Expectations and Realities
Working at the Office for Aging has allowed me to look into the different facets involving lives of seniors and the people helping them live it as comfortably as possible. When I started my work, I had no idea about the problems that plague the American system as it does in other countries. Considering my lack of knowledge regarding the system here, I was expecting very less if not any problems and barriers that the office might have to face in its quest to provide services to the seniors. I was expecting to see a somewhat balance between the need and provision of the services. This would include well-facilitated and funded senior citizen centers, well-paid and satisfied workers, enough vouchers, volunteers and participation. However, that hasn't been the case. The path for creating sustainable communities have had countless compromises. Prioritizing has been the main focus. Small senior centers located in the community with a sense a belonging or a large one somewhere else with more facilities? Social dynamics vs economics. Everyday home delivered meals- the only contact point for the seniors to the outside world and highlight of their day or every other day meals - efficient, cost effective and environment friendly? Social dynamics vs economics vs environment. These are some of the questions that have to be answered everyday and decision to choose has to be made.
Isha Rajbhandari '12
