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Thanks for 14 great years
By State Representative Shaun P. Kelly
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My perspective on elder needs has markedly changed since I was first elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1990 at age 26. Fourteen years ago, I was elected during a time of economic, fiscal and political turmoil. Families and businesses were hurting, and because of a lackluster economy, revenue generated by the Commonwealth was declining, so reductions in line item state spending had to be implemented. It was a difficult time for Massachusetts and for the citizens who depend on worthy state programs and assistance. Needless to say my energies at that time were focused on economic revival and boosting state revenue so that further reductions in state funding for needy and vulnerable citizens would not be necessary. It was a time of crisis and confusion for us all which presented an opportunity of learning and growth for me personally.
I came to realize that hospitals had ceased to be long-term infirmaries for the sick and elderly, and that nursing homes were not the appropriate setting for most non-acutely ill seniors. I learned that American elders were living longer, healthier lives, and that advancements in pharmacological medicines helped ease or eliminate many ailments associated with old age. In 1990 most seniors were living in their homes and many doing so remarkably well with the help of loved ones and neighbors. However, not all elders were so fortunate, and I came to learn the needs of the elder population who were at risk in their own homes, yet did not want to leave the comfort of them. I came to understand the humane and benevolent nature of
state programs funded to help elders stay in their homes, and the wonderful, local agencies whose primary mission is to assist seniors in their golden years.
Monies appropriated from the state and funneled through agencies were used to provide domestic assistance to frailer seniors as they aged. I came to clearly understand the importance of this, but also came to realize the financial impact these programs had on saving the Commonwealth money in the long run. Paying to keep elders happy and in their homes actually saves the state the cost of a highly expensive nursing home placement, so by assisting a little, the Commonwealth can and does save taxpayer money and that is a win-win for all.
I came into the legislature with a cursory understanding of the complex social and physical needs of our elders. I leave with a sound grasp of just how important assistance and outreach is to many home-bound seniors. I leave knowing that health care is too expensive for most and that virtually all elders now depend heavily on some sort of prescription medication. I know that governments must implement or rescind policies to address the higher cost of healthcare, and we must continue to financially assist seniors with the cost of life saving medications. I know also that government can’t do it all and we must recommit ourselves as a society to the notion of extended families and extended communities.
It has been my pleasure to work with Elder Services of the Berkshires these past 14 years on behalf of my elderly constituents. I have enjoyed every minute of it, and I thank you all for your past support of my candidacies and for all of your kind words and well wishes.
God Bless.