ASCOG Advocate: December 20, 2013

An F-117 Nighthawk in 2002.

On this date, in 1989, the United States sent troops to this country.  It would be the first combat to include the use of stealth aircraft.

What was the name of the country invaded by the U.S.?

A medical panel recommends a higher treatment threshold for prescribing medication to seniors with high blood pressure.

Dementia is more likely in older women with heart disease.

NIH addresses reasons people with intellectual disabilities often die years earlier.

NCOA:  7 Top Trends Affecting Benefits Programs for 2013.

An HHS Inspector General report shows nursing home quality is a top priority.

Seven myths about the flu vaccine.

ASCOG Advocate: December 19, 2013

A 1989 replica of the Susan Constant.

On this date, in 1606, the Susan Constant, the Godspeed and the Discovery set sail from England.  

What was the name of their destination?

Aging in place may depend as much on technology as it does on caregivers.

Diabetes strongly linked to dementia in two minority groups.

Aging actors play aging boxers in "Grudge Match."

The FDA questions the success of antibacterial soaps in preventing infection.

ASCOG area caregivers asked to complete a survey.

ASCOG Advocate: December 18, 2013

George Halas, founder of the Bears, shakes hands
with NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle.

On this date, in 1932, the Chicago Bears defeated the Portsmouth Spartans in the first ever NFL Championship Game.  Two years later the Spartans moved from Portsmouth Ohio and took on a new name.

What was the new name given to the Spartans?

Medicare identifies the best and worst facilities for hip and knee replacement.

A new study shows that fears about Medicare doctor shortages are "largely overstated."

"Caregiving is among the pressing issues for people with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia."

Alcohol abuse and depression are commonly mistaken for dementia.

ASCOG Advocate: December 17, 2013

The Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789.

On this date, in 1777, France formally recognized the United States.  But they were not the first country to do so?

What is the name of the first country to recognize the United States of America?

HHS announces $50 million plan to expand community mental health services.

Wes Bledsoe continues his sanctimonious, baseless and hypocritical  rant against those advocating for safer nursing homes.

Before giving up your car keys, consider having your driving skills tested.

Ten early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's.

Social Security, Medicare and being politically correct.

ASCOG Advocate: December 16, 2013

James Cameron, director and producer.

On this date, in 2009, this American movie was released internationally.  It grossed over $2 billion and is the highest grossing movie of all time.  

What is the name of the film?

As the one-year anniversary of the Newtown Massacre approaches, Congress considers new mental health legislation.

A German study ties irregular heartbeat to depression.

Opinion:  Capitalism, individual rights and Medicare.

ASCOG Advocate: December 13, 2013

The privateer in Buckland Abbey.

On this date, in 1577, this English privateer set sail from Plymouth, England, on his round-the-world voyage.

What was his name?

More than eight million Americans use long term care services.

The Michigan senate unanimously approved bills that would allow certain offenders to go to mental health courts instead of facing criminal charges.

Morphine appears to reduce the effects of clot breaking drugs in cardiac emergencies.

How to appeal a Medicare claim.

Doctors may face significant cuts in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements.  

Got an hour?  Give it back to seniors.

The National Council on Aging provides an economic aid for seniors.

ASCOG Advocate: December 12, 2013

Official Flag

On this date, in 1963, this country gained its independence from the United Kingdom.  The country has been inhabited by humans since the Lower Paleolithic period.  It borders the Indian Ocean.  Its famous, snow-capped Mount Kirinyaga was mispronounced by the English leading to its current name, after the name of the country.

What is the name of this country?

Report:  Medicare beneficiaries have good access to doctors.

Better diabetes treatment has dramatically improved overall health of seniors who battle the disease.

People with a high-risk Alzheimer's gene can see changes in the brain in childhood.

As the U.S. prepares for the impact of the expected high-cost of treatment, Alzheimer's rates decline globally.

North Carolina makes plans to shift to regional Medicaid plans run by managed care companies.

Anxiety grows as Kansas shifts care for people with developmental disabilities to managed care.

ASCOG Advocate: December 11, 2013

Co-founder of A.A.

On this date, in 1934, this co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous took his last drink and entered treatment for the last time.

What was his name?

Medicare re-hospitalization rates fell as hospitals receive penalties.

Medicare preferred pharmacy plans have lower costs and the same or better quality as plans without preferred networks.

An Alabama advocacy group is fighting against what is considers to be exploitative practices against persons with disabilities.

