On Demand Session by Category
Business Acumen
Strategies for Web-Based Content Development and Dissemination
Overview
| With a world of information at our fingertips, it can be challenging for people of all ages to verify what is valid and accurate. The information is out there—but is it accessible and comprehensible to its intended audience? Does it read smoothly and easily? Is it being found and read by its target audience? And if not, what can be done to spread its reach to the right people? This presentation will explore methods content creators, web managers and health experts can use to develop and expand the reach of quality web-based content using Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging’s Resource Library as a case study. The Resource Library was developed by the Center for Research and Education’s “Consumer Information Initiative”—part of Benjamin Rose’s ongoing work to increase dissemination of knowledge and credible information to older adults, caregivers, professionals and policymakers. This library of information serves as the Initiative’s hub for creating and sharing high-quality, research-based and practical information with older people and families in the form of articles and videos. The Resource Library’s content is focused on empowering older people and families to maintain their health and wellness, effectively manage chronic health conditions, live as independently as possible, and make informed decisions. The Resource Library currently houses over 400 articles, videos and publication covering topics like family caregiving, elder abuse, financial health and wellness and dementia. In 2020, it was visited by over 19,000 users, and viewed over 25,000 times in total. By identifying the organization’s key audiences, the Consumer Information Initiative was able to target our language, formatting and information to the needs of different readers, and then develop a Search Engine Optimization strategy designed to help our target audiences easily find the organization’s content. This consumer-focused methodology which guided the development and implementation of the Resource Library is one that can be used by health-based organizations looking to disseminate content online and reach their own target audiences in an effective way. Attendees of this presentation will explore strategies for developing audience-specific resources, and methods for identifying key audiences to be reached, whether they be older adults, family caregivers or fellow industry professionals. They will learn web writing best practices including formatting tips, language choice, use of visuals and readability scoring to make content accessible and friendly to readers on the Internet. They will discover the benefits of Search Engine Optimization and learn practical ways to leverage it to support marketing efforts and expand the reach of their content through meta-data, keyword research and tagging. Lastly, attendees will explore the uses of web analytics in tracking the effectiveness of content as well as the characteristics and behavior of the audience interacting with it. |
Speaker(s)
Julie Hayes, Content Manager, Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging
Partnerships in Successful Delivery of Walk With Ease as an Employee Wellness Offering
Overview
| Four strategic, multi-sector partnership from a national non-profit organization, a local business coalition on health, a national consulting agency, a public health, non-profit organization; and a non-profit employer partnered to successfully partner and pilot the delivery of a fully remote, Self-Directed Enhanced Walk With Ease (WWE) program. The target audience served included over 5,000 employees within a social service non-profit organizations with locations across 11 states in the U.S., with headquarters in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The audience served by this programming represent a population at high risk for chronic disease, some already living with musculoskeletal pain. Attendees will glean lessons learned and key factors that fostered the success of this employer-based delivery of the evidence-based WWE program. Data collection from this program delivery will be presented along with recommendations for those looking to transition from grant-based to diversified funding for sustaining evidence-based programs. |
Speaker(s)
Gina Trignani, MS, RN, LDN, Director, Training and Capacity Building, Health Promotion Council
It Just Makes Good Business Sense
Overview
| This panel presentation is intended for professionals at all organizational and community levels from those in leadership and executive roles to those functioning as service practitioners. The goals of this presentation include (1) demonstrating the significance and benefits of employing a business approach to human service organizational and community practice, and (2) imparting practical strategies to improve planning, capacity building, and execution at the customer, agency, and system levels. The employment of comprehensive, strategic, and participatory stakeholder analysis and planning will be covered as will building organizational and system capacity and readiness from within. The role of institutional culture and the value of a data-driven approach will be presented. The panel will discuss mobilization and lessons learned in confronting the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this presentation, information regarding the effective processes used to conduct an older adult community analysis, unify a network of providers within a collective impact framework, and establish a business case for an increased resource investment in local elder care will be shared. The panel will afford attendees the opportunity to ask questions and dialogue about presented topics and concepts. Overall, attendees’ understanding of solid business acumen will be expanded along with its application to their work within aging service agencies and networks. |
Speaker(s)
Stephen Ferrante, Principal Partner, Group Victory
Stephanie Scott, Principal Researcher, United Way of Broward County
Chris Cannon, Principal Partner, Group Victory
Going Up to the Next Level: Learn from Innovations in Nutrition Grantee Projects
Overview
| The target audience for this presentation are nutrition program administrators within senior centers, Councils on Aging and Area Agencies on Aging. Since 2017, the Administration on Aging (AoA) has funded “Innovations in Nutrition” grants that support the testing and documentation of innovative and promising practices. The goal of this program is to enhance the quality, effectiveness, and proven outcomes of nutrition services within the aging services network. Successful grants awarded under this program must have the potential for broad implementation throughout the aging services network and have demonstrated value, i.e., improvements in participant well-being, cost savings, etc. Innovations must target services to underserved older adults with greatest social and economic need, and individuals at risk for institutional placement, to permit such individuals to remain in home and community-based settings as indicated in the Older Americans Act. Grantees are undertaking a variety of innovative activities under the scope of these awards. This session will present three very different types of projects, which will surely appeal to and inspire a wide audience of nutrition program staff. The National Nutritionist at the Administration for Community Living will act as moderator. The Texas Congregate Meal Initiative (TCMI) is a public-private partnership established with a goal to increase participation in the congregate meal program across Texas by helping local organizations develop their business development skills and capacities for programmatic innovations. Outcome findings and strategy highlights from a Learning Collaborative (LC) based targeted and customized Technical Assistance (TA) provided to local nutrition providers will be shared. The LC goal is to systematically develop, by involving subject matter experts and peers, the business skills of the local organizations so they are able to improve the quality and vibrancy of their congregate meal programs. The Health and Hospital Corporation of Marion County, IN created a project called, “Eskenazi Health Meals at Home.” A collaboration between a hospital and the local Meals on Wheels Program, this project delivered 19 different menu options of frozen meals (or a combination of fresh and frozen) while creating a unique “app” for home delivered clients to use for ordering. Meal waste, improved use of volunteer resources, client satisfaction and health measures were evaluated. Lessons learned and project results will be shared. The New York City Department for the Aging project is developing a virtual, holistic approach to address the nutritional, social and mental health needs of older New Yorkers during COVID and beyond. The project empowers seniors to manage their mental health through the provision of an impactful tele-health program that addresses depression and anxiety and is implemented by lay leaders; improve their nutrition and health status through individual and group phone and video nutrition counseling and interactive virtual cooking and nutrition education classes; and encourages social connectedness through “Senior TechWatch” to improve technology skills and access to stimulating opportunities for online connections to people, programs and services. |
Speaker(s)
Judy Simon, MS, RD, LDN (she/her), National Nutritionist, Administration for Community Living, US Department of Health and Human Services
Nandita Chaudhuri, Research Scientist, Public Policy Research Institute, Texas A&M University
Amy Carter, MA, RDN, LD, CDCES, Director of Clinical Nutrition and Lifestyle Health, Eskenazi Health
Dr. Jackie Berman, PhD, Senior Director, Research, New York City Department for the Aging
29+ Best Practices to Strengthen your Brand. Stand out during the pandemic and beyond!
Overview
| Background: In 2021, hindsight is truly 2020. And there's a lot we can learn for 2021. For many senior centers and other organizations serving older adults, one’s brand is closely tied to a building such as a senior center. But during the pandemic, many of those buildings have been closed, or open only on a very limited basis. How do we keep “welcoming to all” a reality outside of our buildings? How do we keep our brands front and center to our members and participants, residents, town administrators, foundations and community partners? Goal This session will provide dozens of tactics and tips to help your target audiences understand your organization’s essential role during the pandemic. The presentation will provide examples of how to showcase your brand and your organization even while physical distancing is in place. This will enable organizations to be even stronger as we enter into a recovery. Target Audience Anyone involved in marketing or branding of their organizations, especially in organizations that feel they aren’t being appropriately “heard” or recognized by their communities. Content A brief introduction will focus on the definition of branding, its value to the organization and its relation to marketing. Participants will hear how organizations across the country have pivoted their marketing and branding and showcased their organizations during the pandemic. Strengthening branding now will help organizations serving older adults carry out their mission now and in the recovery. Many of the examples will be widely applicable and relatively easy to implement. The session will include opportunities for attendees to share what they’ve done and to learn from others in the meeting. The presenter is the author of "Marketing Tools for Any Senior Center" published by NCOA. She has helped many organizations refine and strengthen their branding, especially during COVID-19. She has trained senior center directors in marketing and consulted to senior centers on their rebranding projects. |
Speaker(s)
Barrie Atkin, President, Atkin Associates Strategy/Marketing/Fundraising
Expanded Telehealth Opportunities for Community-Based Organizations
Overview
| Community-based organizations can play an integral role in expanding the use of several Medicare benefits for older adults and receive Medicare reimbursement by becoming a Medicare provider or contracting with an existing Medicare provider. As of December 1st, 2020, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released the 2021 Physician Fee Schedule final rule, which continued the expansion of telehealth services that was set in place at the beginning of the Public Health Emergency. The number of Medicare beneficiaries using telehealth services grew drastically during the coronavirus pandemic. Between mid-March and mid-October, over 24.5 million out of 63 million beneficiaries and enrollees had received a Medicare telehealth service. This session will discuss what the expansion of telehealth and other changes in the market means for Medicare reimbursement of evidence-based programs. |
Speaker(s)
Laura Plunkett, Senior Program Specialist, Center for Healthy Aging, National Council on Aging
Tim McNeill, Founder, Freedmen's Health
Diverse Population
COVID-19 and the ADA: Issues, Impacts & Implications
Overview
| People with disabilities remain one of America’s most underserved populations. As the American population grows older, many remain unaware of the rights and non-discrimination protections offered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This session will offer an overview of the ADA in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the ADA has legal implications, of equal significance are its human and practical implications for older people, service practitioners, and employers. Specifically, the presenters will review Title I and Title III of the ADA, the employment and public accommodations provisions, with a focus on the ADA definition of disability as it relates to COVID-19, what a business can and cannot ask its employees and patrons, what "reasonable accommodation" means when it comes to the obligation of a business to accommodate both patrons and employees with disabilities, and where medical documentation fits into this process. |
Speaker(s)
Jeffrey Tamburo, Training and Content Development Specialist, Cornell University
Jennifer Perry, Access Specialist, Cornell University
Is it Possible to Find Common Ground?: A New Program to Bridge the Generational Divide
Overview
