On February 11th, seniors, advocates, and policymakers gathered at the Georgia State Capitol for Senior Day, an event dedicated to raising awareness and promoting policies that benefit older adults. This impactful day was made possible by the Georgia Council on Aging (GCOA) and the Coalition of Advocates for Georgia’s Elderly (CO-AGE), whose efforts continue to make a difference in the lives of seniors across the state. Legacy Link was proud to participate, aligning with our mission to advocate for and support older adults.
Over 400 attendees demonstrated the strong support for senior advocacy in Georgia. Forsyth County Senior Services brought 45 patrons who had the opportunity to meet with legislators from their district to discuss key issues affecting older adults.
A Day of Engagement and Recognition
The day began with guided tours of the Capitol, offering attendees a firsthand look at Georgia’s legislative process. Participants had the opportunity to meet with legislators, visit the chamber galleries, and engage in meaningful discussions. One of the highlights was the 2025 Distinguished Older Georgian Ceremony, where Ms. Carleen Cumberbatch was honored for her outstanding contributions as a senior volunteer for over 30 years.
Advocacy in Action
A key focus of the day was advocacy, with seniors engaging directly with lawmakers. By sharing personal experiences and concerns, attendees ensured that the voices of older adults were heard in legislative discussions. Legacy Link, among other advocacy groups, was proud to participate and share the top priorities for the 2025 legislative session.
This year, CO-AGE has outlined several legislative priorities, including:
- Increasing in Funding for Non-Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)
- Updating the Georgia Code for Multidisciplinary Teams for Adult Abuse, Neglect & Exploitation
- Conducting a study of Medicaid in Assisted Living Facilities
- Supported Decision-Making Documents as an Alternative to Adult Guardianship
- Medical Aid in Dying (MAID)
Building Community Connections
Senior Day also provided an opportunity for attendees to network and build relationships. Seniors, family members, and service providers came together to share stories and connect with organizations dedicated to improving the well-being of older adults in Georgia.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on the success of this year’s event, it’s clear that advocacy for seniors must remain a priority. Ongoing engagement and legislative action are necessary to ensure the needs of older adults are met. We encourage everyone to stay involved by attending local meetings, reaching out to lawmakers, and advocating for policies that support Georgia’s senior community.
Get Involved
Stay informed about upcoming events and advocacy opportunities by visiting our website at www.LegacyLink.org, subscribing to our newsletter, and following us on social media. To support our mission of advocating for aging adults and individuals with disabilities, please consider donating to Legacy Link.
