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Wednesday, September 18, 2024

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Medical copays reduce health care access in MS prisons; Israel planted explosives in pagers sold to Hezbollah according to official sources; Serving looks with books: Libraries fight 'fast fashion' by lending clothes; Menhaden decline threatens Virginia's ecosystem, fisheries.

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JD Vance calls for toning down political rhetoric, while calls for his resignation grow because of his own comments. The Secret Service again faces intense criticism, and a right to IVF is again voted down in the US Senate.

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A USDA report shows a widening gap in rural versus urban health, a North Carolina county remains divided over a LGBTQ library display, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz' policies are spotlighted after his elevation to the Democratic presidential ticket.

MN: Senior Issues

AARP says between 3 million and 4 million Medicare enrollees nationwide are estimated to benefit from the new out-of-pocket federal cap every year between 2025 and 2029. Of the total, 40,050 are in Minnesota. (Adobe Stock)
Picture becomes clearer on drug cost savings for older Minnesotans

Consumer advocates have long detailed how older adults struggle to manage the cost of their medications but hope is emerging in Minnesota and elsewher…

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Staring July 1, Minnesota drivers 55 and older will only have to take four hours of a driver safety course to get an auto insurance discount, down from the current requirement of eight course hours. (Adobe Stock)
MN finalizes overhaul of driver safety education policy

On average, nearly 40% of traffic-fatality victims in Minnesota are 55 and older. A law change soon goes into effect to help more of these drivers …

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United Health Foundation says for older adults, the early death rate has gone down by 8%. Officials say while that's an improvement, the rate is still higher than pre-pandemic levels. (Adobe Stock)
Mixed outlook revealed in new well-being report for older adults

Older adults in Minnesota and across the nation are navigating various challenges that affect their quality of life. An annual report shows progress…

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According to national data, traffic deaths increased by 10.5% in 2021 and traffic fatalities rose by<br />14% for drivers 65 and older. (Adobe Stock)
In making MN roads safer, law change sought for safety course

Traffic deaths are trending higher in Minnesota this year after a decline the previous year. Groups pushing for safer roads are convinced a small …

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Minnesota is phasing in a host of election policy changes intended to make voting easier. Administrators also remind voters, especially older populations with physical limitations, that they still can take advantage of curbside voting. (Adobe Stock)
Voting-law changes benefit older Minnesotans

Minnesota's presidential primary is one month from today. As voters prepare to cast their ballot, administrators say new policies are in place in …

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Minnesota lawmakers, leading a task force on Emergency Medical Services shortages, say they have received some initial reports of 90-minute response times in certain rural areas. (Adobe Stock)
MN takes deep dive into solving ambulance shortages

Efforts to close ambulance service gaps in Minnesota are taking shape. A special legislative task force is gathering findings about the severity of …

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Officials with the Aging and Climate Change Clearinghouse contend the baby boomer generation has developed consumption patterns exacerbating climate change. They say changing patterns, such as making homes energy-efficient, can help reduce the climate threats they face. (Adobe Stock)
New project weaves in older populations in responding to climate threats

From prolonged droughts to intense rain and snowstorms, the Midwest is not immune to climate change threats. An emerging resource aims to place more …

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If your flight is delayed this holiday travel season, experts recommended people with chronic health conditions pack or seek out airport vendors selling healthy snacks. They said it can help reduce the risk of a health problem during your trip. (Adobe Stock)
Making holiday travel manageable for those with chronic health issues

Holiday stress is a concern for most people, but when you mix in travel plans and chronic health issues, those worries might be elevated. A …

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Federal health officials say dementia affects nearly 7 million Americans. That number is projected to double by 2060. (Adobe Stock)
Closing care gaps, finding wellness tools for those with dementia

This fall, a key federal agency is taking applications from providers who want to join a nationwide model to improve Alzheimer's care. Minnesota …

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Health coverage aid groups and providers warn if you wait until the last minute and rush your enrollment for an insurance plan, you could end up in the wrong program or with benefits that do not suit your needs. (Adobe Stock)
Health Coverage 101: Early research, expert guidance keep pitfalls at bay

When it comes to open enrollment and navigating health insurance options, experts say starting your research sooner rather than later is the best …

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Minnesota is one of only about a dozen states that tax Social Security income. (Adobe Stock)
MN Social Security Tax Debate Comes Into Focus

The current Minnesota legislative session has seen a lot of big policy moves, and Social Security tax relief could be next. A compromise plan is …

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AmeriCorps says in its latest report, Minnesotans logged 108 million hours of formal volunteer service. (Adobe Stock)
MN Fares Well in New Volunteer Rankings

New data on volunteering in the U.S. carries good news for Minnesota. Every other year, the independent government agency AmeriCorps works with the …

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