Hello LeadingAge Missouri Members!  This column routinely shares our current focus on behalf of members.  Without question, our attention today is on the Budget Reconciliation process and “One Big Beautiful Bill” (HR 1).  

In its present form, this legislation alters Medicaid financing in ways that will substantially challenge Missouri and MO HealthNet’s ability to reimburse Medicaid service providers at existing levels.  So critical is the Congressional debate, we added a  section to Missouri Messenger to keep you up-to-date and seek your advocacy support. 

HR 1 passed the House of Representatives May 22.  A Senate reconciliation bill was introduced this week.  LA MO members met with Senator Hawley’s staff June 9 to share Missouri provider perspectives on the proposed Medicaid cuts and cost-shifting.  Many of our concerns are captured in this Action Alert.  Please click on “Urge Congress to Oppose Reconciliation Bill”, add your personal perspectives, and send it to our U.S. Senators.  This raises your voice on behalf of Missouri older adults and those who care for them!  And it advances our mission to “Be the trusted voice for aging in Missouri”!

While disturbing Medicaid proposals demand our immediate attention and action, we can’t ignore other disturbing facts.  At least one in ten older adults annually experience abuse, and most cases go unreported!  Elder abuse escalated 35% over the last decade with disheartening cases of financial exploitation, caregiver neglect, and physical/emotional abuse being the most common.  In my decade of representing LA MO members, elder abuse has seldom been an issue.  But LA MO members, residents, and home care clients are not immune.  Right now – after the St. Louis tornado – we must stay informed and alert.  Disaster scams are common.  These may include fake offers of local/federal assistance, FEMA inspector impersonation, fraudulent building/repair contractors, or identity theft to undertake fraudulent applications for government assistance.  Fortunately, there are resources to combat scammers and elder abuse.  

Here is the June tool kit from the Show Me Elder Justice Campaign launched by The Coalition for Justice for Elders and Disabled Adults (CJEDA).  CJEDA brings together law enforcement, healthcare, education, and government partners for positive change in Missouri.  The Show Me Elder Justice Campaign offers turnkey tools that can help LA MO members, residents, and clients build awareness and promote elder justice.   You may sign up for monthly toolkits and information through info.cjeda@gmail.com.  The resources will aid you and are packaged to allow you to share them with others.  Elder abuse can be stopped when people recognize the signs, check in on loved ones or neighbors, and report suspicions to the Missouri Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline (800-392-0210 or health.mo.gov/abuse).

Last Sunday, June 15 was World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, so the topic is especially timely.  But every day LA MO members are called to shine a light on crises facing older and disabled adults.  Our public policy advocacy and our education efforts evidence our commitment to build a society that respects, protects, and values older adults.  We appreciate your supportive efforts.

Yours in service,