This one is for our parents.

Last month the House passed the bipartisan Dignity in Aging Act, an important piece of legislation I introduced to support 11 million Americans ages 60 and over. This legislation provides:

• Robust funding increases for vital community-based programs like Meals on Wheels as well as transportation, part-time job opportunities, and more.
• Advanced support for caregivers, particularly by eliminating funding caps that limit the support older relative caregivers (think grandparents raising grandchildren) can receive.
• A greater focus on social isolation by empowering local organizations to address the issue. Social isolation greatly increases the risk of serious conditions like stroke, heart disease, dementia, and early death.
• New tools and innovation at the national level through the Department of Health and Human Services. The bill also establishes a national research center dedicated to creating evidence-based programs and interventions.
• Improved services for at-risk populations, including individuals who are justice-involved, Native Americans, and others.
• Assistance for communities to address the needs of older Americans by coordinating efforts to promote safe, accessible, and independent living environments.

The goal is to make sure that aging seniors have access to food, transportation, and the essential services they need to live safely, independently, and with dignity.

I have heard and read too many stories about seniors rationing medication or saving portions of their meals so they can stretch their resources just a bit further into the week. We can – and with this bill, we will – do better for those who cared for us.

More soon,

Suzanne