aging_v1

Seeking Public Comments on 2027-2029 Area Plan

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:38:20 GMT

The East Texas Area Agency on Aging (ETAAA), a program of the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG), is inviting the public to review and comment on our 2027 to 2029 Area Plan.

ETAAA serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Planning and Service Area 4, a fourteen-county region in East Texas. The Area Plan outlines our strategy to strengthen the Aging Services Network and address the needs of people age 60 and older, family caregivers, and individuals with disabilities. It also guides how we plan, coordinate, and oversee services supported by the Older Americans Act and other state and local initiatives.

Our mission is to serve as the region’s leader in advocating for and delivering services that enable older adults to live independently, with dignity and purpose, in their homes and communities. Our vision, “Age Well, Live Well, ” reflects a person-centered approach focused on better choices, improved health, and access to nutritious food. We call it “Serving One Senior at a Time.”

The 2027–2029 Area Plan is guided by a needs assessment incorporating data, service trends, and stakeholder input. Key priority needs include access to home- and community-based services, caregiver support, transportation, nutrition and food security, social isolation, healthcare access and chronic disease management, and improved service coordination and system navigation.

How to share your input

Public comments will be accepted through April 26, 2026 .

Submit comments by mail or email:

Mail: Area Agency on Aging, 3800 Stone Road, Kilgore, TX 75662
Email: Colleen.Halliburton@etcog.org

Area Agency on Aging Announces New Senior Meal Site in Marshall

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 19:15:42 GMT

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) opened a new congregate meal site in Marshall on Monday, December 15th. Older adults, aged 60 and up, eligible for the Senior Nutrition Program will be able to enjoy a hot lunch, good conversation, and a friendly place to gather.

Location

George Washington Carver Community Center

2302 Holland St

Marshall, TX 75670

Meal Hours

Monday–Thursday

11:00 AM–12:30 PM

Phone

903-923-8410

The Senior Nutrition Program supports adults age 60 and older through both congregate meals and home-delivered meals. These meals follow dietary guidelines and help older adults stay connected and healthy. For folks who can’t travel, home-delivered meals bring food, a wellness check, and a bit of company to their door.

How to Enroll

Adults age 60 and older can join the Senior Nutrition Program by contacting the provider for their county listed at: easttexasaaa.org/nutrition , or by receiving a referral from AAA staff.

Caregivers who care for someone receiving home-delivered meals may also be referred for services by calling AAA.

The Carver Community Center site will give more Marshall and Harrison County residents a place to eat, visit, and keep a steady routine. If you or someone you know could benefit, contact the AAA for assistance!

Explore Your Medicare Plan Options with our Certified Benefits Counselors

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:53:09 GMT

Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 until December 7, and people with Medicare will have more coverage options to consider. Plan costs and covered benefits have changed, so our Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) is offering benefits counseling assistance to encourage Medicare recipients to review their coverage choices and decide on the options that best fit their health needs.

The changes Medicare recipients can make during Open Enrollment include:

Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan
Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan
Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan)

“Medicare Open Enrollment allows you the opportunity to review your healthcare plan and check on your financial well-being, which could also help save costs and coverage,” says AAA Benefits Counselor Nellie Spencer. “Call us and talk to an unbiased, qualified Benefits Counselor. We are also your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and available free of charge to go over your options.”

For assistance, please call the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-442-8845 to speak to a qualified benefits counselor. Appointments can be made over the phone, in a virtual meeting, or in person.

Local Open Enrollment presentations:

Benefits counselors will also be available for appointments at these community events during the Open Enrollment period. To reserve your spot, call the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-442-8845. Walk-ins will be accepted.

Palestine Resource Center for Independent Living, 421 Avenue A, Palestine, TX

Date: Tuesday, November 4th Time: 9:00 am-3:00 pm

George Washington Carver Community Center, 2303 Holland St., Marshall, TX

Date: Thursday, November 6th Time: 10:00 am-2:00 pm

Mt. Zion C.M.E. Church, 104 State Hwy. 64, Ben Wheeler, TX

Date: Thursday, November 13th Time: 1:00 pm-3:30 pm

First Christian Church, 1920 Beaumont St., Jacksonville, TX

Date: Thursday, November 20th Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm

Be on alert for these Medicare Open Enrollment scams:

There are no "limited time offers."
Medicare or a health plan calls and wants to send you a new health card for $299.
You receive a call about a refund from last year's premiums or your drug plan cost.
An agent tries to sign you up for a plan that you don't need, isn't right for you, or doesn't even exist.
Watch out for fake RX cards offering significant discounts with little or no benefits.
You receive a call offering significant discounts on a new health insurance plan.
Agents can NOT cold call you.

Tips on how to stop fraud during Open Enrollment:

If it's "too good to be true," it probably is.
Don't trust all the ads you see on TV. Review the plan BEFORE you join.
Even if you're not switching, review your current plan to ensure it covers your doctors.
Medicare will never call or visit. Medicare will only send information via postal mail service.
Guard your Medicare card and number like a credit card.
Don't give out your Medicare number except to your doctor or other providers.
Don't let someone push you into making a fast decision.
If you receive a call, especially from a number you do not recognize or anyone requesting personal information, hang up immediately.
Know your health care options. Get help from your family, the Medicare website, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which for East Texas is the AAA.
No health care plan is allowed to cold call.

Medicare plans can be viewed and compared at www.medicare.gov .

ETCOG Welcomes Adrian Cornejo as New Director of Aging Programs

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 19:16:39 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Adrian Cornejo as the new Director of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA). In this role, Cornejo will lead efforts to develop and coordinate services that support the health, independence, and quality of life of older adults across ETCOG’s fourteen-county region.

Cornejo brings a strong background in healthcare leadership and military service. He most recently worked as an Account Manager for Humana’s Institutional Special Needs Plan program, where he partnered with skilled nursing facilities to improve care coordination, leading to a 20% reduction in hospital readmissions. Earlier in his career, Cornejo served in the United States Navy for nearly two decades, rising to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer and managing budgets exceeding $550 million while leading more than 350 Sailors and Marines.

“Adrian’s leadership experience in both healthcare and the military has equipped him with the skills and dedication needed to serve East Texas seniors,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “His background in building partnerships and his deep commitment to public service make him a tremendous asset to our team.”

Cornejo shared his enthusiasm for his new role, saying, “It is an honor to join ETCOG and to serve the seniors of East Texas. My goal is to build on the strong foundation already in place at the Area Agency on Aging and continue to expand access to services that help older adults and their families live with dignity and independence.”

The AAA is administered through ETCOG and is part of a nationwide network created through the Older Americans Act of 1965. It provides a wide range of services, including information and referral, benefits counseling, case management, health education, senior nutrition programs, housing repair, caregiver support, and Ombudsman advocacy for individuals in long-term care facilities. These programs are designed to help older residents remain active and independent in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

Get Medicare Help You Can Trust – One-on-One or in a Group

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 13:53:39 GMT

Medicare Open Enrollment is right around the corner, and with so many plans and choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Our certified benefits counselors are here to help—whether you prefer to sit down one-on-one or schedule an educational session for your group or organization. They provide clear, unbiased information about Medicare so you can make informed decisions that fit your needs.

These services are free and available to individuals, families, churches, senior centers, civic clubs, and other local groups.

If you or someone you know has questions about Medicare coverage, upcoming changes, or available plans, now is the time to reach out.

To schedule an appointment or request a group presentation, contact us at 1-800-442-8845 or www.easttexasaaa.org/request-speaker .

USAging Announces New Public Awareness Campaign to Raise Visibility of Area Agencies on Aging

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 19:54:57 GMT

USAging is celebrating 50 years as the national organization that represents Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Title VI Native American Aging Programs. As part of the 50th anniversary, USAging has launched a new public awareness campaign— Area Agencies on Aging: Helping You Live Long and Stay Strong .

The goal of this campaign is to make the public aware of AAAs as a vital community resource and to educate consumers about the range of important services that AAAs offer to older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers. There are more than 600 AAAs serving every community across the country ready to help them to age well where most want—at home and in their community.

All people hope to enjoy a long and healthy life—but many find that they need a little help as they go through the aging journey.

“Research has shown that two-thirds of older adults will need some support to age well at home,” said USAging CEO Sandy Markwood. “But people often don’t know about AAA services or seek them out until they are in crisis—thereby missing the opportunity to connect to the range of services that are available to help them age well.”

Services Provided by AAAs

For Older Adults:

Home-delivered and congregate meals: Nutritious meals at home or in group settings.
In-home support: Assistance with daily tasks like bathing, cleaning and dressing.
Transportation: Rides to medical appointments, stores and community activities.
Health and wellness programs: Fall prevention, chronic disease management fitness classes.
Benefits counseling: Help understanding and enrolling in Medicare, Medicaid and more.

For Caregivers:

Respite care: Short-term relief to prevent burnout.
Training and support: Educational tools and support groups for caregivers.
Information and referral : Guidance to local programs, services and community resources.

“By 2035, older adults are expected to outnumber children under age 18 for the first time in the history of this country,” said Markwood. “By 2040, a full 22 percent of the American population will be 65 years or older. Currently, there are more than 53 million unpaid family caregivers in the United States. There has never been a more crucial time for people to learn about AAAs and the services that are available to them to help them live long and stay strong.”

For more information, visit www.usaging.org/livelongstaystrong or connect with your local AAA by contacting the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov .

Area Agency on Aging to Host Community Events Celebrating Older Americans Month

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 17:25:06 GMT

Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will join organizations nationwide in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM). This month-long observance honors the contributions of seniors in our communities. To mark the occasion, AAA will host and collaborate with local organizations for four special celebration events across East Texas, held at senior centers and community hubs. These events will highlight the importance of connection and the role strong relationships play in maintaining a vibrant, healthy senior population.

OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” challenges outdated perceptions and encourages a fresh perspective on aging. It promotes a shift in how society talks about, understands, and supports older adults, empowering communities to embrace aging in a more positive and inclusive way.

Join Us for These Community Celebrations!

The following OAM events are open to the public and will feature food, entertainment, door prizes, and valuable information about services available to East Texas seniors:

�� May 7 – Henderson Community Building, 302 Fair Park, Henderson | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

�� May 15 – First United Methodist Church, 225 Lovers Ln, Athens | 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM

�� May 16 – Jefferson Senior Center, 111 W. Broadway, Jefferson | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

�� May 21 – Harrison County Agrilife Extension Office, 2005 Warren Drive, Marshall | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

The AAA advocates for seniors and provides essential services, including benefits counseling, case management, health education, nutrition programs, referrals, and Ombudsman support for those in assisted living. These services promote independence and dignity, helping seniors remain in their communities. For event inquiries, call (903) 218-6500.

Medicare Open Enrollment Starts Today - Explore Your Options with our Certified Benefits Counselors

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 20:39:05 GMT

Assistance is available to find and compare 2025 health and drug plans now

East Texas, October 15, 2024: Medicare Open Enrollment runs from now until December 7, and people with Medicare will have more coverage options to consider. Plan costs and covered benefits have changed, so our Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) is offering benefits counseling assistance to encourage Medicare recipients to review their coverage choices and decide on the options that best fit their health needs.

The changes Medicare recipients can make during Open Enrollment include:

Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan
Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan
Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan)

"Today marks the first day of Medicare Open Enrollment! It's the perfect time to review your Medicare coverage and make any necessary changes. Did you know that we serve as the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and can provide free, unbiased help to Medicare beneficiaries? Whether you need assistance understanding your coverage options, comparing plans, or enrolling in a new plan, we can provide personalized assistance, " said AAA's Lead Benefits Counselor, Juanita Beason.

For assistance, please call the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-442-8845 to speak to a qualified benefits counselor. Appointments can be made over the phone, in a virtual meeting, or in person.

Local Open Enrollment presentations:

Benefits counselors will also be available for appointments at these community events during Open Enrollment. To reserve your spot, call the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-442-8845.

Thursday, November 7 9 AM to 3 PM – George Washington Carver Community Center, 2302 Holland St, Marshall, TX 75670
Wednesday, November 13 9 AM to 2:30 PM – Panola Senior Complex, 101 Senior Ave. Carthage, TX 75633
Tuesday, November 19 9 AM to 3 PM – Palestine Resource Center, 421 Avenue A. Palestine TX 75801
Thursday, November 21 9 AM to 3 PM – Habitat for Humanity of Camp County, 447 Mt. Pleasant St. Pittsburg, TX 75686

Medicare plans can be viewed and compared at www.medicare.gov

Visit https://www.easttexasaaa.org/open-enrollment to request an appointment

Area Agency on Aging to host 33rd Annual REACH Conference to Educate Individuals Who Work with Seniors

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 18:11:14 GMT

October 2-3, 2024 | Maude Cobb - Longview

We can't wait to host hundreds of area nursing facility administrators, practitioners, caregivers, and others who work with seniors at our 33rd annual REACH Conference (Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare) next month! The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) hosts the annual conference to provide educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities. This year's conference will be held at Maude Cobb in Longview on October 2-3 and is ideal for professionals or caregivers serving older adults and persons with disabilities.

" We are thrilled to present our 33rd annual REACH Conference, 'Many Teams...One Dream.' This conference is for the professional and personal caregivers who are giving so much of themselves to care for our elders. We know caregiving is challenging but rewarding, and we want to provide them with the resources and support they need to thrive," said ETCOG's Aging Director, Colleen Halliburton.

The REACH Conference offers a wide range of topics related to aging, including:

The physical and emotional challenges of aging
How to take care of yourself while you are caring for an older adult
Legal and financial issues related to aging
Resources and support for professional and personal caregivers
Research on aging

It also offers Continuing Education Credits to assist participants in maintaining their licenses. The two-day conference costs $125. Visit our conference website, www.aaa-reachconference.org, to find out more and register!

Sponsorship Opportunities Now Available for the Annual REACH Conference

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 13:23:06 GMT

We are excited to announce that sponsorship opportunities are now available for the upcoming Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare (REACH) Conference. This annual event is dedicated to providing the most current information on aging trends, disability, and caregiving services.

REACH is a collaborative effort designed to offer educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities for professionals, caregivers, and anyone interested in aging issues. With a focus on the diverse concerns related to aging, the conference features local, regional, and state service providers and educators addressing a variety of topics pertinent to those who work with older adults, their caregivers, or their families.

By becoming a sponsor, you will have the chance to showcase your commitment to improving the lives of older adults and supporting caregivers. Sponsorship not only increases your visibility among a targeted audience but also aligns your brand with the values of education, care, and community support.

Sponsorship Benefits:

Prominent recognition in conference materials and promotions
Opportunity to connect with a dedicated and engaged audience
Enhanced visibility for your organization’s services and products
Contribution to the advancement of education and resources in aging, caregiving, and healthcare

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of an impactful event that makes a real difference in our community. For more details on sponsorship levels and benefits, please visit our website at www.aaa-reachconference.org .

Area Agency on Aging is Seeking Volunteers for the Ombudsman Program

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 21:23:19 GMT

ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging program has an immediate need for warm-hearted volunteers to help residents of nursing and assisted living facilities throughout East Texas to serve as Ombudsmen volunteers. Ombudsmen advocate for residents’ rights including, but not limited to, dependable and consistent care and an environment that promotes the residents’ dignity, self-determination, and communication.

Volunteer Ombudsmen also receive and investigate complaints made by, or on behalf of, residents or their families. Since many residents do not receive regular visitors or have close relatives, it may be difficult for them to enlist advocates. Ombudsmen serve as advocates for all residents, connecting them to their broader communities, affirming their rights, and assisting them in resolving concerns.

“The residents we serve mostly want to be listened to. They want to feel heard,” said ETCOG’s Ombudsman program manager, Valerie Rushing. “We oversee 154 facilities in East Texas and encounter thousands of residents. Ombudsmen volunteers help give a voice to those who feel they don’t have a voice, and ensure they receive proper care.”

No prior experience is required to serve as a volunteer ombudsman, but volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and able to complete a free training course that consists of both classroom study and training at local nursing homes. After training, volunteers serve an internship, working one to three hours per week in their assigned facility. Hours are flexible and are determined by each volunteer.

Virtual Training

September 6,13, & 20, 2024

9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Interested volunteers may contact the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas, at 800-442-8845 or e-mail Valerie Rushing at Valerie.Rushing@etcog.org for more information.

June's Call to Action Against Elder Abuse

Fri, 31 May 2024 14:22:37 GMT

June marks Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the abuse, neglect, and exploitation faced by older adults. As the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA), we are committed to protecting and empowering our senior community. This month, we aim to educate, advocate, and inspire action to prevent elder abuse in all its forms.

We partner with Texas Adult Protective Services (APS) and work in conjunction with community partners to help prevent abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of those who are elderly or have disabilities. Texans have a duty to protect people of all ages from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Elderly and disabled Texans are susceptible to becoming victims of these crimes. The Lone Star State is home to more than 3.3 million residents over the age of 65 and more than 1.7 million disabled adults, and we must work diligently to protect these vulnerable populations.

Join us this June in raising awareness and taking action against elder abuse. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched on June 15, 2006, to raise awareness worldwide about elder abuse. On this day, the world is encouraged to wear purple.

For information on how to help prevent or report elder abuse, visit www.dfps.texas.gov .

Emory Senior Center Nationally Recognized for Community Garden

Wed, 29 May 2024 14:02:02 GMT

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas' senior nutrition center in Emory Center has garnered national recognition from the National Association of Nutrition and Agency Services Programs for its community garden program.

With a daily attendance of approximately 65 seniors, the Emory Senior Center is more than a meal site; it's a thriving hub of connection, engagement, and community. Participants are drawn to the center's welcoming atmosphere, where activities ranging from dominoes and cards to puzzles and bingo create an environment of fun and social interaction. In addition, the center serves as a group where friends share recipes, crafting endeavors, and dances.

Despite the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Emory Senior Center's resilience pushed through. Determined to maintain a positive atmosphere, participants initiated a project to establish a community garden within the senior center. With the support of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA), raised planters were constructed and donated. The flourishing flowers and harvest of fresh vegetables stand as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and excitement of the center's participants.

In addition to the recognition, the Emory Senior Center received a special gift in honor of National Nutrition Month, which is celebrated in March to promote healthy practices among seniors.

Furthermore, the nutrition program's approach extends beyond meal sites to encompass comprehensive wellness initiatives offered by the AAA. Participants benefit from nutrition education, home-delivered meal services, and evidence-based health and wellness classes. These programs are accompanied by wellness checks and an opportunity for social interaction, combating isolation, and promoting overall well-being. With a commitment to promoting health, fostering connections, and enriching lives, the AAA 's Senior Nutrition Program aims to empower and uplift older individuals throughout East Texas.

Area Agency on Aging to Host Free Conference in Pittsburg

Fri, 03 May 2024 13:01:34 GMT

“Power in Community” Conference Will Cover Medicare Basics, Savings Programs, Preventing Fraud, Health and Wellness, and Community Resources

As we embrace Older Americans Month this May, ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging of East Texas proudly announces its upcoming conference, “Power in Community,” dedicated to empowering and celebrating the senior community. This event will be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the Douglass Alumni Community Center in Pittsburg, from 9:30 AM – 2 PM. It will gather esteemed healthcare professionals and advocates to explore crucial topics surrounding Medicare and the well-being of older adults.

With the "Power in Community" theme, the conference aims to provide invaluable insights, resources, and strategies to help seniors optimize their healthcare experiences. From understanding Medicare coverage options to navigating healthcare challenges, attendees will gain actionable knowledge to enhance their quality of life.

"As we honor Older Americans Month, it's imperative to recognize the invaluable contributions and wisdom of our senior population," said Colleen Halliburton, ETCOG’s Director of Aging. "Our Power in Community conference serves as a platform to not only celebrate their achievements but also to address the unique healthcare needs they face."

The event’s joint focus is celebrating our seniors during Older Americans Month and empowering them with community resources. The agenda will include fun activities such as bingo, door prizes, a Tai Chi demonstration, and interactive workshops led by the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas, the Area Agency on Aging of Ark-Tex Region, and the Texas Legal Services Center. The conference is geared toward seniors, children of aging parents, and caregivers.

"We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where older Americans feel empowered to make informed decisions about their health and well-being," added Halliburton. "Through collaborative efforts and community engagement, we can ensure seniors lead fulfilling and dignified lives."

Registration for the Medicare Conference is now open. To ensure their meal, guests are asked to RSVP to Nellie Spencer-Henry at 903-747-1319 by May 9th. For more information, please visit www.easttexasaaa.org .

Area Agency on Aging to Host Community Events Celebrating Older Americans Month in 2024

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 13:52:53 GMT

Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) is joining organizations across the nation to celebrate the seniors in our communities for Older Americans Month (OAM). The AAA will host and partner with organizations for six celebration events across East Texas at area senior centers and community centers focusing on connection – how communities can build relationships to maintain a healthy senior population.

OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, Powered by Connection , recognizes the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on our health and well-being.

The following OAM celebration events are open to the public and will include food, fun, door prizes, and information on services available to East Texas seniors:

May 8th at the Forever Young Activity Center, located at 404 S. Main St. in Quitman, from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
May 9th at the Harrison County Extension Office, located at 2005 Warren Dr. in Marshall, from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
May 14th at the Douglas Alumni Association Inc., located at 408 Terry St. in Pittsburg, from 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM
May 16th at the First United Methodist Church, located at 225 Lovers Ln in Athens, from 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM
May 30th at Central Baptist Church, located at 220 W. Sabine St. in Carthage, from 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM

The AAA serves as the region's leader in advocating and providing various services, such as information and referral, benefits counseling, case management, health education classes, senior nutrition, housing repair, and support through the Ombudsman program for people in nursing and assisted living facilities. These services help older individuals live independent, meaningful, and dignified lives in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. Contact the AAA for questions about the events by calling (903) 218-6500.

