Lord of the COGs: The Two Aging Agencies

The holiday season creeps ever closer, and with it the new year! There will be no column next week unless I queue one up, so don't hold your breath. (I know that you all will be eagerly refreshing this page the day after Christmas. Eagerly.)

From the Time's Money Magazine, we have a write-in question from a lady trying to decide if survivor's benefits are something she should apply for immediately.

In Medicare news, there's been a new study published seeking to determine why Medicare spending has gone down, or rather, how much of that decline can even BE explained. I know how much everyone loves dense academic articles, right? Right!! (psst: over here for an explanation of some of the most important points)

The other, slightly less awesome AAA - you know, the driving one - has released a study about how most older people are in favor of license renewal, speed cameras, and cell-phone laws. (I confess that one of my reasons for including this is so that I could say 'the other, less cool AAA.') Road safety culture, am I right? ...Apparently the very eldest folks were much more in favor of red light cameras than their younger peers, though. Hmmmmmmmmmmm.

Lord of the COGs: Fellowship of the I&As

Happy almost-holidays from ASCOG! It's turning out to be a busy month for us, and, with any luck, a busy month for you, too.

For those of you with a creative side, there's the 40th Annual Conference on Aging poetry contest: always very popular. We even have booklets of the poems from our COG, which you can come by and read if you like! Be famous. ...Semi-famous. ...Sort-of famous. ...You get an awards luncheon on May 5th, and that's pretty cool?

More importantly, people will actually read and think about your poems, and if you're a poet, I know that's basically your favorite thing ever. You can't fool me.

Here's another worthwhile activity for families of any age: have a child in an Oklahoma emergency shelter over for Christmas. It's such a self-evident good idea that I don't even have anything to say about it! I'm not sure if I'd inflict my family's Christmases on an unsuspecting kid, but if your house isn't a disaster area, what could possibly be a more awesome gift to someone?


Ken's Quiz

On this date, in 2012, this nation became the tenth “space power” when it successfully launched a satellite into orbit using its own launch vehicles.  What is the name of this country?

December 5th, 2014 - Return of the I&As

Well, the Aspire Home Health seminar that I mentioned last week went swimmingly! Much information. Such wow. So brochure. I won't tell you all about the things you missed if you didn't go, because that would be cruel. I will, however, mention that living wills, advance directives, DNRs, and memory care facilities may have been discussed.

I hope you all came to Vonn and made sure that your Medicare was in order, because the Extravaganza is closed as of tomorrow. Usually I would tell you not to panic, and I am telling you not to panic. I'm just also letting you know that she'll be at the Lawton Public Library today.

More importantly, we got mentioned in the newspaper! Several times!!! They weren't complaints!!!!! I can't take much credit for how cool the Duncan North Senior Center is, but I'd really like to. I had no idea they had dulcimer lessons! Dulcimer lessons. I want dulcimer lessons... Ahem. Apparently they have Christmas stuff for sale, too! The Banner is on a roll: there's also an article there about the Duncan Community Residence. That's a cool place. Do you know how much assisted living places cost in comparison? I don't even want to tell you.

I can't really take credit for the article from Duncan... the magazine about Ken Jones, my boss and fellow blog contributor, either. I mean, I could try, but he reads this, so: maybe not a good idea.

Today's entry for 'newspaper articles about the obvious' is the Boston Globe's incisive observation that seniors may not really want roommates in nursing home situations. I would never have thought so! ...No, that's unkind of me, it really IS something that people need to have brought to their attention, ideally so that they can do something about it.

So I have a confession: I'm terrible at trivia questions. Mine are basically terrible, so I am instituting the weekly Ken Quiz, contributed by Ken Jones or whoever else I can corner to help me.

Donned with the nickname, “Dandy,” this American football quarterback and sports commentator went on to become an actor in the movie Police Story.  He was known as the comic foil for fellow commentator, Howard Cosell.  He died, on this date, in 2010.  What was his name?

Aging Advocate: Nov. 20, 2014 - 'The Aging Agency Strikes Back'

Happy news! You will have the opportunity to meet me, Information and Assistance Specialist Jordan, live and in person at Aspire Home Health Care's seminar tomorrow at the Great Plains Technology Center in Lawton. (If you're not familiar with Lawton, that's here.) I'll have brochures! Maybe even... pens.

