Coastline had the honor of welcoming Rep. Tom Stanley to New Bedford in May. As co-chair of the Joint Committee on Aging and Independence, Rep. Stanley is a dedicated advocate for helping older adults remain in their homes and communities with dignity and support.
Although New Bedford is outside his district, he made the trip to meet directly with residents receiving home care services — to listen, ask questions, and better understand what potential cuts to aging services would mean for those most affected.
His visit was deeply appreciated. For individuals aging at home, these services are not luxuries — they are lifelines.
During his visit, Rep. Stanley spoke with Kevin Hodson of Fairhaven about the services he currently receives and his concerns for the future. Kevin’s eligibility through MassHealth allows Coastline to provide additional homemaking services, explained Coastline Care Manager Kim Pepin — a level of support not always available to others, even when needed.
For example, when Kevin mentioned that his home health aide couldn’t manage laundry within their time limit, Kim was able to step in and adjust his care plan to include laundry services.
Kevin has endured multiple motorcycle accidents, including one that left him temporarily in a wheelchair. That’s when he first connected with Coastline and began working with Kim. Today, he walks with a cane but experiences significant mobility challenges later in the day, making it difficult to cook or clean. In addition to homemaking support, he receives daily meals through Coastline’s Meals on Wheels program.
In the video, Rep. Stanley and Kevin discuss the impact these services have on his life — how they allow him to remain in the town where he grew up, and his hopes and worries for what comes next.
We thank Rep. Stanley for his leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to protecting the essential supports that help people age independently — and with dignity.
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