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-- Programs and Services -- Contact Information Budget, Meals on Wheels, Prescription Advantage topped Legislative breakfast
Elder Services of Berkshire County recently held a Legislative Breakfast attended by State Senator Andrea F. Nuciforo, Jr., State Representatives Dan Bosley, Denis Guyer, Smitty Pignatelli, and Christopher Speranzo. They addressed a group of approximately 70 concerned elder advocates and members of the community.
Robert P. Dean, Elder Services’ Executive Director, welcomed the state legislators, stating “I thank each of you for all you have done and continue to do for Berkshire elders. We understand that there are difficult funding decisions and choices to be made with regard to this year’s budget, and want to thank you for your advocacy and support on behalf of Berkshire elders and the services they need.”
Each of the Berkshire legislative delegation was asked to describe his vision of the future of home and community-based services for elders. Each stated his support for elders’ right, whenever possible, to receive long-term care services in the least restrictive setting possible, and for elders to have the choice to receive the services they need in their own homes.
The lively interchange between the group and the legislators ranged from this year’s budget process and its impact on elders, to Prescription Advantage, property taxes, the Meals on Wheels financial deficit, and the need for more support for family caregivers.
Although there has been some progress over the past few years in providing more services and choices for elders, the legislators acknowledged there is still much to be done on Beacon Hill, and pledged their full support as they represent the needs of those over age 60.