Reminder: Medicare Extravaganza!! is still ongoing!

The Times has an article about some interesting new studies regarding long-term health care insurance. I'm sure many of you already know what some of those studies say, though:  long-term health care insurance is pricy and only getting pricier, and some companies just plain aren't selling it anymore! Most people are choosing to get rid of their money and go on Medicaid instead. (Medicare, in case you didn't know, does not pay for long-term health care! Let Vonn tell you more about Medicare and its tricky little ways.)

Can't ever remember which vegetables are in season when? Interested in sourcing extra-fresh produce in Stephens County? Not sure why everyone says you should eat all that green stuff anyway? Veg Up has what you need! (Pumpkin Spice Latte Waffles. Pumpkin spiiiiiiiiiiice...)

Computer scammers have found a new way to squeeze money out of you, according to the FBI. That's not really news, of course, but what they're doing this time is tricking you into thinking that they are Apple or Microsoft employees, and talking to you on the phone. What perfidies will they think of next!


Note: I'm not endorsing or condemning Aspire Home Health Care, et cetera. I'm there for informational purposes only.

Aging Advocate: Nov. 14, 2014 - 'A New Hope'

Hello, Aging Advocate readers! I'm Jordan, ASCOG's new Information and Assistance specialist. I've been here at ASCOG for about two months so far, and they have begun letting me out in public. I come to you fresh from Cameron University, generously seasoned with librarianship and the burning desire to be helpful. There is the strong possibility that you will see much more of me on this blog in the weeks to come, so be prepared!

First and most important is our weekly trivia question. Today in 1881 began the trial of which presidential assassin?

President Garfield, 20th President of the United States.

Bonus round: Which composer made a musical about presidential assassinations? (Yes, really!)

In this week's regular news:

There is the ongoing Medicare Extravaganza!!! Less enthusiastic souls like to call this 'Medicare Open Enrollment,' and it is an exciting time for everyone! This is THE time to change your Medicare coverage if you're so inclined. You never know what new innovations Medicare has done to the other plans, so make an appointment with our Medicare Specialist Vonn Saltzman and find out!

(No, we're not going to stop reminding you about Open Enrollment. Not until December 6th, anyway, at which point it will be too late.)

There is a public forum for feedback about Medicare's coverage of speech-generating devices, since those have come such a long way since 2001. If you use these, head over and give Medicare some suggestions.

Good news for long-term smokers! Medicare has proposed to cover your lung cancer screenings. The proposal itself is still open for comments, so make sure to go tell them if they need to fix anything.

A reminder that the time for flu shots is yesterday! If you've put it off like I have, go ahead and get 'er done. It's not as bad as you remember. If you read this blog, you've got a lot of contact with the elderly (and/or are elderly yourself!), so herd immunity is a big deal. Concerned about vaccination and autism? That research study was fraudulent, and the doctor has been stripped of his credentials. Whoops.

In better news, there's been a study confirming that we are doing MUCH more to help elderly people stay in their homes than in 2008. If you're concerned about you, a loved one, or a client having to move to some form of assisted living, give us a call and we'll see what we can do! (By 'we,' I mean 'me.' That's me. I do that.)

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, so consider it your reminder to get screened if you need it. If you're 65 or older, it's definitely worth checking out, because half of everyone with pre-diabetes is elderly, and 40% of people with full-fledged diabetes are over 65. If you have a family history of diabetes and blood sugar shenaningans, like I do, you may as well go ahead and get screened as well. Even if you'd rather not, you know the drill: consider exercise, put more green vegetables in your mouth, et cetera. (You may also want to chew and swallow the green vegetables.)

November is a multi-purpose month, because it's also the Long-Term Care Awareness month. This is, unfortunately, one of those expenses Medicare does not generally see fit to cover. Check out the link for more information about how to find and finance this kind of personal care.

See you next week!

ASCOG Advocate: November 7, 2014

View of Washington, D.C. looking over the Potomac
from Arlington National Cemetery.

On this date in 1983, the "Resistance Conspiracy" bombed this Washington, D.C. landmark.  What was the name of the landmark?

Aging in Place building design is coming to Central Oklahoma.

Oklahoma DHS was awarded $225,000 to establish "no wrong door" system.

A Lawton man in a motorized wheelchair was robbed at gunpoint yesterday.

