U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy (NY-23) recently introduced two bipartisan bills aimed at strengthening standards of care and increasing access to health care for older Americans, with support from his colleagues in Congress and major aging organizations.

The first, HR 10072, the Long-Term Care Transparency Act, introduced with Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), aims to improve transparency in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes. By requiring the Administration on Aging to compile and provide to Congress critical data collected by state ombudsman programs, the bill aims to improve oversight of the safety, health, and rights of residents in establishments. Langworthy stressed the importance of this oversight to ensure older adults receive high-quality care, noting that this access to data will help Congress better address issues and shape policies that prioritize dignity and good – be elderly. Reps. Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Don Davis (NC-01) also co-sponsored the bill, which received support from groups like the National Council on Aging and Elder Justice Coalition.

The second piece of legislation, H.R. 10071, Evidence-Informed Health Promotion Act, co-led by Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-09), aims to expand access to health and wellness services for older adults, particularly in rural areas. The bill would ease funding restrictions for Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), allowing these agencies to implement “evidence-based,” adaptable, and cost-effective programs while remaining grounded in credible research. This would allow AAAs to expand their initiatives in chronic disease management, falls prevention and social programs aimed at combating isolation among older adults.

“Every senior deserves access to programs that help them stay healthy and connected,” Langworthy said, noting the bill would help underserved communities offer more relevant services to seniors. Supported by the National Council on Aging and USAging, the legislation aligns with efforts to expand the Older Americans Act to meet diverse health promotion needs nationwide.

Both bills place greater emphasis on improving health care options for seniors, with advocates applauding Langworthy’s leadership in advancing these pressing issues in people’s care and well-being elderly.

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