Unveiling the 2024 Older Americans Month Theme: Powered by Connection

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 14:43:51 GMT

As Spring approaches, we are thrilled to announce the 2024 Older Americans Month (OAM) theme – "Powered by Connection."

Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), this annual observance aims to recognize and honor the valuable contributions of older Americans. The chosen theme emphasizes the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on the health and well-being of our elderly population.

This year, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) is proud to join the nationwide celebration by hosting a series of events throughout May in our 14-county region.

In the spirit of collaboration, we invite local organizations to partner with us in hosting events that foster connections, share experiences, and promote the well-being of older Americans. The AAA is at the forefront of this effort, seeking host organizations to make a meaningful impact. If you or your organization is interested in being part of this initiative, we encourage you to reach out to Nellie Henry at nellie.henry@etcog.org .

By coming together and creating a network of support, we can ensure that the celebration of Older Americans Month goes beyond the confines of May. These events are not just about a month-long celebration; they are about building lasting connections, understanding the needs of our older community members, and empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.

Join us in making May a month of joy, shared experiences, and strengthened connections. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the well-being of older Americans in our community.

Benefits Counselors Assisting During Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 18:04:33 GMT

Enrollment Period is January 1 - March 31, 2024

Did you know that if you're unsatisfied with your Medicare Advantage Plan (Medicare Part C), you have options to change? Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment is an opportunity to make changes to your health plan from January 1 - March 31. You can do one of the following:

Switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan with or without drug coverage
Go back to Original Medicare and, if needed, also join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan

Whether you switch Medicare Advantage Plans or go back to the Original Medicare with or without a drug plan, your new plan will become effective the first of the following month.

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment period is not for people who already have original Medicare.

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas can help you find, compare, and enroll in a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare Drug Plan in your area. Give us a call at 1-800-442-8845 or 903-218-6500.

Area Agency on Aging to Assist with Benefits Counseling for Medicare Beneficiaries Through 2023 Open Enrollment

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:57:07 GMT

People with Medicare have more choices and options for their Medicare coverage in 2024. Plan costs and covered benefits have changed, so the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) encourages people with Medicare to look at their coverage choices and decide the options that best fit their health needs. Open Enrollment for 2024 Medicare health and drug plans begins on October 15, 2023, and ends on December 7, 2023, giving individuals a chance to modify their plans.

The changes Medicare recipients can make during Open Enrollment include:

Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan
Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan
Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan)

Beneficiaries should always shop for a new drug plan and Medicare Advantage plan each year to ensure they are getting the best coverage for the best price to suit their needs. Plans can be viewed and compared at www.medicare.gov.

“If you're feeling overwhelmed by Medicare Part D Open Enrollment, or if you have any questions about your options, don't hesitate to call the Area Agency on Aging for help. Our Benefits Counselors are here to help you compare plans based on your individual needs and guide you to make the best decisions for your health and your finances,” said ETCOG’s Aging Director Colleen Halliburton.

The AAA is also known as the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and is available to compare your current coverage with available options and assist you with enrollment at no cost. Speak to a qualified Benefits Counselor by calling the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-442-8845. You may set up an appointment and be advised over the phone, by virtual meeting, or in person.

Local schedules presentation

Our Certified Benefits Counselors have events scheduled for several counties in the 14-county ETCOG region. Benefits Counselors are available for appointments at these community events. To reserve your spot, call the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-442-8845. Events include:

Tuesday, October 17 9 AM – 2 PM – TASCA Activity Center, 10495 CR 2167 Whitehouse, TX 75791
Thursday, November 2 10 AM – 3 PM – St. Louis Baptist Church, 4000 Frankston HWY. Tyler, TX 75701
Wednesday, November 8 Appointment Only – Palestine Activity Center and Meals on Wheels of Palestine, 200 N Church St. Palestine, TX 75801
Thursday, November 16 | Appointment Only - Gilmer Senior Citizen Center, 206 Silver Alley Gilmer, TX 75644

Be on alert for these Medicare Open Enrollment scams:

Medicare or a health plan calls and wants to send you a new health card for $299.
You receive a call about a refund from last year’s premiums or your drug plan cost.
An agent tries to sign you up for a plan that you don’t need, isn’t right for you, or doesn’t even exist.
Watch out for fake RX cards offering significant discounts with little or no benefits.
You receive a call offering significant discounts on a new health insurance plan.

Tips on how to stop fraud during Open Enrollment:

Medicare will never call or visit. Medicare will only send information via postal mail service.
Guard your Medicare card and number like a credit card.
Don’t give out your Medicare number except to your doctor or other providers.
Don’t let someone push you into making a fast decision.
If you receive a call, especially from a number you do not recognize or anyone requesting personal information, hang up immediately.
Know your health care options. Get help from your family, the Medicare website, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
No health care plan is allowed to cold call.

For questions about fraud or to report a scam, please contact the Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-888-341-6187.

Area Agency on Aging to host 32nd Annual REACH Conference to Educate Individuals Who Work with Seniors

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 14:50:05 GMT

October 4-5 in Longview, TX

More than two hundred area nursing facility administrators, practitioners, caregivers, and others who work with seniors will receive training at the 32nd annual REACH Conference (Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare) next week. The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) hosts the annual conference to provide educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities. This year's conference will be held at Maude Cobb in Longview on October 4-5 and is ideal for professionals or caregivers serving older adults and persons with disabilities.

“We are thrilled to present our 32nd annual REACH Conference, ‘Taking Care While Giving Care.’ This conference is for the professional and personal caregivers who are giving so much of themselves to care for our elders. We know that caregiving is a challenging but rewarding role, and we want to provide them with the resources and support they need to thrive," said AAA Director Colleen Halliburton.

The 32nd REACH Conference offers a wide range of topics related to aging, including:

The physical and emotional challenges of aging
How to take care of yourself while you are caring for an older adult
Legal and financial issues related to aging
Resources and support for professional and personal caregivers
Research on aging

Keynote speaker presentations include:

Unforgettable: The Power of Partnership in the Pursuit of Justice and Equity in Dementia Research, Care, and Support - Carl Hill, Ph.D., Alzheimer’s Association; and Garrett Davis, Award Winning Playwright
Did COVID Give Me PTSD? – Tam Cummings, Ph.D., Dementia Expert;
Equity and Inclusion: Closing the Health Disparities Gap in Communities of Color – Garrett Davis, Award Winning Playwright
You Got the Right Stuff – Dr. Timothy McNeil, Sr., Founding Pastor of the Community Fellowship Church
Seeing the other side of Dementia and Living with Lewy Body Dementia – Luanne Harms, Dementia Expert
Generational Caregiving – The McAnally Family

This conference provides an opportunity to obtain Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) for ethics, social work, License Professional Counselors, Activity Directors, and Long Term Care Administrators. REACH is partially funded by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. To register for the event or for more information, call the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas at (903) 218-6500 or visit our conference website at www.aaa-reachconference.org.

Your Voice Matters: Shaping the Future of Aging with Input on the Older Americans Act

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 15:34:20 GMT

Comments taken until 11:59 PM on August 15, 2023.

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) has taken a meaningful step towards enhancing the lives of older Americans by proposing significant updates to the regulations governing the Older Americans Act (OAA) programs. With its roots dating back more than 30 years, this first significant overhaul seeks to address emerging issues and clarify various requirements to better serve our aging population. By soliciting public input, the ACL aims to build a stronger foundation for the national aging network and improve the implementation of OAA services, ultimately leading to a brighter future for our elders.

To view proposed updates, visit www.acl.gov/OAArule . To submit input, visit www.regulations.gov and click the blue "comment" button on the left.

The Older Americans Act has played a vital role in promoting the well-being of senior citizens since its inception in 1965. Over the years, the landscape of aging in America has evolved significantly, presenting new challenges and opportunities. The proposed rule aims to adapt to these changing dynamics and ensure our elders receive the utmost support.

One of the primary objectives of this update is to better support the national aging network that delivers OAA services. The proposed rule seeks to create a more efficient and effective system by clarifying requirements and streamlining processes. This enhancement will strengthen the network's ability to meet the needs of older adults' needs and foster collaboration between agencies and organizations involved in providing these vital services.

Furthermore, the proposed updates aim to enhance program implementation. By incorporating the latest knowledge and best practices, the ACL can ensure that OAA programs align with the current understanding of aging-related challenges. This will result in more targeted and impactful interventions catering to the diverse needs of seniors nationwide.

The ultimate goal of these proposed updates is to improve the overall quality of life for older adults. By considering the valuable input from the public and stakeholders, the ACL can create a more comprehensive and inclusive framework. This approach ensures that seniors have access to a wide range of services, such as nutrition programs, health services, community support, and assistance for caregivers.

It is crucial for all stakeholders, including individuals, families, caregivers, and service providers, to participate in the feedback process actively. By sharing their perspectives and experiences, they can help shape a more compassionate and responsive system that truly reflects the needs of our elder community.

The August 15, 2023, deadline for public comments underscores the urgency of this matter. The sooner the public provides their feedback, the sooner we can implement these vital updates and start making a difference in the lives of our elders. It is an opportunity for all of us to create a brighter future for older Americans.

Keynote Speakers Announced for 2023 REACH Conference

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 16:47:09 GMT

October 4-5, 2023 | Longview, TX

We are thrilled to announce the lineup of keynote speakers for the upcoming Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare (REACH) Conference, held on October 4-5. These esteemed speakers are experts in their respective fields and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with our attendees.

Dr. Carl V. Hill

Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Alzheimer's Association

Dr. Carl V. Hill is a prominent figure in the Alzheimer's Association, where he serves as the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. He is committed to strengthening the Association's outreach to all populations and providing communities with the necessary resources and support to address the Alzheimer's crisis. Dr. Hill is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in dementia science and has authored editorials highlighting the need for representative perspectives to tackle disparities. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan School of Public Health and a master's degree in public health from Morehouse School of Medicine.

Dr. Tam Cummings

Founder, Educator, and Empowerment Expert for Dementia Caregivers

Dr. Tam Cummings, the founder of a reputable gerontology practice in the Texas Hill Country, established her company with a mission to inspire, educate, and empower dementia caregivers. Recognized as a leading educator in dementia care in Texas and nationally, Dr. Cummings brings her expertise and passion to the conference. Her insights into program design for dementia care are invaluable for anyone involved in caregiving for individuals with dementia.

Garrett Davis

Performer, Health Advocate, and Alzheimer's Awareness Champion

Garrett Davis is a multi-talented performer and health advocate whose journey is driven by a unique combination of performing arts and public health. As the CEO/Founder of Gdavis Productions and Films, Garrett has been a driving force behind the "Forget Me Not Project," an urban stage play that raises awareness about Alzheimer's disease. His dedication to advocacy earned him the title of Alzheimer's Association Advocate of the Year in 2012. Through his impactful work, Garrett has been instrumental in reducing disparities in care and improving health outcomes, particularly for underserved populations.

Dr. Timothy McNeil

Founding Pastor, Inspirational Facilitator, and Business Leader

Dr. Timothy McNeil is the founding pastor of the Community Fellowship Church and an accomplished figure in the conference and seminar circuit. With a background in Mass Communications, Business Administration, and Business Intelligence, Dr. McNeil's platform is dedicated to uplifting, empowering, and inspiring as many people as possible. His insights and experiences are sure to ignite motivation among our conference attendees.

Luanne Harms, LSCW

Certified Independent Trainer and Dementia Care Specialist

Luanne Harms is a passionate advocate for changing the culture of dementia care. As a Teepa Snow Positive Approach to Care Certified Independent Trainer, Consultant, and Engagement Leader, she brings a comprehensive understanding of dementia care to the table. With multiple certifications in the field, including Dementia Caregiver Specialist and Texas Oasis Dementia Trainer, Luanne plays a crucial role in training various healthcare professionals, caregivers, and community members.

We are honored to have these remarkable individuals as keynote speakers at the REACH Conference. Their expertise, dedication, and passion for aging, caregiving, and healthcare will undoubtedly make this event a transformative experience for all attendees. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best in the field. Register now for the REACH Conference on October 4-5 and be a part of this enriching journey by visiting www.aaa-reachconference.org .

32nd Annual REACH Conference Registration is Now Open

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 13:23:44 GMT

We are excited to announce the opening of registration for the highly anticipated REACH Conference on October 4-5, 2023 , at the Maude Convention Center in Longview. This collaborative event is designed to bring together professionals like you who work with older adults, their caregivers, and their families for a unique and enriching experience.

At REACH, we have curated a diverse program that covers a wide range of topics relevant to the industry, ensuring inclusivity and catering to your specific interests. The conference will feature educational workshops, thought-provoking plenary sessions, and valuable networking opportunities to provide you with the latest developments and advancements in the field.

One of the event's highlights will be the distinguished keynote speakers sharing their expertise and insights. We are excited to welcome Tam Cummings, Ph.D., a renowned dementia expert, Carl V. Hill, Ph.D., MPH from the Alzheimer's Association, and the award-winning playwright Garrett Davis. Their captivating presentations are sure to inspire and inform.

Moreover, attending the REACH conference offers an excellent opportunity to earn continuing education credits (CEs) in ethics, social work, License Professional Counselors, Activity Directors, and Long Term Care Administrators.

We promise an exciting and informative event that blends valuable education with enjoyable experiences. You'll have ample opportunities to connect with industry professionals, share knowledge, gain new perspectives, and forge meaningful relationships.

We look forward to welcoming you to the REACH conference and creating an unforgettable experience. Take advantage of this exciting opportunity to be a part of something exceptional. Register now and join us in Longview!

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2023

Tue, 30 May 2023 14:00:27 GMT

Every year on June 15th, people worldwide come together to observe World Elder Abuse Day. This important occasion serves as a reminder of the need to address the alarming issue of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. As our population ages, it is crucial to spotlight this often hidden problem and take action to protect our senior citizens.

Every year an estimated 1 in 10 older Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. And that’s only part of the picture: Experts believe that elder abuse is significantly under-reported, in part because so many of our communities lack the social supports that would make it easier for those who experience abuse to report it. Research suggests that as few as 1 in 14 cases of elder abuse come to the attention of authorities.

World Elder Abuse Day serves as a rallying call to bring attention to the issue of elder abuse and its devastating consequences. Increasing awareness can educate individuals, communities, and professionals about the signs, prevention strategies, and available resources. It encourages open dialogue, encourages reporting, and ensures that seniors receive the support and protection they need.

To combat elder abuse effectively, we must focus on promoting the overall well-being of our seniors. This involves fostering an age-friendly society that values and respects older adults. Key measures include:

Education and Training: Providing comprehensive training to professionals, caregivers, and community members to recognize and respond to elder abuse.
Social Support: Encouraging social connections and reducing isolation among older adults through community programs, senior centers, and volunteer initiatives.
Advocacy and Legislation: Supporting policy changes and legislation that strengthen elder protection laws and ensure the rights of older adults.
Caregiver Support: Offering resources, respite care, and support groups for caregivers, as they play a crucial role in the well-being of older adults.
Financial Literacy: Educating older adults about financial management, scams, and fraud prevention to reduce the risk of financial abuse.

The East Texas Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is eagerly preparing to attend the upcoming "Safeguarding Our Seniors Conference" as part of its commitment to promoting Elder Abuse Awareness Month. This important event will gather professionals, caregivers, and community members to collaborate and address the urgent issue of elder abuse. AAA aims to actively contribute by raising awareness about the various types of abuse, delivering educational sessions on recognizing warning signs, and advocating for the importance of reporting any suspected instances of elder abuse. By participating in conferences like this, AAA strives to empower individuals and communities to safeguard our seniors' well-being in the future. B elow is information regarding the conference and registration.

Tuesday, June 13

8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Wisenbaker Conference Center (800 E. Dawson St. Tyler, TX 75701)

World Elder Abuse Day reminds us of the importance of protecting our seniors and creating a society that values and cherishes their well-being. We can take significant steps towards safeguarding our older population by raising awareness, recognizing the signs of elder abuse, and promoting preventative measures. Let us stand together in the fight against elder abuse, ensuring that every senior can age with dignity, respect, and safety.

Improving Physical Wellness: How Seniors in East Texas Can Take Control During Physical Wellness Month

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 20:18:01 GMT

As an organization dedicated to serving seniors in East Texas, we at the Area Agency on Aging are proud to offer a variety of health and wellness classes to promote physical wellness. During this Physical Wellness Month, we're excited to provide seniors in our community the opportunity to take an active role in their health and fitness.

Our Tai Chi for Arthritis program is one of our most popular classes designed to help seniors manage arthritis pain and improve overall physical function. We're also offering classes on fall prevention, healthy eating, and chronic disease self-management, led by trained instructors who are dedicated to helping seniors take control of their health.

By promoting physical wellness, we believe in helping seniors in East Texas enjoy a happier, healthier life for years to come. We're honored to be a part of this important mission. We encourage seniors in our community to join us in taking steps toward improved physical wellness this April and beyond.

Here are some tips to help seniors in East Texas improve their physical wellness:

Stay active: Regular physical activity is important for maintaining strength, flexibility, and overall physical function. Even simple activities like walking or gardening can make a big difference in physical wellness.
Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can provide the nutrients seniors need to maintain good health and energy levels.
Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining good health, especially as we age.
Get enough sleep: A good night's sleep is important for physical wellness, helping to restore energy and repair the body.
Stay socially connected: Social connections are important for mental and physical wellness. Seniors can stay connected with friends and family, join social clubs or groups, or participate in community events.
Manage stress: Chronic stress can have negative effects on physical health. Seniors can take steps to manage stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques or engaging in enjoyable activities.

For more information on AAA's Health and Wellness programs, visit → www.easttexasaaa.org/health-and-wellness

HUD Commemorates National Fair Housing Month 2023

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 15:46:46 GMT

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) kicked off Fair Housing Month 2023, commemorating 55 years since the Fair Housing Act was signed into law. This year’s Fair Housing Month theme, Choices for All Voices: Building an Equitable Future, underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to advancing equity in housing, combating discrimination in housing, and protecting fair housing rights for all who call America home.

“This April, we commemorate the Fair Housing Act, the landmark civil rights law that guarantees the right to housing of your choice, free from discrimination,” said Secretary Marcia L. Fudge. “Though it has been 55 years since the Fair Housing Act was passed, we are still working tirelessly to fight housing discrimination. Today, we recommit to our mission to provide equality and opportunity to every person who calls America home, regardless of their race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or gender identity), disability, or familial status.”

"On the 55th anniversary of the signing of the Fair Housing Act, we reflect on the efforts HUD has made to deliver on the promise of the Act,” said Demetria L. McCain, Principal Deputy Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “This month and every month, HUD is taking meaningful action to end housing discrimination and segregation while helping to ensure true housing choice. We are committed to eliminating discrimination and disparities in housing in every American community.”

Each April, HUD, local communities, fair housing advocates, and fair housing organizations across the country recognize Fair Housing Month by hosting events that underscore the impact and significance of the Fair Housing Act. Throughout the month, HUD and its partners will host activities that enhance public awareness of fair housing rights, highlight fair housing enforcement efforts, and emphasize the importance of creating diverse and inclusive communities.

Secretary Fudge will commemorate Fair Housing Month with an Opening Ceremony on April 11th at 1:00 P.M. (EDT) that will also feature HUD’s Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, Demetria McCain and Lee “the Mother of Fair Housing” Porter, and the Texas Southern University Debate Team. The event will showcase HUD’s efforts to advance and protect fair housing rights to ensure that all people have the right to obtain the housing of their choice, free from discrimination. Register to attend the Fair Housing Month Opening Ceremony here . There is no cost to register.

HUD will close Fair Housing Month with a national activity, Building an Equitable Future: A Housing Policy Conversation with Gen Z College Students. On April 26 at 2:00 P.M. (EDT), HUD will host a virtual conversation with Gen Z college students and young adults on the importance of advancing fair housing protections for the next generation of housing consumers. Register to attend this free virtual event here .

In fiscal year 2022, HUD and its Fair Housing Assistance Program partner agencies received more than 11,000 complaints alleging discrimination based on one or more of the Fair Housing Act's seven protected classes: race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), disability, and familial status.

For a complete listing of HUD Fair Housing Month events and activities, visit: https://www.hud.gov/FHM . Follow the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity on Twitter and Facebook for additional news and updates.

People who believe they have experienced discrimination may file a complaint by contacting HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity at (800) 669-9777 (voice) or (800) 877-8339 (Relay). Housing discrimination complaints may also be filed by going to hud.gov/fairhousing .

Save the Date for the 32nd Annual REACH Conference

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 15:27:38 GMT

October 4-5, 2023 | Longview, TX

We are thrilled to announce the upcoming REACH conference on October 4-5, 2023, at the Maude Convention Center in Longview. We cordially invite you to join us for this collaborative effort to offer educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities for attendees.

At REACH, we have ensured that the program is inclusive and addresses a wide range of topics that may be of interest to anyone who works with older adults, their caregivers, or their families. The conference brings together local, regional, and state service providers and educators to provide you with the latest developments and advancements in the industry.

The REACH conference is an excellent opportunity for you to obtain Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) for ethics, social work, License Professional Counselors, Activity Directors, and Long Term Care Administrators.

