A live and interactive discussion with one of the leading voices in elder care policy that will provide insights into the complex world of aging services during this period of policy uncertainty. Howard Gleckman, a senior fellow at the Urban Institute and author of Caring for Our Parents will provide a comprehensive analysis drawing on his expertise in tax policy, elder care, and healthcare.

• https://howardgleckman.com/
• Caring for Our Parents: Inspiring Stories of Families Seeking New Solutions to America's Most Urgent Health Crisis Hardcover – May 26, 2009 by Howard Gleckman (Author)

Summary Generated by https://notebooklm.google.com/ 

Gleckman began by addressing **Social Security**, highlighting President Trump's promise not to cut benefits directly. However, he cautioned that the administration's actions, such as limiting access through closed offices and phone line difficulties, are already impacting beneficiaries and applicants, particularly those seeking disability benefits, where waiting times are expected to exceed a year. More critically, Gleckman stressed the looming **insolvency of the Social Security trust fund within the next nine years**, which could lead to an automatic 23% cut in benefits if no action is taken. He criticized the political stalemate on this issue, noting that inaction is akin to "taking Social Security off a cliff".

Turning to **Medicare**, Gleckman noted Trump's similar pledge not to cut benefits directly. However, he anticipated potential cuts to providers, which could further strain access to care. A significant focus was placed on **Medicare Advantage (MA)**, with the administration recently announcing a substantial 5.3% increase in payments to MA plans. Gleckman pointed out the inconsistency with the stated goal of cutting government spending. He discussed the possibility of MA becoming the default Medicare option, as suggested by Project 2025. While acknowledging potential benefits of coordinated care in theory, Gleckman raised concerns about network limitations, complexity, and prior authorizations in current MA plans. He also touched upon the negotiation of drug prices initiated by the Biden administration and the uncertainty of Trump's future stance on this, while noting the current administration's decision to not cover GLP-1 drugs for weight loss under Medicare and Medicaid.

The **Older Americans Act (OAA)** and the **Administration for Community Living (ACL)** were also highlighted as being at risk. Gleckman predicted budget cuts for OAA programs like Meals on Wheels and adult day programs. More alarmingly, he discussed the announced plan to **abolish the ACL** and divide its functions among other HHS offices, along with the firing of half of its staff, including grant program administrators. This could severely disrupt the functioning of vital community-based services due to a lack of federal oversight and support. Gleckman also noted the potential impact of federal employee layoffs in the Washington D.C. area on the tax base and consequently on local senior service programs.

Gleckman concluded by emphasizing the **unpredictability of the Trump administration** due to its impulsive and chaotic management style. He urged communities to proactively work together to support older adults and their caregivers during these uncertain times. He echoed the sentiment that individual storytelling and engagement with lawmakers are crucial for conveying the real-world impact of potential policy changes. The interactive nature of the discussion allowed participants to voice their concerns and ask questions, highlighting the community's eagerness to understand and navigate the evolving landscape of aging services.

Steve Gurney from Positive Aging Community delivered an engaging live presentation for WFAHA on leveraging LinkedIn for professional networking and community building. He emphasized the importance of having a complete and professional LinkedIn profile, likening it to dressing appropriately for a networking event. Gurney shared practical tips on optimizing LinkedIn profiles, including using tools like Canva for profile images and customizing LinkedIn URLs. He highlighted the significance of engaging with content through thoughtful comments and interactions, rather than just posting. Gurney also discussed the types of content that perform well on LinkedIn, such as thought leadership posts, company culture updates, and event promotions. He encouraged attendees to be authentic and strategic in their LinkedIn activities to maximize their professional connections and opportunities.

Learn tips on how to stay safe, be brave, and fall in love again! Kathleen McGuinness, a widow who began online dating at age 69 after a long marriage, is set to share her insights in a live discussion focused on online dating for seniors. Join us for a live & interactive discussion where she shares key tips for staying safe, being courageous, and finding love again in the online dating landscape. 

