Getting Government to Work For Seniors

What Seniors Want from Local, State, and Federal Governments to Improve Their Lives: A Call for Safety, Security, and Well-being*

As the senior population continues to grow, their needs and expectations from government institutions become more critical. According to U.S. Census projections, by 2030, all baby boomers will be over 65, with one in every five residents being of retirement age. This demographic shift requires thoughtful, proactive planning by local, state, and federal governments to ensure the physical, financial, and emotional well-being of seniors. What do seniors really want from these governing bodies to improve their lives and make them feel safer and more secure? From enhancing healthcare systems to ensuring financial stability, here’s a comprehensive look at the priorities seniors want to see addressed.

1. Affordable and Accessible Healthcare

Healthcare is the number one concern for seniors. The need for frequent medical attention, preventive care, and treatment for chronic conditions becomes more urgent with age.

Federal Level

At the federal level, the expansion of Medicare to cover more services is a priority for many seniors. While Medicare provides critical health coverage, gaps still exist, particularly when it comes to vision, dental, and hearing care. Many seniors are forced to pay out-of-pocket for these essential services, which places a significant financial burden on them. Seniors want to see reforms that will expand Medicare to include these services and reduce co-pays, premiums, and prescription drug costs.

State and Local Levels

At the state and local levels, seniors want more community-based healthcare services. Access to health facilities in rural areas is a growing issue, especially as smaller hospitals close and transportation becomes more challenging. Telehealth services have proven to be a lifeline for many seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a more robust infrastructure, including reliable internet and technology training, is essential for making telehealth a viable long-term solution. Local governments should also support home healthcare services, enabling seniors to age in place while receiving quality care.

2. Long-Term Care and Support Services

Long-term care is another major issue for seniors, particularly as people live longer and need assistance with daily activities.

Federal Solutions

At the federal level, seniors want more robust support for long-term care services. Currently, Medicare does not cover most long-term care services, which leaves many seniors reliant on Medicaid. Expanding programs to cover in-home care, nursing homes, and assisted living is essential. Seniors also want the federal government to provide more funding for family caregivers, offering tax credits or stipends to those who care for elderly relatives.

State and Local Involvement

State and local governments play a critical role in creating a network of accessible long-term care services. Communities should invest in affordable housing options for seniors that include assisted living and nursing care facilities. In-home care services should be subsidized, ensuring that seniors who wish to remain in their homes can do so with the necessary support. Additionally, states should provide more funding for training and hiring professional caregivers, ensuring that the quality of care remains high.

3. Protection from Fraud and Abuse

Fraud and abuse targeting seniors are increasing problems, with scammers often preying on older adults due to their vulnerability and trusting nature. Whether through telephone scams, email fraud, or financial exploitation, seniors need stronger protections from these crimes.

Federal Action

At the federal level, seniors want enhanced regulation and oversight to protect them from fraud. Strengthening penalties for crimes against seniors, increasing funding for law enforcement and regulatory agencies that focus on elder abuse, and mandating education campaigns aimed at seniors can all contribute to reducing the incidence of fraud. Additionally, seniors need more protection from financial institutions that may take advantage of their lack of understanding of complex financial products.

State and Local Action

At the state and local levels, governments should invest in awareness campaigns and educational resources that teach seniors how to recognize and avoid scams. Senior centers, libraries, and other community-based organizations can be hubs for education on this topic. Moreover, local law enforcement agencies should receive special training on elder abuse and fraud, ensuring they can address these crimes effectively.

4. Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention

As housing costs continue to rise, many seniors find themselves struggling to afford their homes. Affordable housing is crucial for seniors who live on fixed incomes, and without sufficient housing options, the risk of homelessness among older adults increases.

Federal Housing Initiatives

At the federal level, seniors want an expansion of programs like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly. These programs help provide affordable rental housing specifically for seniors, but they are underfunded and oversubscribed. Increased federal funding and the creation of new housing subsidies for seniors are essential.

State and Local Solutions

State and local governments can help by offering tax breaks for senior homeowners, reducing property taxes, and providing rent subsidies for low-income seniors. Zoning laws should be updated to encourage the development of senior housing, including co-housing and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which allow seniors to live close to family members while maintaining independence. In addition, local governments should provide home modification grants, helping seniors retrofit their homes with ramps, grab bars, and other safety features to make aging in place safer and more feasible.

