ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 28, 2013

David Koresh
(McLennan County Sheriff's Office)

Happy Thursday!

On this date, in 1993, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents raided this church in Waco, Texas with an arrest warrant for David Koresh.  What was the name of the church?

The Veterans Administration is condensing their Washington, D.C. offices in a plan that will save $60 million over the next ten years.

The State of Washington was able to rebalance their Medicaid long-term services and supports. 

Red flags in nursing home care are not always easy to spot.  Here are nine warning signs of bad care.

If you have not yet signed up for electronic payments from the U.S. government, you may be missing a payment in March.

An 85-year-old Wisconsin legislator is still making the tough calls and shows no sign of stopping.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 27, 2013

Twenty-second Amendment
(Public domain)

Happy Wednesday!

On this date, in 1951, the twenty-second amendment to the U.S. Constitution is ratified following the end of the Franklin D. Roosevelt presidency.  What did this amendment do?

Despite the blizzard conditions, over 330  showed up for Senior Day at the Capitol to advocate for senior issues.

In 2012, the Department of Justice and the FBI worked together to recover over $4.2 billion in Medicare fraud.

A Georgia woman was sentenced to 30 years in prison for taking six disabled, elderly people into her home and exploiting them.

Gender pricing will likely continue in long-term care insurance premiums.

A 32-year-old man discovered he had Asperger's and changed his life.  Now, at 40, he is winning an award for his advocacy.

What to ask to ensure your loved one is getting the care they need in a nursing home.

An old Medicare Part D scam is popping up again.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 26, 2013

Chain Home tower in
the United Kingdom
(public domain)

Happy Tuesday!  How's everybody?

On this date, in 1935, Robert Watson-Wyatt carried out a demonstration in England on the development of this pulsed-system radio wave technology.  The Brits called it RDF.  What did the Americans call it?

Most economists believe sequestration is inevitable.  AARP answers questions about how the fiscal cliff will impact seniors.

Depression does not have to be a part of the aging process.  But when elders become depressed, it can be difficult to recognize as there are several causes for elderly depression.

A senate bill will provide authority to the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to oversee the Narconon Arrowhead facility.

Congressional committees are examining the role Medicare should have in deficit reduction.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 25, 2013

(Wikipedia Commons)

Happy Monday morning to ya!

On this date, in 1991, this treaty was disbanded.  It had joined eight communist states of central and eastern Europe.  What was the name of the treaty?

Sequestration is now only a few days away.  Oklahoma state agencies are preparing for cuts.


Medicare drug costs are going down in 2014, but seniors may be hitting the donut hole sooner.

The 2013 Oklahoma Senior Day at the Capitol is scheduled for today, however, snow may be an obstacle.

An Ohio legislator is introducing a bill that would create mandatory reporting for bankers and financial advisors who suspect elder abuse.  A similar bill is being considered in Colorado.

The results of OKDHS Director Lake's listening sessions have been published.

Alzheimer's caregivers have to put on their loved one's shoes in order to cope.

An art program founder finds ways to allow artists with disabilities to complete their visions through the use of mediums.

Mental health is a key topic since Newtown.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 22, 2013

The White House
(Matt Wade - Wikipedia)

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date in 1974, this man attempted to assassinate President Nixon by crashing a plane into the White House.  What was his name?

CBS News asks the questions, "Will sequestration really be that bad?"

This graph by the Washington Post shows the shrinking Medicare budget.

A new investigation report shows that Medicare overpays on certain medications by hundreds of millions.

A journal publication reveals that people with disabilities are at greater risk of violence and subsequent mental illness.

An Optometrist from August, GA, pleaded guilty to defrauding Medicare for more than $800,000.

A local Tulsa station put Oklahoma mental health services under a microscope.


The National Council on Aging explains why managing your medicine matters.


More and more grandparents find themselves in the parenting role.

A new federal rule requires insurers to offer mental health coverage.


US News shares what you need to know about long-term care.

A Missouri bill could turn vacant nursing home beds into senior living quarters.

Oklahoma ranks low on fruits and vegetables.

