ASCOG Aging Advocate November 30, 2012

Good morning!  It's Friday!

Today is the 83rd anniversary of the birth of this man.

Medicare reimbursement for doctors could go down 27% without intervention to avoid the fiscal cliff.

Oklahoma Honor Flights is accepting applications for veterans from the Korean War, WWII and veterans older than 90.

A new study shows that aging eyes can discern text nearly as efficiently as younger eyes due to the adaptive ability of seniors in discerning words.

Save the date for the ASCOG Senior Day at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center in Duncan - April 3, 2013!

You have only 7 more shopping days before Medicare Open Enrollment ends.  Please call Heather at ASCOG for more details on how to choose the Medicare plan that's best for you.

Emily Drake shares seven tips on how caregivers can avoid burnout.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 29, 2012

Happy Thursday!  Are you ready for Christmas yet?

On this date in 1972, Atari released this, their first commercially successful video game.  What's its name?

NPR's Julie Rovner argues that raising the Medicare eligibility age will have "hidden costs."  Meanwhile, Matt Pressberg argues that Medicare "must grow older to survive."

Officials are warning Medicare recipients of a current scam where callers are asking for personal information.

Monroe County, NY has joined with Niagara University to develop training for first responders on how to help people with disabilities.

OPA's Phil Woodward tells us that Oklahoma pharmacists consider the Medicare Part D program to be a success story.

Nancy Churnin of the Dallas Morning News shares how loving caregivers are the "best medicine." 

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 28, 2012

Happy Wednesday!  Only nine more shopping days until Medicare Open Enrollment expires.

On this date in 1925, this long-lasting program made its first broadcast in Nashville as the "WSM Barn Dance."  What is the popular name for this program today?

Medicare and Medicaid are still fair game as Congress and President Obama negotiate the so-called "Fiscal Cliff."  One item that remains on the table is raising the Medicare eligibility age.

One way to keep Medicare spending down is to join the efforts in preventing Medicare fraud.  To learn more, contact Heather Sladek at 1.800.658.1466.

Dr. Sanjay Sethi, a Texas oncologist, explains how caregivers are angels who need angels.

The U.S. Senate will soon consider the U.N. treaty on equal rights for persons with disabilities.  The future of the treaty remains uncertain.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 27, 2012

Happy Tuesday!  How's everybody?

On this date in 1934, Lester Joseph Gillis, was shot and killed by the FBI.  By what name was he better known?

The late Larry Hagman, who played Major Nelson and J.R. Ewing, left us some real life lessons on how to manage our retirement savings.

Hospitals are now receiving Medicare penalties for readmissions.  Currently nearly one in five Medicare patients are readmitted to the hospital within one month of discharge.

With the so-called "Fiscal Cliff" looming, raising the Medicare eligibility age is still on the table.

 A new survey shows that 75 percent of family caregivers have annual incomes below $25,000.

Seniors can save hundreds of dollars by carefully reviewing their Medicare plans.  Open enrollment expires December 7.  If you live in the ASCOG service area, please call Heather at 1.800.658.1466 for information and assistance on reviewing your Medicare plan.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 26, 2012

Happy Monday everyone!  Did you get enough turkey?

On this date in 1842, this school was founded in an old log chapel.  It would later become one of the most successful college football programs in NCAA history with over thirteen consensus national championships.  What is the name of this University?

Parents with disabilities continue to have to fight for their right to raise their own children.

Medicare assistance personnel provide more than just counseling on coverage and benefits.  CMS provides this fact sheet on what you should expect and avoid when an insurance agent meets with you one on one.

Emily Kilgus, 83, of Lawton, donated a flag to replace one stolen from the Fort Sill National Cemetery.

According to a recent nationwide study, Medicare and Medicaid patients are waiting longer to receive treatment for breast cancer.

Ashley Hyde-Fuhr, a former USAO student, continues her annual campaign to send 450 Christmas cards to area veterans who are residents in long-term care facilities.

The stress for family caregivers of Alzheimer's patients can be magnified during the holiday season.

Megan McCauley is a world class athlete.  She is also paralyzed from the mid-stomach down.

If you live in the ASCOG area please take our online survey for seniors needs.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 21, 2012

Happy Wednesday!  Happy Thanksgiving!

On this date in 1877 Thomas Edison announced that he had invented the phonograph.

A local hero serves Thanksgiving dinner to veterans and their widows.

A study by the Yale School of Public Health suggests that people with a more positive view on aging appear to have a better recovery rate from severe disabilities.

