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In
1987, Montana passed its' version of the "Older Americans
Act," to reaffirm the State’s commitment to its older
citizens. Montana thus adopted the philosophy of the Older
Americans Act of 1965 by bringing it closer to home. The Montana
Act requires that the State Aging Services Bureau coordinate
activities of relevant departments of State government and other
organizations and agencies. As stated in the 1987 Montana Older
Americans Act:
"The
Legislature finds that older Montanans constitute a valuable
resource of this State and that their competence, experience,
and wisdom must be used more effectively for the benefit of all
Montanans.
The
Legislature further finds that a complete range of services is
not available in all areas of the State and that many Montanans
lack access to the services that are available.
The
Legislature declares that it is the policy of this State,
subject to available funding, to provide a wide range of
coordinated services to enable older Montanans to maintain an
independent lifestyle, avoid unnecessary institutional care, and
live in dignity.
It
is the intent of the Legislature that available federal, State,
regional, and local resources be used to strengthen the
economic, social, and general well-being of older Montanans and
that the State develop appropriate programs for older Montanans;
coordinate and integrate all levels of service, with emphasis on
the whole person; and promote alternative forms of service that
will create options for older Montanans."
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