It was a record turnout at at the , where more than 1,000 local seniors gathered to get free health screenings, receive information and legal advice, and consult with representatives from federal agencies.
“I look forward to this event because it’s a chance to provide seniors with the services and information they need, and every year, we hear incredible success stories,” said Congresswoman Sánchez, noting how a few years ago an attendee took a free prostrate screening at the senior fair only to find out that he had prostrate cancer.
"Fortunately, the screening detected the cancer early and he was able to get treatment and recover successfully,” she added.
This year's event, held on Tuesday, Aug. 14, featured more than 52 vendors, including some that provided free screenings for bone density, blood pressure, sun damage, and glucose levels. Other vendors provided information to seniors regarding financial planning, reverse mortgages, elder rights, housing rights, and caregiver assistance. Representatives from the IRS and Social Security Administration were also on hand to answer individual questions and the Center for Healthcare Rights gave information regarding Medicare and prescription drugs.
“There has been a lot of talk from House Republicans lately about ending Medicare and Social Security as we know it,” said Rep. Sánchez. “I want to make sure seniors know the facts. Turning Medicare into a voucher system would increase costs for seniors and end Medicare’s promise to secure health coverage for those who contributed through a lifetime of hard work.”
Congresswoman Sánchez also spoke about a bill she’s planning to re-introduce that would allow seniors who are eligible to receive home health care services from Medicare to choose adult day care services instead. The “Medicare Adult Day Care Services Act” would provide a new option without adding any additional cost.
