24 Jul Senior Center updates flooring
In June, the McPherson Senior Center received a $10,000 grant from the McPherson County Community Foundation’s general grants cycle.
The funding will be used to install and replace carpet in several areas of the facility and add a protective coating to a concrete hallway. According to Director Sally Scott, installation is scheduled to begin Monday, July 28.
Scott said the switch to carpeting in multiple areas is primarily aimed at improving comfort and safety. Currently, patrons must navigate four different types of flooring when moving throughout the facility. The new layout will reduce that to two.
The upgrades also address flooring that has been damaged or heavily worn over time. Several rooms have carpeting that has not been replaced in decades, and the bingo area has sustained floor damage from years of chair movement. The current flooring layout also presents as mismatched; this change will provide an even consistent look to the facility.
“I think our seniors deserve a nice, clean area,” Scott said. “We are hoping that the carpet will also deaden some of the sound.”
Carpet will be installed in four accessible areas of the center, with additional replacement in several offices. According to Scott, carpet offers a non-slip, even surface that is easier for seniors with limited mobility to navigate, especially during physical activity programs and foot care services. The current tile flooring in many areas is damaged and poses a safety risk.
“Our seniors are using walkers and canes,” Scott said. “Having a flat, clean surface is big for safety.”
The McPherson Senior Center serves as a vital hub for older adults in the community, connecting with nearly 1,900 patrons each month through its wide range of activities, transportation services, and meal programs.
This grant was awarded prior to the facility experiencing flooding in July. Scott confirmed the affected areas did not include any of the spaces where carpet will be installed. Scott also noted that the cause of the flooding has been resolved and that cleanup is underway. However, the center’s food service will remain temporarily suspended.