Exercise lowers the risk of dementia and memory loss.

AARP:  The concept of assessing a family caregiver's needs is not well understood in many Medicaid HCBS programs.

United We Ride seeks to seeks to meet the transportation needs of all older Oklahomans and persons with disabilities.

ASCOG Advocate: December 10, 2013

A 1970 photo of the band.

On this date, in 1965, a band formerly known as the Warlock's played in their first concert under a new, legendary name.

What was the new name of the band?

In the last decade, 49 Russian diplomats, or their spouses, bilked Medicaid in New York City out of $1.5 million in benefits.

OK Policy provided a report summary on Oklahoma's Food Security Safety Net.

NASUAD released a new analysis on the federal sequester.

An Urban Institute report shows what they expect you will receive in return for all of the taxes you pay to the federal government.

In the last year, 37 states have increased spending on mental health programs.

Study shows that the federal government could save hundreds of millions in Medicare reimbursements if EMS providers could provide alternative treatment.

Duncan Middle School students participated in a program to make holiday-themed aprons for local nursing homes.

ASCOG Advocate: December 6, 2013

On this date, in 1790, the U.S. Congress moved from New York City.

President's House.

To what city did the Congress move?

Deadly nursing home fire in Ohio was overshadowed by the death of a president.

Medicare to expand rehab coverage for heart patients.

How caregivers can prevent senior financial abuse.

Dementia cases are on the decline.

It's not too late to start exercising to improve your health.

ASCOG Advocate: December 5, 2013

The sixth President of the United States.

On this date, in 1831, this former U.S. President takes his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.  

What was his name?


A study out of U.C. Berkeley finds a possible 100% increase in Medi-Cal due to aging Boomers.

Staying active in later years boosts physical as well as mental health.

United Healthcare continues to cut doctors from its Medicare Advantage plan.

Medicare is looking at ways to reduce costs in post hospital care.

An insurance agent was caught stealing from the policy he sold to his elderly aunt.

ASCOG Advocate: December 4, 2013

The pope asks the Frankish King for assistance.

On this date, in 771, Austrasian King Carloman died, leaving control of the now complete Frankish Kingdom to his brother.

What was the name of the brother?

Medicare keeps dialysis payments the same, avoiding 9.4 percent cut.

Fewer than 60% of those estimated to need mental health care actually receive treatment.  Depression remains untreated in the elderly.

Glenn Harry is not going to let Alzheimer's take his wife; not without a fight.

A Georgia man shot and killed an Alzheimer's patient who knocked on his door and was wandering in his yard.

ASCOG Advocate: December 3, 2013

Julie Andrews and Richard Burton.

On this date, in 1960, this musical debuted on Broadway and would forever be associated with the Kennedy administration.

What was the name of the musical?

Kansas to move care of people with developmental disabilities to Medicaid managed care.

Time is muscle, could you tell if you were having a heart attack?

More than 60 percent of elder abuse cases involve financial exploitation.

Only four states require audits of nursing home resident trust funds. Oklahoma is not one of them.

An 85-year-old resident of a California retirement community becomes the latest prisoner of war in North Korea.

Scientists continue to find connections between mental health and physical ailments.

ASCOG Area Agency on Aging has published the 2015 ASCOG AAA Area Plan Summary.

ASCOG Advocate: December 2, 2013

1947 propaganda comic book.

On this date, in 1954, the U.S. Senate voted to condemn this senator for his behavior during the "Red Scare."

What was the name of the senator?

Elderly woman with dementia in traffic-death case is released to DHS custody.

Australian who murdered octogenarians is feared still at large.

Nursing home operators breathe easier in states with tort reform.

For many Boomers, aging in place means going digital.

Medicaid enrollment expected to increase by about nine million.  More than 100,000 have already enrolled in the 25 states who denied Medicaid expansion.  

ASCOG Advocate: November 26, 2013

British Airways flight in 1986.

On this date, in 2003, this plane made its final flight over Bristol England.

What was the name of the plane?

HHS announces energy assistance funding.

Medicare Open Enrollment ends soon.

Accountable Care Organizations, how Obama is cutting Medicare.

Last week N4A released its federal budget cuts report called "Squeezing Seniors."

Kaiser's compilation of stories related to Medicaid and Medicare.

ASCOG Offices will be closed for the holidays from noon on November 27 through November 29.

ASCOG Advocate: November 25, 2013

Super Typhoon Nina approaching landfall.