| Even before COVID-19, older adults and youth in our society found themselves growing more and more isolated from each other, breaking down connectivity and hindering intergenerational learning. Technology, fast-paced lifestyles, social media all created “bubbles” for youth to exist, leaving older adults disconnected from the younger generation they can share with and mentor. For senior center directors looking for a way to bridge the generational divide, the Northwest Side Housing Center (NWSHC), located in Chicago, is presenting this session to share their innovative new program, “Common Ground,” launched in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Through this program, older adults, including Latino, African American and white, are matched with young people also of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. Together they are matched in pairs and share weekly phone and Zoom conversations that open up spaces to connect. The program covered topics such as childhood trauma, overcoming adversity, dealing with racism and prejudice, political engagement and voting, and holiday family traditions across cultures. Older adults in the program were given new laptops and trained on how to use them, including using Zoom. Monthly group activities on Zoom included training on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) and resilience, journaling, Senior Yoga, and even a Talent Night. Both the youth and older adults expressed themselves creatively using photography to reflect on what they loved about their communities and what their communities need to improve. This four-month program revealed the possibilities and pitfalls for inter-generational programs in the digital age—and the new world of COVID-19. This session will share how senior centers can launch their own “Common Ground” programs to break down social isolation, build resilience, and renewed purpose and improved mental health among older adults as they connect with youth in their community. The workshop will be presented by Linda Peters, Director of Older Adult Programs at the Northwest Side Housnig Center, with an older adult and youth participant from the Common Ground program, which is funded by a grant from The Retirement Research Foundation. |
Speaker(s)
Linda Peters, Director of Older Adult Programs, Northwest Center
Dr. Judith Kent, Ph.D., Associate Professor College of Professional Studies and Advancement Psychology, National Louis University
Trina Grogan, Americorps VISTA staff member, Northwest Side Housing Center
Aging in Texas: Reaching a Diverse Population During COVID and Beyond
Overview
| Texas is a diverse state with a wide spectrum of community settings, from small rural communities with populations of less than 40 people to major metropolitan cities with populations over 2.3 million people. With 12.9% of Texas’s population over the age of 65, meeting the needs of older Texans with an outreach strategy as diverse as it’s people is critical. The COVID-19 pandemic made this outreach even more important. This presentation covers the various methods the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (TXHHSC) uses to connect with older adults, their friends and families, community organizations, and state and community leaders. Attendees will learn about: •the different ways TXHHSC is reaching older Texans, •TXHHSC’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and •ways outreach efforts can be tailored and implemented. The presentation will also highlight stakeholder, partner, and provider feedback on how they responded to the pandemic, lessons learned, and future efforts to support older adults. Topics addressed include: how the Aging Texas Well initiative works with state leadership on policy and state readiness; how the Age Well Live Well campaign empowers local communities to better serve older adults; how the Texas Talks campaign encourages Texans to think about and discuss aging-related topics with their families and how the Know Your Neighbor campaign encourages community members to connect with older neighbors while practicing social distancing. |
Speaker(s)
Claire Irwin MA, BA, Age Well Live Well Coordinator, Texas Health and Human Services
Olivia Burns, Aging Texas Well Coordinator, Texas Health and Human Services
Alphabet Soup: LGBTQ+ Intimate Partner Violence in Later Life (IPVILL)
Overview
| This workshop will provide the learner with a foundational understanding of Domestic Violence in both the older adult and LGBTQ+ communities and take an in-depth look into the dynamics of abuse within older adult LGBTQ+ relationships. This workshop will define trauma and how it presents in LGBTQ+ older adults and follow the effects that various traumas has across the lifespan. Participants will also gain knowledge of intersectional, trauma-informed resources, tools, and best practices to provide more effective services to this underserved community. |
Speaker(s)
Jessa Winas, Training & TA Specialist, Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence
The Pride of Caring: A Program in Support of LGBT Seniors, Caregivers & Professionals
Overview
| Self-identified LGBT older adults make up 2.7 million seniors in the US. Older LGBT adults become caregivers at a higher rate than their non-LGBT peers, are 4 times less likely to have children, and twice as likely to be single. These LGBT caregivers are less likely to take advantage of resources to support them, and there are limited resources that address their unique life experiences. Despite the federal protection of marriage in 2015, many states uphold discriminatory laws in which health care and employment can be denied based upon sexual orientation or gender identity. “Dear Lucy” is a program launched by the Wellmed Charitable Foundation to provide caregivers with a free forum to pose anonymous questions which are addressed by a subject matter expert during 1-hour, telephone-based, peer-sharing sessions. Since the launch of the program in 2017, many questions were received from LGBT caregivers, prompting the development of a series – “The Pride of Caring” – to support the unique needs of LGBT caregivers and professionals who serve them. Themes that emerged center upon the identification of resources, concerns over discrimination from health care facilities and providers, policy issues such as advanced directives and Family Medical Leave Act challenges, and interpersonal challenges faced by caregivers. Participants have reported improvement in caregiving efficacy, and a sense of connection / sharing with peers. New and innovative approaches are needed to reach diverse caregivers where they are, and to facilitate learning and peer-sharing around issues that are unique to specific cohorts of caregivers. This program has been especially helpful during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing LGBTQ caregivers and health care professionals to address issues of isolation and to provide resources to support mental and physical health. |
Speaker(s)
Elliot Sklar, Associate Professor, Health Care Science, Nova Southeastern University
Carol Zernial, MA, Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility and Foundation Executive Director, WellMed
Tina Smith, Director, Caregiver Programs, WellMed Charitable Foundation
Lucy Kuchta, Owner/Founder, Quinsight, LLC
Creating Equity in Engagement for Older Chinese/AAPI Americans at the Community Level
Overview
| As many as seventy percent of the Asian-American Pacific Islander (AAPI) immigrant population have limited English proficiency or no English-speaking skills. As a result, many AAPIs are unaware of and underutilize available information, services and resources, especially those who are monolingual and/or socially isolated older adults. Government agencies, nonprofit service providers, and the private sector often feel that Chinese-American/AAPI elders have been hard to reach due to language, cultural and other barriers that may prevent them from achieving health, financial and information equities. Happy50Plus, a mission-driven, community-based organization that serves older Chinese-American/AAPIs in the U.S., has been able to reach and engage thousands of older Chinese-American/AAPI. Their website (www.happy50plus.org) has 10,000+ visits per month, both new and repeat traffic. Similar outstanding metrics have been documented on the social-media channels (FB, Twitter, IG, WeChat, Line, YouTube) on which Happy50Plus has a presence. Educational community-outreach events sponsored by Happy50Plus attracted 300-800 attendees, prior to 2020. In 2020, due to Covid-19, Happy50Plus pivoted all events to the virtual platform--events were still able to attract hundreds of attendees online. In addition, membership had grown 200 percent in 2020. This demonstrated there is a great need for an organization like Happy50Plus. This workshop will share how a community-based organization has been able to engage 50+ Chinese-American/AAPIs by the thousands. What are the engagement strategies that prove to be successful with the Chinese-American/AAPI elderly? What are the culturally competent and innovative tools they use to close the language, cultural and digital gaps? Objectives of this panel: 1. Learn the challenges of engaging Chinese American/AAPI elderly, especially those who are monolingual and socially isolated 2.Understand how leveraging diverse community leaders, government agencies, business partners, academia, and social services professionals will help raise awareness of local resources in southern California among older Chinese Americans and their families 3. Develop a clear understanding of how key community-focused initiatives for outreach and engagement were established using culturally competent tools (WeChat and apps) 4. Apply powerful culturally and language-appropriate tools to attract Chinese American/AAPI elderly, including the use of apps and storytelling 5. Learn ways to replicate these grassroots engagement strategies for your organization’s outreach efforts. |
Speaker(s)
Amanda Lee, CEO and Co-Founder, Happy50Plus, LLC
Susan Wang, Senior Advisor, AARP
Lily Liu, Family Caregiver,
To the Drawing Board: How CMS FAI Demonstration Grantees Address Cultural Competency for Dually-Eligible Enrollees
Overview
| Target Audience: Aging and disability partners supporting diverse dually eligible enrollees including benefits enrollment specialists and MIPPA grantees; Goal of Session: This session introduces cultural competency terminology and resources including the latest data resources on health equity among dually eligible enrollees. Additionally, the session highlights the efforts of FAI Demonstration Ombudsman grantees in addressing health equity, cultural competence, and social bias to overcome barriers and inspire systemic change within their organizations; Audience Takeaways: Attendees will learn about current trends in addressing health equity among dually eligible populations, what social bias is, grantee lessons learned, and where to find resources to incorporate cultural competence practice within their work; Examples: Possible highlights from FAIl demo grantees in the works (MI, CA). |
Speaker(s)
Shefy Simon, Program Analyst, Administration for Community Living (ACL)
Jack Dailey, Health Consumer Alliance Coordinator, Director of Policy and Training, Cal Med Connect Ombudsman Program
Lori Siedman, Director of Deaf Services, My Ombudsman Program, Disability Policy Consortium Massachusetts
Trauma-Informed Care and Older Adults
Overview
| Older adults have a history of experiences and some individuals have a history of trauma which can become even more complex through aging. There are many older adults dealing with medical issues, environmental stressors and multiple losses which can exacerbate trauma. Trauma awareness is the first step in trauma-informed care. Being able to recognize trauma responses and its effects, will individuals working with older adults make links between current adaptations and past experiences. Once triggers are identified, the staff can try to problem-solve ways to ameliorate the triggers. This might mean removing, avoiding, or minimizing the patient’s contact with specific triggers. By asking the question, “What happened to you?” vs. “What’s wrong with you?” promotes a strength-based approach to service and strengthens person-centered care. A trauma-informed approach is a perspective that acknowledges the pervasive influence and impact of trauma on an individual, their provider and the organization. The presentation will highlight effective communication strategies and incorporating trauma-informed care into practice. By realizing the prevalence of trauma; staff within an organization can recognize how trauma affects all individuals involves in the system, including its own workforce. This presentation will provide an overview of trauma and the impact on older adults. |
Speaker(s)
Lori Paris, Adjunct Instructor/Caregiver Support Coordinator, University of Louisville/Department of Veterans Affairs
Kate Russell, MSSW student, Kent School of Social Work
Practicing Cultural Humility to Address Racial Disparities and Inequities
Overview
| Attendees will explore the prevalence of and solutions to racial disparities in the disability community. Participants will learn how self-directed services can help dismantle systemic inequities. Participants will discover the role such services play in overcoming cultural barriers to foster stronger relationships with the underserved. Attendees will uncover how case managers and those referring clients to services can use self-direction as a bridge to address racial disparities. |
Speaker(s)
Ali Blandford Diaz, Director of Outreach, GT Independence
Stephen Graves, Culture and Belonging Manager, GT Independence
Meeting the Needs of Diverse Family Caregivers Training
Overview
| The “Caring for Those Who Care: Meeting the Needs of Diverse Family Caregivers” training was created by staff of the Diverse Elders Coalition and its six member organizations with generous support from The John A. Hartford Foundation. The information, research and statistics cited within the training were the result of a 15-month planning grant, during which the coalition completed a literature review on diverse caregivers, stakeholder interviews, a nationwide survey of diverse family caregivers, and a series of focus groups with family caregivers in diverse communities, in collaboration with the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging. The nationwide survey was developed through a modified version of the stress process model to account for cultural differences. The successful collection of over 700 completed surveys from diverse caregivers in our research represents one of the few times in research literature where multiple diverse groups (six) are being compared. Our research was conducted nationwide, in eight languages, and was led by the older adults and caregivers represented by the coalition, whose members include: National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) – Seattle, WA National Caucus and Center on Black Aging (NCBA) – Washington, DC National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCOA) – Washington, DC National Indian Council on Aging (NICOA) – Albuquerque, NM SAGE – New York, NY Southeast Asia Resource Action Center (SEARAC) – Washington, DC The goal of the research and this training curriculum is to deepen our understanding of the experiences of family caregivers in racially and ethnically diverse communities, American Indian and Alaska Native communities, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) communities, and improve the capacity of healthcare and social services providers to meet caregivers’ needs. The curriculum will also provide community-specific resources, and address the implications our recommendations on the COVID-19 pandemic. Handouts and factsheets were also developed to compliment the training curriculum and will be readily available for Area Agency on Aging or Title VI Native American aging programs. Multiple versions of the training curriculum have been developed as a result of our stakeholder interviews and to account for the six diverse communities represented by the Diverse Elders Coalitions. The 1-hour training curriculum overview will be presented at the n4a conference. Preliminary data from ASA focus groups revealed that 95% of participants agreed that they learned something new and will be implementing a best practice, highlighting the effectiveness of the 1-hour training curriculum overview. This presentation includes icebreakers and interactive polls that are aligned with the curriculum goals to ensure comprehension. |
