ASCOG Advocate: March 29, 2013

National Road marker for the
Great National Pike

On this date, in 1806, the construction of the Great National Pike was authorized, making it the first United States federal highway. 

What was the pike better known as?

Oklahoma House Bill 1552, a Medicaid reform bill, lies dormant since it was not heard by committee after it was pulled by the Senate author.

Senate Bill 237, exempting facilities under the Department of Veterans Affairs from the state provider fee, was passed by committee, now on to the full House.

Senate Bill 235, a measure placing authority over Veterans Centers under the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, is scheduled to be heard by a House committee.

Senate Bill 755, a bill pertaining to treatment advocates for persons receiving mental health or substance abuse treatment, and Senate Bill 970 pertaining to legislative updates on the Task Force on the Effects of Alzheimer's Disease,  are scheduled to be heard by the House Public Health Committee.

Senate Bill 587, protecting the rights of nursing home residents to use cameras to record their care, SB 592, creating an informal dispute resolution panel for assisted living centers, SB 900, requiring certain investigations in hospice centers, and SB 915, prohibiting discrimination in treatment, have been scheduled for the House Long Term Care and Senior Services Committee.  

A plan to build a voluntary army of caregivers made it on the whitehouse.gov website.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a new drug treatment for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.

Millions of dollars are at stake as Washington, D.C. is renegotiating with Medicaid HMO providers.

With anticipated savings of just one percent in the first year, California's Medicare-Medicaid dual eligible patients are beginning to transition to a new managed care program.

Using gift certificates to entice people to give their Medicaid information, Janie Vittini allegedly defrauded Florida Medicaid of over $3 million.

Tennessee chooses to reject Medicaid expansion when too many conditions are put on the state's plan to pay private insurance companies.

Patients are encouraged to blog about their illnesses.

"This American Life" gets disabilities wrong.

For most people, the days of "you work and then you retire" are over.

ASCOG Advocate: March 28, 2013

 Congressional Gold
Medal Recipient, 1936

On this date, in 1990, President George H.W. Bush posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to this man.  


What was his name?

The Oklahoma House Public Health Committee unanimously passed Senate Bill 272, calling for a feasibility study on Oklahomans eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. The bill only needs final approval by the full House before going to the Governor.

Senate Bill 629, authorizing the Oklahoma Department of Health to inspect veterans centers, was passed by the House Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, but was substituted by the committee.

Senate Bill 355, limiting guardianships, was passed by a House committee, but the enacting clause was stricken.

A Moore Girl Scout gives live-saving vials to seniors after her grandmother's seizure.

High tech legislation can help seniors age in place.

Study shows Louisiana could save millions through Medicaid expansion.

Kentucky's HMO-type, managed care program results in closure of mental health day treatment centers.

Mexican-Americans being treated for diabetes are more likely to develop dementia or memory loss.

Researchers are studying how music can trigger memories in dementia patients.

An octogenarian is going to prison for an elder abuse crime he committed against his centenarian mother.  

As the White House warns cutting Medicare would shift costs to private industry, the Center on Budget Policies and Priorities says the shifted costs will go to states and localities.

And ASCOG ombudsman supervisors trained two new ombudsmen volunteers to stand up for the rights of residents in long-term care facilities.

ASCOG Trains New Ombudsmen

Ms. Lola McCuiston and Ms. Linda Armstrong are now trained Ombudsmen; they took the free 2-day Ombudsman Volunteer training offered by ASCOG (Association of South Central Governments). You can also be a trained Ombudsman and become an advocate for long-term care residents’ rights, quality of care, and quality of life. Contact Ruben Sotelo, Ombudsman Supervisor, sote_ru@ascog.org  1-800-658-1466, ext 21.

ASCOG Advocate: March 27, 2013

Mary Mallon in 1910

On this date, in 1915, Mary Mallon was put in quarantine where she would remain for the rest of her life.  She was the first asymptomatic carrier of disease ever identified in the U.S.  As a cook, she was thought to have infected over 50 people.  Three died.

What is the name she came to be known by?

Oklahoma Senate Bill 549, adding exploitation of the elderly to RICO statutes, passed the House yesterday, but was amended. 

