An AARP Take On Today

Originally Recorded Live on August 12, 2021

The COVID-19 Delta variant is spreading quickly, causing confusion across the country. Many older adults have concerns related to their health and safety given the changing landscape and guidelines.

This live Q&A event addressed the revised CDC mask guidelines, booster shots, the vaccination status of workers and safety protocols for loved ones in care facilities. It also covered how to access housing assistance and services for those experiencing economic distress and struggling to pay rent due to the pandemic.

The Experts:

• Mark Rupp, M.D. Professor, Department of Internal Medicine Chief, Division of Infectious Diseases University of Nebraska Medical Center
• Lori SmetankaExecutive Director The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care
• Per Olstad Sr. Advisor Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Originally Recorded Live on August 12, 2021.

The COVID-19 Delta variant is spreading quickly, causing confusion across the country. Many older adults have concerns related to their health and safety given the changing landscape and guidelines.

This live Q&A event addressed the revised CDC mask guidelines, booster shots, the vaccination status of workers and safety protocols for loved ones in care facilities. It also covered how to access housing assistance and services for those experiencing economic distress and struggling to pay rent due to the pandemic.

The Experts:

• Mark Rupp, M.D. Professor, Department of Internal Medicine Chief, Division of Infectious Diseases University of Nebraska Medical Center
• Lori SmetankaExecutive Director The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care
• Per Olstad Sr. Advisor Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

President Biden issued an executive order this month designed to help hearing aids become more accessible to those who need them. Today, we speak with two women about the obstacles they faced with getting their hearing devices. Also, Andrew Scholnick, AARP's Senior Legislative Representative in Government Affairs, breaks down the president's announcement.

A new survey finds that most older Americans struggle to keep up with prescription costs. In fact, our guests say that people often have to make a choice between food and medicine. Today, we discuss the impossible situation of high prescription costs with Larry Zarzecki, a retired police officer who lives with Parkinson's disease -- and his treatment costs over $3,000 per month. And, we'll hear about potential ways to lower prescription prices with AARP's Leigh Purvis.

Recorded Live June 24, 2021

Older Americans have been hard hit by the coronavirus and LGBTQ older adults are particularly vulnerable and more likely to have adverse consequences from COVID-19. This event addresses the impact of the pandemic on older LGBTQ adults, the Equality Act and how AARP is fighting to improve the health, finances and well-being of older LGBTQ adults.

Meet the Experts:

Oni Blackstock, MD, MHS, Founder and Executive Director, Health

Justice Alphonso B. David, President, Human Rights Campaign

Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, Deputy Executive Director, National Center for Transgender Equality

Annise Parker, President & CEO, Victory Institute

Recorded Live June 24, 2021

Older Americans have been hard hit by the coronavirus and LGBTQ older adults are particularly vulnerable and more likely to have adverse consequences from COVID-19. This event addresses the impact of the pandemic on older LGBTQ adults, the Equality Act and how AARP is fighting to improve the health, finances and well-being of older LGBTQ adults.

Meet the Experts:

Oni Blackstock, MD, MHS, Founder and Executive Director, Health

Justice Alphonso B. David, President, Human Rights Campaign

Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, Deputy Executive Director, National Center for Transgender Equality

Annise Parker, President & CEO, Victory Institute

Recorded Live June 17, 2021

With mask mandates and restrictions in many states lifted, much of the country is returning to pre-COVID habits, including recreational, social, and family activities. And while more than 75% of the 65+ are fully vaccinated, many have questions around vaccine efficacy, reopening 'norms,' and how to stay safe and protected during this transition. This event addressed reopening concerns, vaccination progress and staying safe while resuming social activities.

The experts:

• Kathleen Neuzil, M.D. Director, Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health University of Maryland School of Medicine
• Kate Haw,Collections and Exhibitions Director National Gallery of Art
• Nancy LeaMond Executive Vice President, Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer AARP