Kathleen M. McGuinness KMM Consulting, Solutions for Aging in Place   Certified Dementia Practitioner, CDP, EOL, SHSS

Chat Transcript 

12:11:36     From zahida hasan : yes, I get it, sibling share in responsibility

12:13:12     From CAROL LAVRICH : can we get copies of the slides?

12:16:01     From Steve Gurney - ProAging Community : The recording will be available - she asked not to share the slides but I shared the tip sheet

12:18:29     From Tracy Lewis  to  Hosts and panelists : Is face time ok instead of zoom

12:19:56     From Linda Burhans : do you google them?

12:20:00     From Gary Timmons : Some dating apps do have an anonymous video chat function.

12:20:00     From Pat Lauria : Did you use a new email address?

12:20:35     From marcie katcher  to  Hosts and panelists : Is there a good free background check

12:20:57     From Patti Hanson : I got scammed big time with online dating.

12:21:22     From marcie katcher  to  Hosts and panelists : Can we have slides

12:22:18     From Steve Gurney - ProAging Community : Here are some of the top online dating apps tailored for people over 60:

12:22:27     From Steve Xxx  to  Hosts and panelists : Why on 3 month subscription

12:26:08     From Steve Gurney - ProAging Community : Kathleen M. McGuinness

KMM Consulting, Solutions for Aging in Place  

Certified Dementia Practitioner, CDP, EOL, SHSS

KMM Consulting 301-873-5506

Solutions for Aging in Place 

[email protected]

12:26:40     From Steve Gurney - ProAging Community : took a “dating class” and was impressed Erika Ettin (202.716.8343) a Dating Coach    

Email Ericka Ettin: [email protected]

12:26:47     From Jeanina DiVittorio : Kathleen, I admire you for sharing your personal experience about this vulnerable aspect of life.  I am happily married yet my college roommate, who is single and just turned 60, and I talk so much about this "process".  Can't wait to share this with her and with other friends and family!

12:29:25     From Pat Lauria : Can't be newly divorced!  Or separated.

12:39:36     From Steve Gurney - ProAging Community : If you want to gracefully end a conversation or interaction in online dating, you could say something like:

"I’ve enjoyed our conversation, but I’m realizing that I don’t think we’re the right match. Wishing you all the best in your search!"

This approach is polite, clear, and leaves the door open for both parties to move on without any hard feelings.

12:40:34     From zahida hasan : perfect

12:43:03     From zahida hasan : there are cultural specific sites too

12:45:56     From Steve Xxx  to  Hosts and panelists : Since there are so many scammers on the web I would never give out my last name to anyone till I’ve met them a few times.  Some people might view this as a red flag but my safety is of utmost importance.  What are you thought on this

12:46:00     From Marianne Thomas  to  Hosts and panelists : I received a text from someone who said, “Getting your number was hard to find. Do you have time for dinner”. No name and area code from someplace like Utah. I deleted it.

12:52:48     From Steve Gurney - ProAging Community : Culturally specific dating sites cater to individuals looking to connect with others who share similar cultural, ethnic, or religious backgrounds. Here’s a list of some popular cultural or niche dating sites:

Delve into the profound topic of awareness in individuals with dementia, even in the nonverbal, non-responsive, or later stages of the condition. Join us for a discussion led by the internationally renowned thought-leader and author of Journey Through the Infinite Mind. Katya De Luisa brings a compassionate perspective and deep understanding of dementia, challenging conventional views on the inner experiences of those affected.

View recording and full chat transcript with resources

We’ve all been aging since the day we were born, but is there a right time to start thinking about senior living? For Steve Gurney, it was in his early 40s. During a yearlong project, Steve moved into five different senior living communities to get the full experience. Steve will share firsthand insight and advice about what to look for when searching for a senior living community. This is the perfect time to dip your toes in the water and get to know the team at Charter Senior Living. Steve is the Founder of the Positive Aging Community and develops innovative products to help seniors make the best choices in retirement living. He is a Senior Marketing Institute award winner and the Founder and Publisher of the Positive Aging SourceBook.