The Association of American Medical Colleges is predicting that the ongoing demand on health care by Boomers will not be met with an adequate supply of doctors.

AARP's Chuck Ross provides Medicare factors to consider before moving your parents.

During this time of Thanksgiving, remember to say "thank you" to family caregivers.

ASCOG offices close today at noon for Thanksgiving.  We will open again on Monday, November 26.  In the mean time, if you need information about available services, please call 1.800.211.2116.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 20, 2012

Happy Tuesday everyone!  How's everybody?

On this date in 1985 Microsoft released Windows 1.0.

U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS) responds to allegations by critics that Medicare policies promoted risky drug compounding that led to the recent meningitis scare.

Citing potential cost, Governor Mary Fallin announced yesterday that Oklahoma will not participate in the health insurance exchange required under the federal health care law informally referred to as "Obamacare." 

Sheryl Ubelacker breaks through stigma and prejudice to discuss people with disabilities and sex.

Moneywatch's Steve Vernon explains why this is the best time for Boomers to be aging despite the recent economic crisis.

You have 34 more days to shop for Christmas, but only 17 more days to change your Medicare plan.  Open enrollment ends December 7.

Dwayne Clark provides four strategies for Alzheimer's caregivers, beginning with taking care of their own needs first.

ASCOG offices will close at noon tomorrow and will open again on November 26.  Happy Thanksgiving!

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 19, 2012

Happy Monday!  Are you ready for some turkey?

On this day in 1863, Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address to dedicate a military cemetery in Pennsylvania.

Medicare premiums are going up $5 per month in 2013.  Contact your local Medicare Assistance Program for more information on how to make the right choice during open enrollment.  For those in the ASCOG area, call Teena or Heather at 1.800.658.1466.

As obesity curbs longevity, Oklahomans remain in denial.

People with disabilities were hit hard during the recession, but they can be great assets in the workplace.

The Center for Enabled Living in Singapore provides a one-stop shop for caregivers.

According to new research, nearly half of the 42 million caregivers nationwide are performing health care tasks that were traditionally reserved for doctors and nurses.  The lifetime effects can be costly for caregivers downsizing their jobs in order to care of their loved ones.

The Oklahoma Aging Advocacy Leadership Academy is seeking applicants for their 2013 classes.

ASCOG offices will close Wednesday at noon in celebration of Thanksgiving.

What's is like to be forcibly removed from your home and placed in a nursing home?  The Highbergs of East Petersburg, PA will tell you.

Academy Will Discuss Aging Advocacy

Oklahoma City - A free training opportunity will be available in 2013 for individuals who would like to volunteer and become community advocates for Oklahoma's aging population. The Oklahoma Aging Advocacy Leadership Academy identifies, trains and develops volunteer leaders and advocates in issues related to aging.

In September 2012, the National Association of States United for Aging and Disability honored OAALA with its Excellence in Volunteer Services Award at its national conference in Washington, D.C.

"Academy participants become committed leaders for today and tomorrow to successfully advocate for Oklahoma’s aging population," said Judy Leitner who developed the academy for OKDHS. The academy is sponsored by the Aging Services Division and is funded in part by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.

The classes are held at 2401 N.W. 23rd St., suite 40, Oklahoma City, and overnight accommodations are available for those who qualify. Travel reimbursement may be provided under state travel reimbursement act. The course consists of 10, two-day sessions over a one-year period. Instruction is tentatively set to begin in February 2013.

Meals and snacks will be provided on Friday and Saturday. Text books and resource materials are also covered. There is no tuition fee. However, since OAALA sponsors are providing tuition, each participant should plan to complete the full course.

Leitner said applicants should demonstrate a willingness to utilize constructive advocacy techniques to effect social change, sensitivity to the needs of people, an ability to see things from the point of view of others, and a commitment to building communities that include and value all older persons and persons with disabilities.

“The graduates of the academy have made, and are continuing to make, great impact on the services available for older Oklahomans. Thanks to this effort, older people of our state have almost 300 foot soldiers working for their best interests,” said Lance Robertson, OKDHS Aging Services Division director.

The deadline to apply is Dec. 31, 2012. For more information or to apply, contact Leitner at (405) 752-1257 or ASD at (405) 521-2281.

 

Article supplied by Katherine McRae, OKDHS Aging Services.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 16, 2012

Good morning.  It's Friday!

On this date in 1907, Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory joined to become the 46th state, Oklahoma.

