Senior Nutrition Program Forced to Reduce Staff

The Delta Nutrition Program received significant budget cuts in State Fiscal Year 2013.  In order to balance its budget, Delta had hoped to develop a central kitchen in Lawton; but because of construction delays they were not able to realize enough savings to make that happen this year.  As a result, site staff at multiple nutrition sites had to be laid off.  The site manager position in Purcell is vacant and will not be replaced.  Additionally, cook aid positions in Temple, Ringling, Blanchard, Byars, Duncan, Frederick and Cache were eliminated.  Staff were notified on January 30 of the reduction.

Delta still plans to provide the same number of meals at all of these sites as long as program funding continues at its current level.  Unfortunately, if sequestration occurs, some sites may be closed.

For more information, contact Ken Jones at ASCOG.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 31, 2013

Happy Thursday!

On this date, in 1865, amidst civil war the U.S. Congress passed this landmark amendment to the Constitution.  What was the amendment?

Despite a recent decline in the gross domestic product, sequestration is more likely to happen.

She used to be too old for him.  But now, at 97, Laurie Bryant finally married her true love, Robert Bryant, 86. 

The Baby Boomers are aging out of the "Sandwich Generation," making way for Generation X to take over.  In a recent survey of the sandwich generation the parents felt closer to their children despite the financial burden.

Mission of Mercy, the free dental clinic, will be in Lawton from 5:00 a.m. tomorrow to 5:00 p.m Saturday.

For some caregivers, the emotional baggage that comes from their duties can be compared to post traumatic stress.

In a recent study, diabetes patients are twice as likely to have a hearing impairment.

A former caregiver pleaded guilty to financially exploiting two residents in her care.

According to participants in a recent policy summit, Medicare reform should be a grassroots effort.

Dr. Caroline Poplin shares her thoughts in the Tulsa World about how to reduce the costs of Medicare without reducing benefits.

According to recent studies, choral singing can keep older adults healthier.

ASCOG welcomes two new ombudsman volunteers.

The U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services released the 2013 poverty guidelines showing a single-person household will meet poverty with income below $11,490.

ASCOG Welcomes New Ombudsman Volunteers

ASCOG welcomes Ms. Lynette Richardson and Mr. Albert Gallaher as new Ombudsman Volunteers. They have been trained as advocates for long-term care facility residents. You can be an advocate just like them with free training provided by ASCOG. For further information contact Ruben Sotelo, ASCOG Ombudsman Supervisor, sote_ru@ascog.org, 1-800-658-1466, ext 21.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 30, 2013

Happy Wednesday!

On this date, in 1969, these artists held their last public performance as a group on the rooftop of Apple Records in London.  The impromptu concert was broken up by police. What was the name of their group?

Former acupuncturist and clinic owner, Won Suk Lee, is on Medicare's most wanted list for defrauding Medicare for over $1.2 million, and then fleeing the country.

Claims where Medicare is the secondary payer can be delayed by months or even years while awaiting resolution of the primary payer.

Dr. Alphonso Berry and two criminal colleagues pleaded guilty to submitting over $13.2 million worth of fraudulent Medicare claims over a seven year period for psychotherapy sessions, taking advantage of mentally disabled patients for the ruse. 

Jeffrey Pohl was sentenced to one year in county jail and restitution of $118,575 for financial exploitation of his 88 year-old father.

Since 1988, over 1,300 people age 65 and older have served as living kidney donors.

OKDHS Aging Services Division has published a special guide for grandparents raising grandchildren.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 29, 2013

Happy Tuesday, and how's everybody?

On this date, in 1963, the first inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame were announced.  One of the members of that charter class of inductees was a man called "Curly." Curly was founder, player and first coach of the Green Bay Packers.  In fact, they later named their stadium after him.  What is his real name?

The Oklahoma Attorney General is conducting a criminal investigation into charges of abuse and neglect in the state's veterans system.

The president and CEO of the American Hospital Association urges Congress to avoid any cuts to Medicare hospital and outpatient payments.

Oklahoma lawmakers urge their constituents to speak up.

