Available Translation Services
Without reliable, real-time translation services, many elders are left vulnerable, unsure of how to access the medication that is vital to their health. Immigrant elders deserve real-time support, and there must be a communal, governmental response to bridge the language gap in healthcare. The situation has reached a point where many of these elders are now calling on the Massachusetts government to step in and provide communal translation services.
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Read Nicole's Article on Translation Services for Bill H.3084 published by COGITO

Bill's Sponsor Endorsement
Heritage Bridge's Letter of Recognition from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Rep. Adrian C. Madaro.
Bill H.3084: An Act relative to language access and inclusion:
By Representatives Madaro of Boston and González of Springfield, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3084) of Adrian C. Madaro, Carlos González and others for legislation to require state agencies to provide timely, culturally competent oral language services to all limited English proficiency individuals who seek to access services, programs, or activities. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
Pressing Challenges
One of the most common and pressing challenges elderly immigrants face is obtaining necessary medications. This issue is particularly evident in Massachusetts, where many elderly immigrants have shared their deep frustrations with the pharmacy system. The process of retrieving prescribed medicine is often described as not only inconvenient but also overwhelming due to the significant language barrier. Many elders report that pharmacists and staff do not provide enough assistance, leaving them struggling to communicate their needs effectively. Without proper translation services or interpreters, they are left uncertain about crucial details like dosages, medication instructions, potential side effects, and even how to request refills—putting their health and safety at risk.

Negative Consequences to Health
These immigrant elders face significant delays or complications simply because they cannot express their needs clearly or understand the information provided. This lack of communication support often leads to misunderstandings about their prescriptions, resulting in medication errors, skipped doses, or even abandoning the use of their medications altogether. Many elderly individuals feel an overwhelming sense of isolation and frustration as they are unable to advocate for themselves in a healthcare system that feels inaccessible and indifferent to their needs. This affects their physical well-being and also contributes to emotional stress, as they worry about whether they are taking their medications properly and fear potential health complications.

Message from Nicole Han (Founder/executive director)