On this date, in 1987, Typhoon Nina pummeled this country with category 5 winds of 165 mph and a surge that destroyed entire villages.  Over 1,000 deaths were attributed to the typhoon.  

What is the name of the country that was decimated by this storm?

Compared to men, women who are caregivers are significantly less likely to be in the labor force.

Recessions connected to later mental decline.

Forty-four percent of Americans incorrectly believe Medicare will pay for their long-term care.

Two important updates for Medicare open enrollment.

Jeff Foxworthy:  You might be a caregiver if...

ASCOG Advocate: November 22, 2013

1736 engraving.

On this date, in 1718, the British pirate Edward Teach was killed in battle off the coast of North Carolina.

By what name was Teach better known?

Oklahoma Silver-Haired Legislature to take bills to Capitol.

Relief workers in the Philippines struggle to ensure victims with disabilities are not forgotten.

An 85-year-old American and  Korean War veteran was detained in North Korea.

Jose Katz was sentenced to 6.5 years in prison for his crime of bilking Medicare and Medicaid out of $19 million.

A California nursing home operator agreed to pay $48 million to settle a Medicare fraud case.

The U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging established a new anti-fraud hotline to assist seniors.

This is a time to give thanks for caregivers.

Celebrating the holidays when a loved on has Alzheimer's.

A new treatment for people with high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease.

Scientists have made min-kidneys using human stem cells.

ASCOG AAA will host public planning forums in Geronimo and Anadarko.

ASCOG Advocate: November 21, 2013

An image in Promptuarii Iconum Insigniorum

On this date, in 164 BC, the son of Mattathias of the Hasmonean family restored the Temple in Jerusalem.  The event is commemorated each year in the festival of Hanukkah.  

What was the name of the son of Mattathias?

Boomers are facing higher debts than their parents.

A "self-advocate" with autism promotes a new level of inclusion in the community.

An Altus couple opens their home and invites those in need to watch some football, do some laundry.

Most people misunderstand long-term care coverage and costs.

Web MD:  Nutrition, diet and your heart.

The telltale signs of elder abuse.

ASCOG Advocate: November 20, 2013

View of the landmark from the "Long Walk."

On this date, in 1992, fire broke out in this historic British landmark, causing over £50 million worth of damage.

What is the name of the landmark?

"Granny cams" are becoming more popular as states battle with nursing homes to ensure patient safety.

Boomers are not talking about their finances with their children as they face retirement, health care crises.

A South Dakota candidate proposes Medicare for all ages.

Ten things you need to know about being a caregiver.

ASCOG Advocate: November 19, 2013

1958 Corsair

On this date, in 1959, the Ford Motor Company announced it would discontinue this unpopular model of car.

What was the name of the  model Ford discontinued?

Fraudsters are exploiting new health care law by taking advantage of confusion during Medicare open enrollment.

After 57 years of accepting each other as they are, couple battling Alzheimer's doesn't plan to change.

Michigan hotel owner admits to tying parents in bed and leaving them in filth. 

Some still hold out hopes for a government-run, long-term care insurance.

ASCOG Advocate: November 18, 2013

Modern telephone.

On this date, in 1963, this new telephone technology first went into service.

What was this new technology?

The Oklahoma Health Care Authority needs $150 million in new funds.

Medicare penalized over 1,400 hospitals for low quality scores.

Local agencies are offering winter assistance for the needy.

Hospitals may be disappearing in the era of health care reform.

Elizabeth Dole:  Military and veteran caregivers also need our support.

Video:  How do we better support caregivers?

Sing more show tunes, reap cognitive benefits.

ASCOG Advocate: November 15, 2013

The sender of the package when he
was a a professor at Berkeley.

On this date, in 1979, a package began smoking in the cargo hold of a flight from Chicago to Washington, D.C., forcing the plane to make an emergency landing.

Who sent the package?

OIG:  States need to provide better oversight to Medicaid managed care providers.

A new study shows major depression can speed up the aging process on the molecular level.

Premiums for long-term care insurance expected to rise 25%.

Researchers are looking into patients' eyes as a way to diagnose Alzheimer's.

Aging home buyers show a promised growth in the housing industry.

ASCOG Advocate: November 14, 2013

Astronaut Pete Conrad

On this date, in 1969, NASA launched its second manned mission to the moon.

What was the name of the mission?

The U.S. Department of Transportation fined US Airways $1.2 million for failure to provide wheelchair assistance to passengers with disabilities.

