ASCOG Advocate: October 31, 2013

Carl G. Fisher who
conceived of the highway.

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

What is the name of the highway?

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

Mississippi Medicaid director calls for expansion of managed care.

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

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

Kathy Greenlee discusses the growing problem of elder abuse.

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

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

Six reasons to choose a new Medicare Part D plan.

Consumer Reports examines the world of anti-aging supplements.

California sued over lagging nursing home investigations.

The National Center on Senior Transportation has a new website.

ASCOG Advocate: October 30, 2013

Creator of the Mercury
Theatre on the Air programs.

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

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

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

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

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

Got an hour?  Give it back to seniors.

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

ASCOG Advocate; October 29, 2013

Discovery launch.

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

What is the name of the astronaut?

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

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

Medicare fraud risk is higher during open enrollment.

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

ASCOG Advocate: October 28, 2013

A caterpillar tractor widens the roadway.

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

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

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

What does the latest budget deal mean for seniors?

SNAP benefits are expected to decrease.

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

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

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

ASCOG Advocate: October 25, 2013

St. George's.

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

What is the name of the country?

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

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

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

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

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

ASCOG offices are closed today for annual safety training.

ASCOG Advocate: October 24, 2013

The Rogers Center in 2004.

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

What was the name of the team?

More Oklahoma men are becoming caregivers.

Sleep disturbances have been linked to Alzheimer's disease.

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

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

Victims of elder abuse suffer in silence.

ASCOG Advocate: October 23, 2013

An early edition of the
magazine that first published
their story.

On this date, in 1958, this fictional race of dwarves first appeared in the story La flute à six schtroumpfs.  They were later popularized in a Hanna Barbera animated cartoon series.

What is the name of this race of dwarves?

The U.S. Senate is seeking a federal review of nursing home trust funds.

In light of the new health care exchanges, should the Medicare eligibility age be raised?

A disproportionate number of persons with disabilities suffer or die in disasters because of a lack of attention to their needs.

An Alzheimer's victim leaves a legacy of love.

A California judge was sentenced to five years probation for financial exploitation.

More than half of family caregivers lose income due to the demands of providing care.

ASCOG Advocate: October 22, 2013

A soviet missile in Moscow.

On this date, in 1962, U.S. President John F. Kennedy, after internal counsel from his predecessor, announced that he had ordered a Naval quarantine of Cuba.

What was the name of his predecessor?

Hospital patients classified as "observation status" may receive surprise out-of-pocket expenses.

A 79-year-old triathlete provides inspiration.

Study:  Caregivers have a lower death rate than non-caregivers.

Modifying patients' behaviors key to improving heart health.

ASCOG Advocate: October 21, 2013

Attacking Japanese bomber.

On this date, in 1944, a Japanese plane carrying a 200-kilogram bomb attacked the HMAS Australia.  It was the first attack of its kind in World War II.  

What kind of attack was it?

The Oklahoma Senate is examining ways to reform Medicaid through "market-based" managed care.

Survey:  Eight-six percent of Medicare participants were confused about how health care reform would impact their Medicare benefits.

Elder Financial Protection Network:  At least one in five seniors exploited.

Residents at Oklahoma Veterans Centers were granted a reprieve on smoking ban.

Shopping for the best Medicare Part D program is critical.

The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the Medicare fraud conviction of an Oklahoma City man.

ASCOG Advocate: October 18, 2013

The flag of the new state.

On this date, in 1867, the United States took possession of this state after purchasing it from Russia for $7.2 million.

What is the name of the new state?

If you live with someone who has dementia, there may be times you have to deal with aggressive behavior.

While caregiving is stressful; sometimes benefits outweigh the negative toll.

Fake service animals pose a threat to businesses and those living with disabilities.

There is a likely payoff for those who take a second look during Medicare Open Enrollment.

Caregiver sentenced to two years in prison for embezzling $22,700.

ASCOG Advocate: October 17, 2013

The second agency's headquarters
in Washington, D. C.

