With the senior citizen population about to increase as the baby boomer generation reaches senior status, the National Council on Aging is encouraging seniors to pay attention to six policy issues that might affect them in 2012.
According to the NCOA, Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security will all be top priorities for seniors this year, but those issues probably won't have any significant movement in terms of legislative changes. However, Americans should understand the Older Americans Act, which offers an opportunity to make aging services better, so they meet the needs of the growing aging population.
The NCOA also recommends paying attention to extensions of Medicare low-income protections, "doc fix" and unemployment insurance. Doc fix refers to a measure that would prevent cuts in Medicare payments to doctors.
Senior program funding cuts is another issue seniors might want to turn their attention to in 2012. Major reductions in low-income senior programs that assist with bills and housing have had a major impact on senior citizens.
Long-term care, access to preventive benefits and hunger and food security also will have a significant impact on seniors this year, with potential changes coming to programs like the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Program and Meals on Wheels.
With fewer than 25 percent of Americans confident in reaching retirement goals, according to a recent survey, citizens might look to annuities and life insurance to prepare for future expenses.