Even if you are satisfied with your current Medicare plan, you should review your plan annually.

Three commonly recommended vaccines that are covered by Medicare.

How to plug holes in your Medicare coverage.

As the population lives longer, falls are more likely a concern.

Time's guide to fixing Social Security.

Caregiver medical leave from work often goes unpaid in America.

Video:  How to see pain when dementia blocks communication.

The Administration on Community Living launched the Elder Justice and Adult Protective Services Office, seeking to make changes on the elder justice front amidst limited funding.

November is National Family Caregivers Month.

ASCOG board member Eddie Whitworth has been named 2014 Mayor of the Year for small towns.  ASCOG board member and executive committee member Gene Brown has been named Mayor of the Year for larger communities.

ASCOG Advocate: October 31, 2014

On this date, in 1941, after 14 years of work this granite sculpture was completed in South Dakota by artists Gutzon and Lincoln Borglum.  What is the name (and location) of the sculpture?

Myth Buster:  Milk does a body good?  Not so much.

ALS patients could lose Medicare coverage for devices that assist with communication.

Two Florida nursing home workers were arrested on video camera evidence.

RAND Corp. estimates the cost of family caregiving to be $522 billion per year.

N4A answers the question, "What do AAAs do?"

Video:  "The Power of Oldness," the campaign against age discrimination.

Kum & Go settles lawsuit; agrees to make its stores more accessible to persons with disabilities.

Let grandmas teach you a thing or two about Facebook.

The Living Choice Project seeks to move nursing home residents back into community living.

Lawton's Center for Creative Living will host Community Thanksgiving Feast 2014.

The Living Choice Project

If you or a loved one are interested in moving out of a nursing home and rejoining the community, you might qualify through the Living Choice Project. The mission of the Living Choice Project is to make community living possible for Oklahomans of all ages, disabilities or long-term illness.  

 

The Living Choice Project will empower individuals to choose and control the services and supports they need to live and be a part of the community. Contact ombudsman supervisor Ruben Sotelo at ASCOG (Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments) for detailed information: sote_ru@ascog.org, direct: 580-736-7975 or toll free: 1-800-658-1466.

Lawton's Center for Creative Living To Host Community Thanksgiving Feast 2014

The Center for Creative Living, 3501 Elsie Hamm Dr., will be providing a Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Friday, November 21^st from 12pm to 3:30pm (or until supplies last). 

The meal is free and everyone is welcome.

Donors for this event are:  Cedar Crest, Faith Hospice, Center for Creative Living, House of Bread Ministries, Tal & Lorene Miller, plus many more.

Please contact Lorene Miller at the Center for Creative Living with any questions or donations, 580-248-0471.

ASCOG Advocate: October 24, 2014

On this date, in 2002, police arrested John Allen Muhammad and Lee Boyd Malvo, ending the sniper attacks in this U.S. city.  What is the name of the city?

Medicare open enrollment is an opportunity for scam artists.

Seven things to review during Medicare open enrollment.  The five biggest mistakes Boomers make when enrolling in Medicare.

The Government Accountability Office is conducting an audit of Medicare Advantage spending.

Social Security recipients will receive another small cost of living increase in 2015.

Sometimes, it's not dementia.

Attorney General Scott Pruitt warns of jury duty scams.

Nursing homes are using too many antibiotics.

Medicine Park's Billie Smith celebrated her 100th birthday.

The Administration for Community Living is reorganizing.


For more information on Medicare Open Enrollment, contact Vonn Saltzman.

ASCOG Advocate: October 17, 2014

On this date, in 1091, disaster struck London, leveling the London Bridge, some churches and 600 houses.  What was the nature of the disaster that hit London?

The Washington Post released this Guide for Medicare Open Enrollment.  Next Avenue addressed five myths about Medicare.  NYT: Beware of shifting options for Medicare plans.  Medicare versus Medigap, what's the difference.

The federal government continues to find deficiencies with some Medicare health plans due to inadequate justification for denial of services. 

The White House Conference on Aging website has been launched.

Next Avenue's timely advice on the new Social Security statements.

How to care for your aging parents from a distance.

Glen Campbell recorded his "final song" in wake of Alzheimer's diagnosis.

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

For more information about Medicare, contact Vonn Saltzman at 580.736.7973.

