Senior Issues / Public News Service

Maine has one of the oldest populations in the U.S., with more than 20% of residents over age 65. State officials said many could benefit from digital skills training made available through the state's Digital Equity Plan. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Monday, January 13, 2025

ME tackles rural ‘digital divide’ with tech grants, training

A new program aims to ensure rural Mainers can take full advantage of expanding high-speed internet service. Grant applications open this week for …

The Social Security Fairness Act eliminates two components of federal retirement policy: the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset. (sveta/Adobe Stock)

Monday, January 13, 2025

Texas educators celebrate signing of Social Security Fairness Act

Members of the teacher's union, the Texas branch of the American Federation of Teachers, are celebrating the signing of the Social Security Fairness …

Americans age 60 and older saw the largest number of cryptocurrency-related complaints, according to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center. (Adobe Stock)

AARP Arizona gears up for new legislative session

Monday is the start of Arizona's new legislative session. Advocacy groups such as AARP Arizona are gearing up and say they're ready to work to ensure …

AARP Nebraska's annual Community Challenge grants have funded projects ranging from community paths to traffic-calming installations. (Adobe Stock)

AARP Nebraska opens applications for Community Challenge grants

Many towns and nonprofit groups probably have ideas about how to improve their communities and now, there is a chance to get funding for projects…

In the winter, heart-related deaths increase by about 20% with cold weather. (Andrii IURLOV/Adobe Stock)

MO doctor shares tips on staying heart healthy in cold temps

January's cold temperatures in Missouri and across the nation can pose risks for those with heart conditions. The American Heart Association has …

It typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes to donate blood. (thomsond/Adobe Stock)

Arkansans encouraged to make life-saving blood donations

Blood banks nationwide and in Arkansas are encouraging people to make a blood donation this time of year and possibly save a life. Blood donations …

The latest ALICE update found a family with two adults and two kids in Connecticut must have an income of $114,000 per year just to afford the basics, not including emergency expenses. (Adobe Stock)

AARP Connecticut looks to 2025 legislative session to help residents

With 2025 almost here, Connecticut organizations are preparing for the next legislative session. The 2025 session will not be as short as the one in …

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported New Hampshire is home to more than 3,000 U.S. Postal Service workers, who earn an average hourly wage of $27.08. (Adobe Stock)

NH rural towns face proposed postal delays in 2025

The Postmaster General has proposed reduced delivery days and other changes starting next year which could particularly affect rural New Hampshire…

The National Council on Aging recommends during the winter to improve stability on slippery surfaces, attach spikeless ice and snow gripper sole covers to your shoes, and choose winter shoes with rubber soles. (Taisiia/Adobe Stock)

Winter advice for PA seniors: Prevent falls, stay connected

As winter sets in for Pennsylvania, it is crucial to be cautious of fall hazards, especially for seniors. The Centers for Disease Control and …

In a new AARP survey, 90% of South Dakotans ages 45 and older said having adequate Social Security benefits is a priority. (Adobe Stock)

SD survey: Increasing concerns about health care, prescription costs

More middle-aged and older South Dakotans had financial concerns this year, especially around health care, according to a new survey. Advocates for …

The Federal Trade Commission received nearly 20,000 gift card scam complaints in the first half of 2024, representing about $100 million in losses. (Adobe Stock)

Tips to help Mainers avoid holiday scams

Mainers are encouraged to be on the lookout for increasingly sophisticated scams during the holiday season. Fake emails appearing to be from …

USPS recommends deleting 'smishing' texts and blocking the senders.(WesSide/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock)

Oregonians need to watch out for 'smishing' packages

Many folks are still expecting holiday packages this week, and the United States Postal Service is warning customers not to fall for what are known …

The State of Illinois Department on Aging predicts by 2030, adults age 60 and older will be 25% of the state's population. (Adobe Stock)

Volunteers vital for meal delivery to older IL residents

As the new year approaches, people often make resolutions to donate money to a charity. Donating one's time as a volunteer is an option that …

To avoid phishing and smishing scams, more than 40 million people have already signed up for

USPS warns NM customers awaiting packages not to fall for 'smishing'

Many folks are still expecting holiday packages this week, and the United States Postal Service is warning customers not to fall for what are known …

In 2020, the Internet Crime Complaint Center reported more than 240 victims of phishing, smishing and other fraudulent schemes, resulting in losses exceeding $54 million. (EdvvinStudios/Adobe Stock)

Postal Service warns MI customers about smishing 'Grinches'

The United States Postal Service is warning Michiganders not to fall for what are known as smishing scams. These scams involve fraudulent text …

The USPS says texts with questionable tracking information and clickable links should be avoided in order to prevent scammers from gaining personal information. (Rokas/Adobe Stock)

USPS warns AR residents to be aware of 'smishing' scams

Many folks are still expecting holiday packages this week, and the United States Postal Service is warning customers not to fall for what are known …

In Indiana, people aged 75-84 must renew their driver's license every three years and are required to take a vision test. Drivers 85 and up must do it every two years. (Adobe stock)

Winter roads test older drivers across Indiana

Indiana's busy holiday roads can put older drivers to the test. With 2.8 million Hoosiers traveling this season, the AAA Hoosier Motor Club …

Among adults over the age of 65, 20% do not drive, according to one study on the transportation needs of seniors. (Adobe Stock)

Helping seniors through loneliness during the holidays

With Christmas less than a week away, experts are giving advice on how seniors and the community can fight against social isolation. A United Health …

A survey from the American Heart Association revealed 79% of respondents neglect their health during the holidays. Many say they find this time of year more stressful than income tax season.<br />(deagreez/Adobe Stock)

MO doctor shares holiday travel tips for a healthy heart

Holiday travel is in full swing and for many, so is the stress. The American Heart Association of Missouri has health tips for anyone with heart …

According to the Alzheimer's Association Greater Indiana Chapter, 11% of people aged 45 and older have subjective cognitive decline. (Adobe Stock)

IN Alzheimer's caregivers can comfort, support patients during holidays

The excitement of the holiday season is celebrated with family get-togethers. For Alzheimer's patients, large groups can produce fear and confusion…

The Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter 2024 report shows 12% of adults over age 65 have the disease. (Adobe Stock)

IL Alzheimer's patients can enjoy holiday fun

The excitement of the holiday season is celebrated with family get-togethers. But for Alzheimer's patients, large groups can produce fear and …

Despite strong federal regulations governing child labor, some states, such as Iowa, have weakened protections in order to compensate for what industries say is a labor shortage. (Creative Commons)

Worker shortage pushes Iowa employers to hire children for dangerous jobs

A conflict between federal child labor regulations and those passed by the Iowa Legislature has increased the number of businesses fined for hiring ch…

The latest federal numbers show that about 8.7 million U.S. households, with at least one adult older than 50, participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). (Adobe Stock)

Clearing the myths: Simplifying SNAP benefits to fight senior hunger

Hunger doesn't retire, yet millions of older Americans struggling to afford food may not realize help is within reach. Misconceptions and stigma …

As of October, Florida's Medicaid enrollment stands at 4,307,965, according to the state's Agency for Health Care Administration. (Adobe Stock)

Proposed federal cuts to health programs could impact millions of Floridians

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for office, federal health programs affecting 85 million low-income Americans, including millions in Florida…

Out-of-pocket costs increased by $1700 on average for older Coloradans with Medicare Advantage coverage, plans claiming to limit health costs for people living on fixed incomes. (Adobe Stock)

Colorado health care costs rose 139% between 2013-2022

Between 2013 and 2022, health care spending in Colorado surged by 139% to nearly $30 billion, according to a new analysis by the Center for Improving …

Calls to 911 for GLOW users tend to occur in geographic areas where poverty is more concentrated in Longview. (MclittleStock/Adobe Stock)

East TX program connects residents to services, frees up 911

First responders in the east Texas city of Longview are getting help from a recently formed organization. The GLOW program helps connect residents …

Dementia is the third-largest cause of death for individuals age 70 and older in the United States. (Adobe Stock)

Pathways developed to reduce dementia risk in Colorado

Dementia, a disease with profound effects on families, loved ones and caregivers, affects more than 55 million people globally, including 6 million …

Consumer advocates say cryptocurrency, like Bitcoin, is less regulated and harder to recover in a scam situation. They say that's why holiday shoppers should steer clear of it if asked to convert their payment to crypto. (Freepik)

Cryptocurrency part of latest scam warnings for Nebraskans

If your holiday shopping list is far from complete, consumer advocates in Nebraska hope you don't ignore warning signs of scams in the rush to buy …

The unpaid care provided by more than 580,000 Wisconsin caregivers is valued at $9.2 billion, according to AARP. (Adobe Stock) <br /><br />

