Senior Issues / Public News Service

Most insurance companies and Medicare allow open enrollment during specified times of the year, usually between October and December. (Adobe Stock)

Friday, September 22, 2023

Open enrollment for public, private health insurance begins soon

Open enrollment begins soon for most employer-sponsored health care coverage and benefits plans for the calendar year 2024. In Illinois, there will …

Health coverage aid groups and providers warn if you wait until the last minute and rush your enrollment for an insurance plan, you could end up in the wrong program or with benefits that do not suit your needs. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Health Coverage 101: Early research, expert guidance keep pitfalls at bay

When it comes to open enrollment and navigating health insurance options, experts say starting your research sooner rather than later is the best …

Medicare becomes available for most Americans at age 65. (airdone/Adobe Stock)

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Medicare's open enrollment period opportunity to shop for best plan

The open enrollment period for people with Medicare health coverage can feel daunting, but it is also an opportunity get the plan to best meet a …

Older and disabled adults have received more than $7.6 billion in property tax and rent relief since the start of the Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program in 1971. (Lordn/AdobeStock)

PA Expands Property Tax, Rent Rebate Program to Aid Older Adults

Pennsylvanians will soon see some financial relief with their property taxes and rent. Gov. Josh Shapiro recently signed House Bill 1100 into law…

The AARP's Andrus Awards are held once a year in each participating state, and also nationally.(piter2121/Adobe Stock)

Last Call for Nominations for AARP-Michigan Volunteer Award

Anyone can nominate a Michigan resident over age 50 for one of AARP's most prestigious awards, but it must be done by Friday. The Andrus Awards are …

Seven in 10 Oregonians over age 45 have been caregivers for a loved one. (anut21ng Stock/Adobe Stock)

Assisted Living Week: Access to Long-Term Care Critical, Oregonians Say

This week is National Assisted Living Week, highlighting the hard work put in to help older people and people living with disabilities. Many …

The price of Enbrel, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, has increased by 701% since coming to market in 1998, and the price of Januvia, used to treat diabetes, has increased by 275% since 2006, according to AARP. (Adobe Stock)

Mainers Celebrate First Step in Lowering Medicare Drug Prices

Hundreds of thousands of Mainers are expected to benefit from the Biden Administration's recent announcement that it will begin drug price negotiation…

AARP researchers say nearly 450,000 Wisconsin residents, or 46% of those 65 and older, live in families that rely on Social Security for at least half of their income. (Adobe Stock)

Hearing From People, Not Politicians, About Social Security

Keeping Social Security afloat without enacting cuts remains a thorny topic in Congress. As those debates continue to unfold, Wisconsin residents …

Due to service disruptions caused by the three-year pandemic, the Social Security Administration plans to implement a new telephone platform for its toll-free number by the end of 2023. (Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Adobe Stock)

Many Texans May Be Unaware They're Eligible for SSI Benefits

Most people eligible for Social Security know what's required to access the program, but another federal program aimed at underserved communities …

A recent survey found more than one in three older adults lack extra prescription medications they would need in case of an emergency. (MIKHAIL/Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

Survey: Opportunities for TN Older Adults to Increase Disaster Preparedness

September is National Preparedness Month, when AARP raises awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies. A recent …

New Mexico's Healthy Foods Market, operated by Roadrunner Food Bank, distributes fresh produce and perishable food items monthly in nine urban, rural and tribal communities. (Photo courtesy RRFB)

New Mexico's Food Activists Shine Light on Hunger

The lines at hunger relief organizations are longer now as pandemic-related benefits have ended, but you can help your neighbors with grocery …

Only 29% of respondents to a recent AARP survey said they had a backup power generator. (Oleksandr/Adobe Stock)

ID Event to Help Idahoans Prepare for Disasters

Next week, AARP Idaho is holding a town hall on preparing for disasters before they strike. On Tuesday, the regional Federal Emergency Management …

The Ready Campaign's 2023 National Preparedness Month theme is

Following Extreme NV Weather, Are You Prepared for Next Disaster?

