Older Americans Month was enacted in 1963, not just as a celebration, but as an urgent call to action. At that time, one third of older Americans lived in poverty.
Things have not changed much for many older adults since 1963. In fact, for too many, life has gotten worse. Recent statistics show disturbing trends compared with last year. Higher rates of poverty and homelessness, rising incidents of financial elder abuse, more eligible seniors not enrolled in critical public benefits, and an increase in older adults losing Medicaid coverage.
And on January 1st of 2027, new Medicare requirements approved by Congress as part of the big, beautiful bill will go into effect. Those changes could make the situation dramatically worse for millions of vulnerable older adults nationwide and for thousands right here in our community.
Here are ways YOU can take action for older Americans.
- Check in our your older neighbors. About half of people aged 60+ report feeling lonely and spending much of their time alone. Did you know social isolation can lead to premature death?! Visiting an older neighbor and checking in on them regularly can make a life-saving difference!
- Volunteer with organizations that serve older adults. There are many organizations in Central Texas who serve older members of our community. Volunteering is a great way to make a difference in someone’s life and to get to know the services available in your community.
- Support Family Eldercare.
- We have volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups that connect you with older members of our community. Visit our Volunteer page.
- Consider investing in Family Eldercare. We provide a wide range of services designed to help older adults and people with disabilities remain stable, protect them from fraud and exploitation, and nurture their well-being. Donate here.
Your support, whether a donation, volunteer time, or even sharing this message, helps us keep seniors in Central Texas housed, healthy, and safe. We cannot wait until another crisis hits to act.
Together, we can provide dignity and stability for our neighbors who built this community. Thank you!
