Central to the meeting was the examination of challenges following recent state budget reductions, which have affected crucial senior services such as elder protective services, home care, and nutrition programs. The council’s dialogue with panelists shed light on the adverse effects of these cuts, with council members probing into the specific impacts and the number of seniors affected. The necessity for continued referrals for cases of elder abuse and financial exploitation was underscored, despite the budgetary constraints. Moreover, the council discussed the need for increased investment in senior services to mitigate these challenges.

A significant portion of the conversation revolved around the expansion and accessibility of senior programming across Boston. Panelists highlighted the collaboration with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to grow senior programming at community centers citywide. The panelists also expressed excitement regarding the completion of the first full year of enhanced programming at various sites, including the East Boston Senior Center, the Mildred Senior Center, and the Ethos Pilot Senior Center in West Roxbury. Collectively, a $180,000 investment from Goddard House was noted, aimed at bolstering the infrastructure for creative aging programs across Boston, with plans to recruit creative aging managers.

The council also addressed the aspiration to engage a consultant to assist in crafting a strategic plan for sustained and equitable investments in services for people aged 60 and over. This plan is intended to ensure thoughtful consideration of both short-term and long-term investments, with a particular focus on expanding access to high-quality programming and spaces in a fair manner. Councilors emphasized the importance of working alongside the council, senior residents, and advocacy groups to inform and refine this process.

Amid discussions on programming, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on seniors’ mental health was a recurring theme. The need for community engagement and connection to combat loneliness and isolation among the elderly was a focal point. Tyisha Jones-Warner, the director of events and programs, discussed the Age Strong team’s efforts to address these concerns through various social events and programs, including virtual mindfulness classes led by Age Strong’s wellness manager, Bob Linscott, which reached 686 duplicated older adults across the city.

The meeting also delved into the Age Strong Commission’s work, with Alison Freeman discussing the funding of community partners through federal and city budget allocations. Freeman highlighted the redesign of the expanding engagement grant program to make funding more accessible, particularly for smaller groups.

The panelists elaborated on partnerships with strategic stakeholders, including non-profit organizations, hospitals, universities, and colleges, to develop comprehensive care opportunities for seniors. These partnerships are envisioned to facilitate screenings, medical care, preventive care, and lifelong learning initiatives.

Furthermore, the council explored the concept of activating public spaces for senior use, with a vacant school building in Roslindale proposed as a potential senior center site. The allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds was discussed, including a one-million-dollar allocation to prepare space for the relocation of the B.C. Way Center and the utilization of funds at Brighton High School. The use of an equity lens in resource allocation and outreach to private and philanthropic partners for additional funding were also topics.

The meeting concluded with an emphasis on a holistic approach to senior care, addressing public health concerns such as diabetes, cancer, and depression, and the challenges faced by seniors living in public housing. The critical role of technology and arts in senior programs, as well as the need for continued investment in programming and spaces over the next five years, was affirmed.