A Texas Senate bill is expected to save $8.5 million by overhauling Medicaid, including expanding HMO-type managed care plans to disabled persons.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that seniors saved over $6.1 billion as a result of changes made to Medicare through the Affordable Care Act.

Nearly 20 percent of Oklahoma's prison population are 50 years of age or older.

People who are isolated have a shorter life expectancy.

Oklahoma's Ray Walker warns the public about a scam using information from the Affordable Care Act.

The New York Times explores the cost of long-term care insurance. 

Seventy percent of those 65 and older will need long-term care while 70 percent of the public believe they will never need long-term care.

Texas nursing homes are reducing staff in response to budget cuts.

Andrea Michelle Tellison faces up to 210 years in prison and $5,250,000 in fines for 21 counts of Medicare and Medicaid fraud.

One couple cares for each other as they each have been diagnosed with different forms of Multiple Sclerosis.

By 2050, the number of Americans diagnosed with Alzheimer's is expected to nearly triple.

Dr. Carol Berman explains why having a loved one diagnosed with dementia does not have to be a death sentence for the caregiver.

ASCOG Advocate: March 26, 2013

Stonehenge, in Wiltshire
(Wikipedia commons)

On this date, in 1934, the United Kingdom introduced this mandatory testing requirement. This is a test you must re-take when you turn 70 years old in the U.K. 

What is the test?

House Bill 1745 passed a Senate committee with an amendment; the bill will require residents of assisted living centers to disclose third party medical providers and it will protect the facility from liability.

Senate Bill 587, the bill authorizing residents in long-term care facilities to use cameras to record how they are treated, is expected to be heard by the Oklahoma House Long Term Care and Senior Services Committee on April 2.

With an anticipated two-percent profit margin, private insurance companies hope to win big on Florida Medicaid. 

Alabama is considering plans to hand Medicaid over to private insurance companies by 2017.

Oklahoma's House Bill 1552, the bill to reform Medicaid, was not on the agenda for Monday's meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services.  If it fails to make it out of committee by April 4, the bill will die.

SB 237 and SB 527 have been scheduled to be heard before the House Committee on Appropriations and Budget on March 27 at 4:30 p.m.

A Florida family is campaigning to require nursing home residents to go through background checks, not just nursing home staff.
What to do when Social Security runs out.

Joan Sutton shares her thoughts on being an Alzheimer's widow.

ASCOG Advocate: March 25, 2013

Final successful launch of the first space shuttle.

On this date, in 1979, the first fully-functional, space shuttle orbiter is delivered to Kennedy Space Center to be prepared for its first launch.

What was the name of the first space shuttle?

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down a law last week that would have allowed the State of North Carolina to seize one-third of a medical malpractice settlement paid to a Medicaid recipient.

The Oklahoma House Public Health Committee is scheduled to hear Senate Bill 272 which authorizes a study of how the state handles low-income Medicare recipients who are also on Medicaid.

The National Community Pharmacists Association reports that discount drug plans are not saving Medicare money.

A woman born with physical and mental disabilities earned her black belt in taekwondo.

States are working on ways to comply with the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion requirements by using Medicaid dollars to pay for private insurance.

The Oklahoma House Judiciary Committee is scheduled to hear Senate Bill 355 limiting guardianship papers to fifteen months.

States are getting creative in spreading the word about healthcare exchanges, while the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is working to clear up confusion.

Some nutrition centers may close.

And, it is time for a national dialogue on long-term care for U.S. seniors.

ASCOG Advocate: March 22, 2013

Samuel Adams opposed the act.

On this date, in 1765, the British Parliament passed this law that levied taxes directly on the American colonies.  The law required that many printed materials be produced on special paper that was taxed by the British government.  This led to continued American dissent to British rule.

What was the name of the law?

Kaiser Foundation Health Plans are under the microscope as the California Department of Managed Health Care reports some patients were denied timely access to mental health care.

The Oklahoma Policy Institute reviewed a house bill (HB 1552) that will convert all of Soonercare to HMO-type managed care plans.

For some older veterans, their continued trauma from PTSD can be linked to dementia.

