As the Legislative Session gets into full swing, lawmakers will be asked to deal with a number of issues affecting the elderly.

Perhaps the highest profile of all the issues impacting senior citizens is that of pedestrian safety. Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland, representing the Kupuna Caucus, said the Legislature is well aware of community concern as it has been in past sessions.

"And we're hopeful that this time we will be able to pass a bill again and that this time the governor will be able to release the funding so - I know that's a very critical issue," said Senator Chun Oakland, who represents the Sand Island, Nuuanu districts.

However, there are other issues that have a direct impact on seniors and their families. To keep seniors independent for as long as possible, the State has a program that assists with adult day care, transportation, chore services and home delivered meals.

"So we have a program called Kupuna Care and this is moneys that are distributed to the county offices on aging from the state to help folks, not based on income but on need," said Chun Oakland.

Chun Oakland is hopeful the Kupuna Care Program can be expanded. Adult day care facilities, for example, often have waiting lists. The Kupuna Caucus is also interested in legislation that would help prevent the exploitation of seniors through Adult Protective Services.

"Right now, if you are a dependent adult, then you can get some assistance from A.P.S. But we are finding that people that are not dependent but are vulnerable, older adults, really do need care," said Chun Oakland.

By 2011, the first of the Baby Boomers will hit retirement age and services for the elderly will be in even higher demand. The legislature is considering a commission that would address the need.

"So that commission would be appointed by the governor, the senate and the house and basically come up with a plan in hopefully two or three years for funding more on a statewide basis, more consistent funding source," said Chun Oakland.