Senior Surveys Are In The Mail

The Livable Amherst Survey was mailed to 500 randomly selected Amherst residents, ages 55 and over this week. The survey is the first step in the plans for Amherst to become an Age and Dementia Friendly Community. The town is working with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission to determine the present and future needs of Amherst seniors. There is a local working group meeting monthly with staff liaisons Maureen Pollock of the Planning Department and Hailey Bolton, Director of Senior Services.

The comprehensive survey asks for input on available services in health, transportation, home care, and emergency planning, among other aspects. In addition to the mailed survey, the survey is available on the Town of Amherst website and on Engage Amherst. Surveys will also be distributed through the Senior Center, Amherst Neighbors, the League of Women Voters, and other places that older residents frequent. All those who respond to the survey by March 31, 2022 are eligible for a drawing for one of five $50 gift certificates. The surveys are in English and Spanish, but other translation services are available on request.

The survey is the first step in the town becoming an Age and Dementia Friendly Community. There will also be listening sessions and public forums. The three forms of outreach encompass the eight sectors of an Age and Dementia Friendly Community established by the Massachusetts Healthy Aging Collaborative to assess a community’s ability to support an aging population, to provide the physical and social environments that are key determinants of whether people can remain healthy, independent and autonomous as they age

Several communities in Western Massachusetts, such as Belchertown, Northampton, and South Hadley have developed action plans based on the results of their surveys. The aim is to establish a network of communities, organizations, and individuals to support people with dementia and their caregivers. More information can be found on the Engage Amherst site.