Senior Advocacy

Prior to completing this discussion, be sure to read chapter 15 in your text, read the required “Health reform, politics, and conflict: Is this any way to serve America\’s elders” (2011), “The economic meltdown and old age politics: opportunity: reframe the politics of aging” (2009) articles, and review the IlluminAge, CARIE, and AARP websites and any relevant Instructor Guidance.

Evaluate the types of advocacy programs dedicated to seniors described within the resource materials. Describe three forms of advocacy discussed on the websites including their importance to the care and support of seniors. Analyze and comment upon social policy issues that impact these advocacy programs. What is the role of the each of the three advocacy programs, mentioned on the websites, in ensuring the needs and rights of seniors are met? Explain the role that politics and activism have in influencing the decision making of politicians and governments agencies regarding the needs of senior populations. Discuss other forms of advocacy (beyond those suggested on the websites) that promote Medicare support, access to health care, and improving nutrition for seniors.