Social Security offices will be closing earlier due to restrictive funding and backlogs. 

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month.  CMSHHSgov posted this video to show how Medicare can help you quit smoking.  Only a few weeks are left for Medicare open enrollment.  If you live in the ASCOG area, call 1.800.658.1466 and ask for Teena or Heather.

Dr Ruth has some advice for the Alzheimer's caregiver.

A federal housing discrimination lawsuit was settled this week.  The suit alleged that Baltimore real estate developer HHHunt Corp failed to make housing complexes accessible to persons with disabilities.

Budget negotiations are expected to begin today between President Obama, House Speaker John Boehner and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.  The central focus will be on a remedy to avert the fiscal cliff.  Medicare is expected to be a "critical" issue.

Federal Reserve officials are concerned that the record-low interest rates will not be enough to lure Boomers into purchasing houses and other high-priced items.  Meanwhile, Boomers and Generation X'rs are seeking ways to help their aging parents downsize.

Just for fun: a privately funded, 6-foot tall monument was placed at the Oklahoma Capitol grounds listing the Ten Commandments with two spelling errors.

Enjoy your weekend.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 15, 2012

Happy Thursday.  How is everybody?

On this day in 1969, the Soviet submarine K-19 collided with the USS Gato.  K-19 was later the subject of the independent film K-19 the Widowmaker.

 

 

The Oklahoma Policy Institute is predicting a flat budget year for Oklahoma.  Meanwhile, Secretary of Finance Preston Doerflinger is seeing an "upward swing."

 

A September report from the National Council on Disability estimates that one in every ten children (nearly 10%) have parents with disabilities.

 

In a question of semantics, the Census Bureau revealed in a recent report the possibility that an additional 3.5 million people a living in poverty. 

 

The Federal Housing Authority could be looking for a bailout from the federal government according to a recent article in the Wall Street Journal.

 

Hurricane Sandy may cost insurers as much as $25 billion.

 

Members of Medicare plans with a rating below three stars will be asked to reconsider.

 

Florida A&M's Dr. Debora Oliveira provides tips to older adults and their caregivers on how to prevent falls.

 

 



ASCOG Aging Advocate November 14, 2012

Happy Wednesday! 

On this day in 1965, the Battle of la Drang began.  It was the first major battle of the Vietnam War that involved US Army "regulars."  The battle was memorialized in the movie We Were Soldiers.

Wyandotte Chief Bearskin, WWII hero and friend to Oklahoma seniors, died last week. 

The Oklahoma Insurance Department warns seniors about a new Medicare scam where people are calling seniors to tell them they need new Medicare ID cards.  A new report, published by the Wall Street Journal, shows how nearly 25 percent of nursing homes in 2009 were overcharging Medicare for skill services that were "up-coded."

Kaiser's Mary Agnes Carey writes about how compromise in Washington will likely lead to changes in Medicare and Medicaid, including raising the eligibility age. 

AARP's Patty Shea discusses what a adult children should do to prepare for the time they are unexpectedly caregivers of their parents.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 13, 2012

Happy Tuesday, everyone!  Did you miss me?

On this day in 1942, the Battle of Friday the 13th was fought, otherwise known as the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal.  Also on this date, in 1982, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C. 

A Silver Alert has been issued for Glen Knight, 63, who was last seen in Ardmore.

Ray McCarter spoke to 230 students at Emerson Elementary School in Duncan to discuss the importance of Veterans Day.  Students sang "God Bless the USA" to the veterans who visited them.

San Diego's largest hospice program is set to lose millions during a Medicare audit which is focusing on whether the hospice was too liberal in qualifying patients for Medicare.  If you believe you have been charged inappropriately on your Medicare bill, please call Teena or Heather at 1.800.658.1466.  Remember, Medicare open enrollment expires on December 7.

One of the many ideas Congress is considering to address the "fiscal cliff" is to raise the Medicare retirement age.  The Wall Street Journal published this graphic of the spending cuts and tax increases that make up the fiscal cliff.

The Wall Street Journal also published a new graphic describing the declining Alzheimer's brain.

AARP's Sally Abrahms discusses what caregivers need to know in dealing with grief, guilt and exhaustion.

Easter Seals Disability Services provides a list of several courtesies that should be extended to people with disabilities in this article on disability etiquette.

Here's an idea for a great holiday gift, become an Ombudsman volunteer.

Holiday Present Idea: Become an Ombudsman Volunteer!

