ASCOG Advocate: July 31, 2013

Larisa Latynina in 2010.

On this date, in 2012, this Olympian broke a 48-year-old record for the greatest number of medals won at the Olympics.  The record was previously held by Larisa Latynina. 

What was the name of the Olympian who set the new record?

A Tampa man faces neglect charges in the death of his 82-year-old mother.

Green House homes look to replace nursing homes.

Chicago nursing home operators face kickback charges.  A Minnesota nursing home faces neglect charges in the death of a patient.  A Florida jury awards a son $1.2 billion in nursing home death case.

Health.com seeks to debunk the myths about multiple sclerosis.

Medicaid HMOs post strong earnings reports in Kansas.

A link has been found between taking blood pressure medicine and lower rates of dementia-related deterioration.

Obamacare receives credit for savings seniors on Medicare over $7 billion on prescriptions.

ASCOG Advocate: July 30, 2013

Sample Medicare card.

On this date, in 1965, the Social Security Act of 1965 was signed into law, establishing Medicare and Medicaid.

Who was the President who signed the Social Security Act?

Citing budget cuts, Utah's largest provider of mental health services removed 2,200 patients from its roster.

Medicaid managed care drives up profits for Kansas HMOs.

A New York nursing facility set a new trend in removing bias from policy about sexual expression.

A documentary takes a hard look at "memory care" facilities.

Feds put moratorium on new Medicare and Medicaid providers in high-fraud areas.

ASCOG Advocate: July 25, 2013

Drawing of the action.

On this date, in 1783, a peace agreement is reached ending the Siege of Cuddalore (Present day India).  That was the last action in the Second Anglo-Mysore War as well as this war between France and England.

What was the other war called?

Facebook proves to be an effective tool in finding missing elderly couple.

Caregivers find stress relief through art therapy.

Technology, like sensors to measure your heart rate, motion, gait and bathroom use, is available to help seniors age in place.

A nursing home operator who defrauded South Carolina Medicaid out of $1 million gets five years probation on a suspended sentence.

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration is looking into the large number of workplace injuries in long-term care facilities.

The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care has issued a request for public comment to the Consumer Product Safety Commission regarding bed rail safety in long-term care facilities.

ASCOG Advocate: July 24, 2013

The Kansas City slugger at bat.

On this date, in 1983, New York Yankees manager Billy Martin protested the amount of pine tar on the bat of a Kansas City player who just hit a go-ahead run.  The event became known as the "Pine Tar Incident."  

What was the name of the Kansas City player who hit the go-ahead home run?


A new study shows that echocardiograms, non-evasive ultrasounds of the heart, are overused.

The U.S. Department of Justice sues Florida for keeping children in nursing homes.

Lower levels of Vitamin D are linked to higher rate of disabilities according to a new study.

A California doctor was sentenced to only 3.5 years in prison for his role in defrauding Medicare out of nearly $3 million.  A Cleveland woman who bilked Ohio Medicaid out of $234,000 was sentenced to two years in prison.

ASCOG Advocate: July 23, 2013

A Landsat satellite from 1999.

On this date, in 1972, the Unites States launched Landsat 1.  It was the first of its kind.

What was the purpose of Landsat 1?

The grisly face of elder abuse, men held captive for their government checks.

A Texas state hospital is in danger of losing federal funding.

An Ohio man who defrauded the government out of over $1 million was sentenced to two years in prison.

Dementia rates decline abroad; America is a little murkier.

A new study outlines the positive benefits a spouse receives when physically caring for their loved-one.

With the sexual revolution generation entering long-term care, are nursing homes ready?

Washington state mental health services may be completely dismantled and rebuilt under a new federal directive.

Medicare speeds up plans for performance-based doctor pay.

Stem cells used to to cure blindness...in mice.

As caregivers are bogged down with caring for their loved ones, they miss out on opportunities to save money.

Sage advice in preventing dementia.

Video:  What to expect in the coming years with health insurance changes.