Paul Harasim explains why "men do just fine as caregivers."

The impact of age stereotyping:  "Older people tend to become what they think they are to others."

Two million older Americans are abused every year in a variety of ways.

Why do we forget things as we get older?  Maybe it's because our aging brain makes it harder for us to get enough sleep.

A Houston film festival called "ReelAbilities" promotes awareness on the stories and art of individuals with disabilities.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 28, 2013

Happy Monday!  How was your weekend?

On this date, in 1985, Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie led a group of American artists in recording this hit single as part of the USA for Africa concerts to alleviate the famine in Ethiopia.  What was the name of their hit single?

A study shows that Americans cannot afford mental health treatment.

Family caregivers' "labor of love" helps seniors, disabled adults live at home for as long as possible.  Meanwhile, young caregivers have outlets to aid the cause.

A New Jersey bill would provide tax credits for family caregivers.  And the Minnesota Court of Appeals declared a new law allowing the state to pay less to relative caregivers was unconstitutional.

The use of shelters is rising in America as elder abuse rises.

According to reports by federal health officials, Medicare illegally funded $120 million worth of treatment for inmates and immigrants.  In the San Fernando Valley, a doctor pleaded guilty to scamming Medicare out of $3 million.  In Boston, a man was sentenced to probation, home confinement and a $10,000 fine for defrauding Medicare out of $70,000. 

Beware of scammers claiming to be Medicare officials.  Also, beware of emails claiming to be from the U.S. Treasury.

Here are five ways to keep the lights on when you are broke.

The Comanche National Museum and Cultural center will open a new exhibit on February 28 showcasing memorabilia from World War II Code Talkers.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 25, 2013

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date, in 1945, Allies marked the end of the famous Battle of the Ardennes.  19,000 American troops were killed along with approximately 3000 civilians. By what name is the battle better known among Americans?

Governor Mary Fallin is seeking more money for mental health services.  After shootings, more states are rethinking cuts to mental health care.  Meanwhile, the American Psychiatric Association is getting grief over its decision to expand the criteria for diagnosis of depression.

OKDHS Aging Services Division Director, Lance Robertson, is scheduled to speak at Oklahoma State University.

OK Mission of Mercy is set to provide free dental care in Lawton on February 1. 

The National Endowment for Financial Education provides this interactive brochure on making your retirement money last longer.

The Veterans Crisis Line now has online support for those who prefer to use the web rather than pick up the phone.

Flu.gov provides this video that explains why being 65 and older puts you at a higher risk for the flu.  Here are simple steps in flu prevention.  And if you ever wondered what was in the flu vaccine, here are the ingredients.

Leading Age shows us why high-tech aging is improving lives today.

A new study ties regular aspirin use to age-related vision loss, but your doctor is probably not ready to change your prescription for aspirin just yet.

A local Enid paper writes about the OKDHS plans to end state services at NORCE in 2015.

AARP answers the question, "At what age can you receive widow's benefits?"

If you want to keep your diabetes under control, you need to know your ABCs.

The FBI filed federal charges alleging captors held adults with disabilities in subhuman conditions in order to carry out Soc. Sec. fraud.

Why some Medicare-funded hospice programs may turn you away if you do not have a caregiver at home.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 24, 2013

Happy Thursday! 

On this date, in 1986, a man-made object passed within 51,600 miles of Uranus.  What is the name of the man-made object?

Caregivers who support their parents may be eligible for a tax break.

Caregivers of veterans are eligible for a VHA funded respite program.

Retiring Boomers are more likely to have a large mortgage payment eating up a bigger share of their savings.

The many perspectives of addressing the country's debt crisis:  As conservative lawmakers call on those between the ages of 55 and 65 to "cowboy up and save this country," CNN Money looks at how raising the Medicare eligibility age could impact younger workers.  Meanwhile, a bi-partisan approach looks to address the debt crisis over a longer term.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 23, 2013

Happy Wednesday! 

On this date, in 1943, American composer, pianist and big-band leader, Edward Kennedy, played at Carnegie Hall in New York City for the first time.  By what name was he more popularly known?