On this date, in 1979, the Department of Education Organization Act was signed into law creating the U.S. Department of Education as well as this agency which currently oversees the funding and delivery of services under the Older Americans Act.

What is the name of the second agency?

Governor Fallin orders state agencies to not use state dollars to replace federal monies lost during the government shutdown.

A deal has been reached in the U.S. Senate to end the government shutdown; House expected to follow suit.

Trust fund raiders; taking advantage of the most vulnerable Americans.

Passengers with disabilities complain of degrading searches by airport security.

Medicare Advantage and Medigap are not the same.

"There is no health without mental health," the World Health Organization recognizes the importance of mental health treatment to a healthy world.

Myths and facts about Obamacare and Medicare.

A filmmaker chronicles his decline due to multiple sclerosis.

Heart attack patients who are slow in seeking treatment need more time to return to work and are more likely to retire early.

ASCOG Advocate: October 16, 2013

ASCOG Area Agency on Aging

On this date, in 2012, the ASCOG Area Agency on Aging launched it's inaugural blog post designed to help support and educate advocates in the field of aging and disability services.

What was the name first given to the blog?

The National Council on Aging advises Medicare beneficiaries to wait until after the government shutdown to update their Medicare enrollment.

Study finds that states who increase the number of meals served to seniors see more than enough in Medicaid savings to offset the additional cost of the meals.

Americans are waiting longer to retire, some never leaving the workforce.

Medicare Advantage plans continue to succeed despite changes from the Affordable Care Act.  Medicare beneficiaries continue to be confused by the new health care exchanges.

As the government seeks to cut back on overspending, mental health services are usually first on the chopping block.  ACA changes look to benefit persons with mental illness.

ASCOG Advocate: October 15, 2013

Title card to the I Love Lucy show.

On this date, in 1951, the first episode of I Love Lucy aired on CBS.  In 2002 the show ranked the "second best TV show of all time."

What was name of the television show ranked first?

U.S. Senate leaders have high hopes that an agreement will soon be reached to end the partial government shutdown. There is less certainty in the U.S. House.

If you take medications for diabetes, COPD, Alzheimer's or heart disease, you need to comparison shop for the best Medicare Part D plan.

The Oklahoma Policy Institute released their Oklahoma Poverty Profile for 2012 (pdf).
U.N. survey shows the needs of people with disabilities are neglected during disasters.

ASCOG Advocate: October 14, 2013

Milne's son with his bear.

On this date, in 1926, A. A. Milne first published the children's book Winnie-the-Pooh.  She named Pooh after her son's teddy bear.

What was the name of her son?

DHS is concerned about continued delays in federal funding due to the shutdown.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew warned Congress that Social Security checks would be among the first things halted if the debt ceiling is not raised.

Kaiser:  Summary of key findings for Medicare Part D in 2014.

Long Island Rail Road retirees were found guilty of faking disabilities in $1 billion "gravy train" scam.

ASCOG offices are closed today.  Hope you have a great week!

ASCOG Advocate: October 11, 2013

The original 1975 cast.

On this date, in 1975, this sketch comedy/variety show opened on NBC, hosted by George Carlin.

What is the name of the show?

"Octogenarian invasion" listed in top five global health concerns. 

Study:  Living with stress may increase changes of having Alzheimer's later in life.

Eleven things you should never say to a caregiver.

Nursing homes struggle with a proper response to dementia and sex.

ASCOG Advocate: October 10, 2013

The bridge in
Lake Havasu City

On this date, in 1971, this bridge that originally spanned the River Thames was officially reopened in Lake Havasu City, Arizona after being sold, dismantled and moved to the U.S.

What is the name of the bridge?

Study shows that care receivers base satisfaction with their caregiver on technical skills and especially people skills.

NCOA:  How the government shutdown impacts aging programs.

Obamacare And You:  If you have Medicare...

"Death rate holds steady at 100%."  How to discuss end of life with your loved one.

ASCOG Advocate: October 9, 2013

Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman
performing the title song

On this date, in 1986, this Andrew Lloyd Webber musical had its first performance in London.  It centered on a mysterious, disfigured, musical genius.

What was the name of the musical?

