Aging News Alert
Alabama
Free Program Designed to Help Low Vision People
The Low Vision Focus program is a series of 10 free audio lesson topics designed to help those living with low vision maintain their independence by sharing practical ways to address daily living skills.
New Centers to Focus on Chronic Disease
Funds will establish specialized Transdisciplinary Collaborative Centers (TCCs) for health disparities research focused on chronic disease prevention. The emphasis will be on developing, implementing and disseminating community-based multilevel interventions.
Alabama AAA Hosts Annual Benefits Day for Seniors
The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of the Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging, located in Calera, AL, just completed its third-annual Blooming Benefits Day, an event aimed at helping the elderly, disabled and caregivers better navigate the services available to them.
Alabama AAA Hosts 'Be Your Own Valentine' Wellness & Enrollment Event
Valentine's Day is right around the corner and the Middle Alabama Area on Aging (M4A) is celebrating the event by encouraging seniors to take care of their own hearts and health.
(ALABAMA) 'Safe Center' Concept Becomes Model for Senior Centers Everywhere
The Alabama Department of Senior Services (ADSS) and its top executive, Commissioner Irene Collins, are being honored for developing what ADSS is calling the "Safe Center" concept. The Alabama agency has been named winner in the "Senior Citizens' Preparedness Award" category at the 2009 National Hurricane Conference in Austin, TX. The Safe Center concept, a storm-proof structure that provides a safe refuge for seniors in times of emergency, is the result of a partnership between ADSS, the U.S. Administration on Aging, Alabama Emergency Management Agency and the Alabama Department of Economic & Community Affairs.
CMS Names Sites for Pilot Program Aimed at Elevating Quality as Patients Move Across Care Settings
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on Monday (April 13) identified 14 communities around the nation that have been chosen for the agency's Care Transitions Project, which seeks to eliminate unnecessary hospital readmissions.
Quaker Oats Announces New Grant Program to Help Combat Hunger
As part of its Quaker Go Project, Quaker Oats has announced a new grant program to support people working to combat hunger at the community level. This is a great opportunity for Meals on Wheels programs and other nutrition-related projects that serve seniors. But you need to get moving right away. Deadline for submissions is March 31.
Deadline Approaches for Senior Medicare Patrol Grants
The deadline for grant applications for the 2009 Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) Program is fast approaching. March 13 is the closing date for this significant funding opportunity.
Weight Loss in Overweight and Obese Women Reduces Urinary Incontinence
Reducing urinary incontinence can now be added to the extensive list of health benefits of weight loss, according to a clinical trial funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and the Office of Research on Women's Health (ORWH), both part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Hospice Company Pays $24.7 Million to Settle Healthcare Fraud Claims
SouthernCare Inc. and its shareholders have agreed to pay the United States a total of $24.7 million to settle allegations that the Birmingham, AL-based company submitted false claims to the government for patients treated at its hospice facilities, U.S. Justice Department (DoJ) officials tell us. SouthernCare operates approximately 99 locations that provide hospice services in 15 states.
CMS Names Final Five Medicare Contractors To Administer Claims Payments
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has named the final five contractors that will process and pay Medicare claims for healthcare services under the Medicare Fee-for-Service program. The new contracts that will be administered for up to five years will process and pay 36% of the national volume of Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) claims payments in 14 states, mostly in the South and Midwest.
Congress OKs Bill Protecting Senior Retirement Savings
Congress has taken an important step to help senior citizens whose retirement savings have been hit by market losses. The House and Senate have approved a pension bill containing a provision that suspends the minimum distribution requirement for retirement accounts for the year 2009.
NIEHS Invests $21.25 Million To Find Environmental Causes Of Parkinson’s Disease
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), will award three new grants totaling $21.25 million over a five-year period to study how environmental factors contribute to the cause, prevention and treatment of Parkinson’s disease and other related disorders.
Technology Improves Quality Of Life For AL Facilities’ Residents, Staff
With the number of people affected by Alzheimer's disease expected to triple in the next five to 10 years, assisted living (AL) facilities are in need of new technology-based solutions to improve the efficiency and quality of care for their growing number of residents. A new technology solution, dubbed the TracPoint system, uses ultra wideband (UWB) real-time location system (RTLS) technology from Time Domain Corp. to monitor residents, staff and medical equipment, and improve facility operations and security.
Gustav Evacuees Returning to Unknown Conditions
Although Hurricane Gustav evacuees in Gulf Coast states, including the elderly who reside in nursing homes, are being allowed by authorities to return to their homes, there has been no comprehensive assessment of how much damage the storm did and the condition their residences. Meanwhile, the state officials are carefully analyzing weather information to assess whether another evacuation may be required.
