Friend,
I hope you have the opportunity to spend time with family and friends for Thanksgiving. For many, this is the first time in a few years the entire family can gather around the dinner table. For others, including those whose families are in nursing homes or long-term care facilities, this Thanksgiving isn't that unique.
As a kid, I remember visiting my great-grandmother at the nursing home with my grandmother and mother. I would wait outside her room, where I could hear them cry as they found her without clean undergarments, sleeping in dirty sheets, and not being cared for.
As governor, I will ensure that we protect our most vulnerable populations, and raise standards in nursing homes. We can do that by: 1) Removing our elders from the current privatized Medicaid managed care system, 2) Providing higher quality care at home, and 3) Raising pay and benefits for long-term care workers.
If you agree with this proposal, please add your name in support. We'll be sure to share the number of you who agree as we publicize our plan throughout the campaign.
In the next decade, Iowa will be home to more Iowans over the age of 60 than under the age of 18. This presents an incredible opportunity to lead the nation by rethinking how and where we provide care.
Iowa is only as good as the health and wellness of our most vulnerable populations. I pledge to bring us together to make sure we do our very best for everyone.
Thanks, and enjoy your Thanksgiving.
- Ras
