Press Releases
Dingell Hosts Long-term Care Conversation for Seniors & Caregivers
Ann Arbor, MI,
June 29, 2015
In advance of the White House Conference on Aging in July, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) today hosted a community conversation on long-term care in Ann Arbor. More than 100 seniors and caregivers joined the conversation, which offered participants an opportunity to share issues and concerns, meet with representatives from local agencies and organizations, and hear from experts in the field of long-term care and elder care. The event is the first in a series of conversations Dingell is holding across the district. “We need to ensure that seniors are able to age with the dignity and security they deserve,” Dingell said. “Today, many people are facing the issue of long-term care – for themselves, for parents, for spouses and other family members. Helping seniors get the care they need in the setting of their choice, while remaining active, contributing members of society is something we can all agree on. We need to work with our communities and stakeholders to improve the long-term care system in this country, support caregivers, and improve Medicare and Medicaid.” “It is gratifying to know that Congresswoman Dingell is continuing to advocate for the needs of all of our citizens,” said Mandy Grewal, Pittsfield Township Supervisor. “We were very happy to welcome her to Pittsfield Township for this critical conversation.” “As our population continues to age, we must ensure there are long-term supports in place that will provide seniors and caregivers with the highest quality of life,” said Jim McGuire, Director of Research, Policy and Advocacy at the Area Agency on Aging 1B. “I applaud Congresswoman Dingell for bringing this issue to the forefront, and was pleased to be part of today’s event.” “Given the amount of folks in the room today, this is obviously a pressing concern for many in the community besides me,” said Ann Arbor resident Susan Beckett. “I’m so appreciative, not only that Congresswoman Dingell is working on this, but that she is taking the time to figure out what obstacles people are facing in long-term care. The resources at this event were helpful and the conversation was enlightening.” Agencies and organizations represented at the long-term care conversation included:
One of Dingell’s top priorities is bringing the country’s long-term care system into the 21st century. The first bill she introduced, the Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act of 2015, addresses one piece of the puzzle by providing for Medicare to cover hearing aids for beneficiaries. Last month, she released a Long-term Care Guidebook, which provides resources for people dealing with long-term care in Southeast Michigan. Seniors in the Twelfth District who need help navigating the long-term care system are encouraged to contact Dingell’s office at (313) 278-2936. |