Volunteer Freedom Act

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor May as Older Americans Month. Since 1963 our Nation has come together to celebrate the seniors in our communities. This month the theme is ``Never Too Old to Play'', which emphasizes how important it is for older Americans to stay active and engaged in their communities.

Communities are encouraged to organize social events like trivia night, painting a mural or a team photo scavenger hunt to encourage seniors to get involved. Just this past week I hosted a senior luncheon in my district.

This annual event is not only an opportunity to listen to my constituents concerns over a great meal, but it is a time for seniors to get together and enjoy themselves. We had performances from local entertainment groups, speeches and karaoke. It was a wonderful time for all involved.

I have also introduced H.R. 3794, the Expanding Opportunities for Older Americans Act of 2011. This bill would amend the Older Americans Act of 1965 to include government funding to hire seniors who still wish to be working and active. Although seniors have already given so much, I truly believe they have much more to offer.

Older Americans Month is also a great time to bridge the generation gap. Children to young adults can learn so much from the older generation, but they rarely interact in everyday life. There is so much valuable knowledge the young people from this country can receive from the older generation, and this is an opportunity for people of all ages to get out there and interact together.

This month also gives me a chance to address an issue of key importance; caring for seniors with chronic illness and preventing unnecessary hospitalizations. In-home care can make a huge difference in recovery from illness and inpatient hospital treatments. Being around family and in the comfort of one's own home makes these traumatic experiences that much less painful.

Mr. Speaker, the majority of the skilled home healthcare providers in my district deliver high-quality, clinically effective and highly efficient care. In-home care is so important for the seniors who would otherwise be forced into hospitals without it.

As an elected official I want to make sure that Medicare funds in my district are going to those who qualify and deserve it, so we can continue to provide the best care for our seniors. With such a tough economic outlook throughout the nation it is of vital importance that we are not handing money over to criminals who are trying to play the system.

Mr. Speaker, after decades of paying taxes and working hard so that they will have security in retirement, the seniors of America deserve our full support. I hope every community takes this month to plan at least one event supporting the older generation, and bringing people of all ages together.

This month I honor the seniors of the 37th district of California, as well as all seniors across the country. Thank you for all you do, and do not forget, ``It is never too old to play''.