For more information about Charter Senior Living Charter Senior Living currently manages over 60 senior living communities across the United States. 

Mission: To Enhance the Human Spirit. At Charter Senior Living, our mission statement and core values unite us in our purpose – and our passion. We strive to be a caring and compassionate leader within the senior living industry, but more importantly, our goal is to demonstrate that commitment to our residents … Every. Single. Day.

Visit any Charter Senior Living community on any given day … and, from the moment you step through our doors, we think you’ll experience the difference …

Questions Asked: 

Learn about the innovative Namaste Care program developed by Joyce Simard which is a loving approach to caring for people, especially those with advanced dementia. Find out how Williamsburg Landing the first community in the State of Virginia to use the Namaste Care Program is utilizing it to improve the lives of their residents and families. 

Namaste Care Resources 

Join us for a special NRSRN Lunch that will explore Frontotemporal disorders (FTD), sometimes called frontotemporal dementia.
While the most common form of dementia among all age groups is Alzheimer’s disease, Frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) is the most common for those diagnosed before age 60. It can occur as early as 21and as late as 80. FTD differs from other types of dementia in that memory loss is not a hallmark symptom. A group of related, heterogeneous disorders, initial symptoms bring progressive changes to personality, behavior, decision making, communication or movement. The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration will present the signs and symptoms of FTD, the importance of early diagnosis and person-centered care, and highlight current research opportunities and support resources for those living with FTD and their care partners.
Presented by Will Reiter, AFTD Education Program Manager and Jen Morabito, AFTD Ambassador, you’ll hear both the family experience of this challenging disease and learn how it differs from other dementias as far as symptoms, support and care.
Objectives:
Learn how Frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) differs from other types of dementia
Identify the common signs and symptoms of FTD
Learn how this younger onset dementia impacts families
Discover helpful resources provided by The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration
Presenters:
Will Reiter, MA | AFTD, Education Program Manager
Will joined AFTD in May 2021 as Education Program Manager. He works to expand AFTD's relationships with healthcare providers in order to support early FTD diagnosis and comprehensive person-centered FTD care. He has worked in the dementia field for more than 30 years. In a variety of local and regional settings, he has provided direct support and education to those living with dementia, care partners, and healthcare providers. William previously worked at the Family Caregiver Alliance in San Francisco as well as the Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Most recently, he served as the Health Systems Director for the Alzheimer’s Association, Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania region, initiating and strengthening connections to clinicians and regional health systems.
Jen Morabito | AFTD Ambassador, Maryland
Jen first learned about AFTD after her mother was diagnosed with FTD in 2014. She began hosting events for AFTD’s Food for Thought campaign, and became known for her Cindy’s Cakes fundraiser. Soon after, she became a liaison to assist other Food for Thought hosts. Jen has been in close contact with volunteers and staff at AFTD, and has found a strong sense of community and support, which she wants to share with others. As an Ambassador, Jen is looking forward to working with individuals, groups, and agencies to support AFTD’s mission of awareness, education, support, and advocacy.

The challenge our society faces is how to improve the health, well being and longevity of people who are already old. How can we harness the power unleashed by elders who choose to grow old rather than merely get old? Strength, purpose and belonging are legitimate pursuits for older people. Aging is simply the name we give to growth when we are no longer young. 

Dr. Bill Thomas is a prolific author, speaker and founder of the Eden Alternative and the Green House Project. In 2008, the Wall Street Journal named him one of the 12 most influential Americans shaping aging in the 21st century. He is currently chief independence officer of population health pioneer Lifespark. 

His most recent book is Better Together: The Awesome Power of Growing Stronger Together. The book is the last of a free four-part series dedicated to help older people and their families perfect the process of Aging Magnificently.

Produced in partnership with Reston for a Lifetime and the Positive Aging Community