The White House Conference on Aging (WHCOA) is an important milestone event in the aging advocacy arena. Held only once every 10 years, it brings together policymakers, federal agency representatives, advocates and leaders from the community to identify issues of concern and policy solutions to improve the lives of older Americans. The last conference was held on July 13, 2015 at the White House.
This conference is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on what American Indian and Alaska Native elders needs to age with dignity.
NICOA Delegates Make A Difference
NICOA and the 2015 White House Conference on Aging
2015 White House Conference on Aging Listening Session
2015 White House Conference on Aging: Final Report
2005 WHCOA Tribal Protest (PDF)
2005 WHCOA Tribal Strategies (PDF)
NCAI Natl Indian Elders Solutions Session Final Report (PDF)
NM Indian Elders Forum Final Report (PDF)
WHCOA Tribal Summary Report 01-03-06 (PDF)
The four major themes:
Retirement Security – Having enough income from any source can provide peace of mind and stability to Elders as they age. Each of us has the ability to devise a plan to look ahead and prepare what is needed for a comfortable lifestyle with dignity.
Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS) – Certain challenges of aging can be overcome with the coordinated assistance of various caregivers who provide help with activities of daily living. The goal of LTSS is to insure the comfort and well-being of the elder regardless of where they live.
Health Aging – Many elders suffer from chronic diseases that could be managed with preventive services and education on how to care for themselves. Their quality of life could be vastly improved by encouraging them to become involved in their own wellness.
Financial Exploitation, Abuse and Neglect – Elder abuse occurs when a person harms a vulnerable adult either intentionally or through negligence. Elder abuse can include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, and abandonment. Financial exploitation occurs when strangers or trusted others take advantage of an elder and use the elders’ money for their personal use. The best preventive technique for an elder is to become aware of their options and rights.
