Aging in Hingham - Town of Hingham Massachusetts

Senior Center programs. However, 18% of Seniors report lack of parking as a challenge, and8% report not knowing what is available as a problem. Segments of the older populationlack familiarity with the Senior Center. Forty-four percent of the Seniors and 83% of theBoomers report that they know "very little" about Hingham Senior Center programming.However, among the Seniors most likely to use the Senior Center—those aged 70 and olderwho do not live in Linden Ponds or Allerton House—knowledge is good.Looking ahead to the future, respondents voice a number of concerns as they age in place.Many respondents are concerned about the high cost of living in Hingham, and whetherlimited retirement funds will stretch to meet expenses. A sizable number of respondentsexpress concern that transportation options will be unavailable or inadequate if they areunable to drive in the future. A strong desire to remain active and engaged with socialnetworks and community activities is expressed by many, along with concerns thatopportunities to do so may be restricted by disability, transportation impediments, or thelack of programs for seniors. A strong desire to remain independent is expressed by many,tempered by concerns that they may face challenges in maintaining their homes andproperty.Information from two focus groups held to review preliminary results from the demographicand survey analyses highlight conclusions drawn from the community survey. One focusgroup was composed of representatives from a variety of community organizations. Thisgroup described a collaborative and positive relationship between their organizations andthe Department of Elder Services. Participants highlight transportation issues as keyconcerns for older residents, pointing out that a lack of transportation can lead to socialisolation and form a barrier to obtaining needed services. Caregiving was also mentioned asan important issue by this group, and cited as an issue on which the Senior Center canexercise leadership for the community. Other issues discussed include the need foraffordable housing, stigma associated with asking for and accepting help, and theimportance of strong marketing of Senior Center services and programs.The second focus group was composed of community members aged 45 and over. Membersof this group commented favorably on the Senior Center’s publicity efforts, and suggestedthat expanding into social media may be a vehicle for raising awareness among Boomers aswell as many Seniors who may have insufficient awareness. This group also mentioned thechallenge of providing adequate transportation options, and cited especially the need formore paid drivers through the Senior Center. Making a strong case for the value of a strongSenior Center for the community at large was recommended by this group.Interviews were conducted with six representatives from Town offices and organizations.Each person interviewed described ways in which the older population shapes the work thatthey do. All interviewees acknowledged that economic challenges and transportationbarriers are key issues facing Hingham’s Seniors. These individuals described numerousways in which Town offices and organizations work effectively together to support the olderpopulation. As well, they described collaborative and effective working relationships withthe Department of Elder Services. According to these community leaders, Elder Services iswell known and has meaningful impact within the community. They reported that theDepartment of Elder Services plays a valued leadership role in addressing the issues and6