Press Release
JUNE 21, 2006
CONGRESSWOMAN SUSAN
DAVIS BILL ADDED
TO SENIORS LEGISLATION PASSED BY HOUSE
Davis's provision provides assistance to seniors with limited English skills
Washington - Many older Americans have limited English skills that can isolate them from available programs and assistance because of those language barriers. However, multilingual young people can act as a valuable communication resource to help increase awareness for seniors on a range of issues. Congresswoman Susan Davis introduced legislation to bring young and old together to help break down the language barriers.
Davis's bill (HR 5648) would amend the Older Americans Act of 1965 to encourage and facilitate regular interaction between seniors with limited English proficiency and students with multilingual skills across the United States.
Working with her congressional colleagues, Davis was able to have the provisions of her bill included in the Senior Independence Act (HR 5293), which passed the House of Representatives on a voice vote.
"It is critical that these seniors are aware of the programs that are designed to help them," said Rep. Davis. "It is also important to give older Americans the opportunity to share their wisdom and experiences with younger generations. We know about the joy our seniors experience from visiting with younger folks. We must ensure all segments of our older population have this opportunity and multigenerational programs are an excellent way for seniors and young people to benefit from each other. "
Davis first became aware of this issue while visiting a site for a supportive senior housing project of San Diego's Senior Community Centers. The project includes affordable housing for low-income seniors, nutrition services, social services, and mental healthcare. Located in a culturally diverse neighborhood, the people that this program will benefit come from a wide variety of backgrounds and speak many languages.
Davis said her goal is to have young people, who speak English and a native language, go out into the community to help increase awareness about the programs, and help seniors navigate the programs - the eligibility requirements, the enrollment process, and other vital information.
The Senior Independence Act now moves to the Senate for consideration.