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This file contains materials relating to the Council of State Governments, the Meals - on - Wheels program, Older Americans Month, the American Association of Retired Persons, the National Retired Teachers Association, Grady Means, and Decker Anstrom.
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352356381
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Aging - General (2)
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352356381
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document
title
Aging - General (2)
description
This file contains materials relating to the Council of State Governments, the Meals - on - Wheels program, Older Americans Month, the American Association of Retired Persons, the National Retired Teachers Association, Grady Means, and Decker Anstrom.
citationUrl
collections
Sarah C. Massengale Files (Ford Administration)
Sarah Massengale's Health, Social Security and Welfare Files
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Social security
Legislation
Crime
Presidential messages
Old age
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352356381
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1976-11-30
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11
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1976
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1974-12-01
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12
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1974
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The original documents are located in Box 2, folder "Aging - General (2)" of the Sarah C.
Massengale Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the
United States of America her copyrights in all of her husband's unpublished writings in National
Archives collections. Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official
duties are in the public domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or
organizations are presumed to remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed
in the PDF is subject to a valid copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential
Library.
Some items in this folder were not digitized because it contains copyrighted
materials. Please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library for access to
these materials.
A
The artailed
President shares your concern
for the well being of the elderly as evidensed
act by his long time support of the order american
redo to reflect writer's concern
dose no apm action now
FORD & LIBRARY SERALD
HEALTH.
OF
FINICATION
DEPART ONY DEPARTMENT
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
U.S.A.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20201
APR 28 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HONORABLE SARAH C. MASSENGALE
As requested in your communication of April 5, I am
enclosing a draft reply to a letter addressed to the
President from Margaret Costanza, Vice-Mayor of the
City of Rochester, New York.
Vice-Mayor Costanza expresses concern about the continued
funding for the Nutrition Program for the Elderly under
Title VII of the Older Americans Act. The enclosed draft
explains the status of the funding of this program.
to the Department
Enclosure
FORD LIBRARY & GERALD
The Honorable Margaret Costanza
Vice-Mayor
City of Rochester
105 Powers Building
Rochester, New York 14614
Dear Costanza:
Thank Mayor you for
The President has asked that I respond to your recent letter
tothe Press Pres
the funding of the Title VII Nutrition Program for the Elderly.
A
ts you know, The Congress authorized a $187,500,000 annual operating level for the
Title VII Nutrition Program in the Fiscal Year 1976 Labor/Health,
Education, and Welfare Appropriations Act. Before that time, the
authorized Fiscal Year 1976 operating level was $150,000,000 and funds
appropriated to support this level had been allocated to the States.
On March 29, 1976, the additional $37,500,000 needed to raise the
operating level to $187,500,000 in Fiscal Year 1976 was released to
the States. This allocation provides New York State with an additional
$3,258,331, raising the State's total Fiscal Year 1976 allocation to
$16,291,650.
The President appreciates your comments concerning services for older
persons provided under the Older Americans Act.
Sincerely,
FORD i LIBRARY GERALD
Prepared by: AOA/Anderson/4-14-76/50011
HEALTH.
OF
EDUCATION PATIENT
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
U.S.A.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20201
APR 28 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HONORABLE SARAH C. MASSENGALE
As requested in your communication of April 5, I am
enclosing a draft reply to a letter addressed to the
President from Margaret Costanza, Vice-Mayor of the
City of Rochester, New York.
Vice-Mayor Costanza expresses concern about the continued
funding for the Nutrition Program for the Elderly under
Title VII of the Older Americans Act. The enclosed draft
explains the status of the funding of this program.
/s/Michael J Licata
Executive Secretary
to the Department
Enclosure
FORD i LIBRARY 068410
The Honorable Margaret Costanza
Vice-Mayor
City of Rochester
105 Powers Building
Rochester, New York 14614
Dear Mayor Costanza:
The President has asked that I respond to your recent letter concerning
the funding of the Title VII Nutrition Program for the Elderly.
The Congress authorized a $187,500,000 annual operating level for the
Title VII Nutrition Program in the Fiscal Year 1976 Labor/Health,
Education, and Welfare Appropriations Act. Before that time, the
authorized Fiscal Year 1976 operating level was $150,000,000 and funds
appropriated to support this level had been allocated to the States.
On March 29, 1976, the additional $37,500,000 needed to raise the
operating level to $187,500,000 in Fiscal Year 1976 was released to
the States. This allocation provides New York State with an additional
$3,258,331, raising the State's total Fiscal Year 1976 allocation to
$16,291,650.
The President appreciates your comments concerning services for older
persons provided under the Older Americans Act.
Sincerely,
FORD & LIBRARY
Prepared by: AOA/Anderson/4-14-76/50011
City of Rochester NEW YORK
VICE-MAYOR MARGARET "Midge" COSTANZA
105 Powers Building
Rochester, New York 14614
dat
Phone: (716) 454-5970
March 29, 1976
The Honorable Gerald R. Ford
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
As the Vice-Mayor of Rochester, New York, I am aware of the
need for setting priorities for the funding of all programs. How-
ever, I would like to express my concern for the continued support
of Title VII, Nutrition Program for the Elderly, which is presently
in danger of federal impoundment.
Most important is the recognition that the program is poten-
tially part of a system of long-term preventive health care which
will help avoid the more expensive institutionalization of the
elderly. Cutting the appropriation would result not only in pre-
venting growth of the program, but in reducing those services already
available. The merit of the program has been shown and I hope that
you will consider this before approving the rescission of the in-
creased Title VII allocation.
I strongly suggest that human services, especially to our elderly
should not be ignored.
Thorges Vice-Mayor Margaret Sincerely Costanza yours, Costemy
MC/CR/1st
GLEALO FORD VIBRARY
APR 08 1976
CNV DEPARTMENT ADDITIONAL
HEALTH.
OF
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
U.S.A.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20201
APR 28 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HONORABLE SARAH C. MASSENGALE
As requested in your communication of April 5, I am
enclosing a draft reply to a letter addressed to the
President from Margaret Costanza, Vice-Mayor of the
City of Rochester, New York.
Vice-Mayor Costanza expresses concern about the continued
funding for the Nutrition Program for the Elderly under
Title VII of the Older Americans Act. The enclosed draft
explains the status of the funding of this program.
/s/Michael J Licata
Executive Secretary
to the Department
Enclosure
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
The Honorable Margaret Costanza
Vice-Mayor
City of Rochester
105 Powers Building
Rochester, New York 14614
Dear Mayor Costanza:
The President has asked that I respond to your recent letter concerning
the funding of the Title VII Nutrition Program for the Elderly.
The Congress authorized a $187,500,000 annual operating level for the
Title VII Nutrition Program in the Fiscal Year 1976 Labor/Health,
Education, and Welfare Appropriations Act. Before that time, the
authorized Fiscal Year 1976 operating level was $150,000,000 and funds
appropriated to support this level had been allocated to the States.
On March 29, 1976, the additional $37,500,000 needed to raise the
operating level to $187,500,000 in Fiscal Year 1976 was released to
the States. This allocation provides New York State with an additional
$3,258,331, raising the State's total Fiscal Year 1976 allocation to
$16,291,650.
The President appreciates your comments concerning services for older
persons provided under the Older Americans Act.
Sincerely,
SALD FORD VIBRARY
Prepared by: AOA/Anderson/4-14-76/50011
City of Rochester NEW YORK
VICE-MAYOR MARGARET "Midge" COSTANZA
105 Powers Building
Rochester, New York 14614
chal
Phone: (716) 454-5970
March 29, 1976
The Honorable Gerald R. Ford
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
As the Vice-Mayor of Rochester, New York, I am aware of the
need for setting priorities for the funding of all programs. How-
ever, I would like to express my concern for the continued support
of Title VII, Nutrition Program for the Elderly, which is presently
in danger of federal impoundment.
Most important is the recognition that the program is poten-
tially part of a system of long-term preventive health care which
will help avoid the more expensive institutionalization of the
elderly. Cutting the appropriation would result not only in pre-
venting growth of the program, but in reducing those services already
available. The merit of the program has been shown and I hope that
you will consider this before approving the rescission of the in-
creased Title VII allocation.
I strongly suggest that human services, especially to our elderly
should not be ignored.
Thorges Vice-Mayor Margaret Sincerely Costanza yours, Costany
MC/CR/1st
APR 08 1976
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE
REFERRAL
To:
MICHAEL LICATA
Date: 4/5/76
ACTION REQUESTED
X
Draft reply for:
President's signature.
X
Undersigned's signature.
NOTE
Memorandum for use as enclosure to
reply.
Prompt action is essential.
Direct reply.
If more than 72 hours' delay is encountered,
Furnish information copy.
please telephone the undersigned immediately,
Code 1450.
Suitable acknowledgment or other
appropriate handling.
Furnish copy of reply, if any.
Basic correspondence should be returned when draft
reply, memorandum, or comment is requested.
For your information.
For comment.
REMARKS:
FORD & LIBRARY
Description:
X
Letter:
Telegram: Other:
To: The President
From: Margaret Costanza, Vice Mayor, City of Rochester
Date: 3/29/76
Subject:
Title VII, Nutrition Program for the Elderly
By direction 8cm of the President:
7604070085
HEM-02
Sarah C. Massengale
Assistant Director
Domestic Council
(Copy to remain with correspondence)
APR 08 1976
THE
CITY OF
OF
THE
City of Rochester NEW YORK
VICE-MAYOR MARGARET "Midge" COSTANZA
105 Powers Building
Rochester, New York 14614
Phone: (716) 454-5970
Dencer
diaft
March 29, 1976
The Honorable Gerald R. Ford
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
As the Vice-Mayor of Rochester, New York, I am aware of the
need for setting priorities for the funding of all programs. How-
ever, I would like to express my concern for the continued support
of Title VII, Nutrition Program for the Elderly, which is presently
in danger of federal impoundment.
Most important is the recognition that the program is poten-
tially part of a system of long-term preventive health care which
will help avoid the more expensive institutionalization of the
elderly. Cutting the appropriation would result not only in pre-
venting growth of the program, but in reducing those services already
available. The merit of the program has been shown and I hope that
you will consider this before approving the rescission of the in-
creased Title VII allocation.
I strongly suggest that human services, especially to our elderly
should not be ignored.
Thorget Margaret Vice-Mayor Sincerely Costanza yours, Castage
MC/CR/1st
FORD & LIBRARY 9ERALD
APR 08 1976
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE
REFERRAL
To:
MICHAEL LICATA
Date: 4/5/76
ACTION REQUESTED
X
Draft reply for:
President's signature.
X
Undersigned's signature.
NOTE
Memorandum for use as enclosure to
reply.
Prompt action is essential.
If more than 72 hours' delay is encountered,
Direct reply.
Furnish information copy.
please telephone the undersigned immediately,
Code 1450.
Suitable acknowledgment or other
appropriate handling.
Furnish copy of reply, if any.
Basic correspondence should be returned when draft
reply, memorandum, or comment is requested.
For your information.
For comment.
REMARKS:
FORD i LIBRARY 076838
Description:
X
Letter:
Telegram: Other:
To: The President
From: Margaret Costanza, Vice Mayor, City of Rochester
Date: 3/29/76
Subject: Title VII, Nutrition Program for the Elderly
By direction of the President:
8CM
Sarah C. Massengale
Assistant Director
Domestic Council
(White House File Copy)
THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE
REFERRAL
To:
MICHAEL LICATA
Date: 4/5/76
ACTION REQUESTED
X
Draft reply for:
President's signature.
X
Undersigned's signature.
NOTE
Memorandum for use as enclosure to
reply.
Prompt action is essential.
Direct reply.
If more than 72 hours' delay is encountered,
Furnish information copy.
please telephone the undersigned immediately,
Code 1450.
Suitable acknowledgment or other
appropriate handling.
Furnish copy of reply, if any.
Basic correspondence should be returned when draft
reply, memorandum, or comment is requested.
For your information.
For comment.
REMARKS:
Description:
X
Letter:
Telegram: Other:
To: The President
From: Margaret Costanza, Vice Mayor, City of Rochester
Date: 3/29/76
Subject: Title VII, Nutrition Program for the Elderly
By direction 6CM of the President:
Sarah C. Massengale
Assistant Director
Domestic Council
(White House Suspense Copy)
CITY
THE
OF
OF
PROCHESTER
City of Rochester NEW YORK
THE
VICE-MAYOR MARGARET "Midge" COSTANZA
105 Powers Building
Rochester, New York 14614
draft
Phone: (716) 454-5970
March 29, 1976
The Honorable Gerald R. Ford
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
As the Vice-Mayor of Rochester, New York, I am aware of the
need for setting priorities for the funding of all programs. How-
ever, I would like to express my concern for the continued support
of Title VII, Nutrition Program for the Elderly, which is presently
in danger of federal impoundment.
Most important is the recognition that the program is poten-
tially part of a system of long-term preventive health care which
will help avoid the more expensive institutionalization of the
elderly. Cutting the appropriation would result not only in pre-
venting growth of the program, but in reducing those services already
available. The merit of the program has been shown and I hope that
you will consider this before approving the rescission of the in-
creased Title VII allocation.
I strongly suggest that human services, especially to our elderly,
should not be ignored.
Margaret Vice-Mayor Sincerely Costanza yours,
MC/CR/1st
TONDO is LIBRARY GERALD
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Vice-Mayor Margaret "Midge" Costanza
ROCHES
TER
U.S POSTAGE
105 Powers Building
MAR31'76
Rochester, New York 14614
13
N.Y
P.B. 643229
METER
The Honorable Gerald R. Ford
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20500
A8
G5
88
file
DEPART MEDICALE any DEPARTMENT ATTON INFORMATION
HEALTH.
EDUC
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
USA
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20201
Office of Human Development
Administration on Aging
For Your Attention:
Enclosed are three basic documents pertaining to this year's
celebration of Older American's Month. These include:
A copy of remarks by President Gerald R. Ford
in White House ceremonies proclaiming May as
Older Americans Month;
A copy of the Presidential Proclamation;
A copy of the Federal Council on the
Aging Bicentennial Charter for Older
Americans.
We hope these will be of both use and interest to you in
planning activities or in recognizing the importance of
Older Americans during this Bicentennial year.
Sincerely
Ramon Geremia
Acting Chief
Public Information Division
FORD LIBRARY is
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 5, 1976
OFFICE OF THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT
UPON SIGNING THE PROCLAMATION FOR
OLDER AMERICANS MONTH - 1976
THE ROSE GARDEN
3:06 P.M. EST
to A.
Secretary Mathews and distinguished guests:
It is especially fitting this year that we set
A.
aside a period to honor our older citizens. Their insight
and experience, their wisdom and their courage has contributed
no A
beyond measure to the developments of our 200-year-old Nation.
We must make it possible for older Americans to continue
their involvement in our national life.
to
One of the best ways we can draw upon their
strengths and skills is in the job and volunteer markets.
Too often older and even middle-aged Americans are the
victims of myths and prejudices regarding their capabilities.
Americans must repudiate these myths and prejudices, as we
have repudiated others, and assure our older Americans the
chance to prove that time has only enhanced their demonstrated
abilities.
It is important that our Nation make every effort
to recognize the worth and the dignity of our older citizens.
To this end, the Federal Council on Aging has prepared a
Bicentennial charter for our older Americans. This charter
sets forth principles to guide us in evaluating our Nation's
response to the problems facing older persons and appreciating
the response to the problems now confronting our Nation.
THE WHITE HOUSE
OLDER AMERICANS MONTH, 1976
- 2 -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
One of these principles is the right to an adequate
standard of living in retirement. Let me reaffirm that older
A PROCLAMATION
Americans have earned the right to live securely, comfortably
and independently.
Among our Nation's most precious natural resources are the collective
wisdom, experience and abilities of our older citizens.
As I said before, the value of our Social Security
system is beyond question. I will do all that I can to insure
In recent years we have become more aware of the important contributions
the integrity of the trust fund so that future generations
older Americans have made in the past and in the tremendous potential they
of retirees may continue to rely on it.
hold for the future. We are increasing our efforts to ensure that they
have the opportunity for independent living through security of income,
With these thoughts and commitments in mind, I am
maintenance of health and continued useful involvement in the life of our
happy today to join in this annual proclamation designating
Nation.
an Older Americans Month. I urge all organizations concerned
with employment and volunteer services to observe this month
America's older citizens have earned the gratitude and respect of our
with ceremonies, activities and programs designed to increase
society, as well as our recognition of their worth and dignity. In this
opportunities for older persons, and I urge that such programs
spirit, the Federal Council on Aging has prepared the Bicentennial Charter
include public forums for discussion of the Bicentennial
for Older Americans expressing their rights and obligations.
charter for older Americans.
The job market and the area of volunteer services provide some of the
I ask all Americans to join me in reflecting upon
best opportunities to draw on the strengths and talents of older Americans.
the achievements and the needs of our older citizens.
Unfortunately, older, and even middle-aged workers, are too often the
victims of myth and prejudice regarding their capabilities. Our society
END
(AT
3:10
P.M.
EST)
needs the know-how, experience, judgment and eagerness to serve that these
citizens bring to the job.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GERALD R. FORD, President of the United States of
America, do hereby designate the month of May, 1976, as Older Americans
Month.
I urge all State and Area Agencies on Aging and other private and
public organizations that are related to the field of aging to observe this
month by arranging public forums where the Bicentennial Charter for Older
Americans will be discussed and recommendations developed for implementation.
I urge all organizations concerned with employment to observe this month
with ceremonies and programs designed to increase employment opportunities
for older workers.
I urge all organizations engaged in the delivery of services to persons
in need to observe this month by increased emphasis on efforts to recruit,
train and place older volunteers.
And I urge all Americans to observe this month by focusing on the achieve-
ments of older persons and supporting programs to make the last days of life
the best days for increasing numbers of our older Americans.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of April
in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred seventy-six and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundredth.
FORD
GERALD R. FORD
GERALD
LIBRARY
THE FEDERAL COUNCIL ON THE AGING
older persons for the good of self and community, Compensation should
be based on the prevailing wage scales of the community for comparable
BICENTENNIAL CHARTER FOR OLDER AMERICANS
work.
Two hundred years ago, a new nation was founded based on the self-evident
IV.
THE RIGHT TO AN OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE WIDEST RANGE OF
truths that all men - and women are created equal and that they are endowed
MEANINGFUL CIVIC, EDUCATIONAL, RECREATIONAL AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES.
by their Creator with certain inalienable rights. A Constitution was set
forth for governance of these new United States of America with the goal of
The varying interests and needs of older Americans require programs
forming a more perfect union, establishing justice, insuring domestic tran-
and activities sensitive to their rich and diverse heritage. There
quillity, providing for the common defense, promoting the general welfare,
should be opportunities for involvement with persons of all ages in
and securing the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity.
programs which are affordable and accessible.
In the two hundredth year of this nation's existence, it is good and well
V. THE RIGHT TO SUITABLE HOUSING.
that we call special attention to a group of citizens which literally did
not exist at the time of our Revolution. The approximate life span in 1776
The widest choices of living arrangements should be available, designed
was 32 years. In 1976, it is projected to be 71 years and we now have a
and located with reference to special needs at costs which older per-
virtual "generation" of older Americans whose roles, contributions, rights
sons can afford.
and responsibilities need to be given particular attention at this time in
our history.
VI.
THE RIGHT TO THE BEST LEVEL OF PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH
SERVICES NEEDED.
Americans of all ages have the ultimate responsibility to be or become
self-reliant, to care for their families, to aid their neighbors and to
Such services should include the latest knowledge and techniques
plan prudently for their old age. Older persons have the responsibility to
science can make available without regard to economic status.
make available to the community the benefits of their experience and know-
ledge. Society-be it through the institutions of the public or the private
VII.
THE RIGHT TO READY ACCESS TO EFFECTIVE SOCIAL SERVICES.
sector-has the responsibility to assist citizens to be prepared for their
later years as well as to assist directly so many of the very old who for
These services should enhance independence and well-being, yet provide
one reason or another cannot cope with the burden of increasing physical,
protection and care as needed.
mental, social and environmental debilities.
VIII.
THE RIGHT TO APPROPRIATE INSTITUTIONAL CARE WHEN REQUIRED.
There follow certain basic human rights for older Americans based on the
"laws of nature and of nature's God" as set forth in the founding documents
Care should provide full restorative services in a safe environment.
of this nation some two hundred years ago.
This care should also promote- and protect the dignity and rights of
the individual along with family and community ties.
I. THE RIGHT TO FREEDOM, INDEPENDENCE AND THE FREE EXERCISE
OF INDIVIDUAL INITIATIVE.
IX.
THE RIGHT TO A LIFE AND DEATH WITH DIGNITY.
This should encompass not only opportunities and resources for personal
Regardless of age, society must assure individual citizens of the pro-
planning and managing one's life style but support systems for maximum
tection of their constitutional rights and opportunities for self respect,
growth and contributions by older persons to their community.
respect and acceptance from others, a sense of enrichment and contribu-
tion, and freedom from dependency. Dignity in dying includes the right
II. THE RIGHT TO AN INCOME IN RETIREMENT WHICH WOULD PROVIDE AN
of the individual to permit or deny the use of extraordinary life sup-
ADEQUATE STANDARD OF LIVING.
port systems.
Such income must be sufficiently adequate to assure maintenance of mental
and physical activities which delay deterioration and maximize individual
We pledge the resources of this nation to the ensuring of these rights
potential for self-help and support. This right should be assured re-
for all older Americans regardless of race, color, creed, age, sex or
gardless of employment capability.
national origin, with the caution that the complexities of our society
be monitored to assure that the fulfillment of one right, does not
nullify the benefits received as the result of another entitlement. We
III. THE RIGHT TO AN OPPORTUNITY FOR EMPLOYMENT FREE FROM DISCRIMINATORY
further dedicate the technology and human skill of this nation so that
PRACTICES BECAUSE OF AGE.
later life will be marked in liberty with the realization of the pursuit
of happiness.
Such employment when desired should not exploit individuals because of
age and should permit utilization of talents, skills and experience of
January, 1976
DEPARTMENT OF
HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
POSTAGE AND FEES PAID
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20201
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF H.E.W.
OFFICIAL BUSINESS
391
U.S.MAIL
PENALTY FOR PRIVATE USE, $300
FIRST CLASS
Ms. Sarah Messengale OSCP-3
Domestic Council Staff
Room 220, $ OB
17th & Penu. Ave, N.W.
Washington, D.C.
No. 258
aging April 1976
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
President Ford Delivers
FORD LIBRARY
3 President Ford Delivers Message on the Nation's
Elderly to Congress
Message on the Nation's
4 Senate Leaders Voice Opposition to President's Pro-
posals in Aging Message
Elderly to Congress
5 Elderly More Prone to Accidental Death Reports
National Safety Council
6 Part I: Physical Fitness and Health-Highlights of
the Senate Committee on Aging Hearing
P
10 First School of Aging Dedicated at University of
resident Ford called for major
hand, it will protect future genera-
posed limiting increases in Medicare
Southern California
changes in both Social Security
tions against unnecessary costs and
payments in 1977 and 1978 to 7%
and Medicare that would have a
excessive tax increases."
a day for hospital and 4% for
11 When You're Young at Heart
profound effect on the nation's
physician services.
14 Workshops Spark Fitness Programs
elderly in a Feb. 9 message to
Offers Program for Catastrophic
To encourage the economical use
Congress.
Health Care
of hospital and medical services
15 "Over Sixties" Keep Fit at Waxter Center
The President, following up on
While praising the Medicare sys-
under Medicare, the President also
16 Los Angeles County Has Senior Prom Program for
reforms suggested in his Jan. 19
tem for providing the elderly with
recommended that patients pay
State of the Union message, said
Elderly
an opportunity to obtain quality
10% of hospital and nursing home
"the particular vulnerability of the
health care, the President said that
charges after the first day and that
17 "Fitness Over Sixty: Swedish Style"
aged to the burdens of inflation re-
it suffered from certain weaknesses.
the medical services deductible be
23 Conference Calendar
quires that specific improvements
"Three aspects of the current pro-
increased from $60 to $77 annually.
be made" in the two major pro-
gram concern me," the President
"The savings from placing a limit
25 News of State and Area Agencies
grams.
said, "its failure to provide our
on increases in Medicare payment
28 News of Federal Agencies
elderly with protection against catas-
rates and some of the revenue from
President Suggests Major Changes
trophic illness costs, the serious
increased cost sharing will be used
29 Aging Around the World
in Social Security
effects that health care cost infla-
to finance the catastrophic illness
30 Publications
"We must begin by insuring that
tion is having on the Medicare pro-
program," the President concluded.
the Social Security system is beyond
gram, and lack of incentives to
President Ford also surveyed re-
challenge," the President continued.
encourage efficient and economical
forms made in response to the rec-
"My 1977 budget request includes
use of hospital and medical serv-
ommendations of the 1971 White
a full cost of living increase to be
ices."
House Conference on Aging.
effective with checks received in
To correct these deficiencies, the
July 1976.
President proposed "extending
"A Supplemental Security Income
"Second, to insure the financial
Medicare benefits by providing
program was enacted. Social Secur-
coverage for unlimited days of
ity benefits have been increased in
integrity of the Social Security trust
accord with increases in the cost of
funds, I am proposing legislation to
hospital and skilled nursing facility
care for beneficiaries" and "to limit
living. The Social Security retire-
increase payroll taxes by three-tenths
of one percent each for employees
the out-of-pocket expenses of bene-
ment test was liberalized. Many
and employers.
ficiaries, for covered services, to
inequities in payments to women
have been eliminated. The 35 mil-
"Third," the President said, "The
$500 for physician and other non-
current formula which determines
institutional medical services."
lion workers who have earned rights
COVER
UPI Photo
benefits for workers who retire in
"This will mean that each year
to private pension plans now have
over a billion dollars of benefit
increased protection," he said.
Commissioner on Aging Arthur S. Flemming is shown with President
the future does not properly reflect
Ford, following the signing of the President's Message on Improving
wage and price fluctuations.
payments will be targeted for handl-
Programs for the Elderly. In the background are HEW Secretary David
"The change I am proposing will
ing the financial burden of prolonged
Praise for Older Americans Act
Mathews (L) and Commissioner of Social Security James B. Cardwell.
not affect cost of living increases in
illness," he said.
President Ford concluded his
Story on p. 3
benefits after retirement, and will
To help slow inflation in health
message with praise for the Older
in no way alter the benefit levels
care and finance catastrophic health
Americans Act. He said that the
of current recipients. On the other
care coverage, the President pro-
National Network on Aging pro-
April 1976
3
stay is: 20.6 days due to accidents;
vides a solid basis for action, and
munity level," he said. "I join in
The President also discussed
13.8 days due to cardiovascular dis-
noted that there are now 56 State
the call for hard and creative work
AoA's nursing home ombudsman
eases; 17.2 days due to infectious
and 489 area agencies on aging and
at all levels-Federal, State, and
program, saying that it will help to
Elderly More Prone To
and parasitic diseases; 15.0 days
700 nutrition projects, providing
area in order to achieve this objec-
resolve individual complaints and
due to diseases of the respiratory
300,000 meals daily.
tive.
facilitate citizen involvement in the
This network, the President
Accidental Death Reports
system; 16.8 days due to malignant
"Toward this end the Administra-
enforcement of laws designed to
neoplasms (cancer); and 14.4 days
pointed out, provides the elderly an
tion on Aging and a number of
improve the health, safety, and
due to miscellaneous causes.
opportunity to voice their opinions
Federal Departments and agencies
regarding needed services through
have signed agreements which help
quality of care in these facilities.
National Safety Council
the advisory councils and public
to make available to older persons
President Ford concluded by say-
hearings on the annual State and
a fair share of the Federal funds
ing, "I believe that the Social Secur-
area plans.
ity and Medicare improvements I
Ageing International
available in such areas as housing,
According to National Safety
More older persons perish in fires,
"The principal goal of this Na-
transportation, social services, law
am proposing, when combined with
Council statistics, the elderly con-
the Council observes, because they
Goes on Subscription
tional Network on Aging is to bring
enforcement, adult education and
the action programs under the Older
stitute the most vulnerable age
are unable to escape even after
Basis With Spring Issue
into being coordinated comprehen-
manpower resources which can en-
Americans Act, will insure a meas-
group in the United States in the
sufficient warning, especially those
sive systems for the provision of
able older persons to continue to
ure of progress for the elderly and
category of accidental injury.
over 75.
Effective with the spring issue,
service to the elderly at the com-
live in their own homes."
thus provide real hope for us all."
About 25,000 persons 65 and
According to the Council, except
Ageing International, quarterly pub-
older die annually as a result of
for the 0-4 age bracket, the elderly
lication of the International Federa-
accidental injuries. An additional
suffer the highest suffocation death
tion on Ageing will shift from dis-
Senate Leaders Voice Opposition to
800,000 in this age group suffer
rate, with ingested-object suffocation
tribution on a courtesy basis to
disabling injuries of at least one
being the greatest. One suspected
subscription status.
President's Proposals in Aging Message
day's duration.
factor is a diminishing of the "swal-
Cost to U.S. and Canadian resi-
The death rate from accidents
lowing reflex" which comes with age.
dents will be $5 a year and $6 to
among persons 65 and over is 116
Poisoning by solids, liquids, gases,
other countries.
T
deaths per 100,000 population
and vapors in the 65 and older age
hirty-two Senators have joined
benefit increases for today's workers
Ageing International is published
payment rates in 1977 and 1978 to
within the age group. The average
group is not as prevalent as in the
in English, French, and German. Its
Sen. Frank Church in opposing
7 percent for hospitals and 4 per-
are coupled with increases for re-
for all ages is 49.7. The rate for
15-64 age group, yet the mortality
goal is providing practitioners with
legislation to increase out-of-pocket
cent for physician services. The
tired workers, producing instability
those 65 and over is two to almost
rate from poisoning by gases and
payments by Medicare beneficiaries
effect of these two proposals is to
in the existing wage replacement
cross-cultural information on pro-
three times greater than the rate of
vapors for persons over 75 is the
gram innovations, research results
by signing S. Con. Res. 86. Rep.
reduce medicare outlays by $900
ratios."
any group over 15 years of age and
highest of any group. This is princi-
Charles Brademas has introduced a
million in fiscal 1977.
and social gerontology having prac-
Senator Church ended by saying,
about three to six times greater than
pally caused by carbon monoxide,
tical applications, developments in
companion measure (H. Con. Res.
"Since medicare pays 80 percent
"I want to reaffirm that the Com-
the rates for children under five and
presumably from old, faulty heating
aging policy within international and
534) in the House.
of reasonable charges after the de-
mittee on Aging stands ready, will-
those five to 14 years old.
equipment.
regional organizations such as the
Sen. Church, Chairman of the
ductible is met, patients may be
ing, and able to work with and co-
The National Safety Council notes
The Council concludes that from
U.N., and activities by voluntary
Senate Special Committee on Aging,
forced to pay more for physician
operate with the administration in
that although persons over 65 com-
available information, it appears
agencies and the elderly.
said, "I fully support some type of
services," he concluded.
improving our Nation's overall poli-
prise only about 10% of the total
elderly people drown more fre-
Further information is available
overall limitation on hospital and
cies for Older Americans."
population, they account for 24%
quently from activities associated
from the Editor, International Fed-
physician charges for medicare bene-
Misgivings About Social Security
of all accidental deaths, 29% of
with water than from actual swim-
ficiaries. I also favor unlimited hos-
Senate Finance Committee Action
eration on Ageing, 1909 K St.,
Payroll Tax Increase
hospital days due to injury, and
ming. Males greatly out-number
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20049.
pital and skilled nursing facility pro-
Senator Church also voiced con-
In a separate action the Senate
16% of all hospitalized accident
females in this category.
tection for the aged and disabled.
cern about President Ford's proposal
Finance Committee tentatively de-
patients.
Of fatal accidental injuries to
"But," he continued, "the benefits
cided against the President's pro-
The Council reports that in 1974
persons over 65: 43% occur in
from these proposals are greatly
to meet the short-term financing
posal to raise the elderly's share
11,700 persons 65 and older died
private homes; 22% in motor ve-
outdistanced by the 'cost sharing'
problem relating to the social secu-
hicle accidents (including pedes-
New Health Care Program
arrangements which would substan-
rity tax.
of Medicare costs but supported
in falls, 5,600 in motor vehicle ac-
limiting the amount paid for catas-
cidents, and 1,900 in fires or from
trian); 31% in public places (in-
The Long Island University/
tially increase the elderly's out-of-
"He calls for a 0.3 percent in-
trophic illness care.
burns. A total of 700 persons 65
cluding institutions); and 4% at
Brooklyn Center has started a pro-
pocket payments. The new 10-per-
crease in the social security contri-
The Committee also opposed a
and over perished from inhalation
work.
gram leading to a Bachelor of Sci-
cent coinsurance charge for Part A
bution rate, from 5.85 to 6.15 per-
presidential proposal limiting the
or ingestion of food and objects
The severity of the accident prob-
ence degree in Long-Term Care Ad-
service would reduce medicare ben-
cent in 1977. This appears to be the
efits by more than $1.7 million.
amount hospitals and doctors could
causing suffocation; 570 from poi-
lem among the elderly is further
ministration.
most regressive approach to provide
"Nearly 5.9 million medicare ben-
raise their fees each year and still
soning by solids, liquids, gases, and
dramatized by the fact that those
The program is accredited by the
additional revenue for the social
be reimbursed under Medicare.
vapors; and 500 from drowning.
over 65 suffering accidental injuries
eficiaries" the Senator said, "are
New York State Education Depart-
security trust funds," he said. "And
expected to be hospitalized in fiscal
The informal vote taken Feb. 26
Data indicate that older people
are confined an average of 13.7
ment and approved by the New
it would fall heavily upon low-
was not on actual legislation. The
are the victims of falls precipitated
days, compared with 7.6 days in the
York State Department of Health.
1977. Only 150,000-or less than 3
income wage earners.'
by failing eyesight, diminished mus-
45 to 64 year age group and 6.2
percent-would benefit from the ad-
committee was preparing recom-
The course of study will prepare
The Senator added that an in-
mendations for the Senate Budget
cular strength and coordination, and
days for all ages. Among persons
the student to qualify for the New
ministration's proposals."
crease in the contribution rate could
a degenerative condition of the
over 65 hospitalized for accidental
Senator Church noted that some
Committee which will hear propo-
intensify unemployment, since it
sals from all Senate committees
bones called osteoporosis. Often
injury, the average stay is 20.6 days
York State Nursing Home license
14.2 million persons are expected
may discourage employers from
broken bones lead to terminal com-
compared to an average of 10.9 days
and for executive positions in
to receive reimburseable services
before drawing up an overall tax
hiring workers because their total
plications.
for all ages.
Health Care Management. The lat-
under Part B in FY 1977. But only
and spending resolution for the
payroll costs would be boosted.
In the classification of motor
A comparison of the average days
ter includes opportunities in skilled
1.8 million, or one in seven, would
coming fiscal year.
vehicle accidents, the Council asserts
of hospitalization required by per-
nursing homes, health related facili-
pay less under the administration's
He added that he was pleased
In earlier action, the Finance
that the elderly fall prey to more
sons over 65 further indicates that
ties, homes for the aged, and custo-
health care plan.
with the President's plans for de-
Committee also voted tentatively not
severe pedestrian-vehicle accidents
the stay due to accidents is longer
dial institutions in the voluntary,
"President Ford also proposes to
coupling the social security system.
to raise the social security tax Jan.
than do the younger groups.
than for most diseases. The average
proprietary, and government sectors.
limit increases in medicare daily
"The net impact," he said "is that
1, as proposed by the President.
April 1976
5
4
AGING
shaping our lives into the kind of
at 6, 18, and 42 weeks. The most
regimen that would enhance both
significant findings were related to
the character and length of life.
oxygen transport capacity. Oxygen
Poor diets, overeating, smoking,
pulse and lung ventilation at near
physical inactivity, excessive drink-
maximal workloads improved by
ing, the overuse and misuse of drugs,
29.4 and 35.2 percent respectively.
"Physical fitness really
accidents, stress and life-endanger-
Vital capacity improved by 19.6 per-
is a state of well being that
ing life styles are all targets of pre-
cent. Significant improvement was
breeds confidence, poise,
ventive medicine. One can see inter-
also found in the percentage of body
relations between these elements
fat, physical work capacity and both
posture, and an exhilarating
and many physical conditions. A
systolic and diastolic blood pres-
feeling of buoyancy."
graphic example is found in the work
sure. Controls did not improve on
being done on the influence of per-
any of the above measures.
sonality and life styles on heart
A group of seven men was placed
attacks.
in a modified exercise program be-
Substantial evidence supports the
cause of various cardiovascular
value of exercise in maintaining
problems. This group exercised in
health, improved circulation and
the same manner except that they
respiration, better sleep and dimin-
substituted a progressive walking
ished stress. Exercise reduces the
program for the jogging and were
Photos for this article courtesy of the National Association for Human Development.
risk of heart attack and enhances
restricted to a maximum heart rate
survival following an attack. Swim-
of 120 instead of 145 which was
Physical Fitness and Health-Highlights of
ming, walking, running and bicy-
"Swimming, walking, running and
obtained with the normal group.
cling are especially good and in-
bicycling are especially good and
This group was exercised for 6
expensive forms of exercise, since
inexpensive forms of exercise."
weeks, at which time their improve-
the Senate Subcommittee on Aging Hearing
they actively strengthen the circula-
ment showed a similar pattern to
tory and respiratory systems.
also to suggest that isometric, static
that of the harder working normal
Exercise must be planned on a
or overly sustained exercises may
subjects at 6 weeks.
