These have been in effect since the beginning of the fiscal year and it was not until last week that they were finally lifted.
During the time of austerity, the staff worked only 64 hours per week. Clients, as a result, were not permitted to enter the center during austerity hours.
Now that the measures have been lifted, the office staffers are back to an 80-hour work-week. The clients now receive the full benefits of the Aging Center which is again open Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
But clients are also experiencing difficulties with regards to the increase in the prices of gasoline, food and electricity.
In the CNMI, prices of products are twice the amount you would pay in the states, making it even harder for citizens to survive here. Most clients live paycheck to paycheck, and some are barely able to purchase necessities.
What is happening? The Office on Aging provides various services to its clients, including transportation, food and daily activities.
Some daily activities include recreational activities (bingo, billiards, ground golf, etc.), computer class, music class, dance class, arts and crafts, water therapy, and daily stretching and walking.
Clients may join any activity while benefiting from the daily breakfast and lunch served at the center. Clients are also able to run errands as needed. Transportation for errands is provided by the Office on Aging.
If I was an advocate for the elderly I would want to see them become more independent. Outreach programs at the center are vital for self-sufficiency as clients learn exactly how to get the help they need. Legal services are currently offered when needed. However, more programs to help clients become self-sufficient are essential.
Training for the office staff is important as well. Staff should be trained on how to properly care for clients during their time at the center. They should be able to assist them in obtaining the services they desire, whether it is legal, health, transportation, etc., while maintaining privacy at all times.
Lastly, having healthier, more active clients is a significant goal of the Aging Center. Healthier meals and more activities will prove beneficial for the clients.
TEDDY GUIAO
Lower Navy Hill, Saipan
