Bay Area Senior Advocates

January 2012 Commission Report

2012-01-24T11:54:00.001-08:00

Action Alert: Reauthorize OAA!

2011-12-19T11:02:00.001-08:00

December 15, 2011

Send a loud message:
"We Must Reauthorize the Older Americans Act!"

The Older Americans' Act (OAA) is supposed to be reauthorized in 2011 but reauthorization has yet to happen. With every day that passes the future of critical programs that serve seniors is more and more uncertain.

Send a message to your member(s) of Congress and tell them we must reauthorize the OAA.

Take action now.

Since 1965, the OAA has provided services and supports that improve seniors' lives whether they are in their own homes or nursing homes. These include services such as meals, health programs, and transportation that keep older adults in their homes; ombudsman program services that protect older adults in long- term care facilities; and elder prevention and legal services that protect seniors no matter where they live.

PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR RECEIPTS - THIS IS IMPORTANT

2011-12-08T11:31:00.001-08:00

Subject: PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR RECEIPTS - THIS IS IMPORTANT


WITH THE CHRISTMAS SEASON COMING UP THIS IS REALLY IMPORTANT. PLEASE PASS THIS ALONG!!!!!

    CHECK YOUR RECEIPTS BEFORE LEAVING ANY CASHIER'S   STATION!!!!!

THIS   COULD HAPPEN ANYWHERE.


It happened at Wal-Mart (Supercenter Store   #1279,
10411 N Freeway 45, Houston, TX 77037 a month ago.

I bought a bunch of stuff, over $150, & I glanced at my receipt as the cashier was handing me the bags. I saw a cash-back of $40. I told her I   didn't request a cash back & to delete it.

She said I'd have to take the $40 because she couldn't delete it. I told her to call a   supervisor.

Supervisor came & said I'd have to take it! I said NO! Taking the $40 would be a cash advance against my Discover & I wasn't paying interest on a cash advance!!!!! If they couldn't delete it then they would have to delete the whole order.

So the   supervisor had the cashier delete the whole order & re-scan everything!

The second time I looked at the electronic pad before I signed & a cash-back of $20 popped up. At that point I told the cashier & she deleted it.

The total came out right. The cashier agreed that the electronic pad must be defective. (yeah, right!)

Obviously the cashier knew the electronic pad wasn't defective because she NEVER offered me the $40 at the beginning.

Can you imagine how many people went through before me & at the end of her shift how much money she   pocketed?

Just to alert everyone. My coworker went to Milford , DE Wal-Mart last week.
She had her items rung up by the cashier. The cashier hurried her along and didn't give her a receipt.

She asked the cashier for a receipt and the cashier was annoyed and gave it to her.
My coworker didn't look at her receipt until later that night. The receipt showed that she asked for $20 cash back. SHE DID NOT ASK FOR CASH BACK!

My coworker called Wal-Mart who investigated but could not see the cashier pocket the money. She then called her niece who works for the bank and her niece told her This is a new scam. The cashier will key in that you asked for cash back and then hand it to her friend who is the next person in line.

Please, please, please check your receipts right away when using credit or debit cards!

This is NOT limited to Wal-Mart, although they are the largest retailer so they have the most incidents.

I am adding to this....My husband and I were in Wal-Mart North Salisbury and paying with a credit card. When my husband went to sign the credit card signer, he just happened to notice there was a $20 cash back added. He told the cashier that he did not ask nor want cash back and she said this machine has been messing up and she canceled it.
We didn't think anything of it until we read this email.

I wonder how many "seniors" have been, or will be, "stung" by this one????

THIS SCAM CAN BE DONE ANYWHERE, AT ANY RETAIL OR WHOLESALE LOCATION!!!

BEFORE LEAVING THE CASHIER'S STATION!!!!!
CHECK YOUR RECEIPT
BEFORE LEAVING THE STAND. I'VE SEEN PEOPLE DO JUST THAT. NOW I'LL START!

PASS THIS ON TO YOUR FRIENDS, KIDS, LOVED ONES

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State errs in taking homes | Lansing State Journal | lansingstatejournal.com

2011-12-05T11:15:00.001-08:00

Good article on the estate recovery plan implemented in MI.

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20111204/OPINION02/112040479/State-errs-taking-homes?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7COpinions%7Cs

National Memory Screening Day

2011-11-09T13:41:00.001-08:00

Free Memory Screenings!!

Please join Senior Helpers and Thompson Pharmacy on November 15, 2011 for National Memory Screening Day, an annual initiative of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. Take advantage of free, confidential memory screenings and pick up free educational materials about memory concerns, dementia, care giving and successful aging. Walk ins are welcome and light refreshments will be provided.

Location: Thompson Pharmacy - 324 S Union Street, Traverse City

Time: 10:00-2:00

For information, call: 231-933-6600

Memory screenings are a significant first step toward finding out if a person may have a memory problem. Memory problems could be caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other medical conditions. A memory screening is not used to diagnose any particular illness and does not replace consultation with a physician or other qualified healthcare professional.

Questions? Concerns? Visit www.nationalmemoryscreening.org, or call (toll-free) 866-AFA-8484.

We look forward to seeing you on November 15^th!

Erin Simon

415 S. Elmwood Ave. |Suite A | Traverse City, MI 49684

O: 231.933.6600 | M: 231.632.7472 | F: 231.933.6190

E-mail: esimon@seniorhelpers.com

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NAPIS Report

2011-06-28T17:30:00.001-07:00

The 2010 NAPIS report is now available online at

http://www.michigan.gov/documents/miseniors/NAPIS-Report-2010_356496_7.pdf

The statistics will be very useful to those who serve the aging.

Mike Sheehan
Commission on Services to the Aging

Legislative Report from CSA

2011-06-20T09:55:00.000-07:00

Michigan Commission on Services to the Aging

Deputy Director Peggy Brey brought the commission up to date on several items of interest to the senior service sector.

· Governor Snyder has appointed Kari Sederburg as Director of the Office of Services to the Aging. [Sederburg, of Lansing, currently serves as the director of public policy for the Michigan Nonprofit Association where she leads the organization in advocacy efforts. She previously served as vice president of marketing and communications for Gerontology Network in Grand Rapids, a service provider that works to enhance the quality of life and promote the independence of older adults. In this role, she oversaw all communications, advocacy and development matters for the organization. Sederburg also served as senior account executive for The Rossman Group. She earned a bachelor's degree in business from Ferris State University and a master's degree in public administration with a focus on aging policy and state budgeting from Ohio University.]

· An important White Paper is being prepared that will discuss health care and wellness, with a significant component devoted to the aging population.

· A bipartisan elder abuse bills package is on its way to installation.

· With some exceptions, the OSA budget has retained 2010 levels.

· The Administration on Aging will be giving Michigan an enhanced Aging Disability/Alzheimer's grant.

The Commission approved the following funding proposals:

· Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) allocations totaling $2,980,622. The program provides part-time employment and training opportunities for low-income older adults, 55 years of age or older, at community service agencies. [Of interest to Region X, $95,496,00 goes to AAANWM.]

· Emergency Preparedness Equipment Purchase grant in the amount of $100,000. The money will be used to purchase rugged computer laptops and radio communication equipment for distribution to all 16 AAAs to be used during their disaster preparedness/disaster response activities.

· Grants to waiver agents for the "Building Training . . . Building Quality" project in the amount of $2.03 million. The three-year grant comes from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Health Resources & Services Administration, and is to be used to train personal care and home-care aides. [Of interest to Region X, AAANWM will receive $76,011.]

· Grant agreement with Michigan Disability Rights Coalition in the amount of $165,305. The funds will be used to pay for Money Follows the Person (MFP) Option C Advocacy Services for people who are preparing to leave or have recently left nursing homes to return to the community with services in their own homes, Homes for the Aged, and Adult Foster Care Homes.

This was the annual joint meeting with the State Advisory Council on Aging, which presented its 2010 report to the Commission on Services to the Aging. Their focus had been on older adults and technology. Because of the subject's complexity and broad scope, both sides agreed to extend and refine the charge for the coming year. There will be three components:

          (1) There will be a survey to determine how SAC and CSA members
                use technology. The survey may be expanded to other groups,
                such as senior center attendees and AAA policy/advisory board
                members.

(2) SAC will examine the older adult/service system interface,

focusing on the aging network's response to the digital divide.

· Are agencies pushing older adults to use computers and other technology?

· What about those who refuse to use modern technology?

· What are the available person-centered formats?

· From the telephone to the web site: what do people want?

· What gets the hits on the MiSeniors web site?

(3) Reintroduction of previous SAC research on assistive technology.

Special note to Region X: The State Advisory Council and the Commission on Services to the Aging will both have openings in the next few months. Please watch for OSA calls for membership and application notices and fill them out promptly (if you are interested) to ensure that northern Michigan has stronger representation. If you are feeling aggressive, contact Carol Stangel for SAC applications (517-373-4093) or Carol Dye for CSA applications (517-373-8268). Alternatively—and perhaps better—you may write to either name listed above at P.O. Box 30676, Lansing, MI 48909-8176 .

Submitted by Commissioner Michael J. Sheehan

Commission on Services to the Aging

Reminder: the October 21, 2011, Commission on Services to the Aging meeting will take place in Traverse City. It would be great if BASA members and concerned senior citizens could pack that meeting, making it the best-attended of all time. Details later.

C.L.A.S.S. Act and Long Term Care

2011-06-01T08:49:00.001-07:00

An invite for anyone around the country to hear.

Welcome,

If there is anyone that has ever considered or if you know anyone

that should consider to have long term care and wanted

to hear how it works, now is the time.

You will hear how the product compares to the coming

Government Plan called the C.L.A.S.S. Act that most

people, if you didn’t know, will be automatically enrolled in

from ages 18-65 unless you opt out. Be ready, be informed.

HR especially needs to hear this.

Friday, June 3 at 12:00 noon WLJN 89.9 FM and streaming

at www.wljn.com (use blinking “Listen Live” icon)

will be an educational radio show “Breaking Free” on Long Term Care and the

C.L.A.S.S. Act, a long term care plan inside the National Health Care Plan.

Following the radio show, 2pm and 5pm will be a live seminar. We will

have one in Lake Leelanau Health Department building and one in Traverse City.

More information available for the radio show and seminar at

www. WLJN.com

info@wljn.com or 946-1400

lorne.dickinsonjr@gmail.com,

631-2015. RSVP limited seating.

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Michigan State budget news....

2011-05-26T11:16:00.001-07:00

Final decisions on the Department of Community Health budget for FY 2012

(beg. October 1, 2011) were made yesterday and there was both good and

bad news:

The good news is that the previously proposed cuts to the Office of

Services to the Aging budget for  nutrition, senior volunteer, and other

programs will not go into effect.  This is especially fortunate since

OSA has been cut repeatedly in recent years and area agencies on aging

would have had great difficulty absorbing further reductions in

funding.  Also, instead of flat funding for the MI Choice Home and

Community Based Waiver program as the Governor had proposed, the

Conference Committee approved approximately $24 million in additional

funding, presumably to fund the additional nursing home transitions DCH

has planned.

The bad news is that two of the Governor's proposed cuts were adopted by

the conference committee: there is no funding for the Michigan Quality

Community Care Council which maintains a registry to match Home Help

consumers find suitable Home Help providers.  In addition, Home Help

consumers who need chore services only  (but not personal care services)

will be denied services as of October 1.   The Center for Civil Justice

and the Michigan Poverty Law Program have advised the Department that

denying chore services to this population while still providing them to

individuals who need personal care services is a violation of federal

law.  The Department has referred the matter to its lawyers but does not

appear to have made a final decision on whether the Department can

proceed with terminating services to these Home Help consumers.

