On May 16 at the New England AANHPI Senior Cultural and Wellness Expo in Burlington—hosted by India Association of Greater Boston, which received support for this event through AAPIC’s 2026 AAPI Small Grants—Commissioner Vaishali Gade joined seniors, families, and service providers for a day focused on health, culture, and connection.
The Expo offered an important mix of practical resources, including healthcare enrollment support, insurance guidance, heart health and Alzheimer’s screenings, and planning tools such as wills and trusts—alongside cultural performances and warm Indian delicacies that helped create a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere.
During the event, Commissioner Gade heard directly from seniors about the realities they face accessing care and support, including navigating complex healthcare and insurance systems, rising costs, and limited awareness of available services. Providers also shared their ongoing efforts to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps so seniors can more comfortably and confidently access the support they need.
These conversations underscore an important point: while services exist, access does not always reach the communities who need them most.
In her remarks, which reflected the stories, concerns, and lived experiences shared with the Commission, she emphasized that the challenges facing older adults—particularly around rising costs, language access, and safety—cannot be solved by any one group alone.
Closing that gap, she said, requires a shared effort—state advocacy from the Commission, the on-the-ground work of providers and community organizations, and the active engagement of younger generations, along with the broader ecosystem of partners who make access possible.
She concluded with a call to action:
- To our community partners and advocates: Do not stop telling us what you need. Bring your data, your stories, and your challenges to the AAPIC. We are your megaphone at the State House.
- To our younger generations: Step into the gap. Bridge the digital and linguistic divides for your parents and grandparents. Volunteer, listen to their stories, and ensure they are never left invisible.
- And to all of us: Keep raising your voices. Keep showing up, keep voting, and keep guiding us. Your wisdom is our compass.
