According to the 2008 U.S. Census, approximately 81,000 people, or 35% of Cape Cod’s population, are over the age of 55. There has been a 20% increase of residents aged 75 to 84. Demographically, Barnstable County is the oldest county in New England. I was a geriatric social worker for nearly 20 years, and I helped families and seniors work through some of the problems of aging: rising costs on fixed incomes, isolation, no transportation, and lack of adequate medical care.

We need a Senator who will ensure that Medicare premiums and benefits remain stable when combined with Massachusetts health plans. We need someone who is aware of the growing needs of the Cape’s senior population and who will facilitate funding for adequate medical services. We need someone who supports home healthcare assistance and rehabilitation/long term care facilities that serve our seniors, regardless of their income or geographic location.