The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is responding to a data breach at Healthcare Management Solutions, LLC (HMS), a subcontractor of ASRC Federal Data Solutions, LLC (ASRC Federal), that may involve Medicare beneficiaries’ personally identifiable information (PII) and/or protected health information (PHI). No CMS systems were breached and no Medicare claims data were… Read more »

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced that all public transit buses will be fare-free across Connecticut through March 31, 2023. A previous policy signed by Governor Lamont made buses fare free from April 1, 2022 through June 30, 2022, but that was extended to December 1st in a budget passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor on May… Read more »

Governor Lamont Announces Release of Nearly $8.5 Million in Additional Resources To Connect Those Experiencing Homelessness With Support Posted on November 10, 2022 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that his administration is releasing nearly $8.5 million additional aid to connect those experiencing homelessness with support services – including housing, food, and mental… Read more »

Overview Connecticut Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) ***Applications for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) 2022-203 Program Year are being accepted starting September 1, 2022.*** Households with annual income at or below 60 percent of the state median income can qualify for this one-time water assistance… Read more »

You can apply online, by phone, by email, by mail, or in person at your local Community Action Agency (CAA). Find your local CAA in the table below. Apply online: Online applications are now open. Click here to get started.  Apply by phone: Call your local Community Action Agency and request assistance applying for CEAP over the phone… Read more »

Please join the Governor’s Council for Women and Girls’ Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity and Workforce Equity, Financial Literacy Workgroup on Monday, November 14, 2022 for a program focused on innovative approaches to financial education.  See link below to register and join the program! A FINANCIAL FIRESIDE CHAT Monday, November 14, 2022, from 12-1:00 p.m Join… Read more »

Medicare Open Enrollment: Tips to Protect Yourself and Get the Coverage that Serves You Every year during Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15th to December 7th, millions of beneficiaries have the opportunity to switch or drop their current plan and enroll in a new plan that better suits their health care needs. When… Read more »

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that checks totaling $23.9 million are being distributed this week to those who applied for the Connecticut Renters’ Rebate Program. Approximately 45,000 residents in the state will be receiving an average rebate of $540. The Office of Policy and Management (OPM), which administers the program, is required… Read more »

Facilitating Virtual Training Sessions: Tips & Tools to Reduce Glitches 10/27/2022 @1PM ET Do your presentations/trainings in the virtual space convey the message you want? Join AARP Connecticut, Dr. Lauren Tucker, the State of Connecticut Department of Aging & Disability Services and participants from across the country for this FREE, virtual 2-hour training on Thursday,… Read more »

The Assumptions We Hold: Rethinking Commonly-Held Beliefs among Elder Justice Professionals Coalition for Elder Justice in CT Virtual Symposium by AARP CT REGISTRATION:  https://aarp.cventevents.com/CEJCOct182022 Exploring assumptions we may have can positively impact our experience in the elder justice space.  Join the Coalition for Elder Justice in CT (CEJC), AARP CT, and attendees from around the country… Read more »

Join AARP Fraud Watch Network CT Volunteer Byron Peterson as he hosts fellow AARP CT FWN volunteer Barbara Munck and Coalition for Elder Justice in CT Co-Chair, Lara Stauning for our next Coffee & Tea with AARP – Fighting Fraud Coalition Style!  You can view it on our @AARPCT Facebook or YouTube Channel.  You can… Read more »

Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for approximately 70 million Americans will increase 8.7 percent in 2023, the Social Security Administration announced today. On average, Social Security benefits will increase by more than $140 per month starting in January. At the same time, most Medicare beneficiaries will not have an increase in their… Read more »

Free Webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Advocating for Residents with Disabilities 10/7/22, 12-1 PM (rescheduled from 9/26/22). Attorneys Rachel Mirsky and Deborah Dorfman from Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) will provide an overview of the role of the DRCT. Learn about what DRCT does and how DRCT can help disabled individuals. They will: highlight DRCT’s role in conservatorships and… Read more »

Free Webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Advocating for Residents with Disabilities 10/7/22, 12-1 PM (rescheduled from 9/26/22). Attorneys Rachel Mirsky and Deborah Dorfman from Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) will provide an overview of the role of the DRCT. Learn about what DRCT does and how DRCT can help disabled individuals. They will: highlight DRCT’s role in conservatorships and… Read more »

 Falls Prevention Awareness Week is a national health campaign observed on the first week of Fall to increase awareness that falls are preventable. Falls are one of the major causes of serious injuries and deaths for older adults, and the long-lasting effects of a fall are not just physical but also economic and emotional. The… Read more »

Virtual U: Assistive Technology for Access Training – 9/29/2022 @1PM ET Learn how technology can increase access for individuals you serve in your professional and personal lives. Join AARP Connecticut, Dr. Lauren Tucker, the State of Connecticut Department of Aging & Disability Services and participants from across the country for this FREE, virtual 2-hour training… Read more »

Posted on August 31, 2022 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the application period for the 2022-2023 winter season of the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) will begin on September 1, 2022. The program helps Connecticut residents – including both homeowners and renters – with the costs associated with heating their homes.… Read more »

Please see the latest educational videos offered by the Fighting Fraud with AARP CT educational series!  Feel free to share through your networks as a way to keep people up-to-date on the latest scams!  Fighting Fraud with AARP CT – January https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g78IEQY21gk&t=48s Fighting Fraud with AARP CT – February  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQFUtyce5eg Fighting Fraud with AARP CT… Read more »

Extreme Heat and Cooling Centers A helpful reminder from Connecticut’s Infoline 211…. “Throughout the summer months Connecticut may experience periods of extreme heat including excessively high temperatures and high levels of humidity. It is recommended that during periods of extreme heat that Connecticut residents take precautions and stay informed.   “Excessively high temperatures can be dangerous… Read more »

Virtual U: Assistive Technology for Access Training – 9/29/2022 @1PM ET Learn how technology can increase access for individuals you serve in your professional and personal lives. Join AARP Connecticut, Dr. Lauren Tucker, the State of Connecticut Department of Aging & Disability Services and participants from across the country for this FREE, virtual 2-hour training… Read more »

On Saturday, July 16, 2022, the U.S. transitioned the 10-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to 988 – an easy-to-remember three-digit number for 24/7 crisis care. The lifeline, which also links to the Veterans Crisis Line, follows a three-year joint effort by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and… Read more »

Virtual U: Assistive Technology for Access Training – 9/29/2022 @1PM ET Learn how technology can increase access for individuals you serve in your professional and personal lives. Join AARP Connecticut, Dr. Lauren Tucker, the State of Connecticut Department of Aging & Disability Services and participants from across the country for this FREE, virtual 2-hour training… Read more »

We are reaching out to share several job opportunities at the State of Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability that have just been posted on the Department of Administrative Services JobAps website. The State Unit on Aging is recruiting for multiple positions. Social Services Program Manager: Click Here to See Job Posting, Closing Date 7/19/22… Read more »

The Assumptions We Hold: Rethinking Commonly-Held Beliefs among Elder Justice Professionals 2022 Coalition for Elder Justice in CT Virtual Symposium by AARP CT Exploring assumptions we may have can positively impact our experience in the elder justice space. Join the Coalition for Elder Justice in CT (CEJC), AARP CT and attendees from around the country… Read more »

OAK HILL’S SMART HOME ON WHEELS (SHOW)Oak Hill’s New England Assistive Technology (NEAT) Center connects people with the latest assistive technology, helping them effectively perform many tasks independently, overcome obstacles, and enhance their quality of life. Smart technology is empowering people with disabilities and aging adults by making homes more accessible. New smart home tools… Read more »

Tests for people who are blind or have low vision Testing is a critical part of the fight against COVID-19, but some people who are blind or have low vision face barriers using many of the COVID-19 tests on the market.  On June 23, 2022, the Biden-Harris Administration launched a new initiative to expand the… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Office of the Probate Court Administrator, and the Elder Law Section of the CT Bar Association are sponsoring the next “Lunch & Learn” Webinar on 6/24 at 12 PM. Attorney James Welch will provide an overview of Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT), the “Protection & Advocacy System for… Read more »

Monday, June 13th- 5:30 PM, Bluff Point State Park, Groton Help us raise awareness about Elder Abuse! This will be the final hike of our Walk for WEAAD event for 2022. Join us to wrap up the event by walking 3.6-mile loop trail that offers beautiful views of Long Island Sound! Generally considered an easy… Read more »

What started as a pilot internship last year with two Eastern Connecticut State University students has evolved into a statewide collaboration that may well serve as a national model for the emerging field of police social work. The Social Work and Law Enforcement (SWLE) Project, spearheaded by Eastern’s Social Work Program and the Willimantic Police… Read more »

Comments On Mandatory Staffing Ratios for Nursing Homes Due to CMS by June 10 As part of the annual proposed rule updating Medicare Part A payments to skilled nursing facilities, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) includes a Request for Information about mandatory staffing levels for nursing homes.[1] CMS asks 17 questions about… Read more »

Thursday, June 9th- 5:30 PM, Day Pond State Park, Colchester Help us raise awareness about Elder Abuse! Explore this 3.2-mile loop trail near Colchester, Connecticut. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 23 min to complete. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. We will meet at the… Read more »

Tuesday, May 31st- 5:30 PM, Putnam River Trail, Putnam Head out on this 3.0-mile out-and-back trail near Putnam, Connecticut. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 4 min to complete. This is a popular trail for trail running and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times… Read more »

As the number of evictions in Connecticut spikes, the state legislature has set aside $5 million for eviction prevention programs through the Department of Housing, including an expanded “rent bank” that aims to help tenants and landlords handle missed rent and avoid an eviction. For more, read the Connecticut Mirror article.

Monday, May 9th, 5:30 PM- West Hartford Reservoir #6 Trail, West Hartford Rack up some serious steps and join us for this 3.8-mile loop trail in West Hartford. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 22 min to complete. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. Meet in… Read more »

Posted on April 29, 2022 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced the launch of a new online application for heating and water assistance programs that help income-eligible families from Connecticut pay their utility bills. Eligible residents can now apply for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program… Read more »

 Let’s build a National Elder Justice Movement, Through Movement! Walk for WEAAD campaign begins May 1st, on the first day of Older Americans Month, and runs through June 15th. Sign up now online or through the Walker Tracker app, so you’re ready to walk, run, or do any other activity to show your support for… Read more »

Are you looking for information on accessing Medicare/Medicaid or other assistance for older adults from the Ukraine coming to the U.S.? You can find information on the State of CT’s website Refugee Assistance Program (ct.gov) or contact your local Area Agency on Aging.

The Journey to Livable Communities: Inclusive, Innovative, Intergenerational   Explore innovative approaches to creating livable communities where you live, learn and work.  Join AARP CT and attendees from across the country for this FREE, Virtual conference taking place on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at 2:00 PM ET-4:30 PM ET.  AARP CT and Masonicare host the… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT is partnering with the Connecticut Council of Famly Services Agencies to share important information about services available to older adults in CT who have been victims of crime and are seeking justice. This course is designed to educate participants about, and promote awareness of, the Victims of Crime… Read more »

This Friday at Noon (4/22) AARP is launching our “Fighting Fraud with AARP CT” third show featuring the topic Home Improvement/Contract Scams. Here’s how you can support, promote and engage on this from an individual and organizational perspective go to: https://www.facebook.com/events/5471567152874229 A Big Thank you to all who have participated in this month’s show to… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, and the Office of the Probate Court Administrator collaborated to continue the free “Lunch & Learn” webinar series for professional conservators in 2022. Below is the information and registration for the April webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Medicare Coverage… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, and the Office of the Probate Court Administrator collaborated to continue the free “Lunch & Learn” webinar series for professional conservators in 2022. Below is the information and registration for the April webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Medicare Coverage… Read more »

Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Medicare Coverage for SNF Care Join us to learn or refresh your knowledge about Medicare coverage for Nursing Facility Care. Attorneys Kathleen Holt and from the Center for Medicare Advocacy will provide an overview of Medicare coverage for skilled nursing facility care, tips for advocating for continued Medicare coverage, and advice… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT is partnering with the Connecticut Council of Famly Services Agencies to share important information about services available to older adults in CT who have been victims of crime and are seeking justice. This course is designed to educate participants about, and promote awareness of, the Victims of Crime… Read more »

The Journey to Livable Communities: Inclusive, Innovative, Intergenerational   Explore innovative approaches to creating livable communities where you live, learn and work.  Join AARP CT and attendees from across the country for this FREE, Virtual conference taking place on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at 2:00 PM ET-4:30 PM ET.  AARP CT and Masonicare host the… Read more »

Explore innovative approaches to creating livable communities where you live, learn and work.  Join AARP CT and attendees from across the country for this FREE, Virtual conference taking place on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at 2:00 PM ET-4:30 PM ET.  AARP CT and Masonicare host the 4th Annual Livability Conference in collaboration with five of our Age-Inclusive… Read more »

      Beginning, March 31, 2022, Generations is no longer offering the outdoor COVID-19 PCR Testing Clinics at any of our sites, for the general community. Instead, we are providing all of our patients with FREE COVID-19 Rapid Self Testing Kits that can be done easily in your home or elsewhere. This includes patients seen… Read more »

This conversation takes you through virtual connections for your professional and personal development – in front of and behind the camera – to ensure your making the right impact on your virtual audience.  This is a 6-part training each Thursday @12PM, Mar. 24 – Apr. 28, 2022.  3/24/2022 Tackling Imposter Syndrome Through the Help of… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, and the Office of the Probate Court Administrator collaborated to continue the free “Lunch & Learn” webinar series for professional conservators in 2022. Below is the information and registration for the March webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Connecticut Standards… Read more »

Recent Solicitation Scams Target Medicare-Eligible Adults A recent report in The Roanoke Times highlighted a growing vulnerability in the Medicare system – suspicious phone solicitations targeting potential beneficiaries as they prepare to sign up for Medicare.[1] These calls specifically target Medicare-eligible adults and purportedly offer to assist them with Medicare options and the application process.… Read more »

Register HERE

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, and the Office of the Probate Court Administrator collaborated to continue the free “Lunch & Learn” webinar series for professional conservators in 2022. Below is the information and registration for the April webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Medicare Coverage… Read more »

FEBRUARY 28, 2022•STATEMENTS AND RELEASES All people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and to have access to quality medical care. And in no case should a health care facility be causing a patient harm. The President believes we must improve the quality of our nursing homes so that seniors, people with disabilities,… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, and the Office of the Probate Court Administrator collaborated to continue the free “Lunch & Learn” webinar series for professional conservators in 2022. Below is the information and registration for the March webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Connecticut Standards… Read more »

The State Unit on Aging has released the 2022 Benefits Quick Guide, updated 03/10/22. Download copies of the Benefits Quick Guide for 2022 below and share widely.

New Older Americans Month Materials Available!! Every May, ACL leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM). In 2022, ACL will be focusing on aging in place – how older adults can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible. The 2022 theme is Age My… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, and the Office of the Probate Court Administrator collaborated to continue the free “Lunch & Learn” webinar series for professional conservators in 2022. Below is the information and registration for the March webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Connecticut Standards… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT is partnering with the Connecticut Council of Famly Services Agencies to share important information about services available to older adults in CT who have been victims of crime and are seeking justice. This course is designed to educate participants about, and promote awareness of, the Victims of Crime… Read more »

Upcoming Changes to 3G Wireless Network Did you know that service providers will be shutting down their 3G networks beginning in early 2022? The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has developed a consumer guide with more information on the 3G shutdown. Anticipated shutdown dates by provider include: AT&T = on 2/22/22; TMobile/Sprint = between March-July; and… Read more »

Text of Letter being sent to affected individuals: Under federal law, HUSKY D provides Medicaid coverage for income-eligible adults without dependentchildren who are between the ages of 19 and 64 and not enrolled in Medicare. Our records show thatyou receive Medicare. Ordinarily, we would have stopped your HUSKY D coverage as soon as youbecame eligible… Read more »

   Independence   February 2022   AOASCC News & Notes     Spotlight on Volunteers: A Volunteer at heart – The Doris Blackmon Story   Harris & Tucker School Day Care has been a Foster Grandparent site for over 30 years and this is where you will find Ms. Blackmon.   Doris Blackmon, was born… Read more »

Here’s what we’re watching in Washington: C MS Announces Medicare At-Home Test Coverage is Coming On Thursday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that Medicare will cover free at-home COVID-19 tests beginning in “early spring.” Once the coverage begins, Medicare enrollees would be eligible for up to 8 over-the-counter (OTC) tests per… Read more »

Updates from CMS and CDC:Further Clarification of Visitation Guidance;Addition to Definitions of Vaccination Status;and More The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have made updates to their COVID-19 guidance. On February 2, 2022, CMS updated their Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) which clarify their November 2021… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, and the Office of the Probate Court Administrator collaborated to continue the free “Lunch & Learn” webinar series for professional conservators in 2022. Below is the information and registration for the April webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Medicare Coverage… Read more »

The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, and the Office of the Probate Court Administrator collaborated to continue the free “Lunch & Learn” webinar series for professional conservators in 2022. Below is the information and registration for the March webinar: Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: Connecticut Standards… Read more »

Please join us for a conversation about Eilon Caspi’s new book and screen the documentary film, “Fighting for Dignity.” February 22, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 Register here: https://events.zoom.us/ev/ACyiqzQ49hOnU2–C3HBZvGawua9124QEFsYPSYY3_KLgYdqxVG2QeurErjUgRjfXXJhXP8?lmt=1643642582000 About this event This event is sponsored by InCHIP’s Aging Research Interest Group, with support from the Human Rights Institute. The phenomenon of resident-to-resident incidents in nursing… Read more »

Have your electric bill ready to view during the session to understand its complicated components, learn about your choices when it comes to suppliers, how to make informed decisions, and where to find the most reliable data on suppliers. Know Your Electric Choices Date & Time:Wednesday, February 2, 20221:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.Location:Virtual REGISTER AARP… Read more »

    Dementia Training for Law Enforcement Personnel: Building Partnerships to Enhance Community Safety Thursday, February 24, 2022, 1:00-2:00 PM ET   REGISTER   As Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias become more common, law enforcement agencies across the country are increasingly called upon to respond to dementia-related incidents: wandering, abuse, domestic disturbances, and more. By collaborating with… Read more »

Know How to Go 101:  Transportation Navigation 6-Part Series:  Learn to navigate transportation options with AARP CT and Kennedy Center, Inc. for this FREE, Virtual session offering professionals, individuals and those interested in the topic, information on supporting transportation options to increase independence.  Sessions are approved for (1.0) Continuing Education Unit per session, by NASW/CT meeting the continuing… Read more »

FREE WEBINAR | Medicare Home Health and DME Update Thursday, April 28, 2022 @ 1 – 2:30 PM EST Sponsored by California Health Advocates Understanding Medicare is important to those who currently qualify for health coverage through Medicare, or may qualify in the future. An Overview of Medicare for People Living With Paralysis includes information… Read more »

On January 14, the White House announced a new initiative to help ensure Americans have COVID-19 tests on hand in case they are needed. The website to order at-home testing kits — at no cost — is now live and accepting orders. People who do not have Internet access or who need additional assistance with ordering can call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489)… Read more »

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has issued an executive order (Executive Order No. 14F) directing all nursing homes in Connecticut to require visitors to either show proof that they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have recently tested negative for the virus in order to enter the facilities. “We… Read more »

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Justice in Aging has updated its essential guide, 25 Common Nursing Home Problems—& How to Resolve Them. The revised guide includes new information on how to fight evictions, COVID-19 specific information for the ongoing public health emergency, and more.  The 25 problems identified in the guide are common across the country and in all types… Read more »

The State Unit on Aging, as a Community Partner of the Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, is happy to announce that The Alzheimer’s Association will host a free virtual educational conference for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and dementia and their families. The New England Family Conference will take place March 4-5, 2022 and is… Read more »

Posted on January 18, 2022 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to trends in the forecast indicating that temperatures in Connecticut will generally average about 10 degrees below normal for the next two weeks, he is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol – which he activated on Friday, January 14… Read more »

  Free COVID-19 Rapid Tests A new website from the US Postal Service allows residents to order at-home COVID-19 rapid testing kits. Visit: https://special.usps.com/testkits Details: Limit of one order per residential address One order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests Orders will ship free starting in late January   Visit USPS site     More… Read more »

Posted on January 14, 2022 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that his administration, working in cooperation with the Office of Attorney General William Tong, has reached an agreement with Disability Rights Connecticut and Connecticut Legal Rights Project regarding the state’s ongoing distribution of COVID-19 rapid antigen tests and N95 masks. Under the… Read more »

This webinar will provide an overview of Medicare issues in 2022, including potential legislative and administrative changes.  We will highlight key issues to watch in the coming year, including pandemic-related policy changes.  We will feature a discussion about the need for Medicare coverage of audiology care with Dr. Frank Lin, Director of the Cochlear Center… Read more »

REGISTER HERE: https://bit.ly/MedicareBootcampFebruary

Posted on January 14, 2022 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that Connecticut workers can now access benefits under the state’s newly launched paid family and medical leave program, which provides wage replacement for those who need to take time away from work to address qualifying health or family concerns. Overseen by the… Read more »

Good Day All! The January 2022 News You Can Use is here! To view this month’s edition, click here! Thank you! Erica Bonefas January 2022 Caregiver of Children Newsletter! Click Here! January 2022 Caregiver Newsletter! Click Here!

