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-- Programs and Services -- Contact Information "Empowering elders to take control"
As our population continues to age, the need to respond and adapt to our changing demographics is paramount; particularly in Berkshire County, where there is a high percentage of elderly living in remote, rural areas. With rising health care, utility, and energy costs, maintaining elders in their own homes has become increasingly more challenging.
Several years ago, the state established 27 statewide Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs), including Elder Services of Berkshire County, in an effort to better coordinate care for the elderly. The ASAP agencies provide a wide range of programs and services including care management, nutrition, home care, protective services, money management, housing and transportation.
Since its conception in 1974, Elder Services of Berkshire County has been an integral part of the health and human services delivery system within the Berkshires, often serving as the first point of contact for elders who have complex and unique needs. The agency’s staff plays a vital role navigating elders through the bureaucratic process as they work to improve the quality of life for our elders. The system succeeds at facilitating and advancing the care of some of our most frail citizens.
The goal of the agency is to give elders the tools necessary to make informed decisions. To meet this objective, Elder Services collaborates with several local and state entities. The Legislature partners with ASAPs to identify key funding gaps that impose barriers on the ability of elders to live independently.
The recently adopted State budget reflects the Legislature’s commitment to ensuring that agencies such as Elder Services have the resources to fulfill their mission. The Fiscal Year 2005 Budget contains $14 million more than the fiscal year 2004 budget for the first in the nation Prescription Advantage Program, $495,000 more than the fiscal year 2004 budget for the Elder Protective Services Program, $2.9 million more than the fiscal year 2004 budget for Home Care, and $600,000 more than the fiscal year 2004 budget for statewide Councils on Aging.
Additionally, the Legislature’s Fiscal Year 2005 Budget includes $5 million to assist low income elders with Prescription Advantage co-payments. Governor Romney vetoed funds for this program. However, the Legislature understood the value of this program, which helps seniors deal with the high costs of prescription drugs, and overrode his veto.
Support for the types of programs offered by Elder Services is critical in fostering the well-being of our older neighbors. I look forward to continuing to work with Elder Services and the community to address issues affecting elderly residents. Together, we can empower elders to take control of their golden years.