Originally enacted in 1965, the Older Americans Act was the first initiative by the federal government to help seniors remain independent in their homes and communities. On March 28, 14 U.S. Senators (all Democrats) called for renewal of the Older Americans Act , whose programs provide basic necessities such as home delivered meals, home-care and help coordinating long term services and supports (LTSS) to our nation's older adults.
In the words of Senator Herb Kohl:
“Older Americans Act programs embody a commonsense, low-cost approach to helping millions of older Americans live independently in their communities, and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and institutionalization. Through modest investments in home-delivered meals, transportation, support for family caregivers, assistance for those who are the victims of abuse, and other services, we’re supporting our seniors and saving taxpayer dollars."
The National Council on Aging, like many advocacy groups for older adults and LTSS providers continue to mobilize for broad public support for this critical legislation.
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