Older Iowans Legislature
The Older Iowans Legislature is the only “Grass Roots” organization in Iowa that continually strives to produce an opportunity for Older Iowans to complete their lifelong journey in dignity, with respect from others, and receiving support when necessary.
We ask the public for Senior Issue Inputs that we use to educate legislators and if necessary, introduce legislation to correct current issues. Send us your issue and background so we can include you in our annual meeting discussions.
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
We are a total volunteer and non-partisan organization that operates under a nonprofit umbrella.
Our members advocate State Legislators, the Governor and staff, and other organizations to assist in improving the “Quality of Life” for Older Adult Iowans. We have historically placed special emphasis on the frail elderly however our overall goal is to make Iowa that model state for all Older Adults. Get involved by joining the Older Iowans Legislators and stay active in assisting others.
Legislative Priorities
The Board of Directors are currently planning for the 2026 Annual meeting. We are asking your input for your priority issues that we will present to the 2027 Iowa State Legislature. Your issue will be discussed at our September 28 2026 annual meeting. Send us your thoughts at info@olderiowans.org
Meeting the demands of Dementia Services thru the Area Agency on Aging
Insure adequate and consistent funding for this program.
Funding for the Return to Community Programs
Insure adequate and consistent funding for this program.
Improved Information availability for older adults to assist in the aging process.
Design, fund, and implement methods of providing answers and recommendations for older adults that will assist in the aging process.
Increase support for Direct Care Workers
Define and Implement methods and standards to insure an adequate, capable workforce is available to support the growing demands of an aging population
Latest News
The Older Iowan Legislature is collecting areas that will benefit the Iowa aging population - In general what legislative actions can help insure a better Iowa as we grow older. Please send your inputs and comments to our email listed below. Let's have a conversation about making Iowa a better place for the aging process.
If you have comments and additional suggestions, please send an email to info@olderiowans.org.
Observation Box
The shortage of trained healthcare professionals and direct care workers are a major concern. We will be working to provide suggested solutions to this key problem
2027 Iowa General Assembly
The first day of the Iowa State Legislature session is January 11
Nursing Home Care for Iowa Seniors -
Establishing a Culture of Caring
Iowa’s Aging Population
· Iowa’s current 65+ population - 586,030 (2022)
· 18.3% of the state’s total population.
· 65+ population is estimated to be at 728,943 by 2060.
· 3.8% of Iowans age 65+ in are in nursing facilities, 21,362 Iowans
· 6.8 beds per 1,000 people age 65+ in Iowa versus a national average of 4.5.
· 50.8% of Iowa Medicaid goes to Long Term Care Centers
· Estimated more than $1 Billion for Nursing Home Care
Transforming Nursing Home Care in Iowa
Required transformation of nursing home care in Iowa requires a strategy that pivots from reactive regulation to proactive, culture-driven quality improvement.
A new standard to transform nursing home care is required