By US Rep. Leonard Boswell

May is National Older Americans Month. This month we pay tribute to the senior citizens who have helped shape our communities. This year’s theme, “Living Today For a Better Tomorrow,” invites us to consider the ways older Americans can ensure their own healthy futures, as well as what government can do to serve our population’s changing needs.

According to the Administration on Aging, one-fifth of the nation’s population will be age 65 or older by 2030. The Iowa Department of Elder Affairs estimates that, by 2030, 22.4 percent of Iowa’s population will be 65 or older. Now more than ever, older Americans are staying active and pursuing leadership roles at work and in their communities. Older Americans are also central to family life. In Iowa, an estimated 14, 436 children are being cared for by a grandparent. I believe it is especially important to honor the military service of older Americans. An estimated 107, 280 Iowans age 65 or older are veterans, and their devoted service and the memories they carry make these senior citizens particularly valuable to their communities.

What can older Americans – and all of us – do to ensure that senior citizens “Live Today For a Better Tomorrow?” Older Americans can prevent and manage chronic health problems by exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding tobacco. It’s also important for older Americans to pay attention to their mental health. Studies show that nearly 20 percent of Americans 55 and older experience depression or anxiety. Community activities like volunteering have been shown to improve mental health and increase overall satisfaction with life. All these lifestyle choices are important, but they need to be accompanied by comprehensive reform that guarantees quality, affordable health care for older Americans. While the United States ranks only 24th among the 30 most affluent countries in life expectancy, our nation spends more on health care than any other. The ongoing debate over healthcare reform must place the needs of older Americans high on the agenda. Discussions about reducing costs and improving quality should incorporate ideas for strengthening Medicare, providing low-income assistance, supporting family caregivers, and expanding home- and community-health services. In addition, while Social Security has proven to be one of our government’s most effective programs, we must take steps to strengthen it, protect workers’ pensions, and expand employment opportunities for older Americans. As we continue working toward economic recovery, Congress and the Obama Administration must bear in mind the concerns of aging Americans. I welcome your thoughts on this or any other issue. As always, feel free to contact me in Des Moines at 515-282-1909, or toll-free at 1-888-432-1984. You can also contact me in Washington, D.C. at 202-225-3806.