May is Older Americans Month, and May 9-13, 2022, has been identified as Senior Action Week in Michigan. Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more. Sponsored by the Area Agencies on Aging Association and Michigan’s sixteen Area Agencies on Aging, Senior Action Week and Older Michiganians Day on May 11 are designed to focus attention on public policy issues of importance to older adults, their families, and caregivers, including more than 1,300 service providers that directly deliver an array of supports and services to more than 250,000 seniors and persons with disabilities annually.
The Aging Network has prioritized five platform issues for 2022: Support and Strengthen the Direct Care Workforce, Rebalance Community-Based Long-Term Services and Support (LTSS), Expand Access to MI Choice, Increase Access to Home and Community-Based Services, and Bridge the Digital Divide for Older Adults.
Individuals interested in participating in advocacy efforts, including social media messaging, a letter writing campaign, and a rally and livestreamed event at the Capitol on Wednesday May 11 should contact their local Area Agency on Aging. Locally that includes the Tri-County Office on Aging (Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties), Region 2 Area Agency on Aging (Jackson, Hillsdale and Lenawee), and Genesee Valley Area Agency on Aging (Shiawassee, Genesee, and Lapeer.) A directory of agencies can be found at www.4ami.org.
“It is more important than ever that older adults in Michigan have timely access to in-home services to live independently in their own homes,” said Area Agencies on Aging President, Julie Wetherby. “Senior Action Week is an opportunity for older adults and advocates to speak with one voice to the Governor and Legislators about assuring the aging network is there for all older Michiganders who need a little help.”
“This week we are highlighting the importance of aging network services,” said David LaLumia, Executive Director of the Area Agencies on Aging Association of Michigan. “The aging network promotes health aging, dignity, and independence for all older adults and persons with disabilities. We are urging more support for the direct care workforce, expansion of the Medicaid MI Choice program, and improved access to home and community-based services for persons who are not Medicaid beneficiaries.”
For additional information, contact Jenn Dubey, Operations Manager, at 517-886-1029
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