Senior-citizen buildings in the Ward address a continuum of care that runs from privately owned independent- and assisted-living centers to CHA buildings for independent seniors and public and privately funded nursing homes. Alderman Smith is deeply concerned that each building provides the highest level of service to its residents – concerned care; safe, healthy living conditions; proper maintenance; social activities, and cultural sensitivity to the needs of all residents.

The Ward office regularly interacts with the management, staff and residents of these facilities to monitor care, assist with special activities for holidays and special occasions and perform wellness checks in extreme weather conditions.

Whether it is organizing special outings during the summer, holiday events in the fall or partnering with private agencies such as the Council for Jewish Elderly or Mather LifeWays to provide ongoing education, recreation and activities, Alderman Smith is committed to maintaining a high quality of life for all of our seniors. In addition, the Ward office works with community-based organizations and public-health officials to provide screenings, immunizations and other health-care services that are critical to the well being of our senior residents.

For seniors who come from other countries and cultures, there are extra challenges. Alderman Smith works with community-based ethnic and immigrant/refugee organizations to provide for the special needs of these particularly vulnerable seniors. Issues such as culturally appropriate diet, activities, participation in community and assistance with language issues are very important to us.

Creating streets and sidewalks that are well-lit, safe and walkable are also very important to seniors, especially those who are frail. Alderman Smith’s walkability campaigns address these issues. We have given special attention to creating passive, walkable parks with areas to sit and rest, extended crossing times at major intersections to accommodate those who cannot move as quickly or agilely and enforced laws aimed at getting bicyclists off of sidewalks where they pose a hazard, especially to seniors and children.