Medicare cuts for readmissions could have a significant impact on larger hospitals.

Hearing loss has been linked to mental decline in the elderly.

New research shows that debt and depression have some common links.

A caregiver from the 80's and 90's reflects on the challenges she faced before caregiver services were available.

The world's simplest cell phone designs can benefit certain elderly and their caregivers.

A study shows that virtual visits to the doctor can be cheaper and just as effective as in-person visits.

A centenarian from the ASCOG area shares her secret: Smile big, don't stress.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 22, 2013

Happy Tuesday!  How is everybody?

On this date, in 1946, this group was formed by the U.S. federal government and succeeded the Office of Strategic Services the next year.  What is it's name?  Here is a hint.

A new study shows that the caregiver's attitude and behavior has a much larger impact on the progression of Alzheimer's than previously thought.

A company called Redesign4Seniors is helping seniors age in place through universal design concepts that work for any age.

This year's inauguration was made more accessible thanks to the work of a joint congressional committee.

Persistence breaks resistance as Montanans with disabilities find a new way to hit the ski slopes.

The Understanding Differences curriculum helps young students see through the eyes of persons with disabilities.

OKDHS announced last week that Jo Anne Goin will succeed Jim Nicholson as the director of the Developmental Disabilities Services Division.

A former stockbroker was sentenced to five years in jail for elder fraud for more than $1 million.

Take the Kaiser Family Foundation Medicare quiz.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 18, 2013

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date, in 1977, scientists discovered this bacterium as the cause of a mysterious pneumonia outbreak at the convention of the American Legion in Philadelphia in 1976. What is the name of this disease?

CNN Money examines the high cost of raising the Medicare age while CEOs representing a third of the US stock market, count the savings.  This Kaiser Family Foundation study shows what savings and costs we might expect if the U.S. raises the Medicare eligibility age to 67.

New research shows that your ability to sit and rise from the floor has a direct correlation to your mortality.  (Check out yesterday's Advocate for a video on how to sit in the floor and rise again safely.)

AARP shares seven flu-fighting tips for family caregivers.

Former Senator John Breaux discusses the importance of saving the Medicare hospice benefit.

A California couple are found guilty of elder abuse in a civil case and are ordered to give up their home and pay $30,000.

If you are over 40 you are probably not as tall as you used to be, here's why.

New research suggests that aging brains can make us more prone to scams.

ASCOG offices will be closed on Monday, January 21, in celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 17, 2013

Happy Thursday and good morning!

On this date, in 2001, President Bill Clinton posthumously promoted this American soldier, explorer and former Governor of Louisiana Territory, from Lieutenant to Captain.  What was the name of the American he promoted?

Mental health advocates are praising President Obama's calls for change to the mental health system.

NPR examines why 25-year-old Zach Sayne died in a nursing home a state away from his mother.

New research shows that highly rated Medicare Advantage programs attract more participants.

Video:  Graceful Aging's Cathy Moxley shows you how you can get down on the floor and then get back up again in a safe way.

Save the date:  OKDHS Aging Services Division Director Lance Robertson will speak on older adults and aging services, at OSU.

OKDHS is seeking a Programs Administrator to serve in the Aging Services Division.

Oklahoma Mission of Mercy is set to conduct it's fourth annual, two-day clinic in Lawton for patients with dental needs.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 16, 2013

Happy Wednesday! 

On this date, in 1919, the United States ratified the Eighteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.  What policy did the Eighteenth Amendment enact?

Tracy Frank examines the important role grandparent caregivers play in raising their grandchildren.

In California, a nurse is sentenced to three years in prison for elder abuse.

HHS.gov : Medicare continues slow rate of spending growth per capita.
 
Margarita Tartakovsky reviews the reasons why people fail to seek mental health treatment.

AbleGamers announces that "FIFA 13" is the Accessible Mainstream Game of the Year.

Rita Watson calls on Baby Boomers to "start turning nursing homes upside down."

Christianity and Mental Health: Have We Lost Our Faith? (Disclaimer: ASCOG does not endorse any specific religion.)

CCCS: The Walking Debt: Your bill-paying survival kit for the new year.