--

Alison E. Hirschel

Elder Law Attorney

Michigan Poverty Law Program

3490 Belle Chase Way, Suite 50

Lansing, MI 48911

Phone: (517) 394-2985 x 231

Fax: (517) 394-4276

www.mplp.org

Welcome to the 26th Annual Parkinson's Summer Forum

2011-05-16T11:58:00.001-07:00

Mark you calendar and make your reservations for the 26th Annual Parkinson's Summer Forum Thursday June 2, at the Hagerty Conference Center.

Registration is due before May 25 for $25.00 after that date Late Fee is $40.00. Flyer is available at the Senior Expo or go on line www.gtaparkinsonsgroup.org to view the Flyer and make reservations.

Daniel Weintraub, M.D. will be the keynote speaker: "Psychiatric and Cognitive Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease: Assessment and Management" will his topic.

Maxine Meach
Grand Traverse Parkinson's
Support Group
10049 E. Grandview Ct.
Traverse City, MI 49684-5307
Phone/Fax 231-947-1946
mmeach@sbcglobal.net
www.gtaparkinsonsgroup.org

Senior Summit Save the Date

2011-05-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

Save the date!

You are invited to attend

The 2011 Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Senior Summit
On Monday, August 15th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
At Lansing Community College's West Campus

A continental breakfast and lunch will be provided, and keynote
speakers will introduce topics
relevant to those who work with the Medicare population. Breakout
sessions will provide attendees
the opportunity to interact with value-added service providers.

The 2011 Senior Summit is a must for anyone who works with Michigan's
Medicare beneficiaries.
Invitees are staff from the Michigan Medicare/Medigap Assistance Program and
the Area Agency
on Aging, as well as from senior centers and senior living facilities. We
encourage coordinators,
counselors, directors, and other support staff who work closely with
Medicare recipients to attend.

Since this much anticipated event is still in its planning stages, we are
asking for discussion topic
suggestions. Please feel free to send us your ideas at any of the email
addresses below.

We are look forward to seeing you in August!

Sincerely,

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Senior Marketing Consultants

John Dowsley Juliann Morelli
Rose Cook
jdowsley@bcbsm.com jmorelli@bcbsm.com
rcook@bcbsm.com

Advocacy Alert: Contact Congress on Drastic Budget Proposals

2011-04-25T05:27:00.001-07:00

Contact Congress on Drastic Budget Proposals

Cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Discretionary Spending In the Mix

April 20, 2011

The budget proposal passed by the House of Representatives on April 14 would seriously undermine the Medicaid program, fundamentally change the way Medicare works and cap domestic discretionary spending at FY 2008 levels for the next five years.

n4a is deeply concerned about the effect of this budget proposal on older adults and caregivers, particularly the provisions that could undermine the ability of millions of older adults to age in place with dignity, health and independence.

We urge all AAAs and Title VI aging programs, as well as the local networks of leaders, providers and advocates you convene, to make clear to Congress that drastic cuts to the nation's safety net for frail and vulnerable older adults are not an appropriate starting point for the larger conversation about deficit reduction. Please share this Advocacy Alert widely and take action while Congress is on recess until the end of April.

Background

As previously reported by n4a (April 14 Legislative Update), the House FY 2012 budget resolution, often referred to as the "Ryan Plan" after House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI), includes an estimated cut of $1.4 billion in Medicaid by converting the program to a block grant and repealing the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Not including the repeal of ACA funding, the proposal would reduce Medicaid funding for the next ten years by a total of $771 billion, or a reduction of about 35 percent. If enacted, states would have the burden of limiting their programs to deal with the reduced federal support. The reductions made by the state could take the form of curtailing covered services, capping enrollment and imposing high premiums and co-payments on beneficiaries.

The Ryan Plan would also freeze non-security discretionary spending on programs such as the Older Americans Act, Section 202 and 811 housing, transportation and other social services programs at 2008 levels for the next five years.

Additionally, the plan would covert Medicare into a voucher program for those now age 55 and younger (beginning in 2022) and increase Medicare eligibility to age 67. Under the redesigned program beneficiaries would be provided with a Medicare payment to buy insurance from a list of guaranteed private coverage options, similar to the Part C Medicare Advantage benefit. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has predicted this proposal will increase the cost of health coverage for beneficiaries significantly.

Budget Process Next Steps

At this time there is no definite scenario for how and when Congress will consider the proposals built into the budget resolution. With the House and Senate highly unlikely to agree on a budget resolution, the next opportunity to address general spending caps is expected to be the federal debt ceiling legislation. Congress will have to consider legislation to raise the ceiling on the amount of debt the federal government can issue, currently set at $14.3 trillion. The federal government's debt is expected to reach that ceiling by May 16, and the Administration has stated that if the ceiling is not raised by July 18, it will be unable to make the payments on the existing debt. Unlike the budget resolution, the debt ceiling bill is "must pass" legislation.

It is expected that fiscal conservatives will refuse to support legislation to raise the debt ceiling unless it is accompanied by legislation requiring limits on federal spending. Possible limits on spending could take many forms, but most likely they will be general in nature and detailed proposals on Medicaid, Medicare and other affected programs will likely be addressed in separate legislation. Meanwhile, President Obama is pushing for bipartisan negotiations between the Administration and Congress, with the goal of reaching an agreement on the overall budget by June.

Advocacy Outlook

The battle over cuts in Medicaid, Medicare and discretionary programs is likely to be prolonged, and involve a series of critical decisions and votes. It is important that the opponents of such proposals express their opposition early and often. Members of Congress need to be aware of the serious consequences to older adults and people with disabilities if drastic proposals are hastily adapted without thoughtful consideration of the short and long-term effects on the most vulnerable Americans.

Action Requested:

à Contact your Representatives and Senators to oppose proposals to block grant or cap spending under the Medicaid program. Use n4a's Talking Points for FY 2012 to make your case. (FY 2012 Budget Talking Points)

Take the time to localize what these harmful cuts would mean for the older adults and people with disabilities in your state and community.

STEP 1: Reach out to your Senators and Representatives. Attend any public events/town halls they are hosting and raise these issues and/or email their local and DC offices. (U.S. Capitol Switchboard = (202) 224-3121. Email = www.house.gov and www.senate.gov)

STEP 2: Reach out to your Representatives and Senators to invite them to Older Americans Month events you are hosting during May. This is a great opportunity to educate your elected officials about key programs your agency operates and the critical services you provide to their constituents.

STEP 3: Gather stories from your clients to share with legislators—putting faces on the facts is a powerful messaging tool. Share those stories and any feedback you receive as a result of your contacts with your Representatives and Senators with n4a policy staff. (www.n4a.org/advocacy/feedback/)

STEP 4: Ask other advocates to do the same! Urge colleagues, advisory board members, volunteers and clients to make call and write emails to their legislators, as well.

If you have questions about this Advocacy Alert, please contact n4a's Public Policy and Legislative Affairs staff, Amy Gotwals and K.J. Hertz, at 202.872.0888 or agotwals@n4a.org, khertz@n4a.org.

National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a)
1730 Rhode Island Avenue, NW
Suite 1200
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 872-0888
Fax:(202) 872-0057

To unsubscribe send email to webmaster@n4a.org

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URGENT HELP NEEDED FOR THE SENIOR COMPANION AND FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAMS!

2011-04-15T10:34:00.001-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

This is an urgent email to let everyone know that we just got word from OSA and after digging around, the news from LANSING is not good at all for Senior Companion and Foster Grandparent Programs.

The House of Representatives version of the 2012 Budget has us being totally eliminated that means no Foster Grandparent, Senior Companion and RSVP Programs.

The Senate version of the 2012 Budget Bill has us getting a 15% cut.

What I would like is for you to contact your local representatives and senators and ask them why they would want to go beyond what Governor Snyder had proposed and that was a 9% cut. Please help out in anyway you can! Write letters, call, fax and email. The urgency is there and this needs to be done by Monday afternoon.

Phil Potvin 517-373-1747

Darwin Booher 517-373-1725

Howard Walker 517-373-2413

Bruce Rendon 517-373-3817

Wayne Schmidt 517-373-1766

Greg MacMaster 517-373-0829

Ray Franz 517-373-0825

Frank Foster 517-373-2629

Take care and thank you for everything each of you have done on behalf of out programs!

Douglas Durand, Assistant Program Director

Senior Companion/Foster Grandparent Programs

421 S. Mitchell St.

Suite 2

Cadillac, MI 49601

231 775-6581

Fax: 231 775-5421

ddurand@catholichumanservices.org

Douglas Durand
Catholic Human Services, Inc.

This document may contain information covered under the Privacy Act, 5 USC 552(a), and/or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (PL 104-191) and its various implementing regulations and must be protected in accordance with those provisions. Healthcare information is personal and sensitive and must be treated accordingly. If this correspondence contains healthcare information it is being provided to you after appropriate authorization from the patient or under circumstances that don't require patient authorization. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and confidential manner. Redisclosure without additional patient consent or as permitted by law is prohibited. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality subjects you to application of appropriate sanction. If you have received this correspondence in error, please notify the sender at once and destroy any copies you have made.

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Please take the Community Needs Assessment

2011-04-04T10:17:00.001-07:00

link http://survey.aacil.org/html/dnnm/dnnmsurvey.htm

Double click on the link above to get to the community needs assessment that Disability Network/ Northern Michigan is conducting. All of the information that we receive will be shared so this is a good opportunity to gather information about our community that we can all use. The unique aspect of the assessment is that it takes into account disability concerns in addition to the broad issues of community life.

We are interested in receiving assessments from a broad range of folks, so please share this freely with your customers, friends, and family. There are hard copies available and an accessible link is available as well – please contact me if you would like some hard copies on need an accessible link.

The assessment takes about 15 minutes to complete. This assessment process will end at the end of April.

Thank you!

Jim Moore

Executive Director

Disability Network / Northern Michigan

333 East State Street

Traverse City, MI 49684

231.922.0903

www.disabilitynetwork-nmi.org

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Action Needed to save Senior Companion and Foster Grandparent Programs

2011-04-04T10:16:00.001-07:00

Good Monday Morning Everyone!

I hope everyone had a great weekend!

I just wanted to do a friendly email reminder to request your assistance in contacting Senator’s Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow today and to please voice your opinion to not cut Senior Corps (Senior Companion, Foster Grandparent and RSVP Programs) from the 2011 Budget. Remember Senior Corps is under the umbrella of Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) and that complete program was voted by the House of Representatives to be eliminated yet this year!

Everyone is asked to call their Senators AGAIN. Please note that call-in volume is measured by those calling the toll-free call-in service at 855-877-3783 or 855-US-SERVE. Please use this number only to call. You'll be patched directly through to your Senator.

It is sufficient to simply call your Senator and say: "I am calling to ask Senator Levin or Stabenow to support Senior Corps and vote NO on any proposal to eliminate funding for Senior Corps.”

On behalf of the Senior Volunteer Programs of NW Michigan, I really appreciate your support and action taken for our programs.

Take care,

Douglas Durand, Assistant Program Director

Senior Companion/Foster Grandparent Programs

421 S. Mitchell St.

Suite 2

Cadillac, MI 49601

231 775-6581

Fax: 231 775-5421

ddurand@catholichumanservices.org

URGENT ALERT: Oppose Historic Cuts to Senior Programs!

