On the Trail With Ty
Friends: Today I headed down Wilmarth and the numerous side streets. I met a woman (70’s?) who didn’t realize the Senior Center administers an Attleboro work-off program that will potentially subtract $700 off her property tax … for one hour of work per week. She didn’t realize some of the work can be done sitting at a desk greeting people, handling phone calls, doing relatively simple administrative work, etc. She wants to get out of the house and into the "real" world on a limited basis. She frequently feels home-bound and misses socializing in the 9 to 5 world she used to belong to. When I left her house she was excited and smiling. Mission accomplished!
During my house calls I tell seniors they can have their income tax forms completed…. for free… at the center. They can get advice regarding their health insurance. They can join an exercise class, share a hearty lunch with other seniors, make new friends, listen to musical performances, etc. The list of events are stimulating and fun.
For example, I met a man last week near Steere St. who is still in the workforce and recently turned 65. He had no idea how his health insurance might change when he turns 65 and didn’t realize he might need to combine medicare with a supplemental health insurance plan quite soon. I told him about our excellent social workers at the senior center and advised him to make an appointment. He told me my surprise visit was exactly what the doctor ordered, to coin a well-worn phrase.
Check out the Larson Senior Center on South Main Street. Great place! If you come next Monday, 10 am on July 8th, I will be performing a folk song concert for a hour. Just a little free benefit from poking your head into the senior center. I hope to see you there!
Yes, now I am a City Councilor. But can you tell I am also a social worker? I love both roles.
Ty Waterman 