Advocacy is a core value at Legacy Link, where our mission is to support aging adults and individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have a voice in shaping policies that impact their lives. Our team recently attended the USAging Policy Briefing and Capitol Day, engaging in vital discussions on advocacy strategies and policy priorities.
During the briefing, we explored key issues affecting older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers, including:
- Federal Budget Process and USAging’s 2025 Policy Agenda
- Protecting Medicaid for Older Adults
- Medicare Challenges and Opportunities
- Advancing Better Caregiving Policies
- Congressional Perspectives on Aging Issues
Following these discussions, Legacy Link CEO Melissa Armstrong and Community Engagement Director Jessica Zagarella joined leaders from the Atlanta Regional Commission Becky Kurtz, Connie White, Sharise Byrd and members from Northwest Georgia Area Agency on Aging, Lynne Reeves and Lindsey Wilson to advocate for aging policies on Capitol Hill. Our priorities for 2025 include:
Supporting Aging Well at Home Through Older Americans Act (OAA) Programs and Services
- Urging Congress to reauthorize the OAA to ensure the continuation of critical aging services.
- Advocating for adequate OAA funding to help older adults remain in their homes, reducing reliance on institutional care.
- Increasing support for Title VI Native American Aging Programs to assist economically disadvantaged American Indian elders.
Implementing the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers
- Expanding access to home and community-based services (HCBS) across Medicaid, Medicare, and the Veterans Health Administration.
- Addressing workforce shortages in direct care and other aging-related fields.
Protecting Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)
- Ensuring older adults have the option to receive care at home rather than in institutions.
- Recognizing HCBS as a cost-effective and preferred choice for older adults relying on Medicaid.
Connecting Health Care and Aging Sectors to Reduce Costs
- Supporting integrated care models that enhance, rather than replace, the Aging Network’s expertise.
- Addressing funding gaps for social care services to strengthen support for older adults.
Engaging with Lawmakers
Legacy Link representatives, along with the Atlanta Regional Commission and Northwest Area Agency on Aging met with policymakers, including staff from the offices of Senator Raphael Warnock, Senator Jon Ossoff, Representative Rick Allen, and Representative Lucy McBath, to emphasize the need for continued investment in aging services.
A Call to Action
We encourage community members, caregivers, and stakeholders to join us in advocating for policies that uphold independence, affordability, and dignity for older adults. Contact your local representatives, share your stories, and support initiatives that help aging adults live with dignity and independence.
By working together with policymakers and community partners, we can ensure a future where older adults receive the support they need to thrive.