Keynote speakers are

Tam Cummings, Ph.D. - Dementia expert
Carl V. Hill, Ph.D., MPH - Alzheimer's Association
Garrett Davis - Award-winning playwright

We promise to make it an exciting and informative event. There will be plenty of opportunities to network, share knowledge, and gain new perspectives.

Please save the date, and we would be honored to have you join us and be a part of this exciting event. We will send out more information as the conference draws near. We look forward to seeing you at the REACH conference!

For more information, visit the REACH website at → www.aaa-reachconference.org

Area Agency on Aging to Host Four Community Events Celebrating Older Americans Month in 2023

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 14:11:44 GMT

Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) is joining organizations across the nation to celebrate the seniors in our communities for Older Americans Month (OAM). The AAA will host four celebration events across East Texas at area senior centers and community centers focusing on aging unbound – how communities can combat stereotypes and explore diverse aging experiences.

OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, Aging Unbound , offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of aging experiences and to promote the importance of enjoying independence and fulfillment by paving our own paths as we age.

The following OAM celebration events are open to the public and will include food, fun, door prizes, and information on services available to East Texas seniors:

May 4 ^th at the Green Street Recreation Center, located at 814 S. Green St. in Longview, from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
May10 ^th at the Emory Senior Center, located at 179 Doris Briggs Pkwy in Emory, from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
May 16 ^th at the Douglass Alumni High School, located at 408 Terry Street in Pittsburg, from
9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
May 30 ^th at the Winkler Place Assisted Living, located at 513 N. Adams St in Carthage, from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Fraud Alert: Scammers Steal Money From the Public Through Fake HHS Websites and Social Media Schemes

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 20:32:50 GMT

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Inspector General (OIG) is alerting the public to a fraud scheme that uses social media and fake websites to steal money from individuals by offering fake HHS grants.

The scheme involves scammers pretending to offer you grants from HHS and asking for payment or personal information to receive the fake grants. Scammers may use various social media platforms and chat applications to contact you and direct you to fake websites, online chats, chat boxes, or live customer support in order to lure you into providing your personal or financial information. These scammers may pretend to be a “friend” or someone from HHS. Although the precise message may vary, the scammer provides fake HHS employee information or a link to a fake HHS website, tells you that you will receive free Government grant money, and then asks you for money or personal information.

Do not pay scammers. HHS will never ask you to pay money to receive a grant. Scammers may ask you to send gift cards or money to cover processing and/or delivery fees. Do not respond to, pay, or share any financial information with anyone contacting you via social media, email, or otherwise offering free HHS grants or money.

Do not share your personal information. HHS will not message you through social media to begin a grant application. Scammers may offer fake HHS grant money in exchange for personal or financial information, such as your Social Security number, date of birth, address, bank account number, login information, or copies of your personal identification.

Do not be fooled by spoof websites . HHS websites always use a .gov domain. HHS does not use .org, .com, or .us domains.

Report grant scams. Never respond to any schemes that try to get you to pay money or give your personal information for an HHS grant. If you receive such a call or message, submit a hotline complaint or call 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477; TTY 1-800-377-4950).

Social Security and OIG Hold Annual Slam the Scam Day

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 15:00:20 GMT

The Social Security Administration and its Office of the Inspector General (OIG) continue to raise public awareness about Social Security imposter scams during the fourth annual “Slam the Scam” Day on March 9. Social Security scams — where fraudsters pressure victims into making cash or gift card payments to fix alleged Social Security number problems or to avoid arrest – are an ongoing government imposter fraud scheme. For several years, Social Security impersonation scams have been one of the most common government imposter scams reported to the Federal Trade Commission. Social Security has made concerted efforts to address this issue, through extensive outreach and investigative initiatives. These efforts have made a significant impact, reducing money reported lost to Social Security scams by 30 percent from 2021 to 2022.

“I am proud of the work we have done to combat Social Security imposter scams and raise public awareness,” said Kilolo Kijakazi, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. “We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to protect the public and their critical benefits. We urge Americans to remain vigilant, do not give out personal information or money, and report any scam attempts.”

Scammers use sophisticated tactics to trick potential victims into disclosing personal and financial information. Typically, they use these P’s – Pretend, Prize or Problem, Pressure, and Payment. For example, scammers pretend they are from Social Security in phone calls or emails and claim there is a problem with the person’s Social Security number. The scammer’s caller ID may be spoofed to look like a legitimate government number. Scammers may also send fake documents to pressure people into complying with demands for information or money. Other common tactics include citing “badge numbers” and using fraudulent Social Security letterhead to target individuals for payment or personal information.

Social Security will never tell you that your Social Security number is suspended; contact you to demand an immediate payment; threaten you with arrest; ask for your credit or debit card numbers over the phone; request gift cards or cash; or promise a Social Security benefit approval or increase in exchange for information or money.

Social Security employees do contact the public by telephone for business purposes. Ordinarily, the agency calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit, are already receiving payments and require an update to their record, or have requested a phone call from the agency. If there is a problem with a person’s Social Security number or record, Social Security will typically mail a letter.

“Working with our law enforcement and private sector partners to inform consumers about scammers and their deceptive practices remains a priority for my office. We will continue promoting National Slam the Scam Day to help protect consumers from these predators. Slamming the scam begins with consumers quickly taking a step to hang up the phone, or delete suspicious texts and emails, without responding to the scammers,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration. “That remains the easiest and most effective method to avoid falling prey to these vicious scams.”

Benefits Counselors Taking Calls for 2023 Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 16:57:49 GMT

Did you know that if you’re unhappy with your Medicare Advantage Plan (Medicare Part C), you have options? Each year, there’s a Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 – March 31. During this time, if you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan and want to change your health plan, you can do one of these:

Switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan with or without drug coverage
Go back to Original Medicare and, if needed, also join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan

If you switch Medicare Advantage Plans or go back to Original Medicare with or without a Medicare drug plan, your new coverage will start the first day of the month after your new plan gets your request for coverage. Keep in mind, if you go back to Original Medicare now, you may not be able to buy a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy .

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period isn’t for people who already have Original Medicare.

It’s important to understand and be confident in your Medicare coverage choices. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan and want to change your plan, check out your options today. Remember, this Medicare Advantage Plan Open Enrollment Period ends March 31.

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas can help you find, compare, and enroll in a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare Drug Plan in your area. Give us a call at 1-800-442-8845 or 903-218-6500.

Notice to File for Candidacy for the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 22:06:36 GMT

Notice to Eligible Voters of the

East Texas Area Agency on Aging District

Notice to File for Candidacy

To all eligible voters in the State of Texas, sixty years of age or older prior to the filing date for the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature (TSHL) election and residing in the East Texas Area Agency on Aging region, notice is hereby given that any qualified and interested voter may file for candidacy for membership in the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature.

TSHL members participate in all required and expected activities of the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature at their own expense without compensation. Candidates must file a notice of candidacy with the said Area Agency on Aging during established business hours by February 28, 2023, at:

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas

1501 Pentecost Rd.

Street Address

Kilgore, TX 75662

Due Notice of Election with voting information will be posted on March 14, 2023. Qualified voters of the named Area Agency on Aging may vote by Mail-in Ballots by April 18, 2023, or in person on April 28, 2023.

By direction of the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature’s Elections & Credentials Committee.

Forms

ACL Releases Two New Grant Opportunities for Innovations in Nutrition Programs and Services for Older Adults

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 16:42:46 GMT

Deadline to apply for nutrition grants is January 25, 2023

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released two new Innovations in Nutrition Programs and Services (INNU) funding opportunities that counties are eligible for to establish innovative approaches to enhance the quality and effectiveness of nutrition programs and services within the aging services system. The application for the below INNU grants is due January 25, 2023 .

The first INNU program provides funding to replicate successful INNU grants in senior nutrition programs that have shown positive participant impacts. The announcement includes three replication model toolkits, which describe each project and provide resources for replication. This grant offers up to $150,000 per year over a 36-month period.

Learn more about past INNU projects here .

The second INNU program focuses on research and will accept proposals to create partnerships between universities or other research organizations in collaboration with aging services organizations to demonstrate whether innovative Senior Nutrition Program interventions impact nutrition, socialization and/or health and well-being outcomes. Applicants are responsible for implementing and evaluating an intervention. This grant offers up to $600,000 per year over a 60-month period.

Learn more about past INNU research projects here .

Area Agency on Aging to Assist with Benefits Counseling for Medicare Beneficiaries Through Open Enrollment

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 17:42:46 GMT

People with Medicare have more choices and options for their Medicare coverage in 2023. Plan costs and covered benefits have changed, so the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) encourages people with Medicare to look at their coverage choices and decide the options that best fits their health needs. Open Enrollment for 2023 Medicare health and drug plans begin on October 15, 2022, and ends December 7, 2022, giving individuals a chance to modify their plans.

The changes Medicare recipients can make during Open Enrollment include

Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan
Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan
Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan)

Beneficiaries should always shop for a new drug plan, and Medicare Advantage plan each year to ensure they are getting the best coverage for the best price to suit their needs. Plans can be viewed and compared at www.medicare.gov.

“I often hear people say, ‘I’m really happy with my current Medicare prescription plan so I don’t need to call a Benefits Counselor or look at making any changes.’ What you might not realize is the price of your current plan can change every year,” said AAA Director Colleen Halliburton. “If you do not go through the plan review process, you may be surprised on January 1st with higher costs, and those costs will be locked in for another year.”

Local Scheduled Presentations

Our Certified Benefits Counselors have an event scheduled for several counties in the 14-county ETCOG region. These counties include Anderson, Henderson, Marion, Rains, and Wood. A list of scheduled presentations with times and locations can be viewed at www.easttexasaaa.org/benefits-counseling . These presentations require an appointment prior to arrival. To reserve your spot, call the Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-442-8845.

Be on alert for these Medicare Open Enrollment scams

Medicare or a health plan calls and wants to send you a new health card for $299.
You receive a call about a refund from last year’s premiums or your drug plan cost.
An agent tries to sign you up for a plan that you don’t need, isn’t right for you, or doesn’t even exist.
Watch out for fake RX cards offering significant discounts with little or no benefits.
You receive a call offering significant discounts on a new health insurance plan.

Tips on how to stop fraud during Open Enrollment

Medicare will never call or visit. Medicare will only send information via postal mail service.
Guard your Medicare card and number like a credit card.
Don’t give out your Medicare number except to your doctor or other providers.
Don’t let someone push you into making a fast decision.
If you receive a call, especially from a number you do not recognize or anyone requesting personal information, hang up immediately.
Know your health care options. Get help from your family, the Medicare website, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
No health care plan is allowed to cold call.

For questions about fraud or to report a scam, please contact the Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-888-341-6187.

31st Annual REACH Conference in Photos

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 19:06:47 GMT

Over 300 attendees joined REACH31!

This October, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas hosted the Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare (REACH) Conference for the 31st year for local healthcare providers to learn skills, tools, and techniques used in facilities and communities.

REACH31 saw over 300 attendees and exhibitors for the first in-person conference since October 2019.

Speakers addressed leadership, diversity, safety, and more. CEUs include ethics, social work, Licensed Professional Counselors, Activity Directors, and Long-Term Care Administrators.

We look forward to another great conference in 2023! Stay tuned for information coming on next year's conference dates and location.

Social Security Announces 8.7 Percent Benefit Increase for 2023

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 19:17:33 GMT

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.

The 8.7 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits payable to more than 65 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2023. Increased payments to more than 7 million SSI beneficiaries will begin on December 30, 2022. (Note: some people receive both Social Security and SSI benefits). The Social Security Act ties the annual COLA to the increase in the Consumer Price Index as determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“Medicare premiums are going down and Social Security benefits are going up in 2023, which will give seniors more peace of mind and breathing room. This year’s substantial Social Security cost-of-living adjustment is the first time in over a decade that Medicare premiums are not rising and shows that we can provide more support to older Americans who count on the benefits they have earned,” Acting Commissioner Kilolo Kijakazi said.

To view a COLA message from Acting Commissioner Kijakazi, click here. Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $160,200 from $147,000.

Social Security and SSI beneficiaries are normally notified by mail starting in early December about their new benefit amount. The fastest way to find out their new benefit amount is to access their personal my Social Security account to view the COLA notice online. It’s secure, easy, and people find out before the mail arrives. People can also opt to receive a text or email alert when there is a new message from Social Security--such as their COLA notice--waiting for them, rather than receiving a letter in the mail. People may create or access their my Social Security account online at www.ssa.gov/myaccoun t.

Information about Medicare changes for 2023 is available at www.medicare.gov . For Social Security beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare, their new higher 2023 benefit amount will be available in December through the mailed COLA notice and my Social Security's Message Center.

The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calculated. To read more, please visit www.ssa.gov/cola .

Area Agency on Aging to host 31st Annual REACH Conference to Educate Individuals Who Work with Seniors

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 18:29:27 GMT

October 5-6, 2022 | Longview, TX

More than one hundred area nursing facility administrators, practitioners, caregivers, and others who work with seniors will receive training at the 31st annual REACH Conference (Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare) next week. The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) hosts the annual conference to provide educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities. This year's conference will be held at Maude Cobb in Longview on October 5-6 and is ideal for professionals or caregivers serving older adults and persons with disabilities.

"We are thrilled to be approaching our 31st annual REACH Conference. Caring for our elders can be challenging, especially when we don't know what to do. At the AAA, we want to help all generations of caregivers through their challenges so they may also experience the sweet gifts of serving their loved ones. The work these professionals do daily in their communities serving and protecting East Texas seniors is immensely important. The Aging Network must work together to safeguard the well-being and health of our seniors seeking help," said AAA Director Colleen Halliburton.

Special keynote presentations include:

What part does truth play in business as usual/unusual?
Bonnie Estes, private practice therapist
Who decides what the truth is for your client? How does the client's welfare hold up when your client's perception of truth differs from yours? Questions involving the ethics of caregiving will be examined through codes of ethic samples and situational experiences.

And so it begins...
AAA Staff and REACH planning committee members

You need help with an order for a commitment - How does this work?
"I"ll Just Call APS!"
Navigating Care: Can we take care of my loved one at home? Provider Services; Nursing Facilities; Assisted Living Facilities; Medicare/Medicaid or Payor Source; Home Health; Hospice. Help…What and Where to get help through all stages of declining health for your loved one?

The top 10 reasons to live in sin
John Ross IV - senior partner of Ross & Shoalmire, LLP Elder Law Firm
Published at the University of Texas by Mr. Ross, let's hear the top 10 REASONS why seniors should not get remarried later in life.

Making magic: Strategies for creativity and innovation from Disney-Pixar
Scott Abel, author and public speaker
As change and disruption continue to be the new normal, what worked yesterday will not work today. Now more than ever, organizations must create a culture where creativity and innovation can thrive - or face becoming irrelevant. This session will highlight specific Disney and Pixar practices that have enabled them to move far beyond simple adaption and into the realm of creating magic at work.

This conference provides an opportunity to obtain Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) for ethics, social work, Licensed Professional Counselors, Activity Directors, and Long-Term Care Administrators. REACH is partially funded by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. To register for the event or for more information, call the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas at (903) 218-6500 or visit our conference website at www.aaa-reachconference.org .

Get Connected at Your Senior Center in September

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 17:40:18 GMT

This September, the National Council on Aging (NCOA) is celebrating National Senior Center Month by showcasing how these vital community hubs connect older adults to each other and to valuable services to stay healthy and independent.

The nation’s 10,000 senior centers are one of the most widely used services among America’s older adults, connecting 1 million individuals each year to programs that improve their health, economic security, engagement, purpose, creativity, mobility, nutrition, and more—all in a social and fun environment. Over the past three years , senior centers also have become integral to health care delivery by providing COVID-19 guidance, vaccine education, and vaccinations to participants.

“Every day, senior centers bring our grandparents, parents, older neighbors, and friends together to build community and share trusted services and information to help all age well,” said Dianne Stone , NCOA’s Associate Director of Network Development and Engagement. “Research shows that compared with their peers, people who attend senior centers have higher levels of health, social interaction, and life satisfaction.”

The theme for this year’s National Senior Center Month is Strengthening Community Connections. Centers across the country will be hosting special events, programs, and celebrations throughout September to raise awareness about the services they offer.

NCOA’s National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC) sponsors National Senior Center Month every September. With the support of the U.S. Administration for Community Living through the Modernizing Senior Centers Resource Center , NISC is setting the standard for the future of senior centers by promoting research, promising practices, professional development, and advocacy.

“There’s never been a better time to come home to your senior center,” Stone said. “Come see everything your local center has to offer.”

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2022

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 13:40:30 GMT

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on June 15 raises awareness of the cultural, social, economic, and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect. This is more important than ever as cases of elder abuse have increased significantly during the pandemic. Abuser tactics—isolation, manipulation, and systemic barriers (such as ageism and racism)—put older adults at greater risk for harm.

Elder abuse is widespread. Every year an estimated 1 in 10 older Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. And that’s only part of the picture: Experts believe that elder abuse is significantly under-reported, in part because so many of our communities lack the social supports that would make it easier for those who experience abuse to report it. Research suggests that as few as 1 in 14 cases of elder abuse come to the attention of authorities.

One common tactic scammers use is to pose as Social Security employees. They may claim the older person’s Social Security number is linked to a crime. Feeling isolated and frightened, the scammers get the older person to provide them money or vital personal information that they then can use to exploit them financially. Social Security offers guidance and reporting assistance to help prevent this form of elder abuse. If you or someone you know is a target of one of these scams, we encourage you to report it on the Social Security’s Office of the Inspector General website.

WEAAD serves as a call-to-action for individuals, organizations, and communities. We can fight the neglect and exploitation of our elder citizens in a number of ways, such as:

We can design and equip community centers to work as intergenerational spaces that allow older people to build relationships and participate in the work, play, and life of our neighborhoods.
We can think about the role of transportation in reducing social isolation and adjust systems so that we can all continue to move throughout our communities as we age.
We can figure out new and better ways to arrange and coordinate the teams, agencies, and programs that work specifically with older people.
We can develop programs to educate families and professionals who work with older adults to understand the importance of preventing isolation, how to spot the warning signs of abuse, and what to do to address abuse or neglect.

By doing all that we can to strengthen the social support structure, we can reduce social isolation, protect communities and families against elder abuse, and build a nation that lives up to our promise of justice for all.

Area Agency on Aging to Host Five Community Events Celebrating Older Americans Month

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 15:14:52 GMT

Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) is joining organizations across the nation to celebrate the seniors in our communities for Older Americans Month (OAM). The AAA will host five celebration events across East Texas at area senior centers and community centers 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.

OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year's theme focuses on empowering older adults on how planning, participation, accessibility, and making connections all play a role in aging in place – emphasizing that what each person needs and prefers is unique.

"Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more. Just as every person is unique, so too is how they age and how they choose to do it – and there is no 'right' way. That's why the theme for Older Americans Month 2022 is Age My Way. We hope you join us at one of our community events. Come learn how you can engage with friends, family, and through community activities to enrich your health and well-being!" said ETCOG's Director of the AAA, Colleen Halliburton.

The following OAM celebration events are open to the public and will include food, fun, door prizes, and information on services available to East Texas seniors:

May 13th at the Gilmer Area Senior Center, located at 206 Silver Alley in Gilmer, at 12:00 PM
May 19th at the Tyler Senior Center, located at 1915 Garden Valley Road in Tyler, from 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM
May 20th at the Henderson Community Center, located at 302 Fair Park Avenue in Henderson, from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
May 24th at the Henderson County Senior Center, located at 3344 State Hwy. 31 E. in Athens, from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
· May 24th at the Gregg County Extension Office, located at 405 East Marshall Avenue in Longview, from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

ETCOG Welcomes Colleen Halliburton to Oversee Area Agency on Aging Senior Programs and Services

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 16:08:53 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Colleen Halliburton to its management team as the Director of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA). In this position, Halliburton will oversee developing and maintaining a comprehensive, coordinated human service delivery system for nutrition and support services for seniors in ETCOG's fourteen-county region.

Halliburton brings over 20 years of experience serving seniors in various positions. Prior to accepting this position, Halliburton was Director of the Community Services Division at the South East Texas Regional Planning Commission, which included the Area Agency on Aging, 2-1-1 Area Information Center, the Community Services Block Grant, Lighthouse Weatherization Program, and the Coalition for the Homeless of Southeast Texas. She also currently serves as the President of the Texas Association of Area Agencies on Aging.

"I am excited and pleased to welcome Ms. Halliburton to the ETCOG Team. She brings a wealth of knowledge and real-life experience to the Director position that will allow her to build on the East Texas AAA's current successes! Her passion for serving seniors is both evident and contagious! I look forward to serving alongside her and the entire ETCOG AAA Team!" said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland.

"It is an honor to join the ETCOG team and the outstanding professionals at the East Texas Area Agency on Aging," said Colleen Halliburton. "Caring for our elders can be a challenge, especially when we don't know what to do. At the AAA, we want to help all generations of caregivers through their challenges so they may also experience the sweet gifts of serving their loved ones."

The AAA of East Texas is part of a nationwide network coordinating supportive services for seniors as mandated by the Older Americans Act of 1965 and its subsequent amendments. Its programs are tailored to meet the social, nutritional, educational, and logistical needs of residents aged 60 years and older, caregivers, or individuals receiving Medicare, regardless of age. The AAA serves as the region's leader in advocating and providing a variety of services, such as information and referral, benefits counseling, case management, health education classes, senior nutrition, housing repair, and advocating through the Ombudsman program for people in nursing and assisted living facilities. These services help older individuals live independent, meaningful, and dignified lives in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.

