Westmoreland Review

State Representative Jill Cooper (R-Westmoreland) has announced new legislative measures aimed at enhancing protections for seniors in Pennsylvania. "Unfortunately, the stories of seniors being taken advantage of are numerous," she said.

Cooper highlighted the vulnerability of seniors who often become targets for predators posing as friendly neighbors or nursing home staff. These individuals can manipulate seniors into signing documents that grant them undue control over their affairs.

"Seniors in Pennsylvania have worked in our steel mills and manufacturing plants. They have farmed our land, taught our kids, and cared for us when we were sick," Cooper stated. She emphasized the importance of providing care and protection to those who have contributed significantly to the Commonwealth.

During this legislative session, Cooper supported three key measures designed to safeguard seniors. One significant change includes mandatory appointment of legal counsel for individuals deemed incapacitated, along with certifications for court-appointed guardians and regular review hearings of guardianships.

Additionally, changes were made to Medicaid reimbursement calculations for nursing homes to stabilize funding processes, ensuring more predictable care reimbursements.

The Pennsylvania Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly (PACE/PACENET) program also saw improvements. A new law prevents participants from losing benefits due to Social Security cost-of-living increases. PACE is available to individuals earning $14,500 or less annually and married couples earning $17,700 or less. PACENET extends coverage to those earning between $14,500 and $33,500 individually or between $17,700 and $41,500 as a couple.

Cooper noted that an average 8.7% increase in Social Security benefits last year could have disqualified some participants without this legislative adjustment.

Last fall, Cooper hosted a policy hearing titled “Aging with Confidence” with the House Republican Policy Committee where various topics related to senior care were discussed.

Her office continues to assist seniors in applying for PACE or PACENET benefits. For more information, residents can contact her Washington Township/Export office at 724-387-9113 or her New Kensington office at 724-472-4102.

Pennsylvania has the fifth highest population of seniors in the U.S., making these measures particularly relevant. "When Pennsylvanians move on to the next phase of their lives... it should be a time of enjoyment and celebration," Cooper remarked.

In other news from Rep. Cooper’s office:

A new complaint form is now available from the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General for residents facing airline travel issues such as delays and cancellations. This initiative was developed in response to increasing consumer complaints nationwide and aims to assist Pennsylvania travelers better.

Upcoming events hosted by Rep. Cooper include:

- Mobile Shredding Event co-hosted with Sen. Joe Pittman on Monday, Sept. 16 at New Kensington district office from 4-6 p.m.

- Seniors for Safe Driving Classes on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at Avonmore Senior Center from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., and Thursday, Sept. 19 at Murrysville Senior Center from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

- Firearms Safety and Rights Seminar with Firearms Owners Against Crime on Thursday, Sept. 19 at Lower Burrell VFW Post 92 from 5-8 p.m.

For further details on these events or any other inquiries, constituents are encouraged to reach out via phone numbers provided above.