Privacy, Rules of Conduct, Governance, and Accessibility
Senior Planet values the unique contributions of all participants and visitors and strives to maintain an open, welcoming, and inclusive environment—both online and in-person. Whether engaging in a class, event, program, or community discussion, we encourage thoughtful, civil, and respectful participation. By entering the Center or registering for any in-person program, participants automatically agree to abide by these rules of conduct.
To help us create a positive experience for everyone, all contributions—whether made in writing, in conversation, or through other forms of participation—are expected to follow the guidelines outlined below.
Privacy:
Senior Planet does not permit or endorse any expression or behavior that is disrespectful toward individuals, groups, beliefs, opinions, or ideas. This applies equally to online interactions (such as comments, posts, or messages) and to in-person participation (such as spoken remarks or conduct during programs and events).
In addition, sharing personally identifiable information—your own or others’—is not allowed in any setting. Any comments, statements, or behaviors that violate these rules may be removed, addressed directly, or result in further action to maintain a safe and respectful environment for all.
To see our privacy policy, click here.
Senior Planet In-Person – Rules of Conduct:
Senior Planet’s purpose is to enable older adults to come together and find ways to learn, work, create, exercise, and thrive in today’s digital age play a critical role in:
Policy Statement: All employees, participants, volunteers, and guests are required to:
Compliance: Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action at the discretion of Senior Planet staff. Consequences may include a verbal or written warning from an instructor, staff member, or Center Manager, and repeated or serious violations will lead to removal from the class and/or loss of access to Senior Planet centers and programs.
Grievances Procedure
The OATS Commitment:
At OATS, we are committed to providing excellent experiences in all of our programs and services. If, for any reason, you are not satisfied with your experience (whether related to the site, lab, trainer, class, or other aspect of participation), you have the right to share your concerns and expect they will be addressed promptly, respectfully, and confidentially.
How to Share a Concern:
Your feedback helps us improve, and we are committed to ensuring that all participants feel heard, respected, and supported.
Filing a Complaint:
You may file a complaint regarding your experience with any service, staff member, or participant by emailing or calling the contact listed above. All participants have the right to have their concerns heard privately and addressed promptly. After submitting a complaint, you will be contacted within one week, and a decision should be shared with you within three weeks. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you may appeal to the OATS Board of Directors by contacting info@seniorplanet.org. If you are located in New York City, NY you may also appeal the Board’s decision by contacting the NYC Department for the Aging by calling 311. To the extent possible, all information related to your complaint or grievance will be handled in a private and confidential manner.
If you are located in Florida, you may contact the Florida Department of Elder Affairs Elder Helpline at 305-670-HELP or toll-free at 1-800-96-ELDER. To the extent possible, all information related to your complaint or grievance will be handled in a private and confidential manner.
The Senior Bill of Rights: As a Senior Planet participant, you have rights!
Accessibility at Senior Planet centers:
Senior Planet centers strive to provide an accessible, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all visitors, participants, and patrons. We offer accessible facilities and programming that is open to all older adults. For individuals with disabilities, we provide the following services and resources:
For Individuals with Visual Impairments
The center offers a range of assistive technologies, including screen readers and text-enlargement tools, available on all devices used for classes, public access, and special presentations.
For Individuals with Hearing Impairments
Assistive-hearing features are integrated into tablets, desktop computers, Chromebooks, and other devices used in our programs. The center is equipped with a robust audio system that ensures clear sound across all areas.
OATS is committed to providing effective communication access for all participants, including American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation through partner Joyful Signing. Upon request, ASL interpretation may be provided via a virtual (video remote interpreting) option, or in person when available based on the availability of qualified interpreters in the program’s location.
To help ensure availability, we ask that requests be submitted at least seven (7) days in advance of the scheduled session, whenever possible. Requests received with less notice will be accommodated to the fullest extent possible; however, interpreter availability cannot be guaranteed. When an interpreter is unavailable, we will consult with participants to identify appropriate alternative communication supports, such as real-time captioning or other appropriate accommodations, to ensure meaningful access.
For Individuals with Mobility Impairments
The center provides accessible entrances, wheelchair-friendly programming spaces, and restrooms equipped with wide doorways and multi-wall support rails. Designated seating areas with ample space are also available for participants using mobility devices.
Service Animals
Service animals are welcome in all areas of the center.
Companions or Caregivers
Visitors who require the assistance of a companion are welcome to bring someone with them. Depending on the activity, the companion may need to register for the class, provide advance notice to Center staff to help manage capacity, or, in some cases, wait outside the classroom until the session concludes. Staff will work with you to ensure the companion’s presence provides a safe and comfortable experience for all participants.
Additional Accommodations
If our existing accommodations do not meet your accessibility needs, we are committed to working with you to identify reasonable solutions. Please contact us to let us know how we can best support your full participation in Center activities. You may contact us directly by emailing info@seniorplanet.org or calling 888-713-3495.
OATS will respond promptly and may engage the individual or their representative in a conversation to gather any additional information needed to develop an appropriate solution.
Senior Planet centers always welcome comments and suggestions on how we can continue to improve our programs for visitors with disabilities. Please feel free to visit during our operating hours or contact us at any time.
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