New high-cholesterol treatment guidelines were released Tuesday.

ACL's Kathy Greenlee is thankful for caregivers.

Caregivers, make sure your loved one's Medicare coverage still meets their needs.

A benefits checkup can help caregivers.

ASCOG Advocate: November 13, 2013

Manhattan entrance to the tunnel, 1985.

On this date, in 1927, this tunnel opened to traffic.  It was the first vehicle tunnel that connected New York and New Jersey underneath the Hudson River.

What is the name of the tunnel?


Feds are still rounding up fugitive Medicare fraudsters.

A Bush era rule goes into effect requiring equal treatment for mental health.

Nursing homes are the most dangerous places to work.

Seven myths about multiple sclerosis.

ASCOG Area Agency on Aging was awarded a grant for chore and home repair services.

ASCOG Advocate: November 12, 2013

Lake in the Scottish Highlands

On this date, in 1933, Hugh Gray took the first known photo of this creature believed to inhabit a lake in Scotland.

What is the name of the creature?

Advocates are concerned California is failing to protect residents from abuse by caregivers.

Under managed care, the incentive to hospitalize acute care dementia patients is decreased.

New rules will make air travel easier to passengers with disabilities.

A 29-year-old faces 45 years of prison for Medicaid fraud.

The deadline for Medicare open enrollment is getting closer.

ASCOG Advocate: November 8, 2013

St. Mary Lake

On this date, in 1889, this state, also known as the "Land of the Shining Mountains," became the 41st U.S. state. 

What is the name of this state?

CMS announced that Medicare recipients saved $8.3 billion due to changes from the Affordable Care Act.

The most common form of elder abuse is financial exploitation, but it remains difficult to prove.

Medicare Part B premiums have been announced.

November is Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, National Diabetes Month, National Family Caregivers Month and National Native American Heritage Month.

ASCOG offices will be closed on Monday, November 11, in celebration of Veterans' Day.

ASCOG Advocate: November 7, 2013

First Congresswoman.

On this date, in 1916, this woman was the first to be elected to the United States Congress.

What was her name?


A Rhode Island nursing home administrator agreed to settle embezzlement claims for only $1.2 million.  He was found guilty of embezzling at least ten times that from nursing homes.

Social Security announced a 1.5 percent increase in benefits for 2014.

Misunderstandings about the Medicare Part D late enrollment penalty.

One-third of veterans seeking mental health treatment have to wait weeks for their first appointment.

Lawmakers seek Medicare focus on the qualify of doctor care.

November is National Family Caregivers Month.

The younger generation is doing a better job of planning for long term care.

Medicare publishes resource to battle scams against seniors.

ASCOG Advocate: November 5, 2013

Picture from mid 1870s.

On this date, in 1912, this man was elected President of the United States.  He went on to create the League of Nations.

What was his name?

NODA is dropping its Area Agency on Aging.

A look back at the failed experiment of Oklahoma fully capitated Medicaid managed care.

Senators John McCain and Robert Menendez push to ratify Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.  

Job seekers with vision impairment remain largely unwanted in the U.S. workplace.

The F.B.I. continues to seek fugitives who made Miami the capital of healthcare corruption.

ASCOG Advocate: November 4, 2013

Agency headquarters.

On this date, in 1952, this intelligence agency was created by President Harry S. Truman.  

What is the name of the agency?

An Iowa nursing home director, cited for failing to protect residents from a convicted sex offender, was fined $500.

An increasing number of assisted living residents are seriously ill or have dementia.

Gradual onset of heart attach symptoms does not mean you should wait longer to receive treatment.

Medicare doctors are facing a 24% pay cut.

It is important for caregivers to plan ahead by learning more about their loved-one's finances.

It's important for caregivers to know that when they have authority to handle someone else's money, it is not theirs to spend as they please.

Many Boomers are realizing their siblings are also in need of long-term care.

ASCOG Advocate: November 1, 2013

Maple Leaf Gardens, where
the first game was played.

On this date, in 1946, the Toronto Huskies played in the first game of the Basketball Association of America.  They lost 68-66.  

What was the name of the team that defeated the Huskies?

Oklahoma has one of the highest rates of Medicare beneficiaries receiving at least one high-risk medication.

Medicaid enrollments surge ahead of health care exchange purchases.

Health care exchange issues overshadow Medicare open enrollment.

A warning to caregivers about mishandling your loved one's finances.