ASCOG Advocate: October 10, 2014

On this date, in 1973, this vice-president of the United States resigned after being charged with income tax evasion.  What was his name?

Medicare open enrollment begins October 15.  Contact Vonn at 580.736.7973 for more information.  Medicare Part B premiums will remain unchanged in 2015.

It's time to get your flu shots.

Life expectancy in the United States has reached an all-time high.

CMS plans to take action to improve the five-star rating system for long-term care facilities.

Pioneer businesswoman icon, Edna Hennessee was memorialized with a highway dedication near Lawton.

ASCOG Hosts Free Medicare Events During Open Enrollment

 The Association of Oklahoma South Central Governments (ASCOG) is hosting free county-wide events to help seniors prepare for the Medicare Open Enrollment period, October 15-December 7.  During Open Enrollment, Medicare-eligible consumers can sign up for coverage under a Medicare Advantage plan or Part D prescription drug plans, as well as change their options for the coming year.  At this year’s events, general information will be offered about Medicare, and Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) counselors will be available to assist with signing up for Part D plans, reviewing comparisons of coverage, checking eligibility for “Extra Help” and signing up for a personal account on MyMedicare.gov. The current income guidelines for “Extra Help” are $1,459/month or less for singles, or $1,966/month or less for married couples.

Medicare events are scheduled at: Duncan Red River Technology Center, Oct. 17 and 20, 9 am-2p.m.;  Waurika City Hall Depot, Oct. 22, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Walters Library, Oct 23, 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.; Altus Southwest Oklahoma Community Action, Oct. 28, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Temple City Hall/Nutrition Site, 9:00 a.m.-2 p.m.;  Medicine Park Wichita Mountains Senior Center, Nov. 3, 9:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.; Lawton Public Library, Nov. 4, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.; Ryan Drug Store, Nov. 6, 9:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.; Lawton Rose Hill Church Health Fair, Nov. 8, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.; Lindsay Library, Nov. 12, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.; Frederick Community Action, Nov. 18-19, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.; Pauls Valley Library, Dec. 2 , 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.; Medicine Park Wichita Mountains Senior Center, Dec. 4, 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

For other event dates and locations, or to schedule a private appointment, contact Vonn Saltzman, Medicare Assistance Specialist, (580)736-7973 or (800)658-1466 at ASCOG.

ASCOG Advocate: October 3, 2014

On this date, in 1955, Annette Funicello and gang starred in the first episode of this popular children's television show on ABC.  What was the name of the show?

Oklahoma's State Long-term Care Ombudsman, Esther Houser, retired on Tuesday.

The U.S. Census Bureau released its annual report on income and poverty.

Laser therapy is the preferred treatment for varicose veins.

Medicare Open Enrollment Begins October 15 thru December 7

Get the most out of your Medicare.  Each year, Medicare plans can make changes to their coverage, benefits, and costs.  Every fall, all people with Medicare should review their current health and prescription drug coverage.  Do you, or someone you know, need extra help paying for Medicare prescription drug coverage?  If a person has limited income and resources, they may qualify for “extra help.”

Take the time to gather all the things you’ll need to make a decision about your health and prescription drug coverage.  You’ll need a list of medications you take, a list of providers you want to use, like your doctor or pharmacy, any notice from your plan (called the Annual Notice of Change), Social Security, or Medicare about changes to your costs and coverage for next year, and information about other plans in your area for next year.

You may then visit www.medicare.gov website to compare all of your options, search for plans in your area, and check to see if you qualify for “extra help.”  If you don’t have internet access, open enrollment events have been scheduled in Comanche, Cotton, Garvin, Jackson, Jefferson, Tillman and Stephens counties.  Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) Counselors will be at these events to assist with plan comparisons, enrollment, and answer questions regarding Medicare.  Or, you can schedule a private meeting with a MAP Counselor. 

For enrollment event dates and locations, or to schedule a private appointment, contact Vonn Saltzman, Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments (ASCOG), Medicare Assistance Specialist, (580)736-7973 or (800)658-1466.

ASCOG Advocate: September 26, 2014

 

Delta, MaddieLuke and ASCOG staff at the
2014 SWOK Senior Games at the
Simmons Center in Duncan

Medicare:  Six things to know about fall open enrollment.

A Medicare scam that just kept rolling.

