George Bridges

AARP Kansas wants older residents to be able to stay in their homes and communities, to afford their utilities and to have the resources necessary for health care.

Frank Abagnale, whose experience was portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio in the movie Catch Me If You Can, will discuss ways consumers can protect themselves from identity theft and scams on Oct. 2, at Wichita State University.

A new law, which took effect July 1, aims to ease the transition from hospital to home for patients and their caregivers.

Kansans who want to participate in the primary elections this year need to register to vote by Tuesday, July 17.

As the election season heats up, AARP staff and volunteers are keeping candidates informed about issues important to Kansans 50-plus. They are urging federal candidates to protect Medicare and Social Security. And they are asking candidates for state offices to strengthen long-term care services and to keep utilities affordable.

AARP Kansas is spreading the word about a new law that aims to help family caregivers be better prepared when a loved one comes home from a hospital stay. Trained volunteers are available to give presentations about the law to community groups across the state.

When legislators return to the state Capitol in Topeka for the 2018 session, AARP Kansas staff and volunteers will be on hand to press for legislation that would help Kansans age 50-plus.

AARP Kansas is hosting a series of meetings in Wichita, with coffee and conversation from 9 to 10 a.m., followed by a presentation. Topics include caregiving, medication management, end-of-life planning, financial security and computer skills. Participants can learn about resources that help people continue to live at home as they age and make communities age-friendly.

When state lawmakers return to Topeka in January for the 2018 legislative session, AARP Kansas staff and volunteers will be on hand to advocate for issues important to Kansans 50 and older.

Kansans who receive Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, public housing or other kinds of government benefits may be eligible for the state’s Lifeline program, which makes it more affordable to have a landline telephone. Savings can be as much as $17.02 a month.