Gov. Joe Manchin, Robin Talbert: Program Helps Seniors Sort Finances

The Charleston Gazette

September 26, 2008

West Virginia is estimated to have the third-highest median age in the nation, and the Census indicates that by 2025 individuals 60 and older will represent more than 30 percent of the state's population. And with more than a third of all senior households living on less than $15,000 a year, many older adults in West Virginia are vulnerable - they are often victims of financial fraud, adult neglect, poor nutrition and depression.

But there are a host of caring professionals who fight every day for the rights of these older adults, working to ensure that they can age with dignity and purpose.

Last week a number of dedicated health education specialists, nurses, counselors, psychologists, social workers and consumer-protection advocates came together at the Governor's Summit on Aging to receive state-of-the-art training and continuing-education opportunities so that they may better serve and work on behalf of the Mountain State's older citizens. This annual four-day program offers best practices and practical advice on topics ranging from caregiving to mental-health services to consumer-fraud protection.

AARP has frequently joined with West Virginia leaders to help protect the 50-and-older consumer against disreputable or illegal business practices and help resolve consumer disputes. At this year's summit, the AARP Foundation Money Management Program launched in Central and Southern West Virginia. The Money Management Program will reduce the chances of financial exploitation - including fraud and abuse - for those older adults who have difficulties keeping track of their financial matters. The funding for this critical program results from a supplemental appropriation bill, which was passed by the Legislature last year and helps to advance the West Virginia Older Americans Act State Plan on Aging.

The Money Management Program uses trained volunteers to help clients manage their money and pay their bills on time. These watchful eyes assist vulnerable West Virginians in better managing their finances, thereby reducing the chances of them falling prey to scams, fraud and abuse. Committed volunteers work with individuals in their homes - with a quarter of West Virginia's seniors suffering from a self-care or mobility limitation, this service can prove invaluable.

West Virginians look after one another. The Governor's Summit on Aging is designed to give caring professionals practical information and training so that they can advocate even more effectively for older adults. The network of aging services and programs is strong in West Virginia and the Summit is an opportunity to highlight and address the issues associated with an aging population.

We all want to age with independence to the greatest extent possible, but sometimes we need a helping hand. Today in West Virginia the public, private and nonprofit sectors are working diligently to make sure that older adults stay safe, healthy and financially secure for as long as possible.

Joe Manchin is the governor of West Virginia. Robert Talbert is president of the AARP Foundation.

More Information on US Elder Rights Issues

Copyright © Global Action on Aging
Terms of Use  |  Privacy Policy  |  Contact Us