Speaker(s)
Lauren Pongan, National Director, Diverse Elders Coalition
Jacqueline Boyd, Owner, The Care Plan
Addressing the Needs of Senior Nutrition Programs & Participants: Two Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Journeys
Overview
| The business environment for the national aging and nutrition program network (i.e., State Units on Aging, Area Agencies on Aging, and local service providers) has been evolving rapidly in recent years. More and more, particularly with the onset of the COVID-19 public health emergency, strong business acumen is necessary for thier survival. In 2020, Meals on Wheels America commissioned an evaluation of the key business drivers and training and technical assistance needs of senior nutrition program staff across the country to inform the development of ongoing training. A mixed methods approach (inclusive of an extensive literature review, a national survey, and subject matter expert key informant interviews and focus groups) was used to assess key business drivers as well as the training and technical assistance needs of senior nutrition programs. Serving an increasingly diverse older adult population was identified as a key business driver for the senior nutrition program network, and acquiring the skills needed to serve this population, was listed a top training need. The rapidly aging and increasingly diverse U.S. population, evolving impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and increasing rates of food insecurity, mean that the nutrition and aging services network is more essential than ever. Much of the work of these organizations also involves creating culturally inclusive programs and services, as well as policies and procedures that support racial equity. During the proposed panel presentation, participants will gain greater insight into the findings of the 2020 national evaluation of technical assistance and training needs for senior nutrition programs. The key business drivers identified through this evaluation will be reviewed as well. Informed by this research, participants will learn more about Meals on Wheels America’s national member engagement initiative on racial equity and diversity, an initiative designed to foster and sustain a national network of equitable, diverse, and inclusive organizations. With this national perspective in mind, participants will also learn from the experiences of one local program, Arizona YWCA of Metropolitan Phoenix – they have embarked on a multifaceted effort to leverage their advocacy, training, and direct service initiatives to raise awareness and ignite action towards addressing racial equity for the diverse older adults they serve. Taken together, participants will leave this session, armed with research-informed and practice-ready ideas to support their delivery of equitable, inclusive programs and services at their respective organizations. |
Speaker(s)
Dr. Uche Akobundu, Senior Director, Nutrition Strategy, Meals on Wheels America
Debra Esparza, Chief Operating Officer, Arizona YWCA of Metropolitan Phoenix
Sharron Corle, Director, Learning and Development, Meals on Wheels America
Tribal Self-Management Education Workshops - Tips for Success
Overview
| Better Choices, Better Health® South Dakota (BCBH-SD), South Dakota’s chronic disease self-management education program, is available statewide targeting adults (18+) with chronic physical and mental health conditions, and/or those who serve as their adult caregivers. Available since 2014, BCBH-SD has offered over 200 workshops, trained about 140 leaders, and provided CDSME information through workshops and training to almost 2,300 people. BCBH-SD offers a suite 0f self-management education programs including chronic disease, diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, and the workplace model. In addition, the physical activity programs of Walk With Ease and Fit & Strong! are offered. BCBH-SD has been an Administration of Community Living Grantee in 2015 and 2019. This presentation will demonstrate a pilot project between BCBH-SD and Great Plains Tribal Leader’s Health Board (GPTLHB) testing virtual attendance (Zoom) for two different BCBH-SD workshops for enrolled tribal members. The first workshop was Diabetes Self-Management and was the very first virtual model offered for BCBH-SD as a result of the pandemic. The workshop was successful with 11 enrolled and 7 participants or 64 % completing it. Note: two active participants dropped due to job responsibilities with Covid-19 contact tracing. We learned that to continue to be successful offering virtual workshops to tribal members we needed to address a lack of cultural inclusion. In working with our partners at GPTLHB, they created a list of some cultural practices and activities that could be woven into the workshop, but not affecting any of the fidelity or curricula of the Self-Management Resource Center programs. We also are working to rebrand the look to be more Native American represented for BCBH-SD programs specifically when offered to tribal communities. We will share feedback from a few of the participants from this workshop around six months after it concluded regarding any lifestyle changes they made or improved outcomes they noted. Three months post-workshop an attendee told us the workshop gave him more insight into his health and wellbeing, especially learning to watch labels and the menu planning and portions. He learned he ate too much salt! The second workshop is Cancer: Thriving and Surviving, a newer program for BCBH-SD, and one that had not yet been offered to tribal participants. The opportunity developed in relation to GPTLHB work with three different tribes in South Dakota after a Talking Circles activity for cancer survivors. We are excited to share more about this project in general, our tribal partnerships, findings in tribal workshops about the use of virtual delivery versus in-person attendance, and lessons learned and best practices developed from this pilot. This session will be of interest to anyone offering CDSME to tribal communities. |
Speaker(s)
Lori Oster, South Dakota State University Extension,
Jackie Rhode, Volunteer Master Trainer, SDSU Extension
Vicki Palmreuter, Program Manager, South Dakota Foundation for Medical Care
Richard Mousseau, Program Coordinator, Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board
Reducing Social Isolation and Promoting Engagement at Intergenerational Shared Sites During COVID-19 and Beyond
Overview
| Intergenerational shared sites make sense, in terms of reducing social isolation, creating livable communities and positively impacting participants’ lives. People of all ages have built-in opportunities to create meaningful relationships, find motivation, improve skills, and feel the joy of connection. In addition, shared sites create cost-efficiencies of sharing space, resources, personnel, rent and more. In this session, Generations United, the national organization focused on intergenerational programs and practices, will share their new toolkit on creating and strengthening intergenerational shared sites. Presenters will share the specific steps presenting in the toolkit, developed with support from The Eisner Foundation, to guide organizations including building partnerships, design and architectural considerations, staffing, training and activities that work. We will delve deeper into the critical role the build environment plays in facilitating intergenerational connections and what established programs can learn from the toolkit. The session will highlight how intergenerational shared site program can effectively reduce social isolation, promote engagement and foster healthy aging; and explore how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted these types of co-located programs. Specifically, presenters will share how on-site childcare is a critical support for many essential workers in older adult care and living facilities, and also discuss how these programs were able to safely continue to support intergenerational relationships through virtual and physical-distanced activities. The session will also feature on-the-ground perspective from a intergenerational shared site that has continued to sustain and build connections across generations throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. ONEgeneration in Van Nuys, California opened 40 years ago as a senior center, but in 1994, the addition of a childcare changed the nonprofit’s course. It’s now a model intergenerational shared site and one that serves a multicultural population where preschoolers learn Mandarin and Spanish, teachers speak 12 languages and the adults enrolled in the day program hail from 24 countries. |
Speaker(s)
Nancy Henkin, Senior Fellow, Generations United
Jenna Hauss, President and CEO, ONEgeneration
Storytelling Power: Engage, Educate and Energize Your Elders
Overview
| Digital storytelling is an effective tool for empowering your community, attracting potential donors, and educating policymakers and stakeholders. Learn how the National Indian Council on Aging (NICOA) has used storytelling to give voice to their elder members' concerns and shared those concerns with the Aging Network. Get ideas on how YOUR Organization can use digital storytelling and storytelling in general to amplify your vision and goals. Stories have long been a way to transfer knowledge, teach lessons, inspire, and motivate. Instead of using just facts and data to encourage your audience to embrace your cause, engage their emotions first. Stories do this by highlighting the universal human experiences that unite us all. Learn how NICOA is working with elders to convey their stories using talking circles, photos, narration, and music to create short 4-6 minute videos. NICOA staff will share their experiences in developing and implementing the Native Elder Storytelling Project. The session will be interactive with discussion and practical tips on how this approach could be implemented in your organization. The National Indian Council on Aging has advocated for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) elders since 1976. |
Speaker(s)
Rebecca Owl Morgan, Project Coordinator, National Indian Council on Aging
Cheryl Archibald, Executive Assistant, National Indian Council on Aging
U Trackin’: Traversing Intentional Conversations with Military Veterans
Overview
| Diverse individuals in our communities, who by nature of military service belong to a unique population group, are often woefully unaware of available veteran health services. As a result, our veterans are losing out on vital health care services and programs. The available options are nationally accessible and generally low cost. Our experience tells us more outreach is required to educate our underserved aging veteran population. Our team agrees the BEC program is exceptionally situated to play a role in filling the outreach void. We believe the BEC network agencies are ideally placed to work with former military personnel to establish trust and dispense valuable information about general VA health care support. With a small amount of training, the information dispersed will offer important choices to veterans, which equals individual empowerment. We will make available a short instructive video designed to immerse the audience in a simulated live call between a senior military individual and a BEC screener. Throughout the call, informal discussion material will provide insight into military culture, knowledgeable questions, trust building, and resource distribution. Our team has the objective to model how to effectively screen someone for VA benefits. The presentation will allow viewers to learn skills to pivot a routine BEC screening engagement into a truly collaborative experience. The end goal is to empower veterans with knowledge and choices. There will be time for audience questions. |
Speaker(s)
Janeil Esplin, Five County Area Agency on Aging,
Health and Wellness in Indian Country: Best Practices and Challenges for Implementing Evidence-Based Programs
Overview
| American Indian/Alaskan Native/Native Hawaiian (AI/AN/NH) communities experience a high prevalence of chronic conditions and falls among elders. One strategy to address these concerns is to increase the number of communities that offer evidence-based health promotion, disease prevention, and falls prevention programs. However, there are pros and cons to implementing programs that have been almost exclusively developed for and implemented with the majority population and without AI/AN/NH communities. This session will discuss the results of listening sessions with elders and program coordinators and a survey of Older Americans Act Title VI staff about preferences for choosing programs that are culturally relevant and reflect native wellness traditions. Discussion will include proposed strategic action items to adapt existing evidence-based programs for native communities, support new programs developed by native communities, and advocate for native communities’ ability to choose programs that work best for them. |
Speaker(s)
Kathleen Zuke, MPH (she/her), Associate Director, Center for Healthy Aging, National Council on Aging
Roxanne Thomas, , Inter Tribal Council of Arizona
Collette Adamsen, Director, National Resource Center on Native American Aging
Kathryn Braun, , University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Hā Kūpuna National Resource Center for Native Hawaiian Elders
Shannon Skowronski, Team Lead, Administration on Aging/Administration for Community Living
Turner Goins, , Western Carolina University
Veterans are Calling You - Are You Ready to Serve Them?
Overview
Do you have a father, mother, brother, sister, husband, or child who has served in the military? Most of us have a loved one or someone we know who has served in the military. And yet, we rarely have conversations about their service. It’s time to connect with our Veterans! Those who have served in the military don’t always access the benefits they have earned. Many turn their back to the doors of the VA because it can be a complicated and overwhelming entry process for those unfamiliar with its system and culture. Why leave benefits and services on the table…? But you can help! You can learn to navigate the VA! You can ask the right questions and build rapport with your Veteran clients. You can help them open the doors of the VA! They have served for us. And now we can help serve them. You will learn about and be ready to navigate the VA system, improve screening protocols and understand military culture. These skills and knowledge will help you to better serve your Veteran clients. This session will include “Ask Jen” – bring your questions on identifying VA partners in your community and how to connect with them!