HHS Program To Improve Disaster Assistance
The Department of Health & Human Services is implementing the Disaster Case Management demonstration program to make it easier for disaster victims to obtain a wide range of assistance and socialcservices. The program will aid people from the Louisiana parishes covered under President Bush's disaster declaration related to Hurricane Gustav.
President, HHS Secy. Respond To Hurricane Gustav With State of Emergency Declaration
Are you affected by Hurricane Gustav? Need information about applicable waivers and modifications? Here's what you need to know.
National Think Tank Releases State Rankings on Health Ownership
Americans lack the basic freedom to make their own healthcare decisions, says the author of the second edition of the U.S. Index of Health Ownership, an annual report by the Pacific Research Institute (PRI). The Index measures the degree to which individuals -- be they patients, health professionals, entrepreneurs, or taxpayers -- "own" the healthcare in their states.
New Regulation Requires Sprinklers in All LTC Facilities
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services have published a final rule requiring the installation of sprinkler systems in all long-term care facilities by Aug. 13, 2013. The American Health Care Assn., which worked with CMS t...
AoA Providing Disaster Assistance for SUAs
Agency: Admin. on Aging. Program: Disaster Assistance for State Units on Aging (SUAs) and Tribal Organizations (CFDA Number 93.048. Eligibility: SUAs and federally recognized tribal organizations within states or pa...
New Medicare Law Will Help Beneficiaries
While reporting on the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA), passed July 15 to override a veto by President Bush, focused primarily on the provisions canceling a pay cut for physicians that went into effect July 1, the Center for Medicare Advocacy issued a release citing other...
Searching For The Fountain of Youth
The search for the highly fabled, disgustingly illusive "Fountain of Youth" continues into the 21st century -- more than 600 years after Juan Ponce de León first claimed he found it somewhere in what is now northern Florida. Today, the quest for eternal youth is scientific in nature -- and researchers are more determined than ever to succeed.
Nursing Home Payment Rates Increased; RUGs Recalibration To Be Studied Further
Medicare payment rates to nursing homes will increase by $780 million next year, officials at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services(CMS) say. The boost in payments is the result of a 3.4% increase in the annual market basket calculation of the cost of goods and services included in a skilled nursing facility stay. The price of the items in the basket is measured every year and Medicare payments are adjusted accordingly.
Housing Bill Poised For Senate Approval, President's Signature
After nearly a year of haggling over various aspects of housing market rescue and months of debate over what became the proposed Economic Recovery Act of 2008, the House approves the measure on a 272-152 vote late Wednesday afternoon and sent the measure to the Senate where Democratic leaders say it will pass.
Congress Overrides Veto of Medicare Improvement Bill
Following President Bush’s veto of the Medicare improvement bill (HR 6331), both chambers of Congress on Tuesday (July 15) voted to override the veto. The House approved the override by a vote of 383 -41, while the Senate voted 70-26.
AoA Makes $10.9 Million Available For Alzheimer's Disease Demo Grants
The Administration on Aging (AoA) is making availabile $10.9 million for Alzheimer's Disease Demonstration Grants to States Projects. Funding is available for states through two ADDGS Program Announcements: "Innovation Grants to Better Serve People with ADRD" and "Evidence-Based Intervention Translation Grants to Serve People with People with ADRD and their Caregivers." Both announcements provide the opportunity for the Aging Services Network and its partners to modernize and strengthen their approach to helping individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias and their caregivers.
NH Gov. Lynch Signs Senior Investor Protection Legislation Into Law
New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch (D) has signed into law HB 1274, making his the first state to legislatively adopt provisions based on the North American Securities Administrators Association's Model Rule on the Use of Senior Certifications and Professional Designations.
Last-Minute Intervention Puts Medicare Physician Fee Cut On Hold
At the last minute, the Bush administration has interceded for physicians with the Department of Health & Human Services and postponed the 10.6% Medicare payment cut that was supposed to take effect today (July 1).
Prostate Cancer Coalition Report Shows States Making the Grade
Many states need a bit more schooling when it comes to prostate cancer screening and legislation, according to the just-released 2008 Prostate Cancer Report Card issued by the National Prostate Cancer Coalition (NPCC). The report assesses each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia, and assigns a grade based on critical areas like mortality and screening rates, state insurance mandates and support for prostate cancer-related legislation.
Patients ‘Overdose’ On Debt As Lenders, Docs, Hospitals Push Risky Credit
Some of the biggest names in the consumer credit business, including GE Money, Citigroup and Chase, are pushing risky credit for financing medical procedures, according to the latest issue of Consumer Reports, published by the nonprofit advocacy group Consumers Union.
