Jennifer Beam

Massachusetts scores in the bottom half, at number 30, of all states when it comes to the overall affordability and quality of long-term services and supports (LTSS).

by: Sondra Shapiro, Executive Editor, The Fifty Plus Advocate

Should consumers foot the bill for free lunches and other perks that drug companies give prescribers? AARP says no.

If you’ve attended an AARP Massachusetts event any time during the last few decades, you’ve seen Louise Myers. A tireless and generous community advocate, Myers serves far beyond her hometown of Chelmsford, providing valuable outreach to diverse communities throughout the Bay State. She epitomizes Ethel Percy Andrus’ modus operandi: “ to serve, not to be served”.

July 1 marks the start of Fiscal Year 2012. As lawmakers finalize the state budget, our top priority is to ensure that important programs serving frail and vulnerable Massachusetts seniors are protected.

Bay State residents age 50 plus continue to be affected by prescription drug sticker shock , with the majority reporting major problems paying for their medication, according to a new AARP survey.

Even as the economy begins to recover, Massachusetts residents age 50+ say health care and economic issues remain the largest challenges for people as they get older, according to a new AARP survey, recently released. While many aspire to take long vacations and travel (41%), as well as spend time on hobbies and interests (25%) in the future, the vast majority do not have all the resources they need today to accomplish their most important goals. At the top of their lists: staying healthy (98%), staying mentally sharp (95%), having adequate health insurance (94%), and spending time with family and friends (88%).

Massachusetts Residents Age 50+ Speak Out

Should consumers foot the bill for free lunches and other perks that drug companies give prescribers? AARP says, no.

The numbers don’t lie: seniors are the largest and most active voting demographic in the United States. These voters matched expectations for the 2010 midterm elections: those age 50+ provided nearly six of every 10 votes, and voters 65+ cast nearly a quarter of all ballots -- the highest percentage since 1994. How will that voting power extend to political power now that the election is over?