OLDER AMERICANS AND MiCASSA Medicaid Community Attendant Services and Supports Act MiCASSA redirects the focus of the Medicaid long term services program from institutions to home and community services and supports. It enables older people to make real choices. Given "REAL CHOICE" people overwhelmingly choose "HOME SWEET HOME." Studies show that seniors currently living in America's institutions and nursing homes do not have more severe disabilities than those who are living in their own homes with attendant services and supports. MiCASSA means REAL CHOICE! Older Americans generally prefer to be in their own homes. They do NOT want to live in nursing homes. Surveys show that most people who need long term services and supports prefer to remain in their homes and to "age in place." What do YOU want for yourself, for other family members? Tell your legislator!!! Home-based services DO work for older Americans. Although people in nursing homes do tend to be elderly (average age: 84 years) many older Americans are living in their own homes and communities with the help of community services and supports, but these programs are very limited. Some Americans diagnosed with Alzheimer's are cared for at home, but both the individual and the family members need appropriate supports, which MiCASSA could provide. Family members can't do it all, need help. MiCASSA is the answer! "HOME SWEET HOME"