McSally Introduces Bipartisan Bills to Help Older Americans

Statement

U.S. Senator Martha McSally (R-AZ) introduced a bipartisan package of legislation to provide and enhance support systems for older Americans.

McSally introduced the Promoting Opportunity for Women Entering Retirement (POWER) Act and the Care Across Generations Act with Sen. Doug Jones (D-AL). The legislation would help aging Americans maintain financial security and build intergenerational connections.

"Arizona's aging population is growing rapidly," said McSally. "My priority is to make sure that aging Arizonans receive the care they need later in life. This legislation will allow aging Americans to learn valuable retirement planning skills, join uplifting communities, and live long and enjoyable lives."

"As a society, we need to do a much better job of caring for the elderly and ensuring that they can continue to live in dignity as they age," said Jones. "These bills will expand resources and support for older Americans and their families, and enable them to participate in meaningful ways in their communities."

The Promoting Opportunity for Women Entering Retirement (POWER) Act, legislation would improve older women's economic security by codifying the National Resource Center on Women and Retirement Planning, which provides retirement planning tools and financial education to women who are most at-risk for poverty in older age. In addition to helping women plan for their future financial, health care, and caregiving needs, the Center educates seniors about scams and predatory practices, which disproportionately affect older women and cost Americans billions of dollars each year. By strengthening this program, the POWER Act would help thousands of additional seniors avoid poverty and remain independent and financially secure.

The Care Across Generations Act would establish child care programs at long-term care facilities and fund activities to bring people from different generations together. Intergenerational programs provide a wide range of benefits to both the older adults and the children who participate. Children in intergenerational programs benefit from the wisdom and support of older adults, which can translate to significant academic and behavioral gains. Meanwhile, engaging with children reduces older adults' social isolation, which is tied to a wide range of positive health outcomes.

On April 2, McSally highlighted the impact Alzheimer's has on Arizona families during a U.S. Senate Committee on Aging.

Source