Department on Aging should be expanded

President Lyndon Johnson signed the Older Americans Act into law 45 years ago. Because of this law, older Iowans have more access to community-based services and are able to stay safely in their homes longer. The programs created by this act pay for critical nutrition services, elder rights programs, outreach, elder abuse prevention and other supportive services.

Nearly 15 percent of Iowa's population is over age 65. Projections are that by 2030 nearly one in every four Iowans will be over 65. Iowans need to address the unique needs of its aging population. That leadership should come from the Iowa Department on Aging, working with the strong network of providers and advocates.

More resources should be dedicated to preserving services to older Iowans and the focus should be on helping people age safely in their own homes and communities, avoiding more-costly institutional services. That allows them to continue to pay real estate taxes, purchase items locally, use their funds to employ individuals providing services in their homes, keep their funds in local financial institutions and continue to support their local communities - a good investment in Iowa's economy.

Many states have found they could create more efficient delivery systems by creating an integrated department that addresses all people with long-term care needs. Iowa should consider expanding the role of the Department on Aging to serve Iowans with long-term care needs.

Elizabeth Selk

Director