2011-03-30T06:09:00.001-07:00

With very little doubt, there will be significant costs to the federal and state budgets that will arise out of these suggested cuts. Most legislators are unaware of the domino effect of these suggested cuts. The Senior Community Service Employment Program helps people obtain unsubsidized employment, making them taxpaying citizens. With this program eliminated, many of these individuals will be forced to obtain assistance through more costly federal and state support programs. The Senior Corps Programs utilize volunteers to assist in many care providing settings. Without these programs, higher cost programs will have to be utilized to keep people in their own homes, or, they will have to be moved into institutional care settings with significantly higher costs associated with the care provided in these settings. Supportive Housing programs for the Elderly also keep people out of significantly higher cost support settings.

These suggested program cuts will in the long term add to the federal and state deficits that exists, because the individual care needs will still be present, but it will be much more costly to provide the support and care without these valuable programs to assist.

Your advocacy and awareness of these issues is extremely important. Thank you!!

03/2011 Legislative Updates

2011-03-23T10:16:00.001-07:00

Michigan Association of Senior Centers

Three advocacy info items are attached.

One is a summary of elder care bills currently proposed in the Michigan House of Representatives. Contact your local representative if you have questions or desire to have input on any of them.

Two other attachements are related to Older Michiganian Day. This is an opportunity for you to get some of your seniors involved in communicating with the legislature on their issues.

Contact us here at MASC any time you think there is an issue we need to check out on behalf of seniors and senior centers. One of our goals is to keep you informed on the issues and support you in your advocacy.

Elder Care bills in Mich House of Rep

Older Michiganian Day flyer

Older Michigan Day news article

URGENT-YOUR HELP IS NEEDED TO SAVE THE SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM

2011-03-21T18:48:00.001-07:00

Good Afternoon Everyone,

I wanted to provide you with an update on the Save Service efforts (Senior Companion Program), and to once again ask for your support and involvement.

Last week, the Senate voted on two competing spending bills, H.R. 1 and a Senate Alternative. While both measures failed, it is clear Congress is deeply divided on the path forward.

Please note we now have very few working days left to make sure the final bill restores funding for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) and its programs (Senior Companion Program).

I would like for you to let Senator’s Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow know how important the Senior Companion Program is to your agency/organization and especially how your clients/consumers benefit from the Senior Companion Program the Senior Companion volunteer!

So, on Tuesday, March 15, I am asking you to help us MAKE THE CALL to save service by flooding the lines to Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow.

The phone number for Senator Carl Levin is: (202) 224-6221

The phone number for Senator Debbie Stabenow is: (202) 224-4822

Help us educate these two Senators about the value and cost-effectiveness of the Senior Companion Program!

One thing I do know is that without the Senior Companion Program, many older adults, organizations and communities will be the losers if the program is eliminated or drastically cut.

Thank you for your support!

Douglas Durand, Assistant Program Director

Senior Companion/Foster Grandparent Programs

421 S. Mitchell St.

Suite 2

Cadillac, MI 49601

231 775-6581

Fax: 231 775-5421

ddurand@catholichumanservices.org

the new Snyder Budget and how it impacts the older citizens of Michigan

2011-03-02T10:44:00.000-08:00

Here’s some more information on the new Snyder Budget and how it impacts the older citizens of our state. Some info is new. See next posting too.

An atomic bomb hit Lansing this week . . . . just as Lieutenant Governor Calley predicted, with the release of Governor Snyder’s first budget plan on Thursday.

After three years of cuts, the Office of Services to the Aging (OSA) is again targeted for more cuts. The Executive budget for FY 2012 would cut $2.2 million; this comes on top of $10 million lost between FY 2009 and 2011. The $2.2 million would come from community services ($1,025,500), nutrition ($791,000), Foster Grandparents ($201,000), RSVP ($56,400) and Senior Companion ($144,400). OSA also receives federal funding, but cuts are also being discussed in D.C.

Please sound your advocacy voice to convince Legislators to maintain funding for meals-on-wheels and other OSA services! See the Advocacy Alert attached to this message for details.

Medicaid-funded long term care programs are a mixed bag. For FY 2012, nursing homes would see a 2% increase in Medicaid ($35 million) and PACE programs would get 30% more ($7 million). The MI Choice Medicaid Waiver would be maintained at the current level of $206 million. But Michigan’s other major home and community-based program – Home Help – would be cut by $15 million (5%) next year. The Governor also eliminates the Michigan Quality Community Care Council (MQC3) that runs a worker registry, does background checks, training and provides other supports for Home Help workers.

AARP is voicing strong opposition to another portion of the Governor’s spending plan to raise revenues by taxing all public and private pensions, now totally or partially exempt from state income tax. Right now, Michigan is one of the most retiree-friendly states in the nation in terms of income taxes. It is estimated that 95% of older Michiganians 65+ pay no state income tax. Other changes - the extra exemption for seniors would be eliminated, and the Homestead Property tax credit for those 65+ would be reduced. Snyder would keep the total exemption on Social Security income. The Executive budget would also eliminate the Earned Income Tax Credit, which benefits low-income workers including many in the long term care industry.

SPEAK OUT AGAINST MORE CUTS IN OSA AGING SERVICES

2011-03-02T10:43:00.000-08:00

AREA AGENCIES ON AGING ASSOCIATION OF MICHIGAN

ADVOCACY ALERT

February 18, 2011

BACKGROUND:

Vulnerable seniors have been victims of the state’s budget crisis. Since fiscal year 2009, programs funded by the Office of Services to the Aging (OSA) have been cut by $10 million – a 28% loss in state funding. And the Governor’s budget recommendations for fiscal year 2012 include even more cuts in OSA services.
Totaling $2.2 million, the cuts would reduce in-home services, home-delivered meals, care management, volunteer programs, caregiver supports and other programs that help keep seniors living independently. Without these services, caregivers get burned out and nursing home placement is frequently the result, with seniors spending down their assets and going on Medicaid to pay the $68,000 annual bill.

The Governor’s budget is only a recommendation - it’s the Legislature that makes budget decisions. Your advocacy is needed to convince Michigan’s Representatives and Senators that OSA cuts are ‘penny wise and pound foolish.’

OSA services help seniors stay in their own homes, spend their own limited funds wisely, and stay off the Medicaid rolls. OSA services are an important support for unpaid caregivers who are providing 80% of the assistance that frail elders receive. Even a small amount of in-home services can prevent institutional placement. In 2010, if the aging network’s 2,830 most at-risk clients in the community had not gotten help and were forced into nursing homes, Medicaid would have spent $191 million more on nursing home care. In contrast, those clients were served by the aging network at a cost of $2.4 million.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

Contact these members of the House and Senate Community Health Budget Subcommittees and ask them to oppose cuts in OSA services for seniors for next year.

House Community Health Budget Subcommittee members

Matt Lori, Chairman (877) 262-5959 mattlori@house.mi.gov

Peter MacGregor (855) 347-8073 petermacgregor@house.mi.gov

Dave Agema (800) 968-2320 daveagema@house.mi.gov

Bob Genetski (888) 642-4088 bobgenetski@house.mi.gov

Rashida Tlaib (877) 852-4212 rashidatlaib@house.mi.gov

Joan Bauer (517) 373-0826 joanbauer@house.mi.gov

Senate Community Health Budget Subcommittee members

John Moolenaar, Chairman (517) 373-7946 senjmoolenaar@senate.mi.gov

Bruce Caswell (517) 373-5932 senbcaswell@senate.mi.gov

Darwin Booher (517) 373-1725 sendbooher@senate.mi.gov

Vincent Gregory (517) 373-7888 senvgregory@senate.mi.gov

Here are some talking points:

OSA services prevent seniors from going on Medicaid.

OSA services are extremely cost-effective. The average annual cost of OSA services (meals-on-wheels and home care) was $1,000 in FY 2010. In contrast, a nursing home cost an average of $68,000.

There are over 6,000 seniors on waiting lists for OSA services like meals and home care.

Northern Michigan could lose several community services

2011-02-27T12:18:00.000-08:00

Northern Michigan could lose several community services: "A non-profit organization that provides assistance to thousands of people across Northern Michigan could lose a major funding and be forced to cut programs."

Budget plan could burden senior citizens

2011-02-27T12:14:00.000-08:00

Budget plan could burden senior citizens: "Part of Governor Rick Snyder budget proposal is to start taxing pensions."

Available Senior Aid

2011-02-27T11:55:00.002-08:00

The following is a list of resources available in each area. Pots of money get spent quickly so what we have today may be gone in a week or less. Please have staff or the family call the Community Services Rep if there is a question on funding or different ways to help their client. Current as of 3/10/10

Northern Office (Emmet, Charlevoix, Antrim counties) 1-800-443-5518

Housing: ESG-help for homeless and prevention (Antrim in T.C.)

Foreclosure-counseling available

Utility Limited electric, deliverable and gas in Emmet county only

Food CSFP and TEFAP programs depending on child status and

age (next TEFAP is June)

Budget Counseling

IDA Savings program for education, home, business

Weatherization: Referral needed to get on waiting list

CDBG For Emmet and Charlevoix counties

Housing Preservation Grant For Emmet county

Southern Office (Wexford, Missaukee, Roscommon counties) 1-800-443-2297

Housing: homeless prevention, special rent subsidies

Foreclosure counseling available

Utility Wx, Ms, Rosc have deliverable fuel and limited electric and gas

Food CSFP and TEFAP programs depending on child status and age

Budget Counseling Household money management plan

IDA Savings program for education, home, business

Weatherization Referral needed to get on waiting list

CDBG Home improvement program for Missaukee and Wexford counties.

Housing Preservation Grant Repair funds for Wexford and Miss. counties.

Central Office (Grand Traverse, Benzie, Kalkaska, Leelanau) Antrim some)

1-800-632-7334

Housing: ESG – help for eviction, mortgage arrearage, homeless Case management only

Foreclosure counseling

Special rent subsidies when available

Utility Deliverable fuels for all 4 counties

Limited electric and gas

Food CSFP and TEFAP programs depending on child status and age

Budget Counseling GT, Bz, Lee, call office for Triage. Packett will be sent to customer

Mi Enrolls for Medicaid Counseling

IDA Savings program for education, home, business

Weatherization Referral needed to get on waiting list

CDBG Home improvement program for Benzie county.

Housing Preservation Grant Repair funds for Grand Traverse, Benzie and Kalkaska counties.

First Time Homebuyer counseling and workshops- T.C., Petoskey, Cadillac

Financial Fitness Workshops-Counseling monthly T.C., Petoskey, Cadillac, Mancelona, Leelanau, Benzie

Bankruptcy, loan document review and Debtor Education- calls go to Petoskey

Grand Traverse Neighborhood Meeting-third Tuesday of January-November TC (support for those experiencing poverty)

Budget/Crisis Counseling MI Works offices-Cadillac, Petoskey, Traverse City

Mini IDA savings, budget counseling, crisis management for unemployed or underemployed

Medicare News March 2011

2011-02-27T11:55:00.001-08:00

You may be eligible for a Medicare Savings Program

Do you want your $96.40 (or $110.50 or $115.40) put back into your social security check and still have Part B coverage?

Are you on Medicare?
Is your income less than $1226 a month if single or less than $1655 a month if married?
Are your savings, investments and real estate (other than your home and vehicle) less than $6,680* if single or less than $10,020* if married?

· These resource limits could include an additional $1500 per person for burial expenses if in a separate savings account.

If so, contact your local Commission on Aging OR

call the MMAP Hotline for assistance

1-800-803-7174

The Medicare Medicaid Assistance program (MMAP) is the state-wide program which provides free health benefits counseling to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers.

This publication has been created or produced by MMAP, Inc. with financial assistance, in whole or in part, through a grant from the Administration on Aging and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express their findings and conclusions. These contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the grantee should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government

Dental Clinics North welcomes back adults enrolled in Medicaid

2011-02-27T11:54:00.001-08:00

Contact Information: Jane Sundmacher

(231) 347-5041 Work

(231) 838-0358 Cell

j.sundmacher@nwhealth.org

Dental Clinics North welcomes back adults enrolled in Medicaid

Medicaid adult dental benefit fully reinstated as of October 1

(October 4, 2010) Governor Jennifer Granholm signed a series of budget bills late last week which include full restoration of dental coverage for adult patients enrolled in Medicaid. Medicaid adult dental benefits were cut to emergency-only services 15 months ago.

“This is great news for our patients and for Michigan tax payers,” said Linda Yaroch, Deputy Health Officer for the Health Department of Northwest Michigan, which manages eight Dental Clinics North locations, providing oral health services for low income and uninsured residents across the tip of the mitt. “Medicaid patients with untreated dental disease end up in hospital emergency rooms, which is far more costly than seeing a dentist.”

According to Gerald Chase, Health Officer, there were many individuals involved in reinstating the full benefit for Medicaid patients. “I would like to thank Representative Gary McDowell and Senator Roger Klan for their leadership in assuring the inclusion of this restoration in the Budget," he said.

Before the benefit was reinstated on October 1, 2010, the only treatment option for many Medicaid dental patients was having their teeth pulled. Now with full restoration of the benefit, Medicaid patients can be seen for preventive care and treatment.

“Oral health care is extremely important in preventing, diagnosing, and treating both oral health and primary health care needs of patients,” said Thomas Veryser, DDS, Chief Executive Officer of Michigan Community Dental Clinics, Inc. “Several studies have documented how poor oral health affects the state’s health, resulting in increases in pre-term and/or low birth weight infants, heart disease rates, incidence of arteriosclerosis, illness and death from oral cancer, and difficulty in managing diabetes.”

Oral health care is not secondary but intrinsic to good health. “Reinstating the Medicaid adult dental benefit is both fiscally and morally responsible,” he said.

Dental Clinics North provides general dentistry for the entire family at locations in Alpena, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, East Jordan, Gaylord, Mancelona, Traverse City , and West Branch. Medicaid, Delta Healthy Kids, and Northern Dental Plan are accepted. To schedule an appointment in any Dental Clinics North location, call 877-321-7070.

Open House: Community Services Block Grant Budget Cut-Impact Assessment

2011-02-22T06:20:00.000-08:00

This includes an impact statement on the effects of proposed cuts to the Community Services Block Grant, invitations to all BASA Members to attend an informational Open House, and a recent press release. Traverse City’s Open House is scheduled for Thursday from 11:00 to 12:30

In order to educate and inform our elected local Representatives, County Commissioners, Partners and Clients regarding the impact of the CSBG budget cut, NMCAA is planning an “Open House” in all three NMCAA office locations next week.

Cadillac office: Tuesday, February 22, 12:30pm-2:00pm

Petoskey office: Wednesday, February 23, 11:00am-12:30pm

Traverse City office: Thursday, February 24, 11:00am-12:30pm

John Stephenson, Executive Director will be presenting our program details and CSBG cut impact assessment to the invited guests. We are on a time crunch and will need to invite our guests through an email or phone calls.

Attached documents:

- CSBG Budget Cut-Impact Assessment

- Invitation cards for all the three “Open House” (please use appropriate invitations for your area)

- CSBG Budget Cut-Press Release

CALL YOUR MEMBER OF CONGRESS TODAY!

2011-02-15T11:21:00.001-08:00

Call Congress Today – Support National Service Funding!
Urge your them to vote NO on a Continuing Resolution that eliminates funding for the Corporation for National and Community Service.

This week the U.S. House of Representatives will begin consideration of a Continuing Resolution that will fund the last 7 months of Fiscal Year 2011. House Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers has announced that the bill will immediately cut $100 billion from the federal budget. Major news outlets have reported that the bill will eliminate funding for programs of the Corporation for National and Community Service, including AmeriCorps, Learn and Serve and Senior Corps.

How You Can Help:
We need to reach every single Member of the House of Representatives and urge them to vote NO on a continuing resolution that eliminates funding for the Corporation for National and Community Service and AmeriCorps. Call your Congressperson TODAY – and encourage others to do the same.
If you need help determining the members of your congressional delegation, visit www.congress.org. This database will provide you with contact information for your elected officials.
You can call your Representatives directly or be connected through the House Operator (202-225-3121).

Talking points and other information on the impact of National Service Funding in Michigan can be found on our website at - http://www.mnaonline.org/servicefunding.aspx. Please contact Kari at ksederburg@mnaonline.org if you have any questions.

BASA Support Requested: Upcoming Events and Fundraisers

2011-01-14T10:42:00.000-08:00

Greetings Fellow BASA Members!

Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA)

proudly presents

Keep the Wheels Rolling Campaign – providing nutritious food to homebound seniors

A Fundraiser at Bob Evans

January 19^th, 2011

3:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Bob Evans, Traverse City

15% of the sale will go towards “Keep the Wheels Rolling Campaign” when accompanied with the attached flyer.

Gift of Warmth Gala – warming homes of neediest neighbors

January 22^nd, 2011

6:30 pm – 11:00 pm

Park Place Dome, Traverse City

Last few hours for an opportunity to buy Pre-Sale tickets: $30 for one / $50 for two (until 15^th midnight)

From 16^th till the time of the event all tickets priced at $30 per piece

Tickets sold at:

www.nmcaa.net

NMCAA, 3963 Three Mile Road

Northwestern Bank (Garfield, Chums Corner, West Bay)

Roy’s General Store (Intersection of Three Mile and Hammond)

Visit NMCAA’s booth at Horizon Book Store, Downtown Traverse City and buy your tickets, available only on Saturday, January 15^th, 2011 between Noon – 5:00 pm

Help us help the people in need. Please share this information with your co-workers, friends and family.

Thank you

Vi Brott, Meals on Wheels Director

Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency

3963 Three Mile

Traverse City MI. 49686

Phone: 231-346-2112 Fax: 231-947-4469

NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission may contain confidential information and is intended only for the person(s) named. Any use, copying or disclosure by any other person is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender via e-mail.

Deaf / Hearing loss presentation

2010-11-03T10:31:00.001-07:00

This is the flyer for the educational presentation for our Deaf community and/or those individuals experiencing hearing loss. There will also be an opportunity for individuals to apply for FREE strobe light smoke alarms and/or vibrating smoke alarms. The presentation is next week Tuesday. Details in the attachment.

The Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department,

Quota International Club of Traverse City,

and

The Disability Network of Northern Michigan

Present

Fire risks for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing

Tuesday, November 9th from 5:45 – 7:00pm

at the Grand Traverse Metro Fire Station 11, 3000 Albany in Traverse City – located off of Veteran’s Drive.

· Investigate the unique challenges during an emergency

· Learn about fire prevention and resources available in our community

· Find out what to do before a fire/during a fire

· Hear first hand experiences from Deaf community members and firefighters

· Apply to receive a free strobe light smoke detector and/or vibration alarm

Admission is free but space is limited. Please call Bonnie at the Disability Network to reserve a space. 922-0903 Ext 10

*Captioning available through the Disability Network

*Interpreter provided by Grand Traverse Industries-List’n

FW: BE Aware FW: [MI Elder Law] FW: veterans benefits scams

2010-10-26T11:41:00.003-07:00

begin:vcard
fn:Mary Kavanaugh-Gahn
n:Kavanaugh-Gahn;Mary
org:Legal Services of Northern Michigan TC
adr;dom:;;;TC
email;internet:kavagahn@lsnm.org
title:Deputy Director
tel;work:231/941-5109
note:www.LSNM.org
url:http://LSNM.org
version:2.1
end:vcard

The Veterans Home Care LLC would fall w/in the definition regarding veteran benefits scams described below. Just substitute "loan" for "annuity" and you have the same issue. Scroll all the way down please.
I will provide more information as I receive it. Do not sign on with VHC.
MKG

Hi Everybody. I am interested to know if any of you have encountered elders

who were sold annuities by insurance agents promising to qualify them for

the Veterans Aid and Attendance pension, or any other pension offered by the

VA.

This scam, which is really just a variation on the trust mill, appears to be

spreading, and just yesterday, Montana's AG put out a warning about it:

http://www.doj.mt.gov/news/releases2010/20100701.asp

<https://mail.scccoa.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.doj.mt.gov/new

s/releases2010/20100701.asp>

My agency has been working with California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform

to try to get to the bottom of this scam for almost three years now, ever

since a nonprofit claiming to be affiliated with the VA unleashed a number

of insurance agents representing themselves as "volunteers" onto our local

senior centers, ostensibly to educate veterans about their benefits.  It was

a Trojan Horse scam of the worst sort.

 We are interested in speaking with any affected elders or other persons who

may have insight into this scam.  We are especially interested in speaking

with elders who would be willing to talk to media, though this is certainly

not a requirement.  It also doesn't matter what state the elder lives in.

Thank a bunch!

Shawna Reeves, MSW, Program Coordinator

Fair Lending Project for Seniors

Council on Aging Silicon Valley

2115 The Alameda, San Jose, CA  95126

408-350-3229 / sreeves@scccoa.org <mailto:sreeves@scccoa.org>

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Veteran Benefits scam- note that the hook is aid/attendance benefits

2010-10-26T11:41:00.001-07:00

Montana officials warn of scams targeting veterans

Several Montana officials gathered in Great Falls on Thursday to warn of scams that target veterans. They also announced the creation of an inter-agency working group to focus on preventing the financial exploitation of aging and disabled veterans.

Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Monica Lindeen, Attorney General Steve Bullock, and Veterans Affairs Division Director Joe Foster met with area veterans and their families at VFW Post 1087 to discuss the reported schemes.

According to veterans' advocates, the danger comes from unqualified individuals who set themselves up as financial advisors, claiming expertise in maximizing veterans benefits. While they sell themselves as experts, the advice they give to elderly or disabled veterans living in retirement communities and nursing homes across the state may actually put the veterans' financial future at risk.

Investigators with the Attorney General's Office of Consumer Protection and the Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Office are looking into allegations that this may be occurring in Montana.

Lindeen noted, "Criminals have no qualms about fabricating an affiliation with the military to gain trust. Salespeople have been known to peddle phony insurance and investment products, preying on military families' fears.and then disappearing with the money."

As Attorney General, Bullock oversees the Montana Department of Justice's Office of Consumer Protection; he said, "Our nation's aging veterans deserve to be protected, so today we are sending would-be scammers a message: 'We're watching and will take action against you,'"

The goal of the working group is to increase awareness of possible scams that target elderly or disabled veterans in nursing homes and assisted living centers.

According to Veterans Affairs Division Director Joe Foster, his agency has a staff of 21 assigned across the state to assist veterans in attaining their legitimate VA benefits and to serve as the veterans' advocate.

"These schemes, which aim to transfer elderly veterans' financial assets, are happening throughout the state," Foster said. "They are misleading, potentially fraudulent and financially devastating, and use VA pension and aid/attendance benefits as the 'hook.'"

Visit the Office of Consumer Protection website for more information and resources.

Mary Kavanaugh-Gahn(P53999)

Deputy Director

Legal Services of Northern Michigan

Traverse City, Michigan

www.lsnm.org

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Alzheimers Association Fundraiser, 8/26/10 4-6pm

2010-08-24T07:15:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder of our Alzheimers Association Fundraiser, 8/26/10 4-6pm.

See you there!

Thanks,

mas

WE'RE ON THE

MOVE

TO END ALZHEIMER'S

Fall Fun Fair

Fundraiser

Thursday

August 26, 2010

4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Entertainment -

Kate Botello as

Judy Garland

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO

ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION

Food – hot dogs, Moomer's ice cream, lemonade, chips, cherry pie, and more!

($5.00 min. donation)

Auction - 2 Season Tickets to Old Town Playhouse

And many more

Items!!!

Fun - Face Painter

The Village at Bay Ridge

3850 Scenic Ridge

Off Silver Lake Road

TC, 995-9385

Rain or Shine

Swingshift and The Stars invitation

2010-08-20T08:06:00.000-07:00

The Alzheimer's Association is very pleased to be one of the 6 charities that will benefit from this event. Also we are the ONLY older adult charity which is why it is important that you all support this event in some way. Rather it be a third party event with Heather and Mel dancing, an online donation or the best reserving your ticket for the upcoming dances and show your support at the event. I have attached an invitation letter to all of you. Hope to see you there dancing for Alzheimer's !!!

Chris Weaner

Regional Director

Northern Michigan Region

Alzheimer's Association-Greater Michigan Chapter

TC office 231-929-3804

Alpena office 989-956-4087

Please share with BASA

2010-08-20T08:05:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make sure that you are fully informed of Senior EmPower Day 2010 – The Power of FUN!

And, I’m hoping that you’ll share this information with the seniors that you serve. Please? J

I’ve attached the current press release and registration flyer for your information and distribution. The AAANM Board of Advisors would appreciate your assistance in spreading the word about this FUN event. And, we hope to see you at Timber Wolf Lake on September 24.

Don’t forget, registration by September 10^th is required.

Thanks for helping spread the good word,

dee

Dee N. Wilkinson, BS, CIRS-A, Housing Coordinator

Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan

1609 Park Drive, PO Box 5946

Traverse City, MI 49696-5946

231-947-8920 or 800-442-1713

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Senior Center Meet the Candidates

2010-07-16T13:03:00.000-07:00

Don’t miss this chance to meet candidates on the August primary ballot! They will be at the Senior Center to serve at our Fiesta Brunch on Thursday, July 22^nd. Make a reservation and enjoy a wonderful buffet served from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm. We’re having Zumba dancing, a Pinata, festive decorations and atmosphere. Great chance to see who you may be voting for!

Those who have RSVP’d for this event include:

104^th District State Representative Candidates: Glen Lile; Write In – John Scrudato;

County Commissioner Candidates: Dave Fink; Chris Maxbauer; Ross Richardson; John Roth; Ralph Soffredine; Curtis Warnes

86^th Circuit Judge Candidates: Melanie Stanton; Mike Stepka; Barbara Budros; Kevin Elsenheimer

U.S. Congressman Candidate: Jerry Campbell

Please call our lunch line at 947-5285 to make a reservation! Bring a friend – membership not required. We need a count ASAP!

60 foot Petition coming to Traverse City

2010-07-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

This is our chance to show that we in Northern Michigan will take a stand to
help our seniors, Come join us at Tendercare Traverse City this Friday from
11:00 - 12:00 for Driving for Quality Care.

YOU ARE INVITED!
Please join the residents, caregivers and family members from Tendercare
Traverse City in welcoming the Driving for Quality Care cross-country
petition tour! This national effort, sponsored by the American Health Care
Association (AHCA) and National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), will draw
attention to the vital need for emergency Medicaid relief (FMAP) for
America's rehabilitation and long term care centers and boost consumer
awareness of ongoing quality improvement successes.

At the event, members of our community will sign a 60 ft. petition to
President Obama, Congress and state Governors urging them make adequate
funding of Medicaid and Medicare a top priority, so that every U.S senior
can have access to the quality care that they need, expect and deserve.

The Driving for Quality Care RV will travel to 40 states and visit some of
the 2.5 million Americans cared for each day by the nearly 3 million
individuals who work in the long term and post-acute care profession.
Traverse City is the 14 of 60 cities the Driving for Quality Care tour will
visit as it crisscrosses the country.

Please join us at this exciting event and express your support for quality
rehabilitation and long term care for frail, elderly and disabled Americans!

WHEN: July 16
11:00

WHERE: 2585 LaFranier Rd
Traverse City Mi 49686

To follow the tour, visit www.drivingforqualitycare.com.

FW: 60 foot Petition coming to Traverse City

2010-07-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

Come join us at Tendercare Traverse City this Friday from 11:00 - 12:00 for
Driving for Quality Care.

Please join us at this exciting event and express your support for quality
rehabilitation and long term care for frail, elderly and disabled Americans!

WHEN: July 16
11:00

WHERE: 2585 LaFranier Rd
Traverse City Mi 49686

To follow the tour, visit www.drivingforqualitycare.com.

Kevin Hagler
Director of Provider Relations - Northwest Region
Extendicare
Cell# 231-313-7400
Fax# 231-947-0744
www.extendicare.com
EXTENDICARE . . . helping people live better

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

2010-06-16T16:50:00.000-07:00

FYI

Subject: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and Michigan Elder Abuse
Awareness Day

As reported by the National Center on Elder Abuse:

The national aging network works tirelessly to ensure that older Americans
remain independent, healthy, and safe in their homes and communities for as
long as possible. However, the independence of many seniors is threatened by
abusive situations ranging from financial exploitation to severe neglect.
The consequences of abuse, neglect, and exploitation are grave; and abusive
situations challenge all of the network's efforts to promote the well-being
of older adults. Victims face considerable higher risk for premature death
than elders who are not mistreated. There are tremendous economic costs as
well. A MetLife report released in 2009 estimates that $2.6 billion are
lost annually to elder financial exploitation.

** World Elder Abuse Awareness Day provides an opportunity for all of us to
raise awareness and commit to strengthen Michigan's elder abuse prevention
and intervention efforts. As you go through your day, doing the amazing
work you do to provide services and supports for older adults, please take a
moment to think about how your programs can partner with elder abuse
prevention efforts, raise awareness, and work to help Michigan's seniors
live free from abuse, neglect and exploitation. Attached please find a fact
sheet to share with your networks. Additional information is available at
www.ncea.aoa.gov **

2010 Michigan Elder Abuse Awareness Proclamation

Whereas, Approximately 1.7 million older adults, 65 years or older,
currently live in the state of Michigan; and, Whereas, Michigan's older
adults are active members in their communities and serve as leaders,
mentors, and volunteers; and,

Whereas, As valued members of this state, older adults should be able to
enjoy their senior years with dignity and without fear; and,

Whereas, It is estimated that one in five older adults have been abused,
neglected or exploited; and,

Whereas, Abuse inflicted on vulnerable older adults is a tragic event and is
an increasing problem that crosses all socioeconomic segments of the
population; and,

Whereas, Combating abuse of older adults will help improve their quality of
life and allow our older adults to live as independently as possible and
contribute to the vibrancy of Michigan;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of
the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 15, 2010, Elder Abuse
Awareness Day and the week of June 14, 2010, Elder Abuse Awareness Week in
Michigan. Residents can help prevent the abuse of Michigan's most senior
residents through public awareness to protect them.

Senate Bill 1331 - livable communities for seniors link: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2009-2010/billintroduced/Senate/pdf/2010-SIB-1331.pdf

2010-05-26T09:16:00.000-07:00

SB 1331 which requires planning commissions to consider the needs of senior citizens. This bill is co-sponsored by Sen. Jason Allen and has been sent to the senate Senior Citizens committee that he chairs.

Maple Valley Nursing Home in Maple City has received a 5 Star Rating from the CMS/MEDICARE

2010-05-11T11:40:00.001-07:00

Maple Valley Nursing Home in Maple City has received a 5 Star Rating from the CMS/MEDICARE Nursing Home Compare website (www.medicare.gov/nhcompare)

and also a 5 Star Rating from the Best Michigan Nursing Homes website (www.bestminursinghomes.com) Only about 11% of the Nursing Homes in Michigan receive the 5 Star Rating. There are only 2 facilities in this area to receive this rating.

Alzheimer's Association's Traverse City Evening Brochure

2010-05-05T06:48:00.000-07:00

Please read the attached brochure.

Virus Warning

2010-04-28T07:53:00.001-07:00

FYI TO ALL

Dave's brother is a very advanced programmer who does computer work for a living and has a high up status with Microsoft. He doesn't send these if they aren't real.   If he says this is for real,   Be aware!

                                                       VIRUS COMING !
    Hi All,
    I checked with Norton Anti-Virus, and they are gearing up for this virus!
    I checked Snopes, and it is for real. Get this E-mail message sent around to your contacts ASAP.

PLEASE FORWARD THIS WARNING AMONG FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CONTACTS!

You should be alert during the next few days. Do not open any message with an attachment entitled 'POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK,'regardless of who sent it to you. It is a virus which opens A POSTCARD IMAGE, which 'burns' the whole hard disc C of your computer.

This virus will be received from someone who has your e-mail address in his/her contact list. This is the reason why you need to send this e-mail to all your contacts. It is better to receive this message 25 times than to receive the virus and open it.

If you receive a mail called' POSTCARD,' even though sent to you by a friend, do not open it! Shut down your computer immediately. This is the worst virus announced by CNN.

It has been classified by Microsoft as the most destructive virus ever. This virus was discovered by McAfee yesterday, and there is no repair yet for this kind of virus. This virus simply destroys the Zero Sector of the Hard Disc, where the vital information is kept.

COPY THIS E-MAIL, AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS.
REMEMBER: IF YOU SEND IT TO THEM, YOU WILL BENEFIT ALL OF US

NYTimes.com: The New Old Age: In the Health Bill, a New Focus on Elder Abuse

2010-04-23T07:53:00.001-07:00

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HEALTH | April 23, 2010
The New Old Age: In the Health Bill, a New Focus on Elder Abuse
By JANE GROSS
Tucked into the new health care law is $777 million for the prevention of abuse to the elderly.



Copyright 2010 The New York Times Company \| Privacy Policy

Alzheimer's Association Relocation

2010-04-14T11:17:00.001-07:00

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The Alzheimer's Association 's is moving to the Old Munson Hall effective April 21st. New address is

921 W. 11th Street Suite 1W, Traverse City MI 49684

Phone number 231-929-3804 will remain the same. Due to the move the office will be closed from April 15-21, but can be reached via email chris.weaner@alz.org and through our 24 hour helpline 800-272-3900

An open house is planned for early summer....more details later

FW: Parkinsons Summer Form looking for sponsors

2010-03-31T11:47:00.001-07:00

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As many are aware, this year marks the 25^th anniversary of the Grand Traverse Area Support Groups. The Annual Summer Forum will feature the renowned and respected Dr. Stanley Fahn, M.D., Scientific Director of the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation and Chairperson of the Parkinson’s Community Research Advisory Council of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson Research. Also at the event, will be special guest Rashead Ali, daughter of boxing champion Mohamed Ali.

Rasheda Ali is an internationally known author and speaker who was inspired to write her book, I’ll Hold Your Hand So You Won’t Fall – A Child’s Guide to Parkinson’s Disease, by watching the interaction between her children and her father, who suffers from Parkinson disease. “Unlike when I was a child, my kids are seeing the visible signs of Parkinson disease and have questions I never had because my dad’s symptoms were much more subtle when I was growing up”. While in Traverse City, Rasheda will visit Eastern Elementary School, make a presentation at the Annual Summer Forum, and then later speak at an evening dinner event hosted by the Grand Traverse Area Parkinon’s Support Group. This event reaches out to the greater Grand Traverse community to raise awareness for Parkinson’s Disease and the resources that are available through the Grand Traverse Area Parkinson’s Support Group for families that are afflicted with this disease. The event will feature dinner, cash bar, and the featured speaker. Ticket price $75 and approximate goal for attendance is 100+

Sponsorships are needed for this event and will offer an amazing marketing opportunity through the event and also customized radio ads for your business now through September! Please see the attachment for more information on the event and the sponsorship opportunities, or feel free to contact me directly with any questions!