By Richard Keelor, Ph.D.
routine daily basis. One simply
elevate blood pressure to the point
In a subsequent study, 17 older
Director of Program Development
must take time for it. In addition,
of provoking a heart attack.
President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
women (age 52-79) from the same
advantage must be taken of spon-
As a physician, psychiatrist and
community, participated in a vigor-
taneous opportunities for physical
gerontologist, I urge continued Fed-
ous 3 month exercise program and
eral efforts in this vital aspect of the
On
activities. Emptying the trash, mow-
again physical fitness was signifi-
n
ing the lawn and walking upstairs
health care of older Americans—
April 22nd of last year, the
guard against this by beginning
creases the confidence and feeling
cantly improved although the
Senate Subcommittee on Aging
gently and adding new increments
of well-being for the individual and
instead of taking the elevator should
physical fitness.
women did not show the large im-
heard testimonies on physical fitness
of exercise only when enough prog-
follow a redefinition of what is
provement in the respiratory sys-
staves off dependency by preventing
and its implications for older Ameri-
ress has been made to indicate that
or softening the shaky hand and
called drudgery and what is exer-
Elderly Can Improve Their
t:m shown by the men (Adams and
cans from representatives of asso-
the addition is safe. We sometimes
cise. So-called labor-and time-sav-
Physical Fitness
deVries, 1973).
tottering gait syndrome.
ciations, Federal agencies, and the
have to point out that the only haz-
ing devices may reduce physical
Herbert A. deVries, Ph.D., Pro-
On the basis of a series of studies
The haunting question which was
fields of cardiology, psychiatry,
ard-free area in this world is the
fitness. Gardening is a fine hobby
fessor of Physical Education, Direc-
with this older subject population
there from the start-if all this
geriatrics, and exercise physiology.
graveyard. If you want to play the
as well as an attraction that gives
tor, Exercise Physiology Laboratory,
over a period of five years during
Due to the length of testimony
game of life, you must accept some
works to a degree in the later years,
pleasure to others. It saves money
Andrus Gerontology Center, Uni-
which not a single untoward inci-
and frequent duplications of con-
risk-a broken leg may be a small
when should we really start the
to garden, cut the grass, pull weeds,
versity of Southern California:
dent occurred we concluded: 1) the
price for the chance to make a
regime? The obvious answer is at
do household chores. Purchase of a
tent, no attempt will be made to cite
Since very little experimental evi-
exercise regimen as developed
the entire testimony in this article.
touchdown.
day one. This type of body care
handyman guide for work around
dence existed regarding the physical
(deVries, 1974) was both safe and
Instead, we will provide a sample
After the daily formal exercise
should be part of everyone's life
the house can lead to exercise and
conditioning effects upon older men
effective for normal older men and
of the views and subjects discussed.
program has been mastered and put
style for the simple reason that you
save repair costs too.
and women (defined as 50 and
women, 2) the trainability of older
Frederick C. Swartz, M.D., Chair-
into force we proceed to institute
feel better, you do more, you enjoy
Medical monitoring of exercise
over) it was decided to develop a
men and women with respect to
man of the Committee on Aging of
a more strenuous program two or
life more and in the later years you
is important in later life. Regular
mobile exercise physiology labora-
physical work capacity is not sig-
the Council on Medical Services of
three times weekly. This may be
will be independent.
physical exams and discussions of
tory at the Andrus Gerontology
nificantly different from that in
the American Medical Association:
typified by a walk for exercise or
Robert N. Butler, M.D., Re-
appropriate exercise with a doctor
Center which could be taken to a
youth in a relative sense; i.e. the
Physical fitness really implies
bike riding on a stationary bike.
search Psychiatrist and Gerontolog-
can lessen the chance of overdoing
retirement community for further
percentage gains are similar, 3) the
more than the ability to do a day's
Improved speed, skill, strength,
ist, author and lecturer:
or miscalculating one's abilities.
study. This work was supported by
training gains do not seem to de-
work without running out of gas or
stamina, circulation and range of
Treadmill electrocardiac surveillance
the Administration on Aging.
pend upon having trained vigorously
surviving the emergency of snow
motion should be the objective of
Seneca, the Roman philosopher,
(including testing under stress) is
In the first experiment, 112 older
in youth.
shoveling or grass cutting. It is also
all physical fitness programs.
said, "Man does not die, he kills
very valuable. Education about
males aged 52-87 (mean age =
Other health benefits which have
a state of physical well-being that
One of the most important items
himself." There is no question but
common dangers is another imper-
69.5) volunteered for participation
been reported to accrue as the result
breeds confidence, poise, posture,
that contributes to good body func-
that much of our behavior over
ative. For example, in 1970 the
in a vigorous exercise training re-
of physical conditioning of the older
physical ability and an exhilarating
tion is good posture. We insist on
which we can exercise some degree
Federal Trade Commission warned
gime (deVries 1970). They exer-
organism include: improved muscle
feeling of buoyancy.
oldsters sitting up straight in their
of control is influential both in the
the elderly and infirm to be careful
cised under our supervision at calis-
strength (Kuta, Pariskova, Dycka,
Much fear is often expressed by
chair, both feet on the floor and
quality and length of our lives. Yet
about sauna and steam baths be-
thenics, jogging and stretching at
1970), and increased joint mobility
the patient and his relatives of the
walking tall.
we do not take personal responsi-
cause of adverse effects of rising
each workout for approximately one
(Chapman, deVries, Swezey, 1972),
possibility of injury or heart attack
We are convinced that participa-
bility either for ourselves individ-
body temperature, blood pressure
hour, three times per week. The
with respect to the musculo-skeletal
from an exercise program. We
tion in this type of a program in-
ually or collectively as a society by
and pulse rates. There is evidence
subjects were pretested and retested
system; increased total blood vol-
6
AGING
April 1976
7
Exercise Can Prevent
Impaired mobility in middle-aged
Premature Aging
and older people, often the result
cal activity which older people can
mentary school. These should con-
of poor physical fitness, leads to
perform.
tinue throughout the whole school
Raymond Harris, M.D., Presi-
dent of the Center for the Study of
social isolation, personality and
Physical activity also opens up
and academic life. Business and in-
emotional deterioration and poor
new challenging interests, goals,
dustry should set aside time for
Aging, Clinical Associate Professor
mental health. Physically inactive
skills, experiences, and abilities. It
exercise breaks rather than for
of Medicine, Albany Medical Col-
lege, Chief of Cardiology, Sub-
people past 50 perceive their bodies
increases the independence of older
coffee breaks. Reconditioning cen-
Department of Cardiovascular
to be broader and heavier than they
people. Physical activity performed
ters should be established as has
really are and they experience
in groups also permits an experience
been done abroad for many years—
Medicine, St. Peter's Hospital and
bodily activities as increasingly
which changes people's attitudes and
where people who are getting "de-
Former Vice President of the
behavior and improves their inter-
conditioned' and prone to one or
Gerontological Society:
strenuous. Kinesthetic pleasures
As a physician actively engaged
which young people derive from
personal relationships.
more of the chronic degenerative
motor action are steadily reduced
Physical exercise programs that
diseases have an opportunity to
in the treatment and care of medi-
cal problems of older Americans,
in habitually sedentary elderly sub-
encourage older Americans to be
rest, get reconditioned and return
jects who eventually become reluc-
more active, independent and mo-
with healthier bodies and a more
I am firmly convinced that regular
tant to move at all. Muscular de-
bile, provide economic benefits by
placid frame of mind.
physical exercise can play a major
role in preventing the onset of pre-
generation, distinct physiological
reducing medical problems and hos-
This need is becoming more
mature aging. I find that more than
changes and distortion of the body
pital costs.
critical as an increasing percentage
image resulting from restriction of
There is need, in my opinion, for
half of the patients who consult me
of the population is in the over 60
physical exercise lead to greater
the expenditure of federal funds for
complain of symptoms and other
age group. There must be education
"Health benefits which have been
non-profit programs in physical ex-
difficulties which they mistakenly
clumsiness, increased fear of physi-
for these citizens to understand the
reported to accrue as the result of
attribute to the aging process. How-
cal activity and the development of
ercise and activity to motivate nor-
"Substantial evidence supports the value
need for regular physical activity
of exercise in maintaining health,
physical conditioning include increased
ever, as a geriatric cardiologist re-
faulty feedback mechanisms be-
mal middle-age and older Ameri-
in their lives and motivation for
improved circulation, better sleep and
joint mobility."
tween movement and body image.
cans to begin programs which pay
them to want to be active. Of
diminished stress."
searcher and physician, I find that
Inactive older people develop in-
attention to their physical, emo-
course, the vital need is the avail-
ume (Oscai, Williams, Hertig, 1968,
the majority of their problems are
creased internal tensions and pent-
tional and social needs. Further-
ability of programs in which they
possible, involve from thirty minutes
Benestad, 1965) and a regression
the result of a chronic state of mus-
up aggressions.
more, funds are necessary to provide
can participate. These opportunities
to an hour daily. Once an optimum
of EKG abnormalities (Barry et al,
cular and cardiovascular unfitness.
continuing education for physical
stage has been reached, fitness can
Hypertension, hardening of the
Physical activity is particularly
must be convenient for them and
1966), with respect to the cardio-
vascular system. Also reported is a
arteries and other circulatory dis-
important in preventing the effects
educators and other professionals
must be conducted by exercise lead-
be maintained by a lower degree of
turbances are evident in patients
of hypokinetic disease, often mis-
concerned with exercise in aging
ers with adequate training and with
activity, possibly as little as sixty
retarding effect on the typical age-
takenly attributed to aging rather
Americans. They need to be more
with a long-standing history of
an understanding of the older
minutes a week. Any form of exer-
wise regression of lung function
than the true cause-lack of physi-
aware of the needs of normal older
citizen.
cise or sport sufficiently vigorous to
(Durusoy, Ozgonul, 1971) and aero-
physical inactivity and emotional
stress and tensions that could have
cal activity. As people age and be-
Americans and how to conduct pro-
fulfill the conditions outlined above
Merritt H. Stiles, M.D., Internist,
bic capacity (Dehn, Bruce, 1972).
come physically inactive and unfit,
grams to keep aging Americans in
should prove satisfactory. It must
been relieved by regular physical
Cardiologist, Born Sept. 10, 1899,
It is of interest that a general feel-
their flexor muscles shorten and
good physical fitness and normal
be remembered, however, that a
activity.
has published over 50 articles and
ing of "well being" is often reported
antigravity muscles supporting the
mental health. There is also a need
person who has gotten soft from
as one of the results of physical con-
Properly taught and prescribed
for the accumulation of scientific
co-authored Ski at Any Age. Elected
inactivity, or from illness, should not
physical exercise programs are par-
body and straightening joints weak-
to Ski Hall of Fame in 1975:
ditioning in older people (Benestad
en. Such weakness of the back and
data for physical exercise programs
plunge immediately into a full blown
1965. deVries 1974). Unfortunately,
ticularly valuable and practical for
shoulder muscles produces a hump-
to determine the best way of retard-
Studies have shown a gradual but
exercise program.
this is not subject to scientific in-
delaying the changes of aging and
ing the symptoms and signs of the
progressive deterioration in physio-
backed appearance which further
If I may introduce. a personal
quiry. However, in comparing the
the progression of organic musculo-
aging process and improving the
logic function associated with chron-
limits the amount and type of physi-
digression, with 20 years of active
tranquilizer effects of a light work-
skeletal and circulatory diseases.
quality of life and health of older
ologic age. This applies to the maxi-
exercise behind me, I am, at 75, in
out (brisk 15 minute simulated
People who have become habitually
Americans.
mum oxygen uptake, the maximum
infinitely better health as well as 50
walk) against a commonly pre-
sedentary in their living and think-
Hans Kraus, M.D., an interna-
heart rate, the vital capacity, the
pounds lighter than I was at 55.
scribed tranquilizer, meprobamate
ing often overeat, thereby laying the
tionally recognized orthopedic phy-
metabolic rate, and numerous other
During the winter months, if I can
(Miltown) it was found that the
groundwork for conditions which
sician, former Associate Professor
functions. Yet there is some ques-
get in two or more days of skiing per
workout brought about a highly sig-
stimulate the development of or-
of Physical Medicine and Rehabili-
tion as to whether these changes are
week, I feel that no additional exer-
nificant reduction of 20-23 percent
ganic disease. I refer specifically to
tation at New York University:
the result of age alone. One study
cise is necessary. During the spring,
in nervous tension in older men and
complaints of aches and pains in
The physically inactive individual
suggests that the decline in maxi-
summer and fall, when skiing is out
women whereas the meprobamate
joints and muscles, low back strain
shows signs of aging earlier in life.
mum heart rate is related to the
of the question, I jog two miles
had no immediate effect (deVries,
and transient illnesses of the cardio-
He exists physiologically at a lower
docline in metabolic rate, rather
daily, three or more days each week.
Adams, 1972). It is possible that
vascular system such as labile high
potential and is less well equipped
than to age itself. Other observa-
Kind friends occasionally ask me
this tranquilizer effect of exercise
blood pressure and coronary spasms.
to maintain homeostasis and to meet
tions have suggested that if an active
if, at 75, I am still skiing. My answer
is the the basis for the reported
daily stresses. This low level of
exercise program is pursued, the
is, of course I was late in getting
euphoria.
function, combined with enforced
maximum oxygen uptake does not
started, and I have a lot of missing
The weight of the available evi-
suppression of the "fight and flight"
decline, or declines much more
years to make up for. Besides, I am
dence at the present time does sug-
response, enhances the incidence of
slowly.
trying to follow in the footsteps of
gest that the intelligent choice of
disease. If physical activity drops
To be truly effective, exercise
Herman Smith-Johannsen, better
life style would include a suitably
below a certain minimum, weight
must be most vigorous and sustained,
known as "Jackrabbit Johannsen."
vigorous physical fitness regimen.
increase becomes unavoidable un-
and, once the individual is in suit-
Jackrabbit is still active as a cross
Ideally physical fitness is a condi-
less caloric intake is stringently re-
able condition, part of it perhaps
country skier at the age of 100, and
tion which should be achieved in
stricted.
should be close to the individual's
I have another 25 years to go before
youth, pursued in middle age, and
Good physical fitness work should
maximum ability. It must also be
I can equal his present records.
never relinquished insofar as that is
actually start in childhood and
regular, the more regular the better.
What is needed is to put to work
humanly possible.
should include daily exercise classes
During building up and improve-
the knowledge and experience of
of at least an hour in every ele-
ment phases, exercise should, if
those in the fields of health, physical
8
AGING
April 1976
9
education and recreation. We must
have sufficient funding to make
available to older persons the pro-
grams, leadership and facilities
which will enable them to become
involved on a year around basis in
physical activities which will help to
When You're
keep them healthy and mentally
alert, thus increasing their independ-
ence and perhaps even prolonging
their lives.
The Federal Government could
Young at Heart
forward these purposes by making
grants to localities, states and other
public and private agencies who
would agree to plan, staff and main-
By C. Carson Conrad
tain such programs and facilities.
Executive. Director
Within a relatively few years, such
President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
grants would more than pay for
themselves by reducing the heavy
expenditures for medical and para-
medical services for which the Gov-
C. Carson Conrad
ernment is now liable.
Part II of this article will appear in the
"Physical activity performed in groups permits an experience which changes people's
May-June issue of Aging.
attitudes and behavior and improves their interpersonal relationships."
"Y
ou're as young as you feel."
Their words, if heeded, are abun-
an authority on longevity, took issue
Vigorous older people have been
dant with promise.
with traditional medical advice urg-
First School of Aging Dedicated At University Of Southern California
telling us that for as long as anyone
As one who is both personally
ing older persons to "slow down."
can recall. Until recently the state-
and professionally interested in such
"I believe," he said, "that we must
ment usually was received by the
matters, I believe a scientific and
do everything we can, as we grow
social services, public administra-
young with amused tolerance. It
social breakthrough of great sig-
older, to resist the inclination to
ETHEL PERCY ANDRUS GERONTOLOGY CENTER
tion, and long-term care. Students
was, most of them thought, a verbal
nificance is the recognition that
slow down the tempo of our living.
have a special "Gerontology Semes-
crutch the elderly used to keep them-
many of the problems we have his-
I am convinced that if you will just
ter" to gain practical experience with
selves from sliding over the brink
torically attributed to aging are
sit around and wait for infirmity or
well and frail elderly in both com-
into senility. Today we know they
really the products of neglect and
death to come along you will not
munity programs and institutions.
were right all along; "you're as
abuse.
have to wait so long.'
Speaking at the dedication cere-
young as you feel" accurately sum-
Dr. Merrit Stiles, a noted intern-
Dr. Robert Butler, a clinical psy-
monies were international experts
marizes current medical opinion on
ist-cardiologist, suggested last year
chiatrist and successful author, was
in government, medicine, and the
the subject of aging.
in his written testimony to the Sen-
equally positive about the benefits of
arts.
Dr. Lester Breslow, Dean of the
ate Subcommittee on Aging that
staying active. He quoted a fellow
School of Public Health at the Uni-
physical activity is the key to pro-
researcher as follows: "Exercise is
Radio Series on Aging
versity of California at Los Angeles,
longing good mental and physical
the closest thing to an anti-aging pill
recently stated that a 55-year-old
health.
now available. It acts like a miracle
The New York Council for the
man who observes good living habits
"Many of us," he said, "have no-
drug. and it's free for the doing."
Humanities has awarded a grant of
may be as "young" as a man born
ticed that our healthier older patients
The weight of this and additional
$9,500 to the Brookdale Center on
25 or 30 years later who lives care-
-particularly those in their late
supportive testimony moved Con-
Students enrolled in USC's new Leonard Davis School of Gerontology leave the
Aging at Hunter College for a radio
lessly.
seventies, eighties, and nineties—
gress to amend the Older Americans
Ethel Percy Andrus Gerontology Center where the school is located.
series on aging this spring.
"The daily habits of people," he
are, almost without exception, en-
Act in language which directs the
The 12-part series will be broad-
added, "have a lot more to do with
thusiastic persons who are still young
Administration on Aging to "en-
The first professional school
The Davis School is the first to
cast weekly on WNYU. The pro-
what makes them sick and when
in spirit. It is a moot question
courage the development of services
focusing on the study of aging was
offer undergraduate and graduate
grams will involve interviews as well
they die than do all the influences of
whether they are active because of
designed to enable older Americans
formally dedicated as the Leonard
degrees and certificates preparing
as discussions between retired schol-
medicine."
their enthusiasm or enthusiastic be-
to attain and maintain physical and
Davis School of Gerontology in con-
students to work in educational and
ars of the humanities and senior
Dr. Breslow's statement is re-
cause of their activity. It may be sig-
mental well-being through programs
vocation ceremonies Feb. 16-19 at
administrative fields dealing with the
citizens at settlement houses and
markably similar to one President
nificant that if one of these healthy
of regular physical activity and exer-
the University of Southern Cali-
aged. A multidisciplinary faculty in
other local community sites.
Ford issued last fall. "It's a tragic
older individuals is compelled to re-
cise."
fornia.
sociology, psychology, biology, ed-
The grant to the Brookdale Cen-
fact," the President wrote, "that
main inactive for a prolonged pe-
Located within the Ethel Percy
ucation, social welfare, and public
ter on Aging is one of nine totaling
many of our most serious ailments
riod, by accident or illness, deterior-
Growing Interest in Physical
Andrus Gerontology Center, the
administration utilizes the facilities
$130,000 for 1976 announced by
are self-inflicted, or at least are
ation will set in and a steady down-
Fitness for the Elderly
school began its program of instruc-
the New York Council for the
at the Andrus Center.
within our power to minimize or
hill course will ensue unless the
The National Association for
tion last September. Dr. James
Humanities. The Council is an in-
avoid."
individual can be stimulated to re-
Human Development has launched
Birren, Director of the USC Andrus
Since last fall, the Davis School
dependent public organization sup-
What Dr. Breslow and others of
turn to the greatest degree of activ-
a pilot project to train physical fit-
Center, is Dean of the new school,
has been training over 80 students
ported by the National Endowment
like persuasion are saying is that we
ity possible."
ness leaders for the elderly. This
and Dr. Margaret E. Hartford is
to work in the fields of health serv-
for the Humanities and private
can exercise decisive control over
Testifying at the same subcommit-
grant has been funded by the Ad-
Director.
ices, recreation, adult education,
foundations.
the length and quality of our lives.
tee session, Dr. Theodore Klumpp,
ministration on Aging (AoA) and
10
AGING
April 1976
11
TIMES
is co-sponsored by the PCPFS. The
Neither the knowledge that regu-
PRESIDENTIAL
the doing, to nearly everyone.
image. This gives them the courage
who use bifocal or trifocal glasses.
or
goal of this program, functioning
lar exercise can slow down the aging
I don't mean to imply that exer-
that propels them into interesting ex-
It helps them deal safely with the
under Titles III and VII of the Older
process nor the examples set by a
AWARD
cise is a panacea for everything that
periences, and it helps them to move
problems caused by quick changes
American's Act, is to educate, in-
few enlightened individuals mean,
ails the elderly. However, most med-
with ease, grace, and self-confidence.
from one optical focus to another.
form, motivate, and enlist support
of course, that all older Americans
9:28/109 By Bulova
ical authorities support the belief-
The list of benefits the elderly can
are prepared to rush into fitness pro-
and most active people experience
Physical Fitness Fosters
and participation of older persons in
derive from regular exercise could
grams on signal. They merely indi-
the fact-that regular exercise is an
Independence
physical activities for the purpose of
go on and on but I think the case al-
enhancing their general health.
cate the potential of such a result.
effective form of preventive health
But perhaps the greatest single
ready is strong enough. Medical
One aspect of the pilot project in-
The reality of the situation is far less
care and the best means yet discov-
benefit to the person who stays fit is
opinion, the President, the Congress,
volves clinics held in Toledo, Ohio;
encouraging.
ered for perfecting and preserving
the degree of independence and self-
and our common sense all tell us the
Newark, Del.; and the Dallas/Fort
GG
BROS
our natural faculties. The weight of
reliance it affords. This is a quality
direction in which we must move.
Worth, Texas areas. The clinics fea-
evidence on the side of those who
to be particularly prized by older
We can't begin too soon.
ture older persons themselves to-
Elderly Lack Knowledge
hold this view is impressive.
Americans. There is a great psycho-
We have, I am convinced, done
gether with representatives of State
About Exercise
Various organs and systems of the
logical and financial advantage in
older Americans a great disservice
and local service agencies, physical
According to the National Adult
body, particularly the digestive sys-
having the ability to plan and do
through our traditional "concern"
educators, community college offi-
Physical Fitness Survey, only 39%
tem, are stimulated through activity
things without depending upon rela-
for their welfare. By constantly tell-
cials, volunteers, parks and recrea-
and as a result work more effec-
of Americans aged 60 and over get
tives, friends, or hired help. To drive
ing them to "slow down" and "take
tion personnel, and community
tively.
any systematic exercise. The favor-
your own automobile, to be able to
it easy" we have helped keep them
leaders.
ite form of exercise in this age group
Posture can be improved through
perform useful work, to come and
from that physical activity which can
The prominent pianist and enter-
is walking, which is practiced by
proper exercise by increasing the tone
go as you please, to be an asset
keep both their spirits and their
tainer, Victor Borge, is serving as
46% of the men and 33% of the
of supporting muscles. This not only
rather than a liability in emergen-
bodies young.
Honorary National Chairman of the
women. Few of these older people
improves appearance but can de-
cies-these are forms of personal
Recently when we were searching
campaign. Mr. Borge, one of this
engage in more strenuous forms of
crease the chance of lower-back pain
freedom well worth the effort they
for a theme for an adversiting cam-
Nation's more vigorous and delight-
activity. Only 1% are joggers, 6%
and disability.
cost.
paign, we settled on the lyrics of a
ful older people, is featured in film,
Physically active individuals are
do calisthenics, 3% ride bicycles,
Two of the things which tend to
song entitled "Young at Heart." The
television, and radio material devel-
and 4% swim.
less likely to experience a heart at-
tack or other forms of cardiovascu-
decay most rapidly as we grow older
excerpt we used goes this way:
oped for the program. He urges all
Despite this concrete evidence that
are our sense of balance and our
"And if you should survive to a
older Americans to "Join the Active
lar disease than are sedentary peo-
relatively few Americans aged 60
Mr. Conrad and Olympic Gold Medal
ple. Furthermore, an active person
flexibility. Regular exercise can help
hundred and five,
People Over 60."
skating champion Shelia Young stand
preserve both.
Think of all you'll derive out of
and over get much vigorous exercise,
The Delaware and Ohio work-
before a billboard announcing the
who does suffer a coronary attack
being alive.
71% of them say they believe they
Presidential Sports ward in Times
will probably have a less severe form
The aging process and disuse
shops/clinics were conducted in
And here is the best part-you'll
get all the exercise they need. This
cause the tissues surrounding the
conjunction with the PCPFS regional
Square. Photo courtesy Sam Ross.
and is more apt to survive the ex-
have a headstart,
gap between what older people do
perience.
joints to thicken and lose their elas-
clinic program.
If you are among the very young
and the way they perceive what they
What emerges from the testimony
That is a fairly harsh indictment
Physical activity is as important
ticity. Regularly moving the joints
at heart."
do indicates the special nature of
of the current state of fitness and fit-
as diet in maintaining proper weight,
through their full range of motion
and developments I have cited here
That says, in its poetic fashion,
their problem.
is a clear indication that the time is
ness knowledge among older Ameri-
and being overweight is more than
can help offset this process, and it
pretty much what I've been trying to
ripe for major advances in physical
The adult survey showed that the
cans. Nevertheless, I believe it is
a matter of personal discomfort or
also can help delay or reduce the
say here. I hope my arguments are
fitness programs for our older citi-
elderly are much less likely than the
accurate and it enables us to fairly
embarrassment. It is a factor in sev-
development of arthritis.
received as enthusiastically as was
zens. I believe this opportunity coin-
young to have had physical educa-
judge the nature of the challenge
eral chronic diseases, shortened life
Maintaining the sense of balance
Frank Sinatra's recording of the
cides with a growing awareness on
tion, to have had any experience in
confronting us.
expectancy, and emotional problems.
is especially vital to older people
song.
the part of older people themselves
competitive sports, or to have had
The challenge is one we cannot
Medical authorities now recommend
that a regular exercise regimen can
formal instruction in sports skills.
fail to meet. The stakes are too high.
that weight reduction be accom-
forestall many of the physical prob-
For instance, only 7% of American
What we are talking about is, quite
plished by a reasonable increase in
lems which tend to pile up as the
men and women aged 60 years and
simply, more years of life and a
daily physical activity, supplemented,
years mount.
over have had swimming lessons.
more abundant way of living for 30
if necessary, by proper dietary con-
Thumbing through recent issues
From their responses to survey ques-
million of our fellow citizens.
trols.
of the newsletter published by the
tions, it also is apparent that few of
Exercise can't prevent the stresses
PCPFS, I encountered articles on a
them have been informed about the
Exercise Slows Aging Process
of life, but it can help us cope with
78-vear-old marathon runner, an
contributions that physical fitness
We're all familiar with the fact
them. For many individuals, fre-
86-year-old woman who is a com-
can make to personal health, per-
that the aging process frequently ex-
quent involvement in some sort of
petitive distance swimmer, a high
formance, and appearance.
presses itself as a progressive in-
physical activity helps to reduce
school coach who had matched the
If I were asked to characterize
crease in body fat and accompany-
mental fatigue, tension, strain, and
State high school mile record he had
the attitudes toward exercise and
ing loss of muscle and bone mass; a
boredom.
set 20 years earlier, and a middle-
fitness of most Americans in my age
gradual loss of physical vigor; in-
There is an advantage also in
t
aged Michigan lawyer who had
bracket, my list would look like this:
creasing levels of blood cholesterol
keeping fit to cope with conditions
f
equalled his collegiates swimming
1. They believe their need for
and triglycerides; and a high inci-
caused by illness or accident. The
marks. Not all of these people are
exercise diminishes and eventually
dence of hypertension and cardio-
person who has good control of his
old, and none of them is typical, but
disappears as they grow older.
vascular disease. If we could pre-
or her body and who possesses
S
they offer dramatic proof that life
2. They vastly exaggerate the
scribe a drug which would alleviate
ample physical reserves is much bet-
t
need not be all downhill after age 30
risks involved in vigorous exercise
or delay the onset of these condi-
ter equipped to deal with problems
I
or 40. More commonplace but
after middle age.
tions, I am confident nearly every-
and to undergo a rehabilitative proc-
(
equally convincing examples can be
3. They overrate the benefits of
one over 40 would rush out to buy
ess.
a
found in the ranks of any good jog-
light, sporadic exercise.
it. Physical fitness doesn't come in a
The physically active man or
ging or cycling club, or in a YMCA
4. They underrate their own
neat package, but it does have one
woman usually has a positive self-
"Casey" Conrad includes jogging among his physical fitness and sports activities.
exercise class.
abilities and capacities.
distinct advantage: it's available, for
1
April 1976
13
12
AGING
Workshops Spark Fitness Programs
"Over Sixties" Keep Fit At Waxter Center
T
By Jill Williams
Public Information Officer
he National Association for
ledo, a smaller one was convened for
program extra scope and thrust. In
President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
Human Development (NAHD) has
the managers of 32 nutrition proj-
Texas, for example, the State's
completed its last workshop designed
ects in a 26-county area of south-
YM-YWCA network has enthusias-
to encourage the growth of physical
eastern Ohio. This led to the cre-
tically backed the project and invited
fitness and health education pro-
ation of exercise and fitness pro-
NAHD to explain and demonstrate
T
grams for the Nation's elderly.
grams at each site. In Baltimore, a
wisting, bending, lifting, stretch-
the program to representatives of all
Richland College in Dallas, Texas
special training session for nutrition
their facilities throughout the State
ing, the "over 60" crowd at Balti-
more's Waxter Center is keeping
was the site Jan. 23 and 24 of a final
site managers was held January 20
in March.
fit. They move easily and with
statewide workshop planned by
and resulted in the implementation
To keep pace with the progress of
enthusiasm; there are smiles and
NAHD as part of its effort to imple-
of fitness programs at all 30 sites.
those who are already involved in
ment a national demonstration
Plans were also developed to initiate
laughter and occasionally a few
the program, NAHD has prepared a
moans and groans. One lady ex-
health education and fitness project
or expand fitness programs at the
second series of exercises, entitled
claims, "I can't get up!" after trying
for older persons. Operating under
other 96 sites throughout Maryland.
"Moderate Exercises for People
a few situps, but a fellow participant
a grant from the Administration on
In Toledo, a coalition of the local
Over 60," to complement the initial
Aging, NAHD last summer desig-
YMCA, YWCA, the Health Retiree
is quick to show her the best tech-
series, "Basic Exercises for People
nique. "I did three more leg lifts
nated four States as test sites for the
Center, and the Northwestern Ohio
Over 60." In production is a third
today," says an excited exerciser.
project: Ohio, Delaware, Maryland,
Planning Council developed plans to
series of exercises and activities de-
After an hour of continuous exer-
and Texas. Statewide workshops to
implement fitness programs in a 10-
signed to accommodate older per-
cise, instructor Karen Hoffberger
launch the program in Ohio and
county area and, through support
sons physically capable of undertak-
commends the group for a job well
Delaware-Maryland were held last
from the area aging office, has em-
ing more advanced fitness activities.
done.
October in Toledo and Newark, Del.
ployed a full time coordinator for
The National Association for
All of the men and women in the
The Texas workshop was NAHD's
the program. The Toledo Board of
Human Development's program,
class are about 65, although a hus-
largest effort to date, drawing more
Education, local churches, and sen-
"Join the Active People Over 60,"
band and wife duo, William and
than 450 participants from across
ior citizen organizations are coop-
has generated interest not only
Nora Goldman, are both 79. In a
the State. Arthur S. Flemming, U.S.
erating with the coalition to organize
within the four demonstration States,
few months Karen has seen notice-
Commissioner on Aging, keynoted
physical activity programs in places
but throughout the country. NAHD
the meeting.
where older citizens congregate or
headquarters in Washington has re-
able improvement in her group's
flexibility and endurance. "The over-
The "over 60 crowd" is shown doing some of their exercises outside the Baltimore
The overall goal of the program,
live, including housing units.
ceived letters from every State in-
The cooperation of governmental
all health and general attitude of
Waxter Center.
operating under Titles III and VII
quiring about the program and re-
of the Older Americans Act, is to
agencies, especially the network of
these people is so much better," she
Jewish Community Center, several
The late Dr. Mason F. Lord of
questing information. Because the
said. "They get along with each
model project has created such in-
community colleges, and seven dif-
Baltimore's city hospitals developed
inform, motivate, and enlist the sup-
area aging offices and State aging
other much better, too." The in-
port and participation of older per-
commissions, has been especially
terest, plans are now being devel-
ferent recreation centers.
the philosophy, and in the early
structor mentioned the most remark-
sons in physical activities which en-
helpful in launching the program in
According to Dr. Hans Kraus, an
1960's it was tested through the
oped to expand the program nation-
able case of improvement-a visual-
hance health and aid in disease
the demonstration States. The sup-
wide. Additional information is
internationally recognized orthoped-
Metropolitan Senior Citizens Center.
ly handicapped woman who had not
prevention and control. The state-
port and cooperation of non-govern-
available from NAHD, 1750 Penn-
ic physician, "There is a tremendous
The City of Baltimore then voted in
exercised in years. "When she first
mental organizations, particularly
sylvania Ave., N.W., Washington,
need for persons over sixty to under-
a $3,800,000 bond issue, which pro-
wide workshops provided an oppor-
came, Mrs. Johnson was very, very
stand the importance of regular
vided for construction of the present
tunity to educate community leaders
service organizations, has given the
D.C. 20006.
stiff and afraid to try to move her
physical activity in their lives, and
Waxter Center, named for Thomas
about the underlying causes of
body. In a few months she has be-
motivation for them to want to be
J. S. Waxter, Sr., a social welfare
cardio-vascular and other diseases
come flexible and has gained a lot
active." He believes that there is no
leader. Funded entirely by the city
associated with aging and about the
more confidence." Mrs. Johnson
therapeutic importance of physical
more important nor more neglected
of Baltimore, the Center was opened
herself admits that she feels better,
activity as one grows older. The
aspect of life than physical and
in March, 1974 and already has
has lost weight, and lowered her
mental vigor through exercise. "It is
over 6,000 members. Membership is
workshops also provided an oppor-
blood pressure.
never too late to begin fitness pro-
tunity to demonstrate regimens of
open to any Baltimore resident over
Karen believes her group can han-
grams under proper medical super-
60. There is no fee for membership
moderate exercise especially de-
signed for people over 60 and to dis-
dle a fairly vigorous workout. "They
vision," he said.
or for any of the services provided.
know their limits and will work right
The staff at the Waxter Center
cuss ways to marshall community
In addition to the physical fitness
resources which provide opportuni-
up to them," she said. At the start
offers swimming, bowling, folk danc-
program the Center offers social
of each class Karen cautions the
ing, square dancing and ballroom
ties for older people to participate
work services, and classes ranging
in exercise and fitness activities.
group, "Stop when you get tired."
dancing. The staff is working to dis-
from sewing to Spanish. Dramatics,
There are certainly no complaints
pel the belief that it is harmful for
The statewide workshops have
and it is most obvious the partici-
history, first aid, French, ceramics,
people over 60 to exert themselves
generated regional and local work-
pants are enjoying themselves.
physically. Experts agree that, on
and painting are a few of the 100
shops in each of the States where
classes and program activities that
The Waxter Center is just one of
the contrary, it is vitally important
the program is being introduced.
to stay active. The concept that
take place every week at the Waxter
These, in turn, are sparking new op-
the places sponsoring a fitness pro-
gram for the elderly, although it is
older persons must be physically
Center. The social services include
portunities for the elderly to enjoy
well, independent, and living in their
an information and referral depart-
the psychological and physical bene-
certainly one of the leaders in the
fits of exercise.