The state of Nevada has gotten its fair share of intense weather in recent weeks - and with September being National Preparedness Month, experts are …

As of Aug. 15, 2023, the federal government lists 75 disasters in the U.S. and its territories, compared with 55 in the same period last year. Senior advocates under climate change threats, more older adults need to be prepared for a disaster. (Adobe Stock)

Survey Indicates More Older Adults Need Disaster Readiness Plans

Most older adults are not as prepared as they should be to respond quickly in the event of natural disasters, which can strike with little notice…

Utah is one of the states that pays and administers its own supplemental payments. People can contact the state directly for payment information. (Adobe Stock)

Eligible Utahns Could Qualify for Supplemental Security Income Payments

Many people in Utah and across the country are eligible for financial aid on top of receiving Social Security payments, but are not aware of it…

As of Aug. 15, 2023, the federal government lists 75 disasters in the U.S. and its territories, compared with 55 in the same period last year. (Adobe Stock)

Most Older Adults Lack Emergency Plan for Natural Disasters

Most older adults are not as prepared as they should be to respond quickly in the event of natural disasters which can strike with little notice…

Federal health officials say people living with dementia often receive fragmented care, making it harder on both the patient and their caregiver as they try to manage their needs. (Adobe Stock)

Streamlining Care for Alzheimer's Patients

This fall, a key federal agency will open up applications for providers who want to join a nationwide model to improve Alzheimer's care. South Dakota …

As of August, the federal government says 75 disasters occurred in the United States and its territories so far in 2023, compared with 55 in the same period last year. (Wikimedia)

Report: Older Adults Lack Emergency Plan for Natural Disasters

Emergency rescue officials say many older adults in Illinois and elsewhere are not as prepared as they should be to respond to natural and man-made di…

Some 70% of Michigan residents are either currently providing care or have provided care in the past for an adult relative or friend. (Studio Romantic/Adobe Stock)

Michigan Adults Strive to Stay Mentally Sharp as They Age

AARP Michigan's Vital Voices survey results are in, and more than 700 Michigan adults 45 and older say they are most concerned with staying mentally …

About one in three adults age 85 or older may have some form of dementia, according to the National Institute on Aging. (pololia/Adobe Stock

Often Hidden, Research Casts Light on Kinless Adults with Dementia

Washington state researchers are spotlighting an often overlooked population: kinless adults with dementia. The population is often difficult to …

A 2023 AARP survey found 64% of workers 40 and older reported seeing or experiencing some form of age discrimination in the workplace, and 65% agreed that Americans should not be required to provide age-related information during the hiring process. (Adobe Stock)

New CO Age-Discrimination Law Could Help Fill In-Demand Jobs

Colorado employers will soon be barred from asking questions that could reveal someone's age on a job application. Colorado lawmakers passed the …

Studies show elder abuse or neglect can lead to early death, cause harm to physical and psychological health, destroy social and family ties, and lead to devastating financial loss. (Adobe Stock)<br />

NH Increases Elder Abuse Prevention Efforts as Older Population Grows

New Hampshire officials in charge of investigating elder abuse are ramping up staff and education efforts to better protect the state's growing elderl…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity such as brisk walking for seniors, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity such as hiking, jogging or running. (Adobe Stock)

AARP IA Grant Transforms Town's Wellness Plan

A Community Challenge grant from AARP Iowa is making the town of Graettinger more senior friendly. Eight Iowa communities received the grants…

The top inbound city in 2022 was Tucson, Arizona, according to Allied Van Lines. (Adobe Stock)

Is AZ Still a Retirement Haven? Some Say That is Changing

Arizona has long been known as one of the 'retirement friendly states,' in the U.S. for its affordability, but that is changing. Brendon Blake…