AARP looks at how four people decided when to begin taking social security benefits.

Oklahoma Department of Human Services presents "Domestic Violence:  the Hidden Epedemic," October 29.

Mississippi woman charged in multi-million dollar Medicare fraud scheme bought 20 cars since 2009.

Should the Alzheimer's patient move in with you?

The Army is expanding a mental health program that has yet to show benefits to soldiers with PTSD.

Chickasha's Women's Resource Center prepares the community for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

ASCOG Advocate: October 8, 2013

A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol
officer talks to V.P. Dick Cheney,
Sen. Saxby Chambliss and
Mr. Michael Chertoff.

On this date, in 2001, President George W. Bush announced the establishment of this new federal agency in response to the 9/11 attacks.  

What is the name of the new agency?

Social Security and Medicare to be in GOP focus when discussing "grand bargain" to address debt limit.

Sen. Tom Coburn is investigating the questionable decisions made by an Oklahoma administrative law judge who makes decisions on Social Security disability cases.

A study funded by the United Nations ranks the best and worst countries for the well-being of aging populations.  

WSJ:  Closing the doughnut hole and other Obamacare questions.

A hotel clerk was fired for needing an oxygen tank.

The University of Central Oklahoma will offer a mental health first aid workshop October 17.

ASCOG Advocate: October 7, 2013

Various photos from the
War on Terror.

On this date, in 2001, the U.S. invaded this country in retaliation for the 9/11 terrorist attacks.  

What is the name of the country the U.S. invaded?


Millions of dollars on hold to D.C. Medicaid providers due to partial government shutdown.

Medi-Cal cuts payments for services in wake of a million new Medicaid participants.

The guilt of finding new love during the long goodbye.

Family conflicts with adult stepchildren complicate the role of family caregivers of dementia patients.

Amputee biker serves as reminder that persons with disabilities can be overcomers.

ASCOG Advocate: October 4, 2013

Gutzon Borglum

On this date, in 1927, Gutzon Borglum began sculpting this U.S. National Monument.  Access to that monument closed on October 1 due to a government shutdown.

What is the name of the monument?

An Illinois nursing home was cited for leaving a wheelchair-bound man at a truck stop because he refused to submit to a background check.

The FDA approved a stem cell trial treatment for chronic spinal cord injury.

Governor Fallin promoted "Wear Purple Day" to support victims of domestic violence.

ASCOG Advocate: October 3, 2013

The Anchor Bar (2007)

On this date, in 1964, the first of this cuisine was produced at the Anchor Bar in western New York.  

What is the name of the cuisine?

Effects of the government shutdown are felt in southwest Oklahoma.

What you need to know about Medicare, open enrollment and the effects of Obamacare.

A new San Francisco law, giving flexible work schedule rights to parents and caregivers, went into effect Tuesday.

Multiple sclerosis cases have increased ten percent worldwide.  

Exercise is as effective as drugs when it comes to heart disease and pre-diabetes.

ASCOG Advocate: October 2, 2013

Bill of Rights

On this date, in 1789, George Washington sent the constitutional amendments known as the Bill of Rights to the states for ratification.

Who is considered the "first author" of the Bill of Rights?

As Congress digs in on healthcare ideology, the federal government deals with 800,000 fewer workers, or what Fox News calls a "slimdown."

According to new research, people aged 65 to 90 are significantly less likely to make "rational decisions regarding money."

What's the difference between Medicare and Medigap?

More than two-thirds of Americans are anxious about how to pay for long-term care.

Christian Helping Hands continues to grow as it serves the poor of Comanche.

ASCOG Advocate: October 1, 2013

Various denominations of
Federal Reserve notes.

On this date, in 1957, these words first appeared on U.S. paper currency.

What are the words?

Congressional showdown leads to government shutdown.

Mail, Social Security and Medicare benefits will continue despite shutdown.

Arkansas becomes the first state to win approval to expand Medicaid through private insurance companies.

Health insurance marketplace set to open in Oklahoma.

Many U.S. nursing homes operate without adequate sprinkler systems.