Erie County Department of Senior Services invites visitors to view their newly designed and updated Web site at www.erie.gov/depts/seniorservices.

     Commissioner Pamela Krawczyk explains, “The Web site is designed to be a user-friendly resource for Erie County’s older adults and their families or caregivers.

     Information about many programs and services available for seniors is arranged into several categories for easier access, and a site map allows visitors to easily find what they need, whether it be income guidelines for HEAP, information about adult day care and respite, or upcoming events and activities. Today’s seniors (and their families) are increasingly using the Web, so this is a very valuable tool for them. It’s updated constantly ... whether something as simple as a phone number for an independent housing provider, or with information such as the new Medicare Prescription Drug Discount Cards. Of course, people are always welcome and encouraged to call the Department at 858-8526 with questions, but there’s also an e-mail link which might be a convenient way for people to ask questions or voice their concerns during non-business hours."

     Commissioner Krawczyk goes on to say, “We often speak with people who say, ‘I had no idea that such-and-such existed!’ Senior Services’ Web site can help educate not only senior citizens themselves, but also their families, about programs and services available to anyone over 60. With 80 percent of all care to the elderly and disabled in this country being given by family members and other informal caregivers, it’s important to know about services and programs that can help them. We hope our Web site can be a vital resource for Erie County’s residents.”

     One out of every five Erie County residents is age 60 or older. As the Area Agency on Aging, the mission of the Department of Senior Services is to promote the optimal well-being of older adults by empowering them to lead lives of independence, health and dignity and to facilitate the development of comprehensive, coordinated and cost-effective services within the community to meet present and future needs of seniors and their caregivers.

     The Web site at www.erie.gov/depts/seniorservices welcomes visitors of all ages.