on important community topics. Our Advisory Councils work with our OAC Director to create monthly schedules that excite and interest the members and to encourage active social participation by as many members as possible.

Information and Referrals

Our knowledgeable team can refer to local resources and services, including for legal assistance, meal delivery, health care, and long-term care services.

Social Worker Assistance

We provide dedicated assistance to enhance the well-being and quality of life for our community members. Social workers are available to help members navigate and solve a variety of challenges, offering personalized support and guidance. Services include help with benefits and entitlement applications and other short-term needs.

Each OAC maintains a robust calendar of events to see which OAC you want to visit this month! Programming varies from one site to the next. We encourage all New Yorkers 60+ to visit. With so many options, you are sure to find one that’s perfect for you – and make a whole new group of friends who share your interests and passions! Contact information can be found below by clicking each box.

OUR FIVE OLDER ADULT CENTERS

Selfhelp Older Adult Centers

5 Videos
Introduction

Welcome to Austin Street Older Adult Center, part of Selfhelp Community Services! 🌟 Located in Forest Hills, our center is a warm and welcoming space dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults in the community.

We offer a variety of programs and services to promote health, independence, and social connection. From nutritious kosher/Glatt meals served daily to engaging activities like arts and crafts, exercise classes, cultural programs, and lifelong learning workshops, there’s something for everyone. We also provide essential support services, including case assistance, benefits counseling, and wellness programs, ensuring that every member feels supported and valued.

We’re all about creating a safe, vibrant, and inclusive environment where older adults can learn, grow, and connect. Join us and be part of our thriving community!

  • Program Director: Barrington McFarlane
  • Address: 106-06 Queens Boulevard, Forest Hills, NY 11375
  • Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Austin Street Older Adult Center is supported by NYS Office for the Aging, NYC Aging, NYS Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr., NYS Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi, NYC Councilmember Lynn Schulman, Congresswoman Grace Meng, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards.

TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM TO MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS

Free Round-Trip Transportation

Free round-trip transportation to/from medical appointments for older adults living in specific neighborhoods in Queens as well as Council district 35 in Brooklyn.

How to Reserve

To reserve your car, please call (718) 559-4352, Monday to Friday between 9 AM – 12 PM, one day in advance of your trip. 

2025 Eligibility

Residents across Queens, including those of City Council districts 19, 30, 20, 29, and 35, and residents of Glendale, Queens.

Call for Details

Some restrictions apply, please call for details. Program will operate until funds are depleted.

Generously funded by NYC Council grants from

  • Council District 19 Councilmember Vickie Paladino
  • District 20 Councilmember Sandra Ung
  • District 29 Councilmember Lynn Schulman
  • District 30 Councilmember Robert Holden
  • District 32 (Glendale Only) Councilmember Joann Ariola
  • District 35 Councilmember Crystal Hudson – Brooklyn

TESTIMONIAL

FOLLOW US

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OUR PARTNERS

NYC Department of Aging
New York State of Opportunity Office for the Aging

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Have a question about our senior centers? Write us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

You can also call us at 212-971-7600.