Speaker(s)
Jennifer Morgan, NCOA Consultant, Utah State University - Institute on Disability Research, Policy & Practice
Economic Security
Tools on Increasing Your Engagement and Social Solutions
Overview
| Partners is an innovator of SDOH solutions, and we will be focusing on new outreach methods for CBOs. A technology supported call center and a not new approach in changing environment that helps improve your outcome and programs. We will be sharing distinctive methods though the power of technology which will allow you to expand your footprint/reach. Ultimately, having a greater impact on the populations you serve and allowing you to innovate and add new services lines to your current offerings. Below is an outline of the key methods of technology and services that will be exploring: Outreach Services: Inbound and Outbound Call Center: Experience staff trained in motivational. Interviewing and scripting. Utilizing strategic targeting (Geo-mapping capabilities) tool to focus on a cluster of populations. State of the art Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Patient Surveys: Net Promoter Scores (NPS) are highly valuable to health plans and payers. Selling Programs: Disease management programs. Enrollment into specific program - Health Homes as an example, etc. Setting Appointments: getting people to go preventive appointments – helps with HEDIS measures. Scheduling/Routing CHW/Social Workers Homes visits: – Dispatchers types of services Telephonic Interventions: • Conducting Comprehensive telephonic psycho-social assessment and creating care plans. • Coordination needs services and resources. • Connecting to local programs • Circling back with providers • Providing short-term care management services |
Speaker(s)
Virginia Carone, Senior Director of Network Services, Partners in Care Foundation
New Insights Into Cash Flow Challenges That Can Disrupt Homeownership in Later Life
Overview
| Financial planners and consumer advocates often encourage older Americans to determine whether they can continue to afford the costs associated with homeownership over time. Economically insecure homeowners, and those with many household stressors, may be especially vulnerable to losing their home in times of trouble. Those at greatest risk of mortgage default or foreclosure often experience changes in their life circumstances which result in a prolonged or permanent state of financial difficulty. However, it can be difficult to consider the challenges that homeowners might face two, ten, or 20 years into retirement. This session highlights findings from a new NCOA study that examines cash flow challenges which homeowners ages 62 and older could face over time. It highlights immediate and latent risks that could derail homeownership should income and expenses no longer add up. The presentation describes the prevalence and attributes of older homeowner households who are likely to be economically insecure, as measured by the Elder Index. It also reviews financial vulnerabilities– beyond income shortfalls – could disrupt a homeowner’s ability to age-in-place. These include declining health, major life transitions, need for additional help, homeowner expenses, and home livability. Because aging-in-place and homeownership can become more challenging at older ages, the discussion will highlight the prevalence of immediate and transitional financial risks, along with longer-term vulnerabilities whose impact on the household budget can be harder to predict. The session considers the impact of housing debt on household financial vulnerability. As they grow older and their retirement resources dwindle, homeowners could struggle to keep up with these payments and other expenses. The prevalence of at-risk households may rise in coming years as increasing numbers of retirees continue to hold a mortgage. Since the potential for financial trouble is rarely an isolated event, the NCOA study tallied the total number immediate, transition, and longer-term vulnerabilities for each household. The presentation describes the results of this tally. It also considers how susceptibility to potential financial disruptions varied by health status and poverty level. These households are at higher risk for a destabilizing financial shock due to a bundle of problems, either immediately or over time. Older homeowners have sources of strength as well as areas of vulnerability. The session includes a discussion of five potential sources of resilience that were tallied for each household. Reinforcing household resilience could offer a cost-effective way to increase flexibility to respond or adapt to changing circumstances. The discussion considers how developing new prevention and mitigation strategies could benefit households with constrained finances and other potentially destabilizing problems. This approach will be especially critical during periods of instability, when it is even more difficult to predict all the risks that may lie ahead. |
Speaker(s)
Barbara Stucki, Principal, BRSucki Consulting
Homesharing: A Collaborative Mission for Affordable Housing and Healthy Aging
Overview
| Affordable housing for a rapidly-growing aging population is one of the most pressing problems facing our nation. As individuals age, they want to remain in the homes and communities they love, yet many are financially unable to do so. Alarming statistics show about half of all U.S. households age 55 and up have no retirement savings at all. Homesharing – a model that involves renting out unused space to long-term housemates – is emerging as a viable option for aging adults who want to continue to live independently in a stable and safe home. It can also economically and socially benefit communities as a whole. Through homesharing, homeowners can an average of $10,000 a year in supplementary income that can go toward health care, home modifications and general living costs. Renters benefit by gaining access to housing that’s typically below market value. In addition to the financial payoffs, homesharing provides aging adults with companionship, which has proven essential to healthy aging. Prolonged social isolation is associated with significantly increased mortality risks, according to the National Academy of Sciences, and the Public Policy Institute estimates it costs the Medicare program an additional $6.7 billion a year. On a macro level, homesharing can help solve any number of particular challenges, such as leveraging the existing housing inventory without the need to build, heading off homelessness and expanding workforce housing options. This session will take a closer look at the emerging homesharing model, and present ideas for incorporating it into government, health care and social service initiatives. Three partnership case studies involving Homeshare Oregon, Home Share South Bay and Montgomery County Homesharing will illustrate strategies to think creatively about new resources in communities to stabilize housing, support homeless prevention and create economic security for aging residents. These models all use local knowledge and expertise, while partnering with Silvernest to scale their efforts and increase impact. |
Speaker(s)
Amy Ford, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Business Development, Silvernest
A Cup of Partnership and Support: Virtual Outreach & Engagement Around Benefits for Older Adults
Overview
A Cup of Partnership and Support: Virtual Outreach & Engagement Around Benefits for Older Adults
Speaker(s)
S. Orlene Grant, President, Founder, and CEO, Juanita C. Grant Foundation
Marva Overton, Executive Director, Alliance for African American Health in Central Texas.
Ana R. Melgoza, MPA, Vice President of External Affairs, San Ysidro Health
Monica Sibri, Director of Programs and Outreach at Latinos for a Secure Retirement, Latinos for a Secure Retirement
Lorena Silva-Edwards, Youth and Senior Services Director, Borderland Rainbow Center
Vivian Nava-Schellinger, Director, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Impact, The SCAN Foundation
Benefits Outreach to Diverse Elders: Messages that Work
Overview
| For three years, the Diverse Elders Coalition and the National Council on Aging (NCOA) have partnered to improve understanding of the economic security concerns of low-income older adults of color, LGBT older adults, and American Indian/Alaska Native Elders. Through a nationwide survey and message testing, we have sought to better understand diverse elders’ opinions of benefits programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and Medicare Savings Programs. Similarly, focus groups were held across the United States, hosted by the six-member organizations of the Diverse Elders Coalition. These research components were vital in our understanding of the perceptions of diverse elders regarding benefits messaging. Data from focus groups were gathered in the states of California, New York, Washington D.C., New Mexico, and well as many other states, particularly for American Indian and Alaska Native elders. Several of the focus groups were held in-language to account for limited English proficient elders. This session will highlight our findings and provide tips for messages and strategies that can strengthen benefits outreach for these audiences. Specifically, we’ll share: 1) The self-identified barriers to benefits enrollment for low-income diverse older adults. 2) The cultural and linguistic differences in outreach needed to reach diverse communities with benefits enrollment messaging. 3) The creative marketing elements that diverse older adults find most appealing, and how to utilize these in your advertising. |
Speaker(s)
Brandy Bauer, Director, Center for Benefits Access, National Council on Aging
Ocean Le, Program Coordinator, Diverse Elders Coalition
Promoting Economic Equality Through Innovative Solutions and Programs
Overview
| Older adults are entering into retirement with higher rates of financial security compared to previous generations. Future generations of retirees are experiencing higher rates of economic insecurity due to growing economic inequities and the frequency of national crises that cause a volatile market such as the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a lifespan approach, this session will examine the relationship of the effects of economic inequities experienced earlier in life and later life financial outcomes. The need for advanced digital tools programs to protect older adults increases as future generations of older adults become more technology savvy. This session will provide a discussion of the National Council on Aging’s approach to address this growing need through the creation of Age Well Planner, a digital tool that provides older adults with the tools and resources to improve older adults and pre-retiree’s economic security. The American Bankers Association Foundation provides programs to banks and consumers to address new challenges that arise. Safe Banking for Seniors (SBFS) is a free national program, sponsored by the ABA Foundation, that provides bankers with the tools and resources necessary to help older adults, their families and caregivers prevent elder financial abuse and exploitation. The program consists of six modules with presentations, activity sheets, resource sheets, and guides to help bankers and their local communities connect in: identifying and avoiding scams; preventing identity theft; choosing a financial caregiver, acting as a responsible financial caregiver, understanding powers of attorney, and choosing executors. |
Speaker(s)
Genevieve Waterman, Director, Corporate Partnerships & Engagement, National Council on Aging
Sam Kunjukunju, Senior Director, Bank Community Engagement, American Bankers Association
Older American’s Economic Insecurity During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Overview
| The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a hard toll on older adults. Mortality rates are higher among older people, particularly those who reside in institutional settings. Older adults of color are dying of COVID-19 complications at disproportionately higher rates. Whereas the health impacts of COVID-19 are well known, it is less clear how the pandemic has affected the finances of older Americans. To examine this question, Drs. Jane Tavares and Marc Cohen of the LeadingAge LTSS Center @UMass Boston on behalf of the National Council on Aging (NCOA) analyzed data from the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative dataset of adults age 50 and older. The analyses focused on two sets of research questions. The first examined older adults’ progression into food insecurity during the most recent economic downturn – the Great Recession – and how long it took food insecurity rates to recover to pre-recession levels. We also examined the role of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in lessening the relationship between poverty and food insecurity. The second examined how the total net wealth of adults age 60 and older deteriorated during the Great Recession of 2008, and how minority older adults were hit the hardest. The results of these analyses have implications for older adult’s economic situations and recovery during the current COVID-19 pandemic. The findings also highlight the need for racial equity and policies that help reduce disparities across racial and ethnic lines. The analysis suggests the critical importance of bolstering benefits programs such as SNAP to help older adults meet their basic needs during the current public health and economic crisis. In addition, of all individuals 65 and over living in poverty, almost two thirds of them are women. Black, Indigenous, and Latinx women over age 65 are living in poverty at two times the rate of white older women. Some of the biggest factors contributing to older women’s economic insecurity include caregiving responsibilities that fall primarily on women, job-based discrimination that leads to lower lifetime earnings, and subsequently lower retirement income from sources like as Social Security. For women of color, the drivers of poverty are compounded by enduring and systemic discrimination over their lifetime. Justice in Aging’s presenters will discuss the effects of systemic racism and other discriminatory systems and policies to understand why women of color are more likely to age into poverty, and how the current COVID-19 pandemic impacts women of color disproportionately, further worsening their economic insecurity. Goal and Audience: The first goal of the presentation is to share the results of research which explored the economic hardship faced by older Americans during the pandemic. The second goal is to educate those who do advocacy on behalf of older adults about economic insecurity among older adult women of color, identify the contributing factors, and share ideas about potential solutions to address these problems, combat poverty, and increase women’s opportunities to build wealth over time. |
Speaker(s)
Lauren Popham, Associate Director, Research and Evaluation, National Council on Aging
Tracey Gronniger, Directing Attorney, Economic Security, Justice in Aging
Jane Tavares, Researcher, LeadingAge LTSS Center @UMass BOston
Improving State Payment of Medicare Premiums for Low-income Older Adults
Overview
| Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) provide payment of Medicare premiums and other cost-sharing for millions of low-income Medicare beneficiaries. For decades, counselors and advisors have expressed frustration about kinks and confusion in the MSP program that result in long delays, and denials for their clients. Many state Medicaid agencies expressed similar confusion. In September 2020, CMS published an updated manual to states to help them improve the program and the customers they serve. Presenters will provide an overview on the options available to states to pay Medicare premiums and present on key policy topics which can improve how state Medicaid agencies can modernize the MSP in their state by fixing longstanding problems. Presenters will also discuss how to develop working relationships with state Medicaid agencies and provide some examples of common client problems and how they can be resolved. |
Speaker(s)
Leslie Fried, Senior Director of the Center for Benefits Access, National Council on Aging
Kim Glaun, Senior Technical Director, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicare-Medicaid Coordination Office
BenefitsCheckUp®: Demonstration and Discussion
Overview
| The purpose of this session are to demonstrate and explain BenefitsCheckUp® (BCU) as well as to seek feedback regarding the site and how it can be useful to benefits professionals. We will demonstrate the different tools within BCU and highlight that the site is now available in Spanish. This will include the detailed screening questionnaire and the Resources page that includes features such as the SNAP Map. Additionally, we are planning to implement some changes to the design of BCU in the next year, so we would like the opportunity for feedback on the site and how it can be improved. BenefitsCheckUp® (BCU) is National Council on Aging’s online tool that helps older adults and people with disabilities find benefits programs to help them pay for things like prescription drugs, health care, utilities, and other basic needs. In some cases, programs are available, but the people who need help do not know the programs exist or they assume they would not qualify. The site also collects information about resources such as transportation programs and local area agencies on aging. The target audience for this presentation is benefits enrollment specialists, other professionals who have contact with low-income older adults or people with disabilities, as well as non-professionals. BCU was created for both professionals and individuals seeking help for themselves or a family member. The session will help attendees become more familiar with BenefitsCheckUp and ask questions about using the site. Moreover, because there are planned changes and improvements to BCU in the next year, we are very interested in feedback regarding the site. This would include feedback from those familiar with the site about how it could be improved, as well as discussion of features or functions not currently included in BCU that may be a reason for professionals to incorporate the site into their work. |
Speaker(s)
Abby Pound, Content and Research, BenefitsCheckUp, National Council on Aging
Andrew McIntyre, Research and Content Specialist, National Council on Aging
Anaiya Lewis, Specialist, Customer Support, National Council on Aging
Helping Your Older Clients Navigate Common Problems with Debt
Overview
An increasing number of older adults are carrying debt into their later years. The share of older householders with debt grew from 50 percent in 2001 to 66 percent in 2019, and the average amount they owed grew from $72,000 to $111,000 during the same period. Mortgage debt is the largest type of debt that older adults typically carry. Student loans are the fastest-growing type of debt for older adults. As more older adults carry these debts, the frequency of problems with making payments and dealing with lenders and servicers has increased. When older adults do experience problems, the problems tend to be similar to those experienced by younger consumers, such as poor customer service, errors processing payments, and unexpected fees. For some segments of the older population, especially low- to moderate-income older adults, surviving spouses and adults ages 75 and older, these problems are more common and these groups often face unique challenges. These groups are more likely to experience issues arising from the inability to make their monthly payments, such as Social Security offsets, debt collection and foreclosures. Low-income and older clients may need extra support to facilitate the resolution of the financial issues they experience with lenders and servicers. A 2016 survey by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau found that compared to higher-income older adults, low-income older adults were less familiar with agencies and organizations that could help them resolve the problem. These challenges pose an immediate threat to the financial well-being of older consumers. Ongoing financial difficulties can diminish the value of the benefits and extra income that Area Agencies on Aging and other community organizations help their clients apply for and receive. If lower-income older adults do not get the support they need to resolve financial problems, the problems can grow over time and negatively impact many aspects of their lives and communities. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing federal consumer protection laws. As part of this effort, the CFPB developed a system to gather complaints from consumers and connect consumers with companies to facilitate the resolution of the issue they describe in the complaint. Also, the CFPB has an office dedicated to the financial protection of older. This session will examine trends and challenges faced by older consumers with making payments on their debts and dealing with lenders and servicers through the lens of the CFPB’s complaint system, including complaints received from consumers during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this session, experts from the CFPB’s Office for Older Americans will cover basic consumer protections and free resources you can use to meet the unique needs of your clients. The session will also discuss how to submit a complaint to the CFPB when a client has a problem with a financial product or service. At the end of the session, participants will be equipped with free resources and empowered to use these resources to help their clients navigate problems with lenders and servicers and reduce their debt.