The fiscal reality of being a caregiver.

Lawton seniors learned about disaster preparation at the Center for Creative Living.

Minorities are more likely to end up in a long-term care institution.  October is Residents' Rights Month.

Likelihood of later dementia diagnosis higher for those worried about memory loss.

Kathy Greenlee:  Elder abuse...international crisis.

Over 100 seniors were pre-registered for the 20th Annual Southwest Oklahoma Senior Games.

September 23 was National Falls Prevention Awareness Day.

Victoria De La Rosa of Duncan enjoys her time at the
2014 SWOK Senior Games

Free Advocacy Training Offered by ASCOG

ASCOG (Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments) will offer free advocacy training for any person over 18 years old who would like to become an ombudsman volunteer and assist persons with long-term care issues or concerns. The training will be on Wed., Oct. 1 and Thur., Oct. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Great Plains Technology Center, room 623B, 4500 Lee Blvd, Lawton. Contact ombudsman supervisor Ruben Sotelo at ASCOG for detailed information: sote_ru@ascog.org, direct: 580-736-7975 or toll free: 1-800-658-1466..

Ombudsman Supervisor Job Announcement Extended to September 30

ASCOG has an opening for a Long-Term Care Ombudsman Supervisor. Duties include resolving complaints and advocating for residents of long-term care facilities, recruiting, training and supervising volunteers, assistance to individuals regarding care choice, and technical assistance to facility staff.  Documentation and extensive local travel is required. 

 Bachelor’s degree and related experience working with aging individuals required.

Minimum salary is $27,739.

Send resumes to ASCOG Attn:  Nancy English, P O Box 1647, Duncan, OK  73534.  Resumes accepted through Friday, September 30, 2014.  ASCOG is an equal opportunity employer.

ASCOG Advocate: September 12, 2014

Jack Kilby's integrated circuit

On this date, in 1958, Jack Kilby invented the integrated circuit and would go on to win the Nobel Prize in Physics for his invention.  Where was Kilby employed when he invented the integrated circuit?

One of Medicare's architects died from melanoma.

Julianne Moore stars in "Still Alice," a film depicting a college professor who is diagnosed with Early-onset Familial Alzheimer's.

U.S. Senator Bob Casey plans to introduce legislation that will establish a caregiver corp to help fill the cap in caregiver availability.

Benzodiazepines linked to higher risk of Alzheimer's.

There will be no ASCOG Advocate on September 19 to give staff an opportunity to attend the 2014 Home and Community Based Services Conference.

ASCOG Advocate: September 5, 2014

Churchill, Truman and Stalin at
the Potsdam Conference.

Igor Gouzenko, was a cipher clerk at a Soviet Embassy.  After defecting, he exposed Soviet espionage in North America, marking the beginning of the Cold War on this date in 1945.  What was the name of the country to which he defected?

Medicare and Medicaid are projected to spend billions less than expected over the next ten years according to a new CBO report.

Illinois resident is building her own house despite disabilities.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau published "Protecting Residents From Financial Exploitation."

September 7 is Grandparents Day.

ASCOG Advocate: August 29, 2014

She won three Academy Awards, two Emmy Awards, four Golden Globes and a Tony for best actress.  You probably know her as Ilsa Lund in Casablanca.  She was born in Stockholm Sweden on this date in 1915.  What was her name?

Ten Oklahoma hospitals were targeted by Chinese hackers who stole debit and credit card information as well as social security numbers; here's what to do if your information was stolen.

A growing number of retirees have Social Security checks garnished by the federal government to repay student loans.

People with Down Syndrome are pioneers in Alzheimer's research.

A Michigan caregiver fleeced a retiree out of over $500,000.

The old-fashioned house call is making a comeback.

Alan Barth (62) of Lawton plans a 50-mile trek as a show of strength against muscular dystrophy.

September is Hunger Action Month.

Medicare pays for many preventative services, including vaccines.

Sam and Jane Ard continue to support their community after decades of service in Lawton.

ASCOG Advocate: August 22, 2014

On this date, in 1989, this Major League Baseball pitcher became the first to record 5000 strike outs when he fanned Rickey "The Man of Steel" Henderson.  What is his name?

