Title
Health and Human Services Agency, Community Services Division, recommending the Board approve and authorize the Chair to sign a letter to support U.S. Senate Bill 192 (S. 192) for the reauthorization of the Older Americans Act through 2018.
Body
DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATION
The Older Americans Act (OAA) funds senior services programs designed to improve the lives of seniors age 60 and over and eligible disabled or at-risk adults residing in the County. Reauthorization provides an opportunity to update and modernize the OAA to better serve the rapidly growing number of older adults in our community, and strengthens the ability of the Act to address the pressing challenges that threaten the independence, health, and economic security of seniors in need.
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
The OAA was first enacted in 1965 to help older adults remain safe, healthy, and independent in their own homes. Services funded by the OAA include congregate and home delivered meals, senior legal, health promotion and disease prevention, family caregiver support, transportation, senior center services, Long-Term Care Ombudsman, and elder abuse prevention. The OAA was reauthorized in 2006 and authorization expired at the end of Fiscal Year 2011.
ALTERNATIVES
N/A
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
The El Dorado County Commission on Aging voted unanimously to request the Board of Supervisors support for the reauthorization of the OAA.
CAO RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the board approve this item if it supports the reauthorization of the Older Americans Act through 2018.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no financial impact to the County associated with the letter of support.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
Clerk of the Board to obtain Chair signature on two (2) copies of the letter of support and mail to each addressee.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
N/A
CONTACT
Don Ashton, M.P.A., Director