A group of elderly take part in fitness activities especially designed to provide
movement. In Baltimore there are
own homes is the basic philosophy
ment. Here a member could, for in-
moderate exercise for persons over 60. Photo courtesy of National Association for
exercise classes for seniors at the
behind the Center's founding.
stance, get help finding a job or a
Following the workshop in To-
Human Development.
15
14
AGING
April 1976
place to live. He or she could learn
showings at the Center are planned
of the 3-story, 55,000 square foot
how to cook, how to care for an
for the weekends.
building. Hanging plants, paintings
apartment, how to file for property
A special noon-day meal is served
and ceramic work (done by the
tax reductions; staff members are on
free of charge in the Center's cafe-
members) and striking posters of
hand to answer every question and
teria. "Eating Together in Balti-
the week's activities contribute to
"Fitness Over Sixty:
help with almost any problem. The
more," the only federally-funded
the varm surroundings. The effect
health services are designed to de-
program in the Center, provides
is that of a large home, with lots of
Swedish Style"
tect and prevent health problems
1,000 hot meals a week. According
busy people and bustling activity.
and illnesses. A day care program
to Program Supervisor Eleanor
The concept behind the Waxter
provides specialized care for those
Hooper, "This is the only meal that
Center-that people over 60 are en-
By Beritt Brattnäs Stanton
people who would otherwise be con-
some of the members get each day."
titled the right to live independent,
Attaché for Sports
fined to a nursing home.
She explained that the staff is help-
healthy, productive lives-is a grow-
Swedish Consulate General
There are also special events each
ing to remedy this problem by hold-
ing concept of changing ideas and
week. One of the most popular ac-
ing classes and demonstrations in
special needs. The Center plans to
tivities is the weekly dance, which
cooking, nutrition, and even food
accommodate those special needs as
gives members a chance to practice
purchasing.
they arise. New programs will be
the steps they learned in class. Field
The building itself is an attractive
developed, new services explored.
trips to the Kennedy Center, Disney
red-brick structure, with many open
The city of Baltimore has instituted
Ragnar Frunck set a skiing record on his 75th birthday.
World, New York, and elsewhere
rooms, colorful furnishings, and
a challenge to cities everywhere to
are sponsored at reduced costs.
large windows. Senior citizens fig-
consider the lives of their citizens
D
Theatre performances and film
ured in the planning of every aspect
over 60.
uring the decade of the sixties,
Medical and Social Viewpoints
others, and stimulates them physi-
the Swedes made great efforts to im-
Exercise for pensioners is consid-
cally and mentally. From the medi-
prove the living and housing condi-
Los Angeles County Has Senior Prom Program for Elderly
ered a very valuable activity by
cal point of view, these physical ac-
tions of the elderly; at the same time,
medical and social standards be-
tivities fulfill a great task-that of
there was increasing concern to help
cause it breaks the pensioners' isola-
keeping bones, joints, and muscles
The Senior Citizens Unit of the
Sammy Davis Jr. and Rafer John-
than 1,500 older persons. Los
them continue living in their own
tion, gives them more contact with
mobile and supple. The heart, lungs,
Los Angeles, California, County De-
son met seniors. At the Americana
Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, Bea
environment. Legislation required
and alimentary tract also improve.
partment of Parks and Recreation
Hotel in Culver City, Carroll O'Con-
Arthur, and Susan St. James were
the municipal authorities to take
Coordination and balance are bet-
has developed a "Third Generation
nor, Dick Sargant, and Suzanne
present for a fourth event at John
stock of the existing needs of old-
ter, as is also the general state of
Senior Prom" for the county's
Pleshette signed autographs for more
Anson Ford Park in Bell Gardens.
age pensioners in their areas, and to
health. Naturally doctors are giving
elderly.
offer all the forms of assistance that
the pensioners regular check-ups. In
Program initiators include Chuck
were gradually introduced.
the spring of 1971 there were about
Bolinger, Regional Recreation Serv-
As the services offered by the mu-
30,000 pensioners taking part in
ices Superintendent; Diane Holland,
nicipal authorities increased, they
1,300 gymnastic groups in about
Special Recreation Services Direc-
were also reorganized. In a number
420 towns in Sweden. (Sweden has
tor; Domingo Delgado, Senior Citi-
of large municipalities, this involved
about 8 million inhabitants, smaller
zens Unit Director; Rosey Grier, and
Some of the celeb-
the construction of service centers
than New York City.)
rities appearing at
Madelyn Rhue. They feel the proms
a recent prom
open to residents from homes for
Since not all older people are able
bring celebrities, civic officials, and
included left to
the aged or "pensioners' hotels" and
to carry on the same amount or
senior citizens together to generate
right: Madelyn
to other elderly in the neighborhood.
types of physical activities, various
awareness of the "third generation"
Rhue, Rosey Grier,
In the seventies, social policy in
classes have been set up to meet
Peggy and Janet
in our society.
Lennon, Susan
this sector has concentrated on the
their differing needs. Pensioners'
Initially, invitations were sent to
Stratford, and
following points: (1) Physical and
gymnastics, exercises, or other phy-
officers of senior citizens clubs
William and
Marilyn Davis of
cultural activity, (2) improved staff
sical activities are arranged in the
throughout the county. This led to
the 5th Dimension.
training at all levels, (3) more fre-
old peoples' homes, or "pensioners'
the development of a continuing
hotels.' These participants are usu-
quent medical check-ups as retire-
program involving a broad cross-
ment age approaches, and preven-
ally very weak, with physical and
section of the senior citizen com-
tive health care, and (4) campaigns
mental handicaps. In addition there
munity. The proms are a cooperative
for a better diet and a more active
are exercise groups open to all pen-
effort among different senior citizen
physical life. The opposite side of
sioners still living in their own
clubs, community colleges, and other
this attractive coin, however, is the
homes in the municipalities who
recreation departments. Combining
take part in these exercise-groups.
serious and painful problem of lone-
resources, they provide decorations,
Very mobile pensioners belong to
liness. The rapid urbanization of the
refreshments, and door prizes.
fifties and sixties has carried children
groups where exercises are more
The first prom was held in August
The Third Genera-
strenuous. The movements are
1973 at the Statler Hilton Hotel in
tion Senior Prom
far from their parents. Other factors
chosen to suit the various groups.
Los Angeles with "Rosey" Grier
offers refreshments
separating the generations include
Each session lasts about 30-45 min-
and door prizes
and Madelyn Rhue as co-hosts.
the changing moral code, the emer-
as well as dancing
utes. Generally schools are used
Merv Griffin was master of cere-
gence of new values, and the multi-
to old and new
after school hours.
monies and other celebrities attend-
sounds.
plying demands of the "consumer
ing were Ethel Kennedy and Gene
society." Sweden is the country in
How One Older Swede
Kelly.
which old-age pensioners enjoy the
Stays Physically Fit
best material condition; it is also
One prom was held at Compton
Sweden has programs for pensioners in
A couple of examples of very fit
Community College and another in
that in which they experience the
homes for the aged and those in the
and physically young pensioners are
El Monte where Shirley Jones, Mrs.
greatest solitude.
community.
Ragner Frunck and Stig Bölling. Mr.
AGING
April 1976
17
16
Frunck, 76, is one of the most ac-
ing. He is up at 6 each morning and
Mr. Ragnar Frunck's formula is:
Promotion of Physical Fitness for
tive businessmen in Stockholm. He
does 10 minutes of "sitting up" exer-
(1) Walk up stairs until you are
Older People
sold his firm when he retired. but
cises. He uses weights (up to 50
tired. (2) Do not ride if you can
Rikskommitten stands for more
opened a new one to keep busy-
pounds) for stretching and limber-
walk. Don't walk if you can run. (3)
physical fitness opportunities for
and is today busier than ever. Mr.
ing up back, neck, and shoulder
Never stuff yourself. (4) Be careful
older people and is the Govern-
Frunck is no ordinary exercise en-
muscles. He showers and then pops
about fatty food. (5) Eat fish regu-
Members of Par-
ment's committee for promotion of
thusiast. To celebrate his 75th birth-
down to a very simple breakfast of
larly. It is nourishing and not stuff-
liament, regardless
day, he took a little trip to Finland.
juice and oatmeal. He says oatmeal
ing. (6) Exercise and enjoy it. (7)
of their age, take
the idea, the information center for
But he did it the really enjoyable
is "full of he adds two
Take a mid-day break by going out
part in regular
the country, and the organization
physical fitness
that is educating new leaders and
way, on water skis, towed behind a
teaspoons of honey for flavoring.
for exercise. Mr. Frunck is one of
activities.
teachers. In every community we
motor-boat. While he was at it,
And with a cup of coffee he is off
our great Vikings.
have the local committee (under
he broke the time record for the
to work.
Since his business is booming, this
The Vasa- Sweden's
Rikskommitten) usually very well
108-mile trip, skiing Stockholm to
organized and represented by doc-
Mariehamn, which is on the Finnish
does not give him much time for
Cross Country
tors, persons from the local govern-
Island of Aland in the Baltic Sea in
exercise. Well, not as much as he
Every year in March newspapers
ment, pensioner organizations, and
just three hours. Mr. Frunck has
would really like. He gets away sev-
the world over run photographs
naturally the special education lead-
been active in sports since he was
eral times a week for jogging or in
from the Vasa Race in Sweden. The
ers or exercise teachers for the el-
a boy.
the winter skiing (cross-country)
stock shot most people see is of the
derly.
Mr. Frunck does not look 76-
in the park near his home. Twice a
starting line in Salen. Upwards of
The Vikings have as a whole con-
even in Sweden where people look
week he meets for two hours with
10,000 cross-country skiers start off
tinued to keep strong and healthy
younger than they are. (Swedish
an exercise group that has been
at the same time on the 53-mile run
through the generations. Backpack-
businessmen often say they have
holding this kind of session for 40
through Dalarna province. A few
ing and other outdoor activities are
problems sending junior executives
years. Although he's out on his
hundred professionals compete for
usually a part of every Swedes' vaca-
to handle business abroad. In some
water skis every chance he gets, he
the neck-draped victory wreath at
tion. A little hard work physically is
does draw a line at "kite skiing"-
the finish line in Mora about five
countries, businessmen only want to
a true pleasure and as you get into
being towed in the air behind the
deal with wise old men-and boyish-
hours later. But by far the greater
larly, was found to be 45 years old
the habit at a young age, it is almost
boat. That's simply too dangerous
number of entrants are amateurs,
looking 40-year-olds won't do.)
physiologically; while the younger
impossible to get rid of it. At least
for anyone-although it is great fun.
people who have been training all
man, a student who did not exercise
that is my own experience.
There's no secret to Ragnar
Diet? Nothing special-just a lot
winter long for this big trial of
at all, was found to be exactly of the
Frunck's youthfulness-other than
of greens and fish. "Fish is a great
strength. True, they do run against
same age, physiologically 45 years
a few very simple rules of getting
food-and it is not something that
the clock and the pro competitors
old. Naturally after this finding phy-
City of Chicago Has
plenty of exercise and not overeat-
stuffs you," he says.
along the blueberry-potted track.
sical fitness has become a subject of
New Radio Series
increasing concern in Sweden, with
Devoted to Elderly
increased government support.
Physical Fitness Reduces
The Chicago Mayor's Office for
Senior Citizens has announced a
Health Care Costs
new 30-minute weekly radio series
There are other reasons for in-
offering news and information.
creased government support. Promi-
"Old Age/A New Look," pro-
nent among them are the facts that
duced by WBEZ-FM in cooperation
The real reason they undergo this
automation is reducing demands on
with the Mayor's Office, is broad-
weekend torture is to prove to them-
physical fitness and that the cost of
cast every Tuesday from 6:30 to
selves that they are capable of doing
medical care is mounting. The last
7:00 p.m. It is rebroadcast on Sun-
more.
item is of special importance. The
day from 11:30 a.m. to noon.
Stig Bölling, a 65 year old bank
increase in the cost of health care
Goal of the series is keeping the
branch manager, has entered the
can not be maintained and one
elderly informed about community
Vasa Race 37 times. "You need this
method of reducing it is to promote
activities and services, as well as na-
exercise when you have a sedentary
physical fitness. Widespread physical
tional and local issues which affect
job," he says almost apologetically.
fitness has led to a significant re-
them.
Other regular participants are the
allocation of funds, enabling large
The series will encompass legisla-
physical fitness experts, who are out
amounts of money tied up in cura-
tive analyses, book reviews, memor-
to prove scientifically that physical
tive medicine to be used instead for
abilia, and a calendar of events. The
exercise has rejuvenating effects. One
preventive treatment, thus paving
format will involve panel discus-
journalist who once did the Vasa
the way for an eventual improve-
sions, dialogs and interviews with
Race found he had become 18 years
ment in the health care bill. The cost
senior citizens, professionals in aging
younger physiologically, as meas-
of physical fitness programs is con-
and public officials, and on-location
ured by his increased oxygen uptake
siderably less than health care.
taping of public hearings and other
capacity.
Apart from such economic con-
events.
The first classic example about re-
siderations, the main motivation be-
The program is designed as a
juvenation resulted when our world
hind our physical fitness programs
forum through which the elderly and
famous physiological department
for older people is the desire to keep
those serving them can share their
compared two men, one of them 64
people healthy and consequently
thoughts on such issues as health
years old, the other 22. The older
able to lead happier and more useful
care, nutrition, housing, income and
man, who had been exercising regu-
lives.
transportation.
18
AGING
April 1976
19
N.Y. Center Offers
specified number of years-has also
ing Program. Outings have helped
risen sharply. Annuity payments
bridge the gap between inner city
New Programs for
Title VII Nutrition Program
from life insurance companies
and suburban residents and estab-
City's Elderly
amounted to $2.9 billion during
lished a sense of commitment and
1974, an increase of $306 million,
friendship.
The Council Center for Senior
Organizes Senior Citizens'
or 12%, over the previous year.
Citizens of Brooklyn, N.Y. is offer-
Among those receiving payments
Course Offerings for 1976
ing college-level courses for credit in
are male family heads who had pur-
cooperation with Touro College.
chased annuities to be assured of
The Institute of Gerontology of
Night at Tanglewood
College instructors conduct
a continuing income after retiring.
the University of Michigan-Wayne
courses on a seminar level. Each
There are also widows receiving a
State University has published its
course is offered once a week for a
lifetime income from annuities pur-
1976 Continuing Education Offer-
three-hour session and provides six
chased by their husbands as well as
ings: Residential Institutes and
By Frederick H. Whitham
credits a semester. Applicants must
unmarried women and men whose
Workshops.
Executive Director
be 60 or older, have a high school
annuities offer protection against
Brief descriptions of residential
Berkshire Home Care Corporation*
diploma or pass an equivalency
outliving their financial resources.
institutes and workshops offered are
exam, and have a gross annual ad-
included, along with information on
justed income under $5,000.
The Council Center has also es-
JASA Outings In New
admission requirements, university
credit, tutition fees, registration, and
tablished a telephone reassurance
York City Enhance
procedures in applying.
T
program to provide older shut-ins
Life of Urban Elderly
The Institute of Gerontology co-
hrough the efforts of the Berk-
after the dinner to transport those
pleased. The staff was available to
with regular social contacts.
operates with departments and
shire County Title VII Nutrition
unable to walk the distance to the
assist with the distribution of meals
Information about programs is
Project's support service program,
and the seating when needed. As
available from the Center, 1207
Since its inception in 1974, the
schools at the University of Michi-
theater.
JASA/Brookdale Department of
gan and Wayne State University to
nearly 700 elders enjoyed the First
The nutrition program used its
people were beginning their dinners,
Kings Highway, Brooklyn, N.Y.
Volunteer Services has been achiev-
offer graduate programs with geron-
the hosts from the Friends of Tan-
11229.
Annual Senior Citizen's night at
own catering service to provide the
ing its goal of creating volunteer
tology specialization. Programs
Tanglewood last August.
picnic dinners. Three menus were
glewood Council and the Berkshire
programs that enrich the lives of
through which students can earn
The program featured a galaxy of
reviewed for the selection of a qual-
County Nutrition Program greeted
New York City's Jewish elderly.
Specialist in Aging certificates along
ity meal at the best possible cost.
the guests with an introductory talk
Institute of Life
conductors-Arthur Fiedler, Gun-
Its first project, "JASA Outings
with graduate degrees include those
ther Schuller, Seiji Ozawa and Aaron
Reservation sheets and tickets
which included the history and pur-
Insurance Reports
To the Suburbs," was inaugurated in
in social work, public health, educa-
Copland-utilizing three orches-
were distributed to all the luncheon
pose of the summer home of the
Statistics on Aged
July 1974 to assist groups of senior
tion, architecture, psychology, guid-
tras. The actual Senior Citizens'
program centers and affiliated Coun-
Boston Symphony Orchestra and its
citizens escape the city's heat and
ance and counseling, public policy,
Night included transportation to and
cils on Aging several weeks in ad-
student training program. The con-
According to the Institute of Life
enlist suburban host groups who
and nursing. Certification in speci-
from the grounds of Tanglewood, a
vance. A deadline was set one week
cert followed as the highlight of the
Insurance, there is a "boom" in
would provide them with "A Day
fied content areas may also be
picnic dinner in the Friends of Tan-
before completing all details and
evening with the Young Artists per-
grandparents and more of them are
in the Country." JASA provided a
earned in short-term Residential In-
glewood tent and cafeteria, a hosted
schedules: total meal counts, bus
forming Wagner's "Forest Murmurs"
carrying life insurance.
bus and worker, advertised the out-
stitutes described in the brochure.
introductory greeting, and a concert
reservations, and ticket counts for
and Rachmaninoff's "Symphony No.
The U.S. Census statistics indicate
ing to members of a JASA Senior
by the Young Artists of the Berk-
the number of seats needed.
2" to the delight of the elders.
there are approximately 21 million
Center, and set up registration on a
I&R Service for Aged
shire Orchestra Summer Program.
Publicity efforts were then initi-
At the close of the concert every-
persons 65 years or over in the
first-come, first-served basis. The
Arrangements for the eventful
ated. Posters were placed at lunch-
one boarded the buses and returned
country today, an increase of over
hosts supplied the setting in a syn-
The Manpower Administration of
evening were initiated by contacting
eon site centers, Council on Aging
to their own community. A splendid
1.8 million in four years. In 1978,
agogue, community center, or large
the Department of Labor reports a
the Council of the Friends of Tan-
offices, and in certain storefronts.
time was had by all. And next year's
according to estimates, the total will
private home; prepared a luncheon;
program providing information and
glewood. This committee was offer-
The media were informed and radio
plans are well on the drawing board.
exceed 23 million, or more than
and planned and presented a pro-
referral services to elderly persons
ing an introductory evening to vari-
interviews and public service an-
11% of the population.
gram of entertainment including a
who need assistance in addition to
ous groups in Berkshire County to
nouncements were scheduled. The
Currently, the likelihood of hav-
visit to local places of interest.
job help.
have local citizens sample an eve-
communication between the Eve-
Agency for Elderly
ing all four grandparents at a child's
The program has expanded
Through a network of Job Service
ning of what Tanglewood is all
ning coordinators and the Tangle-
In Michigan Feels
10th birthday is 1 in 14. In 1920,
rapidly. Over 1,750 older persons
offices and Comprehensive Employ-
about. In working with the Council
wood officials, as well as the rest of
Financial Squeeze
the chances of such a family gather-
have participated and more than 500
ment and Training Act prime spon-
representatives in meetings and by
the staff, was ongoing to ensure
ing would have been only 1 in 90.
volunteers in 35 communities drawn
sors, older applicants seeking em-
telephone, the details of the pack-
proper updating and implementation
Senior Neighbors, Inc. in Kent
Even at age 20, the chances are
from Temple Sisterhoods, chapters
ployment aid can be referred to
age were arranged.
of the various aspects of the pro-
County, Michigan is experiencing
781 in 1,000 that a person will have
of the American Jewish Congress,
other types of services they may
Seating was reserved in the the-
gram.
the financial plight of many agencies
at least one living grandparent com-
and social action committees of
need.
ater for all elders and accompanying
The elders arrived in 14 buses
for senior citizens throughout the
pared to a 1920 ratio of 509 in
local temples and synagogues, have
An agreement has been developed
staff. The transportation was han-
from all areas of Berkshire County
country.
1,000.
also been involved. From an initial
by the Interdepartmental Task Force
dled by soliciting the various car-
and the two other Western Massa-
The agency reports that a short-
The Institute of Life Insurance
nine trips the first summer, outings
on Information and Referral, cre-
riers in the County for bids. After
chusetts counties. On entering the
age of funds for the current fiscal
also reports that there has been a
now occur year-round, with em-
ated by the Interdepartmental Work-
an agreement was reached, the
eating areas, the elders filed past the
year is forcing cutbacks of its func-
significant increase in the number of
phasis on the Jewish holidays as well
ing Group of the cabinet-level Com-
routes were mapped out in meetings
tables where the dinners were placed,
tions and personnel. Fiscal casual-
policy holders keeping their life
as summer months. Many suburban
mittee on Aging. The agreement's
with the bus company with consid-
picked up the boxed picnic supper
ties include the termination of
insurance in force after retirement.
groups include JASA Outings regu-
aim is to identify actions that can
eration of the needs of the elders in
and seated themselves wherever they
Elderscope, the agency's monthly
Almost two-thirds of the popula-
larly in their annual program plans.
be taken to make participating Fed-
each community. Drop-off spots at
publication with a circulation of
tion 65 and older now have policies.
The JASA/Brookdale Depart-
eral, State, and local agencies aware
Tanglewood were decided on the
7,000, the closing of one senior
The total of persons protected by
ment of Volunteer Services reports
of the resources each has to offer in
basis of where the elders were to
The Corporation is the Title VII
center, and the possible closing of
annuities contracts providing a
both senior citizens and host groups
helping seniors utilize community
picnic. A shuttle bus was available
grantee for Berkshire County.
another.
guaranteed income for life or for a
have benefited from the JASA Out-
opportunities.
20
AGING
April 1976
21
Students and Elderly
home economists, and commercial
trays to individuals and businesses in
Residents Aid Each Other
kitchens of food-related industries.
their areas.
They are classified as regular, dia-
The trays are not sold but are ex-
In Pa. Exchange Program
betic, low sodium or soft diet, and
changed for a donation that is used
Conference Calendar
under soup, sandwich, meat, vegeta-
to support the transportation project.
A cooperative arrangement be-
ble and dessert headings. Periodic
Donations have ranged in size
tween an elementary school and a
mailings to update menu ideas are
from $2 to $100 and so far have
nursing home is bringing residents
sent to those on the mailing list.
netted the transportation program
into the school and students into the
The receipes come in a 5" by 8"
more than $1,800.
home. Initiated three years ago, the
impact-proof plastic box. They are
Trays are purchased from an offi-
project involves the Walnut Street
collated, boxed, and mailed by the
cially licensed distributor of Bicen-
Apr. 1-2. Aging-1976: Spectrum of Ex-
tient, course. At the Frederic D. Ze-
Apr. 23. Developments in Aging: Health
School and Little Flower Manor,
Vocational Rehabilitation Center, a
tennial Products.
perience, conference. At the Sheraton-
man Center for Instruction of the
in the Later Years, workshop. At St.
both located in Darby, Pa.
training ground for the handicapped
Other senior citizen groups want-
Chicago Hotel, Chicago. IAHA In-
Jewish Home and Hospital for the
Dominic's Diocesan Center, 2401 Hol-
Under the program, nursing home
in Pittsburgh.
ing to learn more about the money-
stitute on Aging, 3300 W. Peterson
Aged, N.Y. Ms. Verna Gillis, Admin-
combe Blvd., Houston, Tex. The Gov-
residents are taken to the school by
They can be ordered by sending a
raising project should write: Bicen-
Ave., Chicago, Ill. 60659.
istrator's Program Coordinator, The
ernor's Committee on Aging, Research
R.S.V.P. participants each week and
check or money order for $2 to
tennial Products Division, NEDI,
Jewish Home and Hospital for Aged,
Utilization Program, P.O. Box 12786,
are greeted by the school's hostess,
cover postage and handling to Meals
Box 1776, Crookston, Minn. 56716.
Apr. 1-June 3. Oncology Nursing, pro-
120 West 106th St., New York, N.Y.
Capitol Station, Austin, Tex. 78711.
Mrs. Theresa Johnson. Mrs. John-
on Wheels, P.O. Box 1076, Pitts-
TV Series on Aging
gram. At UCLA's Center for the
10025.
son makes sure that the residents re-
burgh, Pa. 15219.
Health Sciences, Los Angeles, Calif.
Apr. 23-24. Planning for an Aging So-
ceive the correct room assignment
"Images of Aging," a national
Division of Nursing, UCLA Exten-
Apr. 8-June 24. Personnel Management
ciety, Gerontology Institute. At San-
for the day.
television series dealing with aging,
sion, P.O. Box 24902, Los Angeles,
and Leadership in Health Facilities,
gamon State University, Shepherd
At the beginning of this school
8
premiered Jan. 21 on Channel 20.
course. At UCLA School of Public
Calif. 90024.
Rd., Springfield, III. Gari Lesnoff-
year the residents had given 1300
The eight weekly programs pre-
Health, Los Angeles, Calif. Health
Caravaglia, Gerontology Committee,
hours of volunteer service to the
sented over the Public Broadcasting
Sciences, UCLA Extension, P.O. Box
Apr. 5-9. The Administration of Nurs-
the University, Springfield, III. 62708.
school. Most work directly with the
Service are designed to stimulate an
ing Homes and Extended Care Facili-
24902, Los Angeles, Calif. 90024.
children. One volunteer has served
examination of stereotypes by focus-
ties, course. At the School of Public
Apr. 9-10. The Meaning of Death, Ger-
Apr. 28. Eating and Aging: A Psycho-
as a library clerk.
ing on the process of growing old
Health of the Faculty of Medicine,
ontology Institute. At Sangamon State
social Approach to Nutrition, work-
Mrs. Joanne Abendschein acts as
and the aged themselves through
Columbia University, N.Y. Course
University, Shepherd Rd., Springfield,
shop. At the Frederic D. Zeman Cen-
coordinator for Little Flower Manor,
the eyes of film-makers, documen-
Coordinator, Nursing Home Admin-
III. Gari Lesnoff-Caravaglia, Geron-
ter for Instruction of the Jewish Home
keeping records of the volunteers'
tarians, and dramatists.
istration, Columbia University, Pro-
tology Committee, the University,
and Hospital for Aged, N.Y. Ms.
assistance and checking with teach-
The hour-long programs are built
gram of Continuing Education, 21
Springfield, III. 62708.
Verna Gillis, Administrator's Pro-
ers regarding their reactions and rec-
around a different theme and com-
Audubon Ave., Suite 305, New York,
gram Coordinator, The Jewish Home
ommendations for the program.
bine existing film and television
N.Y. 10032.
Apr. 10-11. Issues in Caring for Blind
and Hospital for Aged, 120 West
Eleven nursing home residents
work with commentary, questions,
and Deaf Patients, workshop. At
106th St., New York, N.Y. 10025.
come regularly to the school, usually
and observations.
Apr. 5-23. Adult Medical-Surgical On-
UCLA's Neuropsychiatric Institute,
for 2½ hours twice a week. Most
Program titles include: "A Matter
cology Nursing, course. At Boston
Los Angeles, Calif. Division of Nurs-
Apr. 28-30. Seminar and Annual Meet-
spend their time tutoring the chil-
of Age," an introduction to the
University School of Nursing, Depart-
ing, UCLA Extension, P.O. Box
ing of National Council for Home-
dren.
anthology concept of the series
ment of Continuing Education. Oncol-
24902, Los Angeles, Calif. 90024.
maker-Home Health Aide Services,
Under the reciprocal arrangement,
which utilizes existing programming
Inc. At the Roosevelt Hotel, 45th St.
ogy Program, the University, 635
students go to the Little Flower
Two seniors hold the Bicentennial tray
material; "The Zone of Silence," an
Apr. 20-22. Administration and Negoti-
and Madison Ave., N.Y. National
Commonwealth Ave., Boston, Mass.
Manor where they visit with the
used to raise money for the
exploration of the communication
ation of Federal Grants and Contracts,
Council for Homemaker-Home Health
02215.
transportation program.
residents. One sixth grade class
between different age groups;
course. At 57 Park Plaza Hotel, Bos-
Aide Services, Inc., 67 Irving Place,
cleaned up part of the grounds and
"Neither Blessing nor Curse," which
ton, Mass. National Graduate Uni-
Apr. 6-May 25. Financial Management
6th Floor, N.Y., N.Y. 10003.
planted a garden.
Bicentennial Trays Help
discusses the elderly as seen by
versity, 3408 Wisconsin Ave. N.W.,
of a Health Care Facility, course. At
Last spring during a final get-
themselves; and "What Are Old
Washington, D.C. 20016.
Transport Seniors in
UCLA School of Public Health, Los
Apr. 28-30. Biomedical Role of Trace
together of the residents and stu-
People For?", which examines the
Northwestern Minnesota
Angeles, Calif. Health Sciences,
Elements in Aging, conference. At
dents, school principal John Marino
elderly as seen by society.
Apr. 20-23. Improving the Quality of
UCLA Extension, P.O. Box 24902,
Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, Fla.
Long-Term Care for Aging and Handi-
Other titles are: "No Preface to
Dr. Richard W. Neithamer, Eckerd
awarded certificates to the students
Trays commemorating the Ameri-
Los Angeles, Calif. 90024.
and a plaque to the volunteer resi-
Old Age," an examination of the
capped Persons, course. Boston, Mass.
College Gerontology Center, Eckerd
can Bicentennial serve two purposes
National Graduate University, 3408
dents of Little Flower Manor.
premise that no one knows what
Apr. 7. The Frail Elderly, symposium.
College, St. Petersburg, Fla. 33733.
in northwestern Minnesota.
Wisconsin Ave., N.W. Washington,
"old" is until he or she is old;
Paul Kleinsasser, Director of the
At Isabella Geriatric Center, New
D.C. 20016.
"From Resignation to Renewal,"
Tri-Valley Opportunity Council's
York City. The Center, 515 Audubon
Apr. 30. Annual Conference on Aging.
Quantity Recipes
new images of aging as seen in the
Ave., New York 10040.
In Belleville, III. Eugene M. Verdu,
Senior Citizens Transportation Pro-
Apr. 21-22. 33rd Annual Meeting,
Available Free to
growing awareness of older citizens
American Geriatrics Society. At Sham-
Director, Programs and Services for
gram in Crookston, says older per-
and their discovery of political
Older Persons, Belleville Area Col-
Nutrition Volunteers
Apr. 7-June 9. Hospital Accounting:
rock Hilton Hotel, Houston, Tex. The
sons in the area use the trays to
power; "Full Measure in Every
Principles of Third Party Reimburse-
Society, 10 Columbus Circle, New
lege, 200 South Third St., Belleville,
create interest in the Bicentennial,
Season," goals for the future; and
III. 62221.
ment, course. At UCLA Extension's
York, N.Y. 10019.
A special recipe file box contain-
and to generate additional money
"Long Life!," a summary of the new
Downtown Center, 1100 S. Grand
ing free recipes for quantity food
for their transportation program.
attitude toward aging and the aged.
Ave., Los Angeles. Health Sciences,
Apr. 21-23. Mid-Life Work and Learn-
Apr. 30. The First Wisconsin State Con-
preparation is available to volunteers
According to Mr. Kleinsasser, vol-
Film and video tape used in the
UCLA Extension, P.O. Box 24902,
ing Options, conference. At Don Ce
ference on In-Home Services. At the
delivering daily meals to the elderly
unteer transportation coordinators in
series has been drawn from material
Los Angeles, Calif. 90024.
Sar Resort Hotel, St. Petersburg Beach,
Marriott Inn, Brookfield, Wis. Betty
and homebound.
communities served by the transpor-
produced both in the U.S. and
Fla. Dr. Tom Rich, Director, Aging
Regan, Community Health, University
The quantity recipes have been
tation program in Polk, Norman,
abroad for television viewing, edu-
Apr. 8. A Range of Therapeutic Mo-
Studies Program, SOC 290, University
of Wisconsin-Extension, 926 North
tested by major food companies, as-
Marshall, Pennington, and Red Lake
cational purposes, and entertain-
dalities for the Institutionalized Pa-
of South Florida, Tampa 33620.
Sixth St., Milwaukee, Wis. 53203.
sociations and research institutes,
counties volunteered to distribute the
ment.
22
April 1976
23
AGING
May 3-7. The Administration of Nurs-
May 17-19. Anglo-American Conference
June 7-11. The Administration of Nurs-
Bldg. Cleo Tavani, Executive Direc-
Oct. 13-17. Senior Citizens-Meet Re-
rector, Federal Council on the Aging,
ing Homes and Extended Care Facili-
on Care of the Elderly. At the Institute
ing Homes and Extended Care Facili-
tor, Federal Council on the Aging,
searchers on Aging, 29th Annual Sci-
Donohoe Bldg., 400-6th St., S.W.,
ties., course. At the School of Public
of Medicine, National Academy of
ties, course. At the School of Public
Donohoe Bldg., 400-6th St., S.W.,
entific Meeting of the Gerontological
Washington, D.C. 20201.
Health of the Faculty of Medicine,
Sciences. Mrs. J. Surdi, Institute of
Health of the Faculty of Medicine,
Washington, D.C. 20201.
Society. At New York Hilton Hotel,
Columbia University, N.Y. Course
Medicine, National Academy of Sci-
Columbia University, N.Y. Course
Avenue of the Americas and 53rd St.,
NOTE: Conference Calendar items
Coordinator, Nursing Home Adminis-
ences, 2101 Constitution Ave., N.W.,
Coordinator, Nursing Home Adminis-
N.Y. The Society, 1 Dupont Circle,
should be addressed to Editor, AGING
stration, Columbia University, Pro-
Washington, D.C. 20418.
tration, Columbia University, Program
Oct. 6-8. Congress of the Hungarian
Washington, D.C. 20036.
Magazine, Administration on Aging,
gram of Continuing Education, 21
of Continuing Education, 21 Audubon
Gerontological Association with Inter-
U.S. Department of Health, Education,
Audubon Ave., Suite 305, New York,
May 17-June 4. Adult Medical-Surgical
Ave., Suite 305, New York, N.Y.
national Participation. Budapest, Hun-
Nov. 30-Dec. 2. Quarterly Meeting, Fed-
and Welfare, Washington, D.C. 20201,
N.Y. 10032.
Oncology Nursing, course. At Boston
10032.
gary. A. Rubanyi, Kongressburo, H-
eral Council on the Aging. At Dono-
and must be received six weeks prior to
University School of Nursing, Depart-
1361 Budapest, P.O.B. 32, Hungary.
hoe Bldg. Cleo Tavani, Executive Di-
the issue month in which they appear.
May 6-8. The Aged Patient: Neurologi-
ment of Continuing Education. Oncol-
June 7-14. Hawaii Governor's Bicenten-
cal and Psychiatric Aspects, American
ogy Program, the University, 635
nial Conference on Aging: An Exami-
Geriatrics Society. At the Medical Col-
Commonwealth Ave., Boston, Mass.
nation of Local, National and Interna-
lege of Georgia, Augusta, Ga. Divi-
02215.
tional Problems and Potentials. At
sion of Continuing Education, Medical
Sheraton-Waikiki Hotel, Honolulu,
News of State and
College of Georgia, Augusta, Ga.
May 18-20. Administration and Negoti-
Hawaii. Mrs. Shimeji Kanazawa, Di-
30902.
ation of Federal Grants and Contracts,
rector, 1976 Conference, Hawaii State
course. At Sheraton-Chicago Hotel,
Commission on Aging, 1149 Bethel
Area Agencies
May 10. Later Life: Ministry in a Cre-
Chicago, III. National Graduate Uni-
St., Rm 311, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813,
ative Journey, conference. At the Uni-
versity, 3408 Wisconsin Ave. N.W.,
or HGBCA Center, Travel Consult-
versity of Michigan, Towsley Center
Washington, D.C. 20016.
ants, Inc., 1025 Connecticut Ave.,
for Continuing Medical Education,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036.
Ann Arbor. Office of Intramural Edu-
May 18-21. Improving the Quality of
Era, newsletter of the California
velop two Community Care Or-
health, homemaker, chore, and nu-
cation, Towsley Center for Continuing
Long-Term Care for Aging and Handi-
Medical Education, University of
June 8-11. First International Congress
Office on Aging, reports that vol-
ganizations (CCO's) to help the
trition services.
capped Persons, course. Chicago, III.
on Menopause, American Geriatrics
unteers are being recruited in Los
elderly remain in their own homes.
The Community Development
Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich. 48109.
National Graduate University, 3408
Wisconsin Ave., N.W., Washington,
Society. At La Grande Motte, near
Angeles County to serve with
Services may include home health
Agency in New London will be
May 10. New Options for Older Texans
Montpellier, France. Dr. Robert B.
HALO.
aids such as visiting nurses, home-
using another $30,000 to renovate
D.C. 20016.