HUD Commemorates National Fair Housing Month 2022

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 18:37:02 GMT

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has kicked off Fair Housing Month 2022. This year’s Fair Housing Month theme, Fair Housing: More Than Just Words, underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment and progress toward advancing equity in housing and securing equal access to housing opportunities for all.

“The Fair Housing Act recognized what generations have known – that where we live impacts nearly every part of our lives,” said Secretary Marcia L. Fudge. “Fair Housing Month is a time to recommit to our mission to promote fairness, inclusion, and justice in housing. This month and every month, we are doing everything in our power to ensure every person has a fair shot at the American dream.”

"Although the Fair Housing Act was passed 54 years ago, we are still fighting against discrimination in housing today,” said Demetria L. McCain, Principal Deputy Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. “This April, HUD is renewing its commitment to end housing discrimination and to ensure every person has equal access to safe, affordable housing.”

Each April, HUD, local communities, fair housing advocates, and fair housing organizations across the country celebrate Fair Housing Month by hosting an array of fair housing activities that highlight fair housing enforcement efforts, enhance public awareness of fair housing rights, and emphasize the importance of creating diverse and inclusive communities.

In 2021, HUD and its Fair Housing Assistance Program partner agencies received more than 8,500 complaints alleging discrimination based on one or more of the Fair Housing Act's seven protected classes: race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), family status, and disability. Last year, the categories with the highest number of complaints were disability and race, respectively. HUD also received complaints alleging lending discrimination and numerous complaints from women who faced sexual harassment.

For a complete listing of HUD Fair Housing Month events and activities, go to: www.hud.gov/FHM2022 .

Benefits Counselors Taking Calls for Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 16:09:51 GMT

Switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan with or without drug coverage
Go back to Original Medicare and, if needed, also join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period isn’t for people who already have Original Medicare.

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas can help you find, compare, and enroll in a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare Drug Plan in your area. Give us a call at 1-800-442-8845 or 903-218-6500.

Area Agency on Aging Selected for National Learning Collaborative

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 18:34:15 GMT

Fifteen Agencies Selected

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas is excited to be one of 15 agencies selected for a national learning collaborative!

We applied and were selected by the Aging and Disability Business Institute at USAging to participate in its 2022 Financial Acumen Learning Collaborative (FALC)—a learning opportunity that will provide aging and disability community-based organizations with the knowledge and skills they need to build and strengthen their financial operations and sustainability for health care contracting.

The AAA and selected agencies will engage in an interactive curriculum that covers a wide array of financial acumen topics and practices such as accurately pricing services, assessing net income using various pricing methods, evaluating and managing financial risk, and calculating the return on investment of a partnership for potential health care partners.

We can't wait to get started and gain knowledge to strengthen our partnerships and services in East Texas!

About the Aging and Disability Business Institute
The Aging and Disability Business Institute (Business Institute) is led by USAging in partnership with the most experienced and respected organizations in the Aging and Disability Networks. Together, we provide community-based organizations (CBOs) with the tools to successfully adapt to a changing health care environment. CBOs can use these resources to enhance their organizational capacity and capitalize on new opportunities to contract with health care entities and diversify their funding.

The overarching vision of the Business Institute is to improve the health and well-being of older adults and people with disabilities through improved access to quality services and evidence-based programs. Access to these programs can help older adults and people with disabilities live with dignity and independence in their homes and communities.

Thanking Long-Term Volunteer, Mr. Willie Stoker, for 26 Years of Delivering Senior Meals

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 15:17:29 GMT

You will be greatly missed!

The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) celebrates a longtime volunteer, Mr. Willie A. Stoker, who is retiring from delivering meals for our meals on wheels program to East Texas residents. Mr. Stoker started delivering meals in 1994 and is known for his dependability, trustworthiness, thoughtfulness, and being on time.

“Mr. Stoker is highly respected by all that have worked with him,” said AAA staff. “His clients love him dearly, and he goes out of his way to get their meals delivered every week. He is like the rural postman. Neither rain, shine, sleet, or snow keeps him from his appointed rounds on Wednesday of every week.”

“Mr. Stoker is a calm and understanding man,” said Robert Dunn. “He was my first babysitter, and he handled us with firm but fun discipline. A valuable friend of mine.”

Mr. Stoker’s most recent route is Harrison County, where he delivers meals to 21 residents. While retiring has always been on his mind, he would change his mind. He would tell the meal-site manager, Mrs. Bonnie, “I don’t think the Lord is ready for me to retire. This keeps me going, and I love doing it, so I am going to keep on delivering meals for a little while longer.” She said he is welcome back anytime.

Born in Harleton, Mr. Stoker grew up in East Texas and graduated from H.B. Pemberton High School in Marshall in 1961.

During his life, he worked various jobs and retired from the Darco Company in 1994. In his personal life, he serves as a Deacon in his church. Mr. Stoker has been married for 58 years, is a father, grandfather, great grandfather, and great-great-grandfather.

“I had the opportunity to work with Mr. Stoker, and he is an awesome man with stories that you wanted to believe,” said Linda Calip. “I wish him the best. God bless you.”

The AAA wants to commend and personally thank Mr. Stoker for being a dedicated volunteer for meals on wheels for over 26 years. He will be greatly missed.

Certified Benefits Counselors Available to Assist You With Medicare Open Enrollment

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 18:41:55 GMT

People with Medicare have more choices and options for their Medicare coverage in 2022 with historically low premiums. Plan costs and covered benefits have changed, so the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) encourages people with Medicare to look at their coverage choices and decide the options that best fit their health needs. Open Enrollment for 2021 Medicare health and drug plans begins on October 15, 2021, and ends December 7, 2021, giving individuals a chance to modify their plans.

The changes Medicare recipients can make during Open Enrollment include:

Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan
Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan
Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan)

"Medicare Open Enrollment provides beneficiaries a chance to compare plans whether it be standalone prescription plans or Medicare Advantage Plans. There are many things to consider when comparing plans such as premiums, deductibles, co-pays, gaps in coverage, preferred pharmacies, and convenience. The Benefits Counselors are non-biased, certified advocates that can assist beneficiaries through this process and help them make changes if they decide too," said Juanita Beason, Lead Benefits Counselor.

The AAA is also known as the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and is available to compare your current coverage with available options and assist you with enrollment at no cost. Speak to a qualified Benefits Counselor by calling 1-800-442-8845. You may set up an appointment and be advised over the phone or by virtual meeting.

Be on alert for these Medicare Open Enrollment scams:

Medicare or a health plan calls and wants to send you a new health card for $299.
You receive a call about a refund from last year’s premiums or your drug plan cost.
An agent tries to sign you up for a plan that you don’t need, isn’t right for you, or doesn’t even exist.
Watch out for fake RX cards offering significant discounts with little or no benefits.
You receive a call offering significant discounts on a new health insurance plan.

Tips on how to stop fraud during Open Enrollment:

Medicare will never call or visit. Medicare will only send information via postal mail service.
Guard your Medicare card and number like a credit card.
Don’t give out your Medicare number except to your doctor or other providers.
Don’t let someone push you into making a fast decision.
If you receive a call, especially from a number you do not recognize or anyone requesting personal information, hang up immediately.
Know your health care options. Get help from your family, the Medicare website, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
No health care plan is allowed to cold call.

For questions about fraud or to report a scam, please contact the Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-888-341-6187.

Next Week's 30th Annual REACH Conference Will Educate Individuals Who Work with Seniors

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 18:15:24 GMT

Join Us for the Virtual Conference on October 6-7

Area nursing facility administrators, practitioners, caregivers, and others who work with seniors will receive training at the 30th annual REACH Conference (Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare) next week. The conference is hosted each year by the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) to provide educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities. This year's conference, themed Refresh, Renew, Refocus, will be held virtually on October 6-7 and is ideal for professionals, caregivers, social workers, case managers, individuals serving older adults and persons with disabilities, and anyone interested in aging issues.

"We are excited to bring to you this year's REACH conference celebrating over 30 years of exceptional training and learning opportunities provided to caregivers, administrators, and professionals serving seniors throughout East Texas. We have dynamic keynote speakers addressing communication, senior relationships regarding finance and self-care. Our closing keynote panel (physicians and community leaders) will be facilitated by our ETCOG Executive Director, David Cleveland, on how to Refresh, Renew, and Refocus while living in a pandemic as well as moving forward. REACH 30: Refresh, Renew, and Refocus provides an excellent opportunity to learn and continue serving seniors," said Bettye Mitchell, Director of the Area Agency on Aging. "We are thankful to our partners, speakers, and to the Aging Committee for their zeal in presenting this conference."

Special keynote presentations include:

Colors of Communication: Communication Styles Every Team Needs to Know

Scott Abel, Leadership and Innovation Manager with Texas Health and Human Services Commission – This fun, engaging presentation will enable participants to identify their innate communication style and practical tools to help modify their message when working with people who communicate differently.

Trainer Insights for Growth

Michael Curtis, Leadership Consultant and Trainer at iLead Consulting & Training – The Leadership Challenge books and workshops have helped leaders improve leadership practice for over 30 years. Join me as we learn more about the art of leadership and gain practical ideas for unleashing the leader in you.

Cybersecurity: Prevent A Breach

Mark Seguin, Trainer/Owner of TBG Solutions, Inc. – Become proactive, not reactive, for data security and prevent a breach! Learn ways to avoid data breaches and identity theft.

The Top 10 Reasons to Live in Sin

John Ross, IV, Partner with Ross & Shoalmire, PLLC – Let's "Refocus" our thoughts and hear the most recent published paper for the University of Texas by John Ross on the Top 10 Reasons why SENIORS should not get remarried later in Life…

Mask on First: Self Care for the Caregiver

Bobbie Burks, Board Certified Professional Christian Counselor – How do you give when you have nothing left? That is the situation many caregivers - personal and professional - find themselves in each day as they provide essential services to people who can no longer care for themselves. This presentation will deal with caregiver burnout and how to refresh with changes across the lifestyle spectrum.

Refresh, Renew, Refocus – Moving Past a Pandemic Environment

Panelists ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland, Reverend Ralph Caraway, and Paul McGaha, D.O. – The panelist will discuss current scientific evidence, best practices, and expert opinions to help individuals adjust and move on while living in a pandemic environment.

This conference provides an opportunity to obtain Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) for ethics, social work, Licensed Professional Counselors, Activity Directors, and Long-Term Care Administrators. REACH is partially funded by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. To register for the event or more information, call the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas at (903) 218-6500 or visit our conference website at www.aaa-reachconference.org .

ETCOG Introduces New Public Engagement Website

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 19:02:15 GMT

We Want Your Feedback!

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) announces the launching of www.LetsTalkETCOG.org , an engagement website devoted as a space for our members and East Texas residents to share ideas, discuss important topics, and provide feedback on our programs, services, regional planning, and contributions to the region. ETCOG is the program administrator of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas.

This online platform offers various interactive tools, including discussion forums, polls, surveys, and crowdsource mapping. Use Let's Talk ETCOG to contribute your ideas and ask questions about featured projects such as:

Aging in East Texas
Economic Development
Enhancing the Environment
Regional Transportation
Safety in East Texas
Workforce Development
Regional Grants
East Texas Broadband Initiative
ETCOG Board and Executive Committee Decisions

"Public engagement usually involves attending a public meeting or providing a letter to ETCOG. To enhance in-person engagement efforts, we've launched Let's Talk ETCOG to help reach a broader audience for those who may not have the chance to participate in person, gather more member feedback, and offer the community a new way to provide input on projects," said ETCOG's Director of Communications, Lindsay Vanderbilt.

To engage on Let's Talk ETCOG, visit the website to submit input using the online options relevant to each of the projects currently open for discussion. To provide feedback, participants must create a login and be signed in. All input and ideas are compiled and sent to the relevant project manager to make recommendations.

Area Agency on Aging to Host 30th Annual REACH Conference

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 14:33:11 GMT

Join Us Virtually on October 6-7, 2021

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) invites nursing and assisted living facility administrators, practitioners, caregivers, and others who work with seniors to receive training at the 30th annual REACH Conference (Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare). Each year, the AAA hosts the conference to provide educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities for professionals, caregivers, social workers, case managers, individuals serving older adults and persons with disabilities, and anyone interested in aging issues.

As a safety precaution, the conference has transitioned into a two-day virtual event. This year's theme, “REACH 30: Refresh, Renew, Refocus," is focused on bringing an interactive participant conference within a virtual environment. This virtual conference features invigorating and inspirational distinguished speakers, panel discussions, and various networking opportunities with the interactive social lounge for both sponsors and attendees.

"We are excited to bring to you this year's REACH conference celebrating over 30 years of exceptional training and learning opportunities provided to caregivers, administrators, and professionals serving seniors throughout East Texas. We have dynamic keynote speakers addressing communication, senior relationships regarding finance and self-care, and a closing keynote panel (physicians and community leaders) facilitated by our ETCOG Executive Director, David Cleveland, on how to Refresh, Renew, and Refocus while living in a pandemic as well as moving forward. REACH 30: Refresh, Renew, and Refocus provides an excellent opportunity to learn and continue serving seniors," said Bettye Mitchell, Director of the Area Agency on Aging. "We are thankful to our partners, speakers, and to the Aging Committee for their zeal in presenting this conference."

This conference provides an opportunity to obtain Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) for ethics, social work, Licensed Professional Counselors, Activity Directors, and Long-Term Care Administrators.

The conference registration fee is $100. Find out more and register to attend the conference at www.aaa-reachconference.org .

AAA Director Awarded National Violence Prevention Award

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 14:41:05 GMT

Congratulations, Bettye Mitchell, Director of the Area Agency on Aging

The East Texas Council of Governments is pleased to announce the National Partnership to End Interpersonal Violence (NPEIV) has selected our Director of the Area Agency on Aging, Bettye Mitchell, to receive the Paul Fink Interpersonal Violence Prevention Award.

Each year, the NPEIV seeks to honor and recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to our understanding of how multiple forms of violence are related and the importance of addressing them through developing and implementing an integrated violence prevention approach. Bettye is recognized as one of those who influence positive change in the field of interpersonal violence prevention.

This award was named to honor the work of the late Paul Fink, a longtime Clinical Psychiatry News Columnist, and Editorial Adviser, and a key leader in the field of psychiatry, working to prevent child abuse and trauma.

"Bettye has done an outstanding job leading our Aging team since her arrival here at ETCOG. She selflessly gives her time to the aging community and continues her advocacy as a voice for seniors in our area. I am glad to see NPEIV agrees with what we have known for quite some time: Bettye is one of the very best leaders in the entire nation. We are blessed to have her here in East Texas!" said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland.

Bettye has championed the plight of vulnerable communities for over 40 years throughout her career and personal advocacy efforts. She began her career with the Texas Department of Human Services, transferring to one of the first Adult Protective Services units in the early 1980s and becoming the Regional Director of the Austin Region. Bettye also served as Deputy Commissioner for Long Term Care for the Department of Human Services.

Bettye joined ETCOG in April 2012 and has continued to find ways to improve the lives of persons growing older and with disabilities.

Older Americans - Sharing the Stories of East Texans

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 19:47:54 GMT

Dr. Otis and Dr. Bennie Webster - Smith County

As part of the Area Agency of East Texas’ mission to represent and serve the senior population, Dr. Otis and Dr. Bennie Webster of Smith County were gracious enough to share their life story with us.

Dr. Otis and Dr. Bennie met at a young age and were smitten with each other ever since.

“I’ve been with him so long, I’ve probably been shaped by him in some of the things I do in life,” said Dr. Bennie.

Dr. Bennie received her Bachelor of Arts degree and teaching certification in 1974 from Texas A&M University in Commerce. She went on to earn her Master of Education with a certification in Special Education from Texas A&M Commerce in 1995. Furthering her degree, she received her Doctorate in 1990 from Texas A&M Commerce.

Along with numerous teaching positions, including most recently Tyler Junior College, Dr. Bennie has served her community in different roles. She has served as Board President of Discover Science Place, served as shelter manager of the critical needs shelter at TJC for Hurricane Rita, assisted in establishing emergency living shelters for Hurricane Katrina victims, and more non-profit ministries.

Dr. Otis received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education and Biology from Wiley College. He went on to earn his Master’s and Doctorate from Texas A&M Commerce. Working in the educational field, he held careers as a professor, worked in student affairs, and is currently a professor in the psychology department at Tyler Junior College.

When it comes to life mottos, Dr. Otis told a childhood story about the term ‘lollygag,’ meaning spend time aimlessly. However, to him, he termed it “lalogag” - Living a life of gratitude and gratefulness.

“I don’t have bad days,” he said. “I might have a bad moment, but a bad day, I quit having bad days 60 years ago.”

Speaking on the topic of growing older in a community that supports aging, Dr. Bennie laughed and said, “I wouldn’t say I’m an older person, I would say I’m a more seasoned person.”

She credited her health to physical activity, diet, peace, and staying active in the community.

“When you have peace in your life, it’s very easy to give back to people and reach out,” Dr. Bennie said.

“For me, it’s maintaining a healthy mindset and engaging in things that are healthy for me,” Dr. Otis said. “A healthy attitude and a healthy diet.”

A large part of the Webster’s life is the involvement with their non-profit program, Youth Keepers of America, which works with youth in the community and across the world to build skills in maintaining healthy relationships with others.

When asked about advice given to others about aging well, both spoke on finding your own path.

“You don’t have to swim upstream going against the current to be successful, nor do you have to swim downstream with the current to be successful,” said Dr. Otis. “My advice is to find your own stream and let it guide you.”

“Be true to yourself. Be who you are,” said Dr. Bennie. “Be the best person you can be and be who you are and be true to yourself and run your own race."

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas to Reopen Senior Meal Sites to the Public

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:53:27 GMT

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) is pleased to announce the reopening of senior centers serving congregate meals in Camp, Marion, Harrison, Rains, and Wood counties starting on July 12. The meal sites closed to the public in March of 2020 to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. However, the AAA continued serving clients in the senior nutrition program by offering meals through delivery or pickup.

The AAA expends about $2.4 million for the senior nutrition program annually in East Texas, serving approximately 4,000 seniors. We contract with the Meals on Wheels Ministry of Tyler to serve six counties, the Meals on Wheels of Palestine for three counties, and the AAA serves as a direct provider for six counties. The program provides nutritious meals to older individuals (60 and over) through congregate meal sites and home-delivered meals.

AAA meal sites reopening on July 12:

Marshall Senior Center Open Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

106 E. Crockett Street

Marshall, TX 75670

Marshall #2 Senior Center Open Monday – Friday, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Oak Leaf Apartments - 113 Oakley Dr.

Marshall, TX 75670

Jefferson Senior Center

O pen Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

111 W. Broadway

Jefferson, TX 75657

UT Health Pittsburg

Open Monday – Friday, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

2701 U.S. Highway 271 N.

Pittsburg, TX 75686

Emory Senior Center

Open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

179 Doris Briggs Pkwy.

Emory, TX 75440

Waskom Senior Center

Open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

165 Texas Ave.

Waskom, TX 75692

*Reopened June 14*

Yantis Senior Center

Open Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

100 City Circle

Yantis, TX 75497

"Our hearts go out to our participants who have faced illness, death, and the loss of loved ones during the pandemic. We are grateful to the staff at the senior nutrition sites, which continued to serve our seniors," said ETCOG's Director of Aging, Bettye Mitchell. "This program is vital to help reduce social isolation of those who are homebound or in rural areas. Many of our clients use the congregate meal sites to engage with other seniors through games, conversations, and activities, so we are excited to reopen and bring seniors together to reconnect."

Find out if you are eligible for the senior nutrition program by calling 1-800-442-8845. The AAA offers sponsored public transportation to the senior centers through a partnership with GoBus .

ETCOG Invites Tornado Victims to Apply for Housing Assistance Through August 6

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 16:31:45 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments is seeking applications from residents affected by the March 2021 tornadoes in Panola and Rusk Counties to offer assistance through its HOME Disaster Relief Program. Through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), ETCOG assists qualified individuals impacted by storms and other disasters in East Texas.

“We were saddened to learn of the damage and loss of homes as a result of the recent tornadoes in East Texas,” said ETCOG’s Director of Aging and Housing Programs, Bettye Mitchell.” The East Texas Council of Government's HOME Program and the Area Agency on Aging can possibly be of assistance. Our hearts are with you during these difficult times.”

The HOME Disaster Relief Program allows ETCOG to support the rebuilding or repairing of eligible storm victim's homes in the affected area. Average costs to rebuild single-family homes are from $100,000 to $110,000, depending on the size of the family. Interested applicants will be required to meet the HOME Disaster Relief Program standards set forth by the TDHCA. Applicants must also meet federal rules and standards set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In addition, eligible clients must have experienced property damage from the tornado, have a clear title on their home with no liens, and not have received FEMA assistance.

The deadline to submit applications to the ETCOG office is Friday, August 6 by 5:00 p.m.

ETCOG to Host Community Meetings Offering Housing Assistance Opportunities Available to Panola and Rusk County Tornado Victims

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 14:57:30 GMT

Attend an upcoming community meeting on July 1 or July 6

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) will host community meetings for residents affected by the March 2021 tornadoes in Panola and Rusk counties to offer assistance through its HOME Disaster Relief Program. Through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), ETCOG assists qualified individuals impacted by storms and other disasters in East Texas. The community meetings will be held on the following dates:

Panola County Meet & Greet

Carthage Civic Center

July 1, 2021 | 12:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Rusk County Meet & Greet

Mt. Enterprise Community Center

July 6, 2021 | 12:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m.

"We were saddened to learn of the damage and loss of homes as a result of the recent tornadoes in East Texas," said ETCOG's Director of Aging and Housing Programs, Bettye Mitchell. "The East Texas Council of Governments' HOME program and the Area Agency on Aging can possibly be of assistance. We encourage citizens who have lost their homes and or received significant damage to attend scheduled meetings in your area. Our hearts are with you during these difficult times."

The HOME Disaster Relief Program allows ETCOG to support the rebuilding or repairing of eligible storm victims' homes in the affected area. Average costs to rebuild single-family homes are from $100,000 to $110,000, depending on the size of the family. Interested applicants will be required to meet the HOME Disaster Relief Program standards set forth by the TDHCA. Applicants must also meet federal rules and standards set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In addition, eligible clients must have experienced property damage from the tornado, have a clear title on their home with no liens, and not have received FEMA assistance.

We encourage individuals looking to seek assistance to attend an upcoming community meeting or contact 903-218-6565 or visit www.etcog.org/housing .

Older Americans - Sharing the Stories of East Texans

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 19:28:54 GMT

Cathryn Austin - Panola County

As part of the Area Agency of East Texas’ mission to serve the elderly population, 95-year-old Cathryn Austin of Panola County was gracious enough to share her life story with us.

Mrs. Austin was born and raised in Carthage, where she farmed, raised a family, and is still involved in the community she has come to love.

“Well, I grew up in Carthage, and went to school in Carthage, and worked in Carthage, and married a man out here,” she said.

That man, Truett Austin, and Cathryn had two children, Donna and Don.

“My brother is nine years younger than me, and I was so glad when he came along so he could share in the work,” said Donna Marler, Mrs. Austin’s daughter.

Throughout the years, the family raised livestock, grew vegetables, picked cotton on the family farm that has been in the family since 1917.

Hard work runs in the family and is a cherished value that both Mrs. Austin and Donna hold dear.

Even at 95-years-old, Mrs. Austin is still involved in the community through activities like sewing blankets for hospitals and foster homes and calling family and friends to keep spirits alive.

When asked what advice she would give others, Mrs. Austin said to stay busy.

“Finding out what they can do and see about doing it,” she said. “Just take every day as it comes.”

Department of Family and Protective Services Raises Awareness in June for Elder Abuse Month

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 18:09:02 GMT

June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month

June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and all month Adult Protective Services (APS) is working with community partners and professional groups around the state to raise awareness about adult abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. Join us in our elder abuse awareness events this month:

Sign up for financial exploitation training and learn how to prevent financial exploitation in your community.
And help spread the word about elder abuse awareness month using our social media toolkit .

To find out more about how you can get involved in your local to community to protect older Texans, contact your community engagement specialist .

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

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.

The purpose of WEAAD is to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic, and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect.

In addition, WEAAD is in support of the United Nations International Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. WEAAD serves as a call-to-action for individuals, organizations, and communities to raise awareness about elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: What We Have Learned

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 21:19:20 GMT

Please join us on June 9, 2021 at noon ET. for a national conversation

WEAAD serves as a call-to-action for individuals, organizations, and communities. We can fight the neglect and exploitation of our elder citizens in a number of ways, such as:

Check in with older adults and make sure they stay connected with their family and community members. Communicate in a way that works best for the older adult whether it be over the phone, via text, or video chat. You can learn more on the National Center on Elder Abuse’s (NCEA) COVID-19 and Elder Abuse page .
Rely on credible resources such as the Elder Care Locator (1-800-677-1116) to find help in your area—such as meal delivery, transportation, or credible phone reassurance programs.
Call on faith leaders to connect with survivors—as many older adults look to faith as a source of strength, resilience, and connection.
Stay up to date on COVID-19 scams . Be informed and check often as new information arises related to scams. If you come across a suspicious call or email, file a report with the FTC .
Lift up the voices of older survivors—and learn how communities can get involved .

Please join us on June 9, 2021 at noon ET. for a national conversation along with our partners at the Administration for Community Living, Elder Justice Initiative at the Department of Justice, Securities and Exchange Commission, Social Security, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. This webinar will highlight prominent elder justice issues and resources to strengthen the elder justice movement as we rebuild from the pandemic. Attendees will learn about tools and tips to enhance their elder abuse outreach and response efforts—and strategies to spark community engagement. Learn more and register today .

When we can see ourselves in a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, then we can envision a world where elder abuse no longer exists. This WEAAD we can stand together with this common purpose. Please share this with your friends and family—and post it on social media.

Source: Social Security Administration

Ray Shares His Story for Older Americans Month

Wed, 12 May 2021 20:15:02 GMT

I belong to a Model A Club group nationwide of senior guys like myself, and we try to help each other and message each other about our Model A through a Vintage Ford Forum.

Ray Sullivent
Christian, Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather

Working with our local seniors, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will celebrate Older Americans Month by encouraging East Texas seniors to share their experiences. Together, we can find strength—and create a stronger future.

Aleeda and Michael Share Their Story for OAM

Thu, 06 May 2021 20:06:42 GMT

We have a pool that we open on Memorial Day and close on Labor Day that keeps the grands entertained during the summer months and keeps us busy too with its upkeep.

When you realize that 68 is not the 'new 40,' your mind plays tricks on you and makes you think you can do more and be more active than you can be. The older I get, the harder it is to stay active, especially since COVID-19. However, I keep in touch with family and friends on the computer and have been blessed to continue working from home.

I have found that setting goals to complete during the week helps me to stay active. I take walks around the yard or even around the house, load the dishwasher, put on a load of clothes to break up the monotony, and keep circulation moving. Also, completing chores around the house - cooking, grocery shopping, filling up the gas tank, washing clothes, vacuuming, and mopping keeps me active. My husband keeps busy by doing yard work and working with our small vegetable garden.

I have also been blessed to have my dad (92-years-old) still stay at home by himself and be in pretty good health. Since he uses a walker and is not very active, he has a caregiver to help with his household chores three days a week. Although we live about 40 minutes away, I continue to visit with him by phone several times a week, buy his groceries, run errands, pick up meds, cook him some meals for the week, and help him with other chores as needed.

Since COVID-19, we continue to improve our home, which is sometimes fun and then sometimes very trying. At our ages 68 (Aleeda) and 71 (Michael), we quickly realize we are not young anymore, and it takes more planning and time to accomplish tasks. The snow that hit East Texas for a week killed all of our azaleas and gardenias, so we are landscaping and replacing them as time permits. You soon realize how out of shape you are from doing yard work.

We also try to have some of the grandkids over on the weekends and during the summer. We have a pool that we open on Memorial Day and close on Labor Day that keeps the grands entertained during the summer months and keeps us busy too with its upkeep. My husband and I also try to take the grands to different festivals throughout the year and on vacation during the summer months. They also keep us busy throughout the year attending their sporting events and encouraging them from the sideline.

Also, during the summer, when vegetables are ready to be harvested, we try to can jalapeno relish, pick peas, and fill up the freezer with fresh vegetables. We also like to visit orchards for fresh watermelons and fruit for jams and jellies.

Aleeda and Michael Age

Area Agency on Aging Celebrates Older Americans Month May 2021: Communities of Strength

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 13:55:26 GMT

Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads the nationwide celebration of Older Americans Month (OAM). This year's theme is Communities of Strength, recognizing the vital role older adults play in fostering the connection and engagement that build strong, resilient communities.

Working with our local seniors, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will celebrate OAM by encouraging East Texas seniors to share their experiences. Together, we can find strength—and create a stronger future.

Here are some ways to share and connect:

Look for joy in every day: Celebrate small moments and ordinary pleasures by taking time to recognize them. Start a gratitude journal and share it with others via social media or call a friend or family member to share a happy moment or to say thank you.
Reach out to neighbors: Even if you can't get together in person right now, you can still connect with your neighbors. Leave a small gift on their doorstep, offer to help with outdoor chores, or deliver a homecooked meal.
Build new skills: Learning something new allows us to practice overcoming challenges. Take an art course online or try a socially distanced outdoor movement class to enjoy learning with others in your community. Have a skill to share? Find an opportunity to teach someone, even casually.
Share your story: There's a reason storytelling is a time-honored activity. Hearing how others experience the world helps us grow. Interviewing family, friends, and neighbors can open up new conversations and strengthen our connections.

"When people of different ages, backgrounds, abilities, and talents share experiences—through action, story, or service—we help build strong communities. And that's something to celebrate!" said AAA Director Bettye Mitchell. "Please join the AAA in strengthening our community – get moving, walk, stretch, or exercise with consultation with your doctor. Inspire. Encourage. Renew. Restore. Find ways to share, connect, and engage."

Throughout the month, the AAA will conduct activities and share information designed to highlight local programs and services available to help strengthen our senior community. We encourage seniors to get involved by attending one of our virtual health and wellness classes. These 1-2 hour workshops offer proven practices to aid in diabetes management, chronic disease management, fall prevention, and more. Register at www.easttexasaaa.org/health-and-wellness .

The AAA is also working in partnership with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to provide opioid misuse and prevention services for older adults. These services include awareness of medication management, storage, safe disposal, and intervention health and wellness classes.

Follow the AAA on social media, where we will share the story of several inspiring local seniors this month and information about benefits counseling services and avoiding scams. For more information, follow us on social media or call 1-800-442-8845.

The Texas Senior Advocacy Coalition Creates Video to ask the Texas Legislature for Expansion of Support for Seniors

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 16:50:53 GMT

THE MISSION OF THE TEXAS SENIOR ADVOCACY COALITION IS TO DEVELOP AND ACTIVELY SUPPORT PUBLIC POLICY TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR OLDER ADULTS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

The Texas Senior Advocacy Coalition (TSAC) created a four-minute video asking the Texas Legislature for support with three issues:

Establishing elder financial abuse centers
Increasing AmeriCorps-Seniors funding by 10%
Medicaid expansion for seniors in Texas

Our Director of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas, Bettye Mitchell, speaks in the video on the need to expand services. We urge you to share this video with anyone who needs to be educated about our programs and their impact. Please let your Legislature know about your specific project, sites, and volunteer counts in their district. Please help us share the individual stories of senior Texans who need change regarding these issues.

By sharing this short video attached below, you are advocating for seniors, which will hopefully lead to a better life for them in the great state of Texas.

Thank you for your time and help in getting this video seen.

Texas DSHS Launches Texas Public Health Vaccine Scheduler

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 19:45:54 GMT

As Texas opens COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to everyone age 16 and older, the Texas Department of State Health Services is launching the Texas Public Health Vaccine Scheduler . The scheduler gives people one place to sign up for a COVID-19 shot through multiple public health departments, including the eight DSHS public health regions, which provide public health services in nearly 200 Texas counties , and more than a dozen local health entities across the state.

Texas residents can visit getthevaccine.dshs.texas.gov to create a profile that includes their contact information, demographic details, and preferred time of day and days of the week for an appointment. Within a day, people eligible to be vaccinated will be matched with the next available appointment within their home county and preferred times. If none are available, the scheduler will continue to search for appointments as new clinics are scheduled and contact individuals when they have an appointment.

While most people will sign up online, a toll-free number is available to assist special populations that have difficulty using the online registration tool, including older adults over age 65, people with disabilities, and those with limited Internet access or other barriers to using technology. People in those groups can call 1-833-832-7067 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week to enroll in the scheduler and get help making an appointment. If there is no a participating health department in their area, they will be referred to local providers conducting vaccination near them.

The Texas Public Health Vaccine Scheduler will not replace all COVID-19 vaccine registration in the state. Many entities – including pharmacies, medical practices and some public health departments – are operating their own registration systems and will continue to do so. People who want to be vaccinated should continue to look for available vaccine at those providers, as well. Links to other vaccine scheduling tools are available at dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/immunize/vaccine.

HHSC Updates Visitation Rules for Long-Term Care Facilities

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 18:03:34 GMT

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is expanding visitation statewide in nursing facilities and other long-term care settings, effective today. Per federal guidance issued March 10 by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services , fully vaccinated nursing facility residents are now allowed close, in-person visits with family members and friends who are not designated essential caregivers, as long as proper safeguards are in place.

“Safely visiting with family and friends is vital to the mental health and well-being of long-term care residents,” said Victoria Ford, HHS chief policy and regulatory officer. “We are so pleased these new rules will allow residents to enjoy in-person visits with a wider circle of loved ones.”

For nursing facilities, these updated visitation rules give providers additional flexibilities in accordance with the new federal guidelines.

While continuing to follow all protocols to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, including the wearing of face masks, Texas nursing facilities can now permit:

close/personal contact during any visitation for fully vaccinated residents.
outdoor visitation at all facilities, even when the facility has an outbreak.
up to two essential caregivers at the same time to visit a resident with any COVID-19 status.
all visitation without time limits, while adhering to infection prevention and control measures.
end-of-life visits for all residents regardless of their COVID-19 status in all nursing facilities, with an expanded definition of end-of-life visits that now includes all residents receiving hospice services; residents at or near the end of life, with or without hospice services; and residents whose prognosis does not indicate recovery.

Nursing facilities no longer need to:

request general visitation approval from HHSC.
monitor visits or escort visitors to and from the visitation area.
limit indoor visitation to areas with a plexiglass barrier or booth.
require documentation of a negative COVID-19 test result for essential caregiver or salon services visitors.
In addition to nursing facilities, HHSC expanded visitation allowed in assisted living facilities, intermediate care facilities, and Home and Community-based Services providers. The new rules also remove certain administrative requirements for providers, such as the rules to have staff monitor certain visits and escort visitors to and from a visiting area.

Click here to view the updated emergency rules for nursing facilities.

For more information about how HHSC is helping Texans affected by COVID-19, visit the HHS website.

Texas DSHS Announces New COVID-19 Vaccination Group

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 15:06:46 GMT

Because the U.S. supply of COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be limited at first, CDC is providing recommendations to federal, state, and local governments about who should be vaccinated first. CDC’s recommendations are based on those from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) , an independent panel of medical and public health experts.

The recommendations were made with these goals in mind:

Decrease death and serious disease as much as possible.
Preserve functioning of society.
Reduce the extra burden COVID-19 is having on people already facing disparities.

While CDC makes recommendations for who should be offered COVID-19 vaccine first, each state has its own plan for deciding who will be vaccinated first and how they can receive vaccines. Please contact your local health department for more information on COVID-19 vaccination in your area.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) continues to receive doses of the Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines, and is distributing statewide to hospitals, pharmacies, local health departments, freestanding ERs, and other clinics.

Spring 2021 is the best estimate of when vaccine will be available for the general public, but that may change. It depends on vaccine production and how quickly other vaccines become available.

Phase 1A

Direct care - Hospital, long-term care, EMS, 9-1-1-, home health, outpatient, ER/urgent care, pharmacies, last responders, school nurses
Long-term care residents and facilities

Phase 1B

Persons 65+ or 16+ with at least one chronic medical condition, including pregnancy

With the federal directive , the following education and child care personnel are now eligible to be vaccinated in Texas:

Those who work in pre-primary, primary, and secondary schools;
Head Start and Early Head Start programs (including teachers, staff, and bus drivers); and
Those who work as or for licensed child care providers, including center-based and family care providers.

Additional information for educators and school staff is available in the Texas Education Agency (TEA) K-12 COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ .

Beginning March 15, persons age 50-64 will be eligible to receive the vaccine under Phase 1C.

Long-Term Care Facilities to Follow Texas HHSC Guidance Regarding Visitations Following Gov. Abbott's Executive Order

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 14:05:53 GMT

On Tuesday, March 2, Governor Greg Abbott issued an Executive Order (EO) related to the COVID-19 Pandemic in Texas. The EO covered capacity limitations for businesses and the mask mandate that has been in effect since July 2, 2020.

Gov. Abbott's EO rescinded the mask mandate and allows businesses to operate at 100% capacity as of Wednesday, March 10.

Based on the information provided, long-term care facilities are encouraged to follow guidance from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) regarding visitations.

Communities Open Warming Centers for Those in Need During Winter Storm

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 17:25:15 GMT

Due to snow, freezing rain, and ice, many East Texans have been left with no water or power.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management has developed a list of warming centers available at locations across the state to help.

The National Guard is deployed across Texas to conduct welfare checks and assist local authorities in helping those in need find a local warming station.

To find the closest warming shelter, please use the map below, or for information on additional assistance and resources, call 2-1-1.

Free Income Tax Assistance Available to Seniors

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 19:04:58 GMT

The Greater Longview United Way , in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service, assists low-income families with free preparation of their income tax returns through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program . The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program helps local residents who earn less than about $60,000 a year to access credits for which they are eligible, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

The VITA program utilizes IRS trained community volunteers to provide this free service to local residents. English and Spanish speaking volunteers are available. For over ten years, Greater Longview United Way has provided free tax preparation. VITA volunteers assisted 864 families in preparing and e-file their 2019 income tax returns. This program helped families take advantage of the tax credits they are eligible for, including the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Education Credit. The total amount of the returns brought back into the community added up to over one million dollars.

Click here to book an appointment

What's New for Medicare in 2021

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 21:45:11 GMT

Medicare Advantage Plan costs

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, your plan administers your Part B coverage. Remember that most people with Medicare, whether they have Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan, pay the Part B monthly premium. Some people with a Medicare Advantage Plan may also pay an additional monthly premium for being enrolled in that plan.

If you have the same Medicare Advantage Plan in 2021 as you did in 2020, your plan should have sent you an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) or Evidence of Coverage (EOC) notice explaining any changes for the coming year. Review this notice to understand your plan’s costs, covered services, and rules. Contact your plan if you did not receive these documents in the fall or want another copy. If you chose a new Medicare Advantage Plan, you should get an EOC for the new plan. Review that document to understand the costs associated with the plan for 2021.

When can I change my Medicare coverage in 2021?

During the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP) , you can switch from your Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan or to Original Medicare with or without a stand-alone prescription drug plan. The MA OEP occurs from January 1 through March 31. Changes made during this period are effective the first of the following month.

If you have Extra Help in 2021, you have a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in a Part D plan or switch between plans. This SEP is available once per calendar quarter for the first three quarters of the year (January-March, April-June, and July-September). If you use the Extra Help SEP to change your coverage, the change will become effective the following month.

If you qualify for another Special Enrollment Period , you may be able to make changes to your Medicare health/drug coverage. For example, you may have an SEP if you move outside of your plan’s service area or If you think a government employee made a mistake while assisting you. Call 1-800-MEDICARE to use an SEP, and contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) by calling 877-839-2675 for more information.

Who can I contact if I have Medicare-related questions?

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): Contact your SHIP if you have questions about changes in costs and coverage of your Medicare in 2021. SHIP counselors provide unbiased Medicare counseling and assistance. Contact Juanita Beason with the East Texas Area Agency on Aging at juanita.beason@etcog.org or 1-800-442-8845.

Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Contact your SMP ( 1-888-341-6187 ) if you believe you have enrolled in a plan based on misleading information or were enrolled in a plan without your knowledge. SMPs empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report health care fraud, errors, and abuse.

1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227): Call 1-800-MEDICARE to use an SEP, to request another copy of the Medicare & You handbook, or for more information about your 2021 coverage.

Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D plan: If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D plan, contact your plan to ask about changes in your costs or coverage for 2021. You may also contact your Medicare Advantage Plan if you are using the MA OEP to switch plans.

COVID-19 Vaccine Information from the Texas Department of State Health Services

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 20:45:56 GMT

What’s Next with the COVID‑19 Vaccine in Texas

“All providers that have received COVID-19 vaccine must immediately vaccinate healthcare workers, Texans over the age of 65, and people with medical conditions that put them at a greater risk of severe disease or death from COVID-19. No vaccine should be kept in reserve.”

– DSHS Commissioner John Hellerstedt, M.D.

Texas continues to receive doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines, and is distributing statewide to hospitals, pharmacies, local health departments, freestanding ERs and other clinics.

Who can get the vaccine now?

Front-line healthcare workers and residents at long-term care facilities ( called Phase 1A ) plus people over 65 or with a chronic medical condition that puts them at increased risk for severe illness from COVID‑19 ( called Phase 1B ) are currently eligible to receive the COVID‑19 vaccine.

Phase 1B recipients include:

People 65 years of age and older
People 16 years of age and older with at least one chronic medical condition that puts them at increased risk for severe illness from the virus that causes COVID-19, such as but not limited to:
Cancer
Chronic kidney disease
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
Down Syndrome
Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease or cardiomyopathies
Solid organ transplantation
Obesity and severe obesity (body mass index of 30 kg/m2 or higher)
Pregnancy
Sickle cell disease
Type 2 diabetes mellitus

If I’m eligible for vaccine now, how do I get one?

If you are in Phase 1A or 1B, you have two options to get the vaccine: you can get vaccinated at a large vaccine hub or a local vaccine provider.

Beginning in January, Texas established large vaccination sites or hubs around the state. The goal of these hubs is to provide more people the vaccine and a simpler way to sign up for an appointment.

Please check the COVID‑19 Vaccination Hub Providers page to find a hub near you and learn how to register. Remember, vaccine supply is still limited in Texas, even though more arrives each week.

Please note:

Do not show up at a vaccine hub without first signing up or checking the provider’s instructions for scheduling.
Hub providers may already have long waiting lists or may be no longer accepting appointments for the week.
Each hub’s registration process is different, so look carefully at the hub’s registration site for details.
Depending on the provider, you may be placed on a waiting list and/or may be contacted (phone, email, or text) when vaccines become available.

