Latest news with #AreaAgencyonAging
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Lackawanna County recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
SCRANTON — As part of annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Lackawanna County on Friday held an event to highlight the ways older adults increasingly experience abuse, neglect and financial exploitation, locally and beyond. The event at the county government center downtown also recognized and thanked the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging and other local organizations for their efforts to prevent elder abuse and assist victims of it. Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich, who was a director of the county's Area Agency on Aging, lauded his former department. 'These individuals that go out each and every day and make sure that older adults are protected from abuse, exploitation and neglect are really doing some amazing things,' Kavulich told a crowd of about 35 people. Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich, at podium at right, and who was a former director of the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging, speaks Friday, June 13, 2025 at a World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event at the Lackawanna County Government Center in Scranton. (JIM LOCKWOOD / STAFF PHOTO) World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which is recognized annually June 15, aims to raise awareness about older adults experiencing some form of mistreatment, and to have the public better understand the problem, as well as learn ways to identify, address and prevent it. Elder abuse can take many forms, including neglect, financial exploitation and emotional, sexual or physical harm. It can occur in various settings, including homes, public places and nursing, personal-care or assisted-living centers. It can involve family members, caregivers, health care professionals or strangers. Financial exploitation, whether done by a family member, a scam or someone else, has now become the largest category of elder abuse in the state, Kavulich said. 'This is something we need to talk about all the time. This is something that we need to make our neighbors aware of. This is something that we need to make sure is at the forefront of the conversation, because once those resources are gone, individuals cannot get it back,' Kavulich said. Pennsylvania is home to 3.4 million older adults, the fifth-highest total in the nation, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. As director of the county Area Agency on Aging, Kavulich led the development of the Older Adult Advocacy Center at Telespond Senior Services, 1200 Saginaw St. in Scranton. Described as the first of its kind in Pennsylvania, this center represents a national-level model of integrating services regarding elder mistreatment. It brings together medical, behavioral, legal and judicial services while offering temporary housing for victims as a plan is developed to meet their needs. Last month, Kavulich and local officials cut the ribbon on the Older Adult Advocacy Center. Other organizations that participated in Friday's event and received certificates of recognition and the first Jack T. Harte Awards 'for providing exceptional resources for older adults experiencing abuse, neglect or exploitation' included Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, Telespond Senior Services, the Wright Center, Scranton Counseling Center, and the Lackawanna County Office of Drug and Alcohol Programs. Other speakers included current county Area Agency on Aging Director Sara McDonald and Assistant Director Kerri Anzulewicz, and Lackawanna County Commissioners Chris Chermak and Bill Gaughan. Gaughan noted that victims of elder abuse are parents, grandparents and neighbors, 'and their pain is real.' 'To turn a blind eye is to betray our shared humanity. But I'm proud to say that here in Lackawanna County, we do not turn away. Here, we act, we care and we protect. And we do so thanks in no small part to the remarkable team at the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging,' Gaughan said. Chermak also said the Area Agency on Aging's elder abuse protective services team 'is a beacon of hope' that last year investigated 1,475 reports of elder abuse and provided critical support and resources to those in need, and set a national standard with Telespond. 'Whether physical, emotional, financial or neglect, elder abuse strips our seniors of the dignity and safety they deserve,' Chermak said. Lackawanna County Commissioners Bil Gaughan and Chris Chermak speak during the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day program in the Commissioners Board Room in the Goverment Center in Scranton Friday. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) To report suspected elder abuse, whether at home or in a care facility, call the statewide Elder Abuse Hotline at 1-800-490-8505. * Director for the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging Sara McDonald introduces a speaker in the Commissioners Board Room in the county Government Center in Scranton Friday, June 13, 2025. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) * Pennsylvania Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich joins the Lackawanna County Commissioners and, seated from left, Protective Services Supervisors Emily Stout and Lindsey Stevens, Protective Services Administrator Kristina Fiore, Deputy Director for the Area Agency on Aging Kerri Anzulewicz and Director for the Area Agency on Aging Sara McDonald for the Elder Abuse Awareness program in the Commissioners Board Room in the Goverment Center in Scranton Friday. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) * Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging pamphlets on elder abuse on display Friday, June 13, 2025 at a World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event at the Lackawanna County Government Center in Scranton. (JIM LOCKWOOD / STAFF PHOTO) Show Caption 1 of 3 Director for the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging Sara McDonald introduces a speaker in the Commissioners Board Room in the county Government Center in Scranton Friday, June 13, 2025. (SEAN MCKEAG / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER) Expand
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Senior farmers market voucher distributions cancelled
(WBRE/WYOU) — According to the Area Agency on Aging, the first two Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) voucher distribution events have been cancelled. The announcement comes because the agency has not yet received the vouchers. It was previously revealed that federal funding for the vouchers has been cut. The first two Luzerne/Wyoming County distribution events have been cancelled, including the June 3 event at Misericordia University's MacDowell Hall and the June 5 Kingston Active Adult Center. Woman shot by police while allegedly attacking civilian In Lackawanna County alone, 38,000 farmers market vouchers were requested by the county's agency on aging, the agency in charge of distributing them. Due to the cuts to federal spending, they'll only be getting around 29,000. Under the State Department of Agriculture program, residents over 60 who fall within the program's income requirements are eligible to receive up to five $5 vouchers each to spend at local farmers' markets. For the full list of voucher distribution dates, visit the Luzerne County Area Agency on Aging. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
State agency reverses Tarrant County Meals on Wheels funding cut
The Brief Tarrant County Meals on Wheels will no longer face $450,000 in funding cuts. The cut would have affected five programs that assisted the organization's clients. The Tarrant County operation is unsure why the cut was reversed by the state. TARRANT COUNTY, Texas - State Health and Human Services Department officials have reversed course on a $450,000 funding cut to Tarrant County Meals on Wheels. It would have cut five services, including a program called "Home Meds" that aimed to keep any harmful food or drug reactions among clients receiving meals at bay. Other services to be impacted would have included nutrition counseling, social reassurance, participant assessment and transportation. The new cut would have been in addition to a $1.6 million cut from October, as well as confusion caused by federal funding freezes earlier this year. Funding cut reversal What they're saying We spoke with Philip Gonzalez, a spokesperson for Tarrant County Meals on Wheels, about the reversal. "We really don't know the heart of why it happened, it just did," Gonzalez said. "But at the same time, we're glad whoever was in charge decided to say, 'hey, there's a lot of people going to be affected by this, and let's go ahead and restore it and make sure the seniors, especially here in Tarrant County, are taken care of.'" Gonzalez said the organization had no control over the potential loss of the funding, which he says would have affected multiple services, including wellness check-ins and client transportation to and from activity centers. "The transportation issue of getting all of our seniors to our activity centers where they can socialize and get that meal every day, specifically those two," Gonzalez said. "There were five total, but we were really concerned about all five. It would have been a tremendous setback." Why the change? The Tarrant County operation received communication on Monday from the Area Agency on Aging, the entity that disperses the federal funding which is funneled through the state. There's not much clarity about why federal funding was restored, but the notice does confirm the following: "They will proceed with the full release of FY2025 funding to ensure services continue without interruption […] While the exact timing of the funding release remains uncertain, we've been informed that more details will be available in the coming weeks." What you can do For information on how you can volunteer with Tarrant County Meals on Wheels, click here. The Source Information for this article comes from Tarrant County Meals on Wheels and the Area Agency on Aging.