The Washington Post calls for Medicare provider payments to be subject to the Freedom of Information Act.

ASCOG AAA releases the 2014 Request for Proposals package for support service and nutrition providers.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 15, 2013

Happy Tuesday!  How's everybody?

On this date, in 1943, the world's largest office building was dedicated in Arlington, VA.  What is the name of that building?

Looking south toward Arlington's Rosslyn and Crystal City skylines from Georgetown University.

The current wave of flu is stretching the resources of the nation's hospitals.  Flu.gov has released an online flu vaccine finder.  It takes two weeks for the flu vaccine to prepare your immune system.  If you have the flu, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever goes away.

A New York Times blog discusses the role of home delivered meals in nursing home diversion.

It does not pay to wait when it comes to long-term care insurance and retirement planning.

Free tax return preparation is available to seniors.

Save the date:  2013 Senior Day at the Capitol is February 25!

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 14, 2013

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V in Rabat

Happy Monday!  Where did that warm weather go?

On this date in 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, on his trip to Morocco, was the first president to do this.  What did he do?  Here's a hint.

Harvey Dawkins, ignoring his personal struggles with cerebral palsy and epilepsy, rides his bike to raise money for his friend with multiple sclerosis.

"Amour" brings Oscar nods as it shares a love story of a couple in their 80s.

If you are on Medicare, beware of this phone scam seeking to obtain your personal banking information.

The Oklahoma Health Care Authority selected a new leader, Nico Gomez.

Sherri Snelling shares her ideas on how caregivers can resolve to care for themselves.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway settled an ADA lawsuit with the Justice Department, agreeing to convert its 100-year-old facility into compliance with accessibility laws.

Consumer Reports released an investigative report on financial exploitation of elders.

"Losing the West," a film about how the west has been lost to urbanization, will be featured at the local Traildance Film Festival.

Mark your calendars:  The Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments will be hosting its annual "Senior Day" event on April 3. 

ASCOG plans Senior Day 2013

The Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments (ASCOG) is hosting "Senior Day" on April 3, 2013.  The event will take place at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center in Duncan and is sponsored by the Bank of Commerce.  Individuals 60 or older who live in Caddo, Carter, Comanche, Cotton, Grady, Jefferson, McClain, Stephens and Tillman counties are eligible to compete in the three contests featured during the events. There will be a Poetry Contest, a Photography Contest, a Quilt and Crafts Contest, and a Spelling Bee.

 

Top three winners in each event will receive prizes. There will be door prizes throughout the day, bingo, live entertainment and much, much more. Lunch will be provided.

 

Participation is free. For registration and application, please contact Shannon Casady at the ASCOG Area Agency on Aging, 1-800-658-1466.

(Contributed by Heather Sladek)

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 11, 2013

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date, in 1949, was the first ever recorded case of this in Los Angeles California.  What was it?

Why is the 2013 flu so dangerous?  How can you tell the difference between a cold and the flu?  How can you stay away from the flu at work? 

According to a new report, the older you are the more likely you are to live even longer.

Comedians with disabilities tell you what's funny, and what isn't.

An appeals court ruling declares the Americans with Disabilities Act covers severe allergies.

Kim Skaggs Tutt explains how her life with disabilities gave her a passion for advocacy.

The Oklahoma Developmental Disabilities Council calls for artists with disabilities to submit their work for the "Expressions Gallery."

An independent auditor found the Scooter Store received over $87 million in Medicare overpayments.  If you have questions about your Medicare benefits statement, please contact Heather Sladek at our office.

AARP answers the question, "What's that code on my Medicare card?"

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 10, 2013

Happy Thursday!  Are you ready for summer yet?

On this date, in 1776, an "Englishman" published a pamphlet that had the largest circulation (compared to a relative proportion of population) in American History.  The name of the pamphlet was "Common Sense."  What was the name of the author?


OKDHS Director Ed Lake began his first of several listening sessions at the Great Plains Technology Center in Lawton, yesterday.

The 2013 flu is the worst in the last decade, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

The workforce is aging, but are American businesses ready for mature workers?

