Demographic experts predict that by 2034, the number of US adults aged 65 and over will surpass the number of children under 18 for the first time in history. In response to this trend, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has introduced a five-point plan designed to support seniors and Americans as they age.
The plan comprises 15 different bills currently under consideration, aiming to ensure that every American can age with dignity and financial security. Key goals include guaranteeing access to affordable meals, healthcare, Social Security benefits, age-in-place options, and aging-friendly spaces and employment for older Americans. Gillibrand also seeks to expand food security by increasing the number of food pantries, provide more home health aides and raise their pay, and make communities more accessible with improved crosswalks and other infrastructure.
A bipartisan effort with Senator Lindsay Graham (R-SC), the plan also targets age discrimination in the workplace. The implementation timeline for these bills will vary, with some measures requiring additional support from lawmakers and constituents. While the total cost to taxpayers remains unclear, Senator Gillibrand highlighted the importance of these initiatives in promoting food security and providing resources for senior citizens.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected]