George Bridges

Cincinnati residents can get free help filing their state and federal taxes at about 20 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide sites Feb. 3 to April 15. Volunteer tax preparers are trained and IRS-certified. About 100 volunteers will staff the sites. Over 40 additional sites are available throughout Southwest Ohio.

AARP Utah is cohosting “Democracy Day” at the state Capitol complex on Jan. 28—the day after the 45-day legislative session begins. The free event features political speakers and lunch with lawmakers, giving participants a chance to learn about key issues and speak directly with their legislators.

Two-thirds of Washington women age 50 and older worry about declining physical health and 84 percent worry about staying mentally sharp, according to an AARP survey of female members in the state. In addition, roughly two-thirds are concerned about staying in their own homes and having long-term care or home health care services available as they age.

In response to the challenges Alzheimer’s disease presents for patients and their caregivers, the Blanchette Rockefeller Neurosciences Institute has published “Connect to Care.” The notebook aims to help caregivers manage medical appointments, medications, insurance billing and other details. AARP West Virginia is helping to distribute free copies.

AARP members who are NBA basketball fans can enjoy a Denver Nuggets game at half price and perform an act of community service at the same time. The Colorado state office is sponsoring AARP night at the Pepsi Center Dec. 15, when the Nuggets play the New Orleans Pelicans.

As part of the Baton Rouge Sustainable Transportation Advisory Committee, AARP Louisiana is working to transform roads in East Baton Rouge Parish into “complete streets” with sidewalks, bicycle lanes and safe crosswalks.

By Christopher J. Gearon

The D.C. Public Service Commission (PSC) is investigating the marketing practices of retail energy suppliers to ensure adequate consumer protections.

AARP Nebraska is recruiting advocacy volunteers to lobby on issues important to people age 50-plus during the legislative session that begins Jan. 8.

AARP Idaho will host a telephone town hall to help consumers protect themselves against fraud. State Attorney General Lawrence Wasden (R) will join Mark Estess, AARP state director, to explain how to recognize con artists and guard against scams.