Another option is to check with a vaccine provider near you. Local vaccine providers, like pharmacies, may have vaccine available. Use the Texas COVID‑19 Vaccine Availability map to find a provider near you with vaccine available. Check the provider’s website for how to best sign up for a vaccine.

Remember:

Do not show up at a hospital or clinic looking for vaccine.
Instead please check their website for information about vaccine availability and/or a wait list.
Call only if the website doesn’t answer your questions.

Thank you for your patience as Texas receives more vaccine every week.

After Phase 1, who gets the vaccine next and when?

Spring 2021 is the best estimate of when vaccine will be available for the general public, but that may change. It depends on vaccine production and how quickly other vaccines become available. The Expert Vaccine Allocation Panel (EVAP) is considering what criteria could be used for later stages of vaccine distribution.

For more information, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services website.

New Year Encourages Healthy Lifestyle as AAA Holds Virtual Wellness Classes

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 21:57:14 GMT

The new year is here, so how will you make a difference?

Start your New Year’s resolution with a self-improvement objective by enrolling with one of Area Agency on Aging’s six-week health and wellness classes at no cost to you! Each class takes place once a week and is approximately one-two hours long. Over the course of six weeks, you will learn the importance of healthy eating, coping with stress, action planning, and Q&A.

During these times, we are all going through similar situations and dealing with chronic conditions. Learn how to better understand and manage your health by attending one of the programs to improve your physical and mental health!

For more information, contact Nellie Henry at (903) 595-5211.

Beware of the Following COVID-19 Vaccine Scams

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 16:52:43 GMT

With the coronavirus vaccine recently approved, criminals are ready to take advantage of Americans who are longing to get back to a normal life. Homeland Security investigators and others say that people should only get a vaccine from an approved medical provider, they shouldn't respond to calls seeking personal information, and they shouldn't click on social media posts purporting to sell cures. The Texas Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) says to be aware of the following vaccine scams:

You will likely not need to pay anything out of pocket to get the vaccine during this public health emergency.
You cannot pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.
You cannot pay to get early access to the vaccine.
No one from Medicare or the Health Department will contact you.
No one from a vaccine distribution site or health care payer, like a private insurance company, will call you asking for your Social Security number or your credit card or bank account information to sign you up to get the vaccine.
Beware of providers offering other products, treatments, or medicines to prevent the virus. Check with your health care provider before paying for or receiving any COVID-19 related treatment.
If you get a call, text, email - or even someone knocking on your door - claiming they can get you early access to the vaccine, STOP, that's a scam.

Contact the Texas Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) for help at 1-800-341-6187.

Area Agency on Aging to Host 29th Annual REACH Conference Virtually Educating Hundreds Who Work with Seniors

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 19:41:25 GMT

Approximately 200 nursing facility administrators, practitioners, caregivers, and others who work with seniors will receive training at the annual REACH Conference (Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare). The Conference is hosted each year by the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) to provide educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities for professionals, caregivers, social workers, case managers, individuals serving older adults and persons with disabilities, and anyone interested in Aging issues.

As a safety precaution, the conference has transitioned into a one-day virtual event. This year’s theme, “Revision” features distinguished speakers, panel discussions, and various networking opportunities.

“We are excited to bring to you REACH 2020, as we revision our service delivery systems, commitment, and dedication in serving our community during a pandemic,” said Bettye Mitchell, Director of the Area Agency on Aging. “We are thankful to our partners, speakers and to the Aging Committee for their zeal in presenting this conference. As we bring 2020 to an end, we look forward to preparing for a face-to-face REACH conference 2021.”

Special keynote presentations include:

Meaningful Work and Workplace Engagement

Justin Jones-Fosu – Founder and CEO of Work. Meaningful. Where he helps organizations and individuals take ownership of their mindset, purpose, and performance to achieve amazing results.

Understanding and Responding to Dementia Related Behaviors

Jennifer DiLorenzo – Hospice consultant at Loving Hope Hospice. Jennifer makes it her mission to help families have a meaningful and memorable interaction with their loved ones with the absolute best quality of life and care.

Effective Communication Strategies for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

Bronwen Zilmer and Marshall Kratz – Bronwen is the Founder of The Oasis. Through personal experience, Bronwen helps give caregivers the chance to take care of themselves while having activities for their loved ones through The Oasis program. Marshall is a member of the REACH planning committee and a retired Certified Community Health Worker Trainer.

Ethical Leadership: Walking the Talk

LaWandra Smith – Founder of Blossoming You. LaWandra built her organization to help individuals develop their leadership skills through self-reflection and self-discovery.

REACH is partially funded by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. To register for the event or for more information, call the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas at (903) 218-6500 or visit our conference website at www.aaa-reachconference.org.

Benefits Counseling Assistance Available for Medicare Beneficiaries Through Open Enrollment

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 21:24:52 GMT

Follow these Tips to Avoid Medicare Fraud

People with Medicare have more choices and options for their Medicare coverage in 2021 with historically low premiums. Plan costs and covered benefits have changed, so the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) encourages people with Medicare to look at their coverage choices and decide the options that best fits their health needs. Open Enrollment for 2021 Medicare health and drug plans began on October 15, 2020, and ends December 7, 2020, giving individuals a chance to modify their plans.

The changes Medicare recipients can make during Open Enrollment include:

Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan
Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan
Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan)

“We recommend that you get a family member to help if you don’t use the Internet or call us to talk with a certified Benefits Counselor. Our Benefits Counselors may not recommend a specific policy or plan, but can provide factual, unbiased information and assistance to help seniors make their choice of coverage. And it is always good to compare plans every year, even if you like your current plan," said AAA director Bettye Mitchell.

The AAA is also known as the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and is available to compare your current coverage with available options and assist you with enrollment at no cost. Speak to a qualified Benefits Counselor by calling 1-800-442-8845. You may set up an appointment and be advised over the phone or by virtual meeting.

Be on alert for these Medicare Open Enrollment scams:

Medicare or a health plan calls and wants to send you a new health card for $299.
You receive a call about a refund from last year’s premiums or your drug plan cost.
An agent tries to sign you up for a plan that you don’t need, isn’t right for you, or doesn’t even exist.
Watch out for fake RX cards offering significant discounts with little or no benefits.
You receive a call offering significant discounts on a new health insurance plan.

Tips on how to stop fraud during Open Enrollment:

Medicare will never call or visit. Medicare will only send information via postal mail service.
Guard your Medicare card and number like a credit card.
Don’t give out your Medicare number except to your doctor or other providers.
Don’t let someone push you into making a fast decision.
If you receive a call, especially from a number you do not recognize or anyone requesting personal information, hang up immediately.
Know your health care options. Get help from your family, the Medicare website, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
No health care plan is allowed to cold call.

For questions about fraud or to report a scam, please contact the Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-888-341-6187.

National Drug Take Back Day Encourages Safe Disposal of Medication

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 21:54:27 GMT

The Drug Enforcement Administration, DEA, is holding its 19th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 24 at locations across the country. The nationwide event aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.

Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

Collection sites will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations to maintain the safety of all participants and local law enforcement.

“The initiative – now in its tenth year – addresses a vital public safety and public health issue,” said DEA Acting Administrator Timothy Shea. “Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Together with our partners, we are not only holding National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, but offering other ways to dispose of unwanted, unused, and expired prescription medications.”

Given the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency, DEA wants to ensure that the public is aware of other ways they can dispose of unwanted prescription drugs without having to leave their homes. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency have tips on how to safely dispose of drugs at home.

In addition to DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, prescription drugs can be disposed of at any of the 11,000 DEA authorized collectors at any time throughout the year.

DEA also encourages the public to reach out to their local law enforcement to find out if they have any permanent drug disposal locations throughout their local community.

DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms. DEA will also accept vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers, only after the batteries are removed from the devices. If the battery cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal. Liquids, including intravenous solutions, syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs cannot be dropped off. This service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

For more information on DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, and to find a collection site near you, visit www.deatakeback.com.

East Texas Locations

2021 Medicare Advantage and Part D Plan Information Now Available on Medicare.gov Ahead of Medicare Open Enrollment

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 16:30:38 GMT

Following last week’s announcement of historically low premiums in Medicare Advantage, starting today, seniors can begin to compare their Medicare coverage options for 2021. CMS has released the 2021 benefit and cost-sharing information for Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans on Medicare.gov. Additionally, for the first time, seniors will be able to find through Medicare Plan Finder on Medicare.gov more than 1,600 prescription drug plans to choose from that will offer insulin at no more than a $35 monthly copay beginning in January.

Average 2021 premiums for Medicare Advantage plans are expected to decline 34.2 percent from 2017 while plan choice, benefits, and enrollment continue to increase. The Medicare Advantage average monthly premium will be the lowest in 14 years (since 2007). This is for the over 26 million Medicare beneficiaries projected to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan for 2021. In some states, including Alabama, Nevada, Michigan, and Kentucky, beneficiaries will see average premium decreases of more than 50 percent since 2017.

Beneficiaries will have more plan choices in Medicare Advantage, with about 2,100 more Medicare Advantage plans operating in 2021 than in 2017, a 76.6 percent increase. Overall, beneficiaries will be able to choose from more than 4,800 Medicare Advantage plans during Medicare Open Enrollment.

CMS has added a new “Insulin Savings” filter on Medicare Plan Finder to display plans that will offer the capped out-of-pocket costs for insulin. Beneficiaries use the Medicare Plan Finder to view plan options and look for a participating plan in their area that covers their insulin at no more than a $35 monthly copay.

Medicare Open Enrollment begins on October 15, 2020, and ends on December 7, 2020. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can compare coverage options like Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage and choose health and drug plans for 2021. Medicare health and drug plan costs and covered benefits can change from year to year, so people with Medicare should look at their coverage choices and decide on the options that best meet their health needs. They can visit Medicare.gov ( https://www.medicare.gov ), call 1-800-MEDICARE, or contact their State Health Insurance Assistance Program . People who want to keep their current Medicare coverage do not need to re-enroll.

Benefits Counselors Taking Calls for Medicare Open Enrollment

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 16:25:58 GMT

Medicare Open Enrollment Oct. 15 - Dec. 7

The Area Agency on Aging of East Texas is now taking calls to guide seniors through the Medicare open enrollment period which takes place October 15 through December 7.

Our certified benefits counselors are available to provide factual, unbiased information, and assistance to those seeking help.

You can call and schedule an appointment at 1-800-442-8845 or learn more by visiting the benefits counseling page on our website.

The IRS Extends Deadline to Ensure People with Children Receive $500 Economic Impact Payments

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 20:00:20 GMT

The IRS has extended its deadline to September 30, 2020, for people to provide information to the IRS using its Non-Filer Tool at www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here . People should do this if they:

receive Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability benefits, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments;
did not file a 2019 or 2018 tax return;
have a qualifying child under age 17; and
did not already enter information in the IRS’ Non-Filer Tool for themselves and at least one child.
If someone already entered information in the IRS’ Non-Filer Tool before, and even after, the IRS’ previously announced deadlines (April 22 if receiving Social Security; May 5 if receiving SSI) they do not need to do anything. The IRS will automatically make an EIP payment in October 2020 based on the information provided to them.

Read the IRS’ August 14 press release at www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-takes-new-steps-to-ensure-people-with-children-receive-500-economic-impact-payments for more information .

For other Social Security information, please visit the agency’s COVID-19 web page at www.socialsecurity.gov/coronavirus/ .

Source: Social Security Press Office

HHSC to Allow Limited Visitation at Nursing Facilities and Long-Term Care Facilities

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 16:25:45 GMT

State Enhances Certain Emergency Safety Rules

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) today announced limited visitation rules for nursing facilities and long-term care facilities. HHSC is also issuing enhanced emergency rules requiring additional actions by nursing facilities to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

“This is a rapidly evolving situation and we are constantly assessing what actions are necessary to keep residents and staff safe in these facilities,” said Phil Wilson, Executive Commissioner, Texas HHSC. “By following these procedures and rules, facilities can more effectively prevent the spread of COVID-19 and help us achieve our shared goal of reuniting residents with their families and friends.”

“Access to family and loved ones is an important part of every resident’s health and well-being, which is why this policy shift is a move in the right direction for some of our most fragile Texans,” said Sen. Lois Kolkhorst (SD-18), Chair, Senate Committee on Health and Human Services.

“Today’s announcement is a critical first step for every person in a long-term care facility and their loved ones,” said Rep. James Frank (HD-69), Chair, Texas House Committee on Human Services. “This decision underscores that state leaders recognize the need to balance the emotional and physical health impacts of isolation against the serious dangers that COVID poses to these vulnerable Texans.”

Nursing Facilities

For the health and safety of facility residents and staff, public visitation is limited to outdoor visits only. Physical contact between residents and visitors is not permitted. Additional conditions a facility must meet to conduct limited outdoor visitation include:

No confirmed positive COVID-19 cases in staff in the last 14 days.
No active positive cases in residents.
Any facility previously experiencing an outbreak that has fully recovered must be adequately staffed and following adequate infection control procedures.
Facility staff are being tested for COVID-19 weekly.

Further guidance on limited nursing facility visitation rules, which include window visits and vehicle parades, will be posted on the HHSC COVID-19 provider web page.

Long-Term Care Facilities (except Nursing Facilities)

Limited indoor and outdoor visitation procedures are allowed. Physical contact between residents and visitors is not permitted. Additional conditions a facility must meet to conduct limited visitation include:

No confirmed COVID-19 positive staff in last 14 days.
No active positive cases in residents.
Adequate staffing to facilitate visitation in compliance with infection control requirements.
Use of plexiglass as a safety barrier for indoor visitation to prevent spread of COVID-19.

Further guidance on limited indoor and outdoor visitation rules will be posted on the HHSC COVID-19 provider web page.

Emergency Rule Enhancements

Enhanced emergency rules for nursing facilities include:

Each facility must have a COVID-19 response plan that includes designated staff to work with cohorts of residents who have tested positive for COVID-19, and staff should not change designation from one day to another, unless required to maintain adequate staffing for a cohort.
All nursing facilities must screen all residents, staff, and people who come to the facility in accordance with specified criteria, and each resident must be screened at least three times a day for signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
Each facility must have plans for obtaining and maintaining a two-week supply of personal protective equipment and resident recovery plans for continuing care when a resident recovers from COVID-19.

The full emergency rules will be posted on the HHSC COVID-19 provider web page.

The latest guidance for nursing facilities is posted here . Texas HHSC continues to investigate all long-term care facilities in the state that report one or more positive case of COVID-19, as well as coordinate closely with local, state, and federal health authorities.

For more information about how HHSC is helping Texans affected by COVID-19, visit the HHSC website .

Source: Texas Health & Human Services

Area Agency on Aging Receives Funding to Expand Services for East Texas Seniors through COVID-19 Pandemic

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 12:52:25 GMT

Planned Increases Underway for Meal Program, Support Services, and Alzheimer’s Program Support

ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging (AAA) program has received a total of $2,695,330 in COVID-19 Families First Coronavirus Response Act Funds. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act, signed into law by President Trump on March 18, 2020, provided the additional funding for the nutrition services programs authorized by the Older Americans Act of 1965. The need for these services, particularly home-delivered and packaged meals, has increased as community measures to slow transmission of COVID-19 have closed meal sites and have left many family caregivers unable to assist their older loved ones. A total of $628,039 has been received for the East Texas AAA senior nutrition program and will be expended through our home-delivered and congregate meal programs. The congregate meal program has transitioned to “grab and go” at all meal sites for safety purposes. A total of $2,067,291 was received for other AAA service delivery programs.

“Our leadership has been consulting with staff, community partners, and queried recipients of services during this pandemic to identify the most significant needs for East Texas seniors,” said ETCOG’s Director of the Area Agency on Aging, Bettye Mitchell. “We are expanding our policies to be more flexible in a COVID-19 environment, and are increasing service capacity to serve more seniors through information and referral services, the senior nutrition program, emergency food relief, public transportation support, and Alzheimer’s services.”

“The East Texas AAA’s CARES Act investment in vital senior support programs and services provides one example of ETCOG’s overarching commitment to help our region’s citizens, and businesses recover from the devastating effects of COVID-19. You can expect to hear more from us soon as we seek additional ways and means to support our jurisdictions and all East Texans,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland.

The AAA has comprehensive plans to expend the COVID funds to assist seniors within East Texas through September of 2021. The plan is subject to modification as continual guidance is received from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Plans for expansion of AAA services include, but is not limited to:

Increasing Case Management and Caregiver Support services for clients receiving in-home assistance. These provide up to 12 weeks of services for an average of 8-12 hours per week, depending on the need and programs served.
Expanding Case Management services to seniors living at home who do not have a caretaker or family member to provide services.
Expansion of health and wellness education forums to aid in senior diabetes management, chronic pain management, and tai chi to improve balance, stability, pain management and flexibility in older people.
Providing outreach and awareness of the availability of services to homeless individuals in the region by increasing existing partnerships with the Salvation Army, Goodwill, the Highway 80 Rescue Mission, and homeless coalitions.
Expanding transportation services through increasing sponsored senior trips through ETCOG’s rural transit provider, GoBus , and authorizing more services for special needs populations, including piloting individualized transportation for critical need patients.
Expanding Alzheimer’s services to programs in Smith, Van Zandt, and Gregg counties by awarding grants to purchase ID bracelets for Project Lifesaver, increasing Respite services for relief to caregivers, supporting educational forums, and authorizing services for Alzheimer’s patients to attend day activity programs.
Purchasing needed equipment for senior nutrition providers.
Serving clients who have been on waiting lists for the AAA direct delivery nutrition programs.
Assisting with purchases for emergency services for seniors in need of food, housing assistance, utilities, medical supplies, medical equipment, etc.
Partnering with Workforce Solutions East Texas to help promote AAA services to veterans and the senior workforce who have financially been adversely impacted by COVID-19.

Seniors aged 60 or older who are in need of assistance are encouraged to contact the AAA by calling 1-800-442-8845 or visiting our website for more information.

HHSC to Post COVID-19 Data for State Hospitals, SSLCs, Nursing Facilities and Assisted Living Facilities

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 15:30:41 GMT

Beginning Monday, July 27, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will electronically post to its website COVID-19 case counts and deaths by facility name for state supported living centers, state hospitals, and state-licensed nursing and assisted living facilities.

“HHSC has a legal and ethical obligation to protect the private health information of everyone we serve, both in the private facilities we regulate and those we operate,” said HHS Executive Commissioner Phil Wilson. “We appreciate the guidance from the Attorney General of Texas, which allows us to release this additional data while maintaining important personal privacy protections.”

Data on COVID-19 case counts and deaths will be updated on the HHSC website daily on weekdays, no later than 3 p.m. CT.

Data for the state-operated SSLCs and state hospitals will reflect confirmed cases as of the previous business day.

Because nursing facilities and assisted living facilities self-report data to HHSC, staff must review and correct any clerical or reporting errors to ensure data integrity. To accommodate time for this review, data posted on these facilities will reflect counts two weeks prior to the date of posting.

The daily case count postings can be found here .

More information is available at hhs.texas.gov . Texas residents can dial 2-1-1 to learn about HHS programs and services.

Source: HHSC

Avoid COVID-19 Scams

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 20:03:03 GMT

Have you gotten robocalls, text messages, or emails offering free face masks? Or maybe you've seen social media posts about free COVID-19 testing kits, "cures," or protective equipment?

Unfortunately scammers are using the COVID-19 pandemic to try to steal your Medicare Number and personal information. If anyone reaches out to get your Medicare Number or personal information in exchange for something, you can bet it's a scam.

Stop scams before they happen. Watch this short video and visit Medicare.gov/fraud for tips on preventing Medicare scams and fraud. If you suspect fraud, call 1-800-MEDICARE to report it.

Are hospitals falsely tagging patients with COVID-19 to make money?

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 19:08:04 GMT

Senior Medicare Patrol Investigates

You’ve probably seen the headlines making the social media rounds. Claims that “hospitals get paid more to treat COVID-19 patients” and “is medicare paying hospitals $13,000 for patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and $39,000 for those on ventilators?”

In a recent post to the KPRC 2 Facebook page, a woman claimed discharge papers showed her mom had COVID-19 when she “absolutely did not have it,” and her husband told her hospitals get $30,000 per patient.

She’s not alone in asking Channel 2 Investigates about this, so we decided to put two claims through our Trust Index.

Is Medicare paying hospitals more for COVID-19 patients?

Here’s how Medicare, which is funded through your tax dollars, works.

When patients are discharged, hospitals assign them a code on their diagnosis and treatment, and Medicare pays hospitals a set amount based on that code. But when Congress drew up the CARES Act, it created a 20% “add on” for treatment of COVID-19 patients.

“The key component of it was an additional reimbursement for patients who had COVID to offset the revenue the would’ve made for their typical procedures,” explained hospital billing expert Shawn Fry. “Depending on the severity of the patient, you could make double, or even four or five times as much on that COVID patient.”

Politifact looked at an analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation which found the average Medicare payment for a less severe COVID-19 hospitalization was just over $13,000, and for a hospitalization requiring a ventilator it was just over $40,000. This includes the 20% “add on” through the CARES Act. That increases the hospital’s standard payment for similar treatment of non-COVID patients.

We rate the claim that hospitals make more money from COVID-19 patients as true.

Are hospitals falsely tagging patients with COVID-19 to make money?

“It is a possibility, any time you’re dealing with billing and coding,, there is a possibility for error,” said Jennifer Salazar with the Better Business Bureau’s Texas Senior Medicare Patrol. She advises that patients be proactive in tracking their diagnoses and treatments.