Pete Peterson, chairman of the Oklahoma Veterans Council, apologized to Oklahoma veterans for falling short in providing care for residents in the seven veterans centers across the state.

The Oklahoma House Veterans and Military Affairs Committee is scheduled to discuss a senate bill (SB 629) that would authorize the State Department of Health to conduct unannounced inspections on long-term care facilities currently operated by the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs. 

The House Public Health and Social Services Committee is scheduled to discuss Senate Bill 237 which will exempt  nursing facilities operated by the from the nursing home quality of care fee.  They will also look at Senate Bill 527 which will establish a pilot program of workshops to train caregivers of Oklahoma National Guard members suffering from PTSD.

Nine defendants, including two Medicare beneficiaries, were found guilty in a Medicare home-health, kick-back scheme.

A Brooklyn doctor logs-in to see patients online.

Stephens County sales tax will go up in April to support fire departments and senior nutrition centers.

Reluctant caregivers can feel guilt and shame over natural grief in their loss of freedom.

And the Oklahoma legislature honored Mabel Ruth "Mike" Stephanic, a nurse trapped behind enemy lines during World War II.

ASCOG Advocate: March 21, 2013

Persian miniature depicting 
Timur's campaign in India

On this day, in 1935, the leader of Persia asked the international community to start calling his country by its native name, meaning "Land of the Aryans."  


What was the new name of that country?

Some states are trying to deny Medicaid payments to emergency rooms based on whether they think the patients really needed that service.

Testimony to Congress reveals Social Security Disability in jeopardy of insolvency by 2016.

States are considering option of Medicaid expansion via private insurance.

California state regulators reprimanded a managed care HMO for excessive wait times in caring for mental health patients.

Medicare costs are slowing down, closing the federal budget gap.

What to do when early-onset Alzheimer's hits the caregiver.

Should I get long-term care insurance?  Here are some tips in reducing health care costs in retirement.

ASCOG Advocate: March 20, 2013

Mug shot of Giuseppe Zangara

On this date, in 1933, Giuseppe Zangara was executed in a Florida electric chair for the assassination of Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak and the attempted assassination of the President-elect of the United States. 

What was the name of the President-elect who was almost killed by this assassin's bullet?

The ASCOG Area Agency on Aging is sending an letter to area senior centers about the impact of sequestration cuts.

According to a new report, one in three seniors die with (not from) dementia.

Hidden cameras capture abuse of 31-year-old autistic man by caregivers.

The Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police announced that they endorse mental health checks on gun buyers.

Caregivers who neglect their own health are at increased risk for heart disease.

Journaling could help brain-injury survivors and their caregivers cope.

Despite the tsunami of Boomers, new nursing home construction is unlikely due to diminishing budgets and the changing face of long-term care.

Jalmer "Bo" Fallon and Haljean Gillispie

And we would like to say a special thank you to Jalmer "Bo" Fallon who served as our ASCOG AAA Advisory Council Chairperson.  Bo did a wonderful job through a stressful time for our agency.  Thanks, Bo!

Open letter to ASCOG area senior centers and focal points: March 19, 2013

This letter will be mailed out to ASCOG Area senior centers, nutrition sites and focal points.

Dear Senior Advocate:

We are expecting additional federal cuts to our local senior programs.  The cuts are a result of sequestration that is taking place at the federal level.  These cuts are smaller than previous cuts but will still take another bite out of programs that are already strained.  Because these cuts are permanent, we have to make permanent changes.

When we receive final notice of these cuts, we will begin the process of making adjustments.  One of the changes will require us to defund some nutrition sites that have been accustomed to our Older Americans Act (Title III) funding.  As a result, some sites will either close or have to convert to another funding stream, like the Community Expansion for Nutrition Assistance (CENA) grant.  We will start with Title III sites that are currently serving fewer than 25 meals per day.   Currently, the nutrition sites at Geronimo and Cement are in danger of losing Title III funding.

While we do not anticipate reductions in the state-funded CENA grant, we will see more senior centers using the grant and it will be further strained.