CMS NEWSFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 10, 2022 Contact: CMS Media Relations(202) 690-6145 | CMS Media Inquiries Biden-Harris Administration Requires Insurance Companies and Group Health Plans toCover the Cost of At-Home COVID-19 Tests, Increasing Access to Free Tests As part of its ongoing efforts across many channels to expand Americans’ access to free testing,the Biden-Harris Administration… Read more »

NCAAA has funding available to support vaccine and booster outreach activities!   Overview On March 29, President Biden announced that the administration was taking further action to expand access to COVID-19 vaccines. One action included in this expansion is that through a partnership between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Administration… Read more »

Posted on January 10, 2022 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that as brutally frigid temperatures are expected to impact Connecticut over the next couple of days, he is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol to be activated beginning at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, January 10, 2022, and remaining in effect through… Read more »

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Launches the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) On December 31, the FCC launched the ACP. This program, created by Congress in the Infrastructure and Jobs Act, is a longer-term replacement for the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program. This investment in broadband affordability will help ensure households can afford the internet connections they need for work, school,… Read more »

Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM). In 2022, ACL will be focusing on aging in place – how older adults can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible. The 2022 theme is Age My Way,… Read more »

CMS Updates FAQs on Nursing Home Visitation Guidance On January 6, 2022, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) updated the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) released on December 23rd, 2021, which clarify their updated Nursing Home Visitation Guidance from November. The updated FAQs continue to emphasize that visitation must be permitted at all times… Read more »

FREE WEBINAR | Medicare Coverage of Home Health Services Wednesday, January 12, 2021 @ 2 – 3 PM EST Medicare’s home health benefit offers coverage of a range of services for beneficiaries who qualify, but the benefit is often misunderstood. This free webinar by the Center for Medicare Advocacy will review the services the Medicare… Read more »

Posted on December 20, 2021 HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the State of Connecticut is now providing residents with the ability to store their personal COVID-19 vaccination records onto their smartphone devices. The digital vaccination cards mirror the paper cards from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that… Read more »

Posted on December 27, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced plans to distribute three million COVID-19 at-home rapid tests and six million N95 masks in Connecticut in an effort to help curb the spread of COVID-19 during this heavy travel and holiday season. The first allocation will include the distribution of 500,000… Read more »

Posted on December 16, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz today released the following statements regarding the passing of Edith Prague, who served as state senator from 1994 to 2012 and then as commissioner of the Connecticut Department on Aging (now the Department of Aging and Disability Services) from… Read more »

  HHS and HUD announce expanded partnership, new Housing and Services Resource Center Partnership will improve access to affordable, accessible housing and supportive services Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced the expansion of a partnership established earlier this year to… Read more »

The December 2021 “News You Can Use” is here! To view this month’s edition click here! The December 2021 Caregiver of Children Newsletter Click Here The December 2021 Caregiver Newsletter Click Here

Posted on December 2, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – With winter weather approaching and heating costs rising, Governor Ned Lamont today is reminding Connecticut residents about energy assistance services that are available in the state for those who need help keeping their homes and families warm this winter. “Here in Connecticut, we have many available services… Read more »

Skilled Nursing Facility Updates:Vaccinations, Visitation, and the Build Back Better Act Wednesday, December 15, 2021, 2:00-3:00 EST We invite you to join us for a free webinar on Wednesday December 15, 2021, from 2-3 pm, where we will examine skilled nursing facility vaccination and visitation rules in the COVID era, the important nursing home provisions in the… Read more »

Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: New CT Laws That Enhance Resident Rights, Free This session has been approved for 1 CLE by the CT Bar Association and 1 CEC by the CT/NASW The 2021 Legislative Session was an important one for nursing home residents. Several bills were passed and signed into law to ensure that better… Read more »

News from the Elder Justice Coalition    $4.2 Billion in Elder Justice Act Funding Passes First Big Test in House This morning, the House of Representatives passed the Build Back Better Act, which includes a historic investment of $4.2 billion to reauthorize and modernize the Elder Justice Act.   The bipartisan Elder Justice Coalition called… Read more »

On November 12th, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) updated their Nursing Home Visitation Guidance.  After a year and a half of residents and their loved ones being separated from each other and subject to confusing and often ignored visitation guidance, visitation is now allowed at all times for all residents, this includes… Read more »

Webinar: Preventing and Addressing Eviction Through Community Partnerships Wednesday, November 10, 2021, 11:00 AM-12:00 PM ET   REGISTER   Are you serving people at risk of eviction or who have been evicted? Are you working with landlords or tenants to prevent evictions? Do you want to work collectively to design and implement eviction prevention and/or… Read more »

Love learning? Enjoy connecting across generations? You may be perfect for Disrupt Aging Classroom! Join two Master Trainers on Thursday, Nov. 18, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Eastern, to learn how to become a trained Facilitator. In the webinar, you’ll learn more about:    What is Disrupt Aging Classroom?   What does being a Disrupt Aging Classroom… Read more »

        Independence   November 2021   AOASCC News & Notes     AOASCC Announces New Program   Chaperone Support Program – Do you know that tens of millions of Americans are in critical need of non-emergency medical assistance to remain living in their homes? Many also need companionship to avert the devastating… Read more »

Nursing Facility Advocacy 101: The Uses and Abuses of Antipsychotic/Neuroleptic Medications in the Elderly Population on Nov 18, 2021, 12:00 PM EST  Free This session has been approved for 1 CLE by the Connecticut Bar Association and 1 CEC by the NASW/CT. Attorney Sandra Sherlock White and Dr. Harry Morgan will provide an overview of… Read more »

November is National Family Caregiver Month and NCAAA is here to remind you that:    ·        6 in 10 caregivers report working while caregiving (61 percent) and the majority have experienced at least one work-related impact (61 percent); ·        1 in 5 caregivers report high financial strain as a result of caregiving; ·        3 in 10 have… Read more »

engAGED Webinar: Addressing Social Isolation of Older Adults Living in Rural America Friday, November 19, 2021 1:00-2:00 PM ET Webinar Registration Join engAGED for this upcoming webinar to learn how Area Agencies on Aging and Title VI Native American Aging Programs have developed social engagement activities to help older adults and caregivers living in rural… Read more »

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CMS Responds to Visitation Questions Consumer Voice recently asked the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for clarification of guidance addressing specific issues around visitation during a COVID-19 outbreak (defined as 1 positive test).   CMS responded via email on September 1, 2021.  While the responses we received are not official guidance, they do provide… Read more »

Nursing Home Advocacy 101: Defending Involuntary Nursing Home Discharges When: Wednesday, October 20th @ 12 PM, Free!! REGISTER HERE Have you ever been told your client “needs to leave” a nursing home because they are “difficult” or that the nursing home can no longer care for them? Attorneys Kevin Brophy and Jean Mills Aranha from… Read more »

Aging Network’s Role in Identifying Malnutrition and Abuse Nutrition plays a critical role in community living as we age. Good nutrition can help older adults stave off many illnesses, avoid or shorten hospital stays, and remain active and independent. It is critical to prevent malnutrition before it occurs and identify potential causes, including abuse and… Read more »

In this series with the Hartford Seminary, we will deepen connections to community through exploration of the different religions and cultures that make up our neighborhoods. Whether you are interested in broadening your professional toolkit or broadening your understanding of our world, this series will illuminate the creation of livable communities in your neighborhood and… Read more »

ACL & HRSA Webinar on HIV & Aging in the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP) Friday, October 22, 2021, 1:00-2:15 PM ET REGISTER Join ACL and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for their webinar,  Leveraging Collaboration between the RWHAP and Aging Agencies: Enhancing Support Services for Older Adults with HIV. Learn about ACL’s network… Read more »

Good afternoon, Today, during Residents’ Rights Month, we released an updated version of Preventing elder financial abuse: A guide for nursing homes and assisted living communities to help long-term care staff prevent and respond to financial exploitation of the people in their care. The updated guide walks team members through the four steps to fighting… Read more »

Sen. Bob Casey released the following announcement: Dear Friends: Last week, I held a hearing entitled, “Frauds, Scams and COVID-19: How Con Artists Have Targeted Older Americans During the Pandemic.” The hearing examined the exploitation of older Americans during the coronavirus pandemic by scammers. Ms. Kate Kleinert of Glenolden, Pennsylvania shared her  story as a… Read more »

2021 Statewide CHOICESMedicare Open Enrollment Events Medicare Open Enrollment is October 15 – December 7, 2021Changes take effect Jan 1, 2022   During Open Enrollment, you can:   ·        Join a new Medicare Advantage Plan or stand-alone prescription drug plan (Part D) plan ·        Switch between Original Medicare with or without a Part D plan and Medicare… Read more »

On Thursday, October 14, 2021, the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Section of Dispute Resolution Ombuds Committee is hosting the 4th annual celebration of a profession that has existed for centuries yet remains relatively unknown: ombuds/ombudsman. This year’s theme is “Ombuds: Exploring Options to Resolve Conflict Together.” Nora Duncan, AARP CT State Director & Mairead Painter,… Read more »

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Medicare Open Enrollment, October 15 – December 7 The time to save money is now Now’s the time review one’s current Part D prescription drug plan, note changes,and determine best options — as insurance companies may well change their Part D planpremiums, deductibles, and co-pays next year, advises Laura Crews, Director of… Read more »

It’s Residents’ Rights Month! Today marks the beginning of a month-long celebration of residents’ rights. Spend time this month honoring residents living in all long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, sub-acute units, assisted living, board and care, and retirement communities. Plus, take time to focus on individuals receiving care in their homes or communities. This… Read more »

Free Webinar, October 20 (2-3 pm) | Medicare Enrollment Issues for 2022 This webinar will discuss the 2022 Annual Coordinated Election Period (ACEP), including outreach and education materials issued by the Medicare program, Medicare Plan Finder updates, common enrollment pitfalls, options when you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, and other considerations for Medicare beneficiaries and… Read more »

By Keri Lipperini, Director of the Office of Nutrition and Health Promotion Programs  Each year, thousands of lives are lost to suicide across the U.S. And although suicide can affect people of any age, older adults are particularly at risk. Serious illness, chronic pain, mental health conditions such as depression, and social isolation all increase risk… Read more »

Department of Social Services Announces: Community Action Agencies are currently accepting applications for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP).  Program guidelines, including important dates and benefit levels, have been updated. To apply for the program, you can contact the Community Action Agency or affiliated organization in your area.  Please scroll down for information about where to… Read more »

Dear Colleagues,    We are pleased to announce the release of a new factsheet, “APS wouldn’t take my report. Why?” from the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) and the National Center on Elder Abuse and Keck School of Medicine of USC.     It is upsetting to report a situation of elder abuse to… Read more »

Webinar: Taking Care of Yourself During COVID Wednesday, October 13, 2021, 3:00 – 4:00 PM ET  REGISTER Has the COVID-19 pandemic left you feeling overwhelmed and stressed out? Self-care is essential to weathering these tough times. Join ACL’s Office of Nutrition and Health Promotion Programs (ONHPP) for our webinar, “Taking Care of Yourself During COVID.”… Read more »

9/22/21- Today the Recognize, Assist, Include, Support, & Engage (RAISE) Family Caregiving Advisory Council delivered its initial report to Congress. The culmination of a two-year, multi-faceted effort that gathered input from family caregivers across the country, the report provides an overview of many of the issues faced by family caregivers nationwide and provides recommendations for… Read more »

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Laura Crews860-887-3561 [email protected] Popular Seniors Benefits program Receives $120,000 Award Norwich, CT – The National Council on Aging (NCOA) recently awarded $120,000 to Senior ResourcesAgency on Aging’s Benefits Enrollment Centers program, a popular program providing seniorspreliminary screening and claim assistance for a host of state and federal benefits. In announcing the… Read more »

Federal public benefits provide critical support to older immigrants. But for a subset of older immigrants who are affected by the “five-year bar,” this assistance is out of reach. A new Justice in Aging Fact Sheet, The Five-Year Bar Prevents Older Immigrants from Accessing Programs that Help them Meet Basic Needs, outlines how a 1996… Read more »

Department of Consumer Protection’s 6th Annual Cross-Cultural Communications Symposium Data with Dignity: People Behind the Numbers October 22, 2021 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford, Connecticut Keynote Speaker: Charlton McIlwain – Just Data: Designing Technology for Racial Justice Register now to assure your place: https://biznet.ct.gov/DCP_Symposium This past year and a half has shown… Read more »

Please see the announcement below from the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative. Guardianship is one approach to providing support and assistance to adults who need help with decision-making about finances and personal issues.  However, as recent high-profile and less visible cases illustrate, guardianship can also infringe on personal rights and can lead to mistreatment… Read more »

Dear Colleagues,     We are pleased to announce the release of a new factsheet, “Policies & Legislation:  Impacting Elder Programs in Indian Country Impacting Elder Programs in Indian Country,” from the National Indigenous Elder Justice Initiative (NIEJI) at the University of North Dakota’s Online Interactive Educational Module and the National Center on Elder Abuse and Keck… Read more »

Focus on Aging/Federal Partners’ Webinar: End-of-Life Care Thursday, September 30, 2021, 2:30-4:00 PM ET Register End-of-life care is a term used to describe support and medical care given during the time of life preceding death. Care at the end of life can include support for physical, emotional, spiritual, and practical needs. For those living with… Read more »

Older Adults with HIV/AIDS: A Growing Population By Brian Altman, Deputy Director, Administration on Aging, ACL September 18th marks National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day—a day we celebrate the growing number of people living long and active lives with HIV. When HIV emerged in the early 1980s, people who contracted the virus could expect to… Read more »

Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) Webinar Thursday, September 30, 2021, at 11:00 AM-12:00 PM ET Emergency Rental Assistance Program: Tools to Assist the People You Serve Are you serving people at risk of eviction or who have been evicted? Are you working with landlords whose tenants are behind on rent as a result of COVID-19?… Read more »

ACL/CMS Promising Practices Series: Expanding, Enhancing, and Strengthening Home and Community Based Services under Section 9817 of the American Rescue Plan Act Thursday, September 30th, 2021 3:00 – 4:30 PM ET Register for this Webinar COVID-19 has impacted older adults and people with disabilities in many ways. In addition to increased risk of serious illness… Read more »

Monday September 20, 2021, 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM 19 Ohio Avenue, Norwich, CT 06360 We are here and ready to help you with a variety of concerns about aging!  Come grab some information and ask a quick question during this drive thru or drive in event.   Discuss Healthy Aging, Nutrition, Caregiving, Medicare, Scam Prevention… Read more »

Join AARP Connecticut and the City of Hartford for a virtual conversation with Gil Penalosa about Open Streets, a global movement to temporarily open streets to people by making them vehicle-free. Hartford is developing a monthly Open Streets Program for the summer of 2022 with a goal of connecting neighborhoods, people, and businesses by transforming… Read more »

Good Day All! The September 2021 News You Can Use is here! To view this month’s edition, click here! Thank you! Erica Bonefas

Wednesday, October 612:00 pm – 1:00 pm ET Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, all of us have experienced the changing nature of social connections and many of us have gained personal insight into what it means to be socially isolated, lonely, or both. These are not new concepts that have resulted from the pandemic.… Read more »

We are pleased to share a new blog, “Virtually, People of All Ages Can Prevent Elder Abuse” by Kimmy Moon, NCEA Project Coordinator and Alexis Calleros, NCEA Project Assistant.     Elder abuse is a serious public health and human rights issue that impacts us all on some level. There’s something – big or small –… Read more »

Fraud Fighting Fourth Fridays: Powered by AARP CT & the Coalition for Elder Justice in CT: Shining a light on the scams in your community. 9/24 @ 10 AM Investment Fraud Training: Protecting Yourself and Others from Fraud and Financial AbuseJoin staff from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for a live webinar on investment… Read more »

People living with dementia are understood, respected, and supported. Communities have a heightened awareness of the signs and symptoms of dementia and recognize how to best support and include people living with dementia so they can continue to engage fully and thrive. We welcome LiveWell to share how they cultivate a dementia friendly communities through… Read more »

September 18th is National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day. Over half of people in the U.S. diagnosed with HIV are aged 50 or over, and other data show that over 40% of new diagnoses among older adults are of Black patients. The National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day brings attention to the health and social needs of… Read more »

You are invited to Mental Health First Aid for Older Adults webinar, co-sponsored by National Coalition on Mental Health and Aging and the National Council on Aging. When: Wednesday, October 13, 2021; 2:00-3:00 p.m. Eastern Time Learning Objectives: You will learn the purpose of Mental Health First Aid and what it covers You will learn… Read more »

What is Dementia Friends Connecticut? Dementia Friends is a global movement that is changing the way people think, act, and talk about dementia.   Developed by the Alzheimer’s Society in the United Kingdom, the Dementia Friends movement is now spreading through Connecticut. By helping everyone in a community understand what dementia is and how it affects… Read more »

In its budget reconciliation proposal markup this afternoon, the House Ways and Means Committee officially recommended that the House Budget Committee include the Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2021 (EJRMA) in the House’s budget reconciliation package. In his opening remarks, Ways and Means Chairman Richard Neal (D-MA) referenced the Elder Justice Coalition’s support… Read more »

    CLEs Now Available for “Lunch and Learn” Series!   Good News!   The Connecticut Bar Association is providing CT CLE credit for attorneys who attend the entire lunch and learn session on September 23, 2021. Attorneys simply need to record the proper verification code on the verification code page. The link to the… Read more »

People living with dementia are understood, respected, and supported. Communities have a heightened awareness of the signs and symptoms of dementia and recognize how to best support and include people living with dementia so they can continue to engage fully and thrive. Join us as we welcome LiveWell to share how they cultivate a dementia… Read more »

This interactive virtual presentation offers you the opportunity to examine “What You Have” vs. “What You Need” when it comes to your HOME, CAR and COMMUNITY. Geared toward the whole family, participants will gain an understanding of the tools and resources available to live independently and safely, no matter what your age or stage of… Read more »

  Upcoming Webinar COVID Scams & Pandemic Financial Protection Tuesday, September 21, 20213:00 PM – 4:00 PM Eastern Time Click here to convert to your time zone.   REGISTER NOW     Learn from the FTC and CFPB about the latest COVID scams, how to avoid them, where to report them, and how to educate… Read more »

Dear Colleagues,     We are pleased to announce the release of a new factsheet, “Medication Issues,” from the National Indigenous Elder Justice Initiative (NIEJI) at the University of North Dakota’s Online Interactive Educational Module and the National Center on Elder Abuse and Keck School of Medicine of USC.     While medications can help with… Read more »

Consumer Voice and Other Advocates Submit Recommendations to CMS on VisitationLast week, Consumer Voice, with the Center for Medicare Advocacy, Long Term Care Community Coalition, and California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform, sent recommendations to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in light of the recent increase in COVID-19 cases and Delta variant. … Read more »

Free WebinarHealth Equity, Medicare, and  the Modern Civil Rights Movement Wednesday, September 8, 2:00 – 3:30 PM EDT We invite you to join us today, Wednesday September 8 from 2-3 pm, as we explore the important role that Medicare played in the nation’s desegregation movement, continued systemic racism in our health systems, and the role that… Read more »

Join staff from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for a live webinar on investment fraud and financial abuse. Learn about the common scams targeting Connecticut residents, the common persuasion tactics that criminals use, and the profile criminals look for when targeting people for investment-fraud (which may surprise you). Registration: https://aarp.cvent.com/FFFF24Sept

Posted on September 1, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Department of Public Health Acting Commissioner Dr. Deidre Gifford today announced the launch of a new television ad campaign to further impress upon Connecticut residents the importance of COVID-19 vaccinations as the Delta variant continues to spread across the state and the… Read more »

  For most of us, returning to normalcy in the haze of the pandemic has been marked by a series of fits and starts. But within the elder justice arena, the past few months have been a time of progress and productivity. Federal agencies and national organizations have produced an array of relevant materials to… Read more »

    Substance Abuse Educational Toolkit   VIEW THE TOOLKIT   APS investigations, assessments, and service referral/coordination may present challenges when the client has one or more substance abuse concerns. This toolkit is a resource both to front-line staff and administrators. The toolkit includes the following which will be of interest to staff working directly with… Read more »

The Coaltion for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the CT Bar Association and the Office of the Probate Administrator have collaborated to provide a series of “Lunch and Learn” sessions for Conservators. Speakers will share the tips and tricks for advocating for residents in nursing homes and answer questions. While designed… Read more »

Many older immigrants face barriers to accessing services and public benefits, as well as immigration law challenges. As new immigrants from Afghanistan are arriving in the United States this month, aging services advocates and legal assistance providers can play a role in helping older immigrants navigate these barriers to critically needed services and explain their… Read more »

Nursing Home Residents Have Private Right of Action to Enforce the Nursing Home Reform Law Against Publicly-Owned Facilities NEW | Durable Medical Equipment Resources Free Webinar | COVID 19 and Health Equity Before August Ends, We Need Your Support Nursing Home Residents Have Private Right of Action to Enforce the Nursing Home Reform Law Against Publicly-Owned… Read more »

On August 26, 2021, the United States Supreme Court issued a decision ending the CDC eviction moratorium. If you are facing eviction now, we have resources to help.   Even though federal protections have ended, some state or local moratoriums are still preventing evictions. Visit Eviction Lab to see if your state or local government is stopping evictions.  Renters… Read more »

House lawmakers voted along party lines to pass a $3.5 trillion budget framework and advance a $1.2 trillion infrastructure package, committing to a vote on the Senate-passed bill by Sept. 27. The budget proposal would expand Medicare coverage, lower prescription drug costs for seniors and expand other federal safety net programs. Full Story: CNBC (8/25), … Read more »

We are pleased to announce the release of a new factsheet,   “Guardianship: Remedy Guardianship: Remedy vs. Enabler of Elder Abuse,” from the National Center on Elder Abuse and Keck School of Medicine of USC.   Guardianship plays two opposing roles in the world of elder abuse. Often guardians are heroes in preventing, detecting, remedying abuse, and improving… Read more »

Last night, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to end the temporary stay on a lower court ruling invalidating the federal eviction moratorium issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This means the CDC’s August 3 eviction moratorium is no longer in effect, putting millions of households at risk of eviction. The National… Read more »

  EnergyAssistance 2021-2022         UPDATES Utility Shut-Offs are Currently Set to Resume Beginning September 15, 2021.  Get Signed Up for Shut-Off Protection and Energy Assistance NOW! UniteCT – Rent, and/or Electric Utility Payments:  For tenants              and all eligible electric utility customers affected by the pandemic: Up to $1,500 toward last six months of… Read more »