The holiday season is here; what is a good present to give? You can become an advocate for persons in long-term care facilities (Ombudsman Volunteer). This is something the facility residents and you will cherish for a long time. ASCOG (Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments) will hold two training sessions for potential Ombudsman Volunteers on November 27 - 28 at the Red River Technology Center in Duncan and November 29 - 30 at the Pioneer Library in Blanchard from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The training is free.

Contact Ruben Sotelo or Vonn Saltzman, Ombudsman Supervisors, sote_ru@ascog.org or vonn_sa@ascog.org , 1-800-658-1466.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 9, 2012

Good morning!  It's Friday.

On this date in 1989, demolition began on the Berlin Wall as East Germans were allowed to cross over into West Germany, marking the beginning of the end of the Cold War.

 

 

OKDHS is set to help low income households with heating costs.

 

Sunday is Veterans Day. Veterans Day ceremonies are slated for area communities as the Marine Corps turns 237.  The VA is encouraging veterans to access benefits available to them.  ASCOG offices will be closed on Monday, November 12 for the Veterans Day holiday.

 

Waurika Lake water levels continue to drop. 

 

A silver alert was issued for a missing Owasso woman.

 

If you live in the ASCOG area please complete our Senior Needs Survey.

 

Stay safe this holiday season.  Here are some food safety tips for that Thanksgiving turkey.  Having diabetes can be difficult to manage during the holiday season, but the VA wishes to help.

 

Social security offices plan to shorten their hours in many cities around the country.

 

We are only a month away from the end of Medicare open enrollment.  If you have not already done so, please contact our office to schedule Medicare assistance.  Just ask for Teena or Heather at 1.800.658.1466. 

 

For assistance with finding a human services program, please call our senior hotline at 1.800.211.2116 or for any age group simply dial 211 from any phone in Oklahoma.

 

 



ASCOG Aging Advocate November 8, 2012

Happy Thursday!  How is everybody?

On this date in 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt unveiled the Civil Works Administration, creating millions of manual labor jobs for Americans.  Also on this date in 1942, Operation Torch began in French North Africa as British and American troops worked together to develop a new front during WWII.

Newly hired OKDHS Director Ed Lake shared his comments on the outcome of State Question 765.

ER physician Bruce Wapen, M.D. explains how to decide if you need to go to the emergency room or choose a different health care route.  The Administration on Aging published steps for managing type two diabetes.  A National Institute of Health study found that even leisure activity can add years to your life.

Over 45,000 Oklahoma children live with their grandparents according to the OK Policy number of the day for November 7.

The National Council on Aging shares their thoughts on what the fiscal cliff will mean for US aging programs.  The Center on Budget provided their top ten facts about Social Security.

AARPs Jane Quinn discusses how couples can plan for retirement together.

Just for fun, here's a cartoon from Kaiser Health News.

Veterans Day is Sunday.  ASCOG offices will be closed on Monday, November 12.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 7, 2012

Happy Wednesday, or as we like to call it, "the day the election ads finally stop."

President Obama was reelected yesterday to four more years.  Meanwhile, Congress maintained with Republicans in majority in the House and Democrats in control of the Senate.  After billions of dollars spent in campaigns across the nation, status quo prevailed.

Now we look on to sequestration.

On this date in 1908 Robert Leroy Parker and Harry Alonzo Longabaugh were reportedly killed in San Vincente, Bolivia.  They were better known as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. (Pictured here with the Wild Bunch)

Medicare is trying to help seniors avoid poorly rated health care plans.

Treasurer Ken Miller shares many positive signs in Oklahoma's economy.

Yesterday, Stephens County overwhelmingly passed a new sales tax to support volunteer fire departments and senior nutrition sites.

Rosie Lewis cast her first ballot, yesterday.  She is 99.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 6, 2012

Happy Tuesday!  Get out and vote!  It's election day.

On this day in 1972 Meet the Press made its television debut.  Also on this date, Memphis became the first major city to join the Tennessee Valley Authority, the largest regional economic development agency in America.  The TVA Act was signed into law by Pres. Franklin D Roosevelt in 1933.

Hurricane Sandy is still proving a challenge, especially for seniors living in its path.

A study shows that chocolate may be responsible for higher intelligence.  In related news, November is National Diabetes Month.  Medicare.gov has information on how Medicare covers diabetes. 

Alison Biggar writes about her days as an Alzheimer's caregiver.

AARP's Jean Chatztky helps you decide if it's better to rent or buy a home after retirement.