Speaker(s)
Katelyn Kramer, Policy Analyst, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Healthy Living
Conquering COVID-19: Offering VIRTUAL Fall Risk Screening and Fall Prevention Programs for Older Adults
Overview
| The National Council on Aging (NCOA) has overseen the Falls Free coalition (since 2006) supporting each state in meeting needs for fall prevention for elders. Nevada joined this effort in 2010 with oversight for the Nevada Goes Falls Free coalition (NGFF) championed at first by the Touro University Nevada’s College of Health & Human Services (TUN CHHS) and now expanded to include University of Nevada – Las Vegas (UNLV), Dignity Healthcare and many other partners. The primary focus of NGFF is to promote statewide fall prevention for older adults through fall risk screenings, dissemination of evidence-based fall prevention (EBFP) programs, education of healthcare providers and older adults. NGFF maintains the state’s license for Stepping On (SO), has introduced Tai Ji Quan – Moving for Better Balance (TJQMBB) into the state with a new master trainer, and promotes the Otago Exercise Program (OEP) to both physical and occupational therapists. Each year, many fall risk screening events are held during Fall Prevention Awareness Day or Week followed by offerings of each of the EBFP’s. Beginning as a fully volunteer effort, the NGFF work in the past two years has been supported through state grants from the Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division allowing us to increase geographic reach, partnerships, and dissemination. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic faced us and all states with the need to close down all face-to-face offerings of both fall risk screening events and EBFP programs. The social isolation needed to limit the rampant spread of COVID increased the fall risk and rates. The new call to frequently gather meals, groceries, medication deliveries and various household tools from the front door is introducing new types of falls. We have long known that lack of physical activity, social interactions, depression and poor self-efficacy may all increase fall risk. With the new normal of our society to prevent COVID-19, we realized that effective fall prevention required that we find safe virtual methods to measure fall risk and offer appropriate fall prevention programs well-selected to meet each individual’s needs. Soon after the closures for COVID-19 prevention, NGFF requested permission to offer SO and TJQMBB virtually. TJQMBB began via Zoom beginning in April 2020. The program was a huge success and we continued to hold classes. We would love to share our experiences with the class participants’ opinions, completion rates and outcomes. Recently, we began working with Wisconsin to be able to offer SO virtually as well, possibly in 2021. Annually, NGFF plans fall risk screenings in celebration of Fall Prevention Awareness Week. This year, despite COVID-19 limitations, we were able to design and offer virtual fall risk screenings using portions of the CDC’s STEADI fall risk toolkit. Although our participant numbers were modest, our results were very positive. We would like to share our approach, the additional supports needed and our lessons learned for next year. Early planning and education will maximize the effectiveness of virtual fall risk management. Open discussion amongst the conference participants will help to fine-tune the approach. |
Speaker(s)
Mindy Renfro, Associate Professor in Physical Therapy, Touro University Nevada
Jennifer Nash, Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy, University of Nevada - Las Vegas (UNLV)
Shannon Martin,OTR/L, OTD, BCG, Associate Professor, Touro University Nevada
Bingocize®: A Web-based Falls Prevention Program to Improve Quality of Life and Promote Social Engagement
Overview
| Physical activity programs designed to improve physical, psychosocial, and cognitive benefits have the potential to reduce health care costs and improve quality of life for older adults. To that end, we strategically combined bingo, exercise, and health education to create an innovative group-based program (Bingocize®) and found significant improvements in older adults’ social engagement, functional performance, health knowledge, and cognition. Bingocize®, an offline and web-based app, are led by trained facility staff. Meeting the Administration for Community living’s criteria for falls prevention programs, senior centers, long-term care, and assisted living facilities across the US and other countries use the program. The purpose of this presentation is to describe the development, implementation, and benefits of Bingocize®. Participants will also experience the program by playing Bingocize® remotely using the web-based app. Allison Goforth, Program Director for the Partners in Care Foundation in San Fernando, California, will describe her experiences implementing the program and the many benefits gained by participating older adults. |
Speaker(s)
Dr. Jason Crandall, Western Kentucky University, Western Kentucky University Center for Applied Science in Health & Aging
Allison Goforth, Program Director, Partners in Care Foundation
Managing Pain: Virtual Delivery of Exercise and Behavioral Health
Overview
| Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability in older adults. Exercise is recommended for managing knee OA, but physical activity levels are low in this population. Therefore, we are conducting a randomized controlled trial of cognitive-behavioral skills training in combination with Enhance®Fitness (EF), a community-based, group exercise program that is available in >800 sites nationally. Before COVID-19, over 25,000 older persons with multiple chronic conditions were participating in in-person EF classes in their communities across 43 states. In March 2020 when COVID-19 necessitated the adoption of physical distancing and shelter-at-home guidelines, the PACIFIC Research Team began exploring ways to keep their work moving forward. Through an iterative user-design process, we engaged key stakeholders to adapt EF to Tele-EF, a virtual format, and conducted a pilot study of Tele-EF that led to encouraging early learnings. For example, participants preferred direct access to helpful people who could troubleshoot and provide guidance with technology. After working with participants and launching Tele-EF, attendance rates of in-person EF (pre-COVID-19) vs. Tele-EF did not differ statistically (median attendance rates >90% pre-COVID-19 [in-person classes] and with Tele-EF). Through assuring support and engagement, our study shows that older adults with painful knee OA are motivated and able to overcome potential technological barriers to participate in livestream, instructor-led, group exercise from home. These findings jumpstarted efforts by Project Enhance at Sound Generations to stand up remote delivery nationwide. This work also illustrates the value of academic-community partnership to promote physical activity among older adults during the pandemic. The University of Washington and Project Enhance are currently partnering on expanding implementation of tele-EF in rural health care systems. |
Speaker(s)
Paige Denison (she/her), Director - Health, Wellness and Project Enhance, Sound Generations
Kushang V. Patel, Research Associate Professor, SOM: Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine: Pain Medicine Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine
Falls Prevention During COVID: Creating Virtually Proficient Facilitators
Overview
| Learn about NCOA’s Falls Free CheckUp tool and how it can be used to help older adults learn their falls risk. |
Speaker(s)
Belynda Rivers, Project Manager, New York City Department for the Aging
Meghan Shineman, Director, Program Devlopment & Health Care Innovations, New York City Department for the Aging
Dr. Phil McCallion, PhD, Director, Professor, Social Work, Temple University
Identifying and Addressing Mental Health Needs for Aging Adults
Overview
| Mental health is just as important as physical health. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It impacts the way we think, how we feel, and how we act. Our mental health also guides our relationships with others, influences our daily choices, and our ability to cope. The population in the United States is getting older, between 2016-2040 the number of individuals 85 and older are projected to increase by 129%. Currently, over eight million U.S. adults ages 65 or older have a mental health or substance use disorder and two-thirds of this population do not receive the treatment they need. Undiagnosed and untreated mental health disorders are associated with poor health outcomes, higher healthcare utilization, increased disability and impairment, compromised quality of life, increased caregiver stress, higher risk of suicide, and increased mortality. Mental health issues in older adults are greatly under-reported. The unique age-related health and life challenges older adults face can attribute to one of the reasons mental health issues are not being adequately addressed. Older adults are less likely to notify a health care provider of symptoms related to mental health problems because of the stigma. Depression, anxiety, bi-polar and eating disorders are the top mental health issues this population experiences. Symptoms of these disorders often lead to feeling suicidal. People 65 and older experience the highest rate of suicide in the nation with one elderly person dying by suicide every hour and 23 minutes in America. The Kaiser Family Foundation reports aging adults may be especially vulnerable to the effects of social distancing and isolation, finding those who primarily stayed at home during the pandemic experienced greater concern and worry about COVID than those who did not. One in four adults age 65 and older reported anxiety and depression only 6 months into the pandemic. Mental health illnesses are treatable and recovery is possible. But when people do not know what to do or how to help, they make the choice to do nothing. This session will empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to bridge the gap and help connect people to the mental health resources in their community. |
Speaker(s)
Roseanne Scammahorn, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension
Lorrissa Dunfee, Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension
engAGING Approach to Addressing Social Isolation through Transportation
Overview
| Access to transportation can have a profound impact on the quality of life of older adults. Without transportation, an individual may experience loss of independence and reduce their involvement in social activities. Connecting older adults to available transportation in their communities supports connection to essential services as well as participation in life-enhancing activities and civic engagement. This session will highlight the importance of transportation in addressing social isolation of older adults, discuss how COVID-19 has impacted older adults and the availability of community transportation services, showcase examples of creative interventions that have the potential to counter these impacts, and discuss the possibility long-term solutions to these current challenges. |
Speaker(s)
Melissa Gray, Assistant Director of Transportation, National Association of Area Agencies on Aging
Rebecca Levine, Senior Program Manager, engAGED: The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults, National Association of Area Agencies on Aging
Helping Medicare Beneficiaries Stay Connected
Overview
| The Connecticut State Unit on Aging (SUA) developed the “Stay Connected” program to identify older adults and persons with disabilities at risk of social isolation who would most benefit from access to Assistive Technology. The Area Agencies on Aging and Centers for Independent Living in Connecticut are using a validated Social Isolation instrument to identify those most in need of intervention. Those who meet the criteria, are offered an Assistive Technology consultation from an Assistive Technology partner and then training and support so individuals will be able to feel comfortable using the recommended technology to stay connected to friends, family, medical providers and community. Technology can also be used for online shopping and banking to increase independence. Since three of the five Centers for Independent Living in Connecticut are also contracted to offer assistance to individuals losing Medicaid Expanded benefits due to age or Medicare status, the MIPPA ADRC counselors are using this opportunity to screen for social isolation. Counselors are discussing the Medicare Savings Program and Low-Income Subsidy and then screening for social isolation using the same validated instrument used by the Stay Connected project. The presenters will be providing information to attendees on the negative health consequences for prolonged social isolation and the role counselors can play to address this issue. |
Speaker(s)
Patricia Richardson, Field Representative, Statewide ADRC Coordinator, Department of Aging and Disability Services
Brian Naylor, Independent Living Advocate, Independence Northwest, Inc.