Caregivers struggled after the Valley Springs Manor long-term care facility abandoned their residents upon losing their license.

Even modest increases in blood sugar can contribute to memory loss in later years.

Older workers report high job satisfaction.

Some tips for the overtaxed caregiver.

As pensions are replaced by lump-sum retirement plans, scams are on the rise.

ASCOG Advocate: October 31, 2013

Carl G. Fisher who
conceived of the highway.

On this date, in 1913, the first automobile highway across the United States was dedicated.  The highway spans from Times Square in New York to Lincoln Park in San Francisco.

What is the name of the highway?

A man with multiple sclerosis becomes the first person with a disability to skydive over Mount Everest.

Mississippi Medicaid director calls for expansion of managed care.

Aetna managed care sees is multi-million dollar increase in profits.

Enrollment scandal provides turbulence in New York's transition to Medicaid managed long-term care.

Kathy Greenlee discusses the growing problem of elder abuse.

Congressional Business Office:  Raising the Medicare eligibility age saves less than previously thought.

The Medicare Part B premium will stay the same in 2014; hospital deductibles rise.

Six reasons to choose a new Medicare Part D plan.

Consumer Reports examines the world of anti-aging supplements.

California sued over lagging nursing home investigations.

The National Center on Senior Transportation has a new website.

ASCOG Advocate: October 30, 2013

Creator of the Mercury
Theatre on the Air programs.

On this date, in 1938, this "Panic Broadcast" was performed by The Mercury Theatre of the Air.  The first forty minutes of the broadcast were simulated news bulletins which made the listeners believe the broadcast was real.  

What was the name of the show performed by the Mercury Theatre?

The AMDA seeks to develop a policy to address the intimate behaviors of dementia patients in long-term care facilities.

A popular cafe in Great Britain gives employment opportunities to persons with disabilities.

NASA's lessons from Voyager provide good advice for those preparing for long-term care.

Got an hour?  Give it back to seniors.

The Arthritis Foundation and the National Council on Aging are providing an online arthritis workshop.

ASCOG Advocate; October 29, 2013

Discovery launch.

On this date, in 1998, Space Shuttle Discovery blasted off with a 77-year-old astronaut aboard, making them the oldest person to ever go into space.  

What is the name of the astronaut?

A long-term care facility in California is under criminal investigation for abandoning 14 patients.

CMS prohibits blanket nursing home policies that restrict the use of CPR.

Medicare fraud risk is higher during open enrollment.

Healthy diet and exercise best for your heart and your brain.

ASCOG Advocate: October 28, 2013

A caterpillar tractor widens the roadway.

On this date, in 1942, the Alcan Highway was completed through British Columbia and the Yukon.

What is the name by which this highway is more commonly known to Americans?

Workers with disabilities are paid 10% less than other workers and 8% less in total compensation as they opt for jobs with lower salaries and better benefits.

What does the latest budget deal mean for seniors?

SNAP benefits are expected to decrease.

Researchers hope to make screenings for Alzheimer's disease as important as cholesterol checks.

If you are not eligible for Medicare and not receiving Medicare, then you can find out more about the health care exchange by contacting your local Navigator.  This website can help.

The Older American Act Re-authorization Bill is scheduled to be heard this week in the Senate.

ASCOG Advocate: October 25, 2013

St. George's.

On this date, in 1983, during Operation Urgent Fury, the United States and its allies invaded this country.

What is the name of the country?

Advocates for patients in nursing homes are challenging a California law that permits doctors to ignore informed consent for treatment if they determine the patient is mentally incompetent.

Managed care is seen as the future of Medicaid.  The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has issued a memorandum to help states monitor the ever increasing use of managed care organizations.

Managed care companies in New York have come under scrutiny for the way they handle persons with disabilities.

Faced with soaring healthcare costs, managed care at home is quickly replacing nursing homes as the long-term care treatment of choice.

Elder abuse is on the rise while states' funding for adult protective services remains flat.

ASCOG offices are closed today for annual safety training.

ASCOG Advocate: October 24, 2013

The Rogers Center in 2004.

On this date, in 1992, this Major League Baseball team became the first team based outside of the United States to win a world series.

What was the name of the team?

More Oklahoma men are becoming caregivers.

Sleep disturbances have been linked to Alzheimer's disease.

Families can save over $10,000 annually if they plan ahead for long term care.

Simple advice on dealing with your concerns about your aging parents.

Victims of elder abuse suffer in silence.