Laurie Lee Candidate for Framingham Selectman Position on our Senior Citizens:
click for Laurie's 1/7/08 presentation at the Senior Center

The Question's we all must address are:

Does Framingham support and appreciate our senior citizens?

How can Framingham offer more support to our seniors?

Many of the best things in Framingham, and our nation, were built by this greatest generation.

Keeping seniors healthy, protected, safe, and financially secure must be the first priority of the younger generations and of our Town government. Studies have shown that senior citizens are the best constituents, most active volunteers, work the hardest and may be the least appreciated. Recognition of our senior population and addressing their concerns will become more critical as reported by the Massachusetts Council on Aging since “The boomers are coming, the boomers are here”.

The council reports that one of the top priorities of seniors is to “Age in Place” -  to remain in their homes and their communities. Some new trends that have also been identified including:

• Seniors mentoring seniors
• Expanding the “senior center” to include the entire community
• Collaboration between towns and seniors for financial, social and intellectual health
• Bring seniors into the community in vital roles such as library and school volunteers
• Help seniors stay in the work force
• Economic development focused on senior needs

Overall Framingham has a good track record for supporting our seniors, but we can do more.
 

What are some things Framingham currently does for our senior population?

• We provide low income senior housing
• We provide water and sewer discount
• We provide several property tax abatements
• We provide home repair assistance
• We provide volunteer opportunities
• We provide the Senior Center and a support system based there
• We provide many services including transportation, health screening, social engagements, clubs, support groups

What are some things we can Framingham do to support our senior population?

• We can provide more outreach to seniors
• We can provide more education on the services we do offer
• We can simplify the process for applying for assistance
• We can address the qualifications for property tax abatements
• We can allow senior in condominiums to qualify for a water/sewer discount
• We can develop programs to bring our seniors into vital roles in our community
• We can develop a senior mentoring program
• We can ensure that our transportation services are focused on senior needs
• We can assist in discussions with comcast regarding the senior discount,  including of The Game Channel

As Selectman I would be an advocate for our seniors, encouraging the Board and Town Meeting to address these changes and to focus on the importance of keeping our seniors in their homes and as an essential part of our community.