ALFA Challenges Presidential Candidates

In anticipation of the Florida primaries next Tuesday, ALFA has asked the presidential candidates
to address the needs of America’s aging population—particularly the
future long-term care needs of baby boomers who are nearing retirement
age. ALFA also encourages providers, caregivers, residents, and family
members to write letters to the presidential candidates about long-term
care issues. Download sample letter.

ALFA will hold the first of two Advocacy Days this year on February
27 in Washington, DC, to raise awareness of critical long-term care
issues. For more information or to participate, contact Micah Intermill or Paul Williams.

Seniors make up the highest percentage of registered voters of any
age group in the United States. In the 2004 presidential election, 71
percent of seniors voted—representing nearly one fifth of the total
electorate. In Florida, more than 17 percent of the population is 65
and older. Those who are 85 and older, who are most in need of
long-term care, are the fastest growing segment of the population.

“The large senior population in Florida and their families deserve
to know what the next president will do to meet their long-term care
challenges,” says Richard Grimes, ALFA president and CEO. “This is not
a Republican or a Democratic issue; it is an American issue. Those who
want to lead this country must be prepared to deal with the challenge
of caring for our senior citizens.”