Core Principles
Senior citizens are the backbone of our communities and the living repositories of history, culture, and resilience. African American seniors face unique challenges including economic insecurity, healthcare disparities, and social isolation. Policy must protect their dignity, health, and financial stability while empowering them to remain active participants in society.
Key Challenges Facing African American Seniors
- Limited access to affordable healthcare, including preventive and long-term care.
- Financial insecurity due to inadequate pensions, retirement savings, or historical wage inequities.
- Social isolation and limited community engagement opportunities.
- Underrepresentation in senior-centered policymaking.
- Disproportionate exposure to chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Lack of access to age-friendly transportation and housing.
Policy Positions
1. Healthcare Access & Quality
- Expand Medicare coverage and reduce out-of-pocket costs.
- Increase availability of home-based and community health services.
- Promote culturally competent healthcare providers for African American seniors.
2. Economic Security
- Strengthen Social Security protections and prevent benefit reductions.
- Provide financial literacy and retirement planning programs.
- Support programs that reduce energy, housing, and medical costs for low-income seniors.
3. Community Engagement & Social Inclusion
- Fund senior centers offering education, recreation, and cultural activities.
- Promote intergenerational mentorship programs linking seniors and youth.
- Expand volunteer and leadership opportunities for seniors in local communities.
4. Housing & Transportation
- Support affordable, accessible, and safe housing options for seniors.
- Provide senior-friendly public transportation and mobility programs.
- Fund home modification initiatives to enable aging in place.
5. Legal & Protective Services
- Strengthen protections against elder abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect.
- Ensure seniors have access to legal aid and advocacy services.
- Promote community-based monitoring and support networks for vulnerable seniors.