Capitol Commentary with U.S. Rep. Dave Loebsack

Congressman Dave Loebsack -- CROPPEDU.S. Rep. Dave Loebsack
Iowa’s Second Congressional District

 

Yesterday marked the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Older Americans Act, a landmark federal initiative to support older adults.  I was raised in part by my grandmother, so I know firsthand how important it is to support and protect Iowa’s seniors.  The Older Americans Act provides critical services that help millions of seniors thrive, including elder abuse prevention, caregiver support, and preventive health programs.

Hunger remains an urgent problem for many low-income seniors and older Americans with physical disabilities.  For this reason, last year I led a bipartisan group of nearly 50 members of the House of Representatives to fight sequestration cuts that would have slashed funding for Senior Nutrition Programs.  Funding was restored, ensuring that vulnerable seniors across the country wouldn’t go hungry because of congressional gridlock.

The Older Americans Act was an important start to an ongoing conversation about how we can meet the needs of our aging population and provide vital assistance so that seniors can live with independence and dignity.  Please know that I will always stand up for Iowa’s seniors and look forward to staying in contact about this important issue moving forward.