WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Benjamin L. Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-Md.) today announced Maryland will receive $600,000 in
Recovery Act funds to help seniors with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and arthritis, live longer and healthier lives.
“Investing in America’s future knows no age limit, which is why programs that help older adults take better care of their own chronic conditions are an important part of the
Recovery Act,” said
Senator Cardin. “Learning how to better manage chronic conditions is an essential step toward healthier and more active lives with less pain and less chance of costly hospitalizations. It’s a winning formula for our seniors and our health care system.”
“This is about saving lives in our communities and saving money in the health care system,”
Senator Mikulski said. “Chronic diseases are silent killers that steal seniors’ health and independence.
We must make sure Maryland’s seniors access the care they need and deserve. This grant will give seniors the knowledge and support they need to live longer and healthier lives.
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The
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funds will be used to support evidence-based prevention programs at the community level that have been shown to empower seniors by teaching them how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Seniors learn self-management techniques in community centers and peer learning groups that provide support and socialization.
Seven out of every 10 American deaths are attributable to chronic diseases, which disproportionately affect older Americans. Some of the most common chronic conditions are arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes, which affect 21 percent of the population aged 60 and older, or about 10.3 million people.
“These grants will allow us to better serve Maryland seniors living with chronic diseases, and develop the workforce that delivers these important services,” said
Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley. “I want to thank Senator Mikulski, Senator Cardin and the entire Maryland delegation for securing these important funds. The
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has been a lifeline for many states, allowing us to continue investments in our shared priorities.”
The grant program is part of a larger $650 million effort known as the Communities Putting Prevention to Work Initiative and builds on current efforts to support chronic disease self-management programs in 27 states. All 56 states and territories are eligible to apply for the grants.
