West Virginia’s seniors are an integral part of the state. Their efforts have established a foundation for many people to succeed and their wisdom continues to guide us. With this in mind, it is our responsibility to help ensure that our elderly maintain a worthwhile quality of living. The importance of such is amplified, when considering that West Virginia has the second oldest population in the United States.
The “Elders Living on the Edge” report was released last week, offering a comprehensive account regarding the economic security of West Virginia’s seniors, and reminding us there is room for improvement when it comes to meeting their everyday needs.
The report offers several policy recommendations:
- Investment in home and community-based long term care options to ensure the most vulnerable older and disabled residents can access necessary services.
- Promotion of health prevention, good nutrition, and care coordination for older adults.
- Encouragement of informed planning to foster economic security during retirement.
- Ensuring sufficient housing options exist so that older adults may remain in their communities.
- Supporting unpaid caregivers, whose efforts represent the majority of long term care service delivery in the state.
- Advocating for use of the Elder Index (see above report) as a strategic planning tool in state policy-making.
Thanks to the following organizations, who collaborated to publish this report and continue to advocate on behalf of West Virginia seniors.
West Virginia Center on Budget & Policy