IRIS in New Haven may be able to offer some advice. They are a refugee resettlement agency involved in the resettlement of Afghan refugees to CT   https://irisct.org/    Also- FYI in case any of you are interested, IRIS is hosting this informational event tomorrow Friday 8/27: 1 pm (via Zoom) for an update on the Afghanistan… Read more »

AARP CT Livable Communities Grant Application AARP CT Livable Communities Grant Request for Proposal August 25, 2021 AARP Connecticut Livable Communities Grant Program Now Accepting 2021 Applications AARP Connecticut invites community organizations and governments across the state to apply for the 2021 Livable Communities Grant Program, a local extension of the national AARP Community Challenge… Read more »

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently changed their rules about how pandemic-related financial assistance can affect an individual’s eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or monthly SSI benefit amount. Previously, SSA had been counting many types of assistance as income and resources for SSI purposes, resulting in individuals having their SSI benefits reduced or suspended,… Read more »

COMING SOON! CEJC “Lunch and Learn” Series for Conservators: Do you represent or are you a Conservator for individuals who live in nursing facilities? Do you want to learn how to advocate for your clients more effectively? The Coalition for Elder Justice in CT, the Elder Law Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, and the… Read more »

In this Issue: Consumer Voice Statement on Vaccination of Staff How to Find COVID-19 Vaccination Rates in Nursing Homes CMS Expands Medicare Payments for At-Home COVID-19 Vaccinations Join the Commit to Connect Network to Help Address Social Isolation FAQs about Visitation in Nursing Homes Including Questions about How Staffing and Vaccination Status Affects Visitation Consumer… Read more »

We are pleased to announce the release of a new factsheet, “Who’s Who in Congress: Elder Justice Policy,” from the National Center on Elder Abuse and Keck School of Medicine of USC.     Elder justice is a bipartisan issue. Learn more about members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, from both parties,… Read more »

Hartford HealthCare is hosting a Dementia Symposium for Health Care Professionals Wednesday, September 22, 2021, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Caring for a person with dementia is not intuitive and brings daily challenges. This symposium will provide greater insight into the most common forms of dementia, the disease progression and the effects on family and… Read more »

Federal Updates to COVID-19 Mortgage Relief Options When: Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at 12:00-1:00 P.T./3:00-4:00 E.T. A number of federal policy updates have been put in place for borrowers facing COVID-19 hardships. Older adults, particularly older workers, have been hit hard by the pandemic and will need access to relief options to help them avoid foreclosure. A significant… Read more »

Senate Introduces Nursing Home Improvement and Accountability ActLast week, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Senate Aging Committee Chairman Bob Casey (D-PA), along with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Sherrod Brown (D-OH), introduced the Nursing Home Improvement and Accountability Act of 2021.  This legislation would increase transparency,… Read more »

Learn what you need to prepare for the upcoming Medicare Open Enrollment Period that begins on October 15th and much more in the WCAAA Insider! To read the August-September Edition of the WCAAA Insider, click on this link: https://wcaaa.org/uploads/files/Newsletters/2021_08_WCAAA_Insider.pdf?v=1628104422125

August 12, 2021 –Congress Sets the Stage for Important Medicare Improvements –Senators Introduce Nursing Home Legislation to Improve Quality of Care –GAO Issues New Report on Nurse Staffing in Nursing Facilities –Medicare Advantage Costs and Coverage Concerns -Article | Making hearing aids affordable isn’t enough. Older adults also need hearing care services -American Bar Association… Read more »

Marshall Miles Interviews-Audrey Cole: Senior Medicare patrol, Coordinator Of Volunteers Western Connecticut Area Agency On Aging Training Session Wednesday September 29 – ROBIN HOOD RADIO ON DEMAND AUDIO PAGE The Western Connecticut Area Agency on Aging, Inc. (WCAAA) is a private, non-profit corporation. Through designation as an Area Agency on Aging, the WCAAA is a… Read more »

August 2021 News You Can Use! Good Day All! The August 2021 News You Can Use is here! To view this month’s edition, click here! Thank you! Erica Bonefas August 2021 Caregiver of Children Newsletter! Click Here! August 2021 Caregiver Newsletter! Click Here! Website  Programs/Services  Stay Informed  Get Involved  About

First Update in More Than 45 Years Reflects Current Cost Realities WASHINGTON, August 16, 2021 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today released a re-evaluation of the Thrifty Food Plan, used to calculate Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. As a result, the average SNAP benefit – excluding additional funds provided as part of pandemic relief –… Read more »

Mayor Neil M. O’LearyCity of WaterburyFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJune 25, 2021Contact: Ali DeGirolamo [email protected] or Tia Josef [email protected] for Congresswoman Hayes: Imani Pope-Johns [email protected] City of Waterbury Awarded $4 Million Federal Grant to AddressHealth Literacy and Increase Access to Primary Care Waterbury is among only 30 cities in the entire nation selected for this fundingWaterbury, CT… Read more »

This interactive virtual presentation offers you the opportunity to examine “What You Have” vs. “What You Need” when it comes to your HOME, CAR and COMMUNITY. Geared toward the whole family, participants will gain an understanding of the tools and resources available to live independently and safely, no matter what your age or stage of… Read more »

This virtual conversation is designed specifically for unpaid family caregivers who are the backbone of our health care system.  Learn tools and options to support you in navigating the care for loved ones and yourself. Gain an understanding of available services, resources and care options while learning specific tools for staying informed on issues impacting… Read more »

Urge Congress to Support the Essential Caregivers ActThe Essential Caregivers Act (H.R. 3733) is bipartisan legislation that gives residents of nursing homes the right to access essential caregivers (ECs) during any public health emergency.  Contact your members of Congress to urge them to support this important legislation! An essential caregiver is a person, designated by… Read more »

Senate Introduces Nursing Home Improvement and Accountability Act August 11, 2021 Yesterday, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Senate Aging Committee Chairman Bob Casey (D-PA), along with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Sherrod Brown (D-OH), introduced the Nursing Home Improvement and Accountability Act of 2021.  This legislation… Read more »

The national Elder Justice Coalition (EJC) today gave its strong endorsement to the Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2021, introduced this weekend in the House and Senate.   T he House bill, H.R.4969, was authored by House Ways and Means Committee Chair Richard Neal with primary co-sponsor Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, co-chair of the… Read more »

August Blog Now Available!  Dear Colleagues,     We are pleased to share a new blog by Deborah Royster, “Help With Financial Needs as We Age.”    As we grow older, we face many financial decisions. Who will help me manage my money if I am no longer able to do it myself? How can I… Read more »

Extreme Heat and Cooling Centers A helpful reminder from Connecticut’s Infoline 211…. “Throughout the summer months Connecticut may experience periods of extreme heat including excessively high temperatures and high levels of humidity. It is recommended that during periods of extreme heat that Connecticut residents take precautions and stay informed.   “Excessively high temperatures can be dangerous… Read more »

The Department of Social Services (DSS) has been awarded funds from the federal Department of Health and Human Services to administer the first Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program.  This new federal program will provide funds to assist low-income households with water and wastewater bills.  The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program is especially intended to help households… Read more »

If you’re a landlord, you might depend on rental income to cover your own housing costs. If your tenants had trouble paying their rent during the coronavirus pandemic, it could affect your financial well-being too. The U.S. Department of Treasury’s Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program could help you recover up to 18 months of lost… Read more »

        News from the Elder Justice Coalition   EJC Endorses Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2021   The national Elder Justice Coalition (EJC) today gave its strong endorsement to the Elder Justice Reauthorization and Modernization Act of 2021, introduced this weekend in the House and Senate.   The House bill,… Read more »

Governor Lamont Orders Long-Term Care Facility Staff in Connecticut To Be Vaccinated Against COVID-19 Posted on August 6, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that in an effort to protect some of the most vulnerable residents of Connecticut from the impact of COVID-19, he has directed an executive order be issued to… Read more »

Here’s what we’re watching in Washington: New Limited Eviction Moratorium & HUD Funding for Legal Services Providers On Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced a limited eviction moratorium for renters living in communities experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases. The new moratorium began on August 3 and protects renters for up… Read more »

Governor Lamont Issues Executive Order Allowing Municipalities To Implement Universal Mask Requirements, Announces Unvaccinated Nursing Home Staff Will Be Required To Receive Weekly Tests Posted on August 5, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has signed an executive order related to the COVID-19 emergency declarations (Executive Order No. 13A) that… Read more »

ACL Policy Round-Up By: Vicki Gottlich, Director – Center for Policy and Evaluation The ACL Policy Round-Up is a new blog feature intended to help the aging and disability networks stay informed about new policies (and policy changes) that impact our work, and to ensure our networks are aware of opportunities to provide input on… Read more »

If you’re looking for help with rent and utilities, you’re not alone. The CDC issued a NEW eviction moratorium on August 3, 2021, temporarily halting evictions in counties where COVID-19 is spreading rapidly.  If you gave your landlord a declaration by July 31, and it’s still true, you are still protected from eviction for unpaid rent until October 3rd, 2021. If you need help and have not submitted a declaration, this… Read more »

Enjoy the Fresh Air, Fresh Foods and Fun Atmosphere of your local Farmer’s Market while learning about programs and services that assist older adults to thrive in their community throughout Eastern Connecticut. Discuss Healthy Aging, Nutrition, Caregiving, Medicare, Scam Prevention and much more! Eligible seniors can also pick up Senior Farmer Market Vouchers (while supplies… Read more »

An Advocate’s Guide to AppealingPrescription Drug Denials  When: Thursday, August 19, 2021, at 11:00-12:00 P.T./2:00-3:00 E.T. Medicare Part D, the prescription drug benefit, is the part of Medicare that covers most outpatient prescription drugs. Part D prescription drug plans are offered through private insurance companies that make initial decisions at the pharmacy about whether a beneficiary’s prescription… Read more »

SHARE:   Support The Essential Caregivers Act (H.R. 3733) August 4, 2021 The Essential Caregivers Act (H.R. 3733) is bipartisan legislation that gives residents of nursing homes the right to access essential caregivers (ECs) during any public health emergency. An essential caregiver is a person, designated by the resident, who can enter the facility, even when… Read more »

    New Blog Post! The APS Technical Assistance Resource Center (APS TARC) is pleased to announce a new post to the APS Blog.     Collaborating with Law Enforcement: Specialized Units and Multidisciplinary Teams​Author: Kendra Kuehn, MSW, National Adult Protective Services Association Law enforcement and adult protective services (APS) relationships can be a challenging area… Read more »

Technology for Tomorrow and Arizona State University News Co/Lab are collaborating to deliver a course on how understanding media literacy principles can help you make sense of your digital media environment. Attendees will learn how to spot misinformation, how to assess credible sources and claims, and how to use media to participate in your community.… Read more »

As our country continues to recover from the pandemic, people with disabilities and aging adults need a bold investment in Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). Join us in calling on members of Congress to support the Better Care Better Jobs Act and the full $400 billion in funding to permanently strengthen and expand the… Read more »

Rental Assistance for Older Adult Tenants The COVID-19 pandemic has increased housing instability for many older adult tenants. There are tools available to help prevent evictions of older adults, including emergency rental assistance, available across the country through locally run programs. This week, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) debuted a new tool that helps… Read more »

July 29, 2021 Celebrating Medicare’s 56th Anniversary and Its Leadership in Advancing Health Equity New Medicare Home Health Fact Sheet – Focus on Home Health Aides Immunity for Long-Term Care Facilities During the Coronavirus Pandemic Help the Center’s Mission Soar Celebrating Medicare’s 56th Anniversary and Its Leadership in Advancing Health Equity The Center for Medicare… Read more »

We are pleased to share a new blog by Lori Mars, JD, “Beyond COVID-19: Changes in Long-term Care.”    To date, almost 660,000 nursing home residents in the U.S. have contracted COVID-19 and more than 133,000 have died of the virus and/or related complications. Throughout the past year-and-a-half, long-term care ombudsmen worked tirelessly to relieve the… Read more »

The latest scam targets COVID-19 vaccination verification methods. The Federal Trade Commission shares 4 ways to stay ahead of the vaccine certificate scams. Four Ways to Stay Ahead of COVID-19 Vacinne Certificate Scammers (ftc.gov)

Please join AARP Connecticut and Elizabeth Dugan, Associate Professor of Gerontology in the McCormack Graduate School for Policy and Global Studies at the University of Massachusetts Boston, for a presentation of the Connecticut Healthy Aging Data Report. This new report examines 190 indicators of wellbeing in local communities and provides valuable insights into what aging… Read more »

Center for Medicare Advocacy and CT Legislature Expand Options for Certain Medicare Beneficiaries Effective July 1, 2021. Medicare consumers deemed eligible by virtue of a  disability will now have access to an additional Medicare Supplemental plan (“Medigap plan”); standardized “Medigap Plan D”.   Prior to July 1, 2021, Medicare Beneficiaries eligible because of a disability had… Read more »

  July 22, 2021 For Immediate Release   Connecticut State Officials Warn Residents to be Aware of Hurricane Season and Natural Disaster-Related Scams As Severe Weather Events Become More Common   (Hartford, CT)– The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Attorney General William Tong and Better Business… Read more »

I am happy to share with you an article that outlines the innovative research done by an incredible age-inclusive champion, Dr. Joan Monin, associate professor in the Yale School of Public Health, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences and the study’s lead author.  Please feel free to share this as appropriate.  Dr. Monin recognizes the… Read more »

Add Dental/Oral Health Coverage to Medicare for All Beneficiaries Over the past few months, the Center for Medicare Advocacy has issued a series of factsheets developed in collaboration with esteemed dentist and advocate, Larry Coffee, DDS. The factsheets explain in layperson’s terms the interrelationship between oral health and certain common medical conditions – and offer… Read more »

Join staff from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for a live webinar on investment fraud and financial abuse. Learn about the common scams targeting Connecticut residents, the common persuasion tactics that criminals use, and the profile criminals look for when targeting people for investment-fraud (which may surprise you). Registration: https://aarp.cvent.com/FFFF24Sept

Powered by AARP CT & the Coalition for Elder Justice in CT shining a light on the scams in your community. Registration is required separately for each virtual session. 7/23 @ 10 AM:  A Mission of Protecting Older Adults: PSE 101  Dorian Long, Manager of the Protective Services for the Elderly of CT Department of… Read more »

Today we launched a new digital toolkit for media, intermediaries, and other stakeholders interested in providing information to renters and mortgage borrowers who continue to struggle as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The toolkit provides the most up-to-date information and resources that you can share. To help spread the word to struggling consumers about… Read more »

Dear Colleagues,   We are pleased to announce the release of two new publications, “Adult Guardianship and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons Learned” issue brief and “How the COVID-19 Pandemic Changed Adult Guardianship: Lessons Learned” factsheet, from the National Center on Elder Abuse and Keck School of Medicine of USC.   Tragic as it was, the pandemic… Read more »

Strategies for Developing AccessibleDocuments and Presentations  When: Wednesday, July 21, 2021, at 11:00-12:00 P.T./2:00-3:00 E.T. Accessibility is the design of websites, documents, tools, and technologies in a way that can be used by as many people as possible. Making materials and tools accessible allows individuals with a disability to participate and have access to information, ensuring that… Read more »

Registration:  https://aarp.cvent.com/WishesJuly14 Your Wishes:  Documents & Decisions by AARP CT Webinar Wednesdays:  Join AARP CT as they welcome Coalition for Elder Justice in CT (CEJC) Co-Chair, Attorney Lara Stauning and CEJC Member Attorney Sandra Sherlock-White as they walk you through the steps to carry out your wishes. The session will review life planning documents, identify… Read more »

Hartford HealthCare is hosting a Dementia Symposium for Health Care Professionals Wednesday, September 22, 2021, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Caring for a person with dementia is not intuitive and brings daily challenges. This symposium will provide greater insight into the most common forms of dementia, the disease progression and the effects on family and… Read more »

The Essential Caregivers Act  (H.R. 3733)  is bipartisan legislation that would give nursing home residents the right to have access to two “essential caregivers” to provide care, support, and companionship during any public health emergency. Essential caregivers would be permitted to visit even if visitation were restricted, as it has been during the COVID-19 pandemic.… Read more »

In the coming weeks and months, many COVID-19 protections will come to an end. Today we finalized amendments to federal mortgage servicing rules that help ensure homeowners have a meaningful opportunity to pursue foreclosure avoidance options while they are recovering from the economic effects of the pandemic. This is part of our work to prevent… Read more »

 Join in on the movement to reframe elder abuse with the FrameWorks Institute and the National Center on Elder Abuse’s (NCEA) online video lecture series, “Learn How to Talk About Elder Abuse.” During this interactive training you will gain the skills to begin effectively reframing your public communications to prevent elder abuse.    This course… Read more »

When: Tuesday, July 13, 2021, at 11:00-12:00 P.T./2:00-3:00 E.T. Decision supports maximize independence and self-determination and empower older adults to use trusted supports, selected by the person, to provide help in making informed choices. Older adults who experience abuse or exploitation may lose existing supports and supporters and require new or enhanced supports in place. Many older adults need assistance… Read more »

READ THE BRIEF Clients with mental health conditions can be challenging for adult protective services (APS) programs and staff. APS workers occasionally deal with individuals with mental health concerns in emotionally charged situations. Clients can become disoriented and confused, evoking a hostile response. This brief addresses de-escalation techniques, multidisciplinary approaches, promising practices, and other issues… Read more »

Extreme Heat and Cooling Centers A helpful reminder from Connecticut’s Infoline 211…. “Throughout the summer months Connecticut may experience periods of extreme heat including excessively high temperatures and high levels of humidity. It is recommended that during periods of extreme heat that Connecticut residents take precautions and stay informed.   “Excessively high temperatures can be dangerous… Read more »

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJune 25, 2021 Contact: Ali DeGirolamo [email protected] or Tia Josef [email protected] Contact for Congresswoman Hayes: Imani Pope-Johns [email protected] City of Waterbury Awarded $4 Million Federal Grant to AddressHealth Literacy and Increase Access to Primary Care Waterbury is among only 30 cities in the entire nation selected for this fundingWaterbury, CT – On Monday,… Read more »

To help people stay in stable housing during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an order that means you may be protected from eviction if you can’t afford to pay your rent. To be protected, you must sign and give a CDC Declaration to your landlord. The CDC just… Read more »

Creative writing and artistic expression are meaningful and compelling ways to highlight the importance of residents’ rights and how these rights can be carried out in all long-term care settings.Residents of long-term care facilities are invited to get creative by participating in this year’s Resident’s Voice Challenge. The Resident’s Voice Challenge is an opportunity for… Read more »

  Upcoming Webinar The Role of the Criminal Justice System in Addressing Elder Abuse PerpetratorsTuesday, June 29, 20213:00 PM – 4:00 PM Eastern TimeClick here to convert to your time zone.   REGISTER NOW     Adult protective services (APS) programs work closely with the criminal justice system. While both systems seek protection of victims… Read more »

Join us for the free screening and discussion of the PBS Frontline documentary Being Mortal. Based on the best-selling book by Dr. Atul Gawande, this film explores the hopes of patients and families facing terminal illness and their relationships with the doctors, nurses and family members who care for them. Registration:  https://aarp.cvent.com/BeingMortal30June

The Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities (CTCDD)  is working with the Town of Vernon to help persons with disabilities, their caregivers and their families with obtaining COVID-19 vaccines.  They are making sure access to vaccines are accommodating to people’s needs.  They are willing to help people throughout Connecticut.  If you are in need of a… Read more »

Registration Now Open for Consumer Voice Annual ConferenceJoin us November 3-5, 2021 as we go virtual for the Consumer Voice Annual Conference! Expert speakers, the most up-to-date policy information, best practices shared from across the country, and networking with a community of other long-term care advocates – our virtual conference will include the same great… Read more »

CHOICES New Team Member Online Training SEPTEMBER 2021CHOICES, Connecticut’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), is accepting applications for our 2021 New Team Member Training sessions. CHOICES is part of a national network of SHIP agencies that offers free, confidential counseling, education and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries, their caregivers and the general public. CHOICES is… Read more »

We are excited to be partnering with the American Society on Aging on a series of interviews with legends in aging—all of whom have spent decades in the fields of aging, health, and social services. Ken Dychtwald, PhD will interview each pioneer in gerontology to inform, inspire, and guide current and future professionals in aging. … Read more »

The ACA is Here to Stay, Improving Medicare and Health Security for Millions JUNE 17, 2021FacebookTwitterLinkedInShare The Center for Medicare Advocacy is relieved that the Supreme Court has left the Affordable Care Act (ACA) intact as the law of the land. Today’s decision in California v. Texas is critical for the older adults and people with disabilities who rely… Read more »

Today, we celebrate an important victory for access to health care for low-income older adults: The Supreme Court reaffirmed that the Affordable Care Act is here to stay. In a 7-2 ruling in California v. Texas, the Court held that neither the states nor the individual plaintiffs have standing to challenge the constitutionality of the… Read more »

Emergency Management Preparedness Manual for People with Disabilities – Part 2 – Wednesday, June 23rd, 2021 at 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM ET (English) The National Preparedness Division from the Puerto Rico Caribbean Area Office for FEMA Region 2 in partnership with the Puerto Rico Core Advisory Groups (PR CAGS) will be providing the Part 2 of… Read more »

Emergency Rental Assistance Programs and Other Tools to Prevent Evictions of Older Adult Tenants When: Tuesday, June 22, 2021, at 11:00-12:00 P.T./2:00-3:00 E.T. This webinar will provide an overview of tools available to prevent evictions of older adults as the COVID-19 pandemic winds down, including temporary state and local protections and the federal government’s COVID Emergency Rental… Read more »

Advocates Call on CMS to Restore Full Visitation Rights Consumer Voice, along with partner advocates, have sent a letter calling on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to fully restore the visitation rights of nursing home residents. In March 2020, CMS issued guidance which closed nursing home doors, banned in-person visitation, and, in… Read more »

When: Wednesday, June 23, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. PT/2:00 p.m. ET Asian American and Pacific Islander older adults are a diverse community with many unique needs and specific issues. Unfortunately, the AAPI community has been met with longstanding discrimination and xenophobia, including high-profile attacks in recent months. Many of these incidents have disproportionately targeted AAPI… Read more »

Elder Abuse in People Living with Dementia: Considerations for Prevention, Detection and Intervention Wednesday, June 23, 2021 2:00-3:00 PM ET Webinar Registration Elder mistreatment is common in our society, particularly among older adults with cognitive impairment and dementia. Using practical clinical and legal tools, we can look for high-risk situations and prevent abuse, and we… Read more »

Elder Abuse in the time of  COVID-19: Where are we Now? Join us for a webinar focusing on how the pandemic has impacted elder abuse and hear from a panel of local experts how we are combatting elder abuse on a local level.  Featuring: Paul Greenwood, Former San Diego District Attorney and Expert on Elder… Read more »

Friday, June 18, 3:00-4:30 PM ET Webinar Registration In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), join the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center (NORC) to learn how to identify and respond to signs of trauma and potential abuse or neglect, and support residents as Ombudsman programs resume in-person visits during the COVID-19 pandemic.… Read more »

AARP Fraud Watch Network presents their signature event offering new twists and turns on the psychology behind ID Theft, Fraud & Scams. This virtual session provides actual footage of scammers, insights and advice. You will walk away armed with tools to spot the criminals and guard against their unscrupulous tactics. This session is open to… Read more »

It is estimated 17.7 million Americans provide care for a family member aged 65 or older with significantly impaired abilities. Among these caregivers, many have little or no training in how to provide care or manage healthcare systems, and so feel isolated and uncertain in their role. For those many caregivers in need of guidance,… Read more »

Wednesday, June 9, at 3:00 PM ET Register for the webinar. Nicole T. Jorwic, J.D, Senior Director of Public Policy at The Arc and an expert on the topic of home- and community-based services (HCBS) will provide an overview of the HCBS program and describes how it helps people living with paralysis access the supports… Read more »

The AARP Fraud Watch Network and Volunteers of America (VOA) created a new, free program to help you. It’s VOA | ReST, which stands for resilience, strength and time. The program is designed to address the emotional impact of your experience. We offer free facilitated peer-discussion groups that seek to provide emotional support for you… Read more »

Hartford HealthCare is hosting a Dementia Symposium for Health Care Professionals Wednesday, September 22, 2021, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Caring for a person with dementia is not intuitive and brings daily challenges. This symposium will provide greater insight into the most common forms of dementia, the disease progression and the effects on family and… Read more »

When: Thursday, June 17, 2021, at 11:00-12:00 P.T./2:00-3:00 E.T. Most people want to age in place and stay near their friends and family and in their community. This ideal can become complicated when housing becomes unstable or unaffordable, or when supportive services are not available in the home and community. This training will explore the intersection of… Read more »

Senior Resources Agency on Aging – Eastern CT announces that it is offering a Covid 19 related, short term funded program to pay for groceries and delivery to the home of older adults. “We are excited to offer this program to encourage older adults to get nutritious foods that theychoose delivered to their door,” said… Read more »

Register HERE.

