What does it take for someone to feel safe and comfortable growing old in Harvard? One thing is the assurance that the town cares about its seniors and is committed to fund small increases to the Council on Aging to keep up with the medical needs of elders; to offer courses, activities, and trips; and to advocate for seniors. Another is a place to gather with friends, have a meal, play cards, and find joy in the company of peers. The seniors of Harvard deserve selectmen who are supportive of these needs.
The COA has asked the town for an increase of about $4,660 in this year’s budget to provide an additional five hours per week for the outreach worker. The outreach worker assists the director by making home visits to ailing seniors, aiding families in finding placements and resources for an elderly parent, and exploring new programs that would give respite to caregivers. The increased funding from the town would allow the outreach worker 15 hours a week, nowhere near enough to meet a growing need, but certainly a significant step. Of course these are tough economic times for everyone, but certainly one of our selectmen’s priorities ought to be to support those very seniors who have contributed so much to the town in the past.
Currently, the senior center and COA offices are at Hildreth House. The elder seniors love this grand old “cottage.” Recent Community Preservation Act funds have allowed significant restorations, and the Friends of the COA has made interior improvements. Some town officials advocate selling Hildreth House. Certainly this option needs discussion, not secrecy, and surely no selectman should propose to sell it without offering an alternate location. The image of seniors having their social center sold out from under them is a startling one.
As this critical election for Board of Selectmen draws near, I encourage voters to look closely at the candidates’ positions on issues regarding the town’s seniors. How a community cares for its aging population is a strong indicator of the very heart and soul of that community.
Carlene Phillips, chairwoman
COA Board of Directors
