At Eastern Area Agency on Aging, we are proud to advocate for the passage of LD 814: The Older Mainers Act. This critical piece of legislation will provide essential support to older Mainers across the state, helping them live healthier, more independent lives. By supporting this act, you are ensuring that older adults have access to vital services and programs that are proven to reduce hospitalizations, keep people in their homes, and offer peace of mind for families and caregivers.

Why LD 814 is Essential for Older Mainers

• Support for Basic Needs: LD 814 ensures that older Mainers receive direct support for food, fuel, housing, and home repairs—critical for maintaining independence and stability in their homes.

• Aging in Place: Over 87% of Mainers over 45 want to stay in their homes as they age. This act helps make that a reality by providing the necessary support to age in place with dignity.

• Preventing Hospitalizations: With additional support for proven programs like Meals on Wheels, this act helps keep people out of hospitals and nursing homes by providing preventive services and supports.

• Economic Benefits: LD 814 will save Maine money by reducing the need for Medicaid-funded nursing home care. It also helps older Mainers save through Medicare services and other financial support programs.

The Challenges Older Mainers Face

Many older Mainers are struggling to meet basic needs. Across the state, our aging population is relying more heavily on services that help them maintain their independence. Unfortunately, funding limitations for Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are preventing us from reaching those in need.

• Waiting Lists: Over 750 Mainers are currently on waiting lists for Meals on Wheels—essential for those who cannot cook for themselves and need nutritious meals to maintain their health and independence.

• Staffing Shortages: Limited staffing for case management, Medicare counseling, and other services reduces the number of older Mainers who can access critical resources to improve their lives.

How LD 814 Will Help

LD 814 addresses these challenges by:

• Statewide Case Management Services: This will ensure older Mainers can navigate the complex system of services and benefits that are available to them.

• Meals on Wheels: The act eliminates the waiting list for Meals on Wheels, providing nutritious meals to those in need across the state.

• Medicare Support: The act provides additional programs to help older Mainers save money through Medicare counseling and support.

• Resources for Family Caregivers: It also provides vital resources and respite services to support the family caregivers who are often the primary source of care for their loved ones.

• Information and Referrals: Expanding access to vital information and referrals will empower older adults to make informed decisions and access the services they need.

Economic Impact of LD 814

The economic benefits of LD 814 extend beyond just supporting older adults. By preventing unnecessary nursing home admissions, the state saves millions:

• Cost Savings: Keeping just 103 older Mainers out of nursing homes annually would offset the $9.75 million increase in funding required for this act.

• Meals on Wheels: This program costs less than $10 per day per person compared to $258.55 per day for nursing home care.

• Medicare Savings: LD 814 will save Mainers more than $3.6 million annually through Medicare counseling, information, and education.