Language Access Rights: Tips for Advocates of Limited English Proficient Older Adults

Over five million older adults across the country are Limited English Proficient (LEP). LEP older adults do not speak English as their primary language or they have a limited ability to speak, read, write, or understand English. The number of LEP older adults is growing. Federal and state laws protect the vital right to receive health information in a language one understands. However, many barriers make it difficult for older adults to assert these rights, impairing their ability to understand their healthcare and make decisions. This ultimately leads to poorer health outcomes and health disparities. A new NCLER PRACTICE TIP offers advice to advocates and counselors working with LEP older adults to better assert their language access rights.