By U.S. Health & Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra I remember working alongside my father during my youth paving and repairing Sacramento roads. My father was a strong man who woke up in the early morning hours every day, went to work, and returned home to do more work around the house. As he grew older,… Read more »

By Vicki Gottlich, Director, Center for Policy and Evaluation, ACL As we close Older Americans Month today, we wanted to call your attention to an important provision of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 that helps older people to live independently and participate in the community. Under Medicaid financial eligibility requirements for nursing home care, states… Read more »

New Factsheet: Medicare Home Health Coverage and Jimmo v. Sebelius Nursing Homes Fined for Infection Control Should Not Receive COVID-19 “Performance Based” Relief Funds New Fact Sheet | The Dental and Heart Disease Relationship Free Webinar | A Program for Medicare Beneficiaries – Coverage of Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies (DMEPOS) New Factsheet:… Read more »

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC)’s Emergency Broadband Benefit launched on May 12th. This benefit provides a discount of $50 per month for eligible low-income households or $75 per month for households on Tribal lands to cover internet bills, as well as discounts on some devices. This program can also be combined with Lifeline benefits. Reliable… Read more »

May Blog Now Available!    Dear Colleagues,    We are pleased to share a new blog by Sherrill Wayland, MSW, “LGBT Community Stands Strong Against Isolation During COVID.”   As the nation began to take shelter at home during the early days of the COVID-19 Pandemic, SAGE, a national advocacy and services organization for LGBT… Read more »

  Why bother giving essentially to an essential agency?  Good question !! NCAAA programs and counselors help keep people in their homes and independent in their communities for as long as possible:   We all have a preference about how we’d like to spend our later years. NCAAA helps support that; We advocate for the rights of… Read more »

Please join Attorney General William Tong, Department of Aging and Disability Services Commissioner Amy Porter, Long Term Care Ombudsman Mairead Painter and the Coalition for Elder Justice in Connecticut for a press conference at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 3 outside the Office of the Attorney General to launch Connecticut’s Elder Justice Hotline. Attorney General… Read more »

Alison Barkoff, Acting Administrator and Assistant Secretary for Aging Each year during Older Americans Month, we celebrate the vital contributions of the older adults whose knowledge, expertise, and talents make our communities stronger. We also celebrate the aging services network that works in every community across the country to empower older people to live independently,… Read more »

ACL has opened a new funding opportunity under the statutory authorities in Section 2922 of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 and Title IV of the Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended. The purpose of the National Technical Assistance Center (NTAC) on Kinship and Grandfamilies is to provide training, technical assistance, and… Read more »

Join your Elder Law Section colleagues at the Connecticut Legal Conference on June 15-17. The conference, being held virtually, will feature six national plenary speakers, including three New York Times best-selling authors, two MacArthur Fellows, one Pulitzer Prizing-winning author, one Fulbright Scholar, and one TED speaker as well as over 100 local leaders in the law.  Do not miss the HT01 Advocating for… Read more »

Resuming In-Person Visits During COVID-19: Tips for Identifying Trauma, Potential Abuse, and Supporting Residents Jun 18, 2021 03:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada) Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/tZUvdu6tpzMuHtduqqJqOlTCoGkqBXM4QFZa/success?user_id=9iyHXPyjQBq5imkSjQRUcw&timezone_id=America%2FNew_York

University of Connecticut Participants Wanted for a Research Study Identifying Neural Pathways Implicated in Older Adults’ Emotional Well-being          This study is designed to research and identify the underlying biological factors that promote better emotional well-being in older adults. Typically, older adults have a more positive affect and greater life satisfaction than younger adults due… Read more »

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the country has seen a significant increase in anxiety, depression, and other behavioral health conditions. Substance misuse has also increased significantly. To help communities grappling with these issues, last week, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced $3 billion in funding from the American Rescue Plan through the Mental Health… Read more »

Fraud Fighting Fourth Fridays: Powered by AARP CT & the Coalition for Elder Justice in CT shining a light on the scams in your community. Registration required separately for each virtual session. 5/28 @10AM:   A Team Approach to Keep Your Money & Family Safe!  Elder Law Attorney Steve Rubin and Kaushal Vaidya, care coordinator and… Read more »

Essential Giving for an Essential Agency  LET YOUR 2021 DONATION MAKE HISTORY !!                       1956 – INSURANCE CITY OPEN – ARNOLD PALMER’S FIRST US PGA TOUR WIN  1967 – INSURANCE CITY OPEN RENAMED GREATER HARTFORD OPEN– Charlie Sifford Wins ! 1973 – SAMMY DAVIS JR. GHO “PRO-AM” BEGINS– Billy Casper Wins… Read more »

FEMA Webinar: Avoid Scams and Fraud Targeting Older Adults Thursday, May 27, 2021 12:00 – 1:30 PM ET Register for the Webinar May is Older Americans Month, a time to build resilience and connections among older adults. Unfortunately, scammers often target older people for fraud and identity theft. Join the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)… Read more »

As part of Older Americans Month, the Federal Trade Commission and Identity Theft Resource Center are presenting a free webinar on Identity Theft & Older Adults. The webinar will take place on May 26, 2021 at 1:00pm EST. Please share this widely! The webinar details are included below. You don’t need to pre-register. Join us… Read more »

Registration:  https://aarp.cvent.com/PathwaysJune8 Quinnipiac University, AARP CT & Masonicare collaborate to bring universities and communities together for conversation and information in the space of age-inclusivity. The 3rd year of this annual effort, the theme, Pathways to Living in an Age-Inclusive Society offers you a virtual journey with us around the globe as we explore communities near… Read more »

Defending Older Adults from Home Equity Theft, “We Buy Houses,” and Foreclosure Rescue Scams When: Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at 11:00-12:00 P.T./2:00-3:00 E.T. The problem of home equity theft is rampant now that home values in many areas of the country have increased. Older homeowners who have built up equity over time are a frequent target of… Read more »

News from the Elder Justice Coalition   Older Americans Month Celebrates “Communities of Strength” Emerging from Difficult Year May is Older Americans Month and the 2021 theme, “Communities of Strength,” aims to recognize and honor the resilience of older Americans across the country and the Aging Network during the past year. This May, the White… Read more »

Communities of Strength through Service Edwin Walker, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging, ACL, and Atalaya Sergi, Director, AmeriCorps Seniors COVID-19 has changed so much of how we live, work, and connect with each other. We have had to adjust in unprecedented ways to protect ourselves and those around us. The pandemic has had a tremendous… Read more »

  Join the Network! NCAAA  2021-2024 Focal Point Applications now available! DUE JUNE 1st !!The North Central Area Agency on Aging, Inc. (NCAAA) invites organizations that serve older persons and their families to apply for designation as a community Focal Point.  Focal Point sites are visible, recognized places where members of a community can find information… Read more »

Community Care Corps, funded by the Administration for Community Living and administered by the Oasis Institute, has announced a Request for Proposals (RFP) for innovative local models in which volunteers assist family caregivers or directly assist older adults or adults with disabilities with non-medical care to maintain their independence. The RFP is now available to… Read more »

May 26 at 1:00PM Join AARP Connecticut and attendees from across the U.S. for a FREE Spanish Presentation of the Fraud Watch Network el 26 de mayo a la 1:00PM  Únete a AARP Connecticut y participantes a través de los Estados Unidos para una presentación gratuita en español de la Red de Contra el Fraude… Read more »

Thursday, May 20, 2021, 3:00-4:00 PM ET Webinar Registration As states across the country continue to reopen, organizations have a moment to look back, consider lessons learned, and think about changes moving forward with programs and services available to consumers. Join this webinar to hear how COVID has impacted caregivers and people living with dementia,… Read more »

Register HERE

Defending Against “Bad Behavior” Evictions in Nursing Facilities When: Wednesday, June 2, 2021, 11:00 a.m. PT / 2:00 p.m. ET Nursing facilities will often attempt to evict residents due to alleged “behaviors.” With few exceptions, these evictions are improper. Most “behaviors” stem from Alzheimer’s Disease or another dementia, and should be well within a nursing… Read more »

Register HERE.

The Department of Health and Human Services announced yesterday that the Office for Civil Rights will interpret and enforce Section 1557 and Title IX’s prohibitions on discrimination based on sex to include discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and discrimination on the basis of gender identity. Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act prohibits… Read more »

Keri Lipperini, Director, Office of Nutrition and Health Promotion Programs, ACL After more than a year of social distancing to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, we are more aware than ever before of the strength we draw from the people in our lives. We’ve missed sharing meals and activities at the senior center, easy… Read more »

Elder Abuse in the time of  COVID-19: Where are we Now? Join us for a webinar focusing on how the pandemic has impacted elder abuse and hear from a panel of local experts how we are combatting elder abuse on a local level.  Featuring: Paul Greenwood, Former San Diego District Attorney and Expert on Elder… Read more »

ACL Policy Update: American Rescue Plan’s Additional Funding for Medicaid HCBS By Alison Barkoff, Acting Administrator and Assistant Secretary for Aging COVID-19 has taken its toll on older adults and people with disabilities in many ways. In addition to increased risk of serious illness and death from COVID-19, many also faced the serious threat of being… Read more »

Governor Lamont Confirms Postponement of Nursing Home Strike Following Tentative Settlement Between Facility Owners and Healthcare Employees Union Posted on May 13, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that his administration has received copies of strike postponement notices to 26 nursing homes from District 1199, SEIU, and New England Health Care Employees… Read more »

Virtual U:  The History of Memorial Day and the Challenge of Remembering War:  Memorial Day began as Decoration Day, a simple offering of flowers on the graves of Union soldiers. The Civil War itself, the most deadly struggle in the nation’s history, forced a reckoning with death, sacrifice, and honor.  Ever since, Americans have looked with… Read more »

As we celebrate Older Americans Month and our “Communities of Strength” let us take a moment to address a component of strong communities clearly highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic: Access to reliable and affordable broadband service.  With heightened reliance on the internet for everything from at-home learning to online doctor’s appointments, the ability to access the… Read more »

Governor Lamont Signs Legislation Extending Telehealth Services for Another Two Years Posted on May 10, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has signed into law legislation that extends for another two years the relaxed telehealth services provisions that he previously enacted through an emergency executive order due to the COVID-19… Read more »

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) posted an interim final rule today, with a comment period, in the Federal Register.  The rule requires that facilities educate residents, resident representatives, and staff about the benefits and side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine and offer the vaccine to residents and staff when available.  They are… Read more »

Join Noah Fox as he shares his journey, experience and passion as a practicing artist and educator focused on engaging conversation, creativity and the art of storytelling into your work. Each workshop offers unique pathways towards understanding LGBTQIA+ communities and concepts while learning the tips and tools for engaging audiences in conversation that is fun… Read more »

(Hartford, CT)—Attorney General William Tong and Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle H. Seagull are asking Connecticut consumers to be wary of companies selling potentially faulty and unregulated over-counter-hearing aids. Connecticut law has long required that hearings aids may only be sold by licensed audiologists or hearing instrument specialists.  In 2017, the Food and Drug… Read more »

Here’s what we’re watching in Washington: Advocates Unite Around Expanding Medicaid HCBS As part of the American Jobs Plan, President Biden committed to investing $400 billion in Medicaid home- and community-based services (HCBS). Aging, disability, and labor organizations are united around ensuring this commitment becomes law. We are inviting advocates and other stakeholder organizations to… Read more »

The Emergency Broadband Benefit is a Federal Communication Commission (FCC) program to help families and households struggling to afford internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible households to jobs, critical healthcare services, virtual classrooms, and more. The FCC has announced that eligible households can apply for the program starting May 12, 2021 in… Read more »

The  CT CHOICES programs, an umbrella for three core AAA services (Medicare, Related Insurance Counseling, Information & Referral, and Benefit Eligibility Screening), provides free, objective, high-quality, and confidential information, counseling, and assistance to older adults and persons with disabilities enabling them to understand and exercise their rights, access and receive benefits to which they are… Read more »

Posted on May 6, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut Department of Public Health is partnering with the Connecticut chapters of nine historically African American, Greek-lettered fraternities and sororities to further combat COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and increase access to the vaccine within the state’s Black and Brown communities. The… Read more »

Over the course of the past year, COVID-19 has cast nursing homes and other living facilities into the spotlight. State of Connecticut’s Long Term Care Ombudsman Mairead Painter and Attorney Julia M. Brown will discuss the rights of residents and effective methods of advocating for residents from nursing home admission through to discharge. CLE Credits:… Read more »

The National Center on Elder Abuse and Keck School of Medicine of USC announces the release of a new research brief, “Ageism.” This research brief synthesizes research exploring the concept of ageism, its multifaceted forms, impacts, and redresses. Ageism is defined as the stereotyping, prejudice, and/or discrimination of individuals on the basis of their age.… Read more »

AOASCC News & Notes You Made a Difference!   Our heartfelt appreciation to all who gave to AOASCC through this year’s  Great Give sponsored by the Community Foundation of Greater New Haven.   Together we are continuing to help individuals remain safely at home, support caregivers & provide opportunities to stay healthy and engaged. A special… Read more »

Upcoming Events – Please Join us!  Registration is free and open to people of all ages. Unless otherwise noted, please go to www.AARP.org/CTEvents to register. Monday’s with Mark Twain in May:  Join us on 4 Mondays in May and explore history and adventure through virtual sessions with the Mark Twain House & Museum.  Each week… Read more »

Public Hearing Announcement – NCAAA Draft Area Plan   Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at 9:30  *Zoom Virtual Meeting* The Advisory Council of the North Central Area Agency on Aging cordially invites you to join us for a Public Hearing to share your comments on the agency’s DRAFT Area Plan for FFY 2022-2024.AREA PLANS in Statute:… Read more »

The aging network has risen to meet many challenges during COVID-19. Senior nutrition programs have adapted services, activities, and events to continue safely supporting their communities across the country. As states move toward resuming some in-person activities to support the nutritional, social, and wellness needs of older adults, programs will face new experiences and challenges,… Read more »

Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 1:00-2:30 PM ET Webinar Registration In observance of National Women’s Health Week, RIC will host this webinar exploring the challenges and barriers that women with disabilities face in accessing screenings and health services The event will highlight promising practices providers and health plans can employ to achieve better integrated, person-centered care. The… Read more »

Friday, May 21, 2:00 – 3:00 pm ET Register for the webinar. This webinar was rescheduled from April 23. The Aging Network has always played a vital role in ensuring older adults have access to the supports they need to remain healthy and independent. Yet months of staying home and being less active have taken… Read more »

A newsletter for residents of long-term care facilities. The May 2021 issue of The Resident Advocate is now available. The Resident Advocate provides: Information on residents’ rights and care issues  News and updates on national policy  Self-advocacy tips for obtaining person-centered, quality care This issue includes information on visitation, group activities, and quarantining, including recent CDC… Read more »

The Connecticut Coalition on Aging and Developmental Disabilities, the CT Department of Developmental Services, ADS CT State Unit on Aging, and the CT Chapter of the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities are pleased to celebrate “Older Americans Month” with our annual Aging Matters Conference.  When: May 26th from 1:00 – 2:30 Where: Online… Read more »

#OlderAmericansMonth Announcing $1.4B in ARP-funded grants to kick off Older Americans Month To kick off this year’s celebration of Older Americans Month, yesterday ACL issued grants totaling $1.4B to help older adults recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded through the American Rescue Plan, these grants to the aging services network in every state and territory… Read more »

Dear Friends,   We are excited to again announce our 2021 partnership with the Travelers Championship Birdies for Charity program. In 2019 with the money that Senior Resources – Agency on Aging raised through Birdies for Charity, we were able to continue to provide services that promote dignified aging throughout our region.   As a… Read more »

May Webinars | Register Now May 5, 2021, 2:00 – 3:15 PM EDT Geography is not Destiny: Mitigating Harm in SNFs During and After COVID 19 Sponsored by California Health Advocates Senior Medicare Patrol, this presentation will include a discussion of the Center’s recent research into nursing home successes and failures during the COVID pandemic,… Read more »

Medicare and Revenue – Looking Back, Looking Forward By Marilyn Moon, Center for Medicare Advocacy Visiting Scholar We are pleased to present a new Issue Brief by Marilyn Moon – “Ensuring Medicare’s Financial Health” – reviewing the fiscal solvency of Medicare and the Part A Trust Fund. Highlights are provided here. The full Brief is… Read more »

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Department of Public Health today announced that 27 municipalities and local health departments in Connecticut have been selected by the state to share in more than $13 million in federal grant money to be used to form partnerships between local health, community organizations, and vaccine providers… Read more »

May is Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month – a celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. A rather broad term, Asian-Pacific encompasses all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Melanesia (New Guinea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands), Micronesia (Marianas, Guam, Wake Island, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru… Read more »

CDC Relaxes COVID Guidance for Visits, Meals, and Other Communal Activities in Nursing Facilities In response to increased vaccination rates, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new guidance this week that lifts certain restrictions on visits, dining, and other communal activities for fully vaccinated persons. The broad principle is that masks and… Read more »

Starting tomorrow at 8 a.m., for 36 hours your donation is stretched when you give through the Great Give! Make a Difference! Here is one way your donation to AOASCC can make a difference.   Transportation remains the primary issue of concern for older adults. Medical Transportation is one of the greatest needs, and, while… Read more »

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont is encouraging Connecticut residents who need help paying last winter’s home heating bills to consider applying for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program. An extended application deadline of Tuesday, June 15, 2021, gives eligible families and individuals additional time to apply for this vital assistance. “The cold weather is behind… Read more »

Welcome to Medicare Virtual Fair Wednesday, June 23, 2021 Open 3:00-7:00 PM ET Agenda and Registration (available in English and Spanish) This virtual fair is for people turning 65, retiring, or joining Medicare because of a disability. Learn about Medicare and all its parts to help you in your enrollment decisions. There is no cost to… Read more »

Spread the word about WEAAD and your efforts to prevent elder abuse with us on social media. Using social media is an excellent way to engage our community around this important and timely subject. Below are some exciting events and tools for you to promote WEAAD 2021:  Check out our social media guide. This guide includes tips… Read more »

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2021 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing states with $1.135 billion from the American Rescue Plan Act to support and enhance their administration of  the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP) at a time when millions of Americans are struggling to put food on their tables. This is a unique opportunity… Read more »

Registration:  https://aarp.cvent.com/PathwaysJune8 Quinnipiac University, AARP CT & Masonicare collaborate to bring universities and communities together for conversation and information in the space of age-inclusivity. The 3rd year of this annual effort, the theme, Pathways to Living in an Age-Inclusive Society offers you a virtual journey with us around the globe as we explore communities near… Read more »

Just like an engine, our bodies need fuel to keep them running. We burn calories all day, every day as we breathe, sleep, talk, laugh, walk or exercise so we need to eat enough to meet these needs. For most of the population, we consume more calories than we need which results in storing fat;… Read more »

