Sponsored by AARP
The news team spoke with City Council candidates for District 47, George Sarantopoulos and Kayla Santosuosso, to discuss how they would address education challenges and its effect on older residents.
Q: What initiatives would you support to promote continued education and skill-building opportunities for seniors in your district?
Santosuosso: My district is home to some of the most active senior centers in the city, as well as beautiful libraries. Unfortunately, many of the institutions are under threat from federal funding cuts. In order for these havens of lifelong learning to continue to provide the highest quality services possible we need to ensure that funding can be replaced by the city.
Sarantopoulos: Staying mentally and socially active keeps people healthier. I’ll support affordable and free classes, art and cultural workshops and trips, and intergenerational programs through senior centers and libraries. Seniors deserve spaces to learn, share, and stay connected.
Q: Digital literacy is increasingly important for accessing healthcare, government services, and staying connected. How would you help older residents develop digital skills and ensure they have access to necessary technology?
Santosuosso: Staying connected is critical to improving the quality of life of our seniors, and digital literacy is instrumental to that. We need to expand the digital literacy programs so many of our seniors are relying on through the public library system, as well as expand our outreach efforts so that seniors know the resources available to them.
Sarantopoulos: Too many seniors struggle with technology that has become essential for healthcare and daily life. I’ll expand hands-on digital training through libraries, senior centers & NACHA community rooms and work with providers to secure affordable internet options. Helping seniors stay connected helps them stay independent.
Q: Many seniors wish to stay engaged and informed about community issues. What programs or partnerships would you advocate for to provide educational workshops, seminars, or discussions tailored specifically for older adults?
Santosuosso: If elected, my office will always be a resource to help seniors remain connected. Beyond expanding outreach efforts about the programs we already have, we need to make a greater effort to meet people where they are at and learn from seniors themselves about what events, programs and partnerships they need to thrive in our communities. The people who built the city continue to be one of its greatest assets, and I will always seek input from our seniors as we make decisions that impact their lives.
Sarantopoulos: Seniors want to stay informed and involved in the community. I will support regular discussions and gatherings at senior centers, local halls, places of worship, and cultural organizations where seniors can speak, share, and stay connected. And I will make sure printed information is always available for those who prefer it.