Meredith Hawes

Fire & Life Safety Public Educator

Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department

897 Parsons Road

Traverse City, MI 49686

(231)947-3000 Ext. 1234

(231)534-5121

fax (231)947-8728

mhawes@gtmetrofire.org

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FW: RSVP Volunteer Luncheon

2010-03-31T11:16:00.001-07:00

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April 1, 2010

Dear Senior Advocates:

On May 5, 2010 the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) will host their 39^th annual recognition event for senior volunteers at the Holiday Inn in Traverse City at noon.

You can help make this year’s recognition outlined on the attached form a success by becoming an event sponsor. We have many options. Approximately 300 senior volunteers and agency representatives will be in attendance. This is an excellent way to promote your business to active adults age 55 and older as well as a variety of public and nonprofit organizations.

RSVP places adults age 55 and older in meaningful volunteer opportunities in their local communities. We presently have over 500 volunteers registered who, in 2009, donated over 40,000 hours to 218 nonprofit agencies in Antrim, Benzie, Kalkaska, Leelanau and Grand Traverse counties. RSVP is a component of the Volunteer Center at the United Way of Northwest Michigan. In addition RSVP is affiliated with the National Senior Service Corps under the Corporation for National and Community Service.

We hope you will become an active partner as we celebrate and recognize senior volunteers for their commitment to making northwest Michigan a better place in which to live and work. Enclosed is information that further explains the various levels of event sponsorship and participation.

If you have any questions, please call our office at 231-947-3200 Ext. 205 or e-mail susan@unitedwaynwmi.org. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Susan L. McQuaid                                                                                            Melissa Miles
Director Volunteer Center/RSVP                                                                              RSVP Coordinator
United Way of Northwest Michigan

Steven Wade
Executive Director
United Way of Northwest Michigan

Press Release: 2010 "Ideas for Life" Senior Expo

2010-03-31T11:15:00.001-07:00

NEWS RELEASE
Date: March 31, 2010

Contact:
Rachel Krino, Expo Media Chair, Bay Area Senior Advocates
Bailey Designs & Consulting
baileydesigns@charter.net
www.tcseniorexpo.org
231-930-4946 (office)

2010 Ideas for Life Senior Expo To Be Held May 19, 2010: FREE ADMISSION

Traverse City, MI –The Bay Area Senior Advocates (B.A.S.A.) are proud to announce their 9th Annual “Ideas for Life Senior Expo”, held May 19th at the Traverse City Civic Center from 10 am - 4 pm. This community-based event is a celebration for older adults, highlighting nutrition, health, wellness, education and advocacy. This event will have FREE ADMISSION thanks to our generous sponsors.

In addition to support provided by B.A.S.A., the 2010 “Ideas for Life Senior Expo” is co-sponsored by WCCW, Culver Meadows and several other community organizations. Please check out their website for this year’s sponsors – www.tcseniorexpo.org.

Since its inception, the Traverse City based group's mission was to educate about and advocate for the needs of our aging community. Through collaboration and strong volunteerism, Bay Area Senior Advocates has developed Ideas for Life Senior Expo aimed at that very same goal of education, advocacy and collaboration.

With over 110 exhibitors last year, this one day event features many local and statewide services available to our aging parents and/or spouses. The 2010 “Ideas For Life” Senior Expo will take place between 10 am - 4 pm, with all day Educational Seminars. Visitors will have a chance to win door prizes and give-aways, and enjoy refreshments and entertainment.

For more information on the 2010 “Ideas For Life” Senior Expo, contact Expo Chair:

Connie Hinstala, The Alliance
Ph: (231) 883-5028
thealliance@centurytel.net

Through the collaboration of the many B.A.S.A.-member organizations dedicated to serving aging individuals we've developed several educational opportunities for our community.

They include:

· Opportunities to visit our exhibitors from 10 am – 4 pm, with door prizes possible throughout the day.

· A full day of special activities wrapped around the main exhibit hall including a senior lunch provided by Meals on Wheels, wellness screenings, and interactive opportunities provided by our Exhibitors.

· Educational Seminars, including a “Lunch Box” seminar, available for both individuals and senior service providers to gain important service information for both loved ones and clients.

B.A.S.A. members are proud to announce that this year there will be no charge to attend the 2010 “Ideas for Life” Senior Expo.

2010 “Ideas for Life” Senior Expo is designed to enrich the lives of older adults in this region by presenting in one convenient location a wide range of programs and services that are available to older adults.

“We’re really excited about the growth of this event over the last couple years and we anticipate this to be our largest year yet,” stated Rachel Krino, Media Coordinator. “This year we’re looking to bring in more interactive exhibitors and high quality educational seminars.”

As the primary presenter of 2010 “Ideas for Life” Senior Expo, Bay Area Senior Advocates (B.A.S.A.) was originally formed in 1995 as the Bay Area Older Adults Services Partnership, a division of the Human Services Coordinating Council that provided ongoing assessment of public and private service being offered to older adults in Grand Traverse and Leelanau counties.

Specific objectives of B.A.S.A. have included efficient coordination of existing services, identification and prioritization of service gaps and needs, increased collaborative service delivery, and community-wide, cross agency planning for future needs of the area’s elderly population.

B.A.S.A.’s membership consists of public and private sector service providers, older adults, advocates and other community leaders. Currently the B.A.S.A. has over 80 member organizations. For more information about B.A.S.A., please contact B.A.S.A.’s President Becky Osborne at Fifth Third Private Bank at 231-995-4585.

###

FREE Cataract Surgery To Those That Qualify

2010-03-24T10:58:00.001-07:00

Cedar Run Eye Clinic giving free cataract surgery to anyone in need
without insurance. They also are set up to take donations to help defray
the product costs. These professionals said no one should go blind just
because they can't afford a 15 minute surgery. Wonderful people!

ELDER JUSTICE BILLS CLEAR CONGRESS, OBAMA TO SIGN INTOLAW

2010-03-24T10:57:00.001-07:00

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FW: Census news

2010-03-13T10:04:00.001-08:00

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Here is the link to an article we have about the snowbirds and the census.

http://www.prioritymedicare.com/news-detail/snowbirds_your_census_form_matters_to_michigan

Provided by Priority Health

List of Area Resources

2010-03-11T07:52:00.001-08:00

The following is a list of resources available in each area, provided by Grand Traverse Commission on Aging. Pots of money get spent quickly so what we have today may be gone in a week or less.

Please have staff or the family call the Community Services Rep if there is a question on funding or different ways to help their client. Current as of 3/10/10

Northern Office (Emmet, Charlevoix, Antrim counties) 1-800-443-5518
Housing: ESG-help for homeless and prevention (Antrim in T.C.) Foreclosure-counseling available

Utility Limited electric, deliverable and gas in Emmet county only

Food CSFP and TEFAP programs depending on child status and
age (next TEFAP is June)
Budget Counseling

IDA Savings program for education, home, business
Weatherization: Referral needed to get on waiting list
CDBG For Emmet and Charlevoix counties
Housing Preservation Grant For Emmet county
Southern Office (Wexford, Missaukee, Roscommon counties) 1-800-443-2297
Housing: homeless prevention, special rent subsidies
Foreclosure counseling available
Utility Wx, Ms, Rosc have deliverable fuel and limited electric and gas
Food CSFP and TEFAP programs depending on child status and age
Budget Counseling Household money management plan
IDA Savings program for education, home, business
Weatherization Referral needed to get on waiting list
CDBG Home improvement program for Missaukee and Wexford counties.

Housing Preservation Grant Repair funds for Wexford and Miss. counties.
Central Office (Grand Traverse, Benzie, Kalkaska, Leelanau) Antrim some)
1-800-632-7334
Housing: ESG – help for eviction, mortgage arrearage, homeless Case management only
Foreclosure counseling
Special rent subsidies when available
Utility Deliverable fuels for all 4 counties
Limited electric and gas

Food CSFP and TEFAP programs depending on child status and age

Budget Counseling GT, Bz, Lee, call office for Triage. Packett will be sent to customer
Mi Enrolls for Medicaid Counseling
IDA Savings program for education, home, business
Weatherization Referral needed to get on waiting list
CDBG Home improvement program for Benzie county.
Housing Preservation Grant Repair funds for Grand Traverse, Benzie and Kalkaska counties.

First Time Homebuyer counseling and workshops- T.C., Petoskey, Cadillac
Financial Fitness Workshops-Counseling monthly T.C., Petoskey, Cadillac, Mancelona, Leelanau, Benzie
Bankruptcy, loan document review and Debtor Education- calls go to Petoskey
Grand Traverse Neighborhood Meeting-third Tuesday of January-November TC (support for those experiencing poverty)
Budget/Crisis Counseling MI Works offices-Cadillac, Petoskey, Traverse City
Mini IDA savings, budget counseling, crisis management for unemployed or underemployed

FW: BASA FW: Hospice of Michigan's Except for Six

2010-03-09T12:29:00.001-08:00

On April 22^nd, 2010 at 11am Hospice of Michigan is going to be showing our Documentary called Except for Six, at the Traverse City State Theater. This is an amazing film that will make you laugh, and cry and remind you to make every moment count. Our goal is to increase awareness about what hospice services are, who is eligible to receive hospice care, and help to minimize some of the myths about end of life care. The FREE showing of the film will be from 11am-12pm., with a FREE lunch immediately following.

We have been serving the greater northern Michigan territory out of our Cadillac office for over 30 years, but we are excited to have our new location in Traverse City on 900 E. Front Street.

Attached is a flyer. Please print off and hang in your place of business!! I appreciate the continued support of BASA members, and hope to see you all there.

Fundraiser at MOOMERS for Hospice

2010-03-09T12:16:00.001-08:00

Please see attached flyer for way to support Hospice.

2010 Ideas for Life Senior Expo Education Seminars Announced

2010-02-27T09:50:00.001-08:00

Senior Expo 2010 Educational Seminars

Brain Health- Feed It, Train It, Enrich It

10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

When we think about staying fit, we generally think from the neck down. But brain health plays a critical role in almost everything we do - thinking, feeling, remembering, working playing - even sleeping. The good news is we now know there are things we can do to keep our brain healthier. Join us as we explore ways to keep our brains fit.

Presenters:

Sandy Larson, RD

Sandy is a registered dietician and has worked with seniors for over 20 years. Her position with Lutheran Social Services of Michigan entails quarterly reviews, resident assessments, menu planning and in servicing. Sandy enjoys grocery shopping, meal planning and cooking. We will learn how food effects our brain.

Chris Weaner, Alzheimer’s Association

Chris is the Regional Director of the NorthWest/Northeastern regions of Michigan. She has worked hard to get Alzheimer’s disease out in the open and to get rid of the sigmas. She will share some interactive techniques to keep our brains healthy.

Marilyn Wares, Harpist

Marilyn’s interest in the harp developed when she took a harp class for cancer survivors. Her husband was so interested in the positive effect that playing this instrument had on his wife, he designed what became know as the Tranquility Harp. Marilyn will share with us the wonderful impact on the comfort, joy and serenity that learning to play the harp can have on both those that play and hear it.

