Local expert offers nonpartisan insights on key election issues impacting seniors

July 19, 2012 - PRLog -- MACON, Ga. -- (July 19, 2012) – As the presidential election draws near, candidates have begun to focus in on a key demographic- seniors.  Jean Govoni, local senior care expert and executive director of Blair House Senior Living (www.blairhouseseniorliving.com), points out that now is the ideal time for senior living communities to help residents verify voter registration and provide unbiased information on key ballot issues.  

“Job growth, Social Security, Medicare, the role of government and rising healthcare costs are at the forefront of issues on seniors’ minds,” says Govoni.   “According to research by the American Association of Retired People (AARP), older adults (50+) are more likely than younger adults to express an intention to vote. Therefore, we’re sure to see both candidates focusing in on issues that impact seniors over the months leading up to the election.”

Govoni mentions that some of the senior specific issues this election include:

• The Older Americans Act:  
Older Americans Act (OAA) is up for reauthorization in the fall and will continue to be discussed during the election. The Act provides support for senior centers, nutrition programs, disease prevention and caregiver programs.

• Long-term care:  
Private long-term care insurance funds care such as hospice or assisted living, beyond a predetermined period. The affordability of long-term care insurance has become a key factor this election for baby boomers and seniors who understand the importance of purchasing long-term care insurance but have seen a dramatic rise in the cost of premiums.

• Social Security and Medicare:  
Social Security and Medicare are especially important to seniors, who are living longer and have become increasingly dependent on the benefits of Social Security to assist in funding their retirement. Polls show that seniors traditionally oppose Social Security benefit cuts.

“As the election draws near, these issues have the potential to shape the senior vote,” says Govoni. “I advise all seniors to ask questions, gather information on the issues that are important to them and make informed decisions prior to casting their vote.”

About Blair House Senior Living
Blair House Senior Living, (www.blairhouseseniorliving.com), named for the historic registry home on the property, is a 120-bed senior living and Alzheimer’s care residential community in historic downtown Macon, Ga. Blair House features studio apartments available in three different floor plans and offers 24-hour staffing and amenities such as an activities room and salon.

About Senior Management Advisors, Inc.
Senior Management Advisors (SMA) (www.seniormanagementadvisors.com) is a leading operator of full service independent living, assisted living and Alzheimer’s care residential communities in Georgia and Florida. SMA specializes in rejuvenating and stabilizing senior living communities for owners, financial institutions, private investors and government agencies. SMA’s services include consultation, management, development and renovation of residential communities.