CUANDO3 de junio de 202114:00 – 15:00 horas ABIERTO A TODOS• Beneficiarios de Medicare• Cuidadores• Proveedores GRATISSin ventas ni trucos PROTEGER MEDICAREPrevenir, Detectar y denunciar fraudes, errores y abusos DÓNDEZOOMhttps://zoom.us/j/93102953354?pwd=OTZQSkNpT1NJQ0x0aFB5Rm9QMEIyUT09Identificación de la reunión: 931 0295 3354 Código de acceso:925552Opción de teléfono+1 929 436 2866 Preguntas o preinscripción disponibles en:www.seniorresourcesec.org860-887-3561 Ext 115, Alison Dvorak – SMP

Medical, Financial, and Identity scams can happen to anyone, especially older adults.Join us to learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones. May 20, 2021 * 3-4 pm * Free EventZoom:https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcpdeuhpzgvH9IuHmP4KSBZPXlkVzAfPUWz Miria Gray, Chelsea Groton Bank & Alison Dvorak, Senior Resources/Senior Medicare Patrol This project was supported, in part by grant number 90MPPG0044, from… Read more »

Applications due: Thursday, July 1, 2021, 12:00 PM ET View the Request for Proposals and apply The National Council on Aging (NCOA), through an ACL cooperative agreement, is seeking grant applications from organizations interested in becoming new Benefits Enrollment Centers (BECs). One year grants of up to $100,000 each will be awarded to qualified organizations to… Read more »

Conversation with National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care   Using the CMS Guidance to Open Nursing Home Doors Friday, April 30, 2021 2:00pm ET Register or Watch on Facebook Join us for a conversation about how residents, families and advocates can use guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to facilitate… Read more »

Posted on April 26, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that beginning Tuesday, April 27, 2021, more than 50 providers of COVID-19 vaccines in Connecticut will no longer require an appointment prior to providing individuals with vaccinations. Connecticut residents will be able walk-up to the clinic and receive a vaccination on-the-spot. For… Read more »

WEAAD 2021 Webinar The NCEA is pleased to announce the 2021 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) webinar, “Coming Back Strong After COVID-19: Federal Elder Justice Innovations and Resources” on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET.                                                                      In the face of the many challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the… Read more »

  Join the Network! NCAAA  2021-2024 Focal Point Applications now available!  The North Central Area Agency on Aging, Inc. (NCAAA) invites organizations that serve older persons and their families to apply for designation as a community Focal Point.  Focal Point sites are visible, recognized places where members of a community can find information and gain access… Read more »

Friday, May 21, 2021, 3:00-4:00 PM ET Webinar Registration This National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP) webinar shares highlights from a new NASHP report, Paying Family Caregivers through Medicaid Consumer-Directed Programs: State Opportunities and Innovations, that explores states’ fresh approaches to consumer-directed programs supporting older adults and people with physical disabilities. Programs that can… Read more »

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. Monday, May 3, 2021 4:00 PM ET Webinar Registration Join Aging Connected for a live discussion on how the digital divide, separating those with access to the internet and those without, intersects with aging. This public health and social justice crisis has left nearly… Read more »

The NCEA is pleased to share a NEW Fact Sheet, “Red Flags of Elder Abuse: Opioid Use.” Despite the complexity of this issue, opioid-related elder abuse is an injustice that we can address and prevent. Health care professionals must be aware of the signs of abuse to identify mistreatment and intervene to avert harm to… Read more »

ACL’s National Center on Elder Abuse is hosting a virtual awareness walk to commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Walk for WEAAD campaign begins May 1st, on the first day of Older Americans Month, and runs through June 15th, WEAAD. Sign up through April 30 to walk, run, or do any other activity to… Read more »

Elder abuse is truly a worldwide public health and human rights issue that demands a global, multifaceted response. This year, the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) is excited to collaborate with Aged Rights Advocacy Service (ARAS) in Australia to host two 30-minute Twitter Chats (#WEAADwave) to get us ready for WEAAD. RSVP now and… Read more »

New application requirements address racial equity and inclusionto improve program fairness   WASHINGTON, April 23, 2021 – The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) announced today that $5 million in competitive grants are being made available to improve access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and improve program quality and efficiency.   The SNAP Process… Read more »

Wednesday, May 5, 2021 12:00-1:30 PM ET Webinar Registration COVID-19 has made it harder for health plans and providers to connect with people dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid to identify needs, develop care plans, and provide ongoing care management. This webinar will feature experts in diabetes care management who have adjusted their approaches because of… Read more »

WASHINGTON, April 23, 2021 — Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is increasing food assistance to low-income seniors – a population that has been especially hard-hit by the pandemic – by providing nearly $37 million in additional support to the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). States and Tribal nations will receive the new funding from the… Read more »

Posted on April 24, 2021 The following is a statement from Acting Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Deidre Gifford on yesterday’s announcement by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that administration of the J&J COVID vaccine may resume: “With the announcement from the CDC and the… Read more »

The State of Connecticut Diverse Communities Outreach Taskforce has provide the following list of new resources for distribution. New Resources: Obtaining COVID-19 Services  For People Without Insurance (Spanish) ¿NO TIENE SEGURO DE SALUD? ¿NECESITA SERVICIOS RELACIONADOS CON EL COVID-19? When Ends Don’t Meet: A Forum On Supporting ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) Households Post… Read more »

Application deadline: May 3, 2021 View more details and application instructions Grant Opportunity CDC-RFA-OT21-2103 The CDC’s Center for State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Support (CSTLTS) has published a two-year Notice of Funding Opportunity: National Initiative to Address COVID-19 Health Disparities Among Populations at High-Risk and Underserved, Racial and Ethnic Minority Populations and Rural Communities. Funded through the… Read more »

The FCC is hosting a consumer-focused webinar on the Emergency Broadband Benefit  Tuesday, April 27, beginning at 3:00 PM ET.  The event will be streamed live on www.fcc.gov/live.  Registration is not required for the webinar.  The webinar will provide consumers and outreach partners with an overview of the Emergency Broadband Benefit program, eligibility information, and… Read more »

You may have temporary protection from eviction If you owe rent to your landlord, or are facing eviction, the CDC has issued an order that may protect you. In many cases, the CDC Order gives you the right to postpone eviction for not paying your rent until June 30, 2021. Learn more about how to… Read more »

Money Follows the Person (MFP) was recently extended for three years by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. The legislation also made two important changes that affect ACL’s networks and the people they serve. Since it was first authorized in 2005, the Money Follows the Person (MFP) program has helped states expand community living opportunities… Read more »

Smart technology gives people independence, but how secure is the “internet of things”? The second of three virtual seminars with The NEAT Center at Oak Hill will discuss safety concerns and cover five easy ways to secure your devices. Register Here

American Sign Language Videos Covering the COVID Basics On Symptoms, Treatments And Safety Check out #COVID19 American Sign Language videos created by @CDCgov in partnership w/ @CIDIaccess : https://cidi.gatech.edu/covid/asl COVID-19 Tools and Resources for People With Disabilities The State of Connecticut remains committed to ensuring the safety of residents with disabilities throughout the response and… Read more »

Wednesday, April 21, 2:30 – 4:30 pm EDT Register for the event. The White House COVID-19 Response Team and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is hosting a virtual forum – Breaking Down Barriers for People Who Have Challenges Accessing COVID-19 Vaccination. This event is an opportunity to share best practices and lessons learned… Read more »

Friday, April 23, 2:00 – 3:00 pm ET Register for the webinar. The Aging Network has always played a vital role in ensuring older adults have access to the supports they need to remain healthy and independent. Yet months of staying home and being less active have taken a toll on the well-being of many… Read more »

Dear Colleagues,     We are pleased to share a new blog by Sgt. Bernadette Smith from Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, “Good Neighbor Program: A Law Enforcement Program Worth Replicating.”    Strong community connections with law enforcement are essential to ensure we all age with dignity and respect. This was the impetus for the Douglas County… Read more »

You can RSVP here: http://SAGEUSA.ORG/CV-TOWNHALL

ACL’s COVID-19 Resources: What’s New Here is the latest from our COVID-19 resource page: Partners in the vaccination effort: The aging and disability networks play an important role in helping people with disabilities and older adults get vaccinated. Last month, ACL and CDC announced a partnership that will provide nearly $100 million to support these efforts.… Read more »

The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) is excited to announce our very first virtual awareness walk, Walk for WEAAD (World Elder Abuse Awareness Day)!   As we continue to take precautionary and preventive measures against COVID-19, let’s get active every day and collectively take steps to advance elder justice.   Build a national elder… Read more »

New Legal Guidance and Resources to Ensure — and Expand — Access to COVID-19 Vaccines for People with Disabilities and Older Adults As part of a shared commitment to President Biden’s National Strategy and Executive Order to ensure an equitable COVID-19 response, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), the Administration for Community Living (ACL), and… Read more »

Join us for the monthly virtual Fraud Fighting 4th Fridays shining a light on the scams taking place in your community. This month will offer a presentation of the AARP Fraud Watch Network for Spanish and English-speaking audiences. Register Here

The NCEA is pleased to announce a new checklist, “Home is Where the Heart Is.” Ensuring the health and welfare of our friends and family is of the utmost importance, even if you’re caring for them from distance.  Whether you are visiting over a long weekend or checking in over the phone, this checklist will… Read more »

AARP Connecticut is looking for amazing people like you to volunteer their time, skills, and knowledge to make a difference and improve the quality of life for residents of all ages. AARP volunteers have the opportunity to share their wisdom; benefit from high-quality training and education; enjoy stimulating challenges and meet new people; and know… Read more »

Thursday, April 22, 3:00 – 4:30 pm ET Register for the webinar. Despite an unprecedented shortage of affordable and accessible housing, today many low-income older adults and people with disabilities in congregate and institutional settings urgently need to transition to affordable and accessible housing in the community. This webinar provides strategies and best practices to… Read more »

Older adults have built resilience and strength over their lives through successes, failures, joys, and difficulties. Their stories and contributions help to support and inspire others. This OAM, we will celebrate the strength of older adults and the Aging Network, with special emphasis on the power of connection and engagement in building strong communities. Have… Read more »

Senior Resources Area on Aging of Eastern CT’s April Newsletter can be viewed at NYCUApril2021.pdf (seniorresourcesec.org) Find out what events and programs are being offered this month in Eastern CT!

      Just a reminder that the deadline for submissions is coming up quickly!   Find Out More & Register Here     Are you passionate about painting or photography? Share your talent with us!   All individuals aged 60 and over are welcome to submit photography, drawings or paintings. There is no entry fee… Read more »

NCOA is proud to host the 4th annual Older Adult Mental Health Awareness Day Symposium. This event is co-sponsored with the U.S. Administration for Community Living and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Registration is free and includes a full day of sessions on how to best meet the mental health needs of older… Read more »

Tuesday, April 13, 2021 2:00:00 PM EDT – 3:00:00 PM EDT Consumers report losing approximately $500 million per year to phone scams. Phone scammers often impersonate government officials, such as officials with the Social Security Administration, FBI, IRS, and local law enforcement entities. This webinar will discuss what the scams are and how they work.… Read more »

CMS Rescinds Emergency Waivers Related to Notice Prior to Discharge/Transfer, Care Planning, and Submission of Minimum Data Set; Maintains Waivers Related to Nurse Aide Training On April 8, 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rescinded three emergency waivers of regulations in place since the beginning of the pandemic.  The waivers that were… Read more »

Join us for the virtual Fraud Fighting 4th Fridays – Powered by AARP CT & the Coalition for Elder Justice in CT to shine a light on the scams taking place in your community. This month we invite Migdalia Cruz & Marilyn Diaz to offer a presentation of the AARP Fraud Watch Network for Spanish… Read more »

If you or someone you care for is physically or medically unable to leave their home to get the COVID-19 vaccine, please fill out this online homebound vaccination intake form: https://dphsubmissions.ct.gov/homebound. This form includes the criteria for homebound eligibility. Once submitted online, the intake forms are sent to each town on a weekly basis. With… Read more »

Thursday, April 15, 2021, 3:00 PM ETRegister for this Webinar Connectivity is an essential part of everyday life during the COVID-19 pandemic. A connected device with internet access provides a gateway to social engagement with family and friends while practicing physical distancing; healthcare services; remote work and school; and supplies and meals.  The Emergency Broadband… Read more »

Please send your response to [email protected]     The NCEA has recently become aware of potentially concerning cases with a similar fact pattern:   Older adults retain caregivers. The caregivers work their regular shifts, then request to sleep at their client’s home overnight to avoid traffic or a long drive home. No caregiving services are… Read more »

To Access Newsletter: https://conta.cc/3sRXP3H

On Monday, March 29, 2021. the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) extended the federal eviction moratorium through June 30, 2021. In addition, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) will launch a new effort to increase awareness of the moratorium’s protections and work with the Federal Trade Commission to enforce penalties against landlords who… Read more »

Join AARP CT and the Bristol Public Library as the offer a virtual series featuring topics that offer information and conversation.  Featured sessions offer attendees a 45 min presentation followed by a live moderated Q & A on the topic. 4/13/2021 @ 6:30 PM Work at Age 50+: Strategies for a Successful Job Search Workshop… Read more »

President Biden announced the American Jobs Plan, a $2 trillion investment in infrastructure and jobs. It includes a $400 billion investment to expand access to Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS), a top priority for Justice in Aging and our partners. The plan calls for expanding access to and quality of HCBS to help more older… Read more »

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), June 15th, serves as a call-to-action for individuals, organizations, and communities to bring attention to the issue of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. ACL and the National Center on Elder Abuse are excited to share new & updated tools designed to help you generate awareness about elder abuse, at any… Read more »

Friday, April 16, 1:15 – 2:45 PM EST Register for the webinar. COVID inoculation rates in U.S. minority communities are lower compared to white communities. Studies show that causes of lower vaccination rates include inaccessibility of vaccination sites, language barriers, deportation fears by undocumented immigrants, the digital divide, misinformation about vaccine effectiveness and safety, lack of trust in government… Read more »

ACL is seeking stakeholder input on potential changes to the National Adult Maltreatment Reporting System (NAMRS). The purpose of NAMRS is to increase understanding of adult maltreatment as investigated by adult protective service (APS) programs. NAMRS has collected administrative and program data from APS programs across the country since 2016. The Office of Management and Budget… Read more »

Ensures COVID-19 Relief Reaches Those Struggling the Most   WASHINGTON, April 1, 2021 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today took action to provide $1 billion per month in additional food assistance to an estimated 25 million people in very low-income households that are participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and struggling to… Read more »

by Alison Barkoff, Acting Administrator and Assistant Secretary for Aging April 2, 2021 In a briefing by President Biden on Monday about the nation’s vaccination efforts, he announced a new initiative to support vaccine access for people with disabilities and older adults. The initiative will provide ACL with almost $100 million in new funding from the CDC to provide grants… Read more »

April is National Financial Capability Month. This month we are encouraged to take the time to understand and spread awareness of barriers to financial well-being. Approximately 1 in 20 persons over the age of 60 will experience some sort of financial exploitation putting their ability to pay for daily needs at risk.     Learn… Read more »

On March 10, 2021, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued revised visitation guidance.  The guidance eases some of the restrictions on general indoor visitation while maintaining much of the guidance from September 17, 2020. Highlights include: -Facilities should allow indoor visitation at all times and for all residents except in certain specific circumstances.… Read more »

Join the YWCA New Britain Sexual Assault Crisis Service during April to learn more! Click on the calendar below to see the schedule of events. To register or learn more go to the YWCA New Britain Facebook page at facebook.com/SACSYWCA

Join AARP CT for this 2-Part Virtual Wellness Series offered to help you navigate your personal wellness with the changing environment we are all navigating together. The session features professionals from the healthcare field that offer pathways for managing stress and anxiety to learning about evidence-based medical research on the body -mind connection.  Live sessions,… Read more »

Webinar Wednesdays of Inspiration & Discovery Join us for a series of inspirational and educational Webinar Wednesdays in April, all free. Explore ways to manage stress and anxiety, and the link between mental health and physical activity with our Virtual Wellness Series; hear an award-winning songwriter tell her inspiring journey of transformation after an accident;… Read more »

ACL has released a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) to establish a cooperative agreement to operate a National Resource Center on Nutrition and Aging (NRCNA). The NRCNA will provide training, technical assistance, and support to ACL discretionary grantee recipients and Senior Nutrition Program Title III-C network organizations in every state, territory, and the District of Columbia.… Read more »

ACL has opened two new funding opportunities under the Lifespan Respite Care Program. Lifespan Respite Care Programs are coordinated systems of accessible, community-based respite care services that reduce duplication of effort and help to develop respite care infrastructures at the state and local levels. Grants to New States and States Re-Establishing Their Core Respite Infrastructures… Read more »

Join us as we look inside the mind of a criminal.  These sessions in collaboration with our community libraries, offers you tips and tools to share with friends and family on how you can avoid being a victim of these predators.  This virtual conversation is open to anyone of any age offering you an opportunity… Read more »

Posted on March 30, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Public Health Acting Commissioner Dr. Deidre Gifford today announced plans to provide local health departments in Connecticut and their community partners with $33.3 million in federal funding to establish outreach, education, and services for minority and traditionally underserved communities, as part of… Read more »

Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do post-vaccination, according to health experts by Michelle Crouch, AARP, March 19, 2021  En español | If it has been at least two weeks since you received your last dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, congratulations! You are now considered “fully vaccinated.” You are armed with our best weapon against a virus that… Read more »

ACL has released two Innovations in Nutrition (INNU) Funding Opportunities Announcements (FOAs) to establish cooperative agreements to conduct research projects that enhance the quality, effectiveness, and outcomes of nutrition programs and services within the aging services network.  Innovations in Nutrition Programs and Services – Statewide Research                                (HHS-2021-ACL-AOA-INNU-0092) Applications are due on May 24, 2021. The purpose of… Read more »

The new acl.gov/COVID-19: You may have noticed that our COVID-19 page has a new look. On the relaunched site we’ve reorganized our resources to create a few new pages: –Resources for Older Adults, People with Disabilities, Families, and Caregivers –Resources for the Aging and Disability Networks –Ensuring Equity and Inclusion –COVID-19 Webinars Speaking of webinars… Read more »

CDC and ACL will provide nearly $100 million in grants to help older adults and people with disabilities get vaccines March 29, 2021- This afternoon, President Biden announced several actions to expand access to COVID-19 vaccines, including an exciting partnership between ACL and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to increase vaccine access… Read more »

In early April, FEMA will begin providing financial assistance for funeral expenses for deaths related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The assistance will be available nationwide to families who incurred eligible funeral expenses after January 20, 2020. For more information and eligibility criteria, view the COVID-19 funeral assistance program webpage.

