Funds found to boost kupuna, aging programs

One of every five Hawaii residents has reached the age of 60, and the Legislature has recognized the influx by creating an Aging and Disability Resource Center to help the elderly find services ranging from health programs to transportation and housing.

In a separate bill enacted in this year’s session, lawmakers provided $4.2 million for the Kupuna Care program, which relies on both state money and contributions to meet the needs of the aging, along with $426,772 for a healthy aging partnership program and $285,000 for senior centers.

"The passing of these bills fills us with hope and gratitude," Wes Lum, director of the state Executive Office on Aging, wrote to the Star-Advertiser. "It makes our community a better and safer place for not only our vulnerable citizens but for all of us."

Kupuna Care served 4,836 persons statewide at a monthly cost of $103 per person last year, according to AARP. The additional $4.2 million is projected to serve an additional 3,400 persons, depending on the level of impairment.

AARP emphasizes that there is plenty of room for growth. The organization ranks Hawaii 41st in the country in ability by seniors to access long-term care options and through a resource center such as that to be created or another single entry point. The Legislature appropriated $1.4 million for the Aging and Disability Resource Center that aims to have sites in each county to integrate the range of long-term care opportunities into a single coordinated system.