And caregivers should get foot massages.  (I'm not making this up)

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 21, 2013

Steve Fossett
 (2006, Public domain)

Happy Thursday!

On this date in 1995, Steve Fossett became the first man to accomplish this feat.  What was it?

Projected Medicare spending has fallen by more than $500 billion according to the Congressional Budget Office.

Mental health drugs are vital for Medicare patients.

Oklahoma lawmakers have $7 billion to spend on the state's budget.

Simpson and Bowles release a new plan that cuts the federal deficit by $2.4 trillion, attempting to bridge the gap between Republicans and Democrats.

A New York woman used a hidden camera to reveal abuse by a caregiver of her 89-year-old grandmother.

Medicare adjustments to Advantage plans send stocks lower for insurance agencies.

Medicare patients were sent to jail for accepting kickbacks in Medicare fraud scheme.

Oklahoma bill calls for an investigation into the state's care of people who are dual-eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 20, 2013

Stinear Lake in Vestfold Hills (Peter Schuller, Wikipedia Commons)

Happy Wednesday!

On this date in 1935, Caroline Mikkelsen was part of an expedition that made landfall at the Vestfold Hills, making her the first woman to do what?

One Oklahoma legislator wants to correct what he calls a "slap in the face" to veterans.

A man accused of elder genocide shares his perspectives on Medicare, Social Security and the federal budget crisis.

The outgoing head of Social Security says that the program is "fraying from neglect."

An integrated clinic brings a new model of physical and mental health to patients.

James and Virginia Dungan have been married for 72 years and they are still in love.

The Administration for Community Living launched its new website.

The chemistry conflict, are we hard-wired to hate exercise?

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 19, 2013

U.S. Marines (Public domain)

Happy Tuesday!  How's everybody?

On this date in 1945, about 30,000 United States Marines landed on this island in the Pacific.  What is the name of the island?

Alarm bells are sounding but sequestration is still likely.

Caregivers are motivated to keep their loved ones out of nursing homes.

A majority of Americans suffering from mental illness are not receiving treatment, according to a recent study.

Medicare is requiring pharmacies to end the practice of refilling prescriptions without patient approval.

Out of pocket expenses for prescriptions will be reduced for Medicare recipients.

Founder of Women Embracing Abilities Now honored with the 2012 Presidential Citizen's Medal.

Families are turning to continuous care retirement communities as an alternative to long term care.

President's Day

ASCOG offices are closed today in celebration of President's Day.  You can still reach us to learn about area services through our senior information line at 1.800.211.2116. 

If you have an emergency, call 1.580.786.4369.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 15, 2013

Good morning!  It's Friday!

USS Maine entering Havana harbor in January 1898
(Public domain)

On this date, in 1898, the USS Maine explodes and sinks in Havana harbor, killing more than 260.  This event led the Unites States to declare war on what country? 

Senator Tom Coburn told a morning talk show host that sequestration will happen.

Environmental factors may slow the impact of dementia, and caregivers can help.

In an attempt to reduce re-hospitalizations, senior care communities are working on fall prevention programs.

Alzheimer's is much more prevalent in Boomers than previously projected.

One in ten older Americans are victims of abuse according to a new study.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 14, 2013

Dean Martin with the birthday girl.
(Public Domain)

Happy Thursday!

On this date, in 1934, this American actress was born in Dale, Indiana to a tobacco sharecropper.  What is her name?

Senator Marco Rubio responds to President Obama's State of the Union address, discussing healthcare policies and touting the GOP Medicare plan.

Secretary Kathleen Sebelius takes the lead in launching a national dialogue on mental health.

New FHA rules on reverse mortgages make them safer; but they may also be less appealing.

If you thought being a female firefighter was tough, try doing it in your sixties.

For John David, work means working out, he is 73 and a fitness instructor.

If you are living paycheck to paycheck, check out this article on nonessential spending.

If you are trying to lose weight, you might want to check the clock.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 13, 2013

Happy Wednesday!