HALO (Happiness, Activity,
delivered meals, transportation, and
-A Day of Reporting, workshop. At
Greenblatt, Medical College of Geor-
a senior center to house the pro-
Joe Thompson Conference Center,
May 19-21. Aging Man and His World,
gia, Augusta, Ga. 30902, or Secretary
Love, and Outreach) volunteers
homemaker services, such as shop-
gram.
General, Dr. Michel Albeaux-Fernet
serve in nursing and convalescent
ping, light housekeeping, or minor
Services will be provided through
Corner of 26th and Red River Sts.,
23rd Annual Congress of the National
Austin, Tex. The Governor's Commit-
at Le Puits Carre, Blvd. du Plan-des-
centers. The program was begun in
home repairs.
contracts with community agencies.
Geriatrics Society. In Montreal, Cana-
Abeilles, 06290 St. Jean Cap Ferrat,
1974 to assist in recreational, social,
It is hoped that the CCO's will
The Family Service Society has
tee on Aging, Research Utilization
da. Thomas J. Bergen, Executive Di-
Program, P.O. Box 12786, Capitol
rector, the Society, Centre Bldg., 212
France.
and intellectual stimulation in facili-
reduce the growing use of nursing
entered into a contract with the
ties. To date 400 volunteers have
homes. An inter-departmental task
Commuinty Development Agency
Station, Austin, Tex. 78711.
W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, Wis.
June 14-25. Seventh Faculty Institute on
been placed. Volunteers recruited by
force will review CCO site applica-
to furnish additional homemaker
53203.
Medical Care. At the University of
the Los Angeles Department of
tions and select one urban-rural re-
services and initiate chore services.
May 10-11. Indiana Senior Citizens As-
May 20-22. Daycare for Older Adults:
Michigan, Ann Arbor. Barbara Black,
Public Social Services are trained for
sociation Conference, Indianapolis,
gion and one predominantly rural
The Visiting Nurse Association has
Ind. Elizabeth Strain, Public Relations
The New Modality, conference. At
Department of Medical Care Organiza-
service by the County Parks and
area for the project. The urban-rural
received a contract to establish
Coordinator, Central Indiana Council
Center for the Study of Aging and
tion, M3150, School of Public Health,
Recreation Department and County
region must have at least 50,000
health screening clinics at the senior
Human Development, Duke Univer-
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor,
schools.
on Aging, Inc., 155 E. Market St.,
population with one city of at least
center and in elderly housing. The
Suite 802, Indianapolis, Ind. 46204.
sity, Durham, N.C. Dorothy Heyman,
Mich. 48104.
Information is available from
20,000. The rural site must have a
Title VII nutrition program has con-
Executive Secretary, Box 3003, Duke
Mrs. Charles, 2615 S. Grand Ave.,
minimum population of 18,000 with
tracted through Community Devel-
May 10-14. Overview Course in Oncol-
University Medical Center, Durham,
June 20-July 9. The Older Person and
Los Angeles.
at least one city of 10,000.
opment to subsidize the nutrition site
ogy Nursing. At Boston University
N.C. 27710.
Alcohol Use, course. At the New
The State Department of Health
Priority will be given to communi-
at the center for an additional 20
School of Nursing, Department of
Brunswick Campus of Rutgers Uni-
has published a new Health Facilities
ties which have demonstrated con-
meals a day.
Continuing Education, Oncology Pro-
May 27-28. Quarterly Meeting, Federal
versity. Miss Linda Allen, Secretary,
Directory listing State licensed hos-
cern for the elderly by providing
Recreation, escort, and trans-
gram, the University, 635 Common-
Council on the Aging. At Donohoe
Summer School of Alcohol Studies,
pitals, nursing homes, and commu-
some needed services.
portation services are being ad-
wealth Ave., Boston, Mass. 02215.
Bldg. Cleo Tavani, Executive Direc-
Rutgers University, New Brunswick,
nity clinics in California.
Prospective clients, who must be
ministered by the city of New
tor, Federal Council on the Aging,
N.J. 08903.
The Directory is organized by
eligible for Medicaid, will be screen-
London through the Recreation
May 12. The Team Approach to Nursing
Donohoe Bldg., 400-6th St., S.W.,
county and contains the name and
ed to determine the service they
Department.
Home Administration, workshop. At
Washington, D.C. 20201.
July 7-Aug. 23. Graduate Oncology
address of the facility and licensee,
need to return to or remain in their
the Frederic D. Zeman Center for In-
Course in Nursing. At Boston Univer-
license limitations, number of beds
own homes. The CCO's will track
struction of the Jewish Home and
June 1-4. Congress of the International
sity School of Nursing, the University,
approved for Medicare and Medi-
client's progress to determine if any
The Hawaii State Commission on
Hospital for Aged, N.Y. Ms. Verna
Senior Citizens' Association. Belgrade,
Office of the Registrar, 881 Common-
Cal, type of license, accreditation,
service change is necessary.
Aging reports Gov. George R.
Gillis, Administrator's Program Co-
Yugoslavia. Mrs. Marjorie Borchardt,
wealth Ave., Boston, Mass. 02215.
and capacity.
Ariyoshi has invited representatives
ordinator, The Jewish Home and Hos-
President, ISCA, 11753 Wilshire
Copies are available for $5.80
of the other States, Pacific Rim
pital for Aged, 120 West 106th St.,
Blvd., Los Angeles, Calif. 90025.
July 18-24. XVIIIth International Con-
payable to the State of California
A comprehensive senior program
countries, and select Asian countries
New York, N.Y. 10025.
ference of the International Council
from State Office of Procurement,
has been established by New Lon-
to attend The 1976 Governor's Bi-
June 1-4. General Assembly and Con-
on Social Welfare, San Juan, Puerto
Publications Section, P. O. Box
don, Connecticut through $100,000
centennial Conference on Aging: An
May 13-16. National Conference on
gress of European Federation for the
Rico. ICSW, 345 East 46th St., Rm.
20191, Sacramento.
in community development funding
Examination of Local, National and
Ageing. At Australian National Uni-
Welfare of the Elderly. Belgrade, Yu-
1016, New York, N.Y. 10017.
and $14,000 in Title III funds pro-
International Problems and Poten-
versity, Canberra. Australian Council
goslavia. Secretariat, EURAG, Moser-
vided by the Eastern Connecticut
tials.
on the Ageing, G.P.O. Box 1817Q,
hofgasse, 47 Part., A-8010 Graz,
Sept. 14-15. Quarterly Meeting, Federal
The Colorado State Department
Area Agency on Aging. The pro-
Over 1,000 delegates are expected
Melbourne, Vic. 3001, Australia.
Austria.
Council on the Aging. At Donohoe
of Social Services is planning to de-
gram includes escort, transportation,
to attend the conference which will
24
AGING
April 1976
25
receive both rent assistance and
Mr. Tinder, who was appointed
be held at the Sheraton Waikiki in
back. Reductions took place in
Seniors within the 200 square
renter tax rebates in the same year.
Commissioner of the Department of
Honolulu June 7-14.
dental, hospital inpatient, pharmacy,
mile Altura-Lewiston school district
Expansion of home services to
The Department of Revenue can
Welfare in January 1975, had served
The conference will stress contri-
podiatry, vision care, transportation,
call one of the dispatchers a day or
the elderly has resulted from $1
assist the elderly in determining
the agency as administrative assist-
butions of older people to society
medical supplies, and durable equip-
two in advance to arrange transpor-
million appropriated to the Ohio
whether the assistance claim or
ant to the former Welfare Commis-
and explore ways the elderly may be
ment programs.
tation to doctor and legal appoint-
Commission on Aging by the Gen-
property tax refund is higher.
sioner and Commission on Aging
used as a continuing resource. It
Adults will only be reimbursed for
ments.
eral Assembly. By using these funds
member Edwin F. Flowers.
also hopes to provide older persons,
emergency dental care, such as
Begun last October, the program
to match Federal money under
The Commission on Aging also
decision makers, service providers,
toothaches and abscesses. Dentures,
is aimed at older persons unable to
Title XX of the Social Security Act,
According to James D. Dubs,
reports that elementary school chil-
professionals, industry, and youth
partial plates, and checkups are not
use the area's regularly scheduled
State funds can be tripled.
Deputy Director of the South Caro-
dren in Harrison, Doddridge, and
with increased awareness of the na-
covered.
senior citizen bus sponsored by the
Under approved regulations, a
lina Commission on Aging, a grant
Taylor Counties now have foster
tional and international problems of
Reimbursement for over-the-
Southeastern Minnesota Citizens'
minimum of $4,000 in State funds
of $193,200 has been awarded the
grandparents to help them learn.
the aged from a multi-ethnic and
counter drugs such as insulin is
Action Council.
will be allocated to each Ohio
Commission by the Economic De-
The Commission's Foster Grand-
cultural viewpoint.
permitted but items such as aspirin
"Some people have a disability
county. This can result in an addi-
velopment Administration.
parent Program, federally funded by
The Legislature has funded
were dropped. In addition, patients,
and can't use the SEMCAC bus and
tional $12,000 available from Title
Funds will provide wages and
ACTION, has placed 32 foster
"scholarship registrations" for 50
except those in nursing homes and
some have appointments that don't
XX money.
elderly from Oahu and 50 from the
The Commission ruled that these
fringe benefits for 30 persons to
grandparents in elementary schools
hospitals will pay 50¢ for each
coincide with the bus schedule,"
in the three counties.
neighboring islands to attend the
prescription drug they order.
says Mrs. Woll. She notes one senior
funds should be used for home-
work in aging programs around the
State as outreach workers, drivers,
According to Mrs. Zerbie Swain,
Conference. Selection will be made
Other changes include:
citizen who used the program re-
maker and home health care pro-
and in similar slots.
by the area agencies on aging using
Stopping payment of hospital bills
marked she had never made a
project director, the concept of
grams, chore service, home-deliver-
criteria provided by the Bicentennial
doctor's appointment previously be-
Assignment of the funds is being
having elderly people work with
for patients found to no longer re-
ed meals, or day care for the elderly.
Funds have been allocated to the
handled by the Commission as ap-
children in the classroom was en-
Conference Steering Committee.
quire such care and transferring
cause she didn't know how she
proved at its December 1975 meet-
A series of pre-conference meet-
would get there.
thusiastically adopted by the three
them to nursing homes.
14 area agencies on aging which are
ings will be held to present local
Dispatchers match riders with
ing.
boards of education.
Eliminating visits to podiatrists
working in cooperation with county
issues and problems of Hawaii's
except for patients with diabetes and
volunteer drivers, sending more than
welfare departments. The county
"Placing grandparents in the
schools will add another dimension
multi-racial older population.
vascular diseases.
one rider with a driver whenever
units will contract with provider
Providing eye examinations and
they can.
agencies for service programs using
The West Virginia Commission
to the Foster Grandparent Pro-
glasses for adults only every two
Eleven senior citizens got rides
the funds.
on Aging has announced the elec-
gram," said Mrs. Swain. "Although
A service to provide home repair
years. Repair and replacement of
from volunteer drivers during the
Due to a $2 million appropriation
tion of Welfare Commissioner
our use of foster grandparents in
and maintenance for persons 60+ is
glasses are no longer covered.
project's first month. The drivers
by the Ohio General Assembly for
Thomas R. Tinder as Commission
elementary schools is quite new, the
being financed by a $14,250 grant
Doctors and nurses must contact
donated 17 hours of their time and
the elderly bus fare assistance pro-
Chairman. He succeeds Employment
response from the schools has been
from the Central Indiana Council
the State health department for ap-
drove a total of 230 miles.
gram, riders 65+ will not pay more
Security Commissioner Clement R.
rewarding. One teacher reported the
on Aging for a six-month period.
proval of ambulance transportation
than half fare during all service
Bassett who has filled the post the
interest of the students in their class
The project was inaugurated Dec.
for non-ambulatory and non-emer-
hours. In smaller communities, fares
past two years.
assignment improved 100 percent.
1 by Community Interfaith Housing,
gency patients from a residence to
must be reduced at least 10c.
Mr. Tinder described his respons-
The children wanted to do well to
a non-profit corporation established
a hospital outpatient department.
The Missouri Association for
The $2 million was distributed by
ibilities with the Department of Wel-
please the grandparent."
by churches in Indianapolis to pro-
Items such as crutches and wheel-
the Ohio Transportation Depart-
fare and the Commission as "a
The program provides the foster
Social Welfare was awarded Title
vide housing and related services for
chairs which are necessary to main-
IV-A Older Americans Act funds
ment to 52 transit firms and will
natural partnership that can only
grandparent the oportunity to share
persons of limited income.
tain people in their own homes are
by the Missouri Office of Aging for
cover a 58-week period.
serve to improve and enrich the lives
his or her talents and experiences
According to John W. Riggle,
still provided, but convenience items
of our older citizens regardless of
with the children while helping meet
Central Indiana Council on Aging
such as hand rails have been
publication of the book Higher
their economic position.'
special needs of students identified
Education and the Elder Missourian.
Executive Director, an estimated
dropped.
He explained:
by the schools. Mrs. Swain reports
150,000 senior citizens in Marion
The Maryland Office on Aging
The report explores the response
The Oregon State Program on
"The role of the Commission is
that while a class was studying the
County owning their own homes
has expressed concern and opposi-
of the State's institutions of higher
Aging announces that some 6,000
to strengthen the total spectrum of
methods of teaching prevalent 50
could be eligible for the home re-
tion to these regulations.
education to the older population.
older Oregonians are entitled to
services available to West Virginia's
years ago, a foster grandmother
It presents results of a survey of
pair service.
monthly rental assistance payments
senior citizens by coordinating and
brought to class the McGuffy Reader
Community Interfaith Housing
activities on 76 campuses concerning
as a result of action on the part of
supplementing the patchwork of
she had once used. Mrs. Swain also
President, Joseph Viehmann, said
education for older adults, course
the 1975 legislature.
services now provided by Federal,
notes that two first grade classes
The Minnesota Governor's Citi-
the grant will pay up to 90% of
content in gerontology, services used
Individuals 65 and over with an
State and local agencies such as
making bicentennial quilts are being
the labor cost but does not cover
zens Council on Aging reports that
by seniors, use of retirees' talents,
annual income of less than $3,000
ours.
taught to quilt by foster grand-
the cost of materials.
a volunteer driver program funded
and proposed projects in geron-
who have lived in Oregon more than
"In charting the Commission's
mothers.
No means test is required to use
by school district # 857 in the
tology. The publication also lists a
six months and are paying a gross
future course, I would hope we could
the service but those helped will be
Altura-Lewiston area is easing trans-
description of three post-secondary
The grandparents now working
rent over 60% of their income are
improve and expand upon this
informed of the cost of assistance
programs for training and research
with the elementary students had
portation problems for senior citi-
eligible. Calculation of gross rent
integration of individual effort to
been assigned to the Industrial
provided should they be able to
zens and disabled persons.
in gerontology not falling into the
includes all utility bills other than
assure an equitable balance of pro-
Home for Girls at Salem and the
make a contribution.
According to Clara Woll, Retired
category of a degree-granting institu-
telephone bills.
grams for our senior citizens, as well
Senior Volunteer Program director
tion, but important to the field of
Industrial Home for Boys at Prunty-
Community Interfaith Housing
The rent supplement program
as focus significant attention on the
also plans to employ an older per-
and supervisor of the new project,
gerontology.
town. The Foster Grandparent Pro-
provides rent aid equal to the dif-
many problems of low-income
gram also operates at the Children's
son for outreach work to assist in
the school district's community
Project Coordinator Maureen
ference between 60% of income and
elderly who require our assistance."
school advisory council voted
Lebel reports that technical and
Home in Elkins and the City-Wide
obtaining financing for materials and
the total amount of rent and utility
Others elected by the Commission
Improvement Council's Headstart
act as an information and referral
$1,500 in community service funds
financial assistance were offered to
bills. This assistance can not exceed
to fill top positions include the
Program at the Kennedy Center in
for senior transportation aid.
each accredited college or university
established maximum annual rental
agent.
Reverend Arnold Belcher and Mrs.
The grant pays for two dispatch-
surveyed to stimulate growth in the
Charleston. There are approximately
assistance levels.
Marion McQuade, re-elected Vice
area of gerontology. A 28-member
60 foster grandparents participating
ers-one in Lewiston and one in
An older person filing for the
Chairman and Secretary-Treasurer,
in the Commission's program around
Effective Jan. 1 seven of Mary-
Altura-and mileage for 28 volun-
task force providing assistance to
renter assistance program can not
respectively.
the State.
land's Medicaid services were cut
teers.
the schools was also convened.
April 1976
27
26
AGING
coup the proceeds of such checks.
Policy Analysis, National League of
The proposed regulations would:
Issuance of substitute checks if
Cities, and Professor of Public Ad-
Increase from $200 to $230
the original checks have not been
ministration at Howard University,
monthly the earnings guide for de-
negotiated because, for example,
the study group met twice monthly
termining when work is substantial
they were mutilated or destroyed.
from June through December. All
gainful activity. When a person
From June 1973 to June 1974,
meetings were open to the public.
works for average monthly earnings
News of Federal Agencies
there were 433 complaints alleging
Other members of the study group
greater than $230, he ordinarily
forgery of Medicare checks. The
include: Charline J. Birkins, Asso-
would be considered able to engage
allegations were sustained in 179
ciate Director, Office of Policy, Divi-
in substantial gainful activity.
instances, and found to be erroneous
sion of Public Welfare, Colorado
Provide that if a person's earn-
in 254.
Department of Social Services; Wes-
ings average between $150 and
HEW Announces Increase
pected to increase from about $4.7
the year it was made, there will be
ley J. Hjornevik, Deputy Commis-
$230 per month, the nature of the
billion to $5.7 billion the following
no recovery from the beneficiary if
Social Security Announces
sioner for Management, Texas State
person's work activities and medical
In Medicare Premium
he was without fault-waiver will
Study Completed on SSI
Department of Public Welfare; Dr.
year. The factors involved include
evidence relating to his condition
the projected increase in physicians'
be automatic. Also, a provider,
Herbert Maisel, Director of the
will be considered in determining
The Social Security Administra-
fees recognized by Medicare, in-
physician, or supplier responsible
The Social Security Administra-
Academic Computation Center at
whether the individual is eligible for
tion reports that the basic premium
creases in the number of services
for refunding such an incorrect pay-
tion has announced that a report by
Georgetown University; and John
disability benefits. The current range
paid by Medicare beneficiaries for
rendered, a trend toward more ex-
ment may not send a bill for the
a special study group containing rec-
D. Young, Assistant Secretary and
is $130 to $200.
their supplementary medical insur-
pensive services, and an increase in
amount involved to a beneficiary
ommendations for administrative
Comptroller of HEW.
Increase from $130 to $150 a
ance coverage will increase from
the cost and use of hospital out-
who was without fault. These two
and legislative improvements in the
$6.70 to $7.20 a month for the 12-
month the amount of average
month period beginning in July.
patient services.
provisions recognize that a Medi-
Supplemental Security Income pro-
Increased Earnings Limit
monthly earnings that ordinarily
care beneficiary ordinarily is not in a
gram has been completed.
Asked for S.S. Recipients
would not be considered "substan-
The supplementary medical in-
position to know whether medical
The report lists 30 major recom-
surance program, also known as Part
HEW Limits Liability for
mendations in the areas of benefit
tial gainful activity."
services furnished him are covered
HEW has proposed regulations
B, complements the basic hospital
Incorrect Medicare Payments
under the program.
levels, eligibility, quality of per-
increasing the dollar amounts peo-
The proposed regulations also
insurance part of Medicare by help-
formance, program planning, staff-
ple can earn and still be considered
provide for a systematic adjustment
ing to pay physicians' bills and other
HEW has published regulations
HEW Proposes New
ing, training, district office opera-
disabled for purposes of receiving
of these earnings guidelines on the
medical expenses in and out of the
limiting the liability of physicians,
basis of yearly changes in the aver-
hospital. Costs are shared by the
other providers of services, and
Rules For SSI Recipients
tions, and data processing systems.
social security and supplemental se-
Commissioner of Social Security,
curity income disability checks.
age taxable earnings of all persons
participants and the Federal Gov-
Medicare beneficiaries for incorrect
HEW has proposed regulations
James B. Cardwell, said copies of
The proposed regulations raise
reported under the Nation's social
ernment.
Medicare payments, especially those
permitting supplemental security
the study group report have been
the monthly earnings guidelines to
security system.
About 24.4 million persons will
found over three years after the
income recipients to request ter-
submitted to HEW Secretary David
be used by the Social Security Ad-
These guides apply only to dis-
be enrolled in the supplementary
year they were made.
mination of benefits if they qualify
Mathews and interested Congres-
ministration in 1976 to determine
ab'ed claimants and beneficíaries
medical insurance part of Medicare
The regulations implement pro-
for other benefits which are more
sional committees.
when work by a disabled beneficiary
under social security and supple-
in the coming fiscal year, including
visions of the 1972 Social Security
advantageous to them.
The study group was appointed
is considered "substantial gainful ac-
mental security income. Earnings
2.2 million disabled persons under
Amendments. They specify that a
Present regulations do not specify
by Mr. Cardwell and former HEW
tivity." Under the law, a person able
limitations for retired workers, sur-
65.
Medicare provider, physician, or
how a recipient can ask for volun-
Secretary Caspar W. Weinberger.
to perform substantial gainful activ-
vivors, or dependents are set by
HEW Secretary David Mathews
supplier of Medicare items who was
tary termination of benefits, except
Under the chairmanship of Philip J.
ity is ineligible to receive monthly
other provisions in the social secu-
is required by law to review the cost
incorrectly paid through no fault of
by withdrawal of the initial claim,
Rutledge, Director of the Office of
disability benefits.
rity law.
of the supplementary medical in-
his own will not be required to re-
which would require him to repay
surance program and set a premium
fund the incorrect payment.
rate which, together with the Federal
Also, an incorrectly paid provider,
all the money previously paid.
physician, or supplier will be
Another proposed change in pres-
contribution, is estimated as suffici-
deemed to have been without fault,
ent regulations would give the Social
ent to cover all expenditures in-
in the absence of contrary evidence,
Security Administration the author-
curred in the 12 months beginning
if the payment was determined to
ity to deny or suspend eligibility for
Aging Around the World
July 1, 1976.
be incorrect later than the third year
supplemental security income if the
The law also requires that any
applicant or recipient refuses to
increase in the premium amount
after the year it was made.
furnish information or fails to com-
July 1 must be limited to the per-
In these situations, responsibility
centage by which social security
for the incorrect. payment shifts
ply with a request to determine
cash benefits increased in 1975.
from the provider, physician, or
initial or continuing eligibility.
Since its social security system
such as personal loans during the
tion and administration of legisla-
Since social security benefits rose
supplier to the beneficiary. However,
does not provide adequate retire-
worker's employment.
tion on care of the elderly, voluntary
by 8% in June 1975, the medical
the Social Security Administration
HEW Proposes Rules
ment income, Brazil is experiment-
Incentives to the employer to
aid programs, the integration of the
insurance premium can increase by
will waive recovery of incorrect pay-
Regarding Medicare Checks
ing with the concept of social secu-
adopt this system are tax deductions
aged in society, and special pro-
no more than 8%.
ments from beneficiaries who were
HEW has proposed regulations
rity foundations set up within each
for 30% of the monies contributed
grams to help them remain in their
If there were not an 8% limit on
without fault, if recovery would
firm by the employer, but subject
to the foundation, and improved
own homes.
the premium increase, rising medi-
cause the beneficiary economic hard-
covering lost, stolen, or forged Medi-
to public scrutiny.
worker morale, reflected in increased
Lectures, discussions, and visits
cal costs would require an "actuari-
ship, deprive him of necessary medi-
care checks.
Funds to the foundation are
productivity and less instability.*
to institutions, protected housing
ally adequate" premium of $10.70
cal care, or be unfair for other
The regulations provide for:
Issuance of new checks by the
jointly contributed by employers
and housing colectives will be in-
a month, or $3.50 more than the
reasons.
Social Security Administration's
and employees and earn a minimum
cluded.
premium that will actually be
The new regulations contain two
Medicare fiscal intermediaries and
of 6% interest and monetary ad-
An English language seminar on
Information is available from the
charged. The "actuarially adequate"
additional provisions limiting the
carriers if the original checks have
justments. The funds will be used
Danish programs for the aged will
DET DANSKE SELSKAB (The
premium represents a 50% share of
liability of beneficiaries where an in-
correct payment has been made. If
been lost or stolen and paid to un-
to supplement the social security
be conducted Aug. 22-28 in Glad-
Danish Institute), Kultorvet 2, DK-
the costs of aged participants.
system and assure higher pensions
saxe, Denmark.
1175 Copenhagen K, Denmark.
The cost of the supplementary
a payment is determined to be in-
authorized persons.
but they will also facilitate benefits
The seminar will cover the opera-
correct later than the third year after
Reclamation proceedings to re-
medical insurance program is ex-
AGING
April 1976
29
28
The Federal Republic Sports
of regional authorities responsible
services are being provided for
consistently, the frequency of
League of Germany has conducted
for passing local laws and adminis-
whites, with organization and co-
tional Interfaith Coalition on
visits to these friends did not
of mini-troops involved in camp-
a survey among facilities for the
tering social services, there has been
ordination, making possible ameni-
Aging. He notes:
change significantly with either
ing, arts and crafts, and commu-
elderly which indicates that sports
a renewal of activity in programs
ties and facilities. And in Govern-
age or length of residence in skid
"To our knowledge, this is the first
nity service projects; creation of
and physical fitness classes are in-
serving the aging, particularly home
ment and semi-government sectors,
row. The proportion of respon-
interfaith congregational guide-
"crisis chore centers" to help dis-
creasingly popular.
support services. The programs,
local authorities have and are pro-
One-third of the 322 facilities
while quite successful, are serving
viding services to the white aged in
dents with various concepts of
book to be developed with the
abled seniors; locating elderly in
friendship remained stable over
purpose of helping congregations
need of health care; and visits to
were already providing sports ac-
only a small proportion of those in
their areas of jurisdiction. Should
the years.
of all faiths to more effectively
nursing and convalescent homes.
tivities. However, only 1.9% of the
need and have been limited to the
not such services be extended to all
men in institutions expressed an in-
northern and central areas of Italy.
race groups without colour being
It was also found that although
minister with aging persons. It is
terest in sports compared to 28.8%
the criterion?" the report asks.*
the number of isolated men in-
not only endorsed by its publish-
Some authorities have passed
creased in older age, the propor-
ers, but also has been strongly
Death and Dying
of the women. In the 192 evening
laws providing supplemental income
classes being offered only one par-
benefits while others have planned
tion of these friendless men desir-
recommended by the National
Geriatrics. Monthly. Lancet Publica-
ticipant in three was a man. As a
sheltered housing for the elderly in
ing friends or casual acquain-
Interfaith Coalition on Aging,
tions, 4015 W. 65th St., Minneapo-
In recent years, Switzerland has
representative of 28 national reli-
result League officials are consider-
their area.*
tances did not change with either
lis, Minn. 55435. $15 a year, $2 a
been experimenting with using
age or length of residence. These
gious bodies of the Protestant,
copy.
ing mounting a campaign to interest
homes for the aged as centers to
more men in sports activities.
provide services to the elderly in the
findings, Dr. Rooney declares,
Roman Catholic and Jewish
faiths."
The January issue features "Fo-
The survey also found that the
In its annual report the Durban
community. This is done by serving
run counter to the theory of loss
cusing on Some of the Ethical
most popular sports were gymnastics
Association for the Indian Aged
called for the elimination in the
meals or providing medical services
of need for meaningful personal
Problems Associated With Death
relationships after increased ex-
Hand-In-Hand: Cross-Age Interac-
(36%), hiking (16%), ball games
disparity in pensions between racial
in the home to nonresidents or by
posure to the life of an outcast.
tions. Girl Scouts of the U.S.A., 830
and Dying" by Peter McL. Black,
(13%), dancing (12%), and swim-
providing in-home services such as
ming (9%).*
groups in South Africa.
Third Ave., New York, N.Y. 10022.
M.D., who is a Joseph P. Ken-
Under the Social Pension Act
home-delivered meals or laundry
This report also concludes that
40 pp. illus.
nedy, Jr., fellow in medicine, law,
services. In this way, older people
the theory of disaffiliation due to
and ethics at the Center for Bio-
white persons are guaranteed a pen-
As a result of new legislation
sion if they meet the eligibility re-
can become acquainted with the
aging is true only in that personal
Produced by Girl Scouts of the
ethics, Kennedy Institute, Wash-
home and reduce fears of eventually
intimacy and assisting close
U.S.A., this is a report on the ac-
ington, D.C.
minimum pension benefits in Italy
quirements, while pensions are con-
have been linked to minimum in-
sidered a privilege for nonwhite
entering such a facility. Similarly,
friends declines with age, but
tivities of the seven Girl Scout
Dr. Black makes the point that
residents benefit by being exposed
these factors are not associated
councils participating in the Hand-
dustrial wages; pension benefits
groups, reports the International
medicine has traditionally con-
to the greater community.*
with length of residence.
in-Hand Cross-Age Interactions
above this minimum are automatic-
Federation on Ageing.
cerned itself with caring for dying
project established in 1974.
ally correlated with the cost of living
The Association's annual report
patients. Because of dramatic
index and with variations in real
also calls for increased social serv-
Community Involvement
Funded by the Administration on
medical successes in this century
wages through a quota system.
ices to the nonwhite aged.
The information for these articles was
Aging, the program is a national
however, he asserts that death has
Also in Italy, since the creation
"Throughout the country special
provided by Ageing International.
Aging Persons in the Community of
undertaking on the part of the
become a symbol of failure. This
Faith. By Donald F. Clingan. Don-
Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. to in-
attitude, the rise of the hospital
ald F. Clingan, P.O. Box 1986,
volve every Girl Scout council in
as an institution, and the deper-
Indianapolis, Ind. 46206. 70 pp. $1.
meaningful activities with senior
sonalization of the doctor-patient
bibliography. appen.
citizens.
relationship, the author con-
cludes, often result in the aban-
This guidebook was published
The booklet discusses accom-
donment of dying patients.
Publications
through the cooperation of the
plishments of the Santiam Girl
Institute on Religion and Aging
Scout Council of Oregon, the
To offset the general denial of the
in Indiana and the Indiana Com-
Southern Oakland Girl Scouts in
reality of death in this country,
mission on Aging. It seeks to
Lathrup Village, Michigan, Girl
Dr. Black believes many physi-
assist clergy and lay leaders cre-
Scouts of the Milwaukee Area,
cians have begun focusing atten-
ate a more effective ministry to,
the Glowing Embers Girl Scout
tion on the dying process. He per-
for, and with the aging, involving
ceptively observes:
General
Council in Kalamazoo, Michigan,
the elderly in both programs and
the San Francisco Bay Girl Scout
"With the renewed interest in the
Journal of Gerontology. Every other
ships with fellow residents as re-
a separate urban district which
planning.
Council, the Peninsula Waters
topic of death, it sometimes seems
month. Gerontological Society, 1
lationships lapse with former
serves as a specialized ghetto.
The book contains chapters on
Girl Scout Council in Marquette,
that the defense mechanism of
Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.
friends outside the area.
Dr. Rooney observes that data
the needs of the aging and the
Michigan, and the Northern Oak-
verbalization has replaced that of
20036. $30 a year, $6 a copy.
The author asserts that the skid
from interviews with 304 Phila-
role of congregations and com-
land County Girl Scout Council
denial. Physicians talk about
row population is well suited for
delphia skid row residents up-
munities in meeting those needs.
in Pontiac, Michigan.
death more; however, they may
The January issue contains
investigating the processes of
holds the theory of replacement
One section of the foreword is
not be caring for dying patients
"Friendship and Disaffiliation
Some of the councils' work with
withdrawal and reengagement as
of outside friends by friends
written by Walter H. Moeller,
more. Death is frightening for
Among the Skid Row Population"
the elderly has involved service
related both to aging and to es-
chosen from skid row. There was,
LLD of the Administration on
anyone to face, but especially for
by James F. Rooney, Ph.D.
trangement from the mainstream
Aging.
at nutrition sites, initiating an
physicians who strive so hard to
however, an eventual decline in
"adopted grandparent" program,
According to Dr. Rooney, the
of society. This is so, he notes,
the number of friends in skid row
preserve life. Some psychiatrists
The author, the Reverend Donald
winterizi ng older persons' houses,
have asserted that an unconscious
disaffiliation theory maintains that
first because over two-thirds of
after the age of 70 and after 20
Clingan, a delegate to the 1971
visiting their homes, assisting with
exposure to the life of an outcast
skid row residents are more than
years of residence in the area.
fear of death is a strong motivat-
White House Conference on
shopping, and starting a day-camp
inevitably leads to loss of rela-
50, and over one-third are more
Statistics indicate that the loss of
ing factor for persons who choose
Aging, is Executive Director of
program for seniors.
a medical career.
tionships and psychological with-
than 60. Second, skid row resi-
relationships was related to length
the Department of Services to
drawal. The replacement theory,
dents are disesteemed by the
of residence in skid row rather
Other achievements include the
Congregations, the National Be-
The author suggests further re-
on the other hand, holds that
dominant social order and con-
than to age. Findings also indi-
establishment of a "friendship cir-
nevolent Association of the Chris-
search may reduce the mystery
length of residence in skid row is
sidered outcasts. Along with this
cate that although the number of
tian Church, and is part-time
cle," in which girls telephone
connected with death but improv-
associated with forming friend-
role loss, they are segregated into
friends outside the area declined
older people to check on them
Executive Director of the Na-
ing the care of dying patients pri-
and offer their services; formation
marily depends on a change of
30
AGING
April 1976
31
and a bibliography of literature
The last section of the booklet
attitudes. He notes: "We must
presents supply-demand informa-
Harrisburg, Pa. 17120. 1975. 37 pp.
Concerning the primary reason
General data derived from this
convince ourselves that death is
in the field.
tion for some of the key occupa-
appen. No price listed.
for admission, 54% required pro-
sample survey were compared to
not defeat and that we can help
One of the significant facts re-
This study was undertaken to pro-
fessional medical care, while the
those obtained from national
tions in the industry. These data
patients face death by mobilizing
ported is that approximately 50
are presented on an economy-
vide data on the socio-economic
remainder required only minimal
sources. The study reveals that
nursing and family support and
million Americans are now en-
wide basis, in order to place nurs-
characteristics of the nursing
medical care or simply mainte-
comparisons of factors such as
by providing whatever other aid
rolled in retirement plans other
home population in Pennsylvania.
nance care.
ing home industry employment in
age, race, sex, and kinship ties
we can."
than social security. This total,
the over-all context of the econ-
The Governor's Office of the
indicate only minor differences.
With regard to the intensity of
The physician discusses some pro-
which includes persons enrolled
omy and provide some approxi-
Budget of Pennsylvania asserts in
care provided to the nursing home
found ethical dilemmas confront-
in profit sharing plans providing
mate estimate of potential man-
its executive summary:
population: 59% occupy skilled
Nutrition
ing those in the medical profes-
for retirement income, represents
power problems.
"In part, the data from this survey
care beds; 24.9% and 15.9%
sion today. These include the
nearly half the Nation's workers
propriety of euthanasia, the defi-
The projections of employment
will be used as a baseline against
occupy intermediate and residen-
To Your Health in Your Second
in commerce and industry, and
requirements in the report were
which to measure the impact of
tial care beds, respectively.
Fifty Years. By Barbara MacDonald
nition of death, and the validity
three-fourths of government civil-
of the "living will," in which the
developed as part of the Bureau
non-institutional programs for the
and Peggy M. Miller. National Dairy
ian personnel. Other statistics in
terminally-ill patient requests that
this publication for the end of
of Labor Statistics' program of
elderly.
