Expanded services proposed for seniors

The Kupuna Caucus, which looks out for senior citizens at the Legislature, last week unveiled its package of bills for 2016, including measures to provide caregiver training, long-term care services and funding for resource centers statewide.

“Our population is aging,” Senate Human Services Chairwoman Suzanne Chun Oakland (D, Downtown- Nuuanu-Liliha) said in announcing the package Friday. “Right now more than a third is 50 years old or older. We need to ensure there are enough facilities to assist our kupuna so they can enjoy their golden years as best they can.”

Senate Bill 2064 and its companion House Bill 1881 appropriate money to restore staff and long-term care services at Leahi and Maluhia hospitals, which serve many patients on Medicare and Medicaid. The hospitals had to cut 64 positions and stop taking in new patients to remain afloat due to a $3.7 million deficit in fiscal year 2016, with declining reimbursements for care.

The Kupuna Caucus package also includes a proposal to fund services for seniors with a half-percentage-point increase in the general excise tax. The caucus is a bipartisan group of legislators and representatives of community organizations, government departments and individuals concerned about seniors’ well-being.

“Our seniors are the treasures of our community,” said Sen. Les Ihara Jr. (D, Moiliili-Kaimuki-Palolo). “Establishing the proper resources and services they need to live healthy, prosperous lives is what we intend to accomplish with these bills.”