Volunteers Prepare To Work On Caregiving Issues

The 2017 legislative session has begun, and AARP Mississippi is at the State Capitol keeping an eye on things important to Mississippi’s 50-plus population.

Key issues are access to respite care, the Uniformed Power of Attorney Act and telehealth. Mississippi has a poor health record, placing at or near the bottom of state rankings on obesity, cancer, diabetes and overall health. But the state excels in telehealth, and the Center for Telehealth at the University of Mississippi Medical Center ranks among the best in the nation.

“This year, we are building relationships,” said Melinda Bertucci, Associate State Director for Advocacy. “We also are recruiting and training volunteers on telehealth and other caregiving issues.”

Volunteers from across the state will participate in Day at the Capitol on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017. They will talk with legislators about matters important to Mississippians 50 and older.

“We will continue to work with advocacy volunteers after the legislative session ends so they can build relationships with their legislators in their local districts,” Bertucci said.

Melinda Bertucci

Associate State Director for Advocacy

601-898-5418.

MBertucci@aarp.org