The Cámara de Representantes of Puerto Rico convened on October 3, 2024, to discuss pressing issues affecting the elderly population in the region. The meeting highlighted the growing demographic of older adults and the urgent need for government support to address their needs, particularly in light of the ongoing migration crisis.

During the session, representatives expressed concerns about the lack of adequate planning and resources for the increasing number of seniors, many of whom face abandonment by family members. Mariana Nogales Molinelli emphasized the necessity for a more inclusive approach from the government to ensure that older adults receive the support they require.

A significant point of discussion was the funding allocated to the Office of the Ombudsman for the Elderly. It was revealed that while the office receives approximately four million dollars from the general fund, it also has access to twenty million dollars in federal funds. However, there were questions regarding the transparency and effectiveness of how these funds are utilized, particularly since most of the budget appears to be directed towards salaries and administrative costs rather than direct assistance for housing or services for the elderly.

The representatives called for a reevaluation of the office's operations and urged for better coordination among non-profit organizations and community services to enhance support for seniors. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the allocation of funds and improve the overall support system for the elderly population in Puerto Rico.