With the conclusion of the 2009 state legislative session, AARP Montana is credited with a number of victories for older Montanans. As always, AARP’s mission was to look out for the interests of its members – but the top priority this session was to help older adults meet their long-term care needs by supporting home and community-based care.
A recent survey of AARP members in Montana showed that 70 percent of respondents ranked remaining in their homes as a top concern. And 75 percent said that helping people age in place should be a top legislative priority. That is why AARP Montana worked to expand the Medicaid Home and Community Based Services program. Currently nearly 500 people are on a waiting list for these services.
AARP Montana led a bipartisan coalition in securing an increase of about $10 million for Home and Community Based Services. This is especially significant in a tight budget year. AARP members were recruited to help send the message to their legislators that this was an important issue. After AARP Montana members sent thousands of postcards, emails and phone messages to key decision makers, the legislature acted in favor of Montana’s older population.
“It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we mobilize our 165,000 members in the state to send a message,” said Bob Bartholomew, AARP Montana State Director. “It’s fair to say that our message was received loud and clear – our members’ advocacy was worth their time.” To sign up as an AARP e-advocate log onto: www.aarp.org/getinvolved.
For details about utilizing the Medicaid Home and Community Based Services program call the Area Agencies on Aging at 1-800-551-3191.
Find more information about Senior and Long Term Care programs in Montana online.
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