A 42-year-old Salinas caregiver, who plead no-contest to severe neglect likely to cause great bodily injury or death and who allegedly received over $30,000 in unemployment while being paid as a caregiver, was sentenced to probation.  A man in Chicago, caught on camera beating an Alzheimer's patient, was sentenced to two years in prison.

A new study shows that more than half of the elderly patients who have visited an emergency room were malnourished or at risk of malnutrition.

Persons with vitamin D deficiency are twice as likely to develop dementia.

NCOA: The National Council on Aging released it's 2015 Medicare Part D costs and coverage gap information graphic. Vaccines:  What Medicare pays for fact sheet.

Fifteen percent of Americans 65 and older are living in poverty.

It's time to start preparing for the 2014 flu season.

A tough conversation, dealing with driving and dementia.  Based on an assumption of risk, California court ruled that a caregiver cannot sue Alzheimer's patient under her care.

United Way Follies kicked off the 2014 United Way of Stephens County campaign.

ASCOG Advocate: August 15, 2014

On this date, in 1945, Japan surrendered to the allies to end hostilities during World War II.  However, the "state of war" did not end between Japan and the allies until a treaty was signed in 1952.  The treaty was named after a western American city.  What was the name of the 1952 peace treaty?

In an attempt to combat fraud and protect seniors' social security numbers, an Illinois senator is advocating for changes to Medicare cards.

Depression can hide behind the "most happiest of facades."

Frequently asked questions regarding Medicare and the Marketplace.

New technologies to help senior age in place were revealed at the recent O4A conference in Dallas.

Oklahomans can receive free dental, medical and vision care this weekend in Oklahoma City.

The United Way of Stephens County Follies will take place tonight, helping to raise funds for 13 local programs, including two senior centers.

ASCOG Advocate: August 8, 2014

On this date, in 1908, Wilbur Wright made his first public flight at a famous international race course.  In what country did his flight take place?

QuickTrip paid over $1.5 million to customers with disabilities for ADA violations.

Medicare's Part D program has saved seniors over $11.5 billion since 2010.  To learn more about Medicare Part D talk contact Vonn Saltzman at 580.736.7973.

DHHS Inspector General uncovered a $32 million Medicare Part D fraud schemes involving HIV medication and 1,578 Medicare beneficiaries.

A California judge ruled in favor of the state's choice to transfer dual eligible citizens in Medicaid managed care.

Slow walking linked to higher risk of dementia.

Men who climb about three to five floors of stairs per day are 29 percent less like to have a stroke.

Even after depletion of the Social Security reserves, most Millennials and Gen Xers can still expect a successful retirement.

A Duncan resident potential victim of a telephone fraud scam.

A Lawton woman is finding it hard to sleep at night after a strange man tried to steal her air conditioner.

ASCOG Advocate: August 1, 2014

The castle and piers on Brownsea Island.

On this date, in 1907, the first scout camp began on Brownsea Island.  The camp marked the beginning of the "Scouting Movement."  Where is Brownsea Island located?

Medicare's hospital insurance program projected to remain solvent until 2030, Social Security Disability till 2016.

The U.S. Justice Department proposed new rules requiring movie theaters to expand access to persons with hearing or vision impairment.

The U.S. Surgeon General warns skin cancer is a "major public health problem."

Mae Braxton, 83, was found guilty of defrauding Social Security out of more than $80,000, sentenced to probation.

Telemarketing scams against the elderly continue to be the fastest growing consumer complaint.

Family caregivers:  Long-term care planning is about more than just finances.

Dementia patients are fifty percent more likely to need pacemakers, according to a new study.  Depression and dementia are linked, but researchers still ponder cause and effect.

Chickasha resident Burley Givens, 91, received a presidential thank you letter for his role in World War II.

Preserving history in Chickasha, remembering Lincoln School.

Video: Richard Hendrickson, 101, was honored for over 80 years of service as a weather observer.

AAA OMBUDSMAN SUPERVISOR I

        ASCOG has an opening for a Long-Term Care Ombudsman Supervisor. Duties include resolving complaints and advocating for residents of long-term care facilities, recruiting, training and supervising volunteers, assistance to individuals regarding care choice, and technical assistance to facility staff.  Documentation and extensive local travel is required. 

Bachelor’s degree and related experience working with aging individuals required.

Minimum salary is $27,739.

