Transportation is Crucial for Seniors

The following was submitted by the North Andover Senior Center.

One of the most vital needs for our elders in North Andover is transportation.  We currently have a full time van driver on staff, and a part time 10 hour a week driver who is covered by a grant.  We have 20 volunteer drivers who volunteer for the Senior Center under the Northern Essex Elder Transport Program.  Each week we still have to ask elders to reschedule non-essential medical appointments because we do not have a driver available. Our grocery shopping program transports 30 elders a week, many who need assistance to bring groceries into their home.  We deliver 36 large grocery bags of food through the Greater Boston Food Bank each month to elders who are isolated and unable to shop or leave their homes.  Our mission is to keep our elders safe in their community and living in their home.  There are 5,345 residents over the age of 65 in North Andover.  Approximately 83% participate in the health education, social support, and programs that are offered at the Senior Center.  Within the North Andover community and out of state there are adult children of aging parents who rely on the support provided at the North Andover Senior Center for their parents every day.  If you would like more information on volunteer opportunities for Medical Transport, please call the Senior Center at 978 688-9560.