Proposed budget threatens services

On the Senior Agenda by William F. Flynn, Jr.



When discussing senior issues with legislators and other Rhode Island policy-makers, I find that many are unaware of the magnitude of our state’s growing senior population.

Coalition: Restore cuts to service grants

On the Senior Agenda by William F. Flynn, Jr.



The Senior Agenda Coalition has long advocated transforming Rhode Island’s long-term care system for seniors away from one focused on nursing homes to one promoting “aging in the community with independence and dignity.” 

Cut to dental services hard to swallow

On the Senior Agenda by William F. Flynn, Jr.



I think any of us who has experienced a toothache can agree that it’s an extremely painful and debilitating experience. Studies have shown that 20 percent of older adults have untreated dental cavities, and 25 percent have advanced periodontal disease that threatens loss of teeth. Moreover, poor oral health is a risk factor for many systemic diseases, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes. However, regular Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental care, although some Medicare advantage plans do.

Personal approach pays dividends

On the Senior Agenda by William F. Flynn, Jr.



In 2011, the Gray Panthers of Rhode Island merged with the Senior Agenda Coalition, retaining its identity as the coalition’s membership partner. Together we have been working on a campaign to build membership and identify issues. We have been doing that in partnership with the Rhode Island Organizing Project (RIOP), a coalition of 15 organizations that helps mobilize people to improve their communities. It has won victories for funding after-school programs, improving neighborhoods, producing affordable housing and most recently securing shelter for homeless persons in Woonsocket.

Try personal approach with politicians

On the Senior Agenda by William F. Flynn, Jr.



The Senior Agenda Coalition frequently urges people to contact their elected officials about issues important to older adults. But as we talk with people, we realize that many folks don’t know their state senator and representative, and that even if they do, they often are reluctant to “bother them.”

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