With ‘Good Morning Newbury,’ Police, Council on Aging Seek to Connect with Isolated Seniors

NEWBURY — The Newbury Police Department and Newbury Council on Aging are teaming up to ensure that senior residents who live alone feel safe in their homes.

The Department and Council have launched “Good Morning Newbury,” a contact program that connects seniors with department staff each day, reducing isolation and allowing first responders to react quickly in an emergency.

“‘Good Morning Newbury’ is a wonderful lifeline for our seniors who may be isolated for any number of reasons,” Council on Aging Director Cindy Currier said. “A friendly voice on the phone can offer a sense of security and belonging and have a profound effect on their mental well-being. Thank you to the Department for supporting this effort.”

The program is voluntary. Participants will provide police with information such as emergency contacts, healthcare providers, medications, vehicles on the property, a current photo, and how to access the residence. Family members and caregivers are welcome to assist with registration; however, the senior resident must initiate the registration as they are the foundation of the program.

Residents’ information is for use by the police only and will not be shared.

Registered participants are asked to call the Newbury Communication Center from 8-11 a.m. daily to say, “Good morning!” and confirm that they are okay. If a senior fails to call by 11 a.m., a dispatcher will attempt to contact the senior by phone.

If contact still cannot be made, the dispatcher will send an officer to the home for a well-being check. The Newbury Fire Department, medical first responders, and/or emergency contacts will be reached if needed.

“We hope this program will provide peace of mind to our seniors and their loved ones,” Chief Patricia A. Fisher said. “In the case of an emergency, we will be able to respond more quickly when every minute counts. I encourage all seniors living alone to sign up. We’re here to help.”

Residents ages 65 years or older who live alone may register through the Council on Aging at 12 Kent Way, Byfield, or by visiting or contacting the Newbury Police Department at 7 Morgan Ave., 978-462-4440, ext. 0.