Jackson County’s growing senior needs: A closer look at financial and legal support

As Jackson County’s senior population grows, many elderly residents face increased challenges in securing the support they need.

This includes access to essential financial planning tools like estate planning, power of attorney, and long-term care insurance. With the older population expected to nearly double by 2030, seniors are increasingly vulnerable to financial insecurity.

In fact, over 21% of Jackson County residents aged 60 and above live in poverty—well above the national senior poverty average of approximately 14%, underscoring the need for more resources and planning options.

Financial and legal security for seniors

One critical aspect of senior well-being is having access to resources that support financial and legal security. Estate planning helps seniors ensure that their assets are allocated according to their wishes, offering peace of mind and financial stability for loved ones.

Another essential tool is a power of attorney, which allows a trusted individual to make important decisions on behalf of a senior if they become unable to manage their own affairs.

For seniors facing health challenges and limited finances, these tools provide critical support and help alleviate family burdens.

Additionally, long-term care insurance has become increasingly important in Jackson County, providing coverage for extended care, such as stays in nursing homes or assisted living facilities.

Long-term care insurance ensures seniors receive the care they need without overwhelming their families financially.

Unfortunately, many elderly individuals lack access to these resources or the funds needed to secure them, leaving them exposed to financial risks and gaps in care.

The Senior Levy Fund

To meet the increasing needs of its elderly population, Jackson County has proposed the Senior Levy Fund. This initiative, supported by a small property tax increase, is known as Question 1 on the ballot.

If passed, this measure will generate between $7 million and $9 million annually, allowing Jackson County to provide essential services like home-delivered meals, accessible transportation, and community activities.

While the Senior Levy Fund does not directly cover estate planning or long-term care insurance, it helps ease some financial burdens on seniors, freeing up personal funds for these important long-term planning needs.

For instance, free or subsidized transportation to medical appointments can save seniors significant funds, which could then be directed toward obtaining a power of attorney or purchasing long-term care insurance.

This indirect support allows seniors more financial flexibility to secure their futures.

Real-Life challenges

Many older adults in Jackson County experience everyday struggles such as limited mobility, inadequate nutrition, and social isolation. Local agencies like KC Shepherd’s Center and Jewish Family Services frequently face funding shortages, forcing them to turn away seniors who need support. Programs like Meals on Wheels are essential, yet without reliable funding, agencies cannot meet the rising demand for these services.

Apart from food insecurity, some seniors also struggle to afford transportation or make necessary safety modifications to their homes, such as installing wheelchair ramps. Addressing these needs through the Senior Levy Fund would allow seniors to direct their own funds toward other financial needs, including securing a power of attorney or investing in estate planning.

Comprehensive senior support

Financial security for seniors encompasses more than just meeting daily expenses—it includes the ability to protect assets, make medical decisions, and plan for future care needs.

Estate planning is a valuable tool for seniors, allowing them to designate beneficiaries, create trusts, and establish living wills. Such planning helps seniors feel confident about their legacy and prevents the financial and emotional stress that can arise from a lack of preparation.

Power of attorney is equally important, as it gives a designated person authority over financial or health decisions if a senior becomes incapacitated.

Without this, family members may face legal obstacles when trying to manage their loved one’s care. Resources supporting these tools are essential for seniors’ peace of mind and quality of life.

Long-term care insurance is another important financial safety net, covering costs related to long-term care services.

This insurance helps seniors manage health expenses while reducing the financial strain on their families. Investing in this insurance can prevent future hardships by ensuring that seniors have the funds to receive adequate care.

Small investment, big impact

The proposed Senior Levy Fund would involve a small property tax increase, costing the average homeowner about $25 per year. Despite its minimal cost, this investment would make a substantial difference for Jackson County’s senior community. With dedicated funding, the county can improve daily life for its older adults, allowing them to focus on essential financial planning needs.

Organizations like HopeBUILDERS and AccessKC will benefit from this fund, enabling them to offer safer living environments and reduce waiting lists for essential services. This support will also ease the burden on family caregivers, as funding programs provide necessary assistance for seniors, improving well-being across generations.

Community benefits of voting yes

The Senior Levy Fund, managed by an independent board appointed by the legislature, ensures transparent and accountable distribution of funds.

By voting yes on Question 1, Jackson County residents can support elderly neighbors in aging with dignity. This initiative will allow the county to maintain and expand programs that foster community engagement, mental health, and physical well-being.

Passage of this measure would also enable Jackson County to advocate for complementary programs that address both immediate needs and future financial planning.

With a robust support network funded by the levy, the county could inspire further initiatives focusing on estate planning, power of attorney education, and long-term care options.

A secured future for seniors

As Jackson County’s senior population continues to grow, investing in their well-being is essential for creating a compassionate and supportive community.

Beyond immediate needs like meals, transportation, and social activities, the county can support seniors with resources that promote long-term financial security.

In the future, the proposed senior fund could lead to collaborations with local financial advisors, legal professionals, and healthcare providers who specialize in senior services.

These partnerships could offer workshops or discounted services to help seniors navigate estate planning and understand the benefits of long-term care insurance.

Providing access to these resources would empower seniors to make informed financial decisions that safeguard their independence and peace of mind.

A legacy of care and support

Voting yes on Question 1 not only addresses immediate needs but also strengthens the foundation for a supportive environment for aging adults. With funds from the levy, Jackson County can continue to meet urgent needs and anticipate future challenges. Knowing that their well-being is prioritized provides peace of mind and allows confident decision-making about the future.

This ballot measure represents more than a tax increase; it reflects a commitment to ensuring Jackson County’s seniors live their later years with dignity and security. Investing in seniors’ present needs enables them to plan for the future, establishing a legacy of care that benefits generations to come.