Seniors have been granted much in life. At the age of sixteen, a driver’s license was possible. Voting rights were granted at the age of twenty-one and in 1971 eighteen-year-olds could vote. Legal Age (age of majority) between eighteen and twenty-one as determined by individual states, allowed current Seniors to enter into contracts, manage personal finances, marry, enlist in the military, vote, and have all the “rights” of adulthood. In 1967, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act prevented age discrimination for those forty and over. At sixty-five retirement was expected and Medicare became the primary health insurance option. Full Social Security benefits occurred at sixty-six and a half.
The Golden Years happened. Now Seniors have a right to be respected and be recognized not only for the wisdom of their years but the future they have made possible for younger generations. Privacy, dignity, and inclusion top a list of Senior entitlements. When actions disregard the value of Seniors does happen, who steps in? There is help.
Senior Advocates serve as voices for elders who have difficulty navigating the systems needed for financial security, complex systems… think renewing medications through a computer system or transportation. Advocates educate the elderly population about fraud and exploitation. An advocate understands the situations facing Seniors. They know the resources available and help to prevent age discrimination in its many forms, including elder abuse.
Where are Senior Advocates found? The Older Americans Act, established in 1965, funds over six hundred non-profit Area Agencies for Aging in communities across the country. Each agency has trained Senior Advocates who provide services free or a suggested income-based charge. One must be over the age of sixty to receive assistance. Federal and state governments budget for and fund each of these non-profit organizations. Area Agencies for Aging may be found through the Eldercare Locator or by calling 1.800.677.1116.
Bridge to Better Living, by offering no-cost to the client assistance, acts as an advocate for Seniors and their loved ones who are starting to research or need Independent, Assisted, Memory Assisted, or Long-Term care. Reach out to Bridge to Better Living and receive the respect and personal attention deserved. When considering transitioning, your best first choice is Bridge to Better Living.