“When you got to the hospital or you see your doctor, write it down, write down what you’ve had done,” Salazar said.

And always review your discharge papers.

“If you see anything that looks suspicious or incorrect, if your not sure about, call us at the Texas Senior Medicare Patrol,” she said.

But there’s no hard evidence that hospitals are fraudulently identifying patients as “COVID positive”.

“To my knowledge, and I’ve talked to several different hospitals, no doctor has ever been incentivized to add the COVID-19 diagnosis to any patient’s file,” Fry said.

There are protocols in place to prevent that, including frequent audits, and harsh penalties for those who are caught doing it.

We rate the claim that hospitals are falsely tagging patients with COVID-19 to make money as false.

Watch the report from Click2Houston.com .

Now Seeking Vendors to Help Feed Our Seniors

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 15:33:36 GMT

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) and the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) are seeking vendors to provide meals to East Texas seniors through its Senior Nutrition Program. The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to establish multiple providers and suppliers for the Senior Nutrition Program to provide nutritious hot lunchtime meals, deliver frozen and/or shelf stable meals and meal site supplies and products to our designated locations in the identified counties of Camp, Harrison, Marion, Panola, Rains and Wood to serve individuals who are sixty (60) years of age or older, or spouses/caregivers. Meals are delivered to homebound clients by paid staff and volunteers. The AAA may elect to award more than one contract per service area for the delivery of hot lunchtime meals, frozen meals and/or supplier of products.

The AAA is an organizational and operational division of the ETCOG and authorized to provide services to the senior population and recipients of Medicare of the 14 counties in the East Texas region. The AAA actively works to improve the quality of life of the region’s senior population, those 60 and above and to Medicare/Medicaid recipients needing benefits counseling. This is accomplished through the various programs operated through the agency which include nutrition; information, referral, and assistance; ombudsman; case management and advocacy; benefits counseling; residential repair; and caregiver in-home institutional services; transportation, and caregiver support. The AAA’s primary focus is to help the elderly maintain their health and independence and remain in their homes and communities with dignity and respect for as long as possible.

The Older Americans Act, as amended, provides funds for nutrition services for persons sixty (60) years of age and older. Hot, nutritious meals provided, at a congregate site, five days a week, except with an approved waiver from the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), and with home-delivered meals available to those who are not physically able to attend the meal site. Congregate meals are funded under provisions of the Older Americans Act, Title III, Section C.1. Home-delivered meals are funded under the Older Americans Act, Title III, Section C.2, Title XIX of the Social Security Waiver and Title XX of the Social Security Act.

Wellness and Brain Injury Webinar Series Starts July 1

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 13:46:52 GMT

Join the National Association of State Head Injury Administrators (NASHIA) for a webinar series about how to address two areas focused on wellness and brain injury. Both sessions will be recorded and made available for replay.

Part 1: Sleep and Brain Injury

Wednesday, July 1, noon - 1 pm ET

Sleep is everything. Sleep (or the lack of it) can significantly impact brain function for everyone, and individuals are particularly at risk after brain injury. Accurate assessment of sleep disorders is critical in addressing residuals as is appropriate behavior management. This presentation will discuss:

Sleep and dementing disease, and how less sleep chemically increases the spread of pathology;
Various sleep disorders after brain injury;
The criticality of assessment of sleep disorders; and
Approaches to behavioral health management of sleep problems.

Presenter: Kim Gorgens, PhD, ABPP,Professor, University of Denver. Dr. Gorgens is an expert in assessment and management of healthy, aging, and injured brains and oversees a large portfolio of TBI research. She has lectured extensively on brain injury (including her 2010 TED talk on youth sports concussion and a 2018 TED talk on brain injuries in criminal justice). Her work has been featured in US News, Newsweek, Salon.com and many others. She is board certified in Rehabilitation Psychology and is the Vice President of the American Board of Rehabilitation Psychology.

Part 2: Yoga and Meditation for Brain Injury

Wednesday, July 15, noon - 1 pm ET

This presentation will describe the evidence-based benefits of yoga and meditation for rehabilitation from brain injury and guide participants through examples of brain injury-friendly yoga and meditation practices, which have been shown to improve physical, cognitive, and psychosocial outcomes. Participants will:

Be able to explain evidence-based benefits of yoga and meditation for brain injury rehabilitation;
Experience accessible yoga and meditation practices to understand unique benefits for enhancing well-being and community integration post-injury;
Understand how key stakeholders in advocacy, health care, research, yoga, and program administration can coordinate efforts to implement this program in communities across the U.S. and Canada; and
Be able to explain techniques for adapting yoga and meditation for the people with brain injury.

Presenter: Kyla Pearce, PhD, MPH, E-RYT-200, CBIS, Senior Director of Programs, LoveYourBrain Foundation. Dr. Pearce serves as Senior Director of Programs at the LoveYourBrain Foundation, overseeing design, implementation, and evaluation of programming. She has been part of the Pearce family for years, and, following Kevin's accident, played an integral role in the launch of the LoveYourBrain Foundation. Kyla blended her expertise as a yoga teacher and researcher to develop the LoveYourBrain Yoga TBI-centered curriculum, which she trains yoga teachers and clinicians to deliver through yoga studios and health care facilities across the country.

Source: Administration for Community Living

Standing up for Elder Justice During Challenging Times

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 19:15:32 GMT

Today, we commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) and affirm the rights and dignity of older adults.

We take this stand for elder justice as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect each of our lives and create new threats and challenges.

We know that strong supports and strong social connections are critical to preventing elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation and supporting survivors. Many of these supports and connections are being strained by physical distancing measures we are all taking to slow the spread of COVID-19. Even as the country begins to reopen, many older adults who face higher risk of serious illness will need to continue taking additional precautions such as staying at home.

We can all do our part to maintain the bonds of social connection within our communities while we are physically apart - whether we're organizing a virtual family gathering or just calling to check in. This crisis has brought out the best in so many people, including many aging services professionals who have gone the extra mile to maintain critical services and supports for older adults. From Long-Term Care Ombudsmen programs continuing their work with "virtual walk-throughs" to senior centers quickly launching virtual activities, I am in awe at your dedication and honored to call you colleagues.

Unfortunately, crises can also bring out the worst in some people. It seems like every day we hear about a new scam trying to take advantage of this pandemic to steal from older Americans. These scams are often carried out through calls, e-mails, or text messages claiming to be from federal or state agencies. Last week, at the Elder Justice Coordinating Council (EJCC) , we heard from our federal partners who are working to stop these scammers. We can each do our part by reporting scams we encounter and sharing verified information about the pandemic and government programs.

And today at 1pm EDT, our National Center on Elder Abuse is sponsoring a webinar, Upholding Justice for Older Americans on this World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: A National Conversation. The webinar will feature presentations by ACL Deputy Assistant Secretary for Aging Edwin Walker and speakers from the Department of Justice, Social Security Administration, Securities and Exchange Commission, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and ACL’s National Center on Law and Elder Rights. Each speaker will be discussing their elder justice initiatives and highlighting resources everyone can use. We’ve had an overwhelming response and registration is full, but a recording of the event will be available later this week on the NCEA’s website .

Also today, at 4pm EDT, the National Indigenous Elder Justice Initiative will be hosting an online panel on caring for elders during the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion will include experts from NIEJI, the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Adult Protection Services, and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe Office for the Aging. The event will be streamed live on NIEJI’s Facebook page .

Like everything else in our lives, WEAAD looks and feels a little different this year. Around the world, communities are finding creative ways to raise awareness and advance elder justice virtually. Webinars are taking the place of people gathering to hear speakers and panel discussions, and posting purple profile pictures is taking the place of wearing purple ribbons to show individual support.

What has not changed is our commitment to the principle that older adults are equal members of our communities, entitled to the same dignity, rights, and security that each of us expect at any age. Today, on WEAAD, I challenge all of us to think about what we can do in our own lives to uphold that principle. It is those everyday actions, combined with the work being done by organizations and governments around the world, that will make it possible for us to make that principle a universal truth.

Source: Administration for Community Living

Older Americans Month 2020: Make Your Mark

Wed, 27 May 2020 19:10:19 GMT

Around the nation, older adults make their marks every day as volunteers, employees, employers, parents, grandparents, mentors, and advocates. They offer their time, talents, and experience to the benefit of our communities.

For 57 years, Older Americans Month (OAM) has been a special time to recognize these contributions. Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) each May, OAM also provides resources to help older Americans stay healthy and independent, and materials to help communities support and celebrate their citizens.

This year’s OAM theme, Make Your Mark, highlights older adults’ unique and lasting contributions to their communities—everything from sharing a story with grandchildren to leaving a legacy of community action. In the spirit of this theme, here are a few ways to make your mark this May and all year long:

Volunteer your time. Local schools, shelters, food kitchens, and hospitals always need support. Help a neighbor by prepping a meal, picking up groceries, or giving them a ride. Or, take time to pass on your knowledge. Why not tutor a student who could use extra help in math, music, or science?
Share your story. There are so many ways to do this, from showing your grand kids around your old neighborhood to writing a book. Take a class and learn how to express yourself with the arts! Or, assemble a photo album of important moments in your life.
Get involved in your neighborhood. Join a homeowner or resident association, organize a block party, or sign up for a book club or other social group. Have a green thumb? Small projects like planting flowers in your yard or cleaning up the community park have a big impact.

Communities that support and include all their members are stronger! Please join the East Texas Area Agency on Aging in strengthening East Texas!

Source: Administration for Community Living

Gov. Abbott Proclaims May as Older Texans Month

Mon, 18 May 2020 20:32:56 GMT

There are more than 3.6 million Texans over the age of 65, and these people create the strong and prosperous foundation upon which our state is built. These great Texans enrich our culture by imparting wisdom upon younger generations and inspire our communities with their hard work, vision, sacrifice, and diverse experiences.

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission, area agencies on aging, local authorities, and a network of other community partners are committed to strengthening our communities by connecting with and supporting older

Texans, their families, and their caregivers, as well as acknowledging the valuable contributions of Texans who are older to our state.

We can bring together all generations of Texans to enhance the lives of older Texans in our communities. The changing needs of a growing number of Texans who are older can present new challenges, but our communities will rise to that challenge to ensure older Texans receive the support they need, whether that be in health care, employment, transportation, or other areas of life.

At this time, I encourage all younger Texans to recognize, support, and engage with their older peers, which will create richer communities and increase the vibrancy of our state as a whole.

Therefore, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim May 2020 to be Older Texans Month.

Source: Office of the Texas Governor, Greg Abbott

Aging in Place: Tips on Making Home Safe and Accessible

Fri, 08 May 2020 15:29:56 GMT

Living at home as you age requires careful consideration and planning. Learn how you can make some changes to help maintain your independence.

Share this infographic and help spread the word about ways you can age in place safely. Click on the social media icons above, or copy and paste the URL and post it to your account (Twitter, Facebook, etc.).

Source: National Institute on Aging

Older and Stuck at Home? Expert Advice on Fitness

Mon, 04 May 2020 15:52:14 GMT

Experts who study exercise and aging offer tips for older adults during the coronavirus lockdown.

When we asked readers what they want to know about exercise and the coronavirus, many of you wrote that you were concerned about how to exercise and maintain fitness if you or someone you love is older or has functional limitations, such as arthritis or joint replacements. Experts who study exercise and aging had a lot to say.

Among their suggestions: Soup-can dumbbells and indoor gardening might help older people who are new to working out to weather the physical effects of a prolonged coronavirus lockdown. Access to a stairwell also is a boon, they say, but even a hallway can be a route to sustained fitness.

Past science suggests that any health impacts from prolonged home confinement are likely to be greatest among older people. In multiple studies, when adults of any age become more inactive because of illness, injury or requests from scientists, they rapidly lose strength and endurance and develop early signs of insulin resistance and molecular changes related to muscle loss. In younger people, such physiological weakening typically reverses as soon as they start moving and exercising normally again. But in older people, the effects can linger and accelerate the onset of frailty.

Some experts have begun to worry that this scenario is playing out among older people during the coronavirus stay-at-home orders. “I think we’re seeing a slow-motion version of the kind of declines that usually occur when older people are hospitalized or bedridden,” says Dr. Louise Aronson, a professor of geriatrics and health at the University of California, San Francisco, and author of “Elderhood: Redefining Aging, Transforming Medicine, Reimagining Life.”

Dr. Aronson and other exercise scientists offered a variety of recommendations about the types and amounts of activities older people might try to complete in their buildings, homes, living rooms or even chairs during the lockdowns to stave off frailty and maintain their health. The expert responses proved to be uniformly reassuring, boiling down to the advice that all of us, regardless of age, move whenever and however we can, using whatever equipment we already have at hand.

More specifically, the experts suggest starting with a focus on aerobic conditioning, which, in practical terms, means walking, if at all possible, but not necessarily formal walks. Instead, Dr. Aronson says, try to build movement into ostensibly sedentary parts of your day.

“During a phone call,” she says, “walk around the room or up and down a hallway” (assuming you are not using a landline). When you watch television, get up during each commercial break and stroll from room to room. Or if you have access to a stairwell, she says, climb a flight or two of steps, which provides a brief but effective aerobic workout and some leg strengthening. Wear a mask and gloves if the stairs are public, of course, and hold tight to the banister.

Ideally, older people should aim to stroll from room to room or up and down a corridor at least three times a day, Dr. Aronson says. “It may be only two or three minutes of activity at a time, but it all counts and adds up.”

Look, too, for opportunities for simple, low-tech muscle workouts, the experts all say. Even skimpy, intermittent resistance training can help people avoid shedding muscle mass and strength during this lockdown.

Consider the wall squat, for instance, says Dr. James Gladstone, the chief of sports medicine at Mount Sinai Health Center in New York City. This exercise requires little expertise or equipment, apart from a wall, but robustly improves leg strength. Simply stand upright a foot or so from a wall, legs shoulder distance apart. Press your back against the wall and slide down until your thighs are almost parallel with the ground. (Stop earlier if your knees hurt.) Hold this simulated sit as long as you can. “If that means five seconds, fine,” Dr. Gladstone says. Slide back up the wall, rest a few seconds, and slide down to sit again.

For upper-body strengthening, raid the pantry, suggests Jennifer Copeland, a professor and director of the Active Healthy Aging lab at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada. Cans of soup or fluid-filled water bottles provide sufficient resistance for arm curls, she says. Grip those objects with your arms by your side, palms forward, and slowly bend your elbows to curl the can or bottle upward. Lower and repeat.

To strengthen shoulders, she says, partially fill an empty gallon milk jug with water, hold it with both hands in front of you, arms straight, and slowly raise it to about face height. Lower gently and repeat. You can do this exercise seated.

Similarly, to improve overall arm strength, re-seat yourself a few times, she says. In other words, when you start to get up from a chair, purposely sit back down and partially rise several additional times, using your arms for support and leverage.

And any time you visit the kitchen, slip in a few countertop push-ups, suggests K. Aleisha Fetters, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and author of the new book “Fitness Hacks for Over 50.” Position yourself a few feet away from the counter and lean toward it, hinging from the ankles, back straight. Grasp the edge with straight arms and bend and straighten your elbows. Complete as many modified push-ups as you can, she says, coinciding, perhaps with the length of time needed to warm your soup or coffee in the microwave. The idea, she says, is to “make fitness mesh seamlessly into your regular 24 hours.”

Even ordering seeds and starting an indoor herb garden, undemanding as that activity might seem, can “get people out of their chairs and standing and moving,” Dr. Copeland says. “Anything like that is good.”

Finally, if you prefer group activities or exercise variety, the internet is overflowing now with free exercise classes and instructional videos, Dr. Aronson says, many of them oriented toward older or inexperienced exercisers. Try a dance video if you feel vigorous and coordinated, she says, or tai chi for something gentler. Or Zoom a yoga class with friends, to stretch and reach together across the miles.

YouTube offers a variety of free home exercise programs:

Source: The New York Times

Economic Impact Payment Recommendations from Social Security Commissioner Andrew Saul

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 17:33:14 GMT

“The Treasury Department launched a new web tool allowing quick registration for Economic Impact Payments for eligible individuals who do not normally file a tax return, and also announced that it would begin making automatic payments. However, for some people receiving benefits from the Social Security Administration--specifically those who have dependent children under the age of 17--it is to their advantage to go to this portal to ensure they also get the $500 per dependent Economic Impact Payment. I encourage them to do this as soon as possible, and want to provide the following details:

People who receive Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability insurance benefits and who did not file a tax return for 2018 or 2019 and who have qualifying children under age 17 should now go to the IRS’s webpage at www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments to enter their information instead of waiting for their automatic $1,200 Economic Impact Payment. By taking proactive steps to enter information on the IRS website about them and their qualifying children, they will also receive the $500 per dependent child payment in addition to their $1,200 individual payment. If Social Security beneficiaries in this group do not provide their information to the IRS soon, they will have to wait to receive their $500 per qualifying child.

The same new guidance also applies to SSI recipients, especially those who have qualifying children under age 17. To receive the full amount of the Economic Impact Payments you and your family are eligible for, go to the IRS’s Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info page at www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments and provide information about yourself and your qualifying children.

Additionally, any new beneficiaries since January 1, 2020, of either Social Security or SSI benefits, who did not file a tax return for 2018 or 2019, will also need to go to the IRS’s Non-Filers website to enter their information.

Lastly, for Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability beneficiaries who do not have qualifying children under age 17, you do not need to take any action with the IRS. You will automatically receive your $1,200 economic impact payment directly from the IRS as long as you received an SSA-1099 for 2019.

For SSI recipients who do not have qualifying children under age 17, we continue to work closely with Treasury in our efforts to make these payments automatically. Please note that we will not consider Economic Impact Payments as income for SSI recipients, and the payments are excluded from resources for 12 months.

The eligibility requirements and other information about the Economic Impact Payments can be found here: www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payment-information-center. In addition, please continue to visit the IRS at www.irs.gov/coronavirus for the latest information.

We will continue to update Social Security’s COVID-19 web page at www.socialsecurity.gov/coronavirus/ as further details become available.”

Source: Social Security Administration

How to Support Older People during the Pandemic: 3 Tips

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 15:46:02 GMT

Keeping older people connected during COVID-19 is essential as we face weeks of social distancing.

People aged 60 and over are at the highest risk of experiencing significant health complications due to the COVID-19 outbreak. But the keys to preventing the spread of the coronavirus—quarantine and self-isolation—also have negative health impacts for their physical and mental health.

“Being socially isolated creates a health risk equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day,” says Rebecca Jackson Stoeckle, who directs EDC’s initiatives in health, technology, and aging. She adds that the pandemic will also cause interruptions in how many older adults access their health care needs.

For example, “If you are an older adult who routinely goes to the local senior center to get your blood pressure checked, and that center is now closed, how will you monitor your health?” Stoeckle asks.

As the world tries to adapt to the new social realities imposed by COVID-19, it is essential that older adults continue to feel connected to loved ones, friends, and caregivers around them. Here, Stoeckle offers three tips for making this happen.

1. Embrace technology

Stoeckle says that the fact that more and more older adults are embracing mobile phones, social media, and online tools is a boon at a time when physical proximity to loved ones can actually be harmful to older adults’ health. She encourages families to use technology tools to stay in touch with each other.

Regular routines can be altered to include technology. For instance, families can use Skype to enable an older relative to join them for dinner or read bedtime stories.

“I see this as an opportunity for bonding, especially if a grandchild offers to talk to their grandparents through setting up a Skype account so they can see one another,” says Stoeckle.

2. Use existing support networks to stay active

Many older adults already have structures that help support their physical and emotional health and wellness—including faith communities, neighborhood or exercise groups, or even weekly bridge games with friends. In a time of social distancing, these networks can help older adults continue to feel connected, even if the events themselves are not happening.

Stoeckle recommends that loved ones check in with older adults about their support networks, and help them find ways to stay connected to these groups and routines. Some religious and civic organizations may already have a plan in place for reaching out to older adults in their community. If so, make sure that the older adults know that too, and help them connect with whatever services may be available.

Informal support networks may be harder to replicate, but it’s not impossible. For example, there are plenty of fitness apps that can help older adults stay active, even if they are not going to their weekly swim or Zumba class. And while card games may be harder to do virtually, keeping the routine of getting together with friends—even if it is only over the phone or Skype—is still valuable.

“The most important things are the human-to-human touch and helping people who live alone,” says Stoeckle. “I think we all need to identify people in our building, in our neighborhood, or in our life who may be vulnerable, and we have to make sure they are in touch with someone on a regular basis.”

3. Connect, connect, connect

Finally, Stoeckle says that the most important way to support older adults during this time is to connect however possible. Whether it’s a video chat, phone call, written letter, or even a text, those messages are vital to fostering connectivity and community.

“In many independent living communities, many people have a phone buddy—someone they talk to every day,” she says. “I’m hearing a lot of people say that they are going to start doing that with their loved ones now.”

Stoeckle stresses that even simple connections can be powerful—and that phone calls and text messages may be easier to continue for the long term anyway, once the need for virtual get-togethers fades away.

“In times like this, we feel the value of human connection even more powerfully,” Stoeckle says.

Source: The Education Development Center

Beware of Stimulus Check Scams

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 16:31:31 GMT

Scammers use public health emergencies as opportunities for new fraud schemes. In fact, The Federal Trade Commission has already received complaints about stimulus checks scams.

As you may know, the government is preparing to distribute stimulus checks to help provide relief to households due to the COVID 19 crises.

