TRAX, healthcare market navigation on agenda
The Ark-Tex Council of Governments (ATCOG) approved changes for seniors in Northeast Texas per decisions at their Sept. 24 meeting.
The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) saw specific policy changes, with input by Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom. Specifically, ATCOG will no longer refer to those who receive their services as “elderly,” but instead by the term “older adult.”
Members of the Texas Silver-Haired Legislators representing the Ark-Tex region will also be welcomed to serve in the organization as ex-officio members, according to AAA director Lisa Reeves.
Furthermore, ATCOG has seen changes to its TRAX transportation services, which provide assistance to seniors in the Northeast Texas region, according to executive director Chris Brown.
Although ATCOG has eliminated the Mount Pleasant to Paris Greyhound direct bus route due to lack of passengers, Brown presented that the program finds itself with approximately $220,000 in additional grant funds from the 2020 fiscal year.
“We’re keeping all the connections that are vital to people,” Brown said. “We are still bringing people from the main cities into the county.”
ATCOG currently does not have housing programs in Hopkins County, but Brown said he hopes that one day the council will expand both that program and additional TRAX programs in our area.
“The programs have been a huge help for those 60 and older for those who are trying to stay in their homes and are trying to stay independent,” Brown told the News-Telegram. “We’re glad to continue to help those who need funding, and funding from the state is remaining stable.”
Up next on the ATCOG agenda for seniors is open enrollment for medicare, with which the AAA branch of ATCOG provides assistance.
“Options are out there we can help with that,” Brown said.
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