From the survey's findings, the
Council, 6300 N. River Rd., Rose-
Governor's Office of the Budget
his life not be prolonged by artifi-
1974 include the following:
developing projections for the en-
"For example, programs which
mont, Ill. 8 pp. 20c a copy.
of Pennsylvania concludes that
cial or "heroic" measures. Al-
tire economy's industrial and oc-
emphasize non-institutional serv-
Some 145 million persons had
ice should lessen the demand for
the level of services offered by
Printed in large, easy-to-read
though "living wills" currently
cupational structure.
have no legal status, their recog-
social security credits, including
nursing homes is commensurate
or reduce the population currently
type, this booklet is a basic nutri-
Highlights of the brochure include
with the needs of the current
nition in law is being proposed
118 million who had been in the
occupying non-medical nursing
tion guide for the elderly. Gen-
by Maryland and several other
program long enough to qualify
the following:
home beds.
nursing home population. Data
eral in approach, it offers practi-
States.
for payments at retirement.
indicate, the Office of the Budget
cal tips on nutrients, food fads,
Employment in nursing homes
"In addition, this study was de-
maintains, that patients not re-
weight loss, food stamp programs,
Recent legal attempts to define
The number of Americans en-
is projected to increase from
signed to provide background
quiring expensive medically in-
menu planning at a moderate
death as cessation of cerebral
rolled in pension plans with life
583,000 in 1973 to 1,036,000 in
data with regard to what degree,
tensive care tend not to occupy
cost, and emergency shelf plan-
function rather than cardiac ac-
insurance companies reached 14.3
1985. Substantially more workers
if any, the elderly occupy high-
skilled nursing home beds. Simi-
ning.
tivity raise two crucial issues, Dr.
million.
are expected to be employed in
cost, skilled nursing home beds
larly, those needing only mainte-
Black maintains. He notes:
Pension reserves of the plans
nearly all occupations.
unnecessarily, due to the lack of
nance services tend to occupy
with life insurance companies
less intensive forms of mainte-
residential care beds, and the
Rehabilitation
"The first is equating death with
The projected growth of 78%
nance care."
same is true for intermediate, or
irreversible brain damage. This is
totaled $60.8 billion.
is faster than that expected in any
ICF, care beds.
Patient Care and Rehabilitation
really a value judgment, implying
segment of the health industry.
A summary of this report includes
that a man without a functional
the following statistics:
The report contends:
of Communication-Impaired Adults.
brain should be treated as we
Nursing Homes
By Ralph R. Leutenegger, Ph.D.
Most nursing home employees
"The inference can properly be
Charles C. Thomas, 301-327 E.
once treated a dead man. Phi-
are service workers. Two of these
Regarding race, the nursing
made that the reason for admis-
losophers, politicians, housewives,
Manpower Needs in the Field of
Lawrence Ave., Springfield, III. 178
Aging: The Nursing Home Industry.
occupational classifications, prac-
home population is overwhelm-
sion is a good indicator of serv-
pp. appen. $12.50.
and every other segment of so-
tical nurses and nursing aides,
AoA Occasional Papers in Geron-
ingly white; 93% are white, 5.9%
ices required.
ciety are involved in this kind of
and orderlies and attendants, ac-
tology. No. 1, DHEW Publication
are black, with other groups ac-
counted for over half of total em-
"A rather small disparity was
Dr. Leutenegger, of the Depart-
a change of meaning. The second
element is refining the criteria for
No. (OHD) 76-20082. 16 pp. No
counting for less than 1% of the
ployment in 1973.
found regarding skilled care-
ment of Speech Pathology and
brain death. Once death has been
price listed. Available from Superin-
total.
54.5% of the survey respondents
Audiology, University of Wiscon-
given the meaning brain death,
tendent of Documents, Washington,
For many occupations in nurs-
indicated the reason for admission
sin at Milwaukee, has done some
The average age at entry into
physicians and scientists can de-
D.C. 20402.
ing homes, annual openings re-
was a requirement for profes-
thorough research in this volume
a nursing home is 79.1 years. The
intended for those involved in the
velop criteria for telling what
This report was prepared by the
sulting from the need to replace
median age is 79.6 years. The
sional medical care, while 59.2%
rehabilitation and care of the
signs best indicate irreversible
workers who leave the labor force
youngest patient at entry was age
of the respondents were currently
Bureau of Labor Statistics to as-
brain damage."
are expected to be more signifi-
occupying skilled nursing home
aging. His report contains infor-
sist the Administration on Aging.
60, while the oldest was 102, a
range of 42 years.
beds, which is the most intensive
mation of value to professionals,
cant than those resulting from em-
The foreword notes:
ployment growth.
form of service. A similar varia-
paraprofessionals, and nonprofes-
sionals who come in contact with
Income
"The nursing home industry was
Females account for 73.3% of
tion is found with respect to resi-
selected for analysis for several
An analysis of employment
nursing home patients.
dential care. The mismatch in
the patient.
Pension Facts-1975. Institute of
reasons. It is the one identifiable
growth and the supply-demand
percentages is small enough that
The author is primarily concerned
Life Insurance, 277 Park Ave., New
industry that mainly serves the
situation for key occupations in
More than 90% of nursing
it is as likely to be due to misin-
with the patient's communication
York, N.Y. 10017. 52 pp. Single
the nursing home industry indi-
elderly, data are available on
home patients have a living blood
terpretation of the questionneire
skills and the role these skills play
copies free.
cates that nursing homes should
relative.
which to base an analysis, and
as an actual misplacement of pa-
in total rehabilitation and adjust-
public attention is currently fo-
be able to meet their manpower
tients. Therefore, generally speak-
ment. It was written, the preface
"Pension Facts" is an annual pub-
lication of the Institute of Life
cused on nursing homes."
needs provided that wages, bene-
Nursing home patients have
ing, it must be concluded that
fits, hours, etc., will be competi-
few resources; 15% have no in-
states, "to fill the need expressed
nursing home occupancy is con-
tive in the job market.
come, 65% have $2,000 or less
by directors of in-service training
Insurance intended as a reference
The report begins with a discus-
sistent with requirements for
programs for information appro-
guide.
income, 33% have no assets, and
sion of the growth of the nursing
care."
56% have no more than $2,000
priate to the staffs in their hospi-
This edition reviews the history
home industry over the last dec-
A Patient Profile: Nursing Homes in
Pennsylvania. Prepared by Division
in assets.
The report also concludes that
tals, nursing homes, or homes for
of pensions in the United States,
ade, followed by an examination
summarizes provisions of the Em-
of Program Planning and Evalua-
some 40% of the nursing home
the aged."
of the current employment and
tion, Office of the Budget, Com-
Length of residency figures re-
population (those in intermediate
Dr. Leutenegger discusses reha-
ployee Retirement Income Secu-
projected manpower requirements
veal that more than 83% of the
rity Act of 1974, and provides a
in the field for the 1972-85 pe-
monwealth of Pennsylvania, Gov-
and residential care situations)
bilitation teams which include the
glossary of pension terminology
riod.
ernor's Office, P.O. Box 1323,
patients have been in for five
could probably be maintained
patient and members of his or her
years or less.
outside an institutional setting.
family as team participants. He
AGING
32
April 1976
33
stresses the four professions most
enumerates both famous and
and Clubs: A National Resource.
Major Federal Legislative Proposals Affecting the Elderly Pending in Congress March 30, 1976
likely to deal directly with the pa-
little-known points of interest as
Mr. Pothier notes that, contrary
tient on a daily basis in a reha-
well as organizations from which
to myths, a Lou Harris study re-
The proposals below were chosen by the AoA policy analysis staff for inclusion in this chart because (1) they contain provisions
bilitation or maintenance capacity
tourists can obtain information.
veals that centers tend to serve
aimed specifically at the elderly or (2) they may have impact on programs administered by the Administration on Aging, State and
-nursing, physical therapy, occu-
In the section on relocating, he
persons in lower economic brack-
local aging agencies, and private organizations which work with older Americans.
pational therapy, and speech
examines retirement communities,
ets and have appeal for older per-
pathology and audiology.
mentioning the Sun City Centers
sons with college backgrounds.
RECONCILING
in Arizona, California, and Flor-
Chapter headings include:
He observes that a significant
PROPOSAL
HOUSE
SENATE
HOUSE-SENATE
BECAME
POSSIBLE
"Changes in Aging," "Nursing
ida, as well as addresses to write
number of blacks would like to
ACTION
ACTION
DIFFERENCES
LAW
NEXT STEP
for information about them.
Homes: Alternatives to Home
attend senior centers but find
and Hospital," "The Teamwork
them inaccessible and 46% of
In this chapter, the author eval-
Food Stamp Reform Bill (S. 3136). Among the
Trend in Health Care Delivery,"
those in rural areas not currently
uates the pros and cons of mov-
bill's stated purposes are "to reform the Food Stamp
"Hearing," "Stroke," and "Park-
ing to a foreign country, advising
attending want to but do not
Act of 1964 by improving the provisions relating to
insonism." Also included is a
know where centers are located.
that the mover consider adjust-
eligibility, simplifying administration, and tightening
chapter on the role, training and
ment to a new life style and cost
An NISC study identified over 20
accountability." Contains several provisions specifi-
Reported
Senate Floor
certification or licensing proce-
of living in making his decision.
specific health-related services
cally relating to the elderly
3-12-76
Consideration
dures required for the various
being provided at 1,474 separate
specialists who are most involved
Mr. Sunshine also explores em-
center sites. But, he notes with
Continuing appropriations (H.J.Res. 857). Would
in patient care practices. Individ-
ployment opportunities for the re-
concern, although these facilities
extend from Mar. 31 to Sept. 30, 1976 continuing
ual chapters present reference
tiree in business and government.
fulfill a crucial function, many are
appropriations for Federal programs like those author-
lists from which the author has
He lists national branch offices of
closing from lack of Federal sup-
ized by the Older Americans Act of 1965 for which
Passed
extracted ideas and quotations.
Mature Temps, a free employ-
port. Confusion is generated, he
no regular appropriations have been made. Does not
without
Action
His references, which are primar-
ment service specializing in secur-
asserts, when legislation is intro-
apply to Title VII nutrition program, for which
Passed
amendment
by
ily health-care oriented, are de-
ing temporary jobs for older peo-
duced with authorized amounts
appropriations have been made
3-16-76
3-25-76
President
rived from professional journals
ple, and suggests publications for
of money for day care centers, not
and non-professional magazines.
those interested in establishing
for senior centers.
Title XX Group Eligibility (H.R. 12455). Would
their own businesses. For retirees
desiring work with the Federal
Mr. Pothier concludes:
extend from Apr. 1 to Oct. 1, 1976, the period dur-
ing which recipients of services as of Sept. 30, 1975
Retirement
government, there is a description
"The NISC research discovered
under Titles IV-A and VI of the Social Security Act,
of the many programs available
that 18 percent of persons over
may continue to receive services under Title XX, of
Senate Finance
How to Enjoy Your Retirement. By
including Green Thumb, Green
65 attend Senior Centers, nearly
that Act, without individual determinations of eligibil-
Passed
committee
John Sunshine. AMACOM, A Divi-
Light, the Teacher Corps, Inter-
two million on a sufficiently regu-
ity
3-16-76
consideration
sion of American Management As-
national Executive Service Corps,
lar basis to consider themselves
sociations, 135 West 50th St., New
and others.
members. An additional seven
Senate &
Signed by
York, N.Y. 10020. 164 pp. 1974.
million would like to attend Sen-
Equal Credit Opportunity Act Amendments of 1975
Passed,
The appendices, which list orga-
House agreed
President
appen. $7.95.
ior Centers but often find none
(H.R. 6516). Prohibits discrimination on basis of age,
Passed
amended
to conference
3-23-76
nizations and suggested reading
Action by
available or accessible.
This publication is a welcome
race, etc. in extending credit
6-3-75
2-2-76
for retirees, modestly-priced mo-
report 3-9-76
(P.L. 94-239)
President
addition to the growing number
tels for the traveler, and sources
"The 4,870 Senior Centers serv-
of those about retirement. It is a
of information on recreational
ing 5.1 million persons 55 and
Weatherization Assistance Act of 1975 (H.R. 8650).
Meeting of House-
realistic assessment of the unique
vehicles, mobile homes, and mo-
older form a vast network whose
Includes proposal to authorize Federal grants for im-
Senate conference
challenges, benefits, and draw-
bile home parks, are especially
tremendous potential continues to
proving thermal efficiency of homes of low-income
Passed,
committee to
backs of retirement written with
helpful.
P.R.
be underestimated and undersup-
persons, particularly the low-income elderly and
Passed
amended
reconcile two
refreshing wit and candor.
ported. It's time to spread the
handicapped.
9-8-75
3-9-76
versions
news of our work to our sen-
The author was a traveling sales-
Senior Centers
man for 41 years, retired from
ators and congressmen
so we
his own business at the age of
can get our fair share of funding
Perspective on Aging. Every other
70, and moved to a retirement
and arrest the fragmentation that
month. The National Council on
community in Coral Gables, Fla.
goes on and on
aging
the Aging, 1828 L St., N.W., Wash-
No. 258
U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare
ington, D.C. 20036.
April 1976
Office of Human Development Administration on Aging
The scope of the book is broad,
covering the physical, social, and
Congressional Publications
CLARK TIBBITTS
The September/October issue
Subscriptions ($5.05 for a year, $1.30
DISCRIMINATION PROHIBITED-Title VI
psychological facets of retirement
Future Directions in Social Security.
Director
additional for foreign mailing except to
of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 states:
life. Mr. Sunshine discusses prac-
contained "National Institute of
National Clearinghouse on Aging
Hearing Before the Senate Special
Canada, or 70c for single copies) should
"No person in the United States shall on
Senior Centers Emphasizes Stand-
RAMON J. GEREMIA
be addressed to Superintendent of Docu-
the ground of race, color, or national
tical topics most retirees have in
Committee on Aging. Part 14. Los
Acting Chief
ments, Washington, D.C. 20402.
origin, be excluded from participation in,
common: loneliness and how to
ards for Programs" by William R.
Public Information Division
Angeles, Calif. May 16, 1975. 140
All other communications may be sent
be denied the benefits of, or be subjected
combat it; grandchildren; ways of
Pothier, Chairman of the National
JUNE B. FARIS
directly to Editor of Aging, Administration
to discrimination under any program or
pp. $1.60.
Editor
keeping busy, including hobbies;
Institute of Senior Centers.
PATRICIA ROWE
on Aging, U.S. Department of Health,
activity receiving Federal financial assist-
Part 15. Des Moines, Iowa. May 19,
Education, and Welfare, Washington, D.C.
ance. Therefore, the programs discussed
Editorial Assistant
managing and lending money;
20201.
in this publication, like every program or
The article includes some signifi-
Published since June 1951, Contents
staying physically fit; relocating;
1975. 85 pp. $1.10.
activity receiving financial assistance from
cant data. It discusses the growth
may be reproduced or reprinted without
Use of funds for printing this publi-
the Department of Health, Education, and
keeping active; travel; and volun-
permission, but credit to Aging is ap-
cation approved by the Director of the
Welfare, must be operated in compliance
of senior centers from the first
Above listed publications are
preciated.
Bureau of the Budget, October 31, 1966.
with this law.
teer work.
one opened in 1943 in New York
available at prices indicated from
The chapter on travel suggests the
City to the 4,870 centers listed in
Superintendent of Documents,
retiree "see the U.S.A. first," and
the 1974 Directory of Centers
Washington, D.C. 20402.
34
AGING
April 1976
35
UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
DIVISION OF PUBLIC DOCUMENTS
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20402
POSTAGE AND FEES PAID
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF H.E.W.
OFFICIAL BUSINESS
U.S.MAIL
HEW-391
Sarah Messengale
OS-AG
Domestic Counsil Staff
Room 220
Executive Offc Eldg.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE . OFFICE OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT . ADMINISTRATION ON AGING
NATIONAL CLEARINGHOUSE ON AGING
DHEW Pub. No. (OHD/AoA) 76-20933
*U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE:1976 210-980/7 1-3
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 23, 1976
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:
Section 208 of the 1973 Amendments to the Older
Americans Act (Public Law 89-73) provides that the
Commissioner on Aging shall prepare and submit to the
President for transmittal to the Congress a report on
the activities carried out under this Act.
The Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare
has forwarded the Annual Report of the Administration
on Aging for the fiscal year 1975 to me, and I am pleased
to transmit this document to the Congress.
GERALD R. FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE,
March 23, 1976
FORD LIBRARY i GERALD
#####
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
GENERAL COUNSEL
MAR 16 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR ROBERT D. LINDER
Subject: Proposed proclamation entitled "Older Americans
Month, 1976"
The enclosed memo of March 12, 1976, was held up late
Friday to receive a promised draft of the Older Americans
proclamation from the Department of Health, Education,
and Welfare, which was received this morning (copy
enclosed).
To the extent appropriate, we have incorporated themes
from the HEW draft into the revised proposed proclama-
tion, copy enclosed, and have no objection to those
changes. (See para. 4, lines 3 and 4, and the last
sentence of the first "call to action" paragraph.)
Although the first of the week has passed as a result
of this delay, we still urge that this proposed proclama-
tion be promptly submitted for the President's consider-
ation.
William m. nichols
William M. Nichols
Acting General Counsel
Enclosures
FORD is LIBRARY GERALD
OLDER AMERICANS MONTH, 1976
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
The past few years have reminded us of the much
needed lesson that we must preserve our precious natural
resources. The collective wisdom, experience, and
productive abilities of our older citizens is one of
those greatest natural resources:
Increasingly we have are become ing more aware of the importance
of the contributions our older workers have made in the past.
And We have are increased my our efforts to ensure that our older
citizens have the opportunity for security maintenance of income, main -
tenan 8 and health ) and for self realization and continuing
usefulness.
While respect for our older citizens is important,
x
the opportunities we give them to take pride in them-
A very
selves is equally SO. The most meaningful security
the
is the knowledge, and/opportunity to prove, that time
has only enhanced their demonstrated capabilities.
the
benefiting from
One of our best opportunities for capitalizing
on the resources possessed by Older Americans, as
pointed out in the Bicentennial Charter for Older
Americans prepared by the Federal Council on the Aging,
is in the job market, where older, and even middle-
aged, workers are too often the victims of myths and
stereotypes about their capabilities. Our vital economy
needs the know-how, experience, judgment, and eagerness
which these solid citizens bring to the job.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GERALD R. FORD, President of
the United States of America, do hereby designate the
month of May, 1976, as Older Americans Month.
I urge all employer and employee organizations,
and other organizations officially concerned with
employment to observe this month with appropriate
ceremonies, activities, and programs designed to in-
crease employment opportunities for older workers.
Such programs should include public forums for dis-
cussion of the Bicentennial Charter for Older Americans.
I ask all Americans to reflect upon the achieve-
ments and the needs of our older citizens and to do
on
HEW Heers
all in their power to make these years something to
welcome, rather than dread. Most of all, I ask that
failt
we begin this joint effort today.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand
this
day of
,
in the year of
our Lord nineteen hundred seventy-six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the
two hundredth.
DKAFI
Nr. Kienlen, Rm 465 OLDO X 5600
7678
Tn this 200th year of our independence, it is important that our Jation,
by its deeds, recognize the dignity and worth of our older citizens. They
have provided the strength which has made it possible for us to deal with
developments that threatened to undermine and destroy the form of government
bequeathed to us by our forefathers. They possess the insight, the vision,
the wisden, and the courage on which we must draw if ye are to deal
constructively with today's challenging and complex issues.
The Federal Council on Azing, created when the Older Americans Act was
amended in 1973, has prepared = new Bicentennial Charter for Older
Americans--an update of the Charter for Senior Citizens developed by the 1961
White House Conference on Asing. This Bicentennial, Charter sets forth
principles which can be used to analyze and to evaluate our nation's response
to the problems that confront older persons and the response of older persons
to the problems now confronting our Nation,
The Bicentennial Charter, for example, speaks to the "right to an
opportunity for employment free from discriminatory practices because of age!"
and the "right to an opportunity to participate in the widest range of
meaningful civic, educational, recreational and cultural activities".
We must make it possible for older persons to continue to be involved
in the life of our Nation. One of the best opportunities for capitalizing on
the strengths of older Americans is in the job market, where older, and
even middle-aged, persons are too often the victims of myths and stereotypes
about their capabilities. Likewise older persons 310 the victims of these
same eyths and stereotypes in the recruitment of volunteers who oftentimes
represent the difference between success and failure in the delivery of
services to those who are in need.
-2-
There in no finer way of demonstrating our respect for older persons
than to give than the opportunity of proving that time has only enhanced
their demonstrated abilities.
NOW, THEREFORE, I GERALD R. FORD, President of the United States of
America, do hereby designate the month of May, 1976, as Older Americans
Month.
1. I urge State and Area Agencies on Aging, organizations of older
persons and other private and public organisations that are
related to the field of aging to observe this month by
arranging for public forums where the Dicentennial Charter
for Older Americans will be discussed by older persons and
where older persons will develop recommendations for action,
addressed to both public and private bodies, designed to
implement the principles set forth in the Charter.
2. I urge all employer and employee organizations and other
organizations officially concerned with employment, both
public and private, to observe this month with appropriate
ceremonies, activities and programs designed to increase
employment opportunities for older workers.
3. I urge all organizations, both public and private, engaged
put
in the delivery of services to persons In need, to observe.
diaft
this month by placing increased emphasis on the utilization
of volunteers and by intensifying their efforts to recruit,
train and place older volunteers.
-3-
4, I urge all Americans to observe this month by focusing on
both the achievaments and needs of older persons and by
resolving to support those programs in both the public and
private sector which, if implemented, will help to make the
Tast
increasing
older Americans? 7
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set by hand this
day
of
>
in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred seventy-six,
and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundredth.
lives of older Americans both productive and free from
want.
FORD LIBRARY & GERALD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Date 3/10/76
TO: Sara
FROM: John G. Carlson
FYI
LIBRARY is 078835
FORD file that agus of
0 H ZVTCZCRYR
#NUTRITION 340
WASHINGTON (AP) THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH EDUCATION AND WELFARE IS
PLANNING TO INCREASE ITS SPENDING ON MEALS FOR THE ELDERLY BUT WILL
NOT USE THE FULL $187.5 MILLION CONGRESS EARMARKED FOR THE PROGRAM.
THE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCED TUESDAY THAT IT HOULD INCREASE SPENDING FOR
THE PROGRAM BETWEEN MARCH AND THE END OF THE CURRENT FISCAL YEAR BUT
THAT TOTAL OUTLAYS HOULD NOT REACH $187.5 MILLION BECAUSE OF LOWER
SPENDING RATES EARLIER IN FISCAL 1976.
AN ANTIHUNGER ORGANIZATION HAS FILED A LAWSUIT WHICH SEEKS TO FORCE
HEW TO SPEND THE FULL AMOUNT APPROPRIATED BY CONGRESS AND EARLIER
TUESDAY THE DEPARTMENT ISSUED A STATEMENT SUGGESTING THE FULL AMOUNT
HOULD BE SPENT.
CLARIFYING THAT ANNOUNCEMENT) HEN SAID IT HILL BOOST SPENDING FOR
THE PROGRAM TO AN ANNUAL RATE OF $187.5 MILLION BETWEEN MARCH AND AND
THE END OF JUNE. DEPARTMENT FUNDING FOR THE PROGRAM FROM THE
BEGINNING OF THE FISCAL YEAR LAST JULY 1 HAD BEEN AT AN ANNUAL RATE OF
$150 MILLION.
AN HEW PRESS OFFICER ACKNONLEDGED THAT THE DEPARTMENT'S EARLIER
STATEMENT HAS MISLERDING IN ITS IMPLICATION THAT THE FULL $187.5
MILLION APPROPRIATED BY CONGRESS HOULD BE SPENT THIS YEAR.
PLAINTIFFS IN THE LANSUIT: THE Food RESEARCH AND ACTION CENTER IN
NEW YORK, SAID THE CHANGE HILL MEAN OUTLAYS OF LESS THAN $160 MILLION
FOR HEALS FOR THE ELDERLY OVER ALL OF FISCAL 1976.
RONALD POLLACK DIRECTOR OF THE FOOD RESEARCH CENTER SAID THE
GOVERNMENT WOULD HAVE TO INCREASE ITS SPENDING FOR ELDERLY NUTRITION
PROGRAMS TO AN ANNUAL RATE OF $240 MILLION DURING THE FINAL QUARTER OF
FISCAL 1976 IF IT WAS TO ACHIEVE THE FULL EXPENDITURE OF $187.5
MILLION FOR THE YEAR.
HE ADDED THAT THE NEW HEW PLAN TO SPEND MORE WAS AN IMPROVEMENT BUT
THAT IT HOULD NOT END THE LAWSUIT: WHICH ACCUSES THE FORD
ADMINISTRATION OF ILLEGALLY IMPOUNDING THE FUNDS.
CONGRESS ORDERED HEW TO SPEND THE FULL $187.5 MILLION AND NOT JUST
REACH THAT EXPENDITURE RATE OVER PART OF THE YEAR: POLLACK CLAIMED.
"THIS IS STILL R FRUSTRATION OF CONGRESSIONAL INTENT HE SAID.
RE GOING TO HAVE TO STUDY THIS VERY CAREFULLY. 3.5
1002AES 03-10
HEW Frees
Food Funds
For Elderly
United Press International
One day after being
named in a court suit, the
Department of Health,
Education and Welfare said
ws- 3/10
FORD LIBRARY & GERALD
DEPARTMENT OF
HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
2/25
To: Ms. Massengale
As requested, per telephone conversation.
Office of Human Development
Aging
of HEALTH to LI OR
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
OFFICE OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
WASHINGTON. D.C. 20201
Remarks By
STANLEY B. THOMAS, Jr.
Assistant Secretary for Human Development
FORD LIBRARY & GERALD
Before The
National Council on the Aging, Inc.
25th Annual Conference
Washington, D. C.
October 2, 1975
- 1 -
IT IS A GREAT PLEASURE TO BE HERE TODAY AND SHARE WITH YOU SOME
OF MY THOUGHTS ON WHAT THE FUTURE MAY HOLD FOR THE FAR END OF THAT
UNIVERSAL HUMAN PROCESS, AGING, IT IS INTERESTING TO OBSERVE THAT,
DESPITE THE REAMS AND STREAMS OF BOOKS AND ARTICLES ON THE FUTURE WHICH
HAVE FLOODED THE PUBLIC DOMAIN AT LEAST SINCE TOFFLER'S POPULARIZATION
OF THE SUBJECT WITH FUTURE SHOCK, THERE HAS BEEN VERY LITTLE WRITTEN
ON THE FUTURE WITH RESPECT TO THE ELDERLY, PERHAPS THIS IS BECAUSE SO
MUCH OF THE FUTURISTS' WORK IS ORIENTED TOWARD ASSESSMENT OF TECHNOLOGY
IMPACT ON THE SOCIETY AS A WHOLE AND ON ITS SOCIAL ARRANGEMENTS, BUT
WE SEE AGAIN THE UNSPOKEN ASSUMPTION THAT SOCIETY CONSISTS OF ADULTS
BETWEEN 21 AND 60 -- CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND THE ELDERLY ARE BUT TEMPORARY
DEVIATIONS FROM THE NORM.
To SAY THAT RAPID SOCIAL CHANGE, PARTICULARLY SINCE WORLD WAR II,
- 2 -
HAS HAD AN ENORMOUS IMPACT ON OUR SOCIETY IS ALMOST TRITE, YET NOWHERE
HAS IT BEEN MORE DEVASTATING AND LESS EXAMINED THAN WITH RESPECT TO
THE ELDERLY. OUR SOCIETY NO LONGER HAS ANY CONSISTENT EXPECTATIONS
OR VALUES ABOUT THE ELDERLY, FOR THE VERY SPEED OF CHANGE HAS DEPRIVED
THEM OF THEIR TRADITIONAL ROLE AS SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS TO SOCIETY BY
MAKING SUDDENLY OBSOLESCENT THEIR ACCUMULATED EXPERIENCE AND WISDOM,
ONCE NEEDED BY EACH SUCCEEDING GENERATION TO ASSURE CONTINUITY OF
CULTURE, CIVILIZATION, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL DEVELOPMENT.
THE PRESENT AMBIGUITY OF ROLES FOR THE ELDERLY IN OUR SOCIETY
GREATY FORD LIBRARY
su
TODAY FLOWS NOT ONLY FROM THE DEMISE OF THEIR CLEARLY DELINEATED
TRADITIONAL ROLES, BUT ALSO FROM OUR INCREASING RELIANCE ON ECONOMIC
VALUATION AT A TIME WHEN THE ELDERLY HAVE BEEN ALMOST SUMMARILY
EXCLUDED FROM EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES BY THE INTERVENTION AND
- 3 -
PERVASIVE USE OF MANDATORY RETIREMENT. THIS EXCLUSION FROM PARTICIPA-
TION IN THE CENTRAL WORLD OF WORK -- BASIC IN OUR SOCIETY TO BOTH THE
INDIVIDUAL'S SELF-DEFINITION AND HIS OR HER VALUATION BY OTHERS -- IS
A PROBLEM WHICH THE ELDERLY SHARE IN COMMON WITH OTHER ELEMENTS OF OUR
SOCIETY WHO HAVE BEEN EXCLUDED FROM THAT WORLD OF WORK. NEITHER THE
ELDERLY, NOR THESE OTHER VULNERABLE GROUPS, HAVE ROUTINE ACCESS TO
MEANINGFUL ROLES OR TO OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRODUCTIVE ACTIVITY IN OUR
SOCIETY,
THOSE WHO ARE ELDERLY TODAY GREW UP IN A VERY DIFFERENT WORLD WITH
VERY DIFFERENT CULTURAL NORMS AND EXPECTATIONS THAN THE WORLD IN WHICH
THEY NOW LIVE. CONSIDER THE SIMPLE FACT THAT AN ELDERLY PERSON TODAY
WAS BORN BEFORE WORLD WAR I. THERE WAS LITTLE REASON TO SUSPECT THEN
THE COMING EXTINCTION OF THE EXTENDED FAMILY; THE URBANIZATION OF THE
- 4 -
NATION; THE TREMENDOUS EXTENSION OF LIFE EXPECTANCY FROM 47 TO 71 YEARS;
THE INCREDIBLE CHANGES WROUGHT BY TECHNOLOGY WE NOW TAKE FOR GRANTED IN
SUCH THINGS AS THE TELEPHONE, THE JET AIRPLANE, TELEVISION, COMPUTERS,
SKYSCRAPERS, PACEMAKERS; THE MERCURIAL GROWTH OF CORPORATE CAPITALISM;
THE MASSIVE INVOLVEMENT OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT IN DOMESTIC SOCIAL
WELFARE; THE SO-CALLED SEXUAL REVOLUTION; THE RISE OF ENVIRONMENTAL
CONCERNS; AND SO ON,
THERE IS NO REASON FOR US TO SUSPECT, EITHER, THAT SOCIAL CHANGE
WILL SLOW DOWN IN THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE. IN SPECULATING ON WHAT THE
FUTURE HOLDS FOR THOSE WHO WILL BE ELDERLY IN 1990 OR IN THE YEAR 2000,
THEREFORE, IT IS WISE FOR US TO REMEMBER THAT THE SAME DRAMATIC DIFFERENCE
WILL PROBABLY EXIST FOR US BETWEEN THE WORLD WE VE GROWN UP IN AND THE
WORLD WE WILL LIVE IN.
- 5 -
EVERYONE IN THIS ROOM BORN BEFORE 1940 WILL BE PART OF THE ELDERLY
POPULATION BY THE YEAR 2000, AT LEAST BY CURRENT DEFINITIONS! SINCE
THERE IS SOME TALK OF FURTHER EXTENDING LIFE EXPECTANCY RATES AND OF
DEVELOPING WONDER DRUGS TO RETARD THE AGING PROCESS ITSELF, WE MAY FIND
OURSELVES MERELY MIDDLE-AGED WHEN WE REACH 60, NEVERTHELESS, IT SEEMS
TO ME THAT OVER THE NEXT TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OR so, DISTINCT CHANGES ARE
GOING TO OCCUR IN THE EXPERIENCE OF BEING ELDERLY IN OUR SOCIETY.
BEARING IN MIND THAT I AM HARDLY AN EXPERT IN THIS AREA, I AM GOING
TO CITE SOME CENSUS BUREAU FIGURES THEN OFFER YOU MY SPECULATIONS --
PROBABLY MIXED WITH SOME DEGREE OF WISHFUL THINKING ON WHAT THE FUTURE
MAY HOLD FOR THOSE OF US WHO WILL BE OLD FOLKS BY THE YEAR 2000. THE
CENSUS BUREAU HAS DONE SOME POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR THE YEAR 2000,
AND ESTIMATES THAT THE NUMBER OF ELDERLY PEOPLE IN THIS COUNTRY WILL
- 6 -
INCREASE FROM AROUND 31 MILLION IN 1974 TO AROUND 41 MILLION IN 2000.
DEPENDING ON THE FERTILITY RATE OVER THE NEXT TWENTY-FIVE YEARS, THE
ELDERLY WILL CONSTITUTE ANYWHERE BETWEEN 14.6% AND 16.6% OF THE TOTAL
POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES, IN ADDITION, THE FEMALE, BLACK, AND
THE VERY OLDEST SEGMENTS OF THE ELDERLY POPULATION WILL BECOME AN
INCREASINGLY LARGER PROPORTION OF THE TOTAL ELDERLY.
Now, I MYSELF SUSPECT THAT THE LATTER PROJECTION WILL NOT QUITE
HOLD UP BECAUSE OF A RECENT BUT VERY STRONG TREND: THE WOMEN'S MOVE-
MENT. AND BECAUSE BLACK WOMEN TEND TO OUTLIVE BLACK MEN, THE WOMEN'S
MOVEMENT IS GOING TO AFFECT THE PROPORTION OF THE ELDERLY POPULATION
WHICH IS BLACK, AS WELL AS THAT WHICH IS FEMALE, FOR ONE SIMPLE REASON.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IN THE JOB MARKET ULTIMATELY MEANS GREATER FEMALE
INVOLVEMENT IN HIGH PRESSURE JOBS WITH RESPONSIBILITY; WOMEN ARE GOING
- 7 -
TO HAVE EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP HEART ATTACKS, ULCERS, HIGH
BLOOD PRESSURES, STROKES, AND ALL THOSE OTHER PHYSICAL PROBLEMS THAT
MEN HAVE TRADITIONALLY BEEN HEIR TO, ALONG WITH THEIR NEW JOBS. So
I THINK FEWER WOMEN WILL OUTLIVE MEN THAN HAS BEEN THE CASE THUS FAR,
AND THAT WOMEN IN GENERAL WILL BE MORE ACCUSTOMED TO BOTH ECONOMIC AND
SOCIAL INDEPENDENCE, AS WELL AS TO GREATER ACTIVE INVOLVEMENT IN ALL
ASPECTS OF SOCIETY.
INDEED, THAT IS THE PRIMARY CHANGE I SEE COMING FOR THE ELDERLY
OVER THE NEXT TWENTY-FIVE YEARS: THEY WILL ENGAGE IN MANY MORE ACTIVI-
TIES THAN IS GENERALLY NOW THE CASE, AND NOT ONLY MORE, BUT MORE
DIVERSE. THOSE WHO WILL BE MOVING INTO OLD ARE ARE NOW THE MIDDLE-AGED
--- PEOPLE IN THEIR THIRTIES, FORTIES, AND FIFTIES. EACH SUCCEEDING GEN-
ERATION HAS BEEN EXPOSED AT AN EARLIER AGE TO ACCELERATING CHANGE, AND
- 8 -
EACH SUCCEEDING GENERATION OF THE ELDERLY WILL BE MORE ACCUSTOMED TO
THE SWIFTNESS OF CHANGE, WILL BE BETTER ABLE TO COPE WITH IT, TO
EXPECT IT, AND EVENTUALLY, TO PREPARE FOR IT AS THE ORDINARY WAY OF
LIFE.
MANDATORY RETIREMENT AGES WILL ALL BUT EVAPORATE UNDER THE COM-
BINED PRESSURES OF THE OLDER AMERICANS' ADVOCACY GROUPS SUCH AS THIS
ONE, THE ENHANCED POLITICAL POWER OF THE ELDERLY THEMSELVES, THE DE-
CREASING PRESSURES ON THE JOB MARKET AS WE MOVE PAST THE WAR-BABY BOOM
GENERATION'S ENTRANCE INTO THE LABOR FORCE, AND THE PROBABILITY OF
SUFFICIENT INDIVIDUAL EXEMPTIONS, TO ESTABLISH EASY PRECEDENT. AT THE
SAME TIME, PEOPLE WILL BE WANTING TO RETIRE FROM THEIR PRIMARY CAREERS
EARLIER IN ORDER TO DEVELOP SECOND CAREERS AND/OR TO HAVE MORE TIME
FOR THE PLEASURES OF LEISURE TIME AND LEISURE TIME ACTIVITIES.
- 9 -
LEISURE TIME ACTIVITIES THEMSELVES WILL DIVERSITY, WHILE OUTDOOR
RECREATION AND SPORTS WILL CONTINUE TO BE POPULAR, OLDER PEOPLE WILL
BECOME MORE INTERESTED IN LESS PHYSICALLY STRENUOUS ACTIVITIES WHICH
ARE STILL CHALLENGING. SERIOUS STUDY OF MUSIC, PAINTING, AND DRAMA
WILL BECOME MORE POPULAR, AND WILL PROBABLY CONTRIBUTE A GREAT DEAL TO
EXPANDING THE AVAILABILITY OF ART TO THE ENTIRE POPULATION. ASTRONOMY,
BIOLOGY, GEOLOGY, SOCIOLOGY - ALL SORTS OF SUBJECT AREAS WILL BECOME
ATTRACTIVE AS LEISURE TIME STUDIES, PARTICULARLY TO THOSE ENGAGED IN
PRIMARY CAREERS FAR REMOVED FROM THEM. THE LINE BETWEEN LEISURE TIME
ACTIVITIES AND SECOND CAREERS WILL INCREASINGLY. BE BLURRED BY INFORMAL
CONSULTING, IN WHICH THE ELDERLY WILL BE CONSULTED BY SMALL GROUPS AND
INDIVIDUALS WHO EITHER CANNOT AFFORD PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANTS OR WHO
DESIRE TYPES OF ASSISTANCE NOT ORDINARILY AVAILABLE.
