Maine has a unique opportunity to lead the country in how we support and value older adults. Right now, we’re falling behind.

As the oldest state, Maine should be strengthening — not shrinking — its aging support system. Instead, the current supplemental budget includes no additional funding for the essential services that help people age safely at home.

Maine’s five area agencies on aging provide critical programs such as Meals on Wheels, Medicare counseling, family caregiver support and more. These services are lifelines for older residents and their families. They also save the state money by preventing avoidable hospitalizations and nursing home placements.

LD 814, the Older Mainers Act, offers us a chance to change course. The bill invests $9.75 million in Maine’s aging infrastructure — a modest amount compared to the projected $10.5 million in savings and the nearly $4.75 million returned directly to older residents.

This is not just good policy, it is smart, compassionate governance. And it will only happen if we speak up.

I urge every reader to contact their legislators and tell them to support LD 814. Let’s show the rest of the nation what it looks like to honor our older residents and build a future where we can all age with dignity.

Pamela Partridge
Advocacy volunteer, AARP Maine
North Anson