Sahaptin tribal representatives in Washington D.C.,
including Umatilla chief Peo.
(Wikipedia Commons - Smithsonian)

On this date, in 2011, for the first time in more than 100 years the Umatilla, an American Indian tribe, are able to do this activity just outside Yellowstone National Park, restoring a tradition guaranteed by a treaty signed in 1855.  What was the activity?

Here's a hint.

In yesterday's State of the Union address, President Obama called on Congress to protect programs aimed at retirement security.

The United States Department of Agriculture reports that food insecurity is more likely in households with an adult with a work-limited disability.

In in ironic perspective, Jan Bruce argues that health may be our next fiscal cliff.

In light of Pope Benedict's retirement, the question is asked, "How old is too old to serve as a world leader?"  Gerontologist Leo Cooney discusses how aging influences our working lives.

A Sacramento long-term care resident dies of complications from severe bed sores.  The facility operator faces manslaughter charges.

A new study shows that community-associated, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) was found in 20 out of 22 nursing homes tested in Orange County, CA.

Heart disease can make your body too weak to fight the flu; if you have the flu you are at a greater risk of heart attack.

Southern food, though very popular, can be bad for your brain.

Senior financial abuse is rarely reported.

The Veterans Administration has added 1,000 mental health professionals, falling short of an executive order.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 12, 2013

1893 - (Public Domain)

Happy Tuesday, and how's everybody?

On this date, in 1994, four men broke into the National Gallery of Norway and stole this Edward Munch, iconic painting.  What is the name of the painting?

The White House announced that it will oppose any raise in the Medicare eligibility age.

Governor Mary Fallin promised to "...Help those suffering from mental health illnesses, whatever their age, and we're going to get them the help they need."

OKDHS Director Lake urges the agency to move forward instead of settling with progress already made.  DHS is undergoing a "massive self-examination and reorganization."

The U.S. crackdown on Medicare and Medicaid fraud has netted over $4 billion.

AARP answers the question, "Medicare Doctor Pay: Why is it so hard to fix?"

Public affection may indicate a healthier love life for older adults.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: February 11, 2013

Circa 1937 - Public Domain

Good Monday morning!  Hope you had a great weekend!

On this date, in 1990, this man was released from Victor Verster Prison outside Cape Town after 27 years as a political prisoner.  What is his name?

A new bipartisan bill in the U.S. Senate is designed to boost mental health-care.  The Houston Rockets' Royce White is advocating for mental health.  A Minneapolis sheriff asks for more funding for mental health care.  And Katherine Heart is fighting for routine mental health screenings.

Charles Kenny explains why an aging population "may be what the world needs."

The U.S. House of Representatives is considering a permanent change to the Medicare sustainable growth rate.

Caregivers now have their own version of "Chicken Soup for the Soul."

A Tulsa World article shares how much Oklahoma's Medicare patients saved in prescription drug costs.

The Edmond Sun's Mike Hinkle explains how science should be embraced by the aging population.

ASCOG Aging Advocate February 8, 2013

Public domain.

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date, in 1925, this American actor was born in an elevator in Newton, Massachusetts.  He was also skilled in playing the piano, harmonica, organ and double bass.  What was his name?

Medicare recipients save an average of $706 per person since the 2010 health care law closed the doughnut hole.

Cigna forecasts higher earnings due to Medicare acquisition, despite new health care law provisions.

Even though recent CBO reports show that spending is decreasing, Medicare is still expected to run short of funding by 2024.

Linda Rhodes provides some tips for caregivers who are trapped in the anxiety cycle.

Note to stroke survivors and their caregivers: "Self-esteem, optimism and perceived control influence depression."

The Fed is expected to issue new rules on mental health coverage this month; the rules are expected to guide equality for mental health.

ASCOG Aging Advocate February 7, 2013

Trinidad, UNESCO World Heritage Site (Elemaki)

Happy Thursday!

On this date, in 1962, the Unites States banned all imports and exports with this country.  What is the name of the country?

The White House is preparing federal agencies for the sequester.

Two Lawton area dentists successfully organized Mission of Mercy which helped out over 1,000 patients with dental care.

Financial advisers share stories of elder abuse. 

Dr. James Ralabate settled a case of Medicare Fraud for $700,000.