We will do our best to keep you advised.  I will, upon request, come to your senior center and give a presentation about these cuts and other factors impacting senior services.  I will also be happy to provide a question and answer session.  Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.

 

Also, we send out a regular e-newsletter called the ASCOG Advocate.  If you wish to receive this, please email me your request at jone_ke@asocg.org.

 Thanks!

 Kj

 

Ken Jones

Director

Supportive Services Division

Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments

ASCOG Advocate: March 19, 2013

The William Willett
Memorial Sundial

On this date, in 1918, the U.S. Congress established time zones and employed this technique designed to reduce evening usage of incandescent lighting.  This technique is still in use today in most of America, despite the fact energy savings studies have been contradictory. 

What is it?

Kaiser Health News released an article in 2012 about California's struggles to move the poorest and sickest individuals into the dual-eligible, managed care program.  The Oklahoma Senate is currently considering a bill (HB 1552) that would move not only dual-eligibles, but all Medicaid to risk-based (HMO type) managed care programs.  The Oklahoma bill would also replace the effective ADvantage managed care program with a private insurance run, risk-based, managed care program.

A handful of nursing homes have opened elder abuse shelters within their walls to provide emergency, short-term housing and health care services to victims.

The National Council on Disabilities released a plan on how to implement Medicaid managed care without harming Americans with disabilities.

The long goodbye, how caregivers of Alzheimer's patients can deal with the anticipation of loss and the grief over losing someone who is still there.

Boomers forced to work well beyond retirement age.

ASCOG Advocate: March 18, 2013

Flag of the 50th state.

On this date, in 1959, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill into law granting statehood to the state bearing this flag.  What is the name of the state? 


The Oklahoma House passed the Aging Prisoners Act (HB 1056) giving prisoners over the age of 65 an opportunity for early parole if they are deemed to not be a risk to public safety.

Kentucky health departments were forced to reduce services and lay off staff in the wake of a payment dispute with a risk-based, managed care company.

In Washington, the state only saved $60 million instead of the projected $361 million by switching Medicaid from fee-for-service to managed care.  The result was a budget shortfall of $301 million. In Washington, 52% of the Medicaid population is risk-based, managed care.

A new Florida health insurance plan may expand health coverage without expanding Medicaid.

Oklahoma employers could be taxed over $50 million as a result of the state's rejection of Medicaid expansion.

The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission has issued a plan they say can save $30 billion over the next five years.

Russell Wray Rodgers was sentenced to six years in prison for slamming a bathroom door into a 74-year-old man in Burger King.

Are Medicare costs really rising as quickly as the law says it will?

A music therapist reveals ways caregivers can use music.

An Alzheimer's cafe helps caregivers and patients cope through mutual support.

Brenda Kearns shares advice on how caregivers can make life less stressful for themselves and the one they care for.

ASCOG Advocate: March 15, 2013

A coastal view near Acadia National Park

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date, in 1820, this state became the 23rd U.S. state after seceding from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 

What is the name of this state?

The Josephine Meade Anti-Hunger Act (HB 1418) passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives, authorizing OKDHS to develop means for seniors to take home leftover food from nutrition sites.

Only 25% of Medicaid recipients are elderly or disabled. However, 66% of the cost goes to services to support elderly and disabled individuals.   

An Oklahoma PTSD bill passed the senate (SB 527) that would create training programs for military members and their caregivers.

One in five Americans were on Medicaid at least one month during 2011.

The Oklahoma House passed the Parole of Aging Prisoners Act (HB 1056).

One in three American counties are dying, including those in the plains states.

A 106-year-old Ohio woman finally receives her diploma.

ASCOG Advocate: March 14, 2013

Oswald's killer.

On this date, in 1964, a jury found this man guilty of killing Lee Harvey Oswald. 

What was the name of Oswald's killer?

House Bill 1552, as it is currently written, would replace existing managed care programs like ADvantage and replace them with risk-based, HMO type programs, potentially having a significant impact on existing Title III Nutrition programs that depend on ADvantage meal service contracts to make ends meet.

A new study funded by for-profit insurance companies reveals the benefits of Medicaid managed care.  Wikipedia has an article that explains the basics of Medicaid managed care.  This article by Kaiser is more in-depth.

