Support Stronger, Safer Aging This Older Americans Month: Urge Congress to Support the SAFE Act
Across the nation, May is recognized as Older Americans Month – a time to celebrate the impact of aging adults on society, while acknowledging how to help this population remain healthy and independent.
Established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, the month-long commemoration serves as an important reminder for all of us to build a more inclusive and age-friendly society. Now organized by the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), Older Americans Month helps support and promote connectedness and independence for aging adults, while combatting ageism and prioritizing the health and wellbeing of older Americans.
With age comes a lifetime of impactful contributions to their communities; however, aging individuals face physical changes like decreased bone density, muscle weakness, and sensory impairments that put them at risk for chronic health conditions, hospitalizations, and mobility issues. Age-related muscle mass loss and balance/gait problems put this demographic at high risk for falls and related injuries. While falls among older individuals are frequent and common, many of the millions of falls that take place every year can be avoided through preventative measures that help build strength, enhance balance, and mitigate environmental risk factors.
APTQI recognizes the critical role that physical and occupational therapists play in the lives of older Americans. Our community is proud to provide preventative care that helps seniors avoid dangerous, costly, and life-threatening falls. To ensure more old Americans can access preventative physical therapy, APTQI supports the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act (H.R.1171), federal legislation that would provide Medicare beneficiaries with a no-cost falls risk assessment by a physical or occupational therapist. The SAFE Act is critical to reducing injuries and helping older Americans live fuller and more active lives.
In celebration of Older Americans Month, support a safer future for older Americans by encouraging your Member of Congress to support the SAFE Act.