AARP: Making Things Better In Kentucky
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2003-09-22 14:23:56
I joined AARP when I became 50 years old. By that time I had learned the ways of the world well enough to know I needed a powerful organization on my side that was dedicated to serving and protecting seniors at the national level. I admit it was shocking to realize I had reached the age of eligibility. Years of watching AARP convinced me it stood for the right things and it operated from a strong moral and ethical foundation. The products and discounts were nice, too.
When I retired, I became an AARP volunteer and I discovered the need to advocate for senior issues at the state level. With volunteer leadership and help, AARP Kentucky worked to assure quality in assisted living facilities, increased the number of ombudsmen that assist people in nursing homes, and stopped telemarketers in Kentucky. We worked for restrictions on predatory lenders, fought for the rights of seniors to be cared for in their own homes rather than a nursing home - if that was their choice. We raised the issue of grandparent's rights and obligations, fought elder abuse, and took the side of seniors on many other issues.
In communities all over Kentucky there are other AARP volunteers helping people through Tax-aide and Driver Safety programs. Kentucky members and chapters help those in need, preserve veterans' history, pitch in at Habitat for Humanity, work at the veteran's hospitals and do real service in hundreds of ways.
There is a lot of work to do in Kentucky. Too many of our seniors live in poverty, too many are abused, and too many are swindled. There are people in nursing homes who could, and should, be receiving care in their own homes. Others need nursing home care and are being kicked out because of Medicaid cuts. Our state can do better, and AARP will keep pushing for the needed improvements.
Kentuckians want their children properly educated, opportunities for all in their working lives, and seniors who enjoy health and dignity in their retirement years. AARP members, staff, and volunteers work to make it all happen. AARP is doing good things in your community and has the power to make things better all across our state. You can be proud to be a Kentucky member of AARP and we welcome you.
Bill Harned
AARP Kentucky State President
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