Washington, Jun 21 -  

The House of Representatives has approved legislation written by Rep. Pat Tiberi (R-Delaware County) renewing the nation's commitment to services for senior citizens provided under the Older Americans Act.

"The most important part of my job as a congressman is to help people," said Tiberi, "and helping people is what this bill is all about. The Senior Independence Act renews and improves the programs that seniors use in our communities, neighborhoods, and in their own homes every day."

Tiberi said some programs, such as those providing meals and nutritional services for seniors, are well known. Just as important are others that include community service employment, abuse prevention, in-home care, and the long-term care ombudsman program.

It is estimated that more than 36 million people in the United States are over the age of 65, and that number will rise sharply in future years. This year, members of the Baby Boom generation begin turning 60, the age at which they become eligible for benefits under the Older Americans Act. In 2011, the first "boomers" will reach 65 and by 2030, it is projected that one in five people will be 65 or older.

"Keeping up with these numbers and meeting changing needs are among the challenges we faced as we put together our bill," said Tiberi. He noted several steps his legislation takes to meet those challenges:

• Promoting measures – such as nutrition programs and health screenings – that reduce seniors’ risk of injury, disease, or disability;
• Improving access to health care by supporting resource centers in every community where older Americans and their families can go for reliable information about long-term care options, community support services, and important health benefits such as Medicare prescription drug coverage; and
• Encouraging states and communities to plan for an increasing number of older Americans.

"I'm particularly pleased with the process that led to the unanimous vote for this measure," said Tiberi, who chairs the House Subcommittee on Select Education. "First, it was bipartisan. Rep. Ruben Hinojosa (D-TX), the ranking subcommittee member, worked closely with me in putting this bill together. Just as important, we went across the country, to Westerville, Ohio and Edinburg, Texas to hear from seniors, program providers and others about how we can provide services more effectively. What we heard is reflected in this bill.

"I hope the Senate will now follow the House's lead and move quickly to pass this legislation. Our seniors deserve no less."