According to the American Heart Association, people feel more confident performing Hands-Only CPR and are more likely to remember the correct chest-compression rate when trained to the beat of a familiar song. (9dreamstudio/Adobe Stock)

From Beyoncé to 'Baby Shark,' the Right Tune Can Save a Life

With popular artists like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift touring Michigan this summer, the American Heart Association is reminding people that some of …

According to the United Way of Southern Nevada, Project REACH helped more than 1,800 households in 2022. (Adobe Stock)

Program Helps Southern NV Seniors Pay Past-Due Utility Bills

One Nevada program is aiming to help seniors on fixed incomes pay their utility bills. United Way of Southern Nevada has announced the dates of the …

The unpaid care provided by the 115,000 caregivers in Montana is valued at $1.76 billion, according to new state data available in AARP's latest report in the Valuing the Invaluable series. (Adobe Stock)

AARP MT Calls for In-Home Care Reform

More than 48 million Americans count themselves as in-home caregivers, helping loved ones live independently as long as possible. A recent AARP …

AARP Connecticut has funded 29 projects through the Livable Community Grant Program, with 2022 seeing the most projects funded since its creation in 2018. (Adobe Stock)

AARP CT Opens RFP for Livable Communities Grant Program

AARP Connecticut has released its request for proposals and application for the Livable Spaces grant program. In its sixth year, the program provides …

Idaho lawmakers passed changes to voter registration during the 2023 session. (Mark Bradbury/Adobe Stock)

ID Voter Registration Law Could Hurt Ballot Measures' Chances

Voter registration has changed in Idaho. Along with reducing the number of eligible voters, critics say it could also hurt ballot initiatives' …

Matt Fairchild was able to end his suffering in 2022 using California's End of Life Option Act.(Fairchild family)

Changes to CA's Medical Aid-in-Dying Law Spur 47% Jump in Use

A law shortening the waiting period for medical aid in dying has led to a 47% jump in prescriptions for the medication - according to a new report fro…

When you get SSI, you may also get Medicaid, which helps pay doctor and hospital bills. Your local social services or medical assistance office can give you information about Medicaid. (Vitalii Vodolazskyi/AdobeStock)

Feds to Expand Awareness of SSI Benefits to Tennesseans

The Social Security Administration has taken a proactive step to bridge the gap between critical financial assistance and the people who may be eligib…

With a grant from AARP Oregon, the Sutherlin Library Foundation will help close the digital divide for local residents. (sutherlinlibrary.org)

Grants Help Make Four OR Communities More Age-Friendly

Four Oregon organizations have received grants from AARP Oregon to help make their communities more age friendly. One of the chosen projects is the …

In 2018, Michigan's Proposal 3 was touted as a

Report Cites 'Flawed' Voter Purges as Unfair

There are many good reasons for states to update their voter rolls in preparation for elections, but a new report contended many are too zealous …

Almost 60% of caregivers in the United States are women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (GeckoStudio/AdobeStock)

AARP: Texas Needs More Caregivers for Aging Population

One in five people across the United States is a full- or part-time caregiver, with those in Texas providing $41 billion in unpaid care each year…

According to AARP, Community Challenge Grants can be used

Six NE Communities Receive AARP Grants to Boost 'Livability'

Projects in six Nebraska communities, large and small, are among this year's AARP Community Challenge Grant winners. A total of $3.6 million was …

In an AARP survey, Virginia voters said they would support the idea of importing prescription drugs from wholesalers and licensed pharmacies and/or joining a buying pool offering prescription drug discounts. (Adobe Stock)

Survey: Virginia Needs Lower Prescription Drug Prices

Despite partisan divides on many issues, a new survey shows Virginia voters are like-minded about the need to do something about rising prescription …

The National Weather Service says a heat index at or above 90 degrees poses a significant health risk. (nmsd.k12.nm.us)

Study: NM Needs New Policies to Protect Children from Extreme Heat

New Mexico must do more to protect children and other vulnerable residents from extreme heat, according to a new report from the advocacy …

