Enhancing Aging Programs and Services: A Closer Look at Rhode Island’s Proposed Budget
Rhode Island’s proposed budget for 2024 has recently garnered attention for its notable funding allocations toward programs and services benefiting seniors and older adults with disabilities. Maureen Maigret, chair of the Aging in Community Subcommittee of Rhode Island’s Long-Term Care Coordinating Council and policy consultant for the Senior Agenda Coalition of RI, expresses her satisfaction with the budget’s provisions. This article by Herb Weiss explores the key highlights of the budget, emphasizing the significance of these measures while also highlighting opportunities for further consideration. So, what’s in it…
Expanding Support: The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC):
The Office of Healthy Aging (OHA) will receive an additional $250,000 in general revenue for the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). Previously operating with limited federal funds, this marks the first time ADRC will receive state funding. The ADRC plays a vital role in offering counseling, assistance with benefit applications, and guidance through the fragmented system of care. The increased funding will enable ADRC to better serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, and family caregivers.
Strengthening Protective Services:
To address the rising reports of elder abuse and exploitation, the budget includes funds to support two new staff positions within OHA’s protective services unit. With over 6,000 calls received by OHA’s Adult Protective Services last year, the additional funding will ensure timely investigations and enhance protection for older adults at risk of abuse and neglect.
Improving Quality of Life for Nursing Home Residents:
Recognizing the long-overdue need for adjustment, the budget raises the Personal Needs Allowance (PNA) for nursing home residents on Medicaid from $50 to $75 per month. This increase, the first since 1999, aims to assist thousands of nursing home residents in covering essential expenses such as haircuts, clothing, and telephone service.
Promoting Accessibility and Aging in Place:
Another noteworthy addition to the budget is the allocation of $250,000 to enhance the funding for the Livable Home Modification grant program, bringing the total to $0.8 million. This program assists individuals in making home modifications and accessibility enhancements to support aging in place and remain in community settings. While addressing housing affordability, which benefits a broader population, the program indirectly benefits older adults as well.
Rhode Island’s proposed budget for 2024 reflects a commendable commitment from state leaders to address the evolving needs of our aging population. The funding allocations towards ADRC, protective services, nursing home residents, and accessibility enhancements demonstrate a positive step toward creating an age-friendly state. However, there are areas, such as economic security, where further attention is required. By fostering intergenerational collaboration and continuously evaluating policies through an age-friendly lens, Rhode Island can pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive future for its older residents.
Read the full article at https://rinewstoday.com/path-to-an-age-friendlier-budget-herb-weiss/