Through this funding opportunity, the Administration for Community Living plans to award approximately 10 cooperative agreements to domestic public or private non-profit entities. The intent of these awards is to provide funding directly to community-based organizations (CBOs) either serving or interested in serving as a Network Lead Entity to develop Community Integrated Health Networks that… Read more »

We are proud to introduce ourNCAAA Advisory Council for 2021-2022   Anne Cohn Betty Davis Paula Corrao George Ducharme Douglas B. Engwall – Co-Chairperson  Elizabeth Forrest William Gallagher Janet Goldberg Marc Goldstein – Co-Chairperson Catherine Palazzi Isabel Osorio-Vasquez Pamela Smith-Hillborn  John Sullivan C. Wendell Wickersham, III, M.D. – Secretary Our Advisory Council participates by…. Helping us fulfill… Read more »

Thursday, April 1, 2021, 12:30-2:00 PM ET Webinar Registration Individuals dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 infection and are hospitalized with COVID-19 at a rate three times higher than Medicare-only beneficiaries. As COVID-19 vaccines become more readily available, it’s critical that high-risk individuals are provided equitable access to… Read more »

NCEA’s blog, “Hollywood’s Spotlight on Guardianship” by Julie Schoen, JD, and Bonnie Olsen, Ph.D. is now available!    Netflix’s latest production “I Care A Lot” is a story depicting a harrowing fictional journey into the dark side of our guardianship system. This provocative film provides a gruesome, although exaggerated depiction of what unfortunately occurs in… Read more »

We are proud to introduce ourNCAAA Board of Directors Officersand new members for 2021-2022 President:  Lt. William MeierFirst Vice President:  Colleen MasseSecond Vice President:  Laura BeckerTreasurer:  Jennifer Dexter-DiPietroSecretary:  Damian Humphrey New Members:  Vicie Brooks & Angela Shenk For a full list of our Board of Directors, please check out our website at www.ncaaact.orgOur actively involved… Read more »

March 25, 2021 Dear Friends, I invite you to the Center’s upcoming special event next week. We would be honored if you would join us to help kick off the Center’s anniversary celebrations at our 8th Annual National Voices of Medicare Summit & Sen. Jay Rockefeller Lecture on April 1, 2021 — 35 years to the day since the Center… Read more »

Every May, the Administration for Community Living leads the observance of Older Americans Month (OAM).  This year’s theme is “Communities of Strength.”  This OAM celebrates the strength of older adults and the Aging Network, with special emphasis on the power of connection and engagement in building strong communities.  Promotional materials are available for OAM including… Read more »

When: Tuesday, March 30, 2021, 11:00 a.m. PT / 2:00 p.m. ET Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve seen how long-standing health inequities for people of color and people with disabilities have caused disproportionate illnesses and deaths. And now we’re seeing these inequities persist in vaccine distribution. This webinar, Getting the Vaccine to Communities That Need… Read more »

Join us as we celebrate National Nutrition Month with this virtual conversation offered by Registered Dietician, Alison Dvorak, MS, RDN, CD-N.  There is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition and health.  We are all unique with different bodies, goals, backgrounds and tastes!  Join Alison as she invites you into her virtual kitchen to discuss ways to… Read more »

It was 11 years ago today that the Elder Justice Act (EJA) became law as part of the Affordable Care Act. It has been viewed then and now as a landmark measure representing the strongest federal response to the crisis of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.   Over the past four months, this law has accelerated… Read more »

People have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine. In order to build vaccine confidence, the CDC has shared answers for some Frequently Asked Questions found below and attached to this email. Please feel free to share this information with your friends, family, co-workers and community members. Go to: Frequently Asked Questions about the COVID-19 Vaccine

New CMS Guidance Will Help Residents Stay Connected Since March 2020, Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs have heard the voices of residents and their loved ones:  “I thought that you had forgotten about me!” “I think about dying.” “I look through the window at my husband and can see that he has lost weight; I’m not… Read more »

WASHINGTON, March 22, 2021 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today a 15 percent increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through September 2021, providing an estimated $3.5 billion to households experiencing food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding is made possible by President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, which invests federal resources to… Read more »

Wednesday, March 31 at 12:00 – 1:00 pm ET Register for the Webinar During this program, attendees will hear from speakers from across regions who have responded to the needs of communities and families affected by the coronavirus pandemic and natural disasters, along with an opportunity for others to share their best practices and tips.… Read more »

Transportation resources exist across the state to help individuals get to their COVID-19 vaccination appointments. Providers and local community services have been effectively meeting the transportation needs of their communities, ensuring that transportation is not a barrier to vaccination. If you or someone you’re assisting does not have transportation access, please utilize the resources below… Read more »

  Espanol -Emergency Rental Assistance for Connecticut’s Economy-  Acting through the Department of Housing (DOH), the State of Connecticut is developing the UniteCT Program. This $235million program will provide rental and utility payment assistance to qualified Connecticut households financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The intention of UniteCT is to help stabilize Connecticut’s Rental Housing… Read more »

Tuesday, April 27, 2021 1:00-2:00 PM ET Webinar Registration Community health workers provide support services to people living with dementia and their caregivers. Services may include home wellness and safety checks, help understanding and accessing services, and dementia-focused interventions. Studies have shown many benefits to using community health workers, such as improved health outcomes and… Read more »

 Safety is first, and as the NCEA team continues to follow physical distancing guidelines and work remotely from our homes, we are thankful to remain connected through technology. We have been exploring creative ways to spark global awareness about elder abuse this year, and we hope to inspire you to develop a public service announcement… Read more »

As we continue to celebrate National Social Work month we encourage you to read and share the National Center for Elder Abuse new blog post: “Social Work and Elder Justice: A Mutually Essential Relationship” by Chris Herman, MSW, LICSW. This article captures the importance of the role that our Social Work colleagues play in preventing… Read more »

RAISE Family Caregiving Advisory Council Upcoming Virtual Full Council Meeting Wednesday, April 28, 2021, 12:30 – 4:30 PM ET ACL is pleased to announce the eighth Full Council Meeting of the RAISE Family Caregiving Advisory Council on April 28, 2021. The agenda for the meeting will be posted on the RAISE webpage prior to the meeting.  Online Attendance:… Read more »

Department of Justice, Elder Justice Initiative Presentation:   Consumers report losing approximately $500 million per year to phone scams.  Phone scammers often impersonate government officials, such as officials with the Social Security Administration, FBI, IRS, and local law enforcement entities.  This webinar will discuss what the scams are and how they work.  It will delve… Read more »

Powered by AARP CT & the Coalition for Elder Justice in CT shining a light on the scams in your community. This month Kathleen Titsworth from the CT Department of Banking will offer some trivia and tips on financial fraud protection.  Learning can be fun and informative, join us for a virtual Financial Fraud Bingo!… Read more »

CHOICES New Team Member Online Trainings 2021 CHOICES, Connecticut’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), is accepting applications for our 2021 New Team Member Training sessions. CHOICES is part of a national network of SHIP agencies that offers free, confidential counseling, education and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries, their caregivers, and the general public. CHOICES is… Read more »

Join our upcoming Consumer Voice Member Call to hear about the latest happenings in DC – what was in the COVID-relief packages, including the American Rescue Plan Act that support elder justice and ombudsman work, and impact those receiving long-term care and services; and hear about the policy issues Consumer Voice staff are working on,… Read more »

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched an Emergency Broadband Benefit Program to help households struggling to pay for internet service during the pandemic. This new benefit will connect eligible households to jobs, critical healthcare services, and virtual classrooms. The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service… Read more »

Posted on March 16, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Attorney General William Tong are warning Connecticut residents to be on alert for potential scams related to COVID-19 vaccines. The Office of the Attorney General and the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection have recently learned of a new scam in which fraudsters, posing… Read more »

Posted on March 15, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont, members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation, and Connecticut Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno today announced the launch of UniteCT, a new state program to provide rental and utility assistance to qualified Connecticut households financially impacted by COVID-19. As further detailed in the program guidelines, UniteCT may… Read more »

Posted on March 15, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is accelerating Connecticut’s age-based rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine to proceed on a quicker schedule than was originally anticipated when it was announced last month. The revised schedule, which tentatively plans for the vaccine to expand to all adults over… Read more »

Vaccine safety continues to be a top priority at CDC as COVID-19 vaccines are authorized or approved and recommended for use. CDC relies on several systems to monitor vaccine safety including v-safe, a new, smartphone-based tool. You may already be familiar with v-safe, which uses text messaging and web surveys to provide personalized health check-ins after someone receives… Read more »

Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued its first set of recommendations on activities that people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can safely resume. The new guidance—which is based on the latest science — includes recommendations for how and when a fully vaccinated individual can visit with other people who are fully vaccinated and with… Read more »

The ADA Council on Dental Practice is seeking subject matter experts on geriatrics, dental treatment in long-term care facilities, mobile dentistry care delivery, or teledentistry for access to care of geriatric patients, to volunteer for the National Elder Care Advisory Committee. The committee’s goals are to advise the Council on: How to educate the dental… Read more »

When: Wednesday, March 24, 2021, at 11:00-12:15 P.T./2:00-3:15 E.T. Due to economic stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic, many older homeowners and other borrowers have a home mortgage that is currently in forbearance (meaning the duty to make payments has been temporarily suspended). As the forbearance period ends, advocates will have a role in providing assistance to… Read more »

When: Wednesday, April 7, 2021, 11:00 a.m. PT / 2:00 p.m. ET The “typical” nursing facility admission presents a host of problems for the older person seeking assistance. Often, the prospective resident is making a rushed decision, possibly after an unexpected hospitalization. The admission agreement may bind the resident to arbitration of future disputes, or… Read more »

Consumer Voice Statement on the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 March 11, 2021. Today, President Biden signed into law the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The law directs $450 million to support care in skilled nursing facilities and $10 million for long-term care ombudsman programs. Also included is additional funding support to states… Read more »

On March 1, 2021, the New York Times published an column by Paul Krugman titled “Too Much Choice is Hurting America”.  Mr. Krugman discusses how “Economics 101 and conservative ideology say that more choice is always a good thing.”   He concludes, though, that the “spread of this ideology” means we live in “a country in… Read more »

HUD’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes has announced $30 million in grant funds and training resources to non-federal entities to establish the Older Adults Home Modification Grant Program. The grant program will assist experienced nonprofits, state and local governments, and public housing authorities in programs that make home modifications and limited repairs… Read more »

Today (March 11, 2021) at 3:30 p.m. (EST), CMS will host a call with stakeholders to discuss the updated guidance for nursing home visitation published yesterday. The call will be held via Zoom; advance registration is required. The updated guidance recommends expanding indoor visitation in nursing homes overall, while adhering to the core principles of… Read more »

March 10, 2021. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), issued updated guidance today for nursing homes to safely expand visitation options during the COVID-19 pandemic public health emergency (PHE).  This latest guidance comes as more than three million doses of vaccines have… Read more »

The arrival of the COVID-19 vaccine has been announced and unfortunately scammers will use this as an opportunity to obtain sensitive information. An email that may appear to be coming from Pfizer or Moderna, images below, is being sent to people asking them to take a survey in exchange for a reward. This is not… Read more »

Join ACL’s Adult Protective Services Technical Assistance Resource Center to learn about the new Adult Maltreatment Screening and Assessment Tools Inventory. The webinar will review the process for developing the Tools Inventory, including how tools were rated for their evidence base; describe how it is organized and what information it contains; and explore which tools are included and… Read more »

In celebration of the March anniversary of the Older Americans Act (OAA) Nutrition Program, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) is hosting weekly webinars throughout the month of March.  The webinar series will focus on understanding the intent of the Older Americans Act and address nutrition, socialization, and health and well-being.  Join us on Thursday, March… Read more »

A conversation with Nicholas R. Nicholson Jr., PhD, MPH, RN, PHCNS-BC who created the Zero Isolation Program:  Building Socially Integrated Communities.  Learn how AARP is collaborating on this evidence-based program designed to support students and community professionals interested in learning and working with older adults.  Attendees will hear from Dr. Nicholson, those trained to offer… Read more »

When: Tuesday, March 16, 11:00 a.m. PT / 2:00 p.m. ET Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) is an umbrella term that describes a wide variety of programs states operate to provide long-term services and supports to people in their homes and communities, as opposed to nursing facilities and other institutions. Medicaid is the largest payer… Read more »

The Board of Directors and staff of theNorth Central Area Agency on Agingcordially invites you to attend our2021 Virtual Annual Meeting…Older Adults & the Tech Divide:  Aging Services’ New Mandate Featuring Keynote Speaker Donna B. Fedus,Gerontologist & FounderBorrow My Glasses  REGISTRATION IS OPEN ! Wednesday, March 31st, 20218:30am – 10:00am To register, please select the FIND OUT MORE boxbelow… Read more »

        Are you passionate about painting or photography? Share your talent with us!   This is our 9th year celebrating older artists in our community. This year our exhibition will again be virtual.  The gallery will be posted on our website for individuals to “walk through” during the month of May.    All… Read more »

A report commissioned by AARP and FINRA released the following article which discusses what drives a person to repeatedly become a victim and what interventions can be used to disrupt the cycle. Click here to read the article.

Senate Joins House in Approving $276 Million in Emergency Elder Justice Funding The Senate has joined the House in passing a new covid-19 relief bill, also known as the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Their vote came on Saturday.   Since there are differences between the two bills, the measure needs to return to the… Read more »

This week the Senate took up the American Rescue Plan (H.R. 1319), which was passed by the House last weekend. The Senate is expected to pass an amended version by the end of the week and send it back to the House to work out the differences. The Senate’s amendments include cutting off the stimulus… Read more »

The State of Connecticut Diverse Communities Outreach Taskforce has provided the resources below to help keep stakeholders informed of the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other pandemic-related information. Hopefully this information will be useful as you continue to serve the public during this worldwide health crisis and that you please distribute these resources… Read more »

Hear about COVID-19, Vaccine, Romance, employment and imposter scams March 23, 2021 from 3:15-4:45 PM Speakers: Robin E. Eichen, Senior Attorney, Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Audrey Cole, Senior Medicare Patrol Coordinator of Volunteers No registration required. Join the ZOOM MEETING on March 23 at link below: Join ZOOM MEETING OR Call for an invitation and… Read more »

The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care is Hosting Their Annual Conference November 3-5, 2021. We are going virtual again for the 2021 Consumer Voice Annual Conference! Our virtual conference will feature expert speakers, the most up-to-date policy information, best practices shared from across the country, and networking with a community of other long-term… Read more »

In celebration of the March anniversary of the Older Americans Act Nutrition Program, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) is hosting weekly webinars throughout the month of March.  The webinar series will focus on understanding the intent of the Older Americans Act and address nutrition, socialization, and health and well-being.  Join us on Thursday, March 11th from 3:00… Read more »

In celebration of the March anniversary of the Older Americans Act (OAA) Nutrition Program, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) is hosting weekly webinars throughout the month of March.  The webinar series will focus on understanding the intent of the Older Americans Act and address nutrition, socialization, and health and well-being.  Join us on Thursday, March… Read more »

The U.S. Access Board in partnership with the Office of Disability Employment Policy, the Administration for Community Living, and other agencies has launched a virtual public forum on autonomous vehicle accessibility to promote accessibility for people with disabilities in the design of autonomous vehicles (AVs). Share your thoughts, ideas and comments on considerations for the… Read more »

Work at Age 50+: Strategies for a Successful Job Search Workshop Participants will learn about the essentials any 50+ job seeker must consider and hear about free resources available from AARP and others. Specific focus areas include digital and social media platforms, personal branding, networking and age-proofing your resume. 3/10/2021 @ 7PM Please go to… Read more »

The Department of Aging and Disability Services, State Unit on Aging has produced the videos below to promote the vaccination of individuals 55+. Videos are available in English and Spanish. Please distribute widely to your network! Information for those over 55 (Please watch the videos below for more information) Spanish 30 second YouTube video Spanish… Read more »

During the coronavirus pandemic, actions taken by both the public and private sector – including moratoriums on foreclosures and evictions – have prevented many Americans from losing their homes, but many legal protections are set to expire in the months ahead. New CFPB research finds that over 11 million people – nearly 10 percent of… Read more »

Application deadline April 26, 2021. **Informational conference call March 3, 2021. Details below. View more details and application instructions Grant Opportunity HHS-2021-ACL-AOA-ADPI-0083 ACL has announced a grant opportunity that seeks to support and promote the development and expansion of dementia-capable home and community-based service (HCBS) systems in states and communities.  There are two application options contained in… Read more »

The Elder Justice Coalition today offered high praise for the House passage of the American Rescue Plan which includes $276 million in new funding for the Elder Justice Act.   The legislation is the latest installment in pandemic relief packages but the first under President Biden. The additional $276 million comes just two months after Congress… Read more »

Respond by March 22, 2021 Take the Survey (estimated 15 minutes to complete) The Center on Aging and Trauma of The Jewish Federations of North America’s Holocaust Survivor Initiative, invites organizations to participate in a national survey on Person-Centered, Trauma-Informed (PCTI) Care. This ACL grantee is working to build the capacity of aging service providers to provide PCTI… Read more »

A conversation with Nicholas R. Nicholson Jr., PhD, MPH, RN, PHCNS-BC who created the Zero Isolation Program:  Building Socially Integrated Communities.  Learn how AARP is collaborating on this evidence-based program designed to support students and community professionals interested in learning and working with older adults.  Attendees will hear from Dr. Nicholson, those trained to offer… Read more »

Register for Part I: Thursday, March 4, 3:00 – 4:30 pm ET. Register for Part II: Thursday, March 18, 3:00 – 4:30 pm ET. This webinar was originally scheduled on 2/18 and rescheduled. Please register for the two webinars above to receive the new links to attend.   The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) has left many older… Read more »

        2021 CHOICES Training Registration Now OPEN!     CHOICES helps Connecticut’s older adults and persons with disabilities with Medicare understand their Medicare coverage and healthcare options.   Certified CHOICES counselors across the state provide free, unbiased and objective counseling so Medicare beneficiaries can make informed choices about their benefits.   To… Read more »

Help to Reduce Social Isolation and Loneliness The National Institute on Aging (NIA) Invites You to Spread the Word #CommitToConnect Many older adults feel socially isolated and lonely, which leaves them vulnerable to related health problems such as cognitive decline, depression, and heart disease. To increase awareness of this issue, NIA invites you to join… Read more »

Preview in new tab From the ACL Blog ACL Advocacy: Visitation in Congregate Settings February 24, 2021 by Vicki Gottlich, Director, ACL’s Center for Policy and Evaluation Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, ACL has worked with the HHS Office for Civil Rights, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and other partners to protect the rights of people with… Read more »

The bipartisan Elder Justice Coalition today called on the White House COVID-19 Task Force to include warnings about vaccine-related scams in their daily briefing.   In an email to Jeff Zients, Coordinator of the White House’s COVID-19 Response Task Force, the Coalition said, “We are receiving daily reports about older adults being subjected to and… Read more »

Join us for a very special 2021 4-part virtual tour series with the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. Each tour will feature a different docent lead theme. You may join us for any or all free virtual tours, but please be sure to register separately.  Remaining dates: 3/3/2021 @1PM:  Hudson River School Artists  3/24/2021 @7PM: … Read more »

Join the Center for Medicare Advocacy (CMA) as they celebrate 35 years of Medicare advocacy at their 8th Annual National Voices of Medicare Summit & Senator Jay Rockefeller Lecture on Thursday, April 1st 1:00pm-4:00pm ET.  The virtual presentation will feature Dr. Donald Berwick, President Emeritus and Senior Fellow at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement and… Read more »

Join AARP CT and the University of St. Joseph as they collaborate to offer a Spring Summit that welcomes students, academics, professionals, members of the community and advocates for a conversation on aging.  The session will focus on global aging, the international response to the aging trend along with other topics impacting individuals and their… Read more »

This event is hosted by Bloomfield Library and offers a virtual journey through the experiences of family caregivers, the backbone of our health care system.  Learn about support for caregivers and care recipients, as well as choices to live safely and independently.  Learn to navigate and connect to resources to gain an understanding of care… Read more »

(HARTFORD, CT) – In an effort to ensure that Connecticut continues taking the most equitable and efficient approach to quickly administering the COVID-19 vaccine to as many people as possible, Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the state will continue with an age-based approach to expanding eligibility to the vaccine, explaining that other previously considered… Read more »

Medicaid 101 When: Tuesday, March 9, 2021, at 11:00-12:00 P.T./2:00-3:00 E.T. Understanding Medicaid is key to understanding the health and long-term care delivery system for older adults. Every year, over 7 million older adults rely on Medicaid to pay for necessary health services. Over two-thirds of all older adults who receive long-term care in their homes or… Read more »

DPH has released a number of vaccine resources, written in several different languages, to reach diverse communities. Please use freely! Facts about the COVID-19 Vaccine: English, Haitian Creole, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish COVID-19 Vaccine: Facts You Need to Know: English How Did the COVID-19 Vaccine Get Developed So Quickly?: English, Haitian Creole, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish How Does the COVID-19 Vaccine Work?:… Read more »

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that his administration is partnering with Health Equity Solutions on an outreach program to ensure the state makes contact with as many people as possible with information about the COVID-19 vaccine, particularly among communities that have historically been disproportionately impacted in access to health care. The nonprofit organization, which… Read more »

Powered by AARP CT & the Coalition for Elder Justice in CT shining a light on the scams in your community. This month Berkshire Bank Foundation offers a conversation on the practices of financial institutions in keeping your money safe from scammers. Learn about the evolution of fraud from paper to digital to how training… Read more »

Training Opportunities for Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance The CT Healthy Living Collective, in partnership with the CT Department of Aging and  Disability Services – State Unit on Aging, is pleased to announce three training opportunities  for the Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance (TJQMBB) program. Click here to register. Funding Opportunity… Read more »

SOUPER HERO THURSDAY As a thank you to all our professional partners, we invite you to stop by Academy Point on Thursday, February 25th between 3 and 5PM to pick up a delicious meal for two!  This week’s menu: Broccoli Cheddar Soup, Steak Salad and Dessert Reservations are a must!! Call 860-536-1133 by 2/23 to… Read more »

Provided by the National Center on Law & Elder Rights (NCLER) The severe winter weather of the past week has left many households without heat and electricity. For older adults and other at-risk populations, the loss of utilities can exacerbate health conditions. Poor road conditions also further isolate individuals and impact access to essentials and supportive services. Legal… Read more »

Wednesday, February 24, 2021 2:00-3:00 PM ET WEBINAR REGISTRATION Senior housing offers a space for older adults to engage and connect with their fellow residents and build a sense of community. While the pandemic has called for physical distancing, the Aging Network has found creative ways to continue offering opportunities for engagement to address social… Read more »

In celebration of the March anniversary of the Older Americans Act Nutrition Program, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) will be holding weekly webinars throughout the month.  The webinar series will focus on understanding the intention of the act and address the trifecta of nutrition, socialization, and health and well-being.  Join us on Thursday, March 4th… Read more »

Thursday, March 11, 2021 2:00-3:00 PM ET Webinar Registration People living with dementia are at a higher risk for institutionalization. For those who live alone, the risk is even greater. Community based supports and services can help people age in place for as long, and as safely as possible. In this presentation, case studies will… Read more »

Explore history and exhibits with the Mystic Seaport. Events include a live Q & A session. Please register separately for each event. 2/24/2021 @ 7PM: Go behind-the-scenes with curator Katherine Hijar to explore the museum’s recently re-opened Figureheads Gallery & the museum’s vault to find the additional folk-art objects that didn’t make it into the… Read more »

Join us to learn more about the hidden world of crime through the eyes of forensic crimes investigators and educators in this 6-part series.  Powered by AARP CT in collaboration with University of New Haven, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI), CT -IAFCI Chapter… Read more »

Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 1:00pm – 2:00pm ETJoin the webinar at FCC.gov/live Join experts from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and ACL on Tuesday, February 23 at 1 pm ET for a free webinar on financial protection of older adults during the COVID pandemic. The FCC will begin the… Read more »

The Center for Medicare Advocacy will be hosting a Town Hall with Senator Chris Murphy on Wednesday, February 24th about Medicare as well as broader life issues. Please see attached flyer for more info. You can register online here: http://bit.ly/TownHall-SenMurphy  To register by phone, call the Center for Medicare Advocacy at 860-456-7790.

Senior Resources, Eastern CT’s Area Agency on Aging, “News You Can Use” February Newsletter is now available on-line. To see a full listing of upcoming events, on-going programs and information for Eastern CT check out the February Newsletter.