A new senior center in Highlands Ranch will offer a ten-week evidence-based

First Highlands Ranch Senior Center on Track to Open in 2024

Residents age 55 and older can now sign up for inaugural memberships with the first-ever senior center to open in Highlands Ranch, just south of …

One in nine Missourians was helped by SNAP benefits in 2022. For older Missourians, the average monthly benefit was $119. (Kzenon/Adobe Stock)

MO Ranks Low for Senior Food Security, Health; Steps Being Taken

The latest report ranking the status of seniors by state identifies room for improvement in Missouri, placing the state 40th overall. Although in …

Former President Harry Truman was present when President Lyndon Johnson enacted Medicare. (White House Press Office)

Proponents Celebrate 58th Anniversary of Medicare's Start

Nearly six decades after its creation, Medicare continues to provide a health-care safety net for older Americans. On July 30, 1965, President …

Three positive trends for seniors nationwide in UnitedHealthcare's 2023 Senior Report were a 6% decrease in the number experiencing food insecurity, a 7% increase in those with access to high-speed internet, and a 16% increase in the number of geriatric providers. (Halfpoint/Adobe Stock)

NE Receives Mixed Reviews on Well Being of State's Seniors

Nebraska received mixed reviews regarding the well-being of the state's seniors in United Healthcare's 2023 Health Rankings Senior Report. The state …

The U.S. population age 65 and older grew nearly five times faster than the total population over the 100 years from 1920 to 2020, according to the 2020 census. The older population reached 55.8 million, or 16.8% of the population of the United States, in 2020. (Adobe Stock)

Iowa AARP Calls for Major Shift in Long-Term Health Care Model

As housing prices soar and wages for health care providers lag, advocates for Iowa's aging population are calling for a major change in caring for …

As climate change worsens, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported every year from 2013 through 2021 was the warmest year on record. 2021 was the 45th year in a row with global temperatures above the 20th-century average. (Adobe Stock)

CT Provides Heat Safety for Seniors

As summer reaches its peak, Connecticut is working to keep seniors safe from intensifying heat. Although summer can be fun, the rising temperatures …

Children qualify for SSI benefits if they have physical or mental conditions that severely limit their daily activities for a duration of 12 months or more, and if they reside in a household with limited income or resources. (Vitalii Vodolazskyi/Adobe Stock)

Agency Works to Boost Awareness of SSI Benefits in Alabama

In an effort to bridge the gap between crucial financial assistance and the people who may be eligible for it, the Social Security Administration has …

Care provided by millions of unpaid family caregivers across the United States was valued at $600 billion in 2021, a $130 billion increase in unpaid contributions since 2019, according to AARP. <br />(Adobe Stock)

Mainers Celebrate Passage of Paid Family Medical Leave Program

After years of grassroots advocacy, Maine will become the 13th state in the nation to adopt a mandatory paid family and medical leave program…

Older women are more likely to live in poverty than men as a result of wage discrimination and having to take time out of the workforce for caregiving, according to the National Council on Aging. (Adobe Stock)

GA Program Boosts Income, Quality of Life for Older Adults

Many older adults in Georgia are facing difficulties with housing expenses, health care, and decreasing savings. However, one senior program in …

According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, 65% of older people with long-term care needs rely exclusively on family and friends to provide assistance. (Adobe Stock)

Ohio Residents Provide $21 Billion in Unpaid Care for Loved Ones

In Ohio, more than 1.5 million individuals are providing about $21 billion in unpaid care, according to the latest data from AARP, a more than $4 …

This summer's data from AARP found 37.2 million people age 55 and older were employed, a slight increase from May. Unemployment for the same group declined to 1 million in the same time period. (Adobe Stock)

Virginia Seniors Get Help with Job Training, Confidence Building

A Virginia program is helping older workers launch their "second act" in the workforce. The Northern Virginia Senior Community Services Employment …

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Senior Issues