5. Accessible Public Transportation

As seniors age, many lose the ability to drive, making access to reliable and affordable public transportation vital. For seniors, mobility is directly tied to their independence and quality of life.

Federal Transportation Policy

At the federal level, seniors want the government to invest in transportation infrastructure that takes their needs into account. Expanding the funding for public transportation systems through grants like the Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities program would go a long way in improving access for seniors. Moreover, the federal government should encourage states to develop senior-friendly transportation networks that include paratransit services.

State and Local Transportation Programs

At the state and local levels, governments should focus on creating more age-friendly transportation systems. This includes offering discounted or free fares for seniors, ensuring public transport is accessible for those with mobility issues, and expanding on-demand transportation services. Local governments should also invest in infrastructure improvements, such as better sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and street lighting, to make walking safer for seniors.

6. Social Engagement and Combating Loneliness

Loneliness and isolation are significant issues facing the senior population, with detrimental effects on both mental and physical health. Seniors want more opportunities for social engagement and participation in community activities.

Federal Support for Community Programs

The federal government should increase funding for programs like the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), which helps low-income seniors find part-time jobs, and the Older Americans Act (OAA), which funds meal programs and senior centers. Additionally, federal initiatives should encourage volunteerism among seniors, creating pathways for them to stay connected and engaged with their communities.

State and Local Initiatives

State and local governments should prioritize funding for community centers, parks, and recreational programs designed with seniors in mind. Local senior centers should offer a variety of activities, from exercise classes to educational workshops, fostering an inclusive environment where seniors can form friendships and maintain social connections. Creating more opportunities for intergenerational programs, where seniors can mentor younger people, would also help reduce feelings of isolation while contributing to a sense of purpose.

7. Financial Security and Retirement Stability

Many seniors worry about their financial future, especially as they live longer and face rising costs of living. Ensuring financial security and a stable retirement are critical concerns.

Federal Financial Protections

At the federal level, seniors want to see the protection of Social Security benefits. This program is a lifeline for millions of older adults, and any cuts to these benefits would be devastating. Additionally, seniors are calling for the reform of retirement savings plans to make it easier for them to save. Expanding tax incentives for retirement contributions and creating new, flexible retirement savings options would help seniors build financial security. Protection from predatory lending and payday loans is also vital to prevent financial exploitation.

State and Local Financial Programs

State and local governments can play a role by offering property tax relief for seniors, protecting them from rising property values that can push them out of their homes. States can also create retirement savings programs for workers who don’t have access to employer-sponsored plans, allowing them to save for retirement in a tax-advantaged way. Local financial literacy programs specifically aimed at seniors can help them navigate complex financial products and protect their assets.

8. Strengthening Senior Advocacy and Political Voice

Seniors want to see their voices heard in political decision-making processes. As the senior population grows, so does their political influence, and many are calling for more representation in government.

Federal Advocacy

At the federal level, seniors want increased representation in decision-making bodies, such as advisory councils and task forces that directly influence policies affecting older adults. The federal government should also create more opportunities for senior citizens to be involved in policy discussions through public forums, surveys, and town hall meetings.

State and Local Advocacy

State and local governments can foster senior advocacy by creating senior advisory boards that directly influence local policy. Offering seniors a platform to voice their concerns ensures that their needs are considered in legislative decisions. Additionally, local governments should engage in public outreach campaigns to encourage seniors to participate in elections and civic activities, empowering them to shape the policies that affect their lives.

Conclusion

Seniors across the country are calling for comprehensive changes to improve their physical and financial security. At the heart of their concerns is the desire for independence, dignity, and the ability to live fulfilling lives as they age. To achieve this, local, state, and federal governments must work together to address key areas, from healthcare and long-term care to affordable housing, transportation, and social engagement.

Through policy changes and increased funding, governments can ensure that seniors feel safe, secure, and supported. By listening to what seniors want and need, the United States

 can build a more inclusive society where people of all ages can thrive, making aging not something to fear, but something to embrace with confidence.