FORD LIBRARY 3 GERALD
- 10 -
BARTERING FOR GOODS AND SERVICES WILL BECOME MORE COMMON OUTSIDE
CHAIN STORES, CORPORATIONS AND OTHER LARGE INSTITUTIONS. THIS WILL
BECOME MORE COMMON PARTICULARLY AMONG INDIVIDUALS AND WILL USUALLY
INVOLVE AT LEAST PART OF THE EXCHANGE IN SERVICE SUCH AS HOUSE- OR
APARTMENT-PAINTING, DIFFERENT KINDS OF COOKING, STORY-TELLING, MUSIC
LESSONS, CLOTHES-MAKING, FAMILY-MEDIATING, INTERIOR-DECORATION ADVISING,
MONEY MANAGEMENT, AND SO ON. BOTH BARTERING AND CONSULTING WILL BECOME
A MAJOR WAY IN WHICH UNRELATED YOUNG AND ELDERLY PEOPLE INTERACT.
BOTH THE INTEREST IN SECOND CAREERS AND THE DIVERSIFICATION OF
LEISURE TIME INTERESTS WILL GENERATE INCREASING DEMAND FOR RESPONSE FROM
THE FORMAL EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM. EVEN NOW, ADULT CONTINUING EDUCATION
IS EXPERIENCING AN UNPRECEDENTED DEMAND FOR MORE THAN CAREER ADVANCE-
MENT OR REFRESHER COURSES. IF THE PUSH TO MOVE THE ELEMENTARY AND
- 11 -
SECONDARY SCHOOL SYSTEMS MORE HEAVILY INTO CAREER EDUCATION AND WORK-
STUDY PROGRAMS SUCCEEDS, DEMANDS ON ADULT EDUCATION WILL INCREASE EVEN
MORE HEAVILY AS PEOPLE RETURN TO THE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM TO FEED THEIR
HUMAN POTENTIAL AS WELL AS THEIR POCKETBOOKS. THIS DEMAND WILL BE
PARTICULARLY GREAT FROM BOTH WOMEN AND THE INCREASING NUMBERS OF MEN
INVOLVED IN HOMEMAKING WHO WILL SEE THEIR SPOUSE'S RETIREMENT AS A
NATURAL HIATUS IN WHICH TO BEGIN A JOINT VENTURE OF SOME SORT, OR
SIMPLY PERHAPS TO ENGAGE IN NEW PURSUITS,
BECAUSE OF THE INCREASED AMOUNT OF ACTIVITY AMONG THE ELDERLY,
THEY WILL BE LESS ISOLATED, LESS SEGREGATED, MORE CREDIBLY INTEGRATED
INTO THIS SOCIETY THAN THEY NOW ARE. WHAT WILL, OF COURSE, MAKE A
FUNDAMENTAL DIFFERENCE IS THEIR ENHANCED POLITICAL POWER, AT THE
MOMENT, OLDER PEOPLE ARE DISCOVERING THE TREMENDOUS LEVERAGE OF THE
- 12 -
VOTE, AND AS EVERY DISENFRANCHISED GROUP BEFORE THEM, ARE BEGINNING
TO DEMAND WITH GREATER SUCCESS THAT POLITICS RESPOND TO THEIR NEEDS.
USE OF THIS LEVERAGE COUPLED WITH THE GREATER PROPORTION OF THE POPULA-
TION THEY WILL REPRESENT WILL GIVE THEM A POLITICAL VOICE HERETOFORE
UNIMAGINED THIS IS LIKELY TO BE MOST VOCIFEROUSLY EXERTED AT THE LOCAL
AND STATE LEVELS WHICH ARE MORE EASILY ACCESSIBLE AND MORE DIRECTLY
RELATED TO EVERY DAY NEEDS, THAN AT THE FEDERAL OR NATIONAL.
ANOTHER RESULT OF THIS INCREASED ACTIVITY WILL BE A REDUCED NEED
FOR NURSING HOMES AND INSTITUTIONS. SOME FORM OF NATIONAL HEALTH
INSURANCE WILL ENABLE PREVENTIVE HEALTH CARE TO BECOME COMMON, AND
A GREATER NUMBER OF DAY HOSPITALS WILL FLOURISH. INCREASINGLY, NET-
WORKS OF UNRELATED INDIVIDUALS OF VARYING AGES -- PROBABLY WITHIN A
TEN- TO FIFTEEN-YEAR AGE RANGE - -- WILL FORM OUT OF SHARED INTERESTS
- 13 -
AND FRIENDSHIPS; THESE NETWORKS WILL BE FAIRLY FLUID AND OF LONG DURA-
TION, SOMETIMES SPREAD OUT GEOGRAPHICALLY, AND THEIR MEMBERS WILL
RELY ON ONE ANOTHER FOR HELP IN TIMES OF TROUBLE OR CRISIS, MUCH LIKE
THE EXTENDED FAMILY OF OLD, THESE NETWORKS WILL CONSIST OF AN ASSORT-
MENT OF INDIVIDUALS AND HOUSEHOLDS, MANY OF WHICH WILL BE MINI-URBAN
COMMUNITIES OF COUPLES AND UNRELATED INDIVIDUALS POOLING DURABLE GOODS,
OPERATING MEDIUM-SCALE FOOD COOPERATIVES, AND SUPPORTING ONE ANOTHER
DURING ILLNESS OR OTHER CRISES. MATERIALISM WILL NOT BE A DOMINANT
VALUE OF THESE MINI-COMMUNITIES AND NETWORKS, AND THEIR STANDARDS OF
LIVING WILL PERHAPS BE LOWER THAN THE NATION AS A WHOLE, BUT THEY WILL
BE RELATIVELY SELF-SUFFICIENT AND INDEPENDENT.
SOME FORM OF NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE, AN INTEGRATED SOCIAL
SECURITY SYSTEM, LESS STRINGENT RETIREMENT AND PENSION PLANS, PLUS
- 14 -
INCOME FROM SECOND CAREERS AND CONSULTING, COMBINED WITH REDUCED RE-
SOURCES NECESSARY TO SUPPORT MORE COMMUNAL OR COOPERATIVE LIVING
ARRANGEMENTS WILL GENERALLY MEAN LESS FINANCIAL CONCERN FOR THE
ELDERLY OF THE FUTURE, IN ADDITION, GREATER VALUE IN THE SOCIETY
AT-LARGE WILL BE PLACED ON DECREASED WASTE, MORE IMAGINATIVE USES OF
WHAT ALREADY EXISTS, AND THE GREATEST USE FOR THE LEAST EXPENSE,
THERE WILL BE LESS INTEREST IN WHAT WE NOW CALL CONSPICUOUS CONSUMP-
TION, LESS FADDISHNESS IN CLOTHING, AUTOMOBILES, AND SO ON, CREATING
CIRCUMSTANCES FOR THE SOCIETY AS A WHOLE IN WHICH THE GAP BETWEEN
THE INCOME OF THE ELDERLY AND THE INCOME OF THE MIDDLE-AGED IS SUB-
STANTIALLY LESS,
EACH SUCCEEDING GENERATION OF OLDER PEOPLE WILL HAVE LIVED THROUGH
NOT ONLY THE TREMENDOUS TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGES OF THE LAST THIRTY YEARS,
- 15 -
BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, THROUGH THE QUITE AMAZING ATTITUDINAL CHANGES AND
REVERBERATIONS: THE INTENSE CHALLENGING OF ALL TYPES OF AUTHORITY,
FROM PARENTAL TO ADMINISTRATIVE TO RELIGIOUS TO SCIENTIFIC TO MEDICAL
TO BUSINESS AUTHORITY; THE BLACK MOVEMENT, AND THE STRUGGLES OF OTHER
MINORITY GROUPS AS WELL; THE WOMEN'S MOVEMENT; THE SEXUAL REVOLUTION;
EXPERIMENTATION WITH FAMILY STRUCTURING; GAY LIBERATION; THE SELF-
ASSERTION OF- HANDICAPPED PEOPLE; THE DECLINE OF TRADITIONAL RELIGIONS
AND THE RISE OF NEW FORMS OF RELIGION, INCLUDING THE SPREAD OF EASTERN
RELIGIONS; FRAGMENTATION OF THE FAMILY; ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS; DECLINE
OF PUBLIC CONFIDENCE IN GOVERNMENT AND IN INSTITUTIONS IN GENERAL; THESE
ARE SOME OF THE MAJOR CHANGES WE HAVE EXPERIENCED, AND THERE ARE HUNDREDS
MORE,
IT IS THE ABILITY TO ADAPT TO CHANGE AND TO RE-SHAPE IT THAT WILL
- 16 -
CHARACTERIZE THE ELDERLY OF THE FUTURE, THESE ATTITUDINAL CHANGES HAVE
HAVE CREATED AN ENORMOUS RESERVOIR OF IMAGINATION AND VENTUROUSNESS IN
DEVISING WAYS TO MEET HUMAN NEEDS OF THE FUTURE. EACH SUCCEEDING GENERA-
TION OF THE ELDERLY WILL BE INCREASINGLY ENDOWED WITH BOTH THE NECESSARY
SKILLS AND THE OPPORTUNITIES, INDEED, THE NEED TO USE THEM. THE ELDERLY
OF THE FUTURE WILL WIELD GREATER POLITICAL POWER THAN EVER BEFORE, NOT
AS ELDERS IN THE TRADITIONAL SENSE, BUT AS POLITICAL ACTIVISTS WITH
TIME AND INTEREST, WHOSE JUDGMENT HAS BEEN TEMPERED BY THE CERTAINTY
OF CHANGE. NEW FORMS OF UNRELATED KINSHIP WILL FLOURISH IN GREATER
VARIETY, FORMS WHICH WILL INCLUDE THE ELDERLY AND ON WHICH THEY WILL
BE ABLE TO DEPEND. SECOND CAREERS, MORE ACTIVE INVOLVEMENT OF WOMEN,
MORE SERIOUS USE OF LEISURE TIME, ALTOGETHER MUCH MORE DIVERSE ACTIVI-
TIES CAN'T HELP BUT MAKE IT TRUE THAT WE'RE NOT GETTING BETTER, FOR THE
- 17 - -
ELDERLY EVEN TODAY, CONTINUE TO STAND AS LIVING TESTAMENTS TO THE INCREDI-
BLE AND UNKNOWABLE POTENTIAL OF THE HUMAN BEING.
THIS VIGNETTE OF THE FUTURE FOR THE ELDERLY IS CERTAINLY APPEALING
AND PROBABLY TAINTED BY MY OWN VESTED INTEREST IN THE SUBJECT. THE
PROBLEMS WHICH THE ELDERLY FACE TODAY ARE UNDENIABLY REAL AND HARDLY
LIKELY TO VANISH IN THE FACE OF A DISTANT AND ROSY FUTURE. GETTING
TO THE YEAR 2000 MEANS GOING THROUGH TODAY AND TOMORROW AND THE NEXT
DAY AND THE NEXT YEAR, AND THE FUTURE IS SHAPED BY THE FLUID COURSE OF
DECISIONS AND EVENTS AS THEY UNFOLD NOW, AS WE MAKE THEM NOW. WHILE
In
THE INCOME GAP BETWEEN THE ELDERLY AND THE REST OF SOCIETY MAY DIMINISH
OVER THE YEARS, IT IS REAL NOW, AND FOR A SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF OLDER
AMERICANS, DEVASTATING. THEY CAN'T WAIT FOR THE FUTURE.
As I MENTIONED IN THE EARLIER PART OF MY REMARKS, THE ELDERLY
- 18 -
TODAY GREW UP AND MATURED IN A WORLD RATHER UNLIKE THIS ONE. THEIR
EXPECTATIONS FOR THEIR OLD AGE WERE VERY DIFFERENT FROM WHAT THEY NOW
MUST CONTEND WITH. THERE WAS RELATIVELY LITTLE IN THEIR LIFETIMES WHICH
COULD HAVE PREPARED THEM TO DEAL WITH THE WORLD AS IT IS AND THEMSELVES
AS ELDERLY PEOPLE IN IT.
THE ECONOMIC PROBLEM IS A SUBSTANTIAL ONE, THE
PROBLEM OF SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL ISOLATION ANOTHER, No ADEQUATE EQUIVA-
LENT TO THE EXTENDED FAMILY HAS YET DEVELOPED, FOR INSTANCE, AND SO
THE ELDERLY ARE RELEGATED TO NURSING HOMES AND INSTITUTIONS OF ALL
SORTS, EVEN STATE MENTAL HOSPITALS. A FORTUNATE FEW HAVE BEEN ABLE
TO FIND APARTMENT COMPLEXES AND HOTELS WHICH PROVIDE MORE THAN MERE
HOUSING, BUT THIS IS NOT YET AVAILABLE ON A WIDE ENOUGH SCALE TO BE A
VIABLE ALTERNATIVE FOR MOST OF THE ELDERLY, NOR WOULD IT EVER BE FOR
THOSE WHO NEED NURSING CARE.
- 19 -
INCREASINGLY THE TEMPO OF LIFE IN OUR SOCIETY IS ADJUSTED TO FIT
THE METABOLISM AND VIGOR OF YOUNGER ADULTS, AND THE PHYSICAL ISOLATION
OF THE ELDERLY SIMPLY COMPOUNDS OUR GENERAL THOUGHTLESSNESS REGARDING
THEIR NEEDS, THEIR SLOWER BUT STILL QUITE FUNCTIONAL PACE. IT IS IN
THIS THOUGHTLESSNESS, HOWEVER, THAT THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM LIES, FOR
THE MAJOR HANDICAP IN RESOLVING THE PRESENT PROBLEMS OF THE ELDERLY IS
ONE WE HAVE- ALL GIVEN OURSELVES: WE HAVE SIMPLY GONE ALONG COMFORTABLY
ASSUMING THAT THINGS WOULD TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES, OR AT LEAST THAT
SOMEBODY ELSE WOULD. Lo AND BEHOLD, THEY HAVEN'T! AND WE HAVE VERY
SECRETLY ASSUMED THAT EACH OF US WOULD NOT EVERY REALLY GROW OLD, SO
WHY THINK ABOUT IT?
TODAY IS YESTERDAY'S FUTURE; TOMORROW IS TODAY'S. THOSE OF US WHO
WOULD LIKE TO LOOK FOWARD TO GOOD THINGS IN OUR OWN OLD AGE MUST REALIZE
- 20 -
THAT THE FUTURE BEGINS NOW WITH THE CARE AND ATTENTION WE PAY, BOTH
INDIVIDUALLY AND COLLECTIVELY, TO THE OLDER PEOPLE IN OUR MIDST WHO
SUFFER OUR THOUGHTLESSNESS, OUR EXCLUSION, OUR MYTHS, OUR NEGLECT.
WE CAN HAVE THE FUTURE WE WANT IF WE ARE WILLING TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY
FOR CREATING IT. Now.
*****
FORD LIBRARY is GERALD
2/9/76
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Sarah:
Good Job!
Jim Cavanaugh
FORD is LIBRARY GERALD
MMVM
GERALDES
R B
MISSARY
BENEFITS 2-9
ADV FOR NOON EST
BY HELEN THOMAS
UPI WHITE HOUSE REPORTER
WASHINGTON (UPI) -- PRESIDENT FORD ASKED CONGRESS TODAY TO
INCREASE SOCIAL SECURITY PAYROLL TAXES BY 0.3 PER CENT FOR BOTH
EMPLOYES AND THEIR EMPLOYERS AND TO EXTEND MEDICARE BENEFITS TO COVER
"CATASTROPHIC" HEALTH COSTS.
- FORD SAID HIS PROPOSALS ARE AIMED AT "HELPING ALL AMERICANS TO
LIVE IN DIGNITY, SECURITY AND GOOD HEALTH.' 27
AT A CEREMONY IN THE OVAL OFFICE, FORD SIGNED A SPECIAL MESSAGE TO
CONGRESS URGING PASSAGE OF THE LEGISLATION. HE FIRST OUTLINED THE
PROPOSALS IN HIS STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS JAN. 19.
"AS PRESIDENT, I INTEND TO DO EVERYTHING IN MY POWER TO HELP OUR
NATION DEMONSTRATE BY ITS DEEDS A DEEP CONCERN FOR THE DIGNITY AND
WORTH OF OUR OLDER PERSONS,' FORD SAID. "BY so DOING, OUR NATION WILL
CONTINUE TO BENEFIT FROM THE CONTRIBUTIONS THAT OLDER PERSONS CAN
MAKE TO THE STRENGTHENING OF OUR NATION."
FORD SAID THE INCREASE IN THE SOCIAL SECURITY TAX WAS NECESSARY TO
BUILD UP A TRUST FUND THAT IS BEING DEPLETED BECAUSE BENEFIT PAYMENTS
ARE INCREASING FASTER THAN REVENUES. UNDER HIS PLAN, THE TAX WOULD
INCREASE FROM 5.85 PER CENT TO 6.15 PER CENT JAN. 1, 1977.
THE PRESIDENT SAID THE INCREASE WOULD COST NO MORE THAN $1 A WEEK
FOR EACH WORKER.
FORD'S PROPOSAL FOR REVISION OF THE MEDICARE PROGRAM IS DESIGNED
TO PROVIDE PROTECTION AGAINST "CATASTROPHIC" HEALTH COSTS FOR ABOUT
24 MILLION ELDERLY AMERICANS WHO HAVE THE INSURANCE COVERAGE.
UNDER HIS PLAN, FORD SAID NO ONE WOULD HAVE TO PAY MORE THAN $500
A YEAR FOR HOSPITAL AND NURSING BILLS AND NO ONE WOULD PAY MORE THAN
$250 ANNUALLY FOR DOCTOR FEES.
BUT HE ALSO PROPOSED SOME CHANGES IN THE METHOD OF FINANCING THE
INSURANCE PROGRAM.
"THE SINGLE GREATEST THREAT TO THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF OLDER
AMERICANS IS INFLATION," HE SAID. "OUR FIRST PRIORITY CONTINUES TO BE
THE FIGHT AGAINST INFLATION."
FORD SAID THAT ALTHOUGH DOUBLE DIGIT INFLATION HAD BEEN CUT NEARLY
IN HALF, THE RETIRED, LIVING ON FIXED INCOMES "HAVE BEEN PARTICULARLY
HARD HIT AND THE PROGRESS WE HAVE MADE IN REDUCING INFLATION HAS NOT
BENEFITED THEM ENOUGH.
"THE PARTICULAR VULNERABLILITY OF THE AGED TO THE BURDENS OF
INFLATION REQUIRES THAT SPECIFIC IMPROVEMENTS BE MADE IN TWO MAJOR
FEDERAL PROGRAMS, SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE."
UPI 02-09 11:01 AES
2103
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URGENT
Adv for Noon EST
Ford-Elderly ADD 340
WASHN Ford-Elderly a101 add: it.
-To increase incentives to keep Medicare costs down. Ford
recommended that patients pay a larger share of hospital and doctor
bills - up to $500 per year per patient for hospitals and skilled
nursing services and $250 per year for doctor bills. This would affect
all Medicare patients.
-In another move to 'slow down the inflation of health costs,, and
help finance catastrophic protection. Ford asked that increases in
Medicare payment rates in 1977 and 1978 be limited to 7 per cent a day
for hospitals and 4 per cent for physicians' services.
Under the Ford plan, patients would pay 10 per cent of hospital and
nursing home charges after the first day, up to a maximum of $500 a
year. In addition. the amount they would be expected to pay for
medical services before the government began sharing the costs would
be increased to $77 from $60.
**The savings from placing a limit on increases in Medicare payments
and some of the revenue from increased cost-sharing will be used to
finance the catastrophic illness program. " Ford wrote in his message.
He added that he felt his proposals would not only offer broad
coverage of catastrophic illnesses but also promote efficient
utilization of services and moderate the increases in health care
costs."
David Mathews, secretary of Health. Education and Welfare, told
reporters at a briefing that the cost of the catastrophic illness
protection would total between $1.1 billion and $1.4 billion annually.
At the signing ceremony. Ford said that **the value of the Social
Security system is beyond challenge., But he said be was worried
about the trust fund that finances Social Security benefits. He said
his decision to recommend higher taxes was "very difficult.
Mathews told reporters the increase in Social Security taxes would
total about $4.4 billion annually.
Ford said the alternative to higher taxes would be a limitation on
increases in benefits. which rise in proportion to living costs.
If the higher taxes are put into effect he said. Current income
will be certain to either equal or exceed current outgo."
MORE
1118aES 02-09
--
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Adv for Noon EST
Ford-Elderly ADD 180
WASHN Ford-Elderly a103 2nd add: outgo.
The President emphasized that his recommendations 'will not affect
cost-of-living increases and benefits after retirement and will in
no way alter the benefit levels of current recipients But he said
they would protect future generations ''against unnecessary costs and
excessive tax increases."
In arguing for moves to hold down increases in health care costs.
Ford said that before the Medicare-Medicaid programs were initiated in
1966, per-person health expenditures for the aged came to $445 a
year. Just eight years later, he said, these outlays had risen to
218. an increase of 174 per cent.
At the outset, the Ford message stated that **the single greatest
threat to the quality of life of older Americans is inflation" and
asserted that the administration gives first priority to fighting
inflation.
While noting that living cost increases last year were reduced by
nearly 50 per cent from 1974. Ford said that retired persons on fixed
incomes have not benefited enough from the lower inflation rate. He
contended his proposals would help in that respect.
1122aES 02-09
a101
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Adv for Noon EST
Ford-Elderly 330
By FRANK CORMIER
Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON AP - President Ford formally asked Congress today for a
multibillion dollar boost in Social Security taxes, new catastrophic
illness insurance for older Americans and larger contributions by
Medicare patients to finance hospital and doctor bills.
Ford has said the proposed tax increase would cost each employe who
pays Social Security taxes less than $1 a week. The maximum increase
for a worker would be $49, raising the total maximum tax for that
worker to $1.014 in 1977. The tax hike would raise approximately $4.4
billion during the 1977 calendar year.
In his message to Congress, the President recommended that Medicare
patients pay up to $500 per year for hospital care and skilled
nursing services and $250 per year for doctor bills. He also called
for a limit on Medicare payment rates in 1977 and 1978 for both
hospital and physican services.
All the proposals outlined in Ford's special message were announced
Jan. 19 in the President's State of the Union address. But Ford took
the occasion of signing the message during an Oval Office ceremony to
declare that older Americans *have earned the right to live
securely, comfortably and independently.»
The ceremony came exactly one month in advance of the Florida
presidential primary, in which Ford will be vying for the votes of
thousands of retired people in that state.
Here are key elements in the President's request for new
legislation:
-To bolster the Social Security trust fund now paying out more than
it takes in, the President asked that payroll taxes paid by employes
and employers be increased by three-tenths of 1 per cent each. This
increase will cost no worker more than $1 a week, and most will pay
less, Ford wrote.
-To protect Medicare beneficiaries against catastrophic medical
bills, the President asked Congress to provide full coverage "for
unlimited days of hospital and skilled nursing facility care, " a more
generous system than is now offered but one that would help only the
minority of older people who need it.
MORE
1106aES 02-09
A101
R B
BENEFITS 2-9
1ST ADD BENEFITS WASHINGTON A099 XXX MEDICARE."
"I STRONGLY REAFFIRM MY COMMITMENT TO A STABLE AND FINANCIALLY
STRONG SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM," FORD SAID.
HE SAID "TO HELP PROTECT OUR RETIRED AND DISABLED CITIZENS AGAINST
THE HARDSHIPS OF INFLATION," HIS BUDGET REQUEST INCLUDES A FULL COST
OF LIVING INCREASE IN SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS, TO BE EFFECTIVE WITH
CHECKS RECEIVED IN JULY, 1976.
TO AVOID SERIOUS, FUTURE FINANCING PROBLEMS, FORD SAID LATER THIS
YEAR HE WILL PROPOSE A CHANGE IN THE SOCIAL SECURITY FORMULA WHICH
DETERMINES THE BENEFITS FOR WORKERS WHO RETIRE .
HE SAID THE CURRENT FORMULA DOES NOT PROPERLY REFLECT WAGE AND
PRICE FLUCTUATIONS AND "THIS IS AN INADVERTENT ERROR WHICH COULD LEAD
TO UNNECESSARILY INFLATED BENEFITS."
HE SAID THE PROTECTION AGAINST CATASTROPHIC ILLNESS COULD BE
ACCOMPLISHED BY:
-- EXTENDING MEDICARE BENEFITS BY PROVIDING COVERAGE FOR UNLIMITED
DAYS OF HOSPITAL AND SKILLED NURSING FACILITY CARE FOR BENEFICIARIES.
-- LIMITING THE OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSES OF BENEFICIARIES FOR
COVERED SERVICES TO $500 PER YEAR FOR HOSPITAL AND SKILLED NURSING
SERVICES AND $250 PER YEAR FOR PHYSICIAN AND OTHER NON-INSTITUTIONAL
MEDICAL SERVICES.
FORD SAID MORE STEPS ARE NEEDED TO SLOW DOWN THE INFLATION OF
HEALTH COSTS AND TO HELP FINANCE HIS CATASTROPHIC PROTECTION.
THEREFORE, HE SAID HE WAS RECOMMENDING THAT CONGRESS LIMIT
INCREASES IN MEDICARE PAYMENT RATES IN 1977 AND 1978 TO 7 PER CENT A
DAY FOR HOSPITALS AND 4 PER CENT FOR PHYSICIAN RATES.
UNDER FORD'S PLAN, A PATIENT WOULD CONTINUE TO PAY UP TO $104 FOR
THE FIRST DAY OF A HOSPITAL STAY BUT THEN 10 PER CENT OF ADDITIONAL
CHARGES UP TO $500.
IN ADDITION, HE IS RECOMMENDING THAT THE EXISTING DEDUCTIBLE FOR
MEDICAL SERVICES BE INCREASED FROM $60 TO $77 ANNUALLY.
UPI 02-09 11:13 AES
FORD LIBRARY is 938839
Bah Hartmann
TALKING POINTS
PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE ON THE AGING
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1976
FORD & LIBRARY 07V839
-1-
TODAY I AM SENDING A MESSAGE TO THE CONGRESS
THAT EXPRESSES MY CONFIDENCE AND SUPPORT OF
OLDER AMERICANS, MY DEEP CONCERN ABOUT THE PROBLEMS
OF AGING, AND MY PROPOSALS FOR DEALING WITH SOME OF THEM
-2-
SOCIETY OWES A DEBT OF GRATITUDE TO ALL
OLDER PERSONS WHO HAVE WORKED HARD AND CONTRIBUTED
TO OUR NATION'S PROGRESS®
OLDER AMERICANS CONTINUE
TO ENRICH OUR LIVES WITH THEIR VISION, STRENGTH AND
EXPERIENCE
THEY HAVE EARNED THE RIGHT TO LIVE
SECURELY, COMFORTABLY AND INDEPENDENTLY.
-3-
THE PROPOSALS I AM SENDING TO THE CONGRESS
TODAY OFFER SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS IN THE QUALITY
OF LIFE OF OLDER AMERICANS
WE ALL HAVE A STAKE IN FIGHTING INFLATION
BUT OLDER AMERICANS LIVING ON FIXED INCOMES ARE
ESPECIALLY HARD HIT
-4-
I PLEDGE TO CONTINUE THE FIGHT AGAINST INFLATION®
TO PROVIDE SPECIAL RELIEF TO THE ELDERLY, I AM REQUESTING
IN MY BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 1977 THAT THE FULL COST OF
LIVING INCREASE IN SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS BE PAID
DURING THE COMING YEAR
-5-
THE VALUE OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM
IS BEYOND CHALLENGE®
-6-
I AM CONCERNED ABOUT THE INTEGRITY OF THE
SOCIAL SECURITY TRUST FUND THAT ENABLES PEOPLE TO COUNT
ON THIS SOURCE OF RETIREMENT INCOME.
I AM CONCERNED
BECAUSE THE SYSTEM NOW PAYS OUT MORE IN BENEFITS
THAN IT RECEIVES IN TAX PAYMENTS
-7-
TO PREVENT A RAPID DECLINE IN THE TRUST FUND
OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS, I HAD TO MAKE A DIFFICULT DECISION
I AM PROPOSING A SMALL PAYROLL TAX INCREASE OF THREE-TENTHS
OF A PERCENT EACH FOR EMPLOYEES AND EMPLOYERS OF COVERED
WAGES
THE ALTERNATIVE WOULD HAVE BEEN TO LIMIT THE
EXPECTED INCREASES IN RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY BENEFITS
-8-
THIS PROPOSED TAX INCREASE WILL HELP STABILIZE
THE TRUST FUND so THAT CURRENT AND FUTURE RECIPIENTS
WILL BE ASSURED OF RECEIVING THE BENEFITS THEY ARE
ENTITLED TO
-9-
I AM ALSO VERY CONCERNED ABOUT THE EFFECT OF
CATASTROPHIC ILLNESS
I WANT TO LIGHTEN THE FINANCIAL
BURDEN WHICH NOW STRIKES AFTER PROLONGED HOSPITALIZATION
WHEN THE ELDERLY AND THEIR FAMILIES CAN LEAST AFFORD IT
THEREFORE, I AM PROPOSING CATASTROPHIC HEALTH INSURANCE
FOR THE MORE THAN 24 MILLION AGED AND DISABLED AMERICANS
PROTECTED BY MEDICARE®
QERALD FORD LIBRARY
-10-
NO ONE WHO IS COVERED BY MEDICARE WOULD HAVE
TO PAY MORE THAN 500 DOLLARS A YEAR FOR COVERED HOSPITAL
OR NURSING HOME CARE.
NO ONE WHO IS COVERED BY
MEDICARE WOULD HAVE TO PAY MORE THAN 250 DOLLARS FOR
ONE YEAR'S DOCTORS' BILLS®
-11-
BENEFICIARIES AND THEIR PHYSICIANS NOW HAVE
LITTLE INCENTIVE TO LIMIT THE DURATION OF HOSPITALIZATION
FOR LESS SERIOUS CONDITIONS.
-12-
TO ENCOURAGE ECONOMIC USE OF COVERED HEALTH
SERVICES, I AM ALSO PROPOSING CHANGES IN THE COST SHARING
REQUIREMENTS.
AS UNDER THE CURRENT SYSTEM,
A BENEFICIARY WHO IS IN THE HOSPITAL WILL PAY 104
DOLLARS FOR THE FIRST DAY OF SERVICES®
-13-
IN ADDITION HE OR SHE WILL PAY 10 PERCENT OF ADDITIONAL
CHARGES UP TO AN ANNUAL MAXIMUM OF 500 DOLLARS
FOR COVERED PHYSICIANS' SERVICES MY PROPOSAL WOULD INCREASE
THE ANNUAL DEDUCTIBLE FROM 60 DOLLARS TO 77 DOLLARS AND
WOULD CONTINUE THE CURRENT 20 PERCENT COST SHARING
-14-
TO HELP FINANCE THE ADDED PROTECTION,
I AM PROPOSING TO LIMIT MEDICARE REIMBURSEMENT RATES
TO 7 PERCENT FOR HOSPITAL SERVICES AND 4 PERCENT
FOR PHYSICIANS' SERVICES
-15-
THESE PROPOSALS ARE OF PARTICULAR IMPORTANCE
IN ACHIEVING MY GOAL OF HELPING ALL AMERICANS LIVE IN
DIGNITY, SECURITY AND GOOD HEALTH
I HOPE YOU WILL JOIN:
IN EFFORTS TO SECURE CONGRESSIONAL PASSAGE OF THESE
PROPOSALS
-16-
WE MUST SHOW OUR COMMITMENT TO A CAUSE
THAT IS TOO OFTEN NEGLECTED -- THE DIGNITY AND WELL-BEING
OF AMERICA'S OLDER GENERATION
END OF TEXT
EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE
February 9, 1976
UNTIL 12:00 NOON (EST)
(Corrected
February 10, 1976)
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
FACT SHEET
THE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE ON OLDER AMERICANS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
I.
Social Security Amendments of 1976
1
Background
1
Description
2
Tax Increase for Employees/Employers
2
Tax Increase for Self-Employed
3
Cost Effects
4
Other Provisions
4
II. Medicare Improvements of 1976
6
Background
6
Description
6
A. Catastrophic Cost Protection for
6
Health Care
B. Cost Sharing Modifications
6
C. Reimbursement Limits
7
Further Description of Elements of Program
7
A. Catastrophic Protection
7
B. Benefit Package
7
C. Cost Sharing
8
D. Provider Reimbursement
10
E. Cost Estimates
10
F. Number of Persons Covered
11
III. Older Americans Act
12
Description, by Title
12
GERALO FORD LIBRARY
THE PRESIDENT's MESSAGE ON OLDER AMERICANS
The President's message to Congress today referred to two
proposals dealing with income and health security for the
aged and stated his continuing support for programs delivering
services to the elderly under the Older Americans Act.
I.
SOCIAL SECURITY AMENDMENTS OF 1976
To assist in protecting the financial integrity of the Social
Security system, the President is proposing to increase the
Social Security Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance
(OASDI) tax rate by 0.3 percent each for employers and em--
ployees, and by 0.9 percent for the self-employed, beginning
January 1, 1977. This increase would be divided between the
OASI trust fund, which would receive 0.175 percent, and the
DI trust fund, which would receive 0.125 percent.
In addition, provisions are included to phase out benefits
for 18-22 year old full-time students, to change the Social
Security retirement test from a limit on monthly earnings to
a limit on annual earnings with no change in the amounts in-
volved, and to eliminate the payment of monthly Social Security
benefits for the months before a person files a claim if future
monthly benefits would be permanently reduced as a result.
BACKGROUND
The Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance (OASDI) trust
funds are paying out more in benefits than their current payroll
tax receipts. This is largely due to increased benefits in the
past few years and payroll tax receipts, which have lagged be--
cause of unemployment and slowed wage growth.
In 1975, the expenditures of the OASDI program exceeded income
to the program by $1.8 billion. Outgo is expected to exceed
income by more than $4 billion in 1976. Under present tax rates,
the OASDI funds will continue to pay out more than they take
in in all subsequent years until they are exhausted in the 1980's.
At present, it is possible to make up the shortfall in income
by spending assets of the trust funds. Additional income is
needed within the next few years, however, to prevent the trust
fund assets from falling below an acceptable level -- and
ultimately being exhausted.
The following table illustrates the projected status of the
combined OASDI trust funds under two different sets of economic
assumptions if no additional revenue is provided to the funds:
more
2
Status of OASDI Trust Funds-Present Law
(Dollars in billions)
1977 Budget Assumptions
1975 Social Security
Trustees Report Assumptions
Assets
Assets
beginning of year
beginning of year
Calendar
Income
as % of outgo
Income
as % of outgo
Year
Minus Outgo
during year
Minus Outgo
during year
1977
$.4.1
46%
$-5.0
44%
1978
-4.3
37
-5.8
33
1979
-3.4
29
-6.2
25
1980
-2.6
24
7.0
18
1981
-2.0
20
--9.0
11
To prevent the rapid decline of the Social Security trust funds
over the next few years, the choices are either to restrain in-
creases in retirement and disability benefits or to increase
revenues.
DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM
The President has included a full cost of living increase in
Social Security benefits in his FY 1977 budget. To improve
the future financial stability of the Social Security system,
the President proposed, effective January 1, 1977, a payroll
tax increase of percent each for employees and employers
of covered wages. Also, the OASDI tax rate for the self-
employed would be restored to a level equal to 1-1/2 times
the employee rate.
The current Social Security tax rate is 5.85% for each employee
and employer of covered wages. Under this proposal, the tax
rate in 1977 would be 6.15% on a maximum wage base of $16,500.
This increase will cost workers with the maximum taxable in-
come less than $1 a week and will help stabilize the trust
funds so that current and future recipients can be assured of
the benefits that they have earned.
The following table shows the Social Security tax rates for
employees and employers each under present law and under the
proposal. It includes the Medicare Hospital Insurance (HI)
tax in order to show the effect of the proposal on total
Social Security tax rates.
