The newest members of the Butler County Elderly Services Program board share an interest in helping promote awareness of the services available to area seniors.
Agreeing to serve on the board are: Don Eberwine, of Oxford; Deborah Hauenstein, of Monroe; Elaine Hohman, of Monroe; and Daniel Solazzo, of Fairfield.
They are replacing Kathy Dudley, Peggy Kollstedt, Lena Saylor and Al Zenz, whose terms have been completed. The board meets quarterly.
Eberwine, 71, who is retiring this summer from Ohio State University’s Extension office in Butler County, said he feels strongly about the Elderly Services Program.
“The primary objective is to keep the elderly in their homes,” Eberwine said. “We’re in trying times right now, and if an individual had to go to a nursing home or care facility it would wipe them out (financially).”
“It’s a vital service to the community, and keeping them in their homes and familiar settings makes them much more productive citizens,” he said.
After fielding 2,200 calls annually from people needing horticultural information, the former director of adult education for the Butler County Joint Vocational School District said he hopes to bring awareness to the community.
“It’s constant education of the public how to access services,” he said.
Hauenstein believes her work as senior account executive with Hospice of Cincinnati, Hamilton location, and former LifeSpan position, will be an asset in her new role.
“I have always felt a connection to the elderly because of my grandmother. I think this is a great way to tie everything together,” Hauenstein said.
The former Fairfield resident said it’s important to remember that people want to maintain their pride. Recalling a relative who was hesitant to receive Meals on Wheels services, she said, “I think a lot of elderly are afraid to ask for the services, or (are) too proud.”
It is important those needing services realize the program is not a handout, she said. After paying taxes all their lives, residents need to understand the services are available.
<p class="note">Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2169 or pmccracken@coxohio.com.</p>
