AARP Statement on Governor Sununu’s Proposed Budget

The following is a statement from AARP New Hampshire State Director Todd Fahey on New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu’s proposed budget released yesterday.

“AARP New Hampshire is pleased to see that the Governor’s proposed budget appears to provide a significant increase in home- and community-based services for seniors and adults with physical disabilities.  AARP has been fighting for many years in offering more services that help keep people in their homes and communities as they age.

“New Hampshire’s long-term care system is in need of serious overhaul and this is a good step in the right direction.  Nearly all – 95% -- of New Hampshire residents 50 and older say they want to age at home, which is one-third the cost of aging in a nursing home, the most expensive setting.

“With a tight state budget, AARP is happy that the Granite State is picking up the pace and investing more into our home- and community-based system, especially as our population ages.  By 2026, the leading edge of the boomers turn 80 and by 2050, the population 85 and older will triple.

“We know more must be done to give people the care they want, in the setting of their choice, at a lesser price.  AARP will continue fighting for this increase as the Governor’s proposed budget makes its way through the House and Senate.”