Equitable Access: Creating Safe Food Programs for Food Insecure Seniors
Overview
| More than 5.3 million seniors in the United States face food insecurity, which means they struggle to get enough food to live a healthy, active life. Many face difficult trade-offs between paying for food, or paying for medical care, transportation, or housing. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the evidence that seniors are more severely affected by the disease caused by COVID-19, meant that food banks serving food insecure seniors had to jump into action and make quick, meaningful changes. Join Feeding America and their network of food banks to hear about senior food program approaches like food delivery and proxy services, lessons learned, and crucial partnerships to ensure food insecure seniors could safely receive the critical services of the food bank. |
Speaker(s)
Rose Saltalamacchia, Program Manager, Senior Hunger, Feeding America
Implementation of a Fall Prevention Program for Community-dwelling Older Adults Living in Senior Apartments
Overview
| Falls have a significant impact on older adults’ lives, including decreased ability to complete daily activities, injury, and death. Many of these falls occur in the home. Effective evidence-based programs, including home hazard removal with an occupational therapist, can reduce falls for community-dwelling older adults. Home hazard removal involves assessment of the older adult and their home environment, individualized modifications to remove home hazards, and follow-up training and education. Modifications include changes to the home such as securing rugs, adding seating for bathing activities, or adding toilet safety rails. A previous study of a home hazard removal program (HARP) with community-dwelling older adults at high risk for falls demonstrated a 38% reduction in falls. Implementation of effective interventions is an imperative next step to reduce the impact of falls on the older adult population. To address this, implementation of a new program of evidence-based fall risk screening based on the CDC’s Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths and Injury (STEADI) combined with HARP was evaluated using a stepped-wedge randomized cluster trial within independent living senior apartments. The goals of this study were to determine whether the program is acceptable and feasible for older adults living in senior housing and whether the program is cost-effective as well as effective in reducing falls. Ten buildings designated for older adults were enrolled in the trial for 609 days. The buildings were run by a nonprofit organization in urban and rural St. Louis areas, with nine designated as Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Supportive Housing for Elderly Section 202 facilities. In total, the buildings house up to 586 residents. Initially, all buildings were in the control period of the study. Every 75 days, two buildings were taken from the control group and added to the intervention program, until all buildings converted from control to treatment. Building staff, including managers, service coordinators, and maintenance workers, were trained to assist with program implementation. Residents were offered the opportunity to participate in fall monitoring for the duration of the study. Every resident was offered fall risk screening using an adapted version of the STEADI guidelines and fall prevention education. Residents who were identified as high risk by the screening process were offered the HARP program. The results of the stepped-wedge randomized control trial will be reviewed. This presentation will also provide information on the implementation process including program requirements, training, and engagement strategies for staff and residents followed by discussion of real-world challenges to fall prevention implementation. This presentation is designed to provide information on evidence-based fall prevention and program implementation for all aging service providers. |
Speaker(s)
Marian Keglovits, Instructor, Washington University
Susan Stark, Associate Professor, Washington University School of Medicine
Relating Exercise to Activities of Daily Living in Older Adults: A Novel Way to Teach
Overview
Viewing fitness under the lens of the individual’s ability to perform activities of daily living with minimal pain or physical limitation should be a key priority for the aging population. This presentation will address the importance of improving the fitness level of older adults by relating the exercises they perform to their everyday activities. By relating the ability to make daily activities easier, we may keep our aging population healthier and more active. During the pandemic older adults exercised less. Gyms and studios were closed. Online classes are not geared toward the older adult, and provide little social interaction. Exercise programs typically lack context for how exercise helps with activities of daily living. What the older adult needs is a well-rounded exercise program that will keep them able to perform these activities, prevent falls, and reduce pain. Exercises must focus on four pillars: strength, balance, flexibility and endurance. For example, a strength exercise like a squat could be described as being useful to remove laundry from a front-end wash machine. Bicep curls may be helpful to start a lawn mower, pick up heavy groceries or a grandchild. Balance exercises, like a single leg balance may prevent a fall or broken hip when bending over to pick up something that has fallen to the floor. Unfortunately, sedentary lifestyle is becoming the norm for many older adults as they wait out the pandemic. The wait has been longer than expected. This inactivity, leads to muscle weakness, stiffness, pain and reinforces the perception that old people just get weak as they age. We must focus our efforts on how we view, teach or counsel fitness. Just as John Kennedy did in the early 60s for children and young adults, we have an obligation to focus on the growing number of older adults. This focus is necessary to minimize health issues that drive up the cost of care and stretch our financial resources. There are several things we should do moving forward. Healthcare providers have influence and authority and should encourage their older patients to work with persons or groups that understand the importance of above-mentioned four pillars of fitness and have the ability to teach it to the older adult. These healthcare providers may also need education on the importance of this type of fitness. The fitness instructors should focus their programs on the four pillars of exercise. Fitness instructors should emphasize the importance of how specific exercises can improve the ability perform specific tasks. Insurers such as Medicare should reinforce this and provide these benefits to their patients. The last component is to assess the outcomes of an exercise program in the older adult. A simple sit to stand can be an indication of improved strength. Improved outcomes can hopefully be linked to reduced healthcare costs and improved quality of life. Any center that is teaching fitness to older adults should ensure that they hire those that have this skill set to keep the older adult engaged, active and at optimal health.
Speaker(s)
Sandra Feaster, Owner, Turning 60 and Beyond, T60Plus
Home Modifications and the Role of Occupational Therapists in Longevity and Safety
Overview
| An AARP Bulletin in Oct 2018 found that 77% of people older than age 50 want to age in their own homes for as long as possible. And 36% want to modify their homes to accommodate the physical and cognitive changes and enable them to live at home. Home modifications and adaptations allow clients of all ages with health conditions, sensory or movement impairments, or cognitive disorders to continue and perform necessary and desired daily activities (occupations), in their dwellings. Studies have indicated that those who have modified their homes thrive better. Housing redesign can also support their quality of life, promote independence and reduce community caregiving needs among older adults. Additionally, improving safety is essential for enabling successful aging. Home modifications adapt the living spaces to increase accessibility, independence and safety. The home modification process includes evaluating the needs, identifying and implementing solutions, training, and assessing outcomes. The process may comprise recommendations for adaptation, adjustments, or additions to the home space. Changes may utilize specialized, customized, off-the-shelf, or universally designed technologies; low- or high-tech devices, products, hardware controls, equipment, finishes, furnishings etc; other changes may alter the layout and structure of the home for accessibility. Occupational Therapists who are specially trained in home modifications focus their assessments on safety and identifying barriers in the context of ADL (activity of daily living) performance. They determine how the environment affects a person’s ability to participate in tasks. OTs evaluate an individual’s balance, coordination, endurance, safety awareness, strength, attention, problem solving, vision, communication, and many other functions while performing daily tasks. While analyzing how a person completes an activity at home, OTs consider an individual’s condition, potential physiological changes and personal goals. OTs incorporate the findings when reviewing aspects of the home that may require modification. Occupational Therapists may recommend modifications that would facilitate performance, increase safety, optimize independence and healthy aging. The intervention plan may also include but is not limited to strategies such as adaptive equipment/devices, technology, family caregiver training, or remodeling. OTs may also suggest techniques in simplifying tasks, provide energy conservation strategies and recommend body mechanics to carry out functions efficiently. With knowledge of evidence-based studies on fall prevention and safety, OTs can guide clients to appropriate programs that would help improve balance and coordination. Factors that contribute to a fall and how to mitigate it will also be discussed. In this presentation, the speaker will also offer visuals on commonly done home modifications and include possible funding sources. |
Speaker(s)
Mariella Zuniga, OTR, CAPS, ECHM, MBA, Adaptive Home Living, LLC
Using Data to Drive Connections: Participation in CDSME Reduces Loneliness
Overview
| Partners in Care Foundation are innovators in the social determinants of health, which led the organization to join the Los Angeles Social Isolation Impact Coalition at the Motion Picture and Television Fund when the Coalition was first created in 2017. At the first few meetings, summit leadership and academic partners advocated for community-based organizations working with older adults to begin to collect data about social isolation and loneliness among the populations they serve. This request was made to help the community determine what interventions have positive effects on social isolation and loneliness. Partners in Care began collecting the 3-item Campaign to End Loneliness Measurement Tool in March 2018. With the help of a Geriatric Social Work Education Consortium (GSWEC) intern, pre-COVID-19 data were analyzed to see if participating in evidence-based health and wellness programs, provided in-person at community sites, impacted loneliness among adults 60+. Preliminary analyses were refined by external evaluators, which showed that participation in Chronic Disease Self-Management Education (CDSME) programs impacted participants’ loneliness. Stated differently, CDSME program participants reported significant reductions in loneliness scores from baseline to post-workshop (P<0.001). These reductions in loneliness were universal across CDSME workshop type, workshop language, and delivery site type. These findings highlight the need for community-based organizations to collect data to show outcomes. Although collecting data can be burdensome, we cannot show the value of our efforts unless we measure, document, and report. |
Speaker(s)
Dianne Davis MPH, Vice President, Community Wellness, Partners in Care Foundation
Christy Ann Lau, MSSW, Senior Director, Community Wellness, Partners in Care Foundation
Matthew Smith PhD, MPH, CHES, Associate Professor, Texas A&M University
Falls Prevention: Bringing Awareness and Education to Your Community in September and Year-Round
Overview
| Learn about NCOA’s Falls Free CheckUp tool and how it can be used to help older adults learn their falls risk. |
Speaker(s)
Michelle Mai, Senior Program Associate, National Council on Aging
Questions and Answers with Dr. Kate Lorig about the Self-Management Resource Center Suite of Programs
Overview
| Questions and Answers with Dr. Kate Lorig about the Self-Management Resource Center Suite of Programs |
Speaker(s)
Kathleen Zuke, MPH (she/her), Associate Director, Center for Healthy Aging, National Council on Aging
Kate Lorig, Dr.P.H., Partner, Self-Management Resource Center
Latest from the Field: Older Adult Mental Health
Overview
| Hear the latest from the field on the topic of older adult mental health by checking out this session originally featured during the 4th Annual Older Adult Mental Health Awareness Day symposium held on May 6, 2021! The symposium addresses some of the most important issues facing our society today and identifies solutions for a path forward. To view the full on-demand symposium for free, please visit https://connect.ncoa.org/oamha... |
Speaker(s)
Laura Plunkett, Senior Program Specialist, Center for Healthy Aging, National Council on Aging
Exploring Early Remote Delivery and Findings
Overview
With the expansion of remote programing due to the outstanding circumstances of COVID-19. We are interested in learning about the transition process to remote delivery and early findings of the participant demographics compared to in-person programming. We also want to explore the trends in outcomes to glean insights into the effectiveness of remote programming. This presentation will highlight the transition to remote and exploring early remote delivery and findings. The important role evidence-based programs have been highlighted during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The current public health challenge has highlighted the needs of the medically vulnerable – including the older adult population – in addition to underscoring the necessity of adapting programs for remote delivery settings. In this session, we will leverage data from ACL grantees – as collected by the National Council on Aging – to glean insights about the transition process to remote delivery. We will also compare-and-contrast the pre-pandemic in-person delivery of evidence-based falls-prevention and Chronic Disease Self-Management Education programs and the predominantly remote delivery of these interventions amid COVID-19. We will highlight findings on data related to program implementation, such as number of workshops, average class size, ad completion rate, compare participant demographics of those who participate in-person and remote workshops , and share trends in program outcome measures. Additionally, we discuss the best practices and lessons-learned from ACL grantees as they transitioned to remote-intervention delivery and how these learnings may sustain after the pandemic.
