Cristina Rouvalis

This month, AARP New York is encouraging volunteers across the state to conduct walk audits in their communities. It's part of a broader effort to increase pedestrian safety and boost neighborhood walkability.

A walking program, organized by Age-Friendly Northfield, aims to support healthier living for people of all ages. It's one of many projects and activities in the state focused on making Minnesota more age-friendly.

Soaring housing costs are a growing concern for older residents of Ocean County. One solution in the works: The county—which just joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities—plans to start a home-sharing program that would help older people find a housemate to defray costs.

In 2023, Americans reported losing more than $10 billion to fraud—ranging from romance and investment schemes to gift card scams—according to Federal Trade Commission data. A new state law aims to protect older Americans from financial exploitation.

New York state is developing a Master Plan for Aging to meet the growing needs of older New Yorkers. The goal is to make policy recommendations on everything from resources for family caregivers to the availability of assistive devices such as hearing aids.

AARP volunteers are contacting Connecticut voters to help ensure they’re aware of recent changes to election laws, including moving up the presidential primary date from the last Tuesday in April to the first Tuesday. Voters can also now cast ballots early in person.

In anticipation of this winter’s heating costs, AARP Massachusetts has been encouraging people to apply for LIHEAP, a federal heating assistance program. Households may also be able to get related help with weatherization and appliance repairs.

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging and Area Agencies on Aging are developing a 10-year Master Plan for Older Adults, hoping to guide policymakers on ways to ensure older Pennsylvanians and those with disabilities get the support they need. Exorbitant rents, transportation troubles and a shortage of home care workers are among the issues the plan will address.

While some nursing homes offer quality care, others reap profit while neglecting patient needs, says Rep. Jane Garibay (D-Windsor). That will change under a new state law designed to increase transparency around nursing home ownership.

Mary Bach has spent years traveling the state to help consumers protect themselves in the marketplace. As she says: “It’s your money we’re talking about. I don’t care if it’s a couple of pennies or several dollars.”