The Great Society Programs (2)

The Social Security Act was amended to pro-
vide for health care benefits to the aged under the Health Insurance Program (Medicare) and to public assistance recipients through the Health Assistance Program (Medicaid). Several pieces of
new legislation designed to meet needs not
specifically addressed through existing resources also were passed. The Older Americans Act (1965) established a legal base for developing senior luncheon programs, health screening, transporta-
tion, meals-on-wheels programs, and recreational activities. The Civil Rights Act (1964) sought to end discrimination in employment and in the use of public business facilities. It also was targeted
toward nondiscriminatory extension of credit. Education bills were passed that sought to rectify many of the educational disadvantages experienced by children of the poor.