Speaker(s)
Tia Crayton, Data Management and Evaluation Specialist, National Council on Aging
Inside Outreach to Hard to Reach Populations
Overview
| Collectively our panel has over 50+ years in reaching out and connecting hard to reach populations. Hear how our panelists used a host of outreach tools from mailings to online tools to connect with local partners as well as directly with consumers. The session will provide insight into understanding the population your looking to serve, identifying culturally appropriate partnership and outreach, responding to unforeseen obstacles and measurement of success. |
Speaker(s)
Ann Kayrish, Senior Program Manager for Medicare, National Council on Aging
Darci Graves, Health Insurance Specialist, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Office of Minority Health
Veronica Kell, MIPPA Grant and Volunteer Coordinator, Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA)
Susan Neff, Aging Services Supervisor, Pennsylvania Department of Aging
Carroll Astin, Director, Arkansas Sr. Health Insurance Information Program
EngAGING Seniors to Walk With Ease
Overview
| In 2020, COVID-19 made it nearly impossible for organizations to offer evidence-based programs in community settings. Community-based organizations such as senior centers, recreation and parks facilities, health clubs, and YMCAs were forced to adopt new ways to continue to serve their members and constituents. While the majority of the mainstream evidence-based health promotion and disease prevention programs were not developed nor evaluated for remote delivery, one program was – the Arthritis Foundation’s Walk With Ease self-directed program. Prior to COVID-19, both formats of Walk With Ease (group and self-directed) were included on the Administration for Community Living’s list “Title III-D Highest Tier Evidence-Based Health Promotion/Disease Prevention Programs.” Thus, the program was poised for delivery during a time when social distancing was a public health necessity. Research has shown evidence-based health promotion and disease prevention programs enhance the health and happiness of thousands of people in the US and around the world each year. Organizations can sustain these programs by ensuring that virtual models, including the Walk With Ease self-directed program, are incorporated into their menu of program options. In fact, some organizations are actually finding that they are able to reach people now, with virtual delivery, who may not have had access to the organization’s programs prior to COVID-19. While we all hope for a return to some semblance of “normal” in the near future, COVID-19 taught many of us that programs like evidence-based health promotion and disease prevention programs can and should be delivered multi-modally in order to reach as many people as possible. The Walk With Ease program – self-directed and enhanced self-directed – can help those organizations that are still not yet sure how to launch into this “new world” of online health program delivery. This session will provide insights into the tools and resources provided by the Osteoarthritis Action Alliance (OAAA), including a Walk With Ease Toolkit and online registration, that can assist community-based organizations in adopting and delivering Walk With Ease. We will also share our insights and experience marketing the program, highlighting the engagement messages that resonate with people and motivate them to register for Walk With Ease. We will also share lessons learned and participant feedback from the North Carolina Center for Health and Wellness’s experience offering enhanced Self-Directed Walk With Ease. |
Speaker(s)
Serena Weisner, Director of Community Programs, Osteoarthritis Action Alliance
Nadia Mazza, CDC Arthritis and Chronic Pain Project Manager, North Carolina Center for Health and Wellness and UNC Asheville
Nicholas Beresic, Director of Communications, Osteoarthritis Action Alliance
Public Policy & Advocacy
Older Americans Act Data – COVID, Older Americans Act Performance System & Beyond
Overview
"This presentation will discuss current hot topics relating to Older Americans Act (OAA) data for Title III programs. Presenters will review: - preliminary national data on services provided in FFY 2020 with OAA and supplemental COVID funding (via the Families First Coronavirus Response Act - $240m for Title III and CARES Act - $780m for Title III in addition to regular OAA appropriation); - implementation of new State Program Report requirements (often referred to in the field as the “NAPIS report”) and the Older Americans Act Performance System (OAAPS) as of October 1, 2021; - other ACL data resources and initiatives, such as the National Survey of Older Americans Act Participants and the AGing, Independence, and Disability (AGID) Program Data Portal. The target audience for the presentation includes: - Attendees working on national, state, or local advocacy relating to older adults and family caregivers - State, Area Agency on Aging, and local program managers of OAA Title III-funded services - Researchers, educators, and those interested in data issues relating to services for older adults and family caregivers By understanding current data available and planned data changes, participants be informed by the latest data and learn how they can take advantage of existing ACL data resources for proposals, education and advocacy, and program management!"
Speaker(s)
Amy Wiatr-Rodriguez, Director, Center for Regional Operations, Administration for Community Living (ACL)
Susan Jenkins, Director, Office of Performance and Evaluation, Administration for Community Living (ACL)
Leveraging Public Private Partnerships to Build Livable Communities
Overview
| Successful Aging and Living in San Antonio (SALSA) was created by the San Antonio Area Foundation to increase leadership, collaboration and funding to ensure older adults have access to necessary services, information and support systems. Starting with community-based research, strategic planning and collaboration, SALSA's mission is to transform our community by advancing practices and policies that improve the quality of life of vulnerable older adults in Bexar County. SALSA has aligned their work to that of the World Health Organization’s Eight Domains of Livability. These domains have also been adopted by AARP and the City of San Antonio, creating a collaborative focus on aging successfully. SALSA is a collective impact initiative. “Collective impact” describes an intentional way of working together and sharing information for the purpose of solving a complex problem. Proponents of collective impact believe that the approach is more likely to solve complex problems than if a single nonprofit were to approach the same problem(s) on its own. SALSA participants are a combination of individuals and organizations, with representatives from the business community, local government and the social sector. SALSA partners are working on issues of housing, transportation, socialization, engagement, health, and caregiver support. The combination of utilization of evidence-based programming along with monitoring health outcomes and senior center participation is an innovation in providing low cost effective services to both populations. This model is replicable in every community as we look for ways to address the needs of older adults and increase the livability of our communities. Presenters will use strategies to encourage discussion among participants including posing questions for open discussion and use of the chat function to encourage open dialogue during the session. |
Speaker(s)
Deborah Billa, Grants Manager, WellMed Charitable Foundation
Tina Smith, Director, Caregiver Programs, WellMed Charitable Foundation
Carol Zernial, MA, Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility and Foundation Executive Director, WellMed
Undocumented Older Adults: What We Can Expect by 2030
Overview
| Undocumented older adults face pervasive and structural barriers due to their immigration status that block them from the services older adults depend on to successfully age in place. An estimated 3,986 undocumented immigrant older adults live in Illinois, but that number is expected to grow to 55,144 by 2030. This presentation discusses a two-part study that highlights the policy, community, organizational, and practice implications of an aging undocumented community. Due to irregular immigration status, this growing population is ineligible for Medicare, Medicaid, and a number of public benefits older adults typically rely on such as home health, homemaker services, rehab, medications, public housing, and more. Through discussion and interactive case studies, participants will learn more about this issue of growing concern, potential policy and practice solutions, and discuss implications for health equity, advocacy, and change. |
Speaker(s)
Padraic Stanley, MSW, LCSW, Program Manager, Rush University Medical Center
Senior Centers
Is Your Center "Vision" Friendly?
Overview
| At least 12 million Americans over the age of 60 report significant difficulty seeing resulting in reduced ability to engage in necessary daily tasks or activities they once found enjoyable. Accurately taking medications, getting groceries, cooking, reading mail, and other mundane chores can seem impossible without assistance. The current pandemic-related restrictions have intensified social isolation, loneliness, anxiety, and dependence leading to diminished physical and mental health of older people with vision loss. Without intervention, these devastating effects can have a lasting effect. Mounting evidence supports a link between vision impairment and risk for dementia and mild cognitive impairment. This correlation is particularly notable in women, and those with more significant visual impairment are at greater risk. Furthermore, all the challenges associated with living with reduced sight have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Barriers to older people with vision loss accessing tools and services necessary for living an independent, engaged, and meaningful life include but are not limited to: 1) vision issues are largely ignored in public policy; one important example is that vision loss and related issues are not mentioned in the Older Americans Act nor are they routinely addressed; 2) a dearth of understanding of age-related vision loss and corresponding professional interventions for older people among the aging network, health care providers, and even eyecare professionals; 3) severely inadequate public funding for vision rehabilitation services for older people (less than $3 per person); 4) extremely limited funding for accessible technology and training on its usage and even less for connectivity; 5) limited, inaccessible and unaffordable public transportation options; 6) social determinants of health obstruct the timely and effective treatment of chronic medical conditions including age-related vision loss. Senior centers may well be the "last bastion" of support and assistance to help mitigate these devastating effects. This can only occur if staff and volunteers are aware of actions that can be taken as "first responders" for people who are new to vision loss. In this session we seek to launch a sea change in what senior center staff can do to help turn the tide and ensure that the needs and concerns of older people with vision loss are recognized and addressed. Presenters will discuss existing model programs established to facilitate the full participation of older persons with vision loss and how to make evidence-based programs accessible and usable even through the pandemic. The intended audience for this session is senior center directors, their leadership team members and direct service staff. The goals of the session are to teach: 1) how to identify people who may be experiencing vision loss; 2) how to talk to people about their vision loss; 3) how to make needed accommodations to serve people appropriately both virtually and in person; 4) how and where to refer for eye medical and vision rehabilitation services; 5) how to obtain additional training for staff and volunteers; 6) what works and why; 7) lessons we have learned through our model programs. |
Speaker(s)
Lauren Branch, President/CEO, NewView Oklahoma
Nancy Miller, Executive Director/CEO, VISIONS/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Sylvia Stinson-Perez, Project director, Older Individuals Who are Blind, Technical Assistance Center Project Director, Vision Specialist Program, National Research & Training Center on Blindness & Low Vision, Mississippi State University
Pris Rogers, VisionAware colead, American Printing House for the Blind
The Virtual Senior Center Model
Overview
| In August 2020, the Edward A Myerberg Center, a 501c3 nonprofit, launched its innovative Virtual Senior Center, which provides controlled access to 50 weekly live programs and over 200 recorded classes. As home to the only Tech-Knowledge Hub in Maryland, our Center’s Technology Concierge helped staff, instructors, and members transition successfully to a digital lifestyle. Our Tech Support model paved the way for weekly virtual connection for over 445 older adult households globally. The Virtual Senior Center was developed with Schedules Plus software developer, Deb Nusbaum. She was inspired by our virtual programming model and understood the need for a paid platform that would sustain our programs. I worked closely with Deb to develop a user-friendly system that would also meet our needs administratively. I created a Virtual Center Training Manual for staff, designed affordable monthly subscription plans, remodeled our website, and implemented a remote call routing system. After a recent survey of our members, over 65% said they plan to maintain their Virtual Center Subscription once we resume in-person programs. This will not only create a new revenue source for our Center, but it’s a wonderful way for members to stay connected when they travel and when weather or health issues prevent them from attending in-person programs. Many long days and nights were spent in preparation and it is my hope that I can teach other Senior Center Directors and Program Directors about successfully launching a Virtual Center that provides easy access and tech support for older adults, as well as sustainability and real-time reporting for the organization. In addition, I hope to share our success with corporate subscription plans for Senior Living Communities and the numerous partnerships with local government and organizations. In closing, I welcome you to read and watch the recent news story on our Virtual Senior Center, which aired this morning: https://www.wmar2news.com/news... |
Speaker(s)
Niki Barr, Center Director, Edward A. Myerberg Center
Creative Ways to Engage People with Dementia and Their Caregivers
Overview
| Jewish Family Service of Utah has a robust set of programs for older adults. Each program feeds into the others. When Covid-19 prevented us from meeting in person in the Spring of 2020, we adapted to a virtual format. This workshop will showcase our four programs for people with dementia and their caregivers, how they work in harmony, and how we transitioned to an online-based system. Our programming includes Music and Memory, The Gleeful Choir, Caregiver Support Groups, and our newest addition, Dementia Friendly Activities, which evolved in response to a clear need during the pandemic. Each program is supported by a mental health clinician to meet any additional needs of participants. We will describe our programs, show how we are able to offer them virtually, provide guidance on initiating new programs for persons with dementia and their caregivers, and discuss how these programs add value to our organization. Our staff are prepared to facilitate other agencies as they work to expand or start new programs like these. Jewish Family Service of Utah has a long history of providing services for older adults, providing in-home geriatric care management assessments and planning. Building on our mission to support older adults as they age in place, we added the Music and Memory program to our list of services in 2014. We have provided hundreds of personalized iPods to older adults with dementia and other chronic illnesses. In 2017, we added Caregiver Support Groups for individuals caring for someone with dementia. The following year, our programming grew to include the “Gleeful Choir”, a choir for people with dementia and their care partners. Especially during the pandemic, the need for support and connection for persons with dementia and their care partners has become clear. In response, in 2020 we created our Dementia Friendly Activities program. These four programs feed into one other, and we are proud to offer these and other resources to people with dementia and their caregivers. Rosemary Quatrale has many years of personal and professional experience working with seniors and people with dementia. She will speak about the programs, and some fun and interesting ways to engage people with dementia. Emily Christensen is a Board-certified music therapist and will speak about the Gleeful Choir about how music affects the brain. Alex Mack, CSW is a clinical social worker, and will speak about how we can support older adults in sustaining wellbeing as they age. Our target audience is people who work with or care for someone with dementia. Our goal is that attendees will learn creative ways to interact with someone with dementia no matter how far along in the disease process they are. |
