Welcome to the SeniorConnection Advocacy Page!

On this page, it is our intention to offer our readers a wide variety of information, both on "how to" advocate, "why" advocate, the legislative process (federal), and various pieces of legislation coming to both Congress (House of Representatives & Senate) and the Massachusetts General Court (State Legislature) that may be affecting seniors, caregivers and, in the end, all of us!

Why Advocate?

Basically, Advocacy means helping those who are vulnerable to get their needs met. Throughout history, it is these most vulnerable who are the most silent and who need YOU to help them speak up and speak out. Advocacy means that you support those who need you to walk the journey with them.

At other times, you are the one in need, and you need these resources to help you plan the way in which you can speak up and make your voice heard.

Empowering older adults and caregivers (both family and professional), as well as those who speak on their behalf with practical, accessible resources is the primary goal of this page. Whether your interest in elder or caregiver advocacy is personal or professional, it helps to have accurate information before making the decision to speak up.

Who is an Advocate?

Family members investigating resources to help an increasingly impaired parent to continue living independently are advocates. A concerned neighbor, who observes a series of worrisome incidents and decides to bring it up with his or her elderly neighbor's adult child, has stepped into the role of an advocate. Professionals who understand the aging service network and help locate appropriate programs and services for older adults, or to support caregivers, play an important role in advocacy. Voters who are concerned about the care government shows, or doesn't show, for vulnerable populations and contact a legislator are advocates. And, of course…YOU!

How Can I Know What To Do?

To help you answer this question, SeniorConnection will produce articles and links to help you better understand the needs, proposed legislation, and ways to contact lawmakers both at the State and Federal levels. We will also help you understand how the process works, and what role you, as a community advocate, can play.

But Can I Make a Difference?

Yes you can! But first, you must know the facts. SeniorConnection will help you find all the facts in order to make a balanced choice as to your course of action. Once you have made a decision in what you want to say, and why you want to say it, then we will help you find the best way to make your voice heard.

Letters, emails and phone calls to Congressional Legislators, the Governor, even the President of the United States go a long way into helping elected officials know and understand what you see and believe. Find and contact your State Legislators here. Votes in Congress have been changed because advocates have spoken. One form of contact is through Elder E-Alert, a Program of Mass Home Care.

Legislative Articles of Interest:

How a Bill Becomes a Law (State Level)
How a Bill Becomes a Law (Federal Level)
How our laws are made: Complete Version

Information You Should Know!

Ombudsman
Another form of advocacy that is common to the aging and caregiver networks is “Ombudsman” An ombudsman is an individual who investigates complaints and mediates fair settlements, especially between aggrieved parties such as consumers or students and an institution or organization. There are three types of Ombudsman programs that advocates should be aware of in Central Massachusetts Long Term Care Ombudsman, Assisted Living Ombudsman and Community Care Ombudsman.

Hospital Discharge
If an elder is hospitalized, they should receive a written discharge plan at least 24 hours prior to being released from a hospital facility. If you have not received one it is your right to ask and be given one. Remember that you always have the right to talk with the social worker in charge of the care plan if you do not understand the discharge process.

Appeals Process for Hospital Discharge
If you have concerns about yourself or an elderly love one being discharged from a hospital too soon, or with what you believe is not a feasible discharge plan, you can appeal the discharge process.

Assessing Quality of Care:
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) inspects Massachusetts nursing facilities and hospital-based transitional care units every 9-15 months. State inspectors ensure that each facility is meeting the established state and federal quality standards and creates a Survey Performance Tool.

Sometimes individuals need help advocating for themselves, whether to make it through the aging and caregiver networks or to find appropriate services. If you need this kind of help, contact us by phone: (800) 244-3032 or (508) 852-5539 (both TTY); by e-mail: CMAAging@SeniorConnection.org, or at www.SeniorConnection.org