2021 State Legislative Forum | Texas

Posted on

Mar 22, 2021

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The Senior Source, VNA of Texas, and the Dallas Area Gerontological Society invite you to our State Legislative Forum. Learn about the 2021 legislative priorities we will continue to advocate for throughout the year. We need your help to stand for older adults in North Texas and to be a voice for the voiceless.
View the webinar here:


Priority #1 Protection of Long-Term Care Facility Residents
Texas consistently ranks as one of the worst states in the country when it comesto quality of care for long-term care facility residents. These vulnerable, isolatedindividuals deserve better treatment and protection at this stage of their lives.Covid-19 amplified many of the flaws in resident care, and there are opportunitiesin this legislative session to improve some of these issues and strengthen the careand protection of long-term care residents.
SJR 19, HJR 46, SB 267, HB 892 House and Senate bills to create aconstitutional amendment or requirement by Health and Human ServicesCommission establishing a right for residents of certain facilities to designate anessential caregiver for in-person visitation with whom the facility may not prohibitin-person visitation.
SB 270 A long-term care facility may file a civil action against a residentsresponsible payor for misappropriation of the residents funds.
SB 271 Expands criminal history check to include previous residence(s) outsidethe state of Texas.
HB 1221 Expands current legislation relating to communicable disease andinfection prevention and control measures for long-term care facilities to include,but not limited to,:
Providing a safe, sanitary and comfortable environment;
Help prevent transmission of communicable diseases;
Designating a quality assessment and assurance committee; and
Authorizing an administrative penalty.

Priority #2 Elder Financial Abuse Protection
Elder financial abuse is rampant in Texas and across the country. Older adultslose more than $36 billion each year to frauds, scams and exploitation. Thesecrimes must be prevented; older adults need to be better protected; and thosecommitting these crimes should be prosecuted. Legislative action that holdsperpetrators accountable and strengthens protections for vulnerable older adultsis needed.
HB 1156 Related to creating the criminal offense of financial abuse of an elderly individual. Defining penalties for financial exploitation or abuse.
SB 109 Related to the criminal offense of fraudulent securing of document execution without a persons express consent.
HB 491 Related to increasing the statute of limitations for aggravated assaultand for financial crimes against older adults.
HB 536 Related to the entry into the Texas Crime Information Center ofinformation concerning the release on bond of persons charged with committinga violent offense.

Priority #3 Food Security for Older Adults/SNAP Provisions
Food insecurity for older adults across the state has only increased during theCovid-19 pandemic. We should be making it easier for older Texans and thosewith disabilities to access this benefit, not more difficult. For many who are eligible to receive SNAP benefits, the process is so cumbersome and arduous,they simply give up and go without. We must do better and lengthen theeligibility time and simplify the application process.
HB 1019; SB 224; HB 701 Related to Implementing a simplified applicationprocess. Households composed solely of seniors and/or persons with a disabilitywith no earned income can be certified for 36 months using a shortenedapplication form with limited documentation requirements.
HB 1230 Related to eliminating the Vehicle Asset Test for the SNAPapplication process.

Other Critical Issues to follow:
Medicaid Expansion
Among the 50 states, Texas has the highest number and percentage of uninsuredcitizens. Medicaid Expansion would provide health insurance coverage for upto 1.5 million Texas citizens age 19-64, who earn less than 138% of the federalpoverty level, at a $90-$10 federal funding match.
SB 118 & 119 Related to State Medicaid ExpansionHousing, Tenant and Financial Protections
SB 265 Related to fighting housing discrimination based on source of income(vouchers, etc.)
SB TBD - Related to creating a voluntary state certification for safe independentliving facilities that will incentivize best practices and inform seniors as they makehousing decisions; improving tenant protections for seniors leasing in independentliving; and conducting audits to enforce existing state laws on cash-for-gold shopsthat fence stolen jewelry.

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Will Federal Medicaid Changes Affect Colorados Long-Term Care Medicaid? Heres the Answer

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Financial Planning for Long-Term Senior Care

The rising cost of senior care can come as a shock to many families. Whether your loved one wishes to age in place, transition to assisted living, or explore memory care options, having a financial plan in place is critical to ensuring quality care without unexpected burdens. Planning ahead provides families with more options, greater peace of mind, and the ability to align care decisions with long-term goals.First, its important to understand the typical costs of various types of care. According to Genworths most recent Cost of Care Survey, the national median monthly cost for assisted living is over $4,500, while in-home care can cost between $25 and $30 per hour. These figures vary by region, and services like memory care or skilled nursing can cost significantly more. This makes early planning essential.Families should begin by assessing current income, savings, and assets. Does your loved one have a retirement plan or long-term care insurance? If not, consider whether existing resources could be stretched to cover care with support from public programs. Some seniors may qualify for benefits like VA Aid and Attendance, which helps veterans, and their spouses pay for personal care services. Others might eventually become eligible for Medicaid, which can help cover nursing home or in-home support if income and asset limits are met. Its also important to know that Medicare typically does not cover long-term care, only short-term rehab or skilled nursing following a hospital stay.Working with a financial advisor or elder law attorney can help families build a strategy that factors in care needs, housing, and estate planning. The National Council on Aging offers excellent resources, including the BenefitsCheckUp tool, to help seniors identify financial aid and local services. When financial planning is approached with care and clarity, it not only protects assets it protects dignity and choice for your aging loved one.If you have any questions, please call us at 303-957-2555.

The Benefits of Personal Care Companionship for Seniors

Personal care companionship is more than just help around the houseits a relationship built on trust, kindness, and presence. For many seniors, its the key to aging with dignity, maintaining meaningful connections, and continuing to live life on their own terms. Here are some of the benefits of hiring a personal care company. Enhanced Emotional Well-beingLoneliness and isolation are major issues for many older adults. A companion provides regular interaction and someone to talk to, helping reduce feelings of sadness, anxiety, and depression. Having a trusted person who genuinely listens and engages in meaningful conversations can uplift spirits and provide a much-needed emotional boost.Improved Safety and SupportCompanions assist with mobility and can help prevent falls and ensure that daily routineslike taking medication or preparing mealsare done safely. This added layer of attention is especially beneficial for individuals with mild cognitive decline or physical limitations.Maintained IndependenceSeniors often want to remain in their own homes as long as possible. Personal care companionship supports this goal by providing help without taking away a sense of control. Companions encourage independence while offering just enough support to make life easier and more manageable.Family Peace of MindKnowing a loved one is not alone and being cared for by a compassionate companion brings enormous relief to family members. It allows families to focus on enjoying their time together rather than worrying about day-to-day tasks or safety concerns.Encouragement of Healthy HabitsA companion can motivate seniors to stay active, eat well, attend medical appointments, and keep up with social or spiritual activities. This consistent encouragement helps promote physical and mental health over time.Cognitive Stimulation Through games, conversation, reading, and storytelling, companions help keep the mind engaged. This can be especially helpful for seniors living with early signs of dementia, as routine mental stimulation has been shown to slow cognitive decline.