Senior center in Orcutt reopens recreational activities following safety protocols

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Kenneth Antrim is a John Grisham fan.

He loves checking out books at the oasis Senior living center library.

"It’s been great to be able to just bring some back and take some back I’ve enjoyed it," said Antrim.

After nearly a year of closure due to the pandemic, members are excited to finally be able to interact in person.

Over the months they didn’t get to chat in person like they can today.

"Oh no it was not easy everybody’s wearing masks and for some people it was very isolating. Didn’t see you were staying home you didn’t see your family you didn’t see your friends that you would see here at three or four days a week," said member Sandy Matson of the Oasis Senior Center.

But all that has changed.

"It’s so amazing to see their faces their smiles their interaction ... the hugs ... just the well-being everybody feels like we are getting back into life again because life has literally stopped," said Matson.

"Every single person that walks through the doors is important. We need to find a way that we can help them stay strong," said executive director Michelle Southwick of the Oasis Senior Center

Staff say while most of their members are vaccinated, they’re continuing to help balance everyone’s physical and mental Health.

While mask wearing isn’t required at the Orcutt facility, some are choosing to anyway for their safety.

Seniors are enjoying classes including yoga, arts and crafts and other recreational activities.