Resources

Commission on Aging

On May 15, 1985, the Town of East Lyme passed an ordinance that created the Commission on Aging.  The Commission is a 7 member Board consisting of interested residents of the Town which must have minority representation.

The purpose of the Commission is to:

  1. Review and analyze the needs and conditions of the elderly persons of the Town in relation to housing, nutrition, employment, health, recreation, social services, transportation, and other matters and problems within the jurisdiction of the Commission.
  2. Plan, coordinate, develop and implement programs to meet the needs and to improve the conditions of the elderly persons of the Town, upon the Board’s own initiative or on the recommendations of the Senior Citizen Administrator.
  3. Through the Senior Center Director and others, as necessary, provide coordination of such plans and programs among all related services.

The monthly meetings are held on the 2nd Monday of every month starting at 5pm. The meetings are held at the Senior Center and the public is welcome to attend. If a member of the public has a concern and wants to address the Board, there are two ways in which this can be handled. At the Board meeting, a person can address the Board during the Delegations section of the meeting. Or, a person can ask the Senior Center Director to add an item to the monthly meeting Agenda.

The current makeup of the Board is:

John Whritner            Chairperson

Michael Bekech          Vice-Chairperson

Ilene Harris                 Secretary/Treasurer

Marge Caste                Board Member

Margret Hughes         Board Member

Joan Bengston            Board Member

Joe Palazzo                 Board Member

Roseanne Hardy        Selectman and Ex-Officio

 

The East Lyme Senior Center can assist you or someone you know with regards to services available within our community. If you have questions, please call at 860-739-5859 for an appointment.

 

    TECH SUPPORT w/ELHS STUDENTS- Tuesdays

    Posted on March 2, 2020 by East Lyme

    Time: 3:00pm – 3:45pm

    Come get some one to one assistance from our local high school students.

    If you are  you having trouble learning how to use your laptop, tablet or smartphone device join the East Lyme High School students to learn.

    Call to register.

     

    Tools for Caregivers- Thursdays from January 27th to March 9th

    Posted on February 2, 2020 by East Lyme

    Time: 10:45am – 12:15pm

    A 6 week program thru June 17th. Geared for family
    and friends caring for older adults with cognitive
    and chronic impairment. The program focuses on the self-care of the caregivers. Attendees are
    encouraged to attend all 6 weeks.

    Mon mornings –  10:45am to 12:15pm
    To register call Robin Brewer at
    860-887-3561  x124 or
    rbrewer@seniorresourcesec.org

    ENERGY ASSISTANCE FOR 19/20 FALL&WINTER SEASON

    Posted on February 2, 2020 by East Lyme

    Applications for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program are being taken at the New London office of TVCCA. Appointments are required. Please call 860-444-0006. The

    Senior Center office will assist the Senior and Disabled population of East Lyme with their

    applications. You must call the Senior Center office to obtain your appointment. Appointments will be made at Twin Haven and the AHEPA housing complexes for those residents. Watch for notices.

    To be eligible:

    1. In a one-person household, income can be NO greater than $36,171. In a two-person household, income can be NO greater than $47,300.
    2. If you are a renter, the first $12,000.00 in liquid assets is disregarded. Any amount over that limit, when added to the annual gross income must be below the income guidelines.
    3. If you are a homeowner, the first $15,000.00 in liquid assets is disregarded. Any amount over that limit, when added to the annual gross income must be below the income guidelines.

    The application process should take about 15 minutes.  The following information is required:

    1. Proof of income sources: copy of most recent monthly (quarterly, annual) check or copy of an award letter or copy of most recent bank statement showing the direct deposit. If you are employed you must provide a copy of your four most recent consecutive pay stubs.
    2. Dividends, annuities or interest income (has to be more than $10/month). Copy of a statement for the most recently completed period.
    3. Proof of what you pay for rent. In addition, the name, address and telephone number of your landlord is required. If you are a homeowner and pay a mortgage, you must provide proof of your mortgage payment.
    4. If you have a checking and/or savings account, you must bring in the most recent ENTIRE statement.
    5. If natural gas or electricity heats the household, bring in the most recent ENTIRE statement.

    Please remember all members of the household who receive income must report their income.

     

    Pets – Content by Judy

    Posted on January 3, 2020 by East Lyme

    I recently got a puppy and I can’t tell you how much richer my life is because of our new little beagle, Harriett! She makes us laugh. She gets us up and moving. She’s funny and smart. I think we are going to be in trouble cuz she might be a little too smart.

    The CDC article I was recently reading states that studies show the bond between people and pets lowers stress, increases fitness and brings happiness which can lead to decreased blood pressure, decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels, decreased feelings of loneness with increased opportunities for exercise and socialization. Plus, pets can help us with weight loss.

    When considering what to get for a pet we should be considering how long the pet will live. What they eat. How much exercise they will need? How big or small will it be when full grown. Are pets allowed where you live. How much time you have for a pet? How much will the pet cost between vet bills, food, grooming, etc.

    Another thing is pet insurance. This is becoming more popular and can be quite affordable. And can cover those unexpected illnesses and accidents.

    And before you get your pet. Figure out what pet you might want. The cost and time commitment. Reasons why that pet might not be a good idea. Ask yourself – will my life be richer if I get this pet? Or should I consider a cat instead? Maybe fish?

    If you haven’t had a pet before you might want to consider a parakeet, a gecko, a gerbil or guinea pig. They are pretty easy to care for.

    And remember the benefits!! Companionship, movement and laughter. Pets can give us a new meaning and purpose in life. My grandkids have come to visit more so they can see the puppy.

    Most households in the US have at least one pet. You just need to pick the right pet for you and your household. We all are better off for loving a pet.