In less than a decade, over 30 percent of Washington state’s population will be over the age of 65. This rapid demographic shift is being called the “age wave,” and Rep. Steve Tharinger (D – Dungeness) thinks the state needs to focus on preparing to meet the needs of this population.
Yesterday, the state House of Representatives approved Tharinger’s bill setting up a select committee tasked with preparing the state for an increasing number of aging residents, including those with disabilities.
“There have been a lot of previous discussions around aging and disability issues, but now it’s time to focus those past efforts on the many needs that will be emerging in our communities,” Tharinger said. “Everything from health and long-term care, to housing support, to transportation and even financial independence needs to be considered as we go forward.”
In Clallam County, which is part of the 24th Legislative District represented by Tharinger, about one-quarter of the population is age 65 or older. Statewide, about 12 percent of the population is 65 or older.
Tharinger, who sits on the House Health Care and Wellness committee, is a strong advocate for health care access in rural areas. Last year, he fought against proposed deep cuts to state Medicaid payments for critical access hospitals, which provide 24-hour emergency care in rural areas. The proposed cuts could have meant major service reductions or facility closures. The final state budget preserved the necessary funding.
The bill attracted bipartisan support and passed the House on a vote of 89-8. It is endorsed by a broad range of organizations, including AARP Washington, the Washington State Senior Citizen’s Lobby, and the ElderCare Alliance.