Last Friday four regional aging service access point (ASAP) network organizations, whose role is to connect elders with services that allow them to stay in their homes, held an event for state legislators urging they continue to support and fund these programs.
Bristol Aging & Wellness (formerly Bristol Elder Services), based in Fall River, partnered with Coastline in New Bedford, Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands, in South Dennis and Old Colony Elder Services in Brockton to express concern that funding cuts on both the state and federal level could negatively impact the well-being of their clients. Nicole Long of Old Colony Elder Services says she and her colleagues provide a service that is proven to benefit seniors.
As in-home services for the elderly grow in popularity, so do efforts toward expansion. Justin Leeds, CEO of Coastline says one such initiative is Hospital to Home, which is currently achieving success as a statewide pilot program.
Maryanne Ryan, CEO of Elder Services of Cape Cod & the Islands hopes an increase in funding will go hand in hand with working with providers to fill available jobs at higher wages.
Along with advocating for adequate funding from the state, the organizations also receive funding from federal sources, money that may be in line for cuts under President Donald Trump’s efforts to streamline the federal government. Ninth District Congressman William Keating addressed the attendees to say changes to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security are still on the table.
Sandra Frechette, CEO of Bristol Aging & Wellness in Fall River, says her organization, in its 52nd year servicing seniors in the Greater Fall River, Taunton, and Attleboro areas, provides a welcoming service that needs to be protected.