Witnesses Call For End To Asset Tests For Part D Low-Income Subsidy
Witnesses at a May 22 Senate Special Committee on Aging hearing support an end to an asset test for the low income subsidy for Medicare Part D recipients, but bipartisan legislation to increase the allowable levels is stalled by disagreement between Democrats and Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee about how to pay for those measures and an 18-month delay for a scheduled 10.6% cut in physician fees.
Funding To Study Healthcare Public Reporting, Pay-for-Performance
Preference will be given to those applicants who may be either public entities or nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.
CMS Proposes Revisions In MA Program, Special Needs Plans
CMS proposes revisions to the Medicare Advantage program and prescription drug benefit) that could impact the way so-called "dual eligible" beneficiaries obtain services.
Senators Push Bill To House Gulf Coast Seniors
Sens. Mary Landrieu (D-LA), Thad Cochran (R-MS), and Roger Wicker (R-MS) have introduced a bill to address the shortage of housing for Gulf Coast low-income seniors and disabled people who were displaced as a result of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
CMS Posts Two Notices In May 7 Federal Register
One notice is a proposed rule to update payment rates used under the prospective payment system for skilled nursing facilities. The second notice updates prospective payment rates for Medicare inpatient psychiatric hospital services provided by inpatient psychiatric facilities.
Assisted Living Conversion Program for Eligible Multifamily Housing Projects
HUD is making grant funding available for its Assisted Living Conversion Program for Eligible Multifamily Housing Projects. The deadline for applications is July 3, 2008. The award ceiling is $24.75 million.
Report Examines One-Stop Career Centers' Aid to Older Workers
GAO) has released a report examining one-stop career centers as a means to link older workers with employers through employment and training services.
EPA Updates Information on Climate Change and Older Adults
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recently added information about climate change and older adults to its website.
Debunking Myths About Switching To Digital TV Next Year
Quite a few people -- many of them elderly and on fixed incomes -- are under the impression that unless they go out and buy an expensive new HDTV, they won't be able to watch their favorite TV shows after Feb. 17, 2009, which is the day the national transition to digital television takes place. That simply isn't so.
10 Non-Financial Tips for Retiring Boomers
If your organization deals with any of the millions of baby boomers who are beginning to think about retirement, here are 10 tips from co-founder of Life Options Institute, an organization devoted to helping people plan for life after age 50.
MindAlert Funds Available For Brain Fitness Programs
Are you interested in learning more about brain fitness, programs and techniques to stimulate the aging mind? Host a workshop that highlights award-winning brain fitness programs
Prevent Shingles -- A Vaccine
If you're 60 or older, you may be at risk of getting shingles. For some people who get shingles, the malady is short-lived and only mildly uncomfortable. For many others, shingles can be a long-lasting ailment causing considerable pain.
Alliance for Caregiving, MetLife Foundation Seek Applications for Caregiving Awards
The National Alliance for Caregiving and the MetLife Foundation tell us that applications will soon be accepted for the 2008 National Family Caregiving Awards Program.
Medicare To Save Average of 26% For Some DMEPOS
A new method of paying for some items of medical equipment and supplies means that Medicare beneficiaries who use those items in ten select regions of the country will see average savings of 26 percent.
EPA Releases Physiological Parameters Database for Older Adults
Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic models have increasingly been employed in chemical health risk assessments carried out by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and it is anticipated that their use will continue to increase.
New Orleans Seniors To Get New Affordable Housing Community
Hundreds of elderly New Orleans residents displaced by Hurricane Katrina will soon be able to return home to the Crescent City thanks to the efforts of Volunteers of America.
DOL Makes Online Tool Available For Retirement Planning
The U.S. Department of Labor has unveiled a new online resource that makes it easier for Americans to prepare for a financially secure retirement.
Unique Social Network Targets 45+ Demographic
Bolder Broadcasting Inc., an Orlando, FL-based content provider specializing in the 45+ market, launches GrowingBolder.com, a unique online community for men and women (we daren't use the "O" word here) interested in living life to its fullest.
CBO Uses Medicare in Examining Regional Healthcare Cost
CBO purposely chose to concentrate on Medicare spending because there are more data available about the cost of providing healthcare to Medicare beneficiaries than there are for other populations. Also, as the largest federal healthcare program, Medicare is highly relevant to and directly influenced by federal policy.
African-Americans Concerned About Heart Health; Less Aware of Alzheimer's
February is Black History Month and American Heart Month, so the Alzheimer's Assn. is teaming up with the American Heart Assn. in an effort to educate African-Americans that by managing their cardiovascular risk, they may also strengthen their cognitive health.
