Janice Ayres: Senior Corps Association holds forums

The Nevada Senior Corps Association (NSCA) has been holding legislative forums in both the north and the south to share with Nevada legislators what community-based organizations are providing to seniors and the disabled, utilizing state dollars, so that they have a better understanding of problems and solutions. NSCA has been very pleased with the turnout, as it had planned the forums around a time when legislators were not under so much stress as when in session, and in addition has given many service providers an opportunity to meet one another and see if they might be able to collaborate on some services.

It has been interesting to hear from clients of these services as to how much the programs have impacted their lives and the lives of their loved ones. It has been all positive. I attend the forums to speak on basic care needs for seniors and transportation. The most recent forum was held Jan. 16 at Sierra Behavioral Solutions in Reno. It is a beautiful facility, and warm hospitality was given to all of us.

Forum attendees from the state Legislature were Assemblymen Randy Kirner and Ira Hansen, and state Sens. Greg Brower and Ben Kieckhefer. They came early and stayed late, asked really good questions, and gave us their most courteous and undivided attention while we made our presentations. I spoke on basic needs and services for homebound seniors; Christy McGill from Lyon County covered the Health Community Coalition; Diane Ross spoke on the Continuum in Reno, which provides services to both children and adults; Peter Morris of Bright Star in Reno spoke on Home Health Services; and Angie Pratt covered the programs of the Alzheimer's Association.

The whole mission of the NSCA has been to bring together community-based organizations to more cost-effectively and efficiently serve the aging and disabled population, and to work with lawmakers at all levels for transparency regarding dollars spent on their many needs to remain independent in their own homes and out of costly nursing homes as long as possible. Additional forums are planned before the next legislative session so that community-based organizations can interact with lawmakers on needs, and with one another to maximize dollars. Also, a forum is planned for the governor's office. Bruce Arkell and Sandra Borelli, officers of NSCA, have organized all the forums and have acted as moderators. Seniors in need of services should contact the Aging and Disability Services Division for information and referrals. Their number is 687-4210, and they have access to all resources. Stay tuned!

* Janice Ayres is president of Nevada Senior Corps Association.