Through House Bill 1021, the Oklahoma House declared that the federal law known as "Obamacare" is invalid.

The Oklahoma Senate sent a bill to the House of Representatives (SB 629) calling for nursing facilities currently run by the Department of Veterans Affairs to fall under the inspection authority of the Oklahoma Department of Health.

Due to recent budget cuts, the Army's ability to care for those with Post Traumatic Stress and other mental health needs will be compromised.

The resignation of the Lt. Governor of Florida has an Oklahoma connection.

In an effort to count the cost, caregiverslist.com compiled information on more than 18,000 long-term care facilities.

The San Antonio Express published an article about the Oklahoma Senate bill authorizing electronic monitoring in nursing homes.

Maine's governor is reconsidering his position on Medicaid expansion.

"Hiding From the Rain," is featured in this video dedicated to caregivers of Alzheimer's patients.

ASCOG Advocate: March 13, 2013

German and Austrian border police
dismantle a border post.
(German Federal Archive)

On this date, in 1938, Austria was joined to Germany. 

What was the word used by the Germans for this act of political unification?

The Oklahoma House approved a bill (HB 1552) that would authorize the Oklahoma Health Care Authority to develop managed-care plans for Medicaid programs.  The bill will go to the Senate next.

The Oklahoma Senate sent a bill (SB 272) to the House calling for an examination of dual eligible participants (those eligible for Medicaid and Medicare) in Oklahoma.  Here is the text of the bill.

The Oklahoma Secretary of Finance released a report showing that February collections bell below estimates by $20 million.

The VA says its counselors will not comply with New York's new gun law requiring reports of mental health patients who are likely to hurt themselves.

"Caregivers are more than twice as likely to experience chronic illness as non-caregivers."

ASCOG Advocate: March 12, 2013

Picking up a grain of salt
at the end of the march.

On this date, in 1930, Indians were led on a 200-mile march, known as the Salt March, in defiance of the British monopoly on salt. 

Who led them on this march of peaceful resistance?

The Oklahoma legislature is considering a bill that will lower requirements for long-term care administrators.

Local nonprofits like the Women's Haven, a domestic violence prevention center, are already feeling the pain of sequestration.

The Congressional Budget Office has lowered its projection for Medicaid spending by over $200 billion.

Cuts to government safet-net programs are likely to impact more than just low-income Americans.

The Medical Card Scam is still going strong around the country according to the FTC.

A horticulturist has developed techniques for people with disabilities to plant gardens.

If you are a financial caregiver helping a relative with a disability, here are some tips for you.

OKDHS Aging Services Division is seeking nomination for Achievement in Aging Awards.

ASCOG Advocate: March 11, 2013

President Roosevelt signing the act into law.

On this date, in 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed this act into law, allowing America to loan its war supplies to the Allies in Europe, and effectively ending the pretense of neutrality during World War II. 

What was the name of the act?

The Oklahoma Senate is considering a bill to authorize electronic monitoring for residents' rooms, Senate Bill 587.  Here is a copy of the current bill.  To find out how to contact your senator, click on this link.

A California jury awarded $23 million to the family of a woman who died of elder abuse in an assisted living center.

Daughters of an Oklahoma nursing home patient, who was abused by two aides, are advocating for the state Health Department to increase inspections and to speed up investigations.

A Chicago Public Schools cook is being held by police after her 90-year-old grandmother was found dead from neglect.

Counselors at a Narconon facility lose their certifications following the detoxification death of a patient.

A Medicare phone scam is targeting older Oklahomans.

Therapy dogs help reduce stress to women caregivers...in India.

OKDHS is seeking nominations for Achievement in Aging awards.

And, wine has an anti-aging properties.  Trust me on this one...

ASCOG Advocate: March 8, 2013

FBI mugshot
(public domain)

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date, in 1999, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the murder conviction of this man.  What is his name?

The Oklahoma House of Representatives approved an increase in the amount of unclaimed lottery prize money that is distributed to the Dept. of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

Insurance providers have launched ad campaigns to fight against Medicare Advantage pay cuts.

