HONESDALE – With more than 28 percent of its population over the age of 60, the Wayne County Commissioners marked Older Americans Month with a proclamation promoting the community services that help them live longer, healthier lives while remaining independent, as well as their vital contribution to the community.
With programs that support family care givers, address issues of exploitation, neglect and abuse, Wayne County Area Agency on Aging also provides vital lifeline to keep seniors actively in engages in their community and their overall well-being.
In accepting a proclamation from the Wayne County Commissioners, Aging Director Mary Ursich said this year’s theme if “Engage at Every Age,” which emphasizes the important of being active and involved no matter where or when you are in life. The agency provides opportunities to participate in activities that can enrich their physical, mental and emotional health by developing artistic interests, learning new skills, travelling, volunteering and developing health habits.
Ursich said the staff at the Aging Office is passionate about keeping people in their homes as they age, and the agency keeps growing to meet the needs of as many people as they can.
In rural area such as Wayne County, where isolation can be a matter of sheer distance from services, the County Transportation System plays a critical role in keeping seniors engaged. The department providing rides to medical appointments and shopping, mostly paid for through contracts with the PA Departments of Aging (lottery funds), Transportation and Public Assistance, with the seniors paying $1 or $2 each way.
Commissioner Chairman Brian Smith said the county encourage more seniors to take advantage of the programs and services that are available through Area Agency on Aging, noting, “These are the people that built this community that we all enjoy.”
Pictured accepting the proclamation for Older Americans Months are staff members, seated from left: Jacqueline Cole, Diane Riveland, HSA Administrator Andy Whyte, Aging Director Mary Ursich, Maggie Hicks, Elaina Greer, Michelle Valinksi and Pat Nelson. Standing, from left, are, Commissioner Wendell Kay, Migdalia Pimentel, Season Slish, Noah Parry, Lisa Gilbert, Monique Orr, Lauren Janusewski, Cathleen DeGrazia, Advisory Council members Art Frey, Barbara Sprovkin and Sally Burgin, Will Magann, Council member Carol Coe, Commissioner Joe Adams, Council member Lynn Karger, Julie Cornwell, Leigh Washington and Commissioner Brian Smith.