Our policy and advocacy work actively identifies and addresses the most critical needs of Harris County's older adult population. Providing resources and information for policymakers and community advocates regarding elder care issues is a priority for Care for Elders. Our current areas of focus are in-home safety and ensuring an adequately screened and trained direct care workforce. Retention of a qualified direct care workforce is essential to enabling seniors to remain living independently at home. Without direct care workers, the numbers of older adults admitted to nursing homes and hospitals will increase, as well as costs to taxpayers and the healthcare system.

Available Resources for Policymakers:

• Data and Reports
• Replicable Model Programs
• Emerging Trends in the Aging Population
• Demographic Maps of Aging Population
• Activities in Harris County
• Contact Care For Elders 

Available Resources for Advocates:

• Learn the Texas Legislative Process
• See Legislation Care For Elders is Following
• Care For Elders' Legislative Alerts-sign up for alerts; read current and past alerts
• Find Your Elected Officials
• Activities in Harris County
• Contact Care For Elders

By providing important data about the demographics, health conditions, and well-being of Harris County's older adults we can inform public policy and influence community practice to increase access to services, improve the quality of care and enhance the quality of life for elders and family caregivers in Harris County.

For information on the Care for Elders' Government Relations Workgroup, contact jbavineau@careforelders.org.