Social Security Tax Rates
Present Law
Proposal
Calendar
Year
OASDI
HI
Total
OASDI
HI
Total
1976
4.95%
.9%
5.85%
4.95%
.9%
5.85%
1977
4.95
.9
5.85
5.25
.9
6.15
1978-80
4.95
1.1
6.05
5.25
1.1
6.35
1981-85
4.95
1.35
6.30
5.25
1.35
6.60
1986-2010
4.95
1.50
6.45
5.25
1.50
6.75
2011+
5.95
1.50
7.45
6.25
1.50
7.75
more
3
The following table shows the additional income, over what would
be produced by present law tax rates, and the ratios of trust
fund assets to outgo that would result from the proposed 0.3%
rate increase. For purposes of comparison, the information is
shown on the basis of the economic assumptions used in the 1977
budget and also on the basis of the earlier assumptions used in
the 1975 Social Security Board of Trustees' Report.
Cost Effect of 0.3% Increase
(Dollars in billions)
1977 Budget
1975 Trustees
Assumptions
Assumptions
Assets
Assets
beginning of year
beginning of year
Calendar Additional as % of outgo
Additional
as % of outgo
Year
Income
during year
Income
during year
1977
$ 4.4
46%
$ 4.4
44%
1978
5.2
41
5.2
39
1979
5.9
39
5.7
36
1980
6.5
38
6.3
34
1981
7.1
40
6.9
32
The effect of the proposal on taxes paid by employers and em---
ployees is at maximum an increase of less than $1.00 per week.
The following table shows the taxes paid by employees at various
earnings levels in 1976 and the amounts they would pay in 1977
under present law and under the proposal.
Social Security Taxes for Employers and Employees,
Each, under Present Law and under the Proposal
1976
1977.
Year's Increase
Earnings
over
Level
Present Law
Proposal
Present Law
$ 5,000
$292.50
$292.50
$ 307.50
$15.00
7,500
438.75
438.75
461.25
22.50
10,000
585.00
585.00
615.00
30.00
Maximum
895.05
965.25
1,014.75
49.50
The following table shows the Social Security tax rates for
OASDI for employees and employers, each, and for the self-
employed under the present law and under the proposal.
Employees and
Calendar
Employers (Each)
Self-Employed
Year
Present Law
Proposal
Present Law
Proposal
1976
4.95%
4.95%
7.0%
7.9%
1977
4.95
5.25
7.0
7.9
1978-80
4.95
5.25
7.0
7.9
1981-85
4.95
5.25
7.0
7.9
1986-2010
4.95
5.25
7.0
7.9
2011 +
5.95
6.25
7.0
9.4
1/ $15,300 for 1976; projected to increase automatically
under present law to $16,500 for 1977 under 1977 budget
assumptions.
more
4
The following table shows present and proposed allocation to
the DI trust fund for employees and employers combined and
for the self-employed.
Employees and Employers, Combined
Self-Employed
Calendar
Present
Present
Year
Law
Proposal
Law
Proposal
1977
1.15%
1.40%
0.815%
1.055%
1978-80
1.20
1.45
0.850
1.090
1981-85
1.30
1.55
0.920
1.165
1986.2010
1.40
1.65
0.990
1.240
2011+
1.70
1.95
1.000
1.465
COST EFFECT
The following table shows the additional income, over what
would be produced by present law tax rates, that would result
from the proposed 0.3% rate increase, on the basis of the
economic assumptions used in the 1977 budget.
Additional Income
as a Result of
Calendar
0.3% Increase
Year
(billions)
1977
$ 4.5
1978
5.7
1979
6.3
1980
7.0
1981
7.7
1977-81
31.2
The following table shows the yearly increase under the
proposed 0.9 percent rate increase for the self-employed
on the basis of the economic assumptions used in the
FY 1977 budget.
OASDHI Taxes for the Self-Employed
under Present Law and under a Proposal
to Increase the Rate to 1.5 Times the Employee Rate
1976
1977
Increase
Earnings
Over
Level
Present Law
Proposal
Present Law
$ 5,000
$ 395.00
$ 395.00
$
440.00
$ 45.00
7,500
592.50
592.50
660.00
67.50
10,000
790.00
790.00
880.00
90.00
Maximum
1,208.70
1,303.50
1,452.00
148.50
OTHER PROVISIONS INCLUDE:
- Phasing out Social Security benefits for students aged
18-22 who are in school full time. The phase out would occur
over 4 years so that no student now receiving benefits would
be eliminated. Federal student grant and loan programs and
other student assistance programs enacted since the student
benefit was included in the Social Security Act provide and
27 $15,300 for 1976; projected to increase automatically to
$16,500 for 1977 under 1977 Budget assumptions.
more
5
make available a wide range of funds for educational support.
Savings to the Social Security system from this phase out are
approximately $300 million in FY 1977.
---- Changing the Social Security retirement test from a limit
on monthly earnings to a limit on annual earnings with no change
in the amounts involved. This change would eliminate current
inequitable treatment for those who receive earnings in some
months but not in others, as opposed to those who receive
comparable earnings spread equally in each month.
--- Eliminating the payment of monthly Social Security benefits
for the months before a person files a claim if future monthly
benefits would be permanently reduced as a result. Faced with
a choice between a large lump-sum payment and a reduction of
future benefits, beneficiaries in many cases prejudice their
longer run income. This result is considered inconsistent with
the purposes of the Social Security Act.
more
6
II. MEDICARE IMPROVEMENTS OF 1976
The President is proposing significant modifications in the
Federal Medicare program to provide catastrophic health cost
protection to Medicare beneficiaries, changes in cost sharing
requirements, and limits on the annual cost increases which
will be reimbursed by Medicare.
BACKGROUND
The Nation's health care system continues to be one of the
most inflationary sectors of the economy. Hospital costs have
risen by more than 200 percent since 1965 (from $40/day to
$128/day), and physicians' fees have risen more than 85% in
the same period. Both rates of increase are significantly
higher than the corresponding increases in the consumer price
index.
Medicare is a major component of Federal health spending. It
provides protection to more than 24 million aged and disabled
Americans, and is expected to pay out more than $17 billion
for health care in 1976. However, Medicare has several
failings --- it does not provide protection against the catas--
trophic financial burden of extended illness, and it does not
include adequate restraints on the increases in the costs of
health care.
For hospital care, Medicare currently pays nothing for the
first day, 100% of costs from the 2nd through the 60th day,
a reduced percentage through the 150th day, and nothing at
all after that. This pattern serves to lengthen short-term
hospital stays, but can lead to financial ruin for persons
suffering serious, extended illness. Medicare also requires
a $60 deductible and co-payments of 20% for physicians'
services. Since there is no annual maximum, this provision
contributes to the financial burden of catastrophic health
costs.
An additional problem with Medicare is that it contains
inadequate mechanisms to control health inflation. Like
most health insurance plans, it reimburses largely on the
basis of actual costs or customary charges giving providers
insufficient cause to seek to limit cost increases.
DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM
The major elements of the proposed "Medicare Improvements of
1976 are the following:
A. Catastrophic Cost Protection for Health Care
For the first time, Medicare beneficiaries would be
provided protection against catastrophic health costs
by limiting the amounts an individual must pay an-
nually to $500 for covered hospital and nursing home
care and $250 for covered physicians' services. These
limits will be allowed to increase in future years in
proportion to increases in cash benefits.
B. Cost Sharing Modifications
- Hospital Costs (Part A). Part A benefits would
be expanded to provide unlimited hospital and skilled
nursing facility (SNF) days. Under this proposal,
beneficiaries would be required to pay a deductible for
the first day of a hospital stay (as under current law),
and 10% of additional charges up to an annual maximum
of $500 for all covered Part A services.
more
7
-- Physicians' Services (Part B). This proposal
would increase the current annual deductible of $60
to $77 and maintain the existing co-payment of 20%
for physicians' services. However, it would institute
a maximum of $250 a year. The deductible would in-
crease with Social Security benefit increases. It
would also establish a coinsurance of 10% of all
charges above the deductible for all hospital-based
physician and Part B home health charges.
C. Reimbursement Limits
Annual Medicare reimbursement increases would be
limited to 7% for Part A provided per diem or per
visit costs and 4% for physicians' service charges
in 1977 and 1978.
Detailed Explanation
A. CATASTROPHIC PROTECTION
Service
Current Law
President's Proposal
Part A
No maximum liability
$500 annual maximum
limit on out-of-pocket
liability limit for
expenses for covered
all covered services
services.
in 1976 and 1977, in-
creased in future
years in proportion to
increases in cash
benefits. All out-
of-pocket expenses
incurred in the last
month of calendar year
can be carried forward
to next year.
Part B
No maximum liability
$250 annual maximum
limit on out-of-pocket
liability limit for
expenses for covered
all covered services
services.
in 1977, increased in
future years in pro-
portion to increases
in cash benefits.
Same one month carry-
over as Part A. Out-
of-pocket expenses
for charges in excess
of reasonable charges
do not count toward
the maximum liability
limit.
B.
BENEFIT PACKAGE
1. Medicare Part A
Service
Current Law
President's Proposal
a. Hospital
90 days per benefit
Unlimited days.
days
period plus 60 days
(except
of life-time reserve.
in psy-
chiatric
hospitals)
more
8
b. Psychiatric
190 lifetime days.
Same as current law.
hospital
days.
c. Skilled
100 days per
Unlimited days.
nursing
benefit period.
facility
(SNF) days.
d. Post-
100 visits per
100 visits in year
hospital
benefit period
following hospital
home health
following hospi-
or SNF discharge.
visits.
tal or SNF
discharge.
2. Medicare Part B
No change in current coverage which has no upper
limits on most covered services.
Home health services would continue to be limited
to 100 visits per year and outpatient psychiatric
services to no more than $500 of reasonable charges
per year and out-patient physical therapy services
provided by a self-employed therapist to no more
than $100 in reasonable charges per year.
C. COST SHARING
1. Medicare Part A
Service
Current Law
President's Proposal
a. Hospital Services
Deductible
$104 for initial
$104 per admission,
hospitalization in
and allowed to rise
each benefit period
annually. Deductible
beginning in 1976
waived if Medicare
(based on average
covered inpatient
daily hospital
services were received
costs in 1974) and
within 60 days prior
rising annually to
to admission.
reflect increases
in hospital costs.
Coinsurance
An amount equal to
10% of hospital
1/4 of the deduc-
charges above the
tible for days
deductible.
61-90 in a benefit
period and 1/2 of
the deductible for
the 60 lifetime
reserve days.
b. SNF Services
Deductible
None
None
Coinsurance
None for the first
10% of charges.
20 days. An amount
equal to 1/8 of the
hospital deductible
for days 21-100.
more
9
Service
Current Law
President's Proposal
C. Home Health Services
Deductible
None.
None.
Coinsurance
None.
10% of charges.
d. Blood
Deductible
3 pints per benefit 3 pints per year.
period.
2. Medicare Part B
Service
Current Law
President's Proposal
a. Physician,
outpatient
hospital care,
outpatient
physical
therapy and
speech path-
ology,
laboratory
services,
medical
supplies and
most other
covered
services.
Deductible
$60 per calendar
$77 in 1977,
year.
and increased in
future years in pro-
portion to increases
in cash benefits.
Coinsurance
20% of reasonable
Same.
charges above the
deductible.
b. Hospital-
based
physicians
(inpatient
pathology
and radiology)
Deductible
None.
None.
Coinsurance
None.
10% of charges.
c. Home Health
Services
Deductible
Included among
Included among services
services subject
subject to $77 deduc-
to $60 per calen-
tible in 1977.
dar year
deductible.
Coinsurance
None.
10% of charges.
more
10
Service
Current Law
President's Proposal
d. Outpatient
50% of reasonable
Same as current law.
psychiatric
charges (up to
services.
maximum reim-
bursement of
$250).
D.
PROVIDER REIMBURSEMENT
Provider
Current Law
President's Proposal
Hospitals,
Reimbursed on
Places a 7% reimburse-
SNF's and
the basis of
ment limitation on
home health
reasonable costs.
the annual rates of
agencies.
(Level of reim-
increases in per diem
bursement for
hospital and SNF costs
hospital per diem
and home health visit
routine costs is
costs."
limited to the
80th percentile
of the per diem
routine costs of
similar hospitals.)
Physicians and
Reimbursed on the
Limits reimbursable
other medical
basis of customary
increases in reason-
services.
and prevailing
able charges (the
charges. (Rates
lesser of the cus.
of increase in
tomary and prevailing
prevailing charges
charges) to 4 percent
are limited by an
per year. *
economic index re
flecting practice
costs and earnings
levels in the
economy )
* Both the 7% cost and 4% charge increase limitations
are proposed for two years pending the development
of a longer run cost containment policy.
E. COST ESTIMATES
The following are the estimated cost increases attributable to
the new catastrophic protection and the cost savings attribu.
table to reforms in cost sharing and limits in reimbursement.
The additional costs are estimated to range between $1.1
billion and $1.4 billion. The cost sharing reform is estimatec
to save about $1.8 billion and the reimbursement limits to save
about $900 million. The savings from placing a limit on in-
creases in medicare repayment rates and some of the revenues
from increased cost sharing will be used to finance the
catastrophic program.
FY 77 (in millions
Costs
of dollars)
1. Catastrophic protection
a.
Hospital Insurance
.... Initial estimate of cost
*
+330
of $500 limit in FY 77
budget.
more
11
FY 77 (in millions
Costs
of dollars)
---- Additions based on
+590 to 890
refinement of cost
of $500 limit.
b. Supplementary Medical Insurance
-- $250 limit
+208*
Total Cost
+$1,128 to $1,428
* Shown in President's budget request.
FY 77 (in millions
Savings
of dollars)
1. Cost Sharing Reforms
a. Hospital Insurance
-- 10% coinsurance
(-)1,730*
b. Supplementary Medical Insurance
--- Dynamic deductible ($77)
(-) 111*
-- Coinsurance on hospital
based physicians and
Part B home health services
(-) 19*
Subtotal
(-)1,860*
2. Reimbursement limits
a. Hospital Insurance
-- limited to 7% per diem increase (-)730*
b. Supplementary Medical Insurance
--- limited to 4% charge increase
(-)179*
Subtotal
(-)909*
Total Savings (-)$1,641 to (-)$1,341
*Shown in President's budget request.
F. NUMBER OF PERSONS COVERED, FY 77
Service
Current Law
President's Proposal
Part A
Enrollees
24,900,000
Same
Users
5,900,000
Same
Users Assisted by
$500 limit
NA
1,200,000
Part B
Enrollees
24,600,000
Same
Users meeting the
deductible
14,200.000
12,200,000
Users Assisted by
$250 limit
NA
2,000,000
more
12
III. OLDER AMERICANS ACT
The Older Americans Act was initially enacted in 1965 and
has been subsequently amended in 1967, 1969, 1972, 1973,
1974, and the most recent amendments were signed into law by
the President in November, 1975,
BACKGROUND
The major objective of the Older Americans Act is to bring
into being a system of coordinated comprehensive services at
the community level designed to enable older persons to live
independent lives in their own homes or other places of
residence and to participate in the life of their community.
To achieve this objective, the Older Americans Act provides
authorization for a national network on aging. This national
network is composed of a State Agency on Aging in each State
and Territory and the District of Columbia. 489 Area Agencies
on Aging, 700 nutrition projects and the advisory committees
to the State and Area Agencies on Aging and the nutrition
projects.
DESCRIPTION OF ACT
Major sections of the Act designed to achieve the Act's overall
objective include:
Title III: Provides support to State Agencies on Aging
and through them, Area Agencies on Aging for
the development of coordinated comprehensive
service systems designed to enable older
persons to live in their own homes or other
places of residence.
This Title provides funds (1) for the support of
State Agencies on Aging and (2) for the support
of Area Agencies on Aging and social services
provided by those agencies.
States receive funds under Title III on a formula
basis based upon approval by the Commissioner on
Aging of an annual State Plan submitted by the
Governor.
Primary emphasis is placed on meeting the needs
of low income and minority older persons. Prior
to submitting the annual State Plan, the State
must hold a public hearing on it. The State
Plan designates within the State planning and
service areas and identifies those areas in which
Area Agencies on Aging will be established.
Currently, States have identified 585 such plan
ning and service areas and indicated that 489 Area
Agencies will be in operation.
The Area Agencies which may be public or private
organizations receive their funds from the State
Agencies on Aging based on an annual area plan
approved by the State Agency. A public hearing
must be held on this plan before it can be sub...
mitted to the State.
more
13
The States must utilize at least 20% of their
Title III funds for four national priority
services: transportation, home care, legal
services, and home repair. In addition, as
additional resources become available under
Title III States must use 50% of the new
funds for the priority services. This re-
quirement will no longer be operative when
the States reach the point where they are
utilizing 33-1/3% of their funds for these
four priority services.
Section 308 of Title III provides for a model
projects program designed to demonstrate new
or innovative means of meeting the needs of
older persons. This section of the law is
administered directly by the Administration
on Aging.
Title VII: Provides funds to the States for the operation of
nutrition programs designed to provide hot,
nutritious meals in congregate settings to older
persons.
States receive funds for this program on a
formula basis after the Commissioner on Aging
has approved their annual State Plan submitted
by the Governor. Primary emphasis is placed on
meeting the needs of low income and minority
older persons. Currently this program provides
support for 700 nutrition projects that serve
approximately 300,000 means a day, five days a
week, at over 4900 community sites located in
churches, senior centers, and schools.
Eighty seven percent of these meals are provided
in congregate settings; 13% are home delivered.
More than 60,000 volunteers provide their as
sistance to this program.
Surplus commodities are contributed to the
program at the rate of fifteen cents a meal
during this Fiscal Year. This rate will increase
to 25c a meal in Fiscal Year 1977.
An important provision in the 1975 amendments to the Act authorizes
State or Area Agencies on Aging to enter into agreements for the
purpose of meeting the common needs for transportation services
of older persons and other segments of the population.
Several other recent actions have taken place designed to help
meet these transportation needs.
-- The Administration on Aging and the Department of
Transportation have entered into a working agreement
which has resulted and will continue to result in im-
proved coordination of transportation services for
older persons.
-- $20.8 million of Fiscal Year 1975 Urban Mass Transporta-
tion Administration funds were allotted for capital
assistance grants to nonprofit corporations and
organizations to serve the transportation needs of
older persons and the handicapped. The Department of
Transportation will release $22 million for this
purpose in Fiscal Year 1976.
more
14
- Approximately 45 projects in 31 States have been
selected under the Rural Highway Public Transportation
Demonstration Program in Fiscal Year 1975. A major
criterion for project selection is that the projects be
adaptable to the needs of older persons and the
handicapped.
- The first formula allotments have been made to the
States under the Section 5 Capital Assistance Formula
Grant Program of the National Mass Transportation Act of
1974. A section of the Act specifies that recipients of
funds must provide for reduced fares for the elderly
and the handicapped.
The Administration on Aging has made awards to 47 State Agencies
on Aging for the purpose of promoting and developing ombudsman
services for residents of nursing homes. The objective of these
services is to establish a process at the community level which
will be responsive to complaints from residents or relatives of
older persons in Skilled Nursing Facilities and Intermediate
Care Facilities. Activities are now underway at the State and
local levels to achieve this purpose. The 1975 amendments to
the Act authorize the Administration on Aging to continue
such programs.
####
OLDER AMERICANS MONTH, 1976
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
The past few years have reminded us of the much
needed lesson that we must preserve our precious natural
resources. The collective wisdom, experience, and pro-
ductive abilities of our older citizens are among our
greatest natural resources.
We are becoming more aware of the importance of
the contributions our older workers have made in the
past. And we are increasing our efforts to ensure that
our older citizens have the opportunity for security
of income, maintenance of health, and continuing usefulness.
The Bicentennial Charter for Older Americans prepared
by the Federal Council on Aging Again describes those Rights
and Obligations.
Respect for our older citizens is important. The
opportunities we give them to take pride in themselves
is no less important.
The job market and volunteer service provide some
of the best opportunities for utilizing the resources
benefiting from
possessed by Older Americans. Unfortunately, older
and even middle-aged workers are too often the victims
of myths and prejudices regarding their capabilities.
Our society needs the know-how, experience, judgment,
and eagerness these solid citizens bring to the job.
2
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GERALD R. FORD, President of
the United States of America, do hereby designate the
month of May, 1976, as Older Americans Month.
I urge all organizations concerned with employment
and volunteer service to observe this month with appro-
priate ceremonies, activities, and programs designed
to increase employment and volunteer opportunities for
older persons. Such programs should include public
forums for discussion of the Bicentennial Charter for
Older Americans.
I ask all Americans to reflect upon the achieve-
ments and the needs of our older citizens and to do all
in their power to make these years something to welcome.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand
this
day of
,
in the year of our
Lord nineteen hundred seventy-six, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundredth.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEBRUARY 9, 1976
OFFICE OF THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT
AT THE SIGNING CEREMONY
OF THE
OLDER AMERICANS MESSAGE
THE OVAL OFFICE
10:05 A.M. EST
Today I am sending a Message to the Congress that
expressed my confidence and support of older Americans, my
very deep concern about the problems of the aging and my
proposals for dealing with the problems involving them.
Society owes a very deep debt of gratitude to all older
persons who have worked hard and contributed significantly
to our Nation's progress.
Older Americans continue to enrich our lives with
their vision, strength and experience. They have earned the
right to live securely, comfortably and independently. The
proposals that I am sending to the Congress offer significant.
improvements in the quality of life for all older Americans.
We all have a great stake in fighting inflation,
but older Americans living on fixed incomes are especially
hard hit. I pledge to continue the fight against inflation,
to provide special relief to the elderly.
I am requesting in my budget for fiscal year 1977
that the full cost of living increase in Social Security
benefits are paid during the coming year. The value of the
Social Security system is beyond challenge. I am concerned,
however, about the integrity of the Social Security Trust
Fund that enables people to count on this source of retirement
income. I am concerned because the system now pays out more
in benefits than it receives in tax payments.
To prevent a rapid decline in the Trust Fund over
the next few years I had to make a very difficult decision.
I am proposing a small payroll tax increase of three-tenths
of one percent each for employees as well as employers of
covered wages. The alternative would have been to limit
expected increases in retirement and disability payments.
This proposed tax increase will help to stabilize the Trust
Fund so that current and future recipients will be fully
assured of receiving the benefits they are entitled to.
MORE
Page 2
I am also very concerned about the effect of
catastrophic illnesses. I want to lighten the financial
burden which now strikes after prolonged hospitalization --
When the elderly and their families can least afford it.
Therefore, I am proposing catastrophic health insurance
for the more than 24 million Americans and disabled Americans
protected by Medicare.
No one who is covered by Medicare would have to pay
more than $500 a year for covered hospitalization or nursing
home care. No one who is covered by Medicare would have
to pay more than $250 for one year's doctor bills. Beneficiaries
and their physicials now have little incentive to limit the
duration of hospitalization for less serious conditions.
To encourage economic use of covered health services
I am also proposing changes in cost sharing arrangements.
As under the current system, a beneficiary who is in the
hospital will pay $104 a day for the first day of hospital
services. In addition, he or she will pay ten percent of
additional charges up to an annual maximum of $500. For
covered services my proposal would increase the annual
deductible from $60 to $77 and would continue the current
20 percent cost sharing.
To help finance the added protection, I am proposing
to limit Medicare reimbursement rates to 7 percent for
hospital services and 4 percent for physician services. These
proposals are of particular importance in achieving my goal of
helping all Americans live in dignity, security and good
health.
I hope you will join me in efforts to secure
Congressional passage of these important proposals.
We must show our commitment to a cause that is
often too long neglected--the dignity and well-being of
America's older generations.
I will now sign the Messages to the Congress -- one
to the House and one to the Senate urging that they undertake
the enactment of this necessary legislation.
Thank you very much.
END
(AT 10:20 A.M. EST)
EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE
February 9, 1976
UNTIL 12 P.M. (EST)
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1976
Office of the White House Press Secretary
THE WHITE HOUSE
TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:
I ask the Congress to join with me in making improvements
in programs serving the elderly.
As President, I intend to do everything in my power to
help our nation demonstrate by its deeds a deep concern for
the dignity and worth of our older persons. By so doing,
our nation will continue to benefit from the contributions
that older persons can make to the strengthening of our
nation.
The proposals being forwarded to Congress are directly
related to the health and security of older Americans.
Their prompt enactment will demonstrate our concern that
lifetimes of sacrifice and hard work conclude in hope
rather than despair.
The single greatest threat to the quality of life of
older Americans is inflation. Our first priority continues
to be the fight against inflation. We have been able to
reduce by nearly half the double digit inflation experienced
in 1974. But the retired, living on fixed incomes, have
been particularly hard hit and the progress we have made
in reducing inflation has not benefited them enough.
We
will continue our efforts to reduce federal spending,
balance the budget and reduce taxes. The particular
vulnerability of the aged to the burdens of inflation,
however, requires that specific improvements be made in
two major Federal programs Social Security and Medicare.
We must begin by insuring that the Social Security
system is beyond challenge. Maintaining the integrity of
the system is a vital obligation each generation has to
those who have worked hard and contributed to it all their
lives. I strongly reaffirm my commitment to a stable and
financially sound Social Security system. My 1977 budget
and legislative program include several elements which I
believe are essential to protect the solvency and integrity
of the system.
First, to help protect our retired and disabled citizens
against the hardships of inflation, my budget request to the
Congress includes a full cost of living increase in Social
Security benefits, to be effective with checks received in
July 1976. This will help maintain the purchasing power
of 32 million Americans.
Second, to insure the financial integrity of the Social
Security trust funds, I am proposing legislation to increase
payroll taxes by three-tenths of one percent each for
employees and employers. This increase will cost no worker
more
(OVER)
GERALD FORD UBRARY
2
more than $1 a week, and most will pay less. These additional
revenues are needed to stabilize the trust funds so that
current income will be certain to either equal or exceed
current outgo.
Third, to avoid serious future financing problems I will
submit later this year a change in the Social Security laws
to correct a serious flaw in the current system. The current
formula which determines benefits for workers who retire in
the future does not properly reflect wage and price fluctuations.
This is an inadvertent error which could lead to unnecessarily
inflated benefits.
The change I am proposing will not affect cost of living
increases in benefits after retirement, and will in no way
alter the benefit levels of current recipients. On the other
hand, it will protect future generations against unnecessary
costs and excessive tax increases.
I believe that the prompt enactment of all of these
proposals is necessary to maintain a sound Social Security
system and to preserve its financial integrity.
Income security is not our only concern. We need to
focus also on the special health care needs of our elder
citizens. Medicare and other Federal health programs have
been successful in improving access to quality medical care
for the aged. Before the inception of Medicare and Medicaid
in 1966, per capita health expenditures for our aged were
$445 per year. Just eight years later, in FY 1974, per
capita health expenditures for the elderly had increased
to $1218, an increase of 174 percent. But despite the
dramatic increase in medical services made possible by
public programs, some problems remain.
There are weaknesses in the Medicare program which must
be corrected. Three particular aspects of the current
program concern me: 1) its failure to provide our elderly
with protection against catastrophic illness costs, 2) the
serious effects that health care cost inflation is having on
the Medicare program, and 3) lack of incentives to encourage
efficient and economical use of hospital and medical services.
My proposal addresses each of these problems.
In my State of the Union Message I proposed protection
against catastrophic health expenditures for Medicare bene-
ficiaries. This will be accomplished in two ways. First, I
propose extending Medicare benefits by providing coverage
for unlimited days of hospital and skilled nursing facility
care for beneficiaries. Second I propose to limit the
out-of-pocket expenses of beneficiaries, for covered services,
to $500 per year for hospital and skilled nursing services
and $250 per year for physician and other non-institutional
medical services.
This will mean that each year over a billion dollars of
benefit payments will be targeted for handling the financial
burden of prolonged illness. Millions of older persons live
in fear of being stricken by an illness that will call for
expensive hospital and medical care over a long period of
time. Most often they do not have the resources to pay the
bills. The members of their families share their fears
because they also do not have the resources to pay such
more
3
large bills. We have been talking about this problem for
many years. We have it within our power to act now so that
today's older persons will not be forced to live under this
kind of a shadow. I urge the Congress to act promptly
Added steps are needed to slow down the inflation of
health costs and to help in the financing of this catastrophic
protection. Therefore, I am recommending that the Congress
limit increases in medicare payment rates in 1977 and 1978
to 7% a day for hospitals and 4% for physician services.
Additional cost-sharing provisions are also needed to
encourage economical use of the hospital and medical services
included under Medicare. Therefore, I am recommending that
patients pay 10% of hospital and nursing home charges after
the first day and that the existing deductible for medical
services be increased from $60 to $77 annually.
The savings from placing a limit on increases in
medicare payment rates and some of the revenue from increased
cost sharing will be used to finance the catastrophic illness
program.
I feel that, on balance, these proposals will provide
our elder citizens with protection against catastrophic
illness costs, promote efficient utilization of services,
and moderate the increases in health care costs.
The legislative proposals which I have described are
only part of the over-all effort we are making on behalf of
older Americans. Current conditions call for continued and
intensified action on a broad front.
We have made progress in recent years. We have responded,
for example, to recommendations made at the 1971 White House
Conference on Aging. A Supplemental Security Income program
was enacted. Social Security benefits have been increased in
accord with increases in the cost of living. The Social
Security retirement test was liberalized. Many inequities
in payments to women have been eliminated. The 35 million
workers who have earned rights in private pension plans now
have increased protection.
In addition we have continued to strengthen the Older
Americans Act. I have supported the concept of the Older
Americans Act since its inception in 1965, and last November
signed the most recent amendments into law.
A key component of the Older Americans Act is the
national network on aging which provides a solid foundation
on which action can be based. I am pleased that we have
been able to assist in setting up this network of 56 State
and 489 Area Agencies on Aging, and 700 local nutrition
agencies. These local nutrition agencies for example
provide 300,000 hot meals a day five days a week.
The network provides a structure which can be used to
attack other important problems. A concern of mine is that
the voice of the elderly, as consumers, be heard in the
governmental decision-making process. The network on aging
more
4
offers opportunities for this through membership on advisory
councils related to State and Area Agencies on Aging,
Nutrition Project Agencies and by participation in public
hearings on the annual State and Area Plans. Such involvement
can and will have a significant impact on determining what
services for the aging are to be given the highest priorities
at the local level.
The principal goal of this National Network on Aging
is to bring into being coordinated comprehensive systems
for the provision of service to the elderly at the community
level. I join in the call for hard and creative work at all
levels --- Federal, State and Area in order to achieve this
objective. I am confident that progress can be made.
Toward this end, the Administration on Aging and a
number of Federal Departments and agencies have signed
agreements which will help to make available to older
persons a fair share of the Federal funds available in
such areas as housing, transportation, social services
law enforcement, adult education and manpower --- resources
which can play a major role in enabling older persons to
continue to live in their own homes.
Despite these efforts, however, five percent of our
older men and women require the assistance provided by
skilled nursing homes and other long term care facilities.
To assist these citizens, an ombudsman process, related
solely to the persons in these facilities, is being put
into operation by the National Network on Aging. We
believe that this program will help to resolve individual
complaints, facilitate important citizen involvement in
the vigorous enforcement of Federal, State and local laws
designed to improve health and safety standards, and to
improve the quality of care in these facilities.
Today's older persons have made invaluable contributions
to the strengthening of our nation. They have provided the
nation with a vision and strength that has resulted in un
precedented advancements in all of the areas of our life.
Our national moral strength is due in no small part to the
significance of their contributions. We must continue and
strengthen both our commitment to doing everything we can
to respond to the needs of the elderly and our determination
to draw on their strengths.
Our entire history has been marked by a tradition of
growth and progress. Each succeeding generation can measure
its progress in part by its ability to recognize, respect and
renew the contributions of earlier generations. I believe
that the Social Security and Medicare improvements I am
proposing, when combined with the action programs under
the Older Americans Act, will insure a measure of progress for
the elderly and thus provide real hope for us all.
GERALD
R.
FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE,
February 9, 1976.
#####
DRAFT
MESSAGE ON THE AGING
LIBRARY GERALD ? FORD
I ask the Congress to join with me in making
improvements in programs serving the elderly.
As President, I intend to do everything within
my power to help our nation demonstrate by its deeds a deep
concern for the dignity and worth of our older persons. By
SO doing, our nation will continue to benefit from the
contributions that olders persons can make to the strength-
ening of our nation.
The proposals being forwarded to Congress are
directly related to the health and security of older Americans.
Their prompt enactment will demonstrate our shared concern that
lifetimes of sacrifice and hard work conclude in hope rather
than despair.
As the Chief Executive I will see to it that
current laws which have an impact on the lives of the elderly,
and the billions of dollars which have been appropriated to
implement them, are administered in such a manner as to
promote the coordination of public and private resources, to
hold expenditures for administration down to a absolute minimum
SO that resources intended for older persons really reach them,
and to provide a compassionate and expeditious handling of
complaints and appeals.
We must make sure that the soundness of the Social
Security system is beyond challenge. Maintaining the integrity
of the system is a vital obligation each generation has to
those who have worked hard and contributed to it all their
lives. I strongly reaffirm my commitment to a stable and
financially sound Social Security system.
My 977 budget
and legislative program include several elements which I
the
of of the system.
believe are essential to protect its solvency and its integrity
1
First, to help protect our retired and disabled
citizens against the hardships of inflation, my budget request
to the Congress includes a full cost of living increase in
Social Security benefits, effective with checks received in
July
1
976.
This will help maintain the purchasing power of 32 million
Americans.
Second, to insure the financial intergrity of the
Social Security trust funds, I am proposing legi3ation to
1
increase payroll taxes by three-tenths of one percent each for
employees and employers. This increase will cost no worker
more than $1 a week, and most will pay less. These additional
revenues are needed to stabilize the trust funds so that
current income will be certain to either equal or exceed current
outgo.
FORD LIBRARY is GERALD
Short
this as an essential step for the years immediately
HP of Rest,
also taking steps to avoid serious future financing
I will submit laterthis yes a chamge in the Social Socurity Pain to
problems
poticet
nown,to
correct
a
A
SERIOUS flaw in the current system. The current formula which determines
DOSS NOT PROPERLY REFLECT
benefits for workers who retire in the future
wage and price fluctuations. This is an inadvertent
which could For lead to unnecessarily inflated premiums.
error, for whish all inflated premiums The change
I am proposing will not affect cost of living increases in
benefits after retirement, and will in no way alter the benefit
levels of current recipients. On the other hand, it will pro-
tect future generations against unnecessary costs and excessive
tax increases. P. I believe that the prompt enactment of these
all of
proposals is necessary to maintain a sound Social Security system
and to preserve its financial integrity.
We need to focus also on
Bak Income security is not our only concern. A The special
health care needs of our elder citizens,
Medicare
and other Federal health programs have been successful in im-
proving access to quality medical care for the aged. Prior Before to
the inception of Medicare and Medicaid in 1966, per capita health
expenditures for our aged were $445 per year. Just eight years
later, in FY 1974, per capital health expenditures for the
elderly had increased to $1218, an increase of 174 percent.
But despite the dramatic increase in medical services made
possible by public programs, some problems remain.
There are
weaknesses in the Medicare program
which must be corrected. Three particular aspects of the CURRENT
program concern me: 1) its failure to provide our
elderly with protection against catastrophic illness costs,
2) the serious effects that health care cost inflation is
over utilization of hospital
having on the Medicare program, and 3), distorted cost sharing
and medical services.
arrang
ements
My proposal address 85 each of these problems.
n
In my State of the Union Message I proposed protection
against catastrophic health expenditures for Medicare bene-
ficiaries. This will be accomplished in two ways. First, I
providing coverage
propose extending Medicare benefits by
payment
for
un-
limited hospital and skilled nursing facility days of care
for beneficiaries. Second, I propose to limit the out-of-
pocket expenses of beneficiaries, for covered services, to
$500 per year for hospital and skilled nursing services and
$250 per year for physician and other non-institutional medical
INSERT A)
services. The financial burden of prolonged il lness can be borne
by very few older people. This proposal will eliminate this
fear from the lives of the elderly and their families,
Added steps are needed to slow down the inflation of
helpin
health costs and to enable the financing of this catastrophic
protection. Therefore, I am recommending that the Congress
This will mean that each year over a billion
dollars of benefit payments will be targeted for
handling the financial burden of prolonged illness.
Millions of older persons live in fear of being
programs, some probl
stricken by an illness that will call for expen-
TOTAL
weaknesses in
sive hospital and medical care over a long period
cted. Three particu
most after they
resources
of time. do not have the pay the
oncern me: 1) its fa
bills. The members of their families share their
stion against catast:
because they Alas
fears
1 do not have the resources to pay the
ects that health car
bills. We have been talking about this problem
care program, and 3)
for many years. We have it within our power to act
proposal address n ea
now so that today's older persons will not
£ the Union Message
be forced to live under this kind of a shadow.
ic health expenditu
I urge the Congress to act promptly.
will be accomplished
Medicare benefits b
and skilled nursing
Second, I propos'
E beneficiaries, fo
hospital and skill
physician and othe
ERT. nancial A) burden of prolonged illness can
E people. This proposal will eliminate this
ves of the elderly and their families...
are needed to slow down the inflation of
to helpin enable the financing of this catastrophic
refore, I am recommending that the Congress
limit increases in medicare payment rates in 1977 and 1978
to 7% day for hospitals and 4% for physician services.
