What does Preamble of Caring for Seniors Act do?

This bill is formally titled 'To address the worsening long-term care workforce crisis and increase access to and affordability of long-term care.'

What does SHORT TITLE. of Caring for Seniors Act do?

This bill is formally titled the Caring for Seniors Act.

What does FINDINGS. of Caring for Seniors Act do?

This section outlines findings related to the aging population and the increasing need for long-term care in the United States. The population is aging rapidly, with a significant increase projected for those 85 and older. A large percentage of Americans over 65 will require long-term care, and the number needing paid services is expected to triple by 2050. Many Americans, particularly baby boomers, lack sufficient retirement savings to cover long-term care expenses. Long-term care is a significant expense, consuming a substantial portion of national health care spending and straining Medicaid budgets. Some seniors in skilled nursing homes may not require high-level care, leading to asset depletion and increased Medicaid reliance. Offering veterans assisted living instead of nursing homes could result in significant cost savings for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Strengthening cost-effective long-term care models and addressing workforce shortages are suggested as ways to reduce Medicaid spending. Congregate care models like assisted living are significantly less expensive than nursing homes or round-the-clock home health aides. The senior living industry has experienced job losses and faces a substantial workforce shortage by 2040.

What does ADDRESSING THE LONG-TERM CARE WORKFORCE CRISIS. of Caring for Seniors Act do?

This section addresses the long-term care workforce crisis. It directs the Secretary of Labor to expand workforce programs to support the direct care workforce, including core certification and training requirements for assisted living facilities. The Secretary of Health and Human Services is similarly directed to establish and expand workforce education and training grant programs. These programs aim to address shortages in the direct care workforce serving an aging population and those with disabilities, providing home and community-based services. The definition of 'assisted living facility' includes residences providing supportive services to elderly individuals or those with disabilities who are unrelated to the owner or operator. The 'direct care workforce' encompasses individuals providing services to promote independence, including assistance with daily living, community inclusion, and personal goals.

What does SENIOR CARE COST REDUCTION PROGRAM. of Caring for Seniors Act do?

This section establishes the 'Senior Care Cost Reduction Program' under the Older Americans Act of 1965. The program aims to provide allotments to states to administer monthly cost reduction amounts to assist low-income seniors in assisted living facilities. States must apply to the Assistant Secretary to receive allotments, providing information as reasonably required. Initially, the monthly amount provided to eligible recipients will be $1,000, adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index. Eligibility requires approval by a state agency, being at least 70 years old, residing in an approved assisted living facility, and meeting specific health and financial criteria. Financial eligibility requires a net monthly income below assisted living facility fees, a net annual income not exceeding 60% of the state's median income, and resources not exceeding $19,000 (single) or $25,000 (married). The term 'assisted living facility' is defined as a licensed residence providing housing with supportive services to elderly or disabled individuals.

What does AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. of Caring for Seniors Act do?

This section authorizes appropriations from recovered funds. Recovered funds include amounts returned to the Health Resources and Services Administration or the Department of the Treasury. These funds originate from amounts disbursed to eligible health care providers for coronavirus-related expenses or lost revenues. The relevant funding sources are Public Law 116-136, Public Law 116-139, and Public Law 116-260.

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Caring for Seniors Act

Last updated: 4/24/2025 · Introduced: 4/24/2025

Author: Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA)

TL;DR (AI)

The bill establishes a Senior Care Cost Reduction Program to provide monthly financial assistance of up to $1,000 to low-income seniors residing in assisted living facilities, adjusted annually for inflation.
It directs the Secretaries of Labor and Health and Human Services to expand workforce programs and grant initiatives aimed at addressing shortages in the direct care workforce supporting seniors and individuals with disabilities.
The bill authorizes appropriations for these programs using recovered funds previously disbursed to healthcare providers for coronavirus-related expenses.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 4 more.

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