[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 17975]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


[[Page 17975]]

          NATIONAL ASSISTED LIVING WEEK--SEPTEMBER 10-16, 2000

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 12, 2000

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, the face of aging has changed 
dramatically. Americans are living longer, more active lives. 
Involvement in independent activities such as work, hobbies, and social 
life can add quality--and years--to a senior's life Yet, while 
independence and control over their lives is as important to seniors as 
their physical and mental health, many people avoid planning for senior 
housing until a pending crisis, putting their own freedom of choice at 
risk and straining family relationships. Just as people have learned to 
plan ahead for their financial retirement, it should become commonplace 
to plan for long-term housing and care.
  In recognition of National Assisted Living Week, September 10-16, 
please join me in inviting all seniors to take the time now to talk 
openly with their families about their senior housing options and 
preferences, just in case supportive housing ever becomes necessary for 
them.
  We all value the right to live in our own homes as long as possible 
and to make our own decisions. Americans must plan ahead in order to 
protect their preferences and maximize their lifestyle options later. 
There is a rich variety of senior housing and care options to choose 
from, so it's important to become fully educated.
  One of these options, assisted living, has become a cornerstone for 
senior care. An assisted living residence is a special combination of 
housing, personalized supportive services and health care designed to 
meet the needs--both scheduled and unscheduled--of those who require 
help with activities of daily living.
  I urge all Americans to learn more about assisted living and how 
seniors can age in a loving home-like environment with dignity and 
independence.

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