ASCOG Advocate: July 22, 2013

Pilot who flew
around the world.

On this date, in 1933, this Oklahoman became the first person to fly solo around the world, traveling 15,596 miles in 7 days, 18 hours and 45 minutes.  He, along with passenger Will Rogers, died in a plane crash two years later.

What was his name?

An over-comer of multiple sclerosis inspires engineers from the University of Delaware.

Medicare Advantage programs continue to grow despite Obamascare.

The Congressional Budget Office issued an estimate of $234 billion for the value of families caring for their loved ones 65 and older.

Social Security Disability applications drop while the unemployment rate for Americans with disabilities continues to rise.

Hysterectomy patients who avoid hormone therapy have higher likelihood of heart attack and death.

ASCOG Advocate: July 19, 2013

Bone reconstructed in 3-D.

On this date, in 1983, the first three-dimensional reconstruction of the human head using this device was published. 

What is the device called?
 
Health care providers continue to wait for the $50 million owed them from the now-defunct, Washington, D.C. managed-care firm D.C. Chartered Health Plan. Meanwhile, the president of an Aetna Medicaid company sings the praises of managed care.

Report highlights the need to address long-term services and supports.

University of Massachusetts medical researchers were able to turn off the genes for Down Syndrome in experiments using stem cells.

Many private insurers and state Medicaid agencies across the nation "impose sharp limits" on medications that help patients overcome opioid addiction.

Subjective complaints of cognitive decline, formerly dismissed, are now given needed attention as early signs of dementia.

An Affordable Care Act program aimed at reducing costs for Medicare is experiencing a high provider drop-out rate.

A Pew Research study shows the percentage of Americans who are caregivers rose from 30 to 39 percent.

ASCOG Advocate: July 18, 2013

Memorial to Col. Robert Gould Shaw,
the commanding officer of the 54th.

On this date, in 1863, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry unsuccessfully charged Fort Wagner, suffering major losses.  

What was unique about the Massachusetts 54th?

Few Medicaid doctors have received the pay raises promised under the Affordable Care Act.

Boomers boom while Gen Xr's bust in Social Security and Medicare.

Kaiser Infographic:  Medicaid spending and enrollment.
 
Online, self-tests for Alzheimer's prove unreliable.

A new UK study shows a decline in dementia rates.

Medicare explains how Part D works with other health insurance.

ASCOG Advocate: July 17, 2013

RMS Carpathia

On this date, in 1918, the RMS Carpathia was sunk by German SM U-55; five lives were lost.  The RMS Carpathia was best known for savings over 700 lives from another sinking ship.

What was the name of the ship for which Carpathia saved over 700 lives?

Stem cell research could have significant impact on leading cause of death in the U.S.

A new study in France suggests the longer you delay retirement the less likely you are to develop Alzheimer's disease.

NCOA:  22 tips to avoiding scams and swindles.

Video:  Stay healthy with Medicare's preventive benefits.

ASCOG Advocate: July 16, 2013

Parking meter circa 1940.

On this date, in 1935, the world's first parking meter was installed.  

In what city was the parking meter first installed?


Kentucky, with its rapid switch-over to private Medicaid, is dealing with a plethora of complaints.

Fifteen charged with Medicaid fraud in southern Illinois after charging Medicaid with bogus claims to pay caregivers who were either out-of-state or in prison.

Social Security benefits will extend to same-sex couples who were married legally under state laws, but will not extend to states who only honor civil unions.

Aging athletes in New York City are being honored by the Stickball Hall of Fame.

Caregivers who learn about Alzheimer's disease, and take advantage of the support and respite programs, are more likely to better cope with the progress of the disease.

With senior citizens expected to make up over a fifth of the state's population, Connecticut moves forward with newly formed Department of Aging.

Aggressive behavior in dementia patients often misunderstood.

In Glasgow, Scotland, a new idea turns to reality as the world's first "dementia dogs" start work with aging couples.