March 31 Deadline for Enrolling in Medicare or Changing Medicare Advantage Enrollment Advocates working with clients eligible for or enrolled in Medicare should be aware of two important opportunities with a March 31 deadline—the Medicare General Enrollment Period for people who need to enroll in Medicare Part A or B, and the Medicare Advantage Open… Read more »

Guidance for ACL programs:  The latest on the 2021 Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act. Grants to Enhance Adult Protective Services to Respond to COVID-19: Informational Webinar Recording, FAQ (Check the COVID-19 page new week for an updated FAQ) FAQ: Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs Budget tables: Older Americans Act… Read more »

During the month of February, our thoughts turn to Valentine’s Day and feeling connected. So in this month when the focus is on Valentine’s Day, our hearts, relationships, and the feeling of being in love- let us take a moment to explore how to protect ourselves and loved ones from something known as the Sweetheart… Read more »

The iconic film Glory made famous the story of the Massachusetts 54th Black Civil War regiment. No less important, but not nearly so well known, is that of the Connecticut 29th Black regiment. Among the first Union soldiers to enter a fallen Richmond in 1865, the 29th have not always been lauded or even acknowledged. … Read more »

As part of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, DPH is organizing several upcoming training events for community leaders on key information and messaging associated with the vaccine. The goal of the training is to give community leaders confidence as trusted messengers and champions in the vaccine rollout. The trainings will occur in small group settings on… Read more »

An intimate conversation with Geri and Jim Taylor: Alzheimer’s Disease Advocates, who offered their journey of living with Alzheimer’s in a featured New York Times twelve-page article entitled: Fraying at the Edge.   Erica DeFrancesco from LiveWell, serves as the facilitator for this informative and moving conversation capturing the voices, stories, and experiences of those living… Read more »

Join us to learn more about the hidden world of crime through the eyes of forensic crimes investigators and educators in this 6-part series.  Powered by AARP CT in collaboration with University of New Haven, Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice & Forensic Sciences, International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI), CT -IAFCI Chapter… Read more »

On 2/8/21, Governor Lamont issued Executive Order 10A that extends a number of previously issued Executive Orders that were set to expire on 2/9/21. Executive Order 10A, however, ends the protection afforded nursing homes and hospital against civil liability effective 3/1/21. To view Executive Order 10A.

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that Connecticut residents over the age of 65 will be eligible to schedule COVID-19 vaccination appointments starting on Thursday, February 11, 2021, as the state rolls into the next part of phase 1b of its vaccination program. Vaccinations for individuals over the age of 75 and those… Read more »

We want to encourage all residents of Connecticut who are 75+ to get COVID Vaccine Appointments as soon as possible. You may share the attached document: 75+ Scheduling Options with the people you serve or simply use to guide your efforts in support of the older adults in your community. Thank you! Also, attached please… Read more »

Older adults face unprecedented challenges related to the Coronavirus. New variants present questions and concerns related to the danger of contracting the disease. Vaccines show promise but misinformation is everywhere. Join your senior centers and the Area Agencies on Aging for a free, informative forum designed to give you the answers you need. VIRTUAL CONFERENCE,… Read more »

Join AARP Connecticut, the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and attendees from across the U.S. for this FREE virtual tour. This event will take place on February 10 at 7:00pm ET | 6:00pm CT | 5:00pm MT | 4:00pm PT – AARP membership not required.  Please join us for a very special 2021 virtual tour series with… Read more »

Academy Point at Mystic is hosting a virtual discussion “The Caregiver’s Journey” by Robert E. P. Elmer III, Master Trainer of Alzheimer’s Care, Alzheimer’s Care Specialist, licensed assisted living administrator, Lecturer at the URI College of Nursing, journalist and author of “Join the Journey – Care for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver” and frequent guest lecturer. You… Read more »

Posted on February 3, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced the launch of new services at the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that will enable residents to renew their driver’s licenses and non-driver ID cards online without having to visit an office in-person. The announcement is part of Governor Lamont’s broader… Read more »

The Adult Protective Service Technical Resource Center (APS TARC) Blog is updated regularly with posts from contributing authors and new publications from the Adult Protective Services Technical Assistance Resource Center (APS TARC). Check back frequently or subscribe to our email list to receive updates. If you have ideas for future blog post to share with us, reach… Read more »

As the COVID-19 Pandemic continues to impact the physical, emotional, and financial health of CT residents, please see the below message from Greater Hartford Legal Aid. We do not want this important benefit to go unnoticed. We know that approximately 70% of folks accessing food-distribution sites have never done so before, and we know that… Read more »

Justice in Aging has updated its guide, 25 Common Nursing Home Problems—& How to Resolve Them. The revised guide includes, among other things, COVID-19 specific information, 2021 Medicare eligibility standards, and advice on how to refuse arbitration agreements under a recently revised federal regulation.   This updated version of the guide offers new information on… Read more »

Elder Abuse Guide for Law Enforcement (EAGLE) has released a new Roll Call Video that can be shared with law enforcement partners to help them better identify elder abuse and build skills to work more effectively with older adults. By virtue of U.S. demographics, elder abuse is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United… Read more »

Have an idea for a program that will benefit older adults in your community?  Every year, the North Central Area Agency on Aging (NCAAA) solicits proposals for programs that serve older persons (age 60 and older) and their families in the North Central CT region under Title III of the Older Americans Act;  categories B,… Read more »

The CFPB is committed to providing you with up-to-date information and resources to protect and manage your finances during this difficult time.  The latest from the CFPB Struggling during the pandemic? COVID-19 financial relief and protections extended Financial relief and protections for many student loan borrowers, renters, and homeowners has been extended. Here’s what you need to know. Navigating an… Read more »

Join the effort to offset loneliness seniors may feel on the national day of love by Michelle R. Davis, AARP, January 21, 2021 | Comments: 2 GETTY IMAGES Laura Larson and her family are busy right now making Valentine’s Day cards for older adults who might be feeling a little lonely these days. Larson, her husband and their three… Read more »

A broad and growing statewide coalition of 37 advocacy organizations in Connecticut is calling on the Lamont Administration to take formal action immediately to ensure that the rights of people with disabilities, older adults, and Black, brown, indigenous and Asian people are protected from discrimination amidst the continuing COVID-19 public health crisis. Disability Rights CT… Read more »

Breaking News   The Administration for Community Living (ACL) has announced the distribution of emergency funding dedicated to state Adult Protective Services programs. The federal register notice can be found here: https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2021-02091/program-application-instructions-for-adult-protective-services-funding with official publication on February 1, 2021. This first-ever funding dedicated to supporting state and local Adult Protective Services (APS) comes at a critical time… Read more »

Administration for Community Living sent this bulletin at 01/28/2021 04:10 PM EST ACL’s COVID-19 Resources: What’s New Here’s what’s new on our COVID-19 resource page:  Upcoming webinars: Thursday, February 4, 2:00pm ET:  Mobilizing Transportation to Increase COVID-19 Vaccination (Hosted by the Federal Transit Administration-funded National Center for Mobility Management with CDC and the National Association of County and… Read more »

Senior Resources has a plethora of volunteer opportunities! • Advisory Council • Board of Directors • CHOICES Counselor (Medicare/Medicaid Information) • Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP – Medicare/Medicaid Fraud & Abuse Information) Does this sound like something you would enjoy? Call us at 860-887-3561 and ask for Erica Bonefas at ext. 110

Join the Step Up Connecticut Team Step Up Connecticut is the effort to enlist everyone who is healthy, and able to help to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.  Volunteers and flexible staff are a critical part of how we can ensure that our residents have access to what they need. We’re counting on residents to step… Read more »

United Way 211, in collaboration with the State, maintains a list of all of the testing sites, and ensures that they are posted on 211ct.org/covidtesting. There are a variety of filters and search functions available under “Filter These Results” that can help you find a site that makes sense for you.  For more information go… Read more »

Question: A beneficiary recently asked, “Can I be charged for the COVID-19 vaccine”? Answer: NO Here’s helpful information for Medicare Beneficiaries as well as the American public on the cost of the COVID-19 vaccine. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services shared: Vaccine doses purchased with U.S. taxpayer dollars will be given to the American… Read more »

Presentation with Mystic Seaport Museum Exhibit Director Elysa Engelman Join AARP Connecticut, the Mystic Seaport Museum and attendees from across the U.S. for this FREE virtual tour. This event will take place on February 3 at 1:00pm ET | 12:00pm CT | 11:00am MT | 10:00am PT – AARP membership not required. By the mid-nineteenth century an increasing number… Read more »

The National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) announces the posting of a new document, “What APS Reporters Need To Know,” on the NAPSA website. This document provides general information on the role of APS in investigations and addresses some of the common expectations of reporters. It may be used as a handout or posted to… Read more »

Tuesday, March 23rd & Wednesday, March 24, 2021 Webinar Registration Increasingly, frail older adults with complex health issues live alone in the community, far from their relatives and caregivers. An older adult may depend upon community service providers for basic necessities and psychosocial support prior to a disastrous event. However, the need for these critical… Read more »

On March 13, 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a lockdown order, banning everyone but essential personnel from entering nursing homes. As a result, nursing home residents began a months-long period of isolation – cut off from their families. After CMS began to relax visitation rules, Consumer Voice heard from families… Read more »

We are pleased to share a new blog by Lori Mars, JD titled, “Scams That Come to Life After Death.”   In the past year, the pandemic has opened new, more insidious, and disturbing avenues for scammers to defraud unsuspecting targets. The mounting instability and insecurity caused by the contagion have proven a receptive breeding ground… Read more »

Posted on January 26, 2021 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has signed a declaration extending Connecticut’s state of emergency in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to April 20, 2021. The extension applies to both the civil preparedness emergency and the public health emergency. The governor originally declared the emergencies on… Read more »

The National Resource Center on Nutrition & Aging moves to seniornutrition.acl.gov. Check out their new website! New ACL Senior Nutrition Website National Resource Center on Nutrition & Aging moves to seniornutrition.acl.gov ACL funds the National Resource Center on Nutrition and Aging (NRCNA) to build the capacity of senior nutrition programs funded by the Older Americans Act. Since 2011,… Read more »

Date: Tuesday, February 2, 2021 Time: 3:00pm – 3:45pm EST  Webinar Registration We’ve been busy at the Administration for Community Living (ACL) developing plans for the second annual “Celebrate Our Senior Nutrition Program.” We are excited about our website location that will feature tip sheets, infographics and a community toolkit to offer resources you can use to… Read more »

CDC sharable video provides helpful information on what to expect when getting a COVID-19 vaccination, common side-effects and symptoms to report to your healthcare provider should they occur.

From the CT Mirror: Vaccinations in nursing homes top 64,000; COVID cases are dropping rapidly among residents.

As a “thank you,” Academy Point at Mystic is inviting their professional partners to pick up a delicious meal for two of homemade soup, salad and dessert! Reservations must be made by calling the number provided below by January 27th. Thursday, January 28 3 – 5 p.m. Hosted Virtually by Academy Point at Mystic As… Read more »

What You Should Know: On December 27, 2020, the fourth COVID-19 relief package was signed into law. The $900 billion relief package, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, was combined with a larger omnibus bill that included annual government funding for Fiscal Year 2021. This relief package included a second round of Economic Impact… Read more »

National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care hosts a number of podcasts related to caring for loved ones, advocacy, how to find quality long-term care and managing care during COVID-19. See the full list of podcasts on the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care website.

Fraudsters prey on people eager for hard-to-get coronavirus vaccinations by Katherine Skiba, AARP, January 12, 2021 | Comments: 1 SOME MEANS/GETTY IMAGES An ad for the COVID-19 vaccine on Craigslist. Telephone offers of home delivery of the vaccine. Text messages inviting you to set up an appointment for a coronavirus vaccination. Offers of “leftover” vaccine supposedly up for grabs.… Read more »

The COACH works on the fact that most people are resilient and have a built-in ability to recover from or adjust to misfortune or change such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This is one of the most important factors in fostering individual and community recovery and is an essential element of COACH. We don’t approach people… Read more »

Older Americans lose $2.6 billion or more annually due to elder financial abuse and exploitation and it’s estimated 60 billion is lost annually due to Medicare Fraud. Unfortunately, it occurs in every demographic and can happen to anyone—a family member, a neighbor, even you. It is estimated that only one in five of these crimes… Read more »

Focus Remains on Appointments for Individuals Older Than 75; Individuals 65+ Will Be Next, Followed by Individuals With a High-Risk Condition and Frontline Essential Workers; Vaccine Clinics in Congregate Settings Will Occur Throughout (HARTFORD, CT) – With nearly 1.4 million individuals included in Phase 1b of Connecticut’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout and the state anticipating to receive about… Read more »

The Devastating Effect of Lockdowns on Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities During COVID-19 On March 13, 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a lockdown order, banning everyone but essential personnel from entering nursing homes. As a result, nursing home residents began a months-long period of isolation – cut off from their… Read more »

Join the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Consumer Voice for a fireside chat on vaccine safety. This is the fourth discussion in a special series, a part of the CMS National Nursing Home Stakeholder Call Series, aimed at addressing questions and concerns about… Read more »

2020 was a very important and historic year for elder justice issues in DC, culminating with the end-of-year passage of $100 million in emergency funding for Elder Justice Act programs primarily for adult protective services to respond to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation which have been exacerbated by the pandemic. However, beyond this historic $100… Read more »

CHOICES is part of a national network of SHIP agencies that offers free, confidential counseling, education and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries, their caregivers and the general public. CHOICES is administered by the Dept. of Aging and Disability Services State Unit on Aging in partnership with CT’s five Area Agencies on Aging and the Center for… Read more »

1.3 Million Residents Are Eligible To Receive Vaccine in Phase 1b as 46,000 First Doses Are Expected To Be Delivered Weekly From the Federal Government Governor Lamont Accepts Advisory Group’s Recommendations To Expand Phase 1b To More Populations Click here to read the full press release.

The COVID-19 Vaccine scheduling portal is now live for those 75+ that are able to register online. Further details for those who wish to register by phone will be forthcoming. Link and information can be found below: Please spread the word! https://portal.ct.gov/Coronavirus/COVID-19-Vaccination—75-and-older

ACL’s COVID-19 Resources: What’s New Here’s what’s new on our COVID-19 resource page:  The latest on vaccines: As millions of Americans begin to receive one of the FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines, we’ve created a new “Vaccination Information” section on our COVID-19 page with up-to-date resources, including: Information from the CDC on the benefits of vaccination, who gets a… Read more »

State Officials will release details Thursday 1/14/21 about a new website and phone number that seniors can use to schedule an appointment. To read full article from the CT Mirror go to: CT seniors age 75 and older can register for the COVID vaccine next week (ctmirror.org)

On December 27, 2020, the fourth COVID-19 relief package was signed into law. The $900 billion relief package, the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, was combined with a larger omnibus bill that annual government funding for 2021 and numerous significant policies that impact older adults. Justice in Aging has created a summary for… Read more »

With Phase 1b about to begin, for up to date information regarding Connecticut’s vaccine distribution plan visit the “COVID-19 Vaccine in Connecticut” page.

JANUARY 8, 2021 — Attorney General William Tong and Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle H. Seagull are warning Connecticut residents to be on the lookout for potential scams involving the second round of stimulus checks from the federal government. Stimulus checks from the Internal Revenue Service began arriving this week for many people… Read more »

The Long-term Care Ombudsman’s Office has developed commercials, in English and Spanish, advising long-term care residents of their rights around the COVID-19 vaccine. We encourage CEJC members to distribute this resource freely to their networks to get the word out about individual rights and the vaccine. Links to short and long versions of the commercials… Read more »

National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) shares factsheet drafted by ABA Commission on Law and Aging, National Center for State Courts, and the National Guardianship Association: FAQs by Guardians about the COVID-19 Vaccine for Long-Term Care Facility Residents and to FAQs by Guardians about the COVID-19 Pandemic

Join the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, Legal Counsel for the Elderly, and AARP DC for an important conversation on how people with disabilities and older adults in long-term care can use Supported Decision-Making to work with friends, family members and others they trust to help them understand the situations… Read more »

AARP’s first live event of the new year will address the latest information on vaccine development and distribution, your questions about the stimulus package, and the best ways to stay safe and protected from the coronavirus.https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/tele-town-hall-coronavirus.html

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With in-person visitation continuing to be restricted in long term care facilities due to the corona virus pandemic. One of the ways that family members may still be allowed to visit their loved ones during a facility outbreak is through compassionate care visits. Compassionate care visits are special visits in which a family member or… Read more »

Senior Resources, Eastern CT’s Area Agency on Aging, has scheduled several Medicare Savings Program presentations in 2021! Learn how to make Medicare premiums and prescriptions more affordable. The first presentation will be offered 1/6/21 at 10:00. Registration is required. To register and to view a full list of 2021 dates click here.

Senior Resources, Eastern Area Agency on Aging, is hosting a free event this Friday, January 8th at 9:00 AM, to discuss the implications of the COVID-19 vaccine, open enrollment dos and don’ts, and how to protect yourself from scams. Dial in to the free conference call line (712) 775-7031, meeting ID: 797-253-419.

Congress was considering broad legislation that would have had a devastating impact on residents for long-term care facilities for years.   The immunity legislation was tied to the most recent COVID-19 relief bill, and it seemed inevitable that civil immunity was going to pass.  However, thanks to your advocacy,  immunity was not included in the legislation! … Read more »

GetSetUp is a platform & community that helps older adults enjoy independent, socially connected lives through learning. Find a range of free experiences, from how to connect virtually to caring for loved ones: GetSetUp: Live classes for older adults

December 30, 2020 (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is committing an additional $31.2 million, as well as continued support for COVID-19 recovery and alternate COVID recovery facilities, to support Connecticut’s nursing homes in their ongoing response to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Today’s announcement comes in addition to more than $150 million… Read more »

As communities around the country adapt to physical distancing in order to reduce the spread of the new coronavirus, activities that promote social engagement have become critically important tools to reduce social isolation. To help promote social connections among older adults during this time, engAGED and the Eldercare Locator have developed the list of resources… Read more »

Make Every Bite Count: USDA, HHS Release Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025 (Washington, D.C., December 29, 2020) – Nutrition in America took a major step forward today with the publication of Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. Jointly published by the U.S. Departments of Agriculture (USDA) and Health and Human Services (HHS) every five years, the guidelines… Read more »

The latest edition of the Silver Panther newsletter provides nursing home residents the latest information on residents rights regarding the COVID-19 vaccination, addresses concerns about taking the vaccine, and testimonials form residents that have received the vaccine.

The holidays may be over, but social distancing continues to create loneliness and feelings of isolation. The Humanitarian Disaster Institute provides some helpful tips to continue to connect with one another beyond the holiday season. https://www.n4a.org//Files/N4A%20H4H%20Brochure_Final.pdf

Take a moment and think about the people in your life. Who among them lives alone? When is the last time you reached out to them? As you’re planning your holiday celebrations, are you finding ways to include them? At ACL.gov/CommitToConnect, you will find activities that people can do alone or with family and friends.… Read more »

The best thing you can do to protect yourself, your friends, and family during the holidays is to celebrate in-person only with members your immediate household. The best way for us to keep cases down in the state is to stay home and away from others, and celebrate with those outside of our household virtually.… Read more »

Lincoln Center Moments is a free performance-based program specially designed for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Join us as we bring Lincoln Center’s unparalleled artistry to an intimate and supported setting. Each program includes a performance, followed by activities facilitated by educators and music therapists exploring the work through discussion, movement, music, and art-making.… Read more »

The arrival of the COVID-19 vaccine has been announced and unfortunately scammers will use this as an opportunity to take advantage of people eager to get the vaccine.  We don’t know what the scam will look like but it’s important people are aware that scammers are eager to knock on your door, call your phones,… Read more »

The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care has released an information sheet outlining the current information known about the vaccination process to be offered in skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities. https://theconsumervoice.org/

Connecticut COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Group’s Science Subcommittee Recommended Immediate Distribution of Vaccine. To read full press release: Governor Lamont Announces Approval of Moderna’s COVID-19 Vaccine in Connecticut

Connecting with other people is a huge part of our lives — and it’s essential to our health and well-being. It’s also a huge part of what makes the holidays special. The good news is there are many ways we can connect, even if we’re physically apart. And if you’re still looking for that perfect… Read more »

A free, six-week, virtual Live Well with Chronic Pain Workshop is being held for the first time in Connecticut. This program takes place via Zoom on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on January 26, February 2, 19, 16, and 23 and March 2, 2021. Participants will need a computer, tablet or cell phone… Read more »

The Department of Aging and Disability Services is currently seeking a Planning Analyst to join our State Unit on Aging (SUA). In this key role you are responsible for the State Plan on Aging along with planning, monitoring and evaluating programs and initiatives.  To see the full job posting and qualifications go to: https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?R1=201216&R2=6297AR&R3=001

EAGLE (Elder Abuse Guide for Law Enforcement) and NW3C are offering a free on-line IADLEST certified training for Law Enforcement. This training is intended for criminal justice professionals. The training introduces the types of elder abuse and how to navigate through the EAGLE portal. For registration information go to https://www.nw3c.org/online-training/online-course-detail/488

The Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFBP) provides information about possible scams. Knowing about these scams is the first step toward preventing them. For more information visit: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/coronavirus/avoiding-scams/

Senior Resources, the Eastern CT Area Agency on Aging, will present “Powerful Tools for Caregivers” a six-week education program for family and friends caring for older adults with cognitive and chronic impairments. The program focuses on the self-care of family caregivers. Classes will be held on Thursdays from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, January 7th… Read more »

Date: Wednesday 2/16/20 at 5:30pmLocation: CTLTCOP Facebook Live Page Event Description: Please join Connecticut’s State Long Term Care Ombudsman Mairead Painter along with special guests from the department of public health and the state vaccination team to discuss and answer questions regarding the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination set to be administered to staff and residents at… Read more »

Social isolation has reached epidemic proportions and has a negative impact on our emotional and physical health.   Are you or a loved one at risk for social isolation? Take this assessment to find out if you are at risk. Connect2Affect – Learn About Isolation and Make a Difference

With COVID-19 vaccines in the pipeline, the @FTC warns that scammers won’t be far behind. For tips about how people can avoid becoming victims of scammers, visit https://consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/12/covid-19-vaccines-are-pipeline-scammers-wont-be-far-behind… #COVID #COVID19