Things you need to know:

Individuals with adjusted gross incomes of less than $75,000 should expect to receive $1200 with couples receiving $2400, and $500 per child.
The rate is adjusted if the gross income is more than $75,000. This will be based on your 2019 tax return, or 2018 if you haven’t filed yet for 2019. Please keep in mind that it is estimated to take weeks for these checks to be distributed.
Your stimulus check will be directly deposited into your bank account if funds you received from your 2018 tax return were directly deposited. Otherwise your paper check will arrive by mail. Social security beneficiaries will automatically receive a stimulus check via direct deposit. There is no need to complete any tax information. The IRS will automatically use what the Social Security Administration has on file.

Scammers are already using this opportunity to steal the money coming your way or your identity by getting access to your personal information. Keep in mind; no one has early access to these funds!

Beware of the following scams:
Fake Stimulus Checks. There are fake checks circulating right now. It will take at least three weeks for direct deposits to land and up to 10 weeks for paper checks to arrive by mail. If you receive any checks now, it is a fraud. Telltale signs are checks written in odd amounts or include cents, or a check that requires you to verify receipt online or by calling a number.
Social media, phone calls, or text messages claiming to get in touch with you. Scammers are reaching out to people online on social media platforms or by sending text messages with claims they are from the IRS or other government agency and are trying to get in touch with you regarding your stimulus check. Ignore/Delete these messages. The U.S. Government will never reach out to you via any social media platform or by text.
Scammers pose as a government agency and will send a link to this website or something similar for you to verify personal information. The government does not do this. The government already has the information they need and will not reach out to you for verification of your social security number or other personal identification.
Processing Fee. Scammers pose as the IRS or other government agency claiming you can receive your stimulus check faster if you pay a processing fee. There is no such thing and there is no way to speed up the IRS payment process.
The IRS will never call or email you to verify any personal information. This includes your social security number, bank account number, or anything that allows access to your identity.
As soon as you receive a call or email saying they are from the IRS or U.S. Treasury, hang up or delete it. These scammers are professional criminals and will use a variety of methods to steal your personal identification and your money.

Texas SMP is ready to provide you with the information you need to PROTECT yourself from Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse; DETECT potential fraud, errors, and abuse; and REPORT your concerns.

Your SMP can help with your questions, concerns, or complaints about potential fraud and abuse issues. It also can provide information and educational presentations.

Texas Senior Medicare Patrol 1-888-341-6187.

Statement from Social Security Commissioner Andrew Saul on COVID-19 Economic Impact Payments for Beneficiaries

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 19:31:10 GMT

“I want to provide an update to people who receive benefits from the Social Security Administration.

The Department of the Treasury (Treasury) announced on April 1 that Social Security beneficiaries who are not typically required to file tax returns will not need to file an abbreviated tax return to receive an economic impact payment. The IRS will use the information on the Form SSA-1099 to generate $1,200 economic impact payments to Social Security beneficiaries who did not file tax returns in 2018 or 2019.

Treasury, not Social Security, will make automatic payments to Social Security beneficiaries. Beneficiaries will receive these payments by direct deposit or by paper check, just as they would normally receive their Social Security benefits.

For updates from the IRS, visit www.irs.gov/coronavirus .

Note for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Recipients:

We are working closely with Treasury to address outstanding questions about our SSI recipients in an attempt to make the issuance of economic impact payments as quick and efficient as possible. We realize people are concerned, and the IRS will provide additional information at www.irs.gov/coronavirus when available. Please note that we will not consider economic impact payments as income for SSI recipients, and the payments are excluded from resources for 12 months.

Please note that we will not consider economic impact payments as income for SSI recipients, and the payments are excluded from resources for 12 months.

We will continue to update Social Security’s COVID-19 web page at www.socialsecurity.gov/coronavirus/ as further details become available.”

https://www.ssa.gov/news/press/releases/2020/#4-2020-1

Inspector General Warns Public About New Social Security Benefit Suspension Scam

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 14:36:43 GMT

The Inspector General of Social Security, Gail S. Ennis, is warning the public about fraudulent letters threatening suspension of Social Security benefits due to COVID-19 or coronavirus-related office closures. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will not suspend or discontinue benefits because their offices are closed.

The Social Security Office of the Inspector General has received reports that Social Security beneficiaries have received letters through the U.S. Mail stating their payments will be suspended or discontinued unless they call a phone number referenced in the letter. Scammers may then mislead beneficiaries into providing personal information or payment via retail gift cards, wire transfers, internet currency, or by mailing cash, to maintain regular benefit payments during this period of COVID-19 office closures.

As of Tuesday, March 17, 2020, local SSA offices are closed to the public due to COVID-19 concerns; however, Social Security employees continue to work. Social Security will not suspend or decrease Social Security benefit payments or Supplemental Security Income payments due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Any communication you receive that says SSA will do so is a scam, whether you receive it by letter, text, email, or phone call.

Social Security will never:

threaten you with benefit suspension, arrest, or other legal action unless you pay a fine or fee;
promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment;
require payment by retail gift card, cash, wire transfer, internet currency, or prepaid debit card;
demand secrecy from you in handling a Social Security-related problem; or
send official letters or reports containing personally identifiable information via email.

If you receive a letter, text, call or email that you believe to be suspicious, about an alleged problem with your Social Security number, account, or payments, hang up or do not respond. We encourage you to report Social Security scams using our dedicated online form, at https://oig.ssa.gov . Please share this information with your friends and family, to help spread awareness about Social Security scams.

See media advisory on the Inspector General's website .

Fraud Surrounding COVID-19 is Increasing

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 18:37:05 GMT

As the number of people and communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic grows, so do the scams associated with it. Scammers use public health emergencies as opportunities for new fraud schemes, and because older adults are at greater risk for serious illness from COVID-19, they may target older populations.

“There is currently no FDA-approved vaccine for COVID-19 and although there may be treatments for symptoms, there is no ‘cure.’ However, scammers often use fear-based tactics to convince people that a vaccine or cure is now being offered,” said Jennifer Salazar, Program Director of the Texas Senior Medicare Patrol.

It’s also important to remember that although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other public health officials may contact you if they believe you may have been exposed to the virus, they will not need to ask you for insurance or financial information.

The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) recommends that Medicare beneficiaries:

Contact your own doctor if you are experiencing potential symptoms of COVID-19.
Do not give out your Medicare number, Social Security number, or personal information in response to unsolicited calls, texts, emails, home visits, or booths at health fairs and other public venues. If your personal information is compromised, it may be used in other fraud schemes as well.
Be suspicious of anyone going door-to-door to offer free coronavirus or COVID-19 testing, supplies, or treatments.
Carefully review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB), looking for errors or claims for products or services that weren’t received.
Follow the instructions of your state or local government for other actions you should be taking in response to COVID-19.
Contact your local SMP for help. SMPs empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report health care fraud, errors, and abuse.

The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is ready to provide you with the information you need to PROTECT yourself from Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse; DETECT potential fraud, errors, and abuse; and REPORT your concerns. SMPs help educate and empower Medicare beneficiaries in the fight against health care fraud. Your SMP can help you with your questions , concerns, or complaints about potential fraud and abuse issues. It also provides information and educational presentations .

Ombudsman Questions and Answers about COVID-19

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 21:33:47 GMT

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released revised and expanded

Accessible PDF

Accessible PDF guidance for nursing homes on responding to COVID-19. This letter provides detailed direction on new visitor restrictions imposed to help nursing homes control and prevent the spread of infection.

Residents still have the right to access the Ombudsman program.
Their access should be restricted per the guidance above (except in compassionate care situations), however, facilities may review this on a case by case basis.
If in-person access is not available due to infection control concerns, facilities need to facilitate resident communication (by phone or other format) with the Ombudsman program or any other entity listed in 42 CFR § 483.10(f)(4)(i

Questions and Answers

Can an ombudsman visit a nursing facility or assisted living facility (ALF)?

No. All volunteers and staff are temporarily restricted from making an onsite facility visit. In special circumstances, an MLO may obtain approval from the State Ombudsman to conduct a facility visit to investigate a complaint.

How long are ombudsman visits restricted?

The restriction began on Friday, March 13, and will extend until at least April 15, 2020. The State Ombudsman will extend this time frame if necessary for the health and safety of LTC facility residents.

Should I respond to complaints differently right now?

Yes, some complaints must be reprioritized. Inform the complainant that your ability to work to resolve a complaint is temporarily limited to telephone and email contact with facility staff. Explain that facilities are instructed to prioritize issues related to infection control and abuse, and therefore, these are the issues you are also prioritizing. See guidance in the Complaint Procedures section of this document.

How does an ombudsman work to resolve complaints during this time?

Complaint intake, investigation, and resolution must be conducted by phone, email, and video calls such as FaceTime, Skype, and Duo. Specific procedures for this work are described in the “complaint procedures” section of this document.

What information should I give to residents, their family members, and other concerned citizens?

For information about COVID-19 and LTC facility operations, refer to the COVID-19 sections of these site:

Click here more information and to read the full Ombudsman Questions and Answers about COVID-19.

Accessible PDF

Celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 16:34:50 GMT

Message From the Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities

Each March, we take time to recognize Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month. This is an opportunity to raise awareness of the integral role people with developmental disabilities play in our society, and to work to further the cause of inclusion. More than 400,000 Texans are diagnosed with a developmental disability, and it is vital we continue to work together to make our state more inclusive and accessible for our fellow Texans.

Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation recognizing DD Awareness Month, noting, "people with developmental disabilities have unique abilities and experiences that contribute to our state's rich diversity and heritage, just like all Texans [and Texas] is a stronger place when people of all abilities are included in community life." Study after study has shown how when you design for disability — you design for all. This can involve including people with disabilities in the general workforce and providing them with greater economic opportunity, through including students with developmental disabilities in the classroom with their non-disabled peers and increasing their chances to achieve their full academic potential, or simply enabling people with developmental disabilities to live in the greater community.

One easy suggestion for fostering inclusive communities is to pay attention to the words we use when talking with and about other people. Spread the Word (previously Spread the Word to End the Word) is celebrated on March 4th, and asks people to pledge to not use the r-word . Now in its eleventh year, Spread the Word asks everyone to pledge to spread the word about inclusion — by creating socially inclusive places to learn, work, and live we can remind everyone that people with developmental disabilities are valued members of society.

Language is powerful, so it is important to be respectful and thoughtful whether you're talking to your neighbor or posting on social media. People First Language puts the person before the disability — instead of saying "a disabled person" you say "a person with a disability." When in doubt, ask the person how they prefer to be identified! Be sure to take the Pledge for Inclusion and help spread the word about Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

See the Governor's Proclamation - https://gov.texas.gov/uploads/files/organization/disabilities/2020-Developmental-Disabilities-Awareness-Month.pdf

Help Us Choose the 2020 REACH Logo!

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 20:43:56 GMT

CAST YOUR VOTE

REACH 2020 w ill be held October 7-8, 2020 in Longview, Texas!

The Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving and Healthcare (REACH) Conference is a collaborative effort to provide educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities for professionals, caregivers, and anyone interested in Aging issues. Taking into consideration the diversity of aging concerns, we have attempted to include local, regional, and state service providers and educators to address a variety of topics that may be of interest to anyone who works with older adults, their caregivers, or their families.

Help us choose the REACH 2020 logo. Follow the link below to cast your vote!

Healthy Aging and Social engAGEment

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 19:18:55 GMT

Understanding Loneliness In Older Adults — And Tailoring A Solution

For years, Dr. Linda Fried offered older patients who complained of being lonely what seemed to be sensible guidance. “Go out and find something that matters to you,” she would say.

But her well-meant advice didn’t work most of the time. What patients really wanted were close relationships with people they care about, satisfying social roles and a sense that their lives have value. And this wasn’t easy to find.

We need “new societal institutions that bring meaning and purpose” to older adults’ lives, Fried recently told a committee of the National Academies of Sciences investigating loneliness and social isolation among older adults. (Fried is a geriatrician and dean of the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University.)

The committee’s deliberations come amid growing interest in the topic. Four surveys (by Cigna, AARP, the Kaiser Family Foundation and the University of Michigan) have examined the extent of loneliness and social isolation in older adults in the past year. And health insurers, health care systems, senior housing operators and social service agencies are launching or expanding initiatives. (Kaiser Health News is an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation.)

Notably, Anthem Inc. is planning a national rollout to Medicare Advantage plans of a program addressing loneliness developed by its subsidiary CareMore Health, according to Robin Caruso, CareMore’s chief togetherness officer. UnitedHealthcare is making health navigators available to Medicare Advantage members at risk for social isolation. And Kaiser Permanente is starting a pilot program that will refer lonely or isolated older adults in its Northwest region to community services, with plans to eventually bring it to other regions, according to Lucy Savitz, vice president of health research at Kaiser Permanente Northwest. (KHN is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente.)

The effectiveness of these programs and others remains to be seen. Few have been rigorously evaluated, and many assume increased social interaction will go a long way toward alleviating older adults’ distress at not having meaningful relationships. But that isn’t necessarily the case.

“Assuaging loneliness is not just about having random human contact; it’s about the quality of that contact and who you’re having contact with,” said Dr. Vyjeyanthi Periyakoil, an associate professor of medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine.

A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work for older adults, she and other experts agreed. Instead, varied approaches that recognize the different degrees, types and root causes of loneliness are needed.

*Blog courtesy of The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults - January 2020 engAGED Newsletter, Article from Kaiser Health News (KHN)

Beverly Brown Selected for the N4A Leader Institute

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 21:25:25 GMT

We are pleased to announce that Beverly Brown, Associate Director of Aging, has been selected to attend the 13th Annual National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (N4A) Leadership Institute . There are 628 Area Agencies on Aging across the country. Only a select few leaders are selected to partake in these classes each year. Beverly will be the first from East Texas to attend the N4A Leadership Institute.

“I am greatly humbled and honored to have been selected as a participant in the n4a Leadership Institute. It has been so rewarding to serve seniors in our East Texas Community. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in a leadership position with East Texas Area Agency on Aging. ,” said Brown. "I offer my sincere gratitude to Bettye Mitchell, ETCOG Director of Aging Programs and David Cleveland, ETCOG Executive Director for their continued support and encouragement to attend this prestigious leadership institute."

The N4A Leadership Institute allows the Aging Network to tap into the full potential of its diverse and passionate leaders to navigate the changing landscape. 

“I am so very excited for Beverly and thrilled that she will represent our region and the state,” said Director of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas, Bettye Mitchell.

During this session attendees complete a leadership self-assessment, learn new ways to communicate effectively, develop a toolbox for creative problem-solving and planning as well as a chance to network with peers and leaders from the aging network.

Each year attendees develop new skills to:

Increase effectiveness when working with teams and partners

Bring intention and commitment to addressing challenges

Act strategically and with confidence

Stay refreshed and energized for the long-haul

Attendees will engage in an interactive, customized and highly effective training experience led by Doug Krug. According to the N4A website , Doug Krug, co-founder of Enlightened Leadership Solutions and author of The Missing Piece in Leadership, personally leads this breakthrough transformation-in-thinking workshop process, which was part of the MBA Program at Johns Hopkins University for 15 years.

This year’s N4A Leadership Institute will be February 19 -21 and is open to N4A members only.

Area Agency on Aging is Seeking Volunteers for the Ombudsman Program

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 17:05:59 GMT

ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging program has immediate need for warm-hearted volunteers to help residents of nursing and assisted living facilities throughout East Texas to serve as Ombudsmen volunteers. Ombudsmen advocate for residents’ rights including, but not limited to, dependable and consistent care and an environment that promotes the residents’ dignity, self-determination, and communication.

Interested volunteers may contact the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas, at 800-442-8845 or e-mail Valerie Rushing at Valerie.Rushing@etcog.org for more information.

Call for Volunteers for the Ombudsman Program

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 21:08:41 GMT

Volunteers Needed to Visit Seniors in Long-Term Care Facilities to Investigate Complaints, Advocate for Patient Rights

East Texas Area Agency on Aging Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is seeking volunteers to advocate for residents living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Volunteer ombudsmen visit residents, identify and investigate complaints, and educate residents, families, and facility staff on protecting the health, safety, welfare, and rights of individuals living in long-term care settings. Ombudsman services are free and confidential.

Volunteers must be at least 18-years old and complete a free, 36-hour training course that includes classroom, self-study and in-facility training. No prior experience is required. Hours are flexible and determined by each volunteer.

If you have one hour per week to make a difference in someone’s life, please contact Valerie Rushing at 903-218-6524 or Valerie.Rushing@etcog.org to register for the course.

Join us on November 7th for “Who Cares? We do!” a free conference on caregiver needs, services and resources

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 14:59:33 GMT

In recognition of National Family Caregivers Month, ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging of East Texas has joined with the St. Louis Baptist Church of Tyler’s Comfort and Care Ministry to bring a free conference for caregivers, “Who cares? We do!” . The conference is designed to offer caregivers – families and individuals in East Texas caring for loved ones with chronic, disabling health conditions – with information and resources needed to carry out their role as caregiver. The conference will include presentations from local experts on Opioid Misuse Prevention, Medicare Enrollment, Services in the Aging Network, and featured presentations, “What Makes the Impossible, Possible,” from care recipient, Wendell Jeffery, and “Lessons Learned from Ms. Jessie & Me,” from motivational speaker, Lawandra Smith.

“As loved ones age, debilitating disease, chronic health conditions or simple frailty can arise in a family, and one may end up a caregiver, sometimes unexpectedly,” said ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging Director, Bettye Mitchell. “While some employ paid providers, most rely on assistance from families, friends and neighbors, who soon become “on call" 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We see the role stress plays in the lives of family caregivers who are trying to do too much with too few resources. This conference is here to support and guide individuals in their caregiving role.”

“Who cares? We do!” Caregivers Conference will be held on Thursday, November 7th, at the St. Louis Baptist Church located at 4000 Frankston Hwy., from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Lunch will be provided.

“Caregivers are a gift of honor,” says Rev. Ralph E. Caraway, Sr., senior pastor of the St. Louis Baptist Church. “St. Louis’ Comfort and Care Ministry and I are dedicated to honoring those who give so much of themselves.”

Pre-registration is needed by Tuesday, November 6th to participate. For reservations, please call (903) 595-5212 or email Juanita.Padron@etcog.org .

We Offer Free Benefits Counseling Assistance for Open Enrollment

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 20:52:36 GMT

Medicare Open Enrollment takes place from October 15 to December 7 and is the time of year when people with Medicare can make unrestricted changes to their coverage options. Our Area Agency on Aging staff are here to help!

Our Certified Benefits Counselors may not recommend a specific policy or plan, but can provide factual, unbiased information and assistance to help seniors make their choice of coverage.

Are you looking for:

► Extra Help on prescriptions

► Help identifying which plan offers lower copays

► A new plan with the same doctor

For in-depth or one-on-one counseling, individuals may call to make an appointment at 1-800-442-8845.

Caregiving Conference Set for November 7th

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 20:44:29 GMT

In recognition of National Family Caregivers Month, the St. Louis Baptist Church Comfort and Care Ministry and ETCOG's Area Agency on Aging of East Texas bring a FREE conference for caregivers, Who cares? We do!

Hear the personal testimony, What Makes the Impossible, Possible, from care recipient, Wendell Jeffery, and Motivational Speaker, Lawandra Smith, presenting Lessons Learned from Ms. Jessie & Me, as well as presentations on Opiod Misuse Prevention, Medicare and YOU, and Resources in the Aging Network.

This Conference is designed to offer caregivers – families and individuals in East Texas caring for loved ones with chronic, disabling health conditions – with information and resources needed to carry out this very important work.

TO REGISTER

Call 903-595-5212 or email Juanita Padron

Hundreds Who Work with Seniors Will Join Us at Annual REACH Conference

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 15:22:13 GMT

October 2 -3, 2019 at Maude Cobb Activity Center in Longview

Approximately 350 nursing facility administrators, practitioners, caregivers and those who work with the senior population will receive training October 2 and 3, 2019, at the 28th Annual REACH Conference (Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving and Healthcare) at Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center in Longview. The Conference is hosted each year by the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) which is administered by the East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) .

The conference, themed “Playing to Win!” features distinguished speakers, dynamic panel discussions, and various networking opportunities.

“Once again, there is a distinguished line-up of speakers set to take the stage and captivate the audience at this two-day event. Taking into consideration the diversity of aging concerns, we have attempted to include local, state and national service providers and educators to address a variety of topics that may be of interest to anyone who works with older adults, their caregivers, or their families,” says Bettye Mitchell, Director of Aging Programs for the Area Agency on Aging.

Special keynote presentations include: LaDonna Gatlin – Tune Up Your Life , sister of the legendary country stars The Gatlin Brothers, LaDonna delivers solid content that equips audiences to “reach for the high notes” in life; Justin Jones-Fosu -Your WHY matters NOW , Justin will challenge the audience to identify or reconnect with their purpose and live it out now; Carmen Irwin – Medicare 2020 , bringing policy, program and reimbursement updates for the Medicare program; Mark and Daniel Seguin – Cyber Security Training , offering techniques to drastically reduce chances of a costly data breach; Bettye Mitchell and Beverly J. Brown of the Area Agency on Aging – Come Let’s Talk: Senior Needs in Our Community , opening the dialogue on service delivery needs of our older adults, particularly in the most rural and remote communities in the region. Attendees will have the opportunity to choose from over 30 courses and achieve CEU credits at the conference.

REACH is partially funded by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. For more information, call the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas at (903) 218-6500 or visit our website at www.aaa-reachconference.org .

Media Contact:

Lindsay Vanderbilt

(903) 218-6442