A Buffalo postal carrier admits to stealing over $400,000 from an elderly man to fund gambling habit.

Jamaica church raises $15.6 million to build 53-unit project to house seniors caring for their grandchildren.

Volunteers are needed for ASCOG's Medicare Assistance Program; email Vonn at salt_vo@ascog.org for more information.

ASCOG Advocate: July 15, 2013

Emil Kraepelin

On this date, in 1910, Emil Kraepelin's book Clinical Psychology was published.  In the book, Kraepelin gave a name to this disease, naming it after his colleague, Alois.

What is the name of the disease?

Cognitive losses in aging are no longer considered inevitable.

Stem cell researchers were able to grow functional inner ear components in a laboratory.

Medicare assures your right to a fast appeal if you feel your Medicare covered services are ending too soon.

The Long-term Care Pathfinder helps you map out a plan on aging in place.

With clear bias against Medicare, the American Association for Homecare issued a press release denouncing the use of certain diabetes test strips in Medicare's competitive bidding program.

San Francisco is preparing a bill for ballot that would mandate flexible work hours for caregivers.

A CNN reporter shares experiences learned from visiting a cutting-edge "dementia village" in the Netherlands.

ASCOG Advocate: July 12, 2013

The skyline of Windsor, Ontario
 as seen from Detroit.

On this date, over 200 years ago, the United States invaded Canada at Windsor, Ontario.  

What was the year in which this invasion occurred?

An Italian study points out an inverse link between Alzheimer's and cancer.

New gadgets are being programmed to alert caregivers when the risk of a fall increases for their loved ones.

Medicare is considering new billing options for doctors treating patients with multiple chronic conditions.

Medicare poll:  Seniors reject cuts.

Housing aging inmates continues to take a bite out of budgets.

ASCOG Advocate: July 11, 2013

On this date, in 1960, this book was published by Harper Lee, seen in this photo receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from George W. Bush.  

What was the name of her book for which she received this honor?

Expanding the gun buyer database draws criticism from mental health advocates.

Harvard Study:  Medicare Advantage patients just as likely to receive important preventative services such as diabetes, cholesterol and breast cancer screenings, as they would in non-HMO type plans, but this is more likely in an older, not-for-profit HMO than a newer, for-profit HMO.

A daunting task ahead for the U.S. Long-term Care Commission.

Alzheimer's tests to be restricted according to Medicare draft policy.

ASCOG Advocate: July 10, 2013

The man who flew around the world.

On this date, in 1938, this man set a world record by taking a 91-hour airplane flight around the world.

Who was he?


An editorial from the London-based Guardian suggests mental health should be part of the educational curriculum for children, in line with physical fitness.

Women may have to pay rates 40% higher than men for long-term care insurance.

Common houses to age in place growing in popularity among Boomers.

Latest Medicare scams are a new twist on an old con.

Alzheimer's caregivers need vacations, too.
Medicare volunteers are needed to prepare for open enrollment season.

Local sales tax provides a boost to Stephens County senior nutrition sites.

ASCOG Advocate: July 9, 2013

Mario

On this date, in 1981, Nintendo released this video game featuring Mario, the company's future mascot.

What was the name of the game?

Despite threats of lawsuit, the Kentucky Spirit managed care program pulled out of Kentucky.

The Leavitt report, which recommended expansion of Medicaid but without all the structures of Obamacare, was dismissed by an Oklahoman editorial as too costly.

Patient advocates in Florida are raising alarm at the state's plan to privatize Medicaid expansion.

Respect and sincerity the key for those nervous about interacting with people with disabilities.

If you have a complaint regarding the quality of care you receive from a Medicare provider, you can contact your local Medicare Assistance Program.

The Congressional Budget Office released a report in June showing the rising demand for long-term services and supports for the elderly.

ASCOG Advocate: July 8, 2013

A shuttle launch on its way to dock
with the International Space Station.