The FDA released a fact sheet for recipients and caregivers regarding the authorization of the COVID-19 vaccination. To read the fact sheet go to: https://selfservehosteu.pfizer.com/pfrrdownload/file/fid/77051

CDC and Connecticut COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Group’s Science Subcommittee Recommend Immediate Distribution of Vaccine (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Group’s Science Subcommittee has submitted recommendations to him that the state’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan start at the earliest opportunity. The recommendation comes after the subcommittee reviewed… Read more »

If you’re like most Americans, you don’t get to see your elderly loved ones as often as you’d like. The holidays offer an opportunity to visit with parents and grandparents. Given that 1 in 10 older Americans are abused and neglected, the National Center on Elder Abuse wants everyone to know what they should be… Read more »

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General continues to alert the public about fraud schemes related to COVID-19. Fraudsters are using telemarketing calls, text messages, social media platforms, and door-to-door visits to perpetrate COVID-19-related scams. These scammers use the coronavirus pandemic to benefit themselves, and beneficiaries face potential harm. The… Read more »

The holidays may be different this year, but there are still many ways we can connect, stay engaged and enjoy the season. We’ve pulled together a few ideas and resources, and will be adding more soon.  The holidays are a great time for a family project, or a group project with friends — and there are… Read more »

Two free presentations provided by Certified CHOICES Counselor from Senior Resources Area Agency on Aging. December 8, 2020, 5:00-7:00 PM: New to Medicare-Know your Medicare Options Webinar. December 9, 2020, 5:00-6:30 PM: Are You Eligible for Assistance with Your Medicare Costs? Medicare Savings Program and the Low Income Subsidy Program Webinar. Registration is required for… Read more »

Bob Blancato, the national coordinator of the nonpartisan Elder Justice Coalition, provides update on status of the reauthorization of the Elder Justice Act in The Hill’ s op-ed section. https://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/healthcare/528267-a-need-for-reauthorization-of-the-elder-justice-act

SOUTHEAST SENIOR NETWORK PRESENTS: LAUGHTER YOGA with DAWN TYSONSession for health care professionals. Enjoy a relaxing and upbeat session of this laughter-based yoga exercise to improve your health and well-being.  No yoga mat required!  Just bring your funnybone!  This special event begins with 30 minutes of networking, followed by 60 minutes of fun and relaxation.… Read more »

Making the Most of the Holiday Experience During COVID With Robin Ely, RN The holidays are often filled with sharing, laughter and lots of memories – but, they can also bring stress, disappointment and sadness.  This year, COVID-19 presents a heightened risk for spreading the virus, especially for older adults.  Someone living with memory loss… Read more »

Estate Planning Documents: Important Now More than Ever is a virtual seminar being hosted on Friday, December 11th, from 1:00pm-2:00pm, by Attorney Colleen Masse, Czepiga Daly Pope & Perri’s Special Needs Planning Department Chair. Everyone is feeling a little powerless and overwhelmed by COVID-19 these days.  Making sure one’s affairs are in order and accessible is… Read more »

To meet the demand for in home care, Eastern CT Workforce Investment Board (EWIB) is hosting a pilot program with Assured Quality Homecare (AQH) to increase the skills and competencies of Eastern CT’s labor force through education and training. The Personal Care Aide (PCA) training program prepares individuals hired by home care agencies with entry-level… Read more »

Academy Point Toasts the Holiday Season Please join us virtually on December 15th from 4:30 to 5:30 PM  Your attendance helps support  Senior Resources, Area Agency on Aging Come toast the season, relax and take a few minutes to connect with colleagues.  Join us virtually, enjoy your favorite beverage and the company of friends. Please… Read more »

Virtual Zoom event to recognize the signs of compassion fatigue, discuss good habits to reduce the risks, and coping strategies to deal with isolation. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2020 at 12:30 PM ZOOM MEETING ID: 477 383 836    Password 407904 https://zoom.us/j/477383836?pwd=cFN3ZUI0WUhlTDNLRElLMnVvZ0V2UT09

The Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut would like to invite any interested caregivers to a monthly virtual support group. The group will meet every 2nd Tuesday beginning Dec. 8th from 4:00-5:00 pm. Caregiving can be so challenging, all consuming and isolating. Support groups can help to relieve some of that isolation and loneliness.… Read more »

North Central Area Agency on Aging in conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Association host virtual Alzheimer’s community form on December 4th, 1:00-2:30 PM.

Danger!  Avoiding the Roadblocks & Potholes of Fraud:  Paul Greenwood AARP FWN LIVE Tele-Town Hall Discussion Protect yourself, your loved ones and your community from criminals with one goal in mind – get the money!  Learn about new scams, warning signs of fraud, and prevention strategies for putting the brakes on these crimes.  Discussion moderated… Read more »

As the holiday season approaches, this is traditionally a time when families travel to see each other and gather in celebration, especially with relatives in long-term care communities. As many of you plan for your holiday gatherings, please review this joint letter from the Department of Public Health and the Department of Aging and Disability… Read more »

As COVID-19 rates are increasing throughout the country, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging all of us to celebrate virtually or just with members of our own household. And because nursing home residents are particularly at risk, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has taken the unusual step of… Read more »

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a memo to nursing facilities, residents, and their families outlining recommendations for residents who choose to leave the facility temporarily to visit family and friends over the holidays. The recommendations include steps nursing facility staff should take when residents return to the facility, including increased screening… Read more »

Consumer Voice Statement in Response to the Associated Press’s Article – Not just COVID: Nursing home neglect deaths surge in shadows In an article today, the Associated Press confirmed what advocates for residents of long-term care facilities have known for months: residents are suffering and dying from neglect. According to the AP, in addition to… Read more »

As the holidays and the colder weather approach, we are reminded of annual traditions of getting together with family and friends to celebrate.  Unfortunately, this year’s COVID 19 pandemic has made it potentially risky for many older adults to participate in these gatherings.  Please read the following notice from the Centers for Disease Control and… Read more »

Join the National Center on Law & Elder Rights for a webinar on Friday, November 20th at 1:00pm ET entitled LTSS Policy Changes in Response to COVID-19.  As the COVID-19 emergency lingers, federal and state governments continue to adjust. This webinar will discuss recent changes relating to older adults, Medicaid, and long-term services and supports.… Read more »

Gen Silent  Virtual Screening & Discussion                             Friday, November 20th & Monday, November 30th  Gen Silent shares the stories of LGBTQ older adults dealing with the challenges & hopes of growing older. This landmark film has inspired a movement of advocates to create safe & welcoming experiences for older adults & caregivers.  UCONN, School of Social… Read more »

Thursday, December 10, 2020 2:00 – 3:00 PM ET Financial exploitation and scams aimed at older adults result in the loss of billions of dollars every year. These crimes often go unreported because victims are scared, embarrassed, or don’t know who to call. The U.S. Department of Justice National Elder Fraud Hotline, managed by the Office… Read more »

Early Stage Support Groups Support groups create a safe, confidential, supportive environment or community and a chance for participants to develop informal mutual support and social relationships. They also educate and inform participants about dementia and help participants develop methods and skills to solve problems. Early Stage Support Group for persons living with dementia 2nd… Read more »

On TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2020 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM (ET) The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is holding a free virtual educational conference as part of its Educating America Tour to connect Connecticut residents with information about Alzheimer’s disease, brain health, caregiving and advance planning. Click Here to Register, it is free and open to all! See Agenda Below

Several national level organizations are hosting 2020 Veterans Day virtual events due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. For a list of events visit: https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/80496/organizations-offer-national-level-veterans

November 9 at 6 PM 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s & Other Dementias  November 10 at 3 PM Healthy Living for your Brain & Body/Latest Research November 11 at 1:30 PM 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s & Other Dementias November 12 at 1 PM Legal and Financial Planning for Alzheimer’s Disease  November 16 at 10:30 AM Healthy Living… Read more »

Nicholas Nicholson, who has been studying social isolation in the aging population for years, has developed the “Zero Isolation” pilot program. The aim of the program is prevent isolation and loneliness and to improve overall health in older adults. To read more about the program go to: https://www.wnpr.org/post/quinnipiac-professor-aims-zero-isolation

Stronger than COVID is a campaign launched in late Summer and early Fall by the State of Connecticut on a variety of platforms including social, digital, print, radio, and TV. The campaign highlights Connecticut’s diverse immigrant population – and encourages everyone to unite in the fight against COVID-19 by continuing to wash hands, keep a… Read more »

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has launched the Nursing Home Resource Center, a new online platform that serves as a centralized hub of the latest information, guidance and data on nursing homes that is important to facilities, providers, residents, and their families.  Previously, individuals seeking information specific to nursing homes had to… Read more »

Celebrated every November, National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country. It offers an opportunity to raise awareness of caregiving issues, educate communities, and increase support for caregivers. The national observance is spearheaded by Caregiver Action Network (CAN), a nonprofit that provides free education, peer support, and resources to family… Read more »

As in-person visits resume and families return to long-term care facilities for the first time since the pandemic began, they may notice the impact COVID-19 has had on residents. During your visit you will want to note any changes in your loved one’s appearance or demeanor to get a better sense of the impact on… Read more »

Yale is looking for participants for two exciting remote studies of families impacted by early stage dementia. Both studies offer generous compensations and will help researchers better understand how families are coping with early stage dementia, as well as offering coping tools. One study is for a parent and child, and the other for spouses/partners.… Read more »

This trial is designed to study an investigational medication (RTB-101) that we hope can prevent or reduce COVID 19 symptoms in people age 65 or older, who have either:  Tested positive for COVID-19 but do not have any symptoms of COVID-19, or live with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Participants must be… Read more »

This year has been hard on everyone, but the COVID-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on residents of long-term care facilities. The statistics and stories from across the country have been heartbreaking—especially for residents, their families and friends, and facility staff. In addition to the direct danger posed by the virus itself, the months… Read more »

Annual report to Congress highlights the increased exploitation of older Americans during the the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Department of Justice’s efforts to detect, investigate and prosecute Coronavirus-related crimes. For full report: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/department-justice-issues-annual-report-congress-its-work-combat-elder-fraud-and-abuse

Join Senior Resources Agency on Aging for a free group phone conversation about Medicare, Senior Medicare Patrol, CHOICES programs and ways to prevent Fraud and Abuse. Listen in, ask questions, discuss ideas. Every 2nd Friday of the month from 9-10 am Mark your 2020 Calendar: October 9th November 13th December 11th Different topics and speakers… Read more »

HISTORY OF VOICES FORUM In September of 1996, nursing home resident and activist Carol Rosenwald, with assistance from the Ombudsman Program, began organizing residents across the state to advocate for improvements in the long term care system.  Carol envisioned a time when the “VOICES” of nursing home residents could be heard “beyond the walls” of their… Read more »

Upcoming Events – Please Join AARP! Registration is free and open to people of all ages AARP CT Every Vote Counts – Every Voter’s Safety Should Too:  3 chances to participate! Join the conversation to learn about ensuring your vote counts! Learn about voting safely by mail or in person, as well as some of… Read more »

AARP CT in collaboration with Quinnipiac University will be hosting a virtual workshop on 10/20/2020 from 3PM – 4:30PM.  Registration is required to receive the private link unique to your email by clicking on the event registration link below.  This event is free and offered to individuals in the community, advocates, students and academics with… Read more »

AARP CT Webinar Wednesday Series – Please Join us! Join us weekly at our AARP CT Webinar Wednesday Series to participate in educational workshops and fun with purpose experiences.  Our July series will be held at 1PM each Wednesday.   Registration is free and open to people of all ages! July 8, 2020 @ 12:30PM AARP… Read more »

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations (UN). World Elder Abuse Awareness Day aims to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and… Read more »

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is held each year on June 15. With it just around the corner and coming up next week, AARP’s Fraud Watch Network will be hosting two educational events to help keep elders safe. The Con Artist Playbook and Coronavirus Scams; details and registration of the events are listed below.… Read more »

Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT) monitors the activities of Social Security Representative Payees appointed by the Social Security Administration to manage the funds of Social Security Beneficiaries. Original Page: https://www.disrightsct.org/report-rep-payee The Social Security Administration (SSA) reported that there are 6 million rep payees serving 8.3 million beneficiaries nationwide, responsible for $70 billion in SSA benefits, in… Read more »

Join AARP weekly for their AARP CT Webinar Wednesday Series to participate in educational workshops and fun with purpose experiences.  The first of the series will be held at 1PM each Wednesday.   Registration is free and open to people of all ages! May 27, 2020 @ 1PM Caregiver Roadshow for CT Families:  Offers a journey through… Read more »

AARP Connecticut Survey Finds Majority of Connecticut Adults Using Payment Apps Unaware of Danger Posed by Scammers Be Aware of P2P Risks When Paying for Groceries, Other Services During Pandemic (Link to Direct AARP Article) According to a new AARP survey of adults 18 and older, about two in three (66%) Connecticut consumers rely on… Read more »

With the visitation limitations enacted by the Department of public health continuing to be in effect throughout Connecticut nursing homes, The Connecticut Long Term Care Ombudsman Program has started hosting regular Facebook live interactive discussions with our State Long Term Care Ombudsman Mairead Painter every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5:30pm. The COVID-19 pandemic has… Read more »

The Long Term Care Ombudsman program works to improve the quality of life and quality of care of Connecticut citizens residing in nursing homes, residential care homes and assisted living communities. The LTCOP responds to, and investigates complaints brought forward by residents, family members, and/or  other individuals acting on their behalf.  Ombudsmen offer information on… Read more »

Hospice Care Providers are in a unique position to provide vital, compassionate care to those experiencing terminal illness.  November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, and we’re raising awareness of How Hospices and Hospice Care Providers can be a coordinated, collective force for justice for older people. Whether we have a terminal illness or not,… Read more »

The Coalition for Abuse Prevention of the Elderly (CAPE) is a collaborative effort of citizens, agencies, and businesses in Fairfield County, who champion the safety and well-being of older adults. The group aims to prevent abuse and help victims through advocacy, awareness, and professional training and support. The group was started with an initial grant from the… Read more »

FROM POLITICO CMS adds new alert for nursing homes accused of abuse, neglect. Starting Oct. 23, the online tool consumers use to compare nursing homes will include a “consumer alert icon” next to nursing homes cited for incidents of abuse, neglect or exploitation, POLITICO’s Rachel Roubein reports. The agency says it’s aiming to increase transparency,… Read more »

Read the CAPE Newsletter here. CAPE:  The Coalition for Abuse Prevention of the Elderly (CAPE) is a collaborative effort of citizens, agencies, and businesses in Fairfield County, who champion the safety and well-being of older adults. The group aims to prevent abuse and help victims through advocacy, awareness, and professional training and support. The group was started with… Read more »

The National Center on Law and Elder Rights (NCLER) is presenting two free webcasts in the month of October: On October 8th, a webcast on “Issues at the Intersection of Social Security and Medicare,” presented by Georgia Burke and Trinh Phan of Justice in Aging. You can find more information and register here. On October 16th,… Read more »

“U.S. Social Security Administration and Social Security’s Office of the Inspector General announced the expansion of their successful anti-fraud initiative”. Learn more by reading “Social Security Matters” here.

This year’s Symposium is being held in conjunction with the VOICES Forum, for the first time together providing Connecticut’s nursing home residents and leading Elder Justice partners with the opportunity to meet and discuss issues affecting older adults. When: Thursday, October 10, 2019 from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm Where:  Aqua Turf Club, 556 Mulberry Street, Plantsville,… Read more »

CAPE is excited to announce a new bi-annual forum for professionals to address elder abuse by case review. Join your colleagues as we share challenging cases and work through resources and interventions together.  Professional privacy will be strictly enforced.  RSVP by September 9th.  CEUs are available for Social Workers. Thursday, September 12th from 8:30am –… Read more »

When: Tuesday, September 10, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. PT/2:00 p.m. ET. Lawyers serve an essential role in protecting the due process rights of every defendant or respondent in an adult guardianship case. This can include presenting evidence that no guardian is needed or that a limited guardianship is sufficient to provide the protections that are needed. This… Read more »

The Intersection Between Mental Health and Aging. The conference provides education from renowned experts, time to network with other professionals in the aging network and interaction with service providers from a wide-range of for-profit and non-profit organizations.  There is no registration fee  •  CEU credits are offered  •  Light breakfast & lunch included.  Go here… Read more »

Federal Government Strips Legal Rights of Older Consumers in Nursing Homes FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 17, 2019 National Consumer Law Center contact: Jan Kruse ([email protected]) or (617) 542-8010 Washington – Late yesterday, the U.S. Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released its final nursing home arbitration rule, allowing nursing homes to force residents into arbitration and depriving them… Read more »

The Agency on Aging of South Central CT is looking for partners for the annual TEARS Conference.  Go here for more information.  Sponsorship, exhibitor tables and resource guide ads are available. Your Organization Benefits You will have direct contact with the over 600 professionals attending. These professionals have direct contact with thousands of consumers. Older… Read more »

July 25th Legal helplines and hotlines receive many calls each day that have to be screened for urgency and eligibility. Helpline providers also have to keep information organized for facilitating return calls and case management system input. Systems like automated workflow can improve the experience for both callers and helpline providers. This webcast will present… Read more »

Protecting Older Adults Against Abusive Telemarketing Scams When: Wednesday, July 17, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. PT/2:00 p.m. ET. The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) is a federal law that helps consumers challenge abusive solicitation methods. This webcast will provide a full introduction to this underutilized federal law and highlight methods advocates can use to challenge abusive debt… Read more »

2019 Elder Justice Training The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, State Unit on Aging is co-sponsoring a training for professionals in the aging network, attorneys, bankers, social workers, healthcare professional, APS staff and long-term care ombudsmen and their volunteers.  Kathy Greenlee, President & CEO, Greenlee Global, LLC and former Assistant Secretary of Aging,… Read more »

When: Wednesday, June 19, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. PT/2:00 p.m. ET. by the National Center on Law & Elder Rights (NCLER) Courts name guardians to protect adults from abuse, neglect, or exploitation; however, in some circumstances, guardians are perpetrators of such actions. Guardians wield immense power over adults in their care. More information is needed on the extent… Read more »

Cross-Cultural Communications Symposium: Moving from Empathy to Action A statewide one-day symposium for anyone seeking to communicate more effectively Thursday, June 6th | 8:30am to 4:30pm Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford, Connecticut Registration is Now Open!  “People make decisions based on shared cultural values.”  Nat Kendall-Taylor. CEO, Frameworks Institute We instinctively know that telling the right story… Read more »

2019 CARLSON FORUM: The Aging Experience: Discrimination in the Workplace June 6, 2019 ~ 8:30am -11:30am Il Monticello Banquet Facility, 577 S Broad St, Meriden, CT 06450 (Wallingford/Meriden town line) Keynote Speakers:  Attorney Kimberly Jacobsen, Attorney Cheryl A. Sharp, Deputy Director of the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights & Opportunities (CHRO) Carlson Award Honoree:  Attorney Kevin Brophy, Director of Elder Law, CT Legal Services… Read more »

This Aging Matters conference will be held on May 3, 2019 from 8:30 am – 3:30 pm at the Keeney Center in Wethersfield, CT. Presented by:  Connecticut Coalition on Aging and Developmental Disabilities, The CT Department of Developmental Services. DORS CT State Unit on Aging, The CT Chapter of the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental… Read more »

The Road to Elder Justice – WEAAD Virtual Art Gallery The Elder Justice Roadmap helped prioritize how to address and prevent elder abuse. Now the aim is to celebrate and build on all of its accomplishments in the WEAAD (World Elder Abuse Awareness Day) Virtual Art Gallery. You are invited to create and submit art that provides an… Read more »

Join the AARP Fraud Watch Network for a presentation by Frank W. Abagnale to learn how the world’s leading expert can help you outsmart con artists. This is a free event. Thursday, June 6, 2019| 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 6:00 p.m.: Doors Open 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.: Main Event Mohegan Sun Convention Center, Sky Convention Center –… Read more »

Join issue experts from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Office for Older Americans for a free webinar on April 9th from 2:00pm – 3:00pm highlighting the findings from its new report, Suspicious Activity Reports on Elder Financial Exploitation: Issues and Trends. The webinar will provide key facts, trends, and patterns revealed in these Suspicious Activity Reports—or… Read more »

Social Security Call Scam is on the rise again in Connecticut (2/11/19):  There have been several reports from Connecticut residents that they are receiving calls that their Social Security number has been compromised. This is a scam and you should not provide any information to the caller. Hang up and report it to the Federal… Read more »

When: Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at 11:00 am PT/2:00 pm ET.  Recognizing elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults over the phone presents unique challenges for legal helpline and hotline advocates, and it requires skills specific to phone communication. Elder abuse may be hidden within the issue presented by the caller, and legal aid attorneys,… Read more »

A Multi-disciplinary Training Event:  CDAA National Elder & Dependent Adult Abuse, April 15-18, 2019 @ the Hyatt Regency Orange County, Anaheim, CA.  This training is designed for prosecutors, investigators, law enforcement, adult protective services administrators and case workers, state and local agency personnel, medical professionals, coroners and medical examiners, and victim/witness advocates who work with… Read more »

Lifting Up Voices for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) 2019:  Lifting Up the Voices of Older Survivors is both the title and the foundation for a new video project which features survivors throughout the Unites States sharing their stories and experiences of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and financial exploitation. Additionally, the National Center on Elder Abuse… Read more »

Romance scams are not limited to Valentine’s Day.  These scams happen when a new love pretends to be interested in you as a way to get your money and it happens more than you might think. In fact 26% of Connecticut residents polled in a new AARP survey reported that they, a family member or a… Read more »

On November 9th the Coalition of Elder Justice in CT brought an array of topics impacting the elder justice world. Attendees heard from their peers on the innovative and collaborative work of the Probate Court and advocates that is creating change for those in need of support.  

The National Center on Law & Elder Rights (NCLER) has launched an updated website, featuring new tools to help people and organizations access the information they need to serve older adults in their communities.

Why Few of the Millions of Elder Abuse Cases Get Reported Each Year