More support needed for over half-million WI family caregivers

More than 580,000 Wisconsinites are unpaid family caregivers and they serve as the backbone of the state's long-term care system, and one …

A cap on out-of-pocket drug costs will likely decrease health care costs for many people on Medicare. (Rawpixel.com/Adobe Stock)

Medicare changes in 2025 to benefit Oregonians

Changes coming to Medicare in 2025 could be beneficial for Oregon residents who are eligible for the program. Oregonians who qualify for Medicare …

AARP Mississippi helped pass The Caregiver Act, making it one of the first states to implement such legislation, in 2015. (Malambo/peopleimages/Adobe Stock)

Mississippi group provides support, resources to family caregivers

The holidays can be both joyful and bittersweet for family members caring for loved ones. AARP Mississippi said it is working to help meet the …

In day-to-day life, 'solo agers' lean on neighbors and friends

By Judith Graham for KFF Health News.Broadcast version by Mike Moen for Minnesota News Connection reporting for the KFF Health News-Public News Servic…

Wyoming caregivers provide an estimated $910 million in economic value to the state, according to AARP Wyoming. (Adobe Stock)

AARP expands 'Care for Caregivers' course to more WY communities

November is National Family Caregivers Month and AARP Wyoming is working to meet rising demand for caregiver resources. About 58,000 Wyomingites …

Studies show being alone may leave older adults more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation, which can affect their health and well-being. (Adobe Stock)

Fostering connection: Combating social isolation during the holidays

For many, the holiday season is a time of joy and celebration - but it can often bring loneliness and isolation for older adults. Steve Morrison…

The holidays can be hard for Texans dealing with loss or depression

The holiday season is not merry and bright for everyone. If you have experienced the loss of a loved one, lost your job or if you're going through a …

Changes could be coming to Medicare, Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act as President-elect Donald Trump builds his administration. (I Viewfinder/Adobe Stock)

2nd Trump term to affect health coverage for Arkansans

Low-income Arkansas families could be in for some big cuts to health care under a second Trump administration, according to health experts. Policy …

Easy Estates, put together by NDSU architectural student Noah Boen, was one of the winning designs in a North Dakota competition to spur more age-friendly housing. An AARP survey found 55% of state residents prioritize living independently as they age if they were to consider moving out of their current residence. (Photo courtesy AARP)

ND project lays out new 'age-friendly' housing vision

Recent surveys show a majority of North Dakotans want housing that allows them to live independently as they age. But there aren't a lot of suitable …

Under the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act, Dual Special Needs Plans must secure contracts with the state Medicaid agency to enhance the integration of Medicare and Medicaid benefits for

PA Medicaid, Medicare dual enrollees may qualify for expanded benefits

Many Pennsylvania residents could benefit from health coverage known as a Dual Special Needs Plan, but may be unaware of this option. According to …

Research site Statista lists 23,000 specialty physicians in Illinois including 2071 radiologists, 1489 cardiologists and 987 oncologists. (Adobe Stock)

IL doctors seek revisions to their Medicare reimbursement amounts

The number of Medicare enrollees is projected to rise over the next few years as the baby boomer population ages. More than 2 million Illinoisans are …

Some Dual Special Needs plans can be used to pay for a variety of different things, including fruits and vegetables, meats, seafood. (Adobe Stock)

Dec 7 deadline for CO Medicare-Medicaid enrollees to get additional benefits

Over 150,000 Coloradans with both Medicare and Medicaid coverage who need additional help - whether due to disabilities, age, income or health …

Dual Special Needs Plans offer Medicare and Medicaid coverage for eligible consumers. (Adobe Stock)

Dual Special Needs Plans in NY can provide extra health care benefits

Some New Yorkers could see a host of benefits from Dual Special Needs Plan, which offer Medicare and Medicaid coverage for eligible consumers…

Health experts said it is unclear whether the next Trump administration will continue drug price negotiations in Medicare or seek to repeal or weaken them. (Eric Hood)

Health experts brace for Trump Administration 2.0

California could be in for some big cuts to health care for low-income families under a second Trump administration, according to health experts…

More than 40% of caregivers for people with dementia have household incomes of $50,000 or less, according to the Alzheimer's Association. (Adobe Stock)

Expanding outreach to Iowa caregivers during Alzheimer's Awareness Month

The Iowa Alzheimer's Association chapter is making new resources available to caregivers during November, a month set aside to educate and help …