On this date, in 2011, the final mission of the U.S. Space Shuttle program was launched.

What was the name of the shuttle that flew the final mission?

NBA hopes are still alive for Chris Wright, despite Multiple Sclerosis.

The U.S. Justice Department settled a case where 55 hospitals had to pay back $34 million for charging Medicare inpatient rates when procedures could have been completed on outpatient basis.

Reading books and writing letters "keeps dementia at bay."

AARP:  Five signs of elder financial fraud.

Due to home and community-based Medicaid programs, and nursing homes seeking more lucrative patients, Long-term care stays by Medicaid senior is plummeting.

Kaiser: Viewpoints on Medicare.

Employers actively seek out persons with disabilities to broaden diversity.

ASCOG Advocate: July 5, 2013

The building in which George A. Hormel
started his business.

On this date, in 1937, Hormel introduced a new luncheon meat to American markets. 

What was the name of the meat?

Abuses ranging from improper restraints to "inhumane and undignified conditions" could land 21 employees of a Georgia nursing home in jail.

The Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General expects to lose 400 staffers charged with investigating health care fraud.

A significant number of American combat troops say they would seem weak if they sought out mental health services.

The long-term care insurance industry is shrinking as a result of low, long-term interest rates.

New Hampshire is gearing up for Medicaid managed care.

Two HIV patients who received stem cell treatments for cancer have since been free of HIV.

The National Council on Aging provides this graphic on navigating Medicare.

ASCOG Advocate: July 3, 2013

The Dunkerque

On this date, in 1940, the Atlantic fleet based at Mers el Kebir is bombarded by the British and three battleships were lost, the Dunkerque, Provence and Bretagne, along with 1,200 sailors.

To which country did the fleet belong?

Stem cell research leads to a dental breakthrough, regrowth of tooth material.

Heart patient, Virginia Anderer (84) returned to see her beloved Chicago after receiving a new procedure to close a leaky valve.

A Cubrian woman with Multiple Sclerosis has the help she needs from her black Labrador companion.

Video:  Fiddler's Annex provides a unique living space for grandparents raising their grandchildren.

WSJ:  What you need to know about long-term care insurance.

The complicated path of life settlements remains an options some states are considering.

In an attempt to rein in drug costs, Medicare is considering rate cuts for kidney dialysis centers.

China:  With an ancient religion that includes ancestral worship, China is requiring young people, who are distracted by modern life, to visit their parents.

ASCOG Advocate: July 2, 2013

A covered bridge with fall foliage.

On this date, in 1777, this American territory was the first to abolish slavery.

What was the name of the territory?

A young Briton battles Multiple Sclerosis in his own way, living life to the fullest.

Despite millions of dollars in lobbying efforts against the new Medicare bidding process for durable medical equipment, the Obama administration moves forward.

China passed a law requiring children to visit their elderly parents.

The Medicare Fraud Strike Force has charged more than 1,500 for defrauding the government out of over $5 billion.

Drinking green tea may protect the brain from the amyloid plaques that cause Alzheimer's Disease.

Check out the site makeover at longtermcare.gov.

The task force on Alzheimer's has released a report on improving care for highly affected populations.

ASCOG Advocate: July 1, 2013

Masaru ibuka, co-founder of Sony.

On this date, in 1979, Sony introduced this line of portable audio players.

What was the name of this successful line of products?

A proposed rule could reduce Medicare payments to home health agencies by $290 million in 2014.

America's Health Ranking's Senior Report ranks Oklahoma 46th in Senior Health.

The Better Business Bureau released a fraud alert related to Medical Alert Devices.

The Commission on Long-Term Care holds first meeting, faces daunting task.


A CVS-sponsored study shows Medicare patients are more likely to take their prescriptions timely.

Caregivers should enjoy summer travel, too.

Beneficiaries' out of pocket expenses will drop by $133 per month for Medicare diabetic supplies.

Relishing their long-term memories spanning six decades, one couple battles Alzheimer's together.