Chicago Tribune
28-04-2025
- Health
- Chicago Tribune
Column: Advocates warn proposed Trump budget cuts and agency changes put senior services at risk
Diane Slezak, president and CEO of AgeOptions, has worked in the aging services sector helping to meet the needs of seniors for nearly 50 years. 'I have never encountered a moment as challenging and concerning as the one we face now,' she said. Slezak and other advocates are worried about the risks facing seniors posed by the Trump administration proposed $880 billion cuts to Medicaid and other U.S. Department of Health and Human Services funding, massive job cuts and other changes affecting programs that have long served the elderly. AgeOptions is the Area Agency on Aging for suburban Cook County. That includes the south suburbs where more than 188,000 adults ages 60 and older reside. The nonprofit partners with agencies to connect older adults and caregivers with resources and services and funds senior services programs. In recent weeks, the Trump administration announced the Health and Human Services Department was slashing 10,000 jobs. That included cutting half of the staff at the Administration for Community Living, responsible for implementing the Older Americans Act. The act supports a range of health and health-related social services programs for adults ages 60 and older and individuals with disabilities to help them live independently. That includes home-delivered and congregate meals programs, transportation to medical appointments, personal care assistance, respite care for caregivers, health and wellness programs, falls prevention and elder abuse prevention programs and other health and wellness programs. The agency is also responsible for supporting the funding for more than 600 area agencies on aging nationwide, Slezak noted. In Fiscal Year 2024, Illinois agencies funded under the Older Americans Act assisted 478,113 older adults and caregivers, including 32,551 in Chicago's south suburbs served by AgeOptions, according to Slezak. As part of the Trump administration's planned restructuring of the Health and Human Services, Older Americans Act programs will be moved to other agencies, and the proposed department budget calls for eliminating funding for some programs including senior health promotion and disease prevention programs, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, Adult Protective Services support, and other elder abuse, neglect and exploitation efforts, notes the National Council on Aging. It would also no longer fund the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which helps seniors and others with their heating and electricity bills, Aging and Disability Resource Centers and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, which provides counseling to help seniors enrolling in Medicare. Older Americans Act-funded programs play a vital role and help seniors avoid more costly nursing home care, advocates note. For example, according to Meals on Wheels America, the cost of home-delivered meals for one senior for the entire year is $2,602 while the cost of one day of hospital care is $2,754 and for 10 days in a long-term care facility, the cost is $2,070. The proposed changes are occurring at a time when the need for senior services is growing and when programs have long been underfunded, said Slezak. The population of seniors is set to reach 91 million nationally by 2030, according to Meals on Wheels America, which also notes one in two older adults living alone lack the income to pay for basic needs and 12 million older adults face financial challenges that impact their ability to age at home. From 2010 to 2013, the number of adults ages 60 and older in the southern townships increased by more than 42,000 while the number younger than that dropped by more than 64,000, she said. 'Older Americans are one of the most rapidly growing populations,' said Slezak. 'We have in Illinois 25% of the population now over age of 60. Funding needs to be increased and not paused or terminated.' The restructuring at Health and Human Services included laying off 10 Administration for Community Living regional administrators and veteran career staff in key roles along with experts in budgeting, grants, policy, evaluation and communications, and is disrupting the agency's functions, Slezak said. The changes, including fragmenting services into different departments, will make them less efficient and effective, she stressed. She worries seniors will fall through the cracks. She's also concerned about any potential slowdown in funding for agencies that provide services to seniors. She cited a recent USAging survey that noted 38% of agencies would have to reduce services within two weeks of a funding disruption. According to AgeOptions, statewide, without Older Americans Act funding, some of the monthly losses would include: 183,209 fewer home-delivered meals 154,971 fewer congregate meals served 30,264 fewer contacts providing information, assistance and outreach 14,933 fewer rides provided to older adults 'That is just unimaginable,' Slezak said. 'It's just unfathomable. I can't even think about it.' The state would never be able to make up for that funding, she said. Medicaid provides health care coverage for 654,000 people ages 50 and over in Illinois, according to AARP. Elaine Grande, executive director of Palos Heights-based eldercare services provider Pathlights, said the organization is closely monitoring the proposed cuts and changes and said it's essential to raise awareness on the proposed cuts 'and just how detrimental they could be for older adults in our communities. 'At Pathlights, we remain committed to advocating for older adults, providing accurate information, and emphasizing the critical importance of programs like Medicaid, SHIP and those under the Older Americans Act.' The statewide aging network is working together to build awareness, advocate for services and ensure the needs of older adults are recognized and met, she said. 'I'm very concerned about all the cuts and all the changes,' said U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, a Democrat from Matteson. 'That puts services and care for older Americans and people with disabilities at risk.' Earlier this month, Kelly unsuccessfully sought to meet with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for an explanation on recent layoffs and the restructuring. She and other senior advocates note cuts in staffing at the Social Security Administration are also negatively affecting seniors with reports of people calling the agency and having to wait four and five hours to reach anyone to get help with services. Constituents have voiced their concerns, said Kelly, who noted two town halls she held recently attracted 11,000 and 13,000 people. 'Seniors, their children and grandchildren, everybody is concerned,' she said. 'They're worried about what's going to happen to services.' While Democrats are limited in what they can do legislatively to block the proposed changes given Republican majorities in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate, Kelly praised lawsuits filed by advocates and intervention by the courts. Those being negatively affected and or opposed to the cuts and changes must speak up, said Kelly. 'This is not the time to stay on the sidelines,' she said. She encouraged people to contact their senators and representatives. The area agencies on aging in Illinois are organizing a statewide advocacy day on May 28 to elevate the importance of senior services and the critical role they play in the lives of older adults across the state, said Grande. For more advocacy information visit AgeOptions and click on the advocacy tab.
