AARP Alaska

WASHINGTON, DC — AARP’s recent survey shows that positive emotions far outweigh negative emotions for both family caregivers and care recipients. Family caregivers report more positive emotions despite half feeling stressed or worried and care recipients report more positive emotions despite 6 out of 10 feeling less independent. The survey also found that family caregivers who felt more prepared to take on their role were more likely to report positive emotions than negative.

AARP Alaska will spend a day with municipal planners this month, sharing ideas on how to make communities across the state more age-friendly. The discussions will take place at the annual meeting of the American Planning Association’s Alaska chapter.

About 85,000 Alaskans are caring for an older parent, spouse, or other loved one, helping them to live independently. These family caregivers have a huge responsibility, and now there’s support in place that will make life a little bit easier for them.

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has designated October as Long- Term Care Planning Month in an effort to raise awareness about long- term care. Research estimates about 70 percent of people who are 65 and older are going to require long- term care in their lifetime. While it may seem overwhelming to think about this topic, especially if the need is not yet there, now is a good time to start looking at options rather than waiting.

If you live in Juneau, you are invited to a free public lecture “Finding a Better Path to the End of Life” by Dr. Jessica Nutik Zitter on Tuesday, October 3 at 6:30 p.m. Centennial Hall.

September is Emergency Preparedness Month—perfect timing for the 2017 Emergency Preparedness Expo in Mat-Su Valley. Cosponsored by AARP Alaska, the free expo is Saturday, Sept. 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Menard Sports Center, 1001 S. Clapp St., Wasilla.

Staying Sharp by AARP provides holistic approach and tools to help keep the brain active

by Susan Reinhard, Jean Accius, Lynda Flowers and Ari Houser

June 23, 2017

AARP members can hit a home run just by making reservations for AARP Day at the Ballpark on Saturday, July 1, when the Mat-Su Miners take on the Anchorage All Stars. All AARP members who register in advance can reserve up to four free seats for themselves and their family members and friends.