Idaho Gov. Brad Little was first elected in 2018. (gov.idaho.gov)

Idahoans get chance to speak with Gov. Little at town hall

Older Idahoans have an opportunity to speak with Governor Brad Little next week. AARP Idaho is hosting a telephone town hall with the governor…

People who qualify can receive benefits beyond doctor visits and prescription drugs through a Dual Special Needs Plan. (Pexels)

VA Medicaid, Medicare enrollees may qualify for expanded benefits

Virginians enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid may be able to get expanded health benefits through what are known as Dual-Eligible Special Needs Pl…

Eligible Hoosiers can access additional benefits beyond doctor visits and prescriptions with a Dual Special Needs Plan. (Adobe stock)

Dual health plans offer extra support for low-income Hoosiers

Nearly 13 million people nationwide, including thousands of Hoosiers on Medicare and Medicaid, may qualify for additional coverage through a Dual …

The Ohio Department of Aging dispels myths about older workers, highlighting employees in their 50s tend to stay with an employer longer than those in their 20s or 30s, which may lower retraining costs.(Daniel Laflor/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock)

Ohio’s workforce gets an age advantage

By Eduardo Miranda Strobel / Broadcast version by Farah Siddiqi reporting for the Kent State NewsLab-Ohio News Connection Collaboration. Adults 55 …

A new program in Washington state will give people access to long-term care benefit of $36,500 starting in July 2026. (Khunatorn/Adobe Stock)

New book explores living, caregiving questions in 'The Second Fifty'

Aging brings with it new questions on how we can live our best lives and a new book could help people answer some of those questions. One of the …

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - January 14, 2025

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Senior Issues

ME tackles rural ‘digital divide’ with tech grants, training

Texas educators celebrate signing of Social Security Fairness Act

AARP Arizona gears up for new legislative session

AARP Nebraska opens applications for Community Challenge grants

MO doctor shares tips on staying heart healthy in cold temps

Arkansans encouraged to make life-saving blood donations

AARP Connecticut looks to 2025 legislative session to help residents

NH rural towns face proposed postal delays in 2025

Winter advice for PA seniors: Prevent falls, stay connected

SD survey: Increasing concerns about health care, prescription costs

Tips to help Mainers avoid holiday scams

Oregonians need to watch out for 'smishing' packages

Volunteers vital for meal delivery to older IL residents

USPS warns NM customers awaiting packages not to fall for 'smishing'

Postal Service warns MI customers about smishing 'Grinches'

USPS warns AR residents to be aware of 'smishing' scams

Winter roads test older drivers across Indiana

Helping seniors through loneliness during the holidays

MO doctor shares holiday travel tips for a healthy heart

IN Alzheimer's caregivers can comfort, support patients during holidays

IL Alzheimer's patients can enjoy holiday fun

Worker shortage pushes Iowa employers to hire children for dangerous jobs

Clearing the myths: Simplifying SNAP benefits to fight senior hunger

Proposed federal cuts to health programs could impact millions of Floridians

Colorado health care costs rose 139% between 2013-2022

East TX program connects residents to services, frees up 911

Pathways developed to reduce dementia risk in Colorado

Cryptocurrency part of latest scam warnings for Nebraskans

More support needed for over half-million WI family caregivers

Medicare changes in 2025 to benefit Oregonians

Mississippi group provides support, resources to family caregivers

In day-to-day life, 'solo agers' lean on neighbors and friends

AARP expands 'Care for Caregivers' course to more WY communities

Fostering connection: Combating social isolation during the holidays

The holidays can be hard for Texans dealing with loss or depression

2nd Trump term to affect health coverage for Arkansans

ND project lays out new 'age-friendly' housing vision

PA Medicaid, Medicare dual enrollees may qualify for expanded benefits

IL doctors seek revisions to their Medicare reimbursement amounts

Dec 7 deadline for CO Medicare-Medicaid enrollees to get additional benefits

Dual Special Needs Plans in NY can provide extra health care benefits

Health experts brace for Trump Administration 2.0

Expanding outreach to Iowa caregivers during Alzheimer's Awareness Month

Idahoans get chance to speak with Gov. Little at town hall

VA Medicaid, Medicare enrollees may qualify for expanded benefits

Dual health plans offer extra support for low-income Hoosiers

Ohio’s workforce gets an age advantage

New book explores living, caregiving questions in 'The Second Fifty'