A St. Louis podiatrist miraculously held face to face visits with three patients in his Missouri office while at the same time vacationing in Vegas and Honolulu.  He was convicted of Medicare fraud.  

The Choosing Wisely campaign seeks to inform seniors on medical tests they should avoid.

AARP lists seven ways you can boost your 401(k) in preparation for retirement.

Caregivers do not have the luxury of saying, "That is not in my job description."

Hundreds of thousands of Americans caregiving for wounded veterans are suffering from their own health issues.

ASCOG Advocate: March 7, 2013

Sol Invictus
(public domain)

On this date, in 321, Emperor Constantine I decreed that this day, called Solis Invicti, would be a day of rest in the empire.  What day is Solis Invicti?

A House panel is considering options in reforming Medicare, including protecting fewer Americans from the changes.

The lethal CRE bacteria impacting nursing homes could spell the end of antibiotics according to the CDC.

With a shortage of mental health facilities in America, "jails are becoming the new asylums."

Governor Fallin signed a new order establishing a Blue Ribbon Panel for Developmental Disabilities.

The woman who died when a nursing home failed to give CPR did not want end of life intervention, according to the family.

If you are not fully prepared for retirement budgets, you are not alone.  Here are 15 ways to live on a more frugal budget.

Early diagnosis of Alheimer's is important for spouses who transition from partner to caregiver.

ASCOG Advocate: March 6, 2013

Announcing the death of President Kennedy
November 22, 1963

On this date, in 1981, this broadcasting legend signed off of the CBS Evening News for the last time.  What was his name?

Paul Ryan is floating the idea of changing the Medicare age, balancing ideology against pragmatism.  Conflicts of interest may impact millions in spending of federal dollars on Medicare.  Finding a doctor who accepts Medicare is becoming more difficult.  

Baby Boomers are dipping into their retirement accounts a little too early.

A new study reveals that children with ADHD are likely to have a similar disorder in adulthood.

Every 68 seconds, someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer's; here are some tips to caregivers.

ASCOG Advocate: March 5, 2013

Swedish book "Behind Russia's iron curtain"
1923 (public domain)

On this date, in 1946, in reference to the this world leader used the phrase "Iron Curtain" in his speech at Westminster College, Missouri.  What was his name?

The policy of a California nursing home against performing CPR is highlighted by the death of patient. 

Undercover grandma catches Medicare fraud on tape - ABC Nightline.

More states are compromising on Medicaid expansion.

Oklahoma seniors are failing to take advantage of a property tax break.

Up to 30% of middle-class workers are at risk of retiring in poverty.

Good Housekeeping shares their top safety product choices for seniors.

People with disabilities shares the spotlight at the New York Disabilities Film Festival.

Carol Child shares the challenges of caregiving for a dementia patient in her new book.

Stretching in bed may be the most important exercise you can do for falls prevention.

ASCOG Advocate: March 4, 2013

Circa 1840
(Public domain)

On this date, in 1789, the first Congress of the United States met in this city.  What is the name of the city in which they met?

President Obama officially ordered the sequestration cuts.  

Sequestration will impact the number of seniors who will receive home-delivered meals.

Republican leaders are looking at Medicare reform in the wake of sequestration.  Meanwhile, Medicare doctors' pay will be cut.

Hospital re-admissions for Medicare patients is on the decline.

The "sandwich generation" finds support from other caregivers' stories.

Skype is revolutionizing mental health care by reaching beyond the walls of psychotherapists' offices.

ASCOG Aging Advocate: March 1, 2013

Hotel and complex in the
Foggy Bottom area of Washington D.C.
(Indutiomarus - public domain)

Good morning!  It's Friday!

On this date, in 1974, seven men were indicted for their role in the break-in of this hotel as well as conspiracy to obstruct justice.  What is the name of this hotel?

Are sequestration cuts overstated?  Here's a breakdown by federal agency on how they will address the impact of sequestration.

Rhode Island legislators consider a bill to put cameras in nursing homes.

Scientist have difficulty in defining "normal aging."

A large mental health study reveals a genetic connection between five mental illnesses.

Can pessimists actually live longer?