Bonamici Praises President Obama’s Approval of Key Legislation to Support Seniors

Reauthorization of Older Americans Act Strengthens Services that Help Seniors Live Independently

WASHINGTON, DC [04/19/16]–Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) made the following statement after President Obama signed into law an update to the Older Americans Act (OAA), which delivers nutritional and social services to millions of older adults.

“For more than 50 years, OAA programs have made it possible for seniors to remain independent and healthy, and to age with dignity in their homes and communities,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “From the Chehalem Senior Center in Newberg to Meals on Wheels in Seaside, I have seen how OAA programs help seniors remain connected to their communities and avoid costlier long-term care. Older adults deserve to live independent, healthy, and fulfilling lives, and the law signed by the President will help meet the need for services for this growing population. I’m glad that this update provides tools to curb both financial and physical elder abuse by promoting proven strategies for responding to mistreatment, neglect, and exploitation. President Obama and Congress have demonstrated their bipartisan commitment to supporting America’s older adults, and I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to strengthen these programs in the future.”

Congresswoman Bonamici took a lead role in helping to pass the OAA in the House of Representatives. You can watch video of Bonamici speaking about the OAA here. The law signed by President Obama extends OAA programs for the next three years and increases investments in these programs. The legislation also strengthens protections against elder abuse, improves nutrition services, and updates the Family Caregiver Support Program. To read a summary of the law, click here.

###