The Region IV Area Agency on Aging is urging seniors and their loved ones to make this Wednesday Senior Action Day in Michigan. Chief Operating Officer Christine Vanlandingham tells WSJM News it’s a chance for everyone to speak out to state lawmakers.
“The day is about an opportunity for older adults to let legislators and the governor know about the importance of services in their home to help older adults remain safe and healthy during this pandemic and beyond,” Vanlandingham said.
Vanlandingham says as state budget cuts loom due to COVID-19, it becomes all the more important programs that help seniors stay in their homes not be cut. She says it’s about more than meal delivery.
“It’s also chore services, it’s about personal care, and making sure that their medications are managed, that they have access to those things, and that caregivers are supported. For some seniors, it’s about getting the kind of care in their home instead of going to a nursing home.”
And now is not the time to be in a nursing home. Vanlandingham says southwest Michigan’s state lawmakers are very receptive to the messages they get from seniors, but they should get friendly reminders on Wednesday with phone calls to their offices. Anyone with questions can contact the Area Agency on Aging. You can find out more right here.
