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Explore Cleveland and the Surrounding Areas
One of the keys to aging well is staying connected to the people, places, and activities that give life meaning. Research consistently shows that social engagement, lifelong learning, physical activity, and a sense of belonging can support health and well-being as we age.
For older adults in Jewish Cleveland, there are many ways to stay connected to community. Whether through shared meals, cultural experiences, volunteer opportunities, fitness programs, or new friendships, meaningful engagement can help people thrive at every stage of life.
Just ask Sandi Horwitz, a longtime member of the Mandel JCC. When she retired, she wondered, “How will I fill my time?” These days, that question has a very full answer.
“We are social by nature,” said Julia DiBaggio, creative aging manager at the Mandel JCC. Staying socially, physically, and spiritually engaged is one of the most powerful things older adults can do for their well-being, she said. Here are five ways to find that connection:
1. Get Social At Mealtime.
Sharing a meal has a way of building community all on its own. It doesn’t have to be complicated — a phone call to catch up over coffee, an invitation to lunch, or a standing weekly meal with friends can go a long way. The Mandel JCC’s Lunch Plus program meets Monday through Friday from 10 am–12:30 pm offering kosher lunch, a daily activity, and free transportation. “This program is great for people who want to know they have some place to go each day, or need transportation,” DiBaggio said. For something more occasional, the Living L’Chayim series pairs a holiday-themed activity with a shared meal.
2. Get Active.
Staying physically active is critical not just for a longer life, but for what DiBaggio calls an increased “health span.” That doesn’t have to mean a formal class — a daily walk or gentle stretching at home counts. For those looking for more structure, the Mandel JCC’s Prime Time Wellness Club meets twice a month from November through May, opening each session with 45 minutes of movement — from Tai Chi to chair yoga, spin, and more — before settling into lunch and a guest lecture, with topics ranging from the Apollo program to Jewish genealogy. “It’s great for the active adult with a full schedule that wants community and some consistency in their schedule,” DiBaggio said.
“It’s great for the active adult with a full schedule that wants community and some consistency in their schedule.”
Julia DiBaggio, creative aging manager at the Mandel JCC
3. Explore Cleveland and the Surrounding Areas.
From day trips to local history tours, there are countless ways for older adults to get out and experience something new. The Mandel JCC’s Destinations program is one example, offering day trips during the warmer months. This past summer, Horwitz traveled to Holden Arboretum, the Chautauqua Institution to hear historian Ken Burns speak, and on a bus tour tracing the history of Jewish migration from downtown Cleveland to the eastern suburbs. But exploration and lifelong learning don’t have to involve travel or a significant expense. Local gems like the Roe Green Gallery at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Siegal Lifelong Learning, and local synagogues all offer opportunities to discover new interests, deepen knowledge, and connect with others.
4. Cultural Engagement.
Connecting with Jewish culture doesn’t require a special event — watching a Jewish film or visiting a local museum are easy places to start. For example, The Maltz Museum offers a discounted rate for adults age 60+ to view their rotating and permanent exhibits. Every fall, the Cleveland Jewish FilmFest brings people together each year for screenings exploring Jewish culture, history, and identity on screen. For the past ten years, Horwitz and her husband haven’t missed a screening. “It has expanded our understanding of cultural, religious, and historical aspects of Judaism through film,” she said.
5. Build New Friendships.
New friendships often start small — saying yes to an invitation, striking up a conversation at synagogue, volunteering alongside others, or simply showing up to something regularly enough to become a familiar face. Volunteering can be an especially meaningful way to build connections, giving older adults opportunities to share their time and talents while working toward something that benefits the broader community. Whether helping at a food pantry, supporting a synagogue or Jewish organization, mentoring others, or lending a hand at a community event, volunteering can create a sense of purpose while bringing people together. For example, volunteering with Jewish Family Service Association (JFSA) to deliver home-delivered meals offers a chance to give back while building a meaningful connection with a homebound older adult. A meal delivery can be more than dropping off food — it can provide an opportunity to share a conversation and develop a new friendship while making a tangible difference.
“Find something of interest, and just get out and do it.”
Julia DiBaggio, creative aging manager at the Mandel JCC
DiBaggio’s advice for anyone wondering where to start is simple: “Find something of interest, and just get out and do it.”
Not sure which option is the best fit for you? We’re here to help.
CONTACT US AT 216-292-INFO (4636) FOR MORE INFORMATION
Ways to Connect
Looking for a little more connection this High Holiday season? Start with one small step:
- Reach out to someone you care about. Send a holiday greeting, make a phone call, or invite a friend or family member to share a meal.
- Find a way to celebrate. Check the Jewish Cleveland community calendar for High Holiday services, programs, meals, and other opportunities to gather and connect.
- Ask for help finding connection. Whether you’re looking for Jewish programming at a care facility, a learning opportunity, or a way to get more involved, reach out to a local Jewish organization or community professional who can help you find the right fit.
Contact us at 216-292-INFO (4636) for more information.