Concern is being raised about the exorbitant use of emergency rooms by adults with disabilities.

Is it possible to get a flu shot and then still get the flu?

Here are some tips for senior caregivers on how to avoid financial exploitation.

New OKDHS Director Ed Lake Listens

Ed Lake, newly hired director for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, opened the meeting by saying he was from Tennessee and was still getting to know Oklahoma.  Then he told the crowd gathered at the Great Plains Technology Center in Lawton that he did not come to talk, but to listen, and turned the microphone over to anyone who came to speak.

A wireless microphone was made available and everyone who came was given an opportunity to speak to Director Lake about the problems they have and visions they see for the future of the agency.  Representatives from Child Support Services, child care facilities, child welfare programs, youth shelters and aging services were there to voice their concerns and to problem solve.  Several members of the state legislature were in attendance as well.

This was the first of five listening sessions Lake will be conducting throughout the state.  His next stop is Enid on January 10 at the Autry Technology Center Lectorium, 1201 West Willow.  Then he will be at the Metro Tech Center Springlake Campus Auditorium in Oklahoma City on January 11, the Tulsa Tech Center in Broken Arrow on January 14 and the Kiamichi Tech Center in McAlester on January 17. 

All sessions begin at 10:00 a.m.  There is a sign-in sheet for those who wish an opportunity to speak.  Guests are encouraged to arrive early.

If you cannot attend a listening session, you can email Director Lake at DHS.ask.Ed@okdhs.org.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 9, 2013

Happy Wednesday!  How's Everybody?

On this date, in 1947, Elizabeth Short was last seen alive.  She was later found murdered in one of the most publicized, and still unsolved mysteries in America.  What was the moniker given to her by the press?

Doctors and hospitals are concerned about future health care spending cuts after assessing the deal to avoid the "fiscal cliff."

The Oklahoma Aging Advocacy Leadership Academy application deadline has been extended to January 10.

Dr. Alphonso Berry scammed Medicare out of almost $5 million.  He faces a maximum of 60 years in prison and a $1.5 million fine.  If you are aware of any fraudulent claims filed against Medicare, contact Heather Sladek at 1.800.658.1466.

A new study shows that Medicare spends about $1 billion each year on breast cancer screenings, roughly the same amount spent on treatment.

Speaking a second language all your life may give your aging brain a boost.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness gives the US a grade of "D," Oklahoma a "B," in delivery of mental health care.

Free Training Opportunity for Aging Advocates

Oklahoma City - A free training opportunity will be available 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. The course consists of 10, two-day sessions over a one-year period. Instruction is tentatively set to begin in February.

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.

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 application deadline has been extended to January 10, 2013. For more information or to apply, contact Leitner at (405) 752-1257 or ASD at (405) 521-2281.  (Contributed by Katherine McRae, OKDHS Aging Services Division)

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 4, 2013

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date, in 1999, this former professional wrestler was sworn in as the governor of Minnesota.  What is his name?

Sequestration still looms in the not too distant future; federal agencies are bracing for the worst.

Consumer Reports provides tips on how to prevent elder abuse and financial exploitation.

Congress repealed the CLASS Act, replacing it with the newly created Long-Term Care Commission.

This chart by Bloomberg shows how the growing number of aging Americans can have a significant impact on entitlement programs.

In Northeast Florida, adults with disabilities are given an opportunity to learn sustainability through a nonprofit greenhouse.

ASCOG Aging Advocate January 2, 2013

Happy Wednesday!  How's everybody?

On this date, in 1920, this biochemistry professor was born.  He was also a great author, best known for his science fiction works such as "I, Robot" which was later made into a movie starring Will Smith.  What was the name of this author?

Congress makes a deal to avoid the "fiscal cliff."  The deal prevents Medicare cuts in doctor fees.  The deal also creates a commission to review long-term care.

The "Virtual Dementia Tour" can help caregivers walk in the shoes of those they care for.

Federal health care inspectors report that overcharging is greater in nursing homes which are for-profit.

Even with fiscal cliff cuts avoided, more doctors are expected to leave Medicare in 2013.