Lunch-N-Learn

Senior Services 101 - Navigating the System

12 noon-1:30 p.m.

Come to this lunch-and-learn prepared to have a fun time while learning about senior services and how to get connected. Whether a senior or care giver for a senior, the panelists will provide valuable insights into navigating what can be an overwhelming system of service and support options. Box lunches can be enjoyed during the formal presentations right in the conference room. Then be ready to test the panelists on their senior service knowledge by participating in “The Expo Game Show”. Taking questions from our M.C., Mike Sheehan and attendees, the three panelists will share more information and tips for getting the help that you need in a light-hearted game show atmosphere. Prizes will be provided to attendees!

Presenters:

Lana Patenaude

Lana is the Office Specialist at the Grand Traverse County Commission on Aging. Her primary responsibilities include coordination the COA’s participation in area special events and working with Grand Traverse County seniors who are in need of financial assistance.

Lori Wells, BA, CIR-A

Lori has been the director of Traverse City Senior Center since 1991. She is responsible for the operations of the Senior Center which has over 100 programs, including an ambitious travel schedule and over 200 members. Lori has held the credential Senior Director Certified with the Michigan Association of Senior Centers since 1994. More recently, Lori was certified in Information and Assistance by the national Alliance of Information & Referral Systems (AIRS), validating her expertise and knowledge of the field of Information and Assistance for seniors in our community.

Dee N. Wilkinson, BS, CIRS-A

Dee is the Housing Coordinator for Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan (AAANM). Dee began her career in senior services in 1986. She was employed as a Nutrition Program Assistant, Director of a Senior Meals Program and a Senior Center Director before joining AAANM in 1991. Dee has worn many hats at AAANM-contracting, public relations, technical assistance, events coordination and more. Just prior to accepting her current role, she served nine years as the Information and Assistance Specialist for the agency. Dee maintains her national Information and Assistance certification through the Alliance of Information & Referral Systems (AIRS).

Stages of Life Care- “Marching through Time”

2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Take a brief trip forward - through the stages of aging with this one hour seminar. Begin with an active life style and progress through the various stages of aging, and the accompanying support for your heart, mind and soul. We all will travel this road - lets travel it knowingly! Presenters are knowledgeable representatives of the various stages of life care and will give a short synopsis of services and life style available with their support and guidance.

Presenters:

Kat Brown, Experience Works

A national, charitable, community-based organization that helps older adults get the training they need to find good jobs in their communities.

Janis Russell, Home Instead Senior Care

A company that specializes in providing in home companion, home helper and personal care aimed at keeping you in your own home safely and joyfully.

John Baynton, Cedar Creek Commons Senior Apartments

Cedar Creek Commons offers the finest in senior accommodations. Available homes include one, two, and three bedroom apartments complete with full kitchens and private balcony.

Jo Panter,Hope Village

Hope Village provides beauty, privacy and gracious living to its residents, offering a variety of opportunities for community living activities and companionship within an atmosphere of caring.

Kevin Hagler, Tendercare Nursing Home & Rehabilitation

Tendercare a leading provider of long-term skilled nursing care in Michigan with a full continuum of services, including special care units and full cycle rehabilitation programs.

Jenn Simmer, Hospice of Michigan

Hospice provides specialized health care services for people with terminal illness and support for their loved ones. These services focus on comfort measures and pain control, or palliative care.

Vaughn Seavolt, Life Story Funeral Home

Dedicated to Life and Memories not Death and Caskets. When the experience of the funeral is over the memories that were recorded at a Life Story Funeral along with the Life Story will be shared for generations to come.

Zonta Club of Traverse City Mini-Grant Applications available

2010-02-26T12:02:00.001-08:00

The Zonta Club of Traverse City is accepting mini-grant (up to $2500)
applications through April 1, 2010. The applications are available on
Zonta's website, http://www.zontacluboftraversecity.org/aboutus.html,
or by contacting Stephanie Anable, sanable@charter.net or
231-947-4685. There are very limited funds this cycle and Zonta
anticipates awarding a smaller number of grants than usual.

Parkinson Foundation elects two new members

2010-02-21T10:24:00.001-08:00

The Oakland Press (theoaklandpress.com), Serving Oakland County

Life

GOOD HEALTH: Health briefs

Sunday, January 31, 2010

BINGHAM FARMS

Parkinson Foundation elects two new members

The Board of Directors of the Michigan Parkinson Foundation recently elected two new individuals. The appointments were announced by Chief Executive Officer Deborah Orloff. Newly elected was attorney Tyrone Baharozian of Berkley. He practices general law, initially serving as an assistant city attorney and an assistant prosecutor. Baharozian, whose mother had Parkinson’s, has been very actively involved in MPF walk-a-thons.

Also elected was Maxine Meach of Traverse City, who founded the Grand Traverse Area Parkinson’s Education and Support Program more than 20 years ago. Her husband, Charles, had Parkinson’s disease and she recognized the education and support needs of people affected by the disease and their families. She has been very active in the organization in the Grand Traverse region, fostering services, education and support, including the Summer Forum, which attracts more than 200 people from around the state the first Thursday in June.

— Staff writer Jerry Wolffe

Mother Knows Best.and Daughters Can, Too!

2010-02-10T18:16:00.001-08:00

Mother Knows Best…and Daughters Can, Too!

Join us at 6 pm on February 23^rd, 2010 at

Bowers Harbor Vineyards to discuss and

learn about what it means to be a Caregiver.

Special guest speaker, Kristin Harrison from

Munson Home Health will give you helpful insight on what being a Caregiver is and different options to help your loved one live better.

Cost is $5 to attend but will include appetizers

and samples of Bowers Harbor wines.

Please RSVP by calling 231-223-7615.

Hosted by:

EXTENDICARE . . . helping people live better

25th ANNUAL PARKINSON'S SUMMER FORUM - Speaker Announced

2010-02-10T18:14:00.000-08:00

Traverse Area Parkinson’s Support Group is announcing their keynote Speaker for the 25^th ANNUAL PARKINSON’S SUMMER FORUM to be held on June 3^{rd ,}2010 at the NWM College Hagerty Center in Traverse City, MI.

Stanley Fahn, M.D. is the H. Houstan Meritt Professor of Neurology and the Director of the Center for Parkinson’s Disease and Other Movement Disorders at Columbia University, New York City. He is the Scientific Director of the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation.

Dr. Fahn has published many scientific papers on Parkinson’s Disease and other movement disorders. He currently Chairs the Parkinson’s Community Research Advisory Council of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Disease Research.

Bay Area Senior Advocates (BASA) celebrates another success story!

2010-02-10T18:11:00.000-08:00

The combined efforts of BASA Member organizations and businesses have proven to positively affect the lives of area seniors. One recent success story is that of area resident Terry Berth. Terry’s situation was brought to the attention BASA through one of its members, Kristin Harrison of Munson Home Health, who became aware of Terry’s situation through their work together in their local church (Windward).

Terry was struggling financially after being let go from his job. He received help from friends and his church, however, being 58 years old he was not eligible for standard forms of senior assistance.

The perfect storm - a recessed economy, increased competition for jobs, and age-related employment barriers - has created a crisis for America’s older low-income workers. Being between 55 and 62 years of age is also very challenging if you are unemployed because this age group many times fall “between the cracks” as they are not eligible for many standard resources and assistance. The unemployment rate for this age group is the highest since the Bureau of Labor Statistics began tabulating data by age in 1948.

BASA has a Senior Support Team that provides support to adults 50+, accessing available resources, navigating the systems and at times providing limited financial support in emergency situations. Terry’s advocate explored all available resources and services, provided a one-time assistance check of $300.00 to help him with back rent.

Terry Berth had contacted the local Experience Works program, the nation’s largest provider of temporary paid-training and employment opportunities for low-income seniors, and worked with Experience Works assistant, Kat Brown to help him find a job. Terry needed income documentation from his former employer, which proved all but impossible to receive due to the nature in which employees were paid, via a debit card. A “standard pay stub” which was not available, nor any other “written proof of income” prohibited Terry from moving forward within the process to become a participant within the Experience Works program. At this point Terry contacted Lori Wells of the Traverse City Senior Center soliciting her help accessing his work history via computer, he was having difficulty communicating his needs to automated telephones and impersonal office personnel. He needed someone to be his advocate, to make the calls, to navigate through the system just to discern his eligibility for Experience Works job placement.

Lori Wells soon came to understand Terry’s frustration. Only an approved user of the automated system could gain access to Terry’s work history. After reviewing a list of approved users, Lori turned to the local Manpower office and Carol Ross, Branch Manager, for her assistance in getting Experience Works the income documentation needed to discern his eligibility for the program. “Lori and Kat went above and beyond… I know they didn’t have to put as much into helping me as they did… but now I have hope!”

“Without Lori’s assistance and the concerted effort of all of these agencies and businesses working collectively, I don’t think Terry would be happily training at his Host Agency, the Salvation Army Thrift Store as a Custodian through the Experience Works program in hopes of getting another job in the near future”, says Lynne Ruden, Employment Training Coordinator for 13 counties in northern Michigan for Experience Works. “Thank you all!”

Personal Emergency Response System Cost assistance

2010-02-10T18:09:00.001-08:00

In these tough economic times, referring your patients and family members to Lifeline could protect them from costly repercussions. For your patients every penny counts.

The Munson lifeline program would like to assist them in covering some of the initial install and activation cost. They are offering free activation as well as the 1st months monitoring fee free through the end of February.

To take advantage of this fantastic offer please call 1-866-674-9900, ext 4474....Use coupon code A269DND7MI016

If you feel this is worthwhile to B.A.S.A members please pass this along.

Thank You

Dale Gauthier

Lifeline Community Outreach Manager

Munson Home Care

231-935-9133 Desk

231-645-0555 Cell

ggauthier1@mhc.net

Funeral Home offers Cemetery Marker Program

2010-02-10T18:06:00.001-08:00

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. Life Story Funeral Home is offering a program to help families in financial need place cemetery markers on unmarked graves.

Many people cannot afford to purchase a marker for the grave. Vaughn Seavolt, owner of Life Story Funeral Home says, “I want to help those in financial need. For me, the funeral business is a passion, a ministry and helping people, not just about business. I feel it is sad when a grave is unmarked. Helping to mark a grave of a child is especially close to my heart. In 2009 I had the honor of helping a family mark the grave of their son and brother, whom died at birth 7 year earlier and a lady that was murdered 33 years ago. The program allows me to make a difference for those whom died and the lives of the surviving family member. ” says Seavolt.

The program will help those in financial need purchase markers so the grave doesn’t continue to be unmarked. Markers will be significantly discounted from retail cost. “I have the ability to get unique sizes and colors at reduced pricing for even lower costs. I also have contacts that may be able to help the family with funds that meet specific criteria” say Seavolt.

Some restrictions will be placed on the program. Seavolt says, “I truly want to help those in financial need, so I am limiting the program to burials that took place over 1 year ago. However, a case-by-case situation will be evaluated for families under the 1-year criteria.” Cemetery restrictions and charges will apply.

The program will run through April 1, 2010. To ensure delivery for Memorial Day, orders need to be placed early. Life Story Funeral Home is a locally owned full service funeral home, offering Cremation and Cemetery Burial programs. See a professionally-written Life Story® in print, digital film on the web, at www.lifestorynet.com. If you need financial assistance in marking an unmarked grave, contact Vaughn Seavolt at 231.941.9034.

Falling Issues

2009-10-25T14:04:00.001-07:00

Are you alone several hours of the day or night?

In the past year have you fallen or have been afraid of falling in your own home?

Have you been hospitalized or been to an emergency room in the last year?

