U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy (NY-23) recently introduced two bipartisan bills aimed at bolstering care standards and increasing health access for older Americans, with support from congressional colleagues and leading aging organizations.
The first, H.R. 10072, the Long-Term Care Transparency Act, introduced with Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), seeks to improve transparency in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes. By mandating that the Administration on Aging compile and provide Congress with essential data gathered by state ombudsman programs, the bill aims to enhance oversight of safety, health, and residents’ rights across facilities. Langworthy stressed the importance of this oversight to ensure seniors receive high-quality care, noting that this data access will help Congress better address problem areas and set policies prioritizing seniors’ dignity and well-being. Reps. Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Mike Lawler (NY-17), and Don Davis (NC-01) have also cosponsored the bill, which has received support from groups like the National Council on Aging and the Elder Justice Coalition.
The second piece of legislation, H.R. 10071, the Evidence-Informed Health Promotion Act, co-led by Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-09), aims to broaden access to health and wellness services for seniors, particularly in rural areas. The bill would ease funding restrictions for Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), allowing these agencies to implement “evidence-informed” programs that are adaptable and cost-effective while still based on credible research. This would enable AAAs to expand initiatives for chronic disease management, fall prevention, and social programs addressing isolation among seniors.
“Every senior deserves access to programs that help them stay healthy and connected,” Langworthy said, emphasizing that the bill would help underserved communities offer more relevant services to seniors. Supported by the National Council on Aging and USAging, the legislation aligns with efforts to expand the Older Americans Act to accommodate diverse health promotion needs nationwide.
Both bills mark an increased focus on improving senior health care options, with advocates applauding Langworthy’s leadership in advancing these pressing issues in elder care and wellness.
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