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State's Elderly Feeling Effects Of Budget Cuts

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 21, 2008

Many of our Florida elders are unduly stressed and suffering today. As our governor proclaims his mandate for additional budgetary cuts, we are seeing a dramatic rise in the need for assistance. Many no longer drive as they can not afford the gas required and are unable to afford taxi fare or other public transportation. Faced with soaring prices for basic foods, they have already cut back to the point of experiencing substandard nutrition which aggravates conditions brought on by skimping on high-priced prescriptions.

With the shocking increases proposed by the electric companies, many will deny themselves essential air conditioning. Long ago any thought of entertainment or a meal out in a restaurant had become a distant memory. Confronted with escalating prices at every turn, they now face empty shelves at food banksto offer any supplemental assistance.

And now the coming further reduction in Social Service safety nets, already reduced to the point of limiting assistance, will be strained to the point of unsustainable capabilities. Even the staffs of these agencies are becoming stressed at not being able to assist the ever increasing numbers needing aid. How in the world can an agency be expected to serve twice the number of needy when resources are continuously reduced to the point of depletion?

Our civilized society is failing, ethically and morally, in its desire to provide dignified care for those who have built this great nation and are now in need of assistance in their final years. Many are also caring for children and ailing parents or other relatives. While some state projects could possibly be delayed, how can we allow the disgraceful treatment of parents and grandparents who gave their all in their better years? Who amongst the community accept and condones this unjust treatment of our frail vulnerable and deserving elders?

AUSTIN R. CURRY

Tampa

The writer is executive director of Elder Care Advocacy of Florida.

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