Do you have one of the following chronic ailments: heart disease, stroke, COPD, osteoporosis, diabetes or arthritis?

Do you use a cane or walker, wheelchair, stair climber, or other assistive device to help with balance or walking?

Are you required to take several daily medications?

Do you need assistance with one of the following activities: bathing, toileting, dressing, meal preparation etc.

Would a medical alert provide peace of mind for your or your loved ones?

Is it important to you to continue living independently?

(lifeline bro. #MKT2016)

Falls in the home can occur in bathrooms, bedrooms and on stairs. The following checklist is designed to help anyone who has mobilization issues in the home, whether it be from hip surgery, knee surgery, car accident or has that fall potential. Mobility and fall issues have no boundaries when it comes to age, anyone can fall.

1) Paint the edges of outdoor steps and steps that are especially narrow or are higher of lower than the rest.

2) Paint outside stairs with a mixture of sand and paint for better traction. Keep Outdoor walkways clear and well-lit.

3) Clear snow and ice from entrances and walkways.

4) Inside your home, remove all extraneous clutter.

5) Keep telephone and electrical cords out of pathways.

6)Tack rugs and glue vinyl flooring so they lie flat. Remove or replace rugs or runners that tend to slip or attach nonslip backing.

7) Do not stand on a chair to reach things. Store frequently used objects where you can reach them easily.

8) Have a lamp or light switch that can easily be reached without getting out of bed.

9) Use night lights in the bedroom, bathroom and hallways.

10) Keep a flashlight handy.

11)Have light switches at both ends of stairs and halls. Install handrails on both sides of stairs.

12) Add grab bars in shower, tub and toilet area.

13) Use nonslip adhesive in shower or tub.

14) Consider sitting on a bench or stool in the shower.

15) Consider using an elevated toilet seat.

16) Use helping devices such as canes or walker as directed by your health care provider.

17) Wear nonslip, low healed shoes or slippers that fit snugly. Avoid walking around in stocking feet.

18) Review medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Some drugs, including over the counter drugs , can make you drowsy, dizzy or unsteady.

19) Discuss safe amounts of alcohol intake with your physician.

20) Have your hearing and eyesight tested. Inner ear problems can affect your balance. Vision problems make it difficult to see potential hazards.

21) Exercise regularity to improve muscle flexibility, strength and balance. Talk to your healthcare professional about exercise programs that are right for you.

22) If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, sit down or stay seated until your head clears. Stand up slowly to avoid unsteadiness.

Gain confidence to maintain your independence.

A study reported in the New England Journal of Medicine found that "preventing falls and the resulting injuries can reduce or delay the need to move to a long term facility".

Dale Gauthier, Lifeline Community Outreach Manager, Munson Home Care.

ggauthier1@mhc.net

231...

(Ref. Lifeline Marketing Bro. MKT MKT1511)

(Tinetti, New England Journal of Medicine, 1997:337:1279:1284)

(Ref. LL Bro. Mkt 01702)

Aging In Place

2009-10-25T14:03:00.002-07:00

As aging baby boomers consider staying in their homes, Universal Design and Aging in Place will be gaining more momentum in the years to come.

What Is Universal Design and Aging in Place? Universal Design is a concept that focuses on comfort, ease of access, and maneuverability within homes for all people, while aging in place is a popular lifestyle option for seniors preferring to safely and independently live in their homes.

Did You Know? According to AARP, 89% of people 50+ wish to remain in their own homes indefinitely (AARP) and 75% of remodelers have seen an increase in requests for aging in place work (NAHB).

Suggested Aging In Place home modifications include: - Installing lights strategically to maintain a well-lit hallway - Having non-slip interior and exterior flooring - Replacing knobs with levers handles - Setting up cabinetry with rollout cabinets and lazy susans - Mounting adequate handrails for stairways and ramps

NAHB, in partnership with AARP and the NAHB Research Center , has created a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) program to teach remodeling professionals how to modify homes specifically geared towards Aging-In-Place. For more information, you can visit their website at http://www.nahb.org/generic.aspx?sectionID=717&genericContentID=46799.

Helpful Universal Design and Aging in Place links:

Toolbase.org- http://www.toolbase.org/ToolbaseResources/level3.aspx?BucketID=2&CategoryID=22

AARP- http://www.aarp.org/families/home_design/universaldesign/a2004-03-23-whatis_univdesign.html

NAHB Aging in Place Checklist- http://www.nahb.org/generic.aspx?sectionID=717&genericContentID=89801

Center for Universal Design- http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/

By HomeSavvi- Your Home for Home Remodeling at http://www.homesavvi.com .

Fraud Advisory: Jury Duty Scam

2009-10-25T14:03:00.001-07:00

You receive an official-sounding call telling you that a warrant has been issued for your arrest because you failed to appear for jury duty.

When you protest that you never received a notice, the caller asks for your Social Security number and date of birth so the information can be verified and the arrest warrant cancelled.

Never give out personal information on the phone if you did not initiate the call.

Proposed Blue Cross Blue Shield Legislation

2009-10-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

In response to a package of bills being considered to reform Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) (House Bills 5282-5285) a coalition of strange bedfellows was introduced in Lansing this week, called the Put People Over Profits Coalition (www.PutPeopleOverProfits.com). PPOP is a collection of consumer advocates, insurance companies and business leaders, all of which are opposed to this package of bills. The 40+ groups in the PPOP Coalition include the Area Agencies on Aging Association, Michigan Disability Rights Coalition, Michigan Association of Health Plans, UAW, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, AARP, Aetna, Citizens Insurance, Michigan State Medical Society, Michigan Osteopathic Association, Delta Dental and Michigan Insurance Coalition. Editorials against the bills have appeared in Crain’s Detroit Business, the Grand Rapids Press, Saginaw News and Flint Journal At a Capitol press conference, PPOP urged the Legislature to maintain the charitable mission of BCBSM and keep insurance affordable and accessible to seniors and people with health conditions. “Older and sicker residents will be priced out of the insurance market if the Blues bills become law,” according to Mary Ablan, Director of the Area Agencies on Aging Association and PPOP Co-Chair. “When it comes to providing affordable access to health care, having as much as 30 cents of every premium dollar siphoned off for profits is unconscionable.” said Co-Chair RoAnne Chaney of the Michigan Disability Rights Coalition. “The last Attorney General intervention in early 2007 reduced a Blue Cross rate increase request from 50% to 19%, saving older Michiganians and persons with disabilities about $97.5 million in the first year and about $70 million thereafter,” noted Dolores Coulter, attorney and Chair of the Elder Law and Disability Rights Section of the State Bar of Michigan. Coulter is speaking about one aspect of the legislation that would allow BCBSM to raise premiums at will, without state approval or the oversight of the Attorney General. After the press conference, the Senate Health Policy Committee heard testimony from BCBSM praising the bills, and two coalitions of insurance companies opposing them. Committee Chair Tom George, M.D. questioned the need for a risk pool and the other dramatic changes in the bills since Michigan has lower insurance premiums than most states and a lower percentage of uninsured. Next week, the committee will hear testimony from Attorney General Mike Cox and the Michigan Office of Financial and Insurance Services. The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, February 6, 3 – 5 pm, in the Senate Hearing Room on the Ground Floor of Boji Tower, 124 W. Allegan Street in downtown Lansing

2009 "Ideas for Life" Senior Expo

2009-03-19T12:54:00.000-07:00

8th Annual Ideas for Life Senior Expo 2009

May 20, 2009

10am to 6pm

Grand Traverse County Civic Center

Bay Area Senior Advocates (B.A.S.A) are proud to announce their 8th Annual Ideas for Life Senior Expo. Since it's inception, the Traverse City based group's mission was to educate about and advocate for the needs of our aging community. Through collaboration and strong volunteerism, B.A.S.A. has developed Ideas for Life Senior Expo aimed at that very same goal of education, advocacy and collaboration. With over 100 vendors, this one day event features all day educational seminars and many local statewide services available to our aging parents and /or spouses.

Bay Area Senior Advocates

January 2012 Commission Report

Action Alert: Reauthorize OAA!

Send a loud message: "We Must Reauthorize the Older Americans Act!"

PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR RECEIPTS - THIS IS IMPORTANT

State errs in taking homes | Lansing State Journal | lansingstatejournal.com

National Memory Screening Day

NAPIS Report

Legislative Report from CSA

C.L.A.S.S. Act and Long Term Care

Michigan State budget news....

Welcome to the 26th Annual Parkinson's Summer Forum

Senior Summit Save the Date

Advocacy Alert: Contact Congress on Drastic Budget Proposals

URGENT HELP NEEDED FOR THE SENIOR COMPANION AND FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAMS!

Please take the Community Needs Assessment

Action Needed to save Senior Companion and Foster Grandparent Programs

URGENT ALERT: Oppose Historic Cuts to Senior Programs!

03/2011 Legislative Updates

URGENT-YOUR HELP IS NEEDED TO SAVE THE SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM

the new Snyder Budget and how it impacts the older citizens of Michigan

SPEAK OUT AGAINST MORE CUTS IN OSA AGING SERVICES

Northern Michigan could lose several community services

Budget plan could burden senior citizens

Available Senior Aid

Medicare News March 2011

Dental Clinics North welcomes back adults enrolled in Medicaid

Open House: Community Services Block Grant Budget Cut-Impact Assessment

CALL YOUR MEMBER OF CONGRESS TODAY!

BASA Support Requested: Upcoming Events and Fundraisers

Deaf / Hearing loss presentation

FW: BE Aware FW: [MI Elder Law] FW: veterans benefits scams

Veteran Benefits scam- note that the hook is aid/attendance benefits

Montana officials warn of scams targeting veterans

Alzheimers Association Fundraiser, 8/26/10 4-6pm

Swingshift and The Stars invitation

Please share with BASA

Senior Center Meet the Candidates

60 foot Petition coming to Traverse City

FW: 60 foot Petition coming to Traverse City

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Senate Bill 1331 - livable communities for seniors link: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2009-2010/billintroduced/Senate/pdf/2010-SIB-1331.pdf

Maple Valley Nursing Home in Maple City has received a 5 Star Rating from the CMS/MEDICARE

Alzheimer's Association's Traverse City Evening Brochure

Virus Warning

NYTimes.com: The New Old Age: In the Health Bill, a New Focus on Elder Abuse

Alzheimer's Association Relocation

FW: Parkinsons Summer Form looking for sponsors

FW: RSVP Volunteer Luncheon

Press Release: 2010 "Ideas for Life" Senior Expo

FREE Cataract Surgery To Those That Qualify

ELDER JUSTICE BILLS CLEAR CONGRESS, OBAMA TO SIGN INTOLAW

FW: Census news

List of Area Resources

FW: BASA FW: Hospice of Michigan's Except for Six

Fundraiser at MOOMERS for Hospice

2010 Ideas for Life Senior Expo Education Seminars Announced

Zonta Club of Traverse City Mini-Grant Applications available

Parkinson Foundation elects two new members

GOOD HEALTH: Health briefs

Mother Knows Best.and Daughters Can, Too!

25th ANNUAL PARKINSON'S SUMMER FORUM - Speaker Announced

Bay Area Senior Advocates (BASA) celebrates another success story!

Personal Emergency Response System Cost assistance

Funeral Home offers Cemetery Marker Program

Falling Issues

Aging In Place

Fraud Advisory: Jury Duty Scam

Proposed Blue Cross Blue Shield Legislation

2009 "Ideas for Life" Senior Expo

8th Annual Ideas for Life Senior Expo 2009

Send a loud message:
"We Must Reauthorize the Older Americans Act!"