In the late 1960’s, the American government passed a law to help provide basic, essential items for the senior citizens of the country. It gave aging adults access to food when they could not make their own, helped seniors obtain jobs and assigned workers to navigate them through the masses of paperwork and rules that medical services required. The Older Americans Act continues to be supported by each President and is provided to those in need by the Administration of Aging.
Administration Of Aging
In order for the funds allotted for the care of senior citizens to be distributed properly, the Administration Of Aging was founded. This branch of the government reviews the budget given to them by the President and then sends out the appropriate amount to the different services for those who are in need. Preference is given to those who are in a severe situation, but each program is meant for those over the age of 65.
Meals On Wheels
Perhaps one of the most recognizable programs that came from the Older Americans Act is the Meals on Wheels service. This program is offered to senior citizens who are incapable of making or purchasing their own food. The Meals on Wheels workers prepare and then deliver the meals to the door of the elderly who are the recipients of the program. There are many private companies that also offer food to those in need, so before signing up for any meal program, seniors should verify who is providing the funds for it to prevent any confusion or surprise fees.
Jobs
Through the Older Americans Act, the government was able to reach out to the community and secure employment for senior citizens. These part time positions are usually in places such as a library or a school, facilitating face to face interaction with others. These jobs are reserved for seniors who are considered low income and need a job to supplement their limited funds. Yet another benefit of this program is that it gives the elderly the opportunity to interact with the public, thus fighting off the loneliness that some seniors are plagued by.
Medical Services
As a person ages, their medical needs begin to change. The best way to keep from developing a serious health condition is to be proactive. The Older Americans Act supports and provides programs and ideas to senior citizens to stay in the best shape possible. This service is unique to each state and can be anything from giving funds to senior citizen centers to creating swimming programs for the elderly to organizing events like dances that those over 65 years of age may enjoy. In some instances, it may be classes on how to create meals and eat in a healthier way.
The Older Americans Act makes sure that each citizen is taken care of as they age. Continuing to live a life of dignity is every person’s right and the programs provided by this law gives each senior citizen the ability to live their life to the fullest. Here at Pioneer Emergency, we are also dedicated to aging with dignity. Learn more about how a Pioneer Bodyguard medical alert can help you stay safe, and age with dignity in your own home.