Speaker(s)
Rosemary Quatrale, Older Adult Care Manager, Jewish Family Service of Utah
Alex Mack, Older Adult Social Worker, Jewish Family Service
Emily Christensen, Gleeful Choir Director, Crescendo Music Therapy
Engagement Technology – Now More than Ever
Overview
| The Covid 19 crisis has brought to the forefront of senior living the importance of staying connected, and the consequences of being isolated. This webinar will show attendees how technology can help keep residents and families connected in the midst of the crisis. (and beyond). You will see a myriad of resources, many of them free, that will help you use technology to keep the connections alive and blossoming. The session is 100% designed for non-technical individuals, and you will walk away with multiple ideas and solutions for your own setting. You will walk away with a new set of resources to utilize, and stories of inspiration you can emulate. |
Speaker(s)
Jack York, President/Co-Founder, It's Never 2 Late
"Senior Center Without Walls: Going Virtual in a COVID-19 (and post-COVID-19) World"
Overview
| Social isolation, which can negatively impact one’s health, both mentally and physically, is a battle that older adults face. Living independently and away from family, many older adults do what they can to ensure that they are not socially isolated. They become volunteers, take part-time jobs, meet with friends, and join senior centers. However, these methods of preventing social isolation came to a halt when the COVID-19 pandemic began in March of 2020. Suddenly, older adults were forced to “socially isolate” and quarantine as this demographic of the population proved to be the most vulnerable against this virus. Senior centers were closed following the outbreak of the Coronavirus. Older adults were left without their nexus hubs of programs and services, such as transportation and congregate meals. Senior centers quickly pivoted delivery of vital services and started delivering meals and offering curbside pickup. Some centers continued providing transportation, albeit on a modified schedule and for essential medical appointments only, such as dialysis treatment. Senior center staff made wellness calls to their members to check in and reassure them and to offer any assistance they could via phone. Once the realization settled in that this pandemic would be here for longer than anticipated, we, at Silver Linings at Old Bridge, created a virtual community that would be accessible on Facebook. This virtual community included classes, vital information, programs, and more importantly enabled us to connect with our members daily. Following its launch on March 30th, 2020, our virtual community has grown to over 250 members, and now includes Zoom classes and webinars, community projects and much more. This presentation will provide background information on this virtual community and the “Senior Center Without Walls” concept that grew out of it. We will provide the tools used to create and sustain a virtual community. We will also provide tips and advice on how to hold successful virtual programs. We will conclude the presentation with a discussion on the necessity of virtual senior centers to prevent social isolation for homebound older adults post-pandemic. This presentation is directed at senior center staff (directors, managers, and program coordinators) but all are welcome and encouraged to attend. |
Speaker(s)
Anahita Feltz, Manager, Silver Linings at Old Bridge
The Parks and Rec Way: Best Practices to Engaging Partners, Soliciting Sponsors, and Marketing Programs
Overview
Johnson County Park and Recreation District's 50 Plus Program has been providing programs, lifelong learning, events, and travel opportunities for adults 50 and older in its community for the past 50 years. The continued department success of the programs has been achieved through partnerships, sponsorships, and consistently maintaining a high level of quality programs and customer services. This presentation will demonstrate the best practices used to have a well-rounded program that attracts a variety of ages within the demographic and interests. Best practices that will be discussed include marketing, pricing, sponsorship solicitation, and customer appreciation. We will introduce how we utilize our social media outlets, e-newsletters, print publications, website, videos, and in-person marketing tools to keep our customers informed and engaged. Next, we will discuss how our programs have been strengthened through the partnerships we have developed over the years. We will review what’s included in our partnership agreements and determine what partners make a good fit for our organization. Another important aspect of our department’s growth and survival is sponsorship solicitation. Approximately thirty percent of our staff salaries and benefits must be covered through program fee generation and sponsorships. We will present a variety of examples of our sponsorship packages and tips for how to keep your sponsors involved and coming back year after year. We will touch on some of our favorite programs, events, and customer service tips we’ve provided to spark ideas of ways they could potentially be emulated within your organization or service area. Throughout the presentation, we will touch on some of the adjustments we had to make within all these areas due to restrictions from the pandemic. Kari Baesel, Recreation Specialist for the District’s 50 Plus Program will co-present. Ms. Baesel is a Recreation Administration graduate of Emporia State University and has served in her role at the county for 15 years. She has presented on a variety of topics both locally and nationally.
Speaker(s)
Michelle Alexander, 50 Plus Department Manager, Johnson County Park & Recreation District
SNAP Enrollment Easy Peasy, Snappy Happy
Overview
| With the advent of Covid-19, Dallas County suspended all on-site program activities until community spread is contained and public safety is secure. In an effort to continue providing nutritional meals to our senior population, we transformed our transportation fleet into “meals-on-wheels” by using buses to deliver 50,000 meals and 24,000 memory game activities each month. Nutritional meals are the cornerstone of our program. Unfortunately, many of our seniors suffer from food insecurity and, therefore, are at higher risk for high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. To help address the issues related to food insecurity, Dallas County applied for funding from the National Council on Aging to assist older adults in receiving SNAP benefits. Although, many seniors throughout Dallas County are eligible to receive SNAP benefits, few are actually enrolled in the SANP program. When surveyed, seniors indicated that the money given was just not enough to cover the rising costs of food, while others felt that the application process was tedious and asked for too much information. We recognize the pain and plight of senior social isolation. In response to social isolation, we developed Virtual Senior Centers to expand community outreach and increase individual engagement. The goal of the Virtual Senior Centers are to Engage, Educate, and Enroll seniors in the SNAP program while maintaining CDC Covid-19 guidelines and protocols. The Virtual Senior Centers consist of two primary outreach components; (1) using meal delivery as a vehicle to provide seniors with available resources, and (2) creating Senior Center communities tele-phonically. Using Meal Delivery as a Resource Dallas County has 19 Center Managers responsible for delivering meals, providing wellness checks, senior resources, and social engagement. Each Center Manager conducts in-person or telephone SNAP interviews to determine an applicant’s eligibility. At the completion of the SNAP interview, the pre-application is submitted to the SNAP Specialist who contacts the senior, completes the application, and submits it for enrollment. This approach has a successful and proven track record. Using Tele-Bingo as a Resource Since, all of our Senior Centers are closed due to the pandemic, Tele-Bingo has become our most popular activity. Tele-Bingo promotes socialization, provides nutrition education, and increases SNAP Enrollment for seniors. Tele-Bingo is a two-tier outreach approach. First, seniors are provided a call-in number using a web-based telephone/video conferencing tool such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams to dial-in telephonically. Given that the vast majority of our seniors reside in Tech Deserts and lack access to web-based formats, we rely on the tele-phone format at this time. Incorporated in each Tele-Bingo session, we facilitate a 15minute “talk” about the benefits of SNAP. During the 15minute talk, we encourage seniors to join the next day’s session titled, “The Easy-Peasy Recipe.” This 20-30min session offers more information on nutrition education, SNAP benefits and how to enroll. These social activities and outreach strategies are simple to replicate, engaging for all senior populations, and intended to promote nutrition education, socialization, and health and wellness while increasing SNAP enrollment. |
Speaker(s)
Mark Edwards, Program Administrator, Dallas County Health & Human Services
Jara Fansler, SNAP Coordinator, Dallas County Health & Human Services
The Connecticut Virtual Senior Center – A Collective Success!
Overview
| Senior centers have long been recognized as important resources for older adults in our communities: providing programs, services and activities to improve wellbeing including nutrition, trusted information, referral and benefits access, healthy aging programs, fitness, community engagement and lifelong learning – all in a social setting that provides meaningful connections to thousands of people. When the pandemic hit, Senior Centers transitioned almost overnight to meet the critical needs of their communities. As they regained their equilibrium the focus expanded from basic needs to innovating ways to connect with people. Centers took high tech, low tech and no tech approaches with drive through events, parades, activity kits and, of course, virtual programs. Zoom became the new activity room, class room, fitness room. And, while there was a race to training and standing up resources, the success of those virtual programs really varied across the state depending on a Center’s capacity to implement and the interest and capacity among participants. What we needed was a program that could be implemented broadly but that would still maintain that important connection to a local Center. Connecticut achieved this through a unique partnership between the CT Healthy Living Collective (CHLC) and the Connecticut Association of Senior Center Personnel (CASCP). Beginning with a three-week pilot “Tri Town Exploration Series” we established a framework for statewide programming that we call the CT Virtual Senior Center. It features programs that are planned by a committee of senior center professionals with the CHLC providing backbone support including hosting zoom programs, managing central registration and communications and serving as a fiduciary. Programs are promoted locally by participating centers and each program provides an opportunity for a local connection through distribution of materials or break out groups. The virtual senior center held a ground-breaking holiday event – the CT Senior Center Holiday Bash - with more than 1000 participants from 70 Connecticut Senior Centers and featuring guest and performers representing the rich diversity of Connecticut’s people. In this session we will cover the evolution of the program, the process and logistics, goals, roles and responsibilities, successes and lessons learned including technical challenges for participants and organizers. And we will share our vision for the future of this virtual approach. |
Speaker(s)
Dianne Stone, Director, Newington Senior and Disabled Center
Sherry Ostrout, Connecticut Community Care,
Dagmar Ridgway, Director, Canoe Brook Center
Karen Green, Administrative Coordinator, CT Community Care
What's Trending in Senior Center Design?
Overview
| An architect with deep roots in the senior center industry will present emerging trends in facility planning and design, and discuss significant (facility-related) take-aways from the pandemic. This heavily illustrated hour will be divided into four distinct segments focused on unmistakable trends noted before, during, and as senior centers begin to emerge from a time of unprecedented disruption and reflection. 1. “We want one of those!” Coming soon to a center near you. • From coast to coast and small centers to large, these amenities have found their way onto many centers’ lists of “must haves.” Each amenity will be presented with descriptive detail of key design considerations. 2. Your new center used to be a what? Adaptive reuse issues and opportunities • Re-purposing existing buildings for use as senior centers is an unmistakable trend nationwide. This segment will incorporate several brief case studies and take a quick look at the make-over process and pitfalls to avoid. 3. What has the Covid-19 pandemic taught us about our facilities? • As senior centers resume pre-Covid operations they do so with a far greater awareness of the role the constructed environment plays in keeping us safe and healthy. Discover basic protections that can be incorporated in the design or renovation of your building. 4. Taking time to look before you leap • There is a notable increase in the time and dollars being invested in pre-design planning efforts for senior center design and renovations. Key practices in successful facility planning efforts will be explored. This session is intended for anyone involved in the planning or operation of a senior center, with an emphasis on providing timely topical information and insights that can be directly applied in their own facility planning efforts. The trends to be presented are gleaned from the presenter’s experiences with dozens of senior centers from coast to coast over the last five years. |
Speaker(s)
Douglas Gallow, Senior Center and Universal Design Specialist, Lifespan Design Studio LLC
Grand Times: Supporting Grandparents Caring for Grandkids Under 5
Overview
| ZERO TO THREE is an expert in child development, bringing 40 years of child development research to the table, and grandparents are the experts in caring for their children and grandchildren. We are eager to learn from, and share with, grandparents who are the cornerstone of early child care in communities across the country. To that end, we’ve created series of seven 90-minute workshops for grandparents who care for grandchildren under five. What’s included: Detailed lesson plans with online and in-person options, grandparent handouts and PPTs in Spanish and English. Workshops focus on early learning, tantrums, mealtimes, safe sleep, screen use, and sharing child care with your adult child, and include all the latest recommendations: • SLEEP: Guidance on safe sleep has changed dramatically since a few decades ago, when babies slept under the covers, surrounded by stuffed animals. Today’s recommendations? Babies sleep alone, on their backs, in a crib. • MEALTIMES: We now know that insisting that toddlers clean their plates or offering dessert for eating “just a few more bites” contributes to overeating and childhood obesity. • DISCIPLINE: We know that spanking exchanges short-term compliance for long-term harm. • SCREENS: We know that attention to screens reduces opportunities for brain-building interactions between young children and their favorite grown-ups. In this presentation, we will: • Provide data on the frequency of grandparents providing care for young grandchildren • Share focus group feedback from grandparents on the pleasures and challenges of caring for grandchildren under age five • Introduce a new curriculum (7 90-minute units) designed to provide support to grandparent caregivers and offer opportunities to learn about new research in early childhood development and caregiving. |
Speaker(s)
Kathy Kinsner, Senior Manager, Parenting Resources, ZERO TO THREE
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