2/50
Additional cost-sharing provisions are needed invorder to
the hospital andmedical
encourage economical use of services for hospitals take tays
included uncles medicare
physic care Therefore, I am recommending
that patients pay 10% of hospital and nursing home charges
after the first day and that the existing deductible for
medical services be increased from $60 to $77 annually.
ip The savings from placing a limit on increases in medicare payment
rates and some of the revenue from increased cost sharing will
illne
be used to finance the catastrophic program.
I feel that, on balance, these proposals will provide our
elder citizens with protection against catastrophic illness
costs, promote efficient utilization of services, and moderate
the increases in health care costs.
dhave described
ONLY
The legislative proposals which
1
malaing
are
but
part
of the over-all effort we are making on behalf of older
Americans.
Lamus
Bwunder
score
that
current
conditions call for continued and intensified action
the ractips on a broad front.
The
We have made progress in recent years.
fighare
responded,
for example, to recommendations made at the 1971 White House
Conference on Aging. towenact A Supplemental Security Income
WAS ENACTED.
hAVE BEEN CRANSED IN
program, increase Social security benefits more than the
ACORD with THE
cost of living. liberalize the social security retirement
WAS LIBERALITED. MANY inequities IN
test A increase Deneficing for delayed retirement, eliminate
hAve BEEN ELIMINATED. THE
some payments to women A and r prote 35 million
workers who have earned rights in private pension plans yow HAVE
INCREASED PROTECTION,
H
In addition we have continued to strengthen the Older
Americans Act. I have supported the concept of the Older
last NOVOMOBR
Americans Act since its inception in 1965, and signed the
most recent amendments into law. Funds
available for programs administered by the Administration on
Aging under this Act have increased from $44.7 million in
FY 1972 to $270 million during the last fiscal year.
A key component of the Older Americans Act is the
national network on aging which provides a solid foundation
on which action can be based. I am pleased that we have been
able to assist in setting up this network of 56 State and
Rocal
489 Area Agencies on Aging, and 700 nutrition agencies.
These nutrition agencies provide 300,000 hot meals a day
five days a week. The system., with the assistance of thousands
Involunteers Termany of whom themselves are older persons --
The network provides a structure through which
other important concerns can be attacked. A
7
concern of mine, for example, is that the voice of
the aged, as consumers, be heard in the governmental
decision-making process. The network on aging
offers opportunities for this through membership
on advisory councils related to State and Area
Agencies on Aging, Nutrition Project Agencies and
by particioation in public hearings on the annual
State and Area plans. Such и involvement can and
WN will have a significant impact on determining
what services for the aging are to be given the
highest priorities at the local level.
The punceple goal of this National Network on Aging is to bring
A
into being coordinated comprehensive service. systems for
disciness of the
the elderly at the community level. I join in the call for
hard and creative work at all levels
-- Federal,
its achieve
State and Area toward this objective. I am confident that
progress can be made.
Toward this end, the Administration on Aging and a number
and as ince have
of Federal Departments community, signed agreements which will
help to make available to older persons a fair share of the FEDERAL
FUNDS AVAILABLE
resources sequested in the 1977 budget in such areas as
housing, transportation, social services, law enforcement,
adult education and manpower -- resources which can play a
continue to
major role in enabling older persons to A live
in
their
own
homes
possible
There EFFORTS, HOWEVER, FIVE PERSENT
percent, of our older men and women require
the assistance provided by skilled nursing homes and other long
term care facilities. To assist these citizens, an om-
budsman process, related solely to the persons in these
facilities, is being put into operation by the National
will
Network on Aging. We believe that this program camotionly
help to resolve individual complaints but-bhatit can also
IMPORTANT
facilitate citizen involvement in the vigorous enforcement
of Federal, State and local laws designed to improve health
AN THE
and safety standards, as well as quality of care in these
facilities.
We must never lose sight of our obligations to help deal
with the needs of older persons. At the same time we must
not overlook the fact that older persons constitute one of
the nation greatest resources because of the contributions
they can make to our society. We are seriously short-changing
our nation when we deny older persons the opportunity for
continued productive involvement. This Is why my budget
for 1977 calls for increases in the ACTION programs designed
to provide older persons with the opportunity for constructive
service.
Today's older persons have made invaluable contributions
to the strengthening of our nation. They have provided the
nation with a vision and strength that has resulted in
unprecedented advancements in all of the areas of our life.
is DUE
Our national moral strength shou ld and will be judged in no
to
small part by our recognibion of E the significance of their
contributions. We must continue and strengthen both our
commitment to doing everything we can to respond to the
needs of the elderly and our determination to draw on their
strengths.
Each generation of Americans nives inc engaged
ition
TRADITION OF
of give
in implementing the policies which promote growth nts
progre
and progress. Each generation can measure its
and re
progress in part by its ability to recognize,
believe
the S
respect and renew the contributions of earlier
posing
do of
generations. I believe that the Social Security
nd
there
and Medicare improvements I am proposing, dexallerx
when combined with the kindxel action programs
OFFER A
under the Older Americans Act, will-holp our
MEASURE OF PROGRESS FOR THE
to move forward in this all important
FORD i LIBRARY GERALD
ELDERLY AND THUS MOVIDE
area of our life.
REAL NOPE for us ALL.
I ask the Congressy today to join with me in making improvements
in our /////// Federal programs serving the elderly.
Through our joint # determination to recognize and preserve
the contributions of the Nation's older citizens, you and I me
have the opportunity to demonstrate on behalf of all Americans a
concern that lifetimes of sacrifice
and hard work conclude in hope rather than despair. We
can 4544 help meet this concern by
sharing a commitment to improve Federal programs for the
elderly in a manner was tha t increases # security and
fosters self worth. We will be measured by our dedica tion
to these goals.
meet this
As President, I intend to measure up to meeting the
challenge of assuring that older Americans purposefully
share in our lives contribute our society I am
in a and ways. to
pleased today to submit to the Congress two proposals that
hich deal with the prob lems of
address income and health security. thereby offering significant
improvements in the quality of life of older Americans.
Inflation remains the single greatest threat to the
quality of life of older Americans. Our first priority con-
We have been able to
tinues to be the fight against inflation, that has already
reduce by resulted nearly in half nearly halving the double digit inflation experienced of in 1974.
But the retired, living on fixed incomes, have been especially
hard hit
we and the made progress, in reducing to date with is tion not enough. has not burefited We will them egual
continue our efforts to reduce federal spending, balance the
budget, and reduce taxes. The particular vulnerability of the
; hovener,
SPECIFR
aged to the burdens of inflation requires that improvements be
made in two major Federal programs, Social Security and Medicare.
2
We must begin by insuring that the Social Security system
is beyond challenge. Maintaining the integrity of the system
is a vital obligation each generation has to those who have
worked hard and contributed to it all their lives. I strongly
reaffirm my commitment to a stable and financially sound Social
Security system. My 1977 budget and legislative program
include several elements which I believe are essential to this
protect
its solvency and integrity.
First, to 1 assist help in] protection our retired and disabled
citizens against the hardships of inflation, my budget request
to the Congress includes a full cost of living increase in
Social Security benefits, effective with checks received in
July 1976, which will help maintain the purchasing power of 32
million Americans.
The Social Security trust fund is currently paying out
more in benefits than it receives in payroll tax receipts. To
insure the financial integrity of the Social Security trust funds,
I am proposing legislation to increase payroll taxes by three-
tenths of one percent each for employees and employers. This
increase will cost no worker more than $1 a week, and most will
pay less. These additional revenues are needed to stabilize
the trust funds so that current income will be certain to either
equal or exceed current outgo.
3.
I see this as an essential step for the years immediately
ahead. I am also taking steps to avoid serious future financing
problems which will result if we do not act now to correct a
flaw in the current system. The current formula which determines
benefits for workers who retire in the future overcompensates does not properly
reflect for wage and price fluctuations. This is an inadvertent
error, for which we all pay in inflated premiums. The change
I am proposing will not affect cost of living increases in
benefits after retirement, and will in no way alter the benefit
However,
better
levels of current recipients. On the other hand, it will pro-
tect future generations against unnecessary costs and excessive
tax increases. I believe that the prompt enactment of these
proposals is necessary to maintain a sound Social Security system
and to preserve its financial integrity.
But income security is not our only concern. The special
is another matter of deep
health care needs of our elder citizens concern, us all. Medicare
and other Federal health programs have been successful in im-
proving access to quality medical care for the aged. Prior to
the inception of Medicare and Medicaid in 1966, per capita health
expenditures for our aged were $445 per year. Just eight years
later, in FY 1974, per capital health expenditures for the
elderly had increased to $1218, an increase of 174 percent.
But despite the dramatic increase in medical services made
4
deficiencies in that service
possible by public programs, some problems, remain.
There are structural weaknesses in the Medicare program
which must be corrected. Three particular aspects of the
Medicare program concern me: 1) its failure to provide our
elderly with protection against catastrophic illness costs,
2) the serious effects that health care cost inflation is
having on the Medicare program, and 3) distorted cost-sharing
arrangements. My proposals address each of these problems.
In my State of the Union Message I proposed protection
against catastrophic health expenditures for Medicare bene-
ficiaries. This will be accomplished in two ways. First, I
propose extending Medicare benefits by allowing payment for un-
limited hospital and skilled nursing facility days of care
for beneficiaries. Second, I propose to limit the out-of-
pocket expenses of beneficiaries, for covered services, to
$500 per year for hospital and skilled nursing services and
$250 per year for physician and other non-institutional medical
services. The financial burden of prolonged illness can be borne
by very few older people. This proposal will eliminate this
fear from the lives of the elderly and their families.
Added steps are needed to slow down the inflation of
health costs and to enable the financing of this catastrophic
protection. Therefore, I am recommending that the Congress
5
limit increases in medicare payment rates in 1977 and 1978
to 7% day for hospitals and 4% for physician services.
also
Additional cost-sharing provisions are needed in order to
encourage economical use of services for short hospital stays
and routine physician care. Therefore, I am recommending
that patients pay 10% of hospital and nursing home charges
after the first day and that the existing deductible for
medical services be increased from $60 to $77 annually.
The savings from placing a limit on increases in medicare payment
rates and some of the revenue from increased cost sharing will
illness
be used to finance the catastrophic program.
I feel that, on balance, these proposals will provide our
elder citizens with protection against catastrophic illness
costs, promote efficient utilization of services, and moderate
the increases in health care costs.
The legislative proposals which I am making are but part
however, are only
of the over-all effort we are making on behalf of older
Americans. I must underscore my conviction that current
conditions call for continued and intensified action for
the action on a broad front.
made the
We have made progress in recent years. We have responded,
recommended chances proposed by
for example, to recommendations made at the 1971 White House
6
Conference on Aging, to enact A A Supplemental Security Income
was enacted.
were increased in relation to
program/ increase social security benefits more than the
cost of living, liberalize the social security retirement
was liberabized
were increased.
test, increase benefits for delayed retirement, eliminate
Some inequities in payments to women and protect 35 million
wire eliminated and protection was provided
workers who have earned rights in private pension plans.
to these improvementi
In addition we have continued to strengthen the Older
basic
Americans Act. I have supported the concept of the Older
last november
Americans Act since its inception in 1965, and, signed the
most recent amendments into law this past November. Funds
available for programs administered by the Administration on
Aging under this Act have increased from $44.7 million in
FY 1972 to $270 million during the last fiscal year.
A key component of the Older Americans Act is the
national network on aging which provides a solid foundation
on which action can be based. I am pleased that we have been
able to assist in setting up this network of 56 State and
489 Area Agencies on Aging, and 700 nutrition agencies.
These nutrition agencies provide 300,000 hot meals a day
five days a week. The system, with the assistance of thousands
of volunteers -- many of whom themselves are older persons --
7
has provided can and email must help help meet in the meeting
needs of older persons.
The network provides a structure through which other
benefits may flane
important concerns can be attached. The network on aging
such
offers opportunities for this through membership on advisory
councils and State and area agencies, participation in public
hearings on State and area plans, and involvement in the
priority setting process for services at the local level.
The goal of this National Network on Aging is to bring
into being coordinated comprehensive service systems for
the elderly) at the community level. I join in the call for
hard and creative work at all levels of the network --- Federal,
State and Area toward this objective. I am confident that further
progress can be made.
Toward this end, the Administration on Aging and a number
of Federal Departments recently signed agreements which will
help to make available to older persons a fair share of the
resources requested in the 1977 budget in such areas as
housing, transportation, social services, law enforcement,
adult education and manpower -- resources which can play a
major role in enabling older persons to live in a self-sufficient
manner, in their own homes, to the greatestextent possible.
Despite Five these (forts, however, Fixe perent of
percent our older men and women require
the assistance provided by skilled nursing homes and other long
8
term care facilities. To assist these citizens, an om-
budsman process, related solely to the persons in these types of
facilities, is being put into operation by the National
will
Network on Aging. We believe that this program cannot only
and will
help to resolve individual complaints, but that it can also
facilitate, important citizen involvement in the vigorous enforcement
of Federal, State and local laws designed to improve health
the
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
and safety standards; and as well as quality of care in these
facilities.
We must never lose sight of (our obligations to help/deal
is not the only reason for congern with the aging
with the needs of older persons At the same time We must
not overlook the fact that older persons constitute one of
the nation's greatest resources because for of the contributions
they can make to our society. We are seriously short-changing
our nation when we deny older persons the opportunity for
continued productive involvement. This why my budget
for this is mason
for 1977 calls for increases in the ACTION programs designed
to provide older persons with the opportunity for constructive
service.
Today's older persons have made invaluable contributions
to the strengthening of our nation. They have provided the
nation with expeninge a vision and streng th that has resulted in
misdom
9
unprecedented advancements in all of the areas of our life.
the
Our national moral strength should and will be judged in no
to
small part by our recognition of the significance of their
contributions. We must continue and strengthen both our
commitment to doing everything we can to respond to the
needs of the elderly and our determination to draw on their
strengths.
Each Our generation entire of Americans inceeding has been is engaged in a tradition a tradition
of of growth and progress. Each generation can measure its
struggle
forework
progress in part by examining its ability to recognize
and renew the contributions of earlier generations. I believe
the Social Security and Medicare improvements I am proposing
do offer a measure of real progress for the elderly, and thus
promide therefore therefore for us all.
FORD LIBRARY & 027470
Mr. Kienlen, Rm 465 CEOB
HEW/ESW/245-6111
In this 200th year of our independence, it is important that our Nation,
by its deeds, recognize the dignity and worth of our older citizens. They
have provided the strength which has made it possible for us to deal with
developments that threatened to undermine and destroy the form of government
bequeathed to us by our forefathers. They possess the insight, the vision,
the wisdom, and the courage on which we must draw if we are to deal
FORD LIBRARY
constructively with today's challenging and complex issues.
The Federal Council on Aging, created when the Older Americans Act was
amended in 1973, has prepared a new Bicentennial Charter for Older
Americans- an update of the Charter for Senior Citizens developed by the 1961
White House Conference on Aging. This Bicentennial Charter sets forth
principles which can be used to analyze and to evaluate our nation's response
to the problems that confront older persons and the response of older persons
to the problems now confronting our Nation.
The Bicentennial Charter, for example, speaks to the "right to an
opportunity for employment free. from discriminatory practices because of age"
and the "right to an opportunity to participate in the widest range of
meaningful civic, educational, recreational and cultural activities".
We must make it possible for older persons to continue to be involved
in the life of our Mation. One of the best opportunities for capitalizing on
the strengths of older Americans is in the job market, where older, and
even middle-aged, persons are too often the victims of myths and stereotypes
about their capabilities. Likewise older persons are the victims of these
same myths and stereotypes in the recruitment of volunteers who oftentime$
represent the difference between success and failure in the delivery of
services to those who are in need.
-2-
There is no finer way of demonstrating our respect for older persons
than to give them the opportunity of proving that time has only enhanced
their demonstrated abilities.
NOW, THEREFORE, I GERALD R. FORD, President of the United States of
America, do hereby designate the month of May, 1976, as Older Americans
Month.
1. I urge State and Area Agencies on Aging, organizations of older
persons and other private and public organizations that are
related to the field of aging to observe this month by
arranging for public forums where the Bicentennial Charter
for Older Americans will be discussed by older persons and
where older persons will develop recommendations for action,
addressed to both public and private bodies, designed to
implement the principles set forth in the Charter.
2. I urge all employer and employee organizations and other
organizations officially concerned with employment, both
public and private, to observe this month with appropriate
ceremonies, activities and programs designed to increase
employment opportunities for older workers.
3. I urge all organizations, both public and private, engaged
in the delivery of services to persons in need, to observe
this month by placing increased emphasis on the utilization
of volunteers and by intensifying their efforts to recruit,
train and place older volunteers.
-3-
4. I urge all Americans to observe this month by focusing on
both the achievements and needs of older persons and by
resolving to support those programs in both the public and
private sector which, if implemented, will help to make the 1
and beefrom wast
last days of life the best days for increasing numbers of our
older Americans
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
day
of
,
in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred seventy-six,
and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundredth.
lives of older Americans both productive and free from
want.
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
The past few years have reminded us of the much-
needed lesson that we must preserve our precious
natural resources. The collective wisdom, experience,
and productive abilities of our older citizens is one
of those greatest natural resources.
Increasingly, we have become more aware of the
contributions our older workers have made in the past.
We have increased our efforts to ensure that our older
citizens have the opportunity for maintenance of income
and health and for self-realization and continuing
usefulness.
While respect for our older citizens is important,
the opportunities we give them to take pride in them-
selves is more so. The most meaningful security is
the knowledge, and opportunity to prove, that time
has only enhanced their' demonstrated capabilities.
One of our best opportunities for capitalizing
on the resources possessed by Older Americans is in
the job market, where older, and even middle-aged,
workers are too often the victims of myths and stcreo-
types about their capabilities. Our vital economy
needs the knowhow, experience, judgment, and eagerness
which these solid citizens bring to the job.
2
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GERALD R. FORD, President
of the United States of America, do hereby designate
the month of May, 1976, as Older Americans Month.
I urge all employer and employee organizations,
and other organizations officially concerned with
employment to observe this month with appropriate
ceremonies, activities, and programs designed to
increase employment opportunities for older workers.
I ask all Americans to reflect upon the achieve-
ments and the needs of our older citizens and to do
all in their power to make these years something to
welcome, rather than dread. Most of all, I ask that
we begin this joint effort today.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand
this
day of
in the year of our
Lord nineteen hundred seventy-six, and of the Inde-
pendence of the United States of America the two
hundredth.
Sara Massengale
hm 220
TALKING POINTS:
NATIONAL RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION/
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED PERSONS
JANUARY 21, 1976
FORD i LIBRARY AFRALD
-1-
FIRST LET ME THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR THIS BOOK
AND WELCOME YOU TO THE WHITE HOUSE TODAY®
BETTY AND I
ARE VERY PLEASED TO HAVE YOU HERE WITH US
I UNDERSTAND
THAT THE GOALS OF YOUR ORGANIZATIONS FOLLOW THE BASIC THEME
OF THIS BOOK -- TO SERVE RATHER THAN BE SERVED, TO ENJOY
SELF-RENEWAL THROUGH ACTIVITY AND SERVICE, AND TO EMPLOY THE
CONCEPT OF "DYNAMIC MATURITY"
-2-
THIS IS REFLECTED IN THE VERY FINE VOLUNTEER WORK THAT IS
ACCOMPLISHED THROUGH THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF
RETIRED PERSONS AND THE NATIONAL RETIRED TEACHERS
ASSOCIATION
-3-
IN MY STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS MONDAY NIGHT
I SPOKE ABOUT SEVERAL THINGS WHICH ARE OF PARTICULAR
CONCERN TO RETIRED PERSONS
-4-
AS I SAID THEN, "MY FIRST OBJECTIVE IS TO HAVE
SOUND ECONOMIC GROWTH WITHOUT INFLATION"
I WAS VERY
PLEASED TO REPORT THAT THE DOUBLE-DIGIT INFLATION RATE OF
1974 HAD BEEN CUT ALMOST IN HALF IN 1975.
FORD & LIBRARY CERALD
-5-
AS YOU ARE WELL AWARE, OLDER AMERICANS WHO ARE LIVING ON
FIXED INCOMES ARE ESPECIALLY HARD HIT BY INFLATION
I PLEDGE TO CONTINUE THE FIGHT AGAINST INFLATION TO HELP
THESE ELDERLY CITIZENS, AS WELL AS EVERY OTHER AMERICAN
-6-
I ALSO SPOKE OF SOCIAL SECURITY -- WHICH IS SO
IMPORTANT NOT ONLY TO RETIRED PERSONS BUT ALSO TO PEOPLE
WHO ARE STILL WORKING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE SYSTEM
I AM RECOMMENDING IN MY BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 1977 THAT
THE FULL COST OF LIVING INCREASE IN SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS
BE PAID DURING THE COMING YEAR
-7-
ON MONDAY EVENING I INDICATED MY CONCERN ABOUT
THE INTEGRITY OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY TRUST FUND THAT ENABLES
PEOPLE TO COUNT ON THIS SOURCE OF RETIREMENT INCOME®
I AM CONCERNED BECAUSE THE SYSTEM NOW PAYS OUT MORE IN
BENEFITS THAN IT RECEIVES IN TAX PAYMENTS
-8-
TO PREVENT A RAPID DECLINE IN THE TRUST FUND
OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS, I WAS FACED WITH A VERY DIFFICULT
CHOICE -- EITHER TO LIMIT THE EXPECTED INCREASES IN RETIREMENT
AND DISABILITY BENEFITS OR TO INCREASE REVENUES
FORD & LIBRARY
-9-
I MADE A DECISION AND I KNOW IT TO BE THE RIGHT ONE
I AM PROPOSING A PAYROLL TAX INCREASE OF THREE-TENTHS OF A
PERCENT EACH FOR EMPLOYEES AND EMPLOYERS OF COVERED WAGES
THIS TAX INCREASE WILL HELP STABILIZE THE TRUST FUNDS SO THAT
CURRENT AND FUTURE RECIPIENTS WILL BE ASSURED THAT THEY WILL
RECEIVE THE BENEFITS THEY ARE ENTITLED TO
-10-
I ALSO SPOKE MONDAY NIGHT OF THE BURDEN OF
CATASTROPHIC ILLNESS
I WANT TO ELIMINATE THE FEAR OF
THIS BURDEN
I THEREFORE PROPOSED CATASTROPHIC HEALTH
INSURANCE FOR THE MORE THAN 24 MILLION AGED AND DISABLED
AMERICANS PROTECTED BY MEDICARE
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
-11-
AS I SAID THEN, NODOBY WHO IS COVERED BY MEDICARE WILL HAVE
TO PAY MORE THAN 500 DOLLARS A YEAR FOR COVERED HOSPITAL OR
NURSING HOME CARE NOR MORE THAT 250 DOLLARS FOR ONE YEAR'S
DOCTORS' BILLS
-12-
TO HELP FINANCE THIS ADDED PROTECTION, I AM ALSO
PROPOSING CHANGES IN THE COST SHARING REQUIREMENTS.
AS UNDER THE CURRENT SYSTEM, A BENEFICIARY WHO IS IN THE
HOSPITAL WILL PAY FOR THE FIRST DAY OF SERVICES
IN
ADDITION HE OR SHE WILL PAY 10 PERCENT OF ADDITIONAL
CHARGES UP TO AN ANNUAL MAXIMUM OF 500 DOLLARS
FORD is LIBRARY GLRALD
-13-
FOR COVERED PHYSICIANS' SERVICES MY PROPOSAL
WOULD INCREASE THE ANNUAL DEDUCTIBLE FOR 60 DOLLARS TO
77 DOLLARS
THE BENEFICIARY WILL CONTINUE TO PAY THE
EXISTING CO-PAYMENT OF 20 PERCENT
BUT I AM PROPOSING
THAT NO ONE COVERED BY MEDICARE WILL HAVE TO PAY MORE THAN
250 DOLLARS FOR ONE YEARS'S DOCTORS' BILLS
-14-
I FEEL THAT THESE PROPOSALS ARE OF PARTICULAR
IMPORTANCE IN ACHIEVING MY GOAL OF HELPING ALL AMERICANS
TO LIVE IN DIGNITY, SECURITY AND GOOD HEALTH
I HOPE
THAT YOU JOIN ME IN SECURING CONGRESSIONAL PASSAGE OF MY
PROPOSALS
-15-
I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I APPRECIATE AND VALUE
YOUR EFFECTIVE COMMITMENT TO A CAUSE THAT IS TOO OFTEN
NEGLECTED -- THE DIGNITY AND WELL-BEING OF AMERICA'S
OLDER GENERATION
-16-
I UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE GOING TO GO ON A TOUR
OF THE WHITE HOUSE NOW
BETTY AND I HOPE THAT YOU
ENJOY YOUR VISIT HERE AND PLEASE COME BACK AGAIN
END OF TEXT
AARP /NRTA 1-21-76
First let me thank you very much for this book and
welcome you to the White House today. Betty and I are very
here
pleased to have you with us. I understand that the goals
of your organizations follow the basic theme of this book --
to serve rather than be served, to enjoy self-renewal
through activity and service, and to employ the concept of
"dynamic maturity". This is reflected in the very fine
volunteer work that is accomplished through the American
Association of Retired Persons and the National Retired
Teachers Association.
In my State of the Union address Monday night I spoke
about several things which are of particular concern to
FORD
retired persons.
As I said then, "My first objective is to have sound
economic growth without inflation." I was very pleased to
1974
report that the double-digit inflation rate of 1975 had been
1975.
cut almost in half in 1976. As you are well aware, older
Americans who are living on fixed. incomes are especially
hard hit by inflation. I pledge to continue the fight
against inflation to help these elderly citizens, as well
as every other American.
I also spoke of Social Security -- which is so important
not only to retired persons but also to people who are still
working and contributing to the system. I am recommending
in my budget for fiscal year 1977 that the full cost of
- 2 -
living increase in Social Security benefits be paid during
the coming year.
On Monday evening I indicated my concern about the
integrity of the Social Security Trust Fund that enables
people to count on this source of retirement income.
I'am concerned because
on The system now pays out more in benefits than it re-
ceives in tax payments. This is largely due to increased
benefits in the past few years and payroll tax receipts
which have lagged because of unemployment and slow wage growth.
To prevent a rapid decline in the trust fund over the
next few years, I was faced with a very difficult choice ---
the expected
either to limit increases in retirement and disability
benefits or to increase revenues.
I made the decision I knew was right. As I announced,
I am proposing, effective January 1, 1977 a payroll tax
increase of three-tenths of a percent each for employees
and employers of covered wages. This tax increase will
help stabilize the trust funds so that current and future
recipients will be assured that they will receive the
benefits they have earned.
I also spoke Monday night of the burden of catastrophic
illness. I want to eliminate the fear of this burden. I
therefore proposed catastrophic health insurance for the
more than 24 million aged and disabled Americans protected
by Medicare. As I said then, nobody who is covered by
- 3 -
Medicare will have to pay more than $500 a year for covered
hospital or nursing home care nor more than $250 for one
year's doctors' bills.
To help finance this added protection, I am also pro-
posing changes in the cost sharing requirements. As under
the current system, a beneficiary who is in the hospital will
pay for the first day of service. In addition he or she
will pay 10% of additional charges up to an annual maximum
of $500.
For covered physicians' services my proposal would
increase the annual deductible from $60 to $77. The bene-
ficiary will continue to pay the existing co-payment of
covered by
20%. But I am proposing that no one under Medicare will
have to pay more than $250 for one year's doctors' bills.
I feel that these proposals are of particular importance
in achieving my goal of helping all Americans to live in
dignity, security and good health. I hope that you join me
in securing Congressional passage of my proposals.
I want you to know that I appreciate and value your
effective commitment to a cause that is too often neglected --
the dignity and well-being of America's older generation.
I understand that you are going to go on a tour of the
White House now. Betty and I hope that you enjoy your visit
here very much and please come back again.
DRAFT IHERING POINTS
SCM
AARP/NRTA 1-21-76
First let me thank you very much for this book and
welcome you to the White House today. Betty and I are very
pleased to have you here with us. I understand that the goals
of your organizations follow the basic theme of this book --
to serve rather than be served, to enjoy self-renewal
through activity and service, and to employ the concept of
"dynamic maturity". This is reflected in the very fine
volunteer work that is accomplished through the American
Association of Retired Persons and the National Retired
Teachers Association.
In my State of the Union address Monday night I spoke
about several things which are of particular concern to
retired persons.
GERALD LIGRARY ? FORD
As I said then, "My first objective is to have sound
economic growth without inflation." I was very pleased to
1974
report that the double-digit inflation rate of 1975 had been
1975.
cut almost in half in 1976. As you are well aware, older
Americans who are living on fixed incomes are especially
hard hit by inflation. I pledge to continue the fight
against inflation to help these elderly citizens, as well
as every other American.
I also spoke of Social Security -- which is so important
not only to retired persons but also to people who are still
working and contributing to the system. I am recommending
in my budget for fiscal year 1977 that the full cost of
- 2 -
living increase in Social Security benefits be paid during
the coming year.
On Monday evening I indicated my concern about the
integrity of the Social Security Trust Fund that enables
people to count on this source of retirement income.
I'am concerned because
A The system now pays out more in benefits than it re-
ceives in tax payments. This is largely due to increased
benefits in the past few years and payroll tax receipts
which have lagged because of unemployment and slow wage growth.
To prevent a rapid decline in the trust fund over the
next few years, I was faced with a very difficult choice --
the expected
either to limit increases in retirement and disability
benefits or to increase revenues.
I made the decision I knew was right. As I announced,
I am proposing, effective January 1, 1977 a payroll tax
increase of three-tenths of a percent each for employees
and employers of covered wages. This tax increase will
help stabilize the trust funds so that current and future
recipients will be assured that they will receive the
benefits they have earned.
I also spoke Monday night of the burden of catastrophic
illness. I want to eliminate the fear of this burden. I
therefore proposed catastrophic health insurance for the
more than 24 million aged and disabled Americans protected
by Medicare. As I said then, nobody who is covered by
- 3 -
Medicare will have to pay more than $500 a year for covered
hospital or nursing home care nor more than $250 for one
year's doctors' bills.
To help finance this added protection, I am also pro-
posing changes in the cost sharing requirements. As under
the current system, a beneficiary who is in the hospital will
pay for the first day of service. In addition he or she
will pay 10% of additional charges up to an annual maximum
of $500.
For covered physicians' services my proposal would
increase the annual deductible from $60 to $77. The bene-
ficiary will continue to pay the existing co-payment of
covered by
20%. But I am proposing that no one under Medicare will
have to pay more than $250 for one year's doctors' bills.
I feel that these proposals are of particular importance
in achieving my goal of helping all Americans to live in
dignity, security and good health. I hope that you join me
in securing Congressional passage of my proposals.
I want you to know that I appreciate and value your
effective commitment to a cause that is too often neglected --
the dignity and well-being of America's older generation.
I understand that you are going to go on a tour of the
White House now. Betty and I hope that you enjoy your visit
here very much and please come back again.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 21, 1976
OFFICE OF THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
REMARKS OF THE PRESIDENT
AND THE VICE PRESIDENT
TO THE
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF THE
NATIONAL RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION
AND THE
AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED PERSONS
THE STATE DINING ROOM
2:50 P.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Mr. Vice President, Miss Mullen,
Mr. Woodruff, members of the two fine associations of
retired people:
It is a great privilege and pleasure for me to
have an opportunity to greet all of you and to say a few
words concerning some of the problems that I know face
retired people and to relate them, to some extent, to the
proposals that I made Monday night before the Congress
and the American people.
First, I would like to thank Miss Mullen and Mr.
Woodruff for this book, which I understand has as a theme
the theme that two organizations have for the activities
of your many, many members. I will look forward to reading
it, "Power of Years."
I know from practical experience that all of
you and your associates have the power of years, and I
congratulate you on it and hope that you will continue to
have it.
Let me make one or two comments concerning problems
that face you, and issues, which I tried to address Monday
GERAL FORD LIBRARY
night in the State of the Union comments to Congress and
the American people.
Number one, one of the principal issues we face
in this country is how to do something affirmatively in the
area of inflation. Fifteen or sixteen months ago we were
going through a very traumatic period, with the rate of
inflation up over 12 percent.
MORE
Page 2
We have made substantial strides in cutting
back on the rate of inflation. The current rate is roughly
6 percent. We hope to reduce that gradually, but construc-
tively, in the months ahead. If we carry out responsible
fiscal policy, if we do the other things that are needed
and necessary, we can get the rate of inflation down to an
area which is liveable for all people and a rate that must
be obtained as far as retired people are concerned.
Number two, as all of you know, I indicated that
I was not recommending any cap or any ceiling on Social
Security benefits. The anticipated cost of living increase
for the Social Security recipients is somewhere between 6
and 8 percent.
It is my feeling that we ought to permit -- and
I have recommended that -- that to go into effect as planned
under the existing law. But, I had to point out, and I
think properly so, that at the pay-out rate, and based on the
money that is received, the Social Security Trust Fund is
going to get in trouble in the next four or five years.
There is no question about it.
All of the experts can show you charts and
graphs that indicate that unless we increase receipts on
the one hand, we will be forced either to reduce benefits
or else draw on the funds of the Treasury, the general funds.
It seemed to me that we had to face up to the
issue of the integrity of the Trust Fund, and the best of
the three alternatives, in my opinion, is to add a very,
very small tax, three-tenths of 1 percent, on both employer
and employee.
If you figure it out, the most a person would pay
would be less than $1.00 a week; the most. It adds up to $47.00
a week (year) for the person with the highest income that
is taxed $15,400.
We must maintain the integrity of that Trust
Fund. Otherwise, those who are retired or those who are
working and intend to retire, will not have the security
that is needed or necessary.
The second point I addressed, I think of some
interest to you, is how we are going to handle the problem
of catastrophic illnesses. Approximately 24 to 25 million
people today are receiving Medicare benefits. The
statisticians tell me that roughly three million of that
24 to 25 million are affected by catastrophic illnesses
today, and everybody knows that very few people in our
society today can carry the burden of catastrophic illness.
MORE
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
Page 3
In order to insure that the retired people are
covered, I am recommending some changes in Medicare.
Under existing Medicare arrangements, a person
gets the first day free, and up to 60 days there is a
small payment. But, after 60 days, there is an obligation
both as to hospital or nursing home care and doctor bills.
Under the proposal that I have recommended, the
first day of care will be free and there will be a small
charge of 20 (10) percent of the cost of nursing home and
hospital care up to 60 days, but after a $500 payment is
made per year, that is it. There is no other payment after
$500.
In the case of doctors' bills, the limit per year
is $250. We would increase the deductible from $60 to $77
and a limit of $250 per year. This will give that catas-
trophic illness coverage to all people who are currently
under Medicare, some 25,000 (25 million).
I think these are steps in the right direction.
They take care of the problems of inflation. They give
the Trust Fund the security and the integrity that is
require and, most of all, it handles the problem of
catastrophic illness, which I know from experiences in
families that are close to me is a burden that few, if
any, in our society can take care of.
I hope and trust that we can count on the support
of all of you and your respective organizations. It will
help to make, in my opinion, a better opportunity for
enjoyment of life for our senior citizens.
Thank you very much.
Now, I would like to introduce my good friend
and our outstanding Vice President, Nelson Rockefeller.
VICE PRESIDENT ROCKEFELLER: As a retired person,
I feel a tremendous sense of community here but who was,
based on 'power' of experience, drafted back very graciously
by the President to serve with him, so that I am delighted
with the privilege and opportunity of being in his Adminis-
tration and of having this opportunity to say just a word
with this wonderful group gathered here today.
Three things about the President that I particularly
admire and that made it a tremendous honor and a pleasure
for me to be associated with him in this capacity:
MORE
Page 4
One was a deep sense of human concern and this,
to me, in this difficult period in which we live, is a
fundamental requirement for leadership.
Secondly is a tremendously inquisitive mind in
trying to understand the issues and the problems and to
find solutions, which is equally important, as you go down
the road.
Then, one of the problems which faces a politician
always, of course, is you may find a solution, but is that
solution palatable from a political point of view. What I
admire about the President is, his interest is finding what
is the best solution for the American people for the long
pull. When he finds that, that is what he stands for.
No concern about the short-term political considerations.
That is the kind of political leadership I think
this country needs and that we have.
Thank you.
THE PRESIDENT: It is my understanding you are
going to have a tour of the White House following this get-
together. It is a wonderful place. It is the nicest public
housing I know. (Laughter)
I am sure you will enjoy the wonderful opportunity
to see the historic places of interest in the White House,
and I just wish you a very good year in 1976.
Thank you very much.
END
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