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The New Hampshire Association of Senior Centers, or NHASC, is a statewide, professional, non-profit organization dedicated to fostering the multipurpose nature of senior centers and professional development of senior center management. The organization was formed in 1991 by a group of visionaries who recognized the importance of properly staffed, organized Senior Centers in every community in the State.

We hope you find our website helpful in learning more about Senior Centers across New Hampshire and what they have to offer our older citizens as well as about our organization and the services we may provide to develop the Senior Center professional.


The senior center as we know it today was first introduced in New York City in 1943 to provide social activities, nutritious meals and case management to adults aged 60 and older, particularly those with low incomes. Sixty-four years later, senior centers are recognized as one of the most widely utilized services supported by the Older Americans Act of 1965. An estimated 15,000 centers are helping millions of older adults from all walks of life to thrive in their communities.




Today's senior centers are evolving to reflect a new view of aging that empowers the people they serve. They're connecting older adults with meaningful work and volunteer opportunities, and increasing their access to valuable benefits and resources. Through evidenced-based program, they're helping them manage their health and finances so they can continue to live in their homes as long as possible. From career counseling and financial planning to tools for staying healthy, there is no doubt senior centers work!




Senior centers are designated as community focal points through the Older Americans Act. The National Institute of Senior Centers defines a senior center as a place where "older adults come together for services and activities that reflect their experience and skills, respond to their diverse needs and interests, enhance their dignity, support their independence, and encourage their involvement in and with the center and the community."




Not only do senior centers offer helpful resources to older adults, they serve the entire community with information on aging; support for family caregivers, training professionals, lay leaders and students; and developments of innovative approaches to addressing aging issues.




While senior centers typically provide nutrition, recreation, social and educational services, and comprehensive information and referral, many centers are adding new programs such as fitness activities and Internet training to meet the needs and interests of the new generation of seniors.


Among the most common services offered at a senior center are

Health and wellness programs

Arts and humanities

Intergenerational programs

Employment assistance

Community action opportunities and social networking opportunities

Transportation services

Volunteer opportunities

Educational opportunities

Information and referral

Financial assistance

Meal and nutrition programs

Leisure travel