Key Takeaways Process evaluations for delivery networks help us learn how to best support, strengthen, and expand the Aging Mastery Program®. A process evaluation needs careful planning and a structure that all stakeholders in a statewide delivery network agree on upfront and adapt as needed. Learn more about what a participatory and collaborative process evaluation would look like. In early 2020, I was invited to partner with the Aging Mastery® team on the first process evaluation of building a sustainable, statewide delivery network for the Aging Mastery Program (AMP). How we approach ..read more

Things are moving quickly in Congress on the next round of federal COVID-19 relief. In response to President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, House committees are writing legislation to provide additional stimulus checks, unemployment benefits, and rental, nutrition, and utility assistance—as well as important provisions that would support older Americans and the organizations that serve them. NCOA is advocating to make sure these provisions are included in the final bill as it moves through the House and Senate over the next several weeks. Your members of Congress need to hear from you—their con ..read more

Key Takeaways The approved COVID-19 vaccines require two doses to provide optimal protection against the virus. The vaccine is free for people with and without insurance—beware of scams asking you to pay for it. Check with your health department, pharmacy, or doctor about when and where to receive the vaccine. The past year has been historic for many reasons, including the development and launch of COVID-19 vaccines. Importantly, older adults and individuals from diverse backgrounds have been considered at every step during the research and development process. Below are common questions and ..read more

Key Takeaways Congress’ final bill of 2020 extends SNAP food benefits and boosts funding for senior nutrition programs. Package also features improvements to the Medicare enrollment process and Medicaid. NCOA continues to advocate for additional COVID-19 relief for older adults. Congress closed 2020 by passing a $2.3 trillion legislative package that addresses some of the COVID-19 pandemic and health challenges facing older adults, but also fails to invest in other important areas. The package features three pieces: A $900 billion COVID relief bill FY21 appropriations for federal programs ..read more

Like millions of Americans, NCOA staff and I watched with shock the violence and destruction that unfolded yesterday at the U.S. Capitol. It was unreal. It was frightening. And it was unacceptable. NCOA’s vision of a just and caring society is built upon a strong, fair, and free democracy. As we champion equitable aging for all, there is always room for honest and respectful disagreement, but never for violence. It’s been said that democracy is not a spectator sport. The same is true for creating a just and equitable society. Realizing that vision requires each of us to participate. For NCOA ..read more

Key Takeaways COVID-19 was a challenge, but people across the country made a difference in their communities New leadership and funding refueled our organization to reach new heights Plans for 2021 are well underway 2020 was a year for the history books. Despite the challenges we all faced, it’s worth pausing to reflect with gratitude on what went well. Helping older adults through COVID-19 When the pandemic arrived, we reshaped our website to make reliable information on COVID-19 easy to find. We pushed Congress to prioritize older adults in relief packages because they remain most vulnerab ..read more

Key Takeaways If you’re disappointed that you won’t have the holiday you imagined, there are things you can do to feel better. Most of us have lost our sense of normalcy this year, and it’s okay to feel a little sad during the holidays. Setting a new habit and keeping a routine can give your days structure and help you feel in control. As creatures of habit, we look forward to seasonal traditions such as Christmas parties with friends, lighting the menorah candles with family during Hanukah, or exchanging Kwanza presents with loved ones. Due to the pandemic, our traditions and celebrations m ..read more

As the COVID-19 pandemic carries on, many older Americans are finding their budgets stretched to the limit. The high cost of housing and utilities can be especially burdensome. Here are several places to find help if you’re struggling to pay your rent, mortgage, or home energy costs. Rental Assistance If you’re a renter facing hardship, you might want to start by writing a letter to your landlord or property manager requesting a repayment agreement. No Rent can help you draft a letter and exercise your rights to avoid eviction. You’ll also want to look into these resources: Affordable housing ..read more

Key Takeaways: There’s promising news in the development of effective vaccines and treatments for the novel coronavirus, but challenges remain. The vaccine will be free, and the Food & Drug Administration has created guidelines to ensure its safety. The National Academies of Sciences has developed a 4-phase framework for distributing the vaccine once it’s approved. The world recently received very encouraging news from two of the many drug companies developing vaccines for the novel coronavirus. The two companies—Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna—reported much better than expected results from ..read more

Key Takeaways: With COVID-19 cases rising in almost all states, the holidays will require extra safety precautions this year. The best way to prevent the spread of coronavirus is to follow guidelines for safe holiday activities. If you’re considering hosting or attending a gathering, there are several important factors to consider. If you’re like me and many other Americans, the holidays are your favorite time of year. We spend time with those we love, enjoy delicious food, and have fun playing games, watching football, or other family traditions. These pastimes are exactly what we need righ ..read more