Just for fun, ever seen old movies put to the music of the 70's?  Watch this video titled "Rita Hayworth is Staying Alive."

Effective March 1, 2013 all federal benefits payments must be made electronically.  Learn how you can switch now.

Medicare has a program to help make seniors more comfortable in their last days of life.  Read more about Medicare's hospice coverage in this blog.  Health coverage is dwindling for new retirees.

This Graceful Aging video presents the fight for dignity faced by aging veterans.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 5, 2012

Happy Monday!  Get out and vote!

On this date in 1972 Susan B. Anthony voted for the first time.  She was fined $100.  This is also the birthday of Vivien Leigh (1913-1967).

Can sitting up straight keep you from getting depressed?  A study from San Fransisco State University seems to say it does.

The cost of long term care continues to rise.

If your electricity goes out and you have to use a generator please make sure you keep it outside, and watch for symptoms of CO poisoning.

The vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff expressed his gratitude for those that are caregivers of veterans.

Donating to the Red Cross to help storm victims is as easy as sending a text message.  Just text REDCROSS to 90999 and a $10 contribution will be charged to your phone bill.  When giving to victims of Hurricane Sandy beware of disaster recovery scams.

In case you missed it, there was a Saturday edition of the Aging Advocate.

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 3, 2012

Welcome to this special Saturday edition of the Aging Advocate.  Hope you are enjoying your weekend.

On this date in 1913 the US introduced an income tax.  Also on this date in 1957 the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 2.  On board was Laika, the first animal in space.  The space dog was also the first animal to die in space.

Medicare is increasing the payments for primary care physicians.

A local newspaper publisher remembers his best friend, Oliver.

The Apache Senior Center served its first meals as an independent site on November 1. 

The November Sr. Summit will be held Wednesday, November 14 at 11:30 at Southwestern Hospital in Lawton.  The speaker will be Donna Aday from the Genlife Institute.  Genlife is a no cost whole body donation program that helps alleviate the financial concerns donors and their families.  More information can be found at their website:  www.GenLifeInstitute.com.

An Alzheimer's Association Town Hall Meeting will be held on Friday, November 9 in Duncan, and the Memory Screening at Ten Oaks on Tuesday, November 13.

Set your clocks back tonight and please get out and vote!

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 2, 2012

It's Friday!  What are you doing this weekend?

On this date in 1920 the first commercial radio broadcast was conducted by KDKA of Pittsburgh, PA.  The broadcast announced the results of the 1920 presidential election.  Also on this date, Charles Van Doren testified before Congress that he was given the answers in advance during his stint as champion of the TV game show Twenty One.

Smartaboutmoney.org provides financial tips to help you survive the tough economy.

Daylight savings ends November 4.  That is the time to set the clocks back one hour.  It's also a reminder to check your smoke detectors.

Michelle Seitzer encourages us to remember what the global elderly population has to offer.

The AFA provides this information about the warning signs of Alzheimer's.

Tired of the normal dinner and a movie? Check out this easy to plan dates for grandparents.

Patricia Barry clears up the confusion about the $247 Medicare premium myth.  Test your knowledge of Medicaid by taking this Medicaid quiz.

You are never too old to become an entrepreneur according to this blog by Rick Haglund.  Also, if you are a Boomer you are not too young to start preparing for fall prevention.

November is National Family Caregivers Month.  How will you be celebrating?

ASCOG Aging Advocate November 1, 2012

Happy Thursday!  And how is everybody?

Ansel Adams took this picture of a moonrise over Hernandez, NM on this date in 1941.  The picture is one of the most famous in the history of photography.

The American Red Cross is asking for assistance as they work to provide relief to victims of Hurricane Sandy.  More than 9,000 people spent Tuesday night in 171 Red Cross shelters in 13 states.

Personal finance columnist Jeff Brown give advice on reverse mortgages.

Researchers at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia provide insight into why seniors fall.

Just for fun, watch this video of these Virginia seniors performing the Monster Mash.

A settlement has been reached to end Medicare's "Improvement Standard."  For more information about Medicare changes, call ASCOG's Heather Sladek at 1.800.658.1466.

Kathleen Christensen discusses the need to expand workplace flexibility conversations as seniors continue to work later in life and as adult children of seniors need to be able to care for their parents.

Aging in place means dealing with new technology, social networking and how wills will have to be modified accordingly.

PharmaTimes issues a cost warning on US medications that focus on aging issues.