Native ELDER Act Enhancing Native Elders' Longevity, Dignity, Empowerment, and Respect Act
The proposed amendments will strengthen the framework under which older Native Americans receive services, not only by improving accessibility but also by allowing for recommendations tailored to their unique cultural and community contexts. It emphasizes the need for tailored in-home assistance and services designed to support independence among older Native Americans. Furthermore, it aims to secure funding set-asides to better meet the needs of this demographic and alleviate barriers they currently face in accessing funded programs.
SB4273, also known as the Native ELDER Act, aims to amend the Older Americans Act of 1965 specifically to enhance the services and support for older Native Americans. The bill is designed to promote the longevity, dignity, empowerment, and respect of older individuals from Native communities. Key provisions include establishing an advisory committee to provide guidance and recommendations regarding the needs and programs relevant to Native American elders and ensuring these considerations are addressed by the appropriate administrative bodies.
While the bill is generally seen as a positive step towards addressing the needs of elderly Native Americans, some points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of the advisory committee, its structure, and the allocation of resources. There may be discussions surrounding its relationship with other agencies and how effectively it can navigate the complexities of tribal governance. Ensuring that the committee truly represents the diverse needs of all Native tribes and communities will be critical to its success.