The commission is spearheading a pilot program that introduces respite care services for individuals with dementia. Although the program has sparked interest within the community, there is some uncertainty about participant numbers and methods for effective tracking. The need for more support and training in dementia care was also addressed, with frustration voiced over the current lack of resources for Alzheimer’s patients. A suggestion was made to form collaborations with other organizations to bolster the program’s impact.

The discussion on dementia care dovetailed with the commission’s debate on the broader issue of staff retention and the development of support programs. The concern extends to housing challenges, particularly for seniors who have been evicted. The commission acknowledged the significance of cleaning up records to improve the accuracy of data regarding activity registration at the senior center. This is crucial, as it was noted that an alcoholism case had been incorrectly documented.

In an effort to enhance mental health services, the commission discussed a collaboration with Bridgewater University and smaller towns involving licensed social workers. The initiative, awarded a $2,000 grant, aims to provide short-term counseling and support. The commission debated the effectiveness and tracking of this program and emphasized the need for better communication and participant tracking in various COA activities, including social groups like the book club and writing group.

Another focal point of the meeting was the evaluation of the current swipe system used to track and report the number of seniors utilizing COA services. Questions were raised about the system’s effectiveness and the proper allocation of a $30,000 grant designated for certain COA activities. The commission also expressed the need for improved transportation tracking and reporting to GATRA, the local transit authority, along with the implementation of drug testing for van drivers.

The commission emphasized the importance of spending down a grant received in 2016, discussing funding options for various programs. In addition, there were updates on the progress of a fundraising event, the observance of Elder Abuse Awareness Month, and the development of a COA brochure outlining long-term goals. The debate here centered on the brochure’s wording and the role of the Advisory Board within the COA.

The commission’s chair had initially set a one-hour time limit for the meeting, reserving extended durations for exceptional circumstances. The director’s report addressed the COA building’s appearance, recent improvements, and the budget allocated for painting and technology acquisitions for a hybrid program. The hybrid program, which allows community members to participate from home, was of particular interest, although concerns about technology purchases and the need to level the floors before renovation work were raised.