The Congressional Business Office lowered Medicare spending projections.

Scientists think they may have found the fountain of youth in a laboratory.

An estimated 19 percent of farmers are disabled, but AgrAbility is helping farmers and ranchers stay on the job.

NPR addresses the question, "Will your long-term care coverage keep up with changing times?"

EEOC complaints are on the rise for male caregivers.

ASCOG Aging Advocate February 6, 2013

Public domain.

Happy Wednesday!

On this date, in 1911, this actor was born in Tampico, Illinois.  His father was a salesman and a storyteller.  As a boy, he wore a "Dutchboy" haircut for which he was later nicknamed.  What is his name?

Boomers are active, but they are also prone to diabetes, hypertension and a lot of medication.

Dr. Jennifer Landa shares seven foods that fight aging.

Mary Louise Moore was sentenced to 270 days in jail plus restitution for stealing $28,000 from an 87-year-old woman in an assisted living center.

According to a new study, work-related stress can have an impact on elderly disability.

The Federal government is targeting anti-psychotic use in nursing homes.

The U.S. is proposing scrapping some obsolete Medicare regulations.

The Utah State House of Representatives is backing  tele-mental health.

ASCOG Aging Advocate February 5, 2013

Stephen W. Thompson (Wikipedia Commons)

Happy Tuesday!  How's everybody?

On this date, in 1918, Stephen W. Thompson shot down a German plane over Saarbrucken, Germany.  What was significant about that event?

Governor Fallin proposes $50 million increase to the Oklahoma Department of Human Services as well as a $16 million increase for mental health services.

Is raising the retirement age to 70 the best thing for America?  CEOs think it is.

Under a new law doctors will be required to disclose financial relationships with drug makers.

March 1 is the deadline to switch from paper to electronic payments from the federal government.

A new study reveals going Vegetarian can reduce your risk for heart attacks.

A new scam uses a pre-recorded voice to pitch emergency care alarm systems to seniors.

New research shows seniors who switch from Medicare Advantage to traditional Medicare have more significant health problems, raising the implication that Advantage programs are not working toward the best interest of the very ill.

ASCOG Aging Advocate February 4, 2013

Schneewittchen by Alexander Zick

Happy Monday!  Hope you had a great weekend!

On this date, in 1938, Disney released nationwide the first feature-length film using cel animation.  What was the name of the movie?


Senate Bill 587, known as the "Protecting Our Loved Ones" Act, would put video cameras in nursing home resident rooms.

Nathan Levine shows how people with disabilities can thrive in the workplace.  And a speaker with a learning disability refuses to acknowledge the word "can't."

French photographer Sacha Goldberger shows us how caregiving can be laced with humor.

Forbes answers the question, "What can you do when your aging parent has dementia?"

Hospitals are signing up for bundled Medicare payments, despite receiving less.  Hospitals are also working harder to obtain Medicare bonuses based on performance.

The Human Services' Office of Inspector General finds that Medicare overpaid $15 million for the Roche cancer drug.

ASCOG Aging Advocate February 1, 2013

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date, in 1979, this convicted bank robber was released from prison after her sentence was commuted by President Jimmy Carter.  What is her name?

Now that Congress has addressed the debt ceiling, sequestration appears more likely.

ASCOG: The Delta Nutrition program has been forced by budget reductions to reduce staff.  Still waiting news on sequestration.

How long should you postpone retirement?  Here are some tips.

Kaiser: 150 easy steps to cut Medicare by $9.4 trillion. 

A competitive bid program for durable medical equipment expected to bring big savings for Medicare.  Medicare is adjusting payments for dialysis drugs after an audit revealed millions in overspending.

The Medicare premium support plan is gaining momentum in Congress.

Howard Gleckman explains the right and wrong ways to confront elder abuse.

If Barbara Walters can get the chicken pox, what is keeping you from getting it?

Older Americans have more options for long term care than ever before.  Seniors are more likely to buy an iPad.  College towns are building more senior housing for older Americans.

Kaiser provides a timeline for implementation of the Affordable Care Act.  Also, here is an explanation of the independent payment advisory board.