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
I'm 38, a single dad and primary caregiver to my mom — how do I support everyone without going broke?
A 38-year-old father is navigating an all-too-common balancing act of full-time work, single parenting and, now, caregiving for his mother. After a fall and early signs of dementia, his 73-year-old mom moved in. While he's not in a financial crisis, the pressure is mounting. Between work, caring for his 6-year-old son and supporting his mom, he's not sure how he'll manage the situation. On the financial side, he has to decide whether he should rent or sell his mom's vacant condo. And emotionally, he needs advice on how to set boundaries with his mother without feeling guilty. He's also feeling isolated as most of his friends aren't in his situation, yet. I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now become a landlord for as little as $100 — and no, you don't have to deal with tenants or fix freezers. Here's how Nervous about the stock market in 2025? Find out how you can access this $1B private real estate fund (with as little as $10) His story isn't unique. According to the Pew Research Center, a third of all Americans — and half of Americans in their 40s — are finding themselves part of the 'sandwich generation' that cares for both children and parents at the same time. Here's what to know if you're in a similar spot. Caring for a parent with early-stage dementia can be overwhelming — but you don't have to figure it out alone. The first step is to tap into local, state and federal resources that can help reduce both your workload and out-of-pocket costs. Start by contacting your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Every state has one, and these agencies can help you build a care plan, connect you with adult day programs and explain what in-home services might be available. You can search for yours at or by calling 1-800-677-1116. Next, research Medicaid and Medicare programs. (Medicare helps aging Americans while Medicaid helps low-income Americans — your parents may be eligible for one or both.) The Medicaid waiver program, for example, can help cover in-home care costs. Some of these programs even allow family members to be compensated for caregiving, which could help if you decide to reduce your hours or shift your work schedule in the future. Searching "Medicaid waiver programs [your state]" should point you in the right direction. If you're considering selling or renting your mom's vacant condo to fund care, consult with an elder law attorney first. Medicaid has strict rules about assets and income, and the timing of a sale could affect eligibility and costs. An attorney can also help with important legal documents, like advance care directives or a power of attorney — both crucial while your mom is still in the early stages of cognitive decline. Finally, organizations like the Alzheimer's Association and AARP offer free resources, like caregiver support groups, toolkits and financial guides, that can help you understand what to expect as your mom's needs evolve. These resources can help you connect with others in similar situations — and remind you that you're not alone. Read more: This hedge fund legend warns US stock market will crash a stunning 80% — claims 'Armageddon' is coming. Don't believe him? He earned 4,144% during COVID. Here's 3 ways to protect yourself As a caregiver and a parent, it's easy to put yourself last. But just like on a plane, where we're directed to put on our own oxygen mask before assisting others, protecting your financial stability is key. It's not just for your own future, but also for your ability to keep supporting your family. Start by building a simple monthly budget that reflects your new reality. Include fixed expenses (like your mortgage), flexible spending (like groceries), and expected caregiving costs. Track these for a few months to get a clear picture of where you may need to adjust. Try to build your emergency fund slowly and consistently. The standard recommendation is saving three to six months of expenses — but your needs may be more depending on your caregiving responsibilities. Even setting aside $50 a month can help you weather unexpected costs without draining savings. If your mom's condo eventually generates rental income, consider earmarking part of that toward this fund. The IRS may allow you to claim your parent as a dependent if you provide more than half of their financial support, and you might also qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit if you're paying for adult day services. A tax professional can help you find benefits you might be eligible for. When it comes to long-term planning, remember that you don't have to do it alone. A fee-only financial advisor or a local nonprofit that offers free financial counseling can help you weigh the pros and cons of selling assets, applying for Medicaid and balancing short-term expenses with retirement savings. Remember, protecting your financial and mental health is not selfish — it's essential. Communicate clearly with other family members (if any are involved), and don't be afraid to ask for help or delegate responsibilities. Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint, so try to build a plan that works for everyone — including you. Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan 'works every single time' to kill debt, get rich in America — and that 'anyone' can do it Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead Here are 5 'must have' items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you? 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