Send resumes to ASCOG Attn:  Nancy English, P O Box 1647, Duncan, OK  73534.  Resumes accepted through Friday, August 15, 2014.  ASCOG is an equal opportunity employer.

AAA INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE SPECIALIST

      The Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments is accepting resumes for an Area Agency on Aging Information and Assistance Specialist position in Duncan.  Minimum of 36 hours per week. Will work under the general supervision of the Deputy Director of Supportive Services.  Job duties include: Obtains data, answers the telephone and responds to requests for information.  Screens clients and makes appropriate service referrals.  Collects, maintains and updates resource materials and files.  Maintains contact with the public, including resource agencies and aging programs.  Develops handouts, brochures and other marketing materials.  Compiles and submits reports.  Provides literatures to community groups and aging programs.  Coordinates with news media to publicize aging programs.  Provides informational presentations to groups.  Works with volunteers.  Informs ASCOG staff regarding gaps in services. 

     Applicants must complete CIRS/A certification upon employment and must complete additional training.  Bachelor’s degree required with preference to marketing, public relations and journalism degrees.  Must have a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and be proficient in the operation of a computer using Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and Power Point.  Salary range from $20,801 to $27,739.
 
      Send resume to:  ASCOG, Attention Nancy English P. O. Box 1647, Duncan, OK. 73534. Resumes accepted through Friday, August 1.  ASCOG is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ASCOG Advocate: July 25, 2014

On this date, in 1976, the Viking 1 space probe took the famous photograph that  started an international stir and stoked pop-culture beliefs in life on mars. What was the popular name given to the photo?

What Boomers should know in seeking help for Social Security retirement strategies for couples. What Boomers should know about Social Security and employment. Are you afraid your ex can cut you off from Social Security benefits?

Nordstrom ads continue to feature models with disabilities.

Epworth Village files bankruptcy following $15.1 million judgment.

In the absence of human caregivers, the future turns to robots.

Peaceful Family Solutions, a faith-based, nonprofit organization, provides services to "grandfamilies."

"The most important part about hiring a caregiver is knowing what you need."

Denver Broncos owner steps down in wake of Alzheimer's.

Community Expansion for Nutrition Assistance (CENA) Applications Available for Senior Centers

The Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments (ASCOG) is accepting applications from eligible senior citizen centers for the Community Expansion of Nutrition Assistance (CENA).

CENA funds may be used for food, utilities, insurance, equipment, repairs and maintenance or other approved functions. This year, a special priority will be given to food and utilities.

CENA currently provides assistance to 43 independent senior centers in ASCOG’s eight-county area which includes Caddo, Comanche, Cotton, Grady, Jefferson, McClain, Stephens and Tillman counties.

To apply for a CENA grant, call Kaylee Price, ASCOG AAA Planner, at 580-736-7978.  Applications are also available online. CENA applications are due by August 1^st.

ASCOG Advocate: July 18, 2014

On this date, in 1942, the Messerschmitt Me 262 took off on its first test flight for Nazi Germany.  It was the first of its kind.

What made the plane the first of its kind?

The Congressional Business Office projects a better future for Medicare. A fanny-pack mix-up revealed a multi-million dollar Medicare drug scam.

Sleep apnea and other sleep disorders were linked to Alzheimer's according to a new study.  A new brain protein was also linked to Alzheimer's.  Small changes work best for the prevention of dementia.

The Town of Ryan issued a boil order for the community water supply.

Free dental and vision services will be offered at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds.

One Lawton nonagenarian is working hard to keep her body feeling young.

Local veterans were honored in Duncan's first VFW Veterans Appreciation Day.  The Duncan Senior Citizens Center celebrated 58 years of service.

The 2015 ASCOG Community Expansion for Nutrition Assistance (CENA) application is available online.

ASCOG Advocate: July 11, 2014

On this date, in 1914, Babe Ruth made his debut in Major League Baseball. 

What was the name of his inaugural team?

The Administration for Community Living announced a new webinar series on Alzheimer's and related diseases.

Sometimes it's difficult to know when to take out Social Security widows benefits.

Scientists are getting closer to a blood test for Alzheimer's with hopes to detect the disease in earlier stages.

One Kenyan pastor with disabilities breaks down barriers in a country that stigmatizes people with physical impairments.

Government unveils online resource to tackle elder abuse.

CARE CEO acknowledges high rate of centenarians in Chickasha.