Labor Dept. Proposes Update for FMLA
The U.S. Department of Labor is proposing to update its regulations under the 15-year-old Family & Medical Leave Act to help workers and their employers better understand their rights and responsibilities.
FDA Approves Drug-Eluting Stent for Clogged Heart Arteries
The Food & Drug Admin. has approved the Endeavor Zotarolimus-Eluting Coronary Stent for use in treating patients with narrowed coronary arteries, the blood vessels supplying the heart.
New Federal Poverty Level Guidelines to Affect Medicare, Medicaid
New federal poverty level guidelines published this week will affect eligibility levels for many public benefits, including health benefits for older people and people with disabilities.
Experts Warn of Needed Policy Changes in Medicare, Social Security
Unless policy changes are made to strengthen Medicare and Social Security, millions of seniors will experience serious declines in their financial and health security, finds the author of a new, groundbreaking study.
White Papers Focus on Tech's Effect on Aging
A nonprofit senior housing company in Minnesota offers two new white papers examining how technology is changing the face of aging in America.
New Issue Brief Examines Medicare Financing
The rapid growth in the nation's healthcare expenditures and overall demographic trends pose a challenge to Medicare's financing in the 21st century.
Doctor Gets 10.5-Year Prison Term for Medicare Fraud
A Michigan dermatologist has been sentenced to a term of 126 months' imprisonment on 31 counts of healthcare fraud.
Committee Leadership Seeks SBA Intervention to Delay Bidding Program
The chairman and ranking member of the U.S. House Small Business Committee's subcommittee on Investigation & Oversight have sent a letter SBA Administrator Steven Preston asking SBA to "intervene with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to delay implementation of the final rule on competitive bidding for DMEPOS until the Office of Advocacy can sufficiently assess the economic impact of the rule on small businesses."
Tips for Helping Elders with Depression during Holidays
While millions of people suffer late life depression year round, the situation is exacerbated during the holidays.
Applications Sought for Geriatrics Education Specialty Residents Program
The Geriatrics Education for Specialty Residents Program, a key component of the project, is designed to improve the amount and quality of geriatric education received by medical and surgical residents. The program provides small grant support to bring geriatrics expertise into residency programs.
Should Hospice Providers Analyze Dollars vs. Patients' Status?
It appears hospice providers are being penalized for caring for patients who live longer than six months.
-
ANA Home
-
Bulletin Board
-
Grant Deadline Calendar
-
Document Library
-
Issue Archive
- Sep 02 16 - web
- Aug 26 16 - web
- Aug 19 16 - web
- Aug 12 16 - web
- Aug 05 16 - web
- Jul 29 16 - web
- Jul 22 16 - web
- Jul 15 16 - web
- Jul 08 16 - web
- Jul 01 16 - web
- Jun 24 16 - web
- Jun 17 16 - web
- Jun 10 16 - web
- Jun 03 16 - web
- May 27 16 - web
- May 20 16 - web
- May 13 16 - web
- May 06 16 - web
- Apr 29 16 - web
- Apr 22 16 - web
- Apr 15 16 - web
- Apr 08 16 - web
- Apr 01 16 - web
- Mar 25 16 - web
- Mar 18 16 - web
- Mar 11 16 - web
-
Agency
-
Eligibility
-
Funders/ Organization
-
Categories
- Story of the Week
- Advertising/Marketing
- Advocacy
- Alzheimer
- Americans with Disabilities
- Analysis
- Assisted living
- Best of the Best
- Best Practices
- Budget
- Business Expansion
- Capitol Hill
- Caregiving
- Commentary
- Consumer Spending
- Courts
- Dementia
- Diabetes
- Discrimination
- Elder Abuse
- Elder abuse prevention
- Elder Care
- End of Life
- Enforcement
- Events Calendar
- Federal Agencies
- Financial Services
- Fitness & Health
- Funding News
- Funding Opportunities
- General
- Healthcare Reform
- Hospice
- Housing
- Housing Assistance/Funding
- Industry News
- Innovation
- Long-Term Care
- Medicare/Medicaid
- Message From The Editor
- Movers & Shakers
- Natural Disasters
- News for Older Americans
- News in the States
- Nursing Homes
- Nutrition
- Policymaking
- Programs
- Readers Help Line
- Research and Reports
- Retirement
- Selling to Seniors
- Senior disability
- Senior Law
- Senior living
- Services
- Social Security
- State Funding Grants
- Transportation
- Veterans
- White House
- Workforce
-
States
- Alabama
- Alaska
- American Samoa
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Guam
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Puerto Rico
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virgin Islands
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
-
Region