Health & Wellbeing

As COVID-19 cases increase throughout our state and nation, social distancing guidelines have caused Americans to restructure most of our daily routines. To adhere to social distancing guidelines and shelter-in-place orders, people are largely dependent on internet service through their computers, tablets, or smart phones to connect them with their work, education, and health services. Those who do not have access to adequate internet coverage or other technological resources experience the “digital divide,” which has disparate impacts for low-income and rural Americans.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is coordinating with federal, state and local partners in coronavirus response.

We’re writing with an important message to let you know that we have canceled our external events until further notice. While convening events is a core part of our mission, we have changed our approach in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Since caring for a seriously ill loved one is one of the biggest challenges we face, the North Carolina Institute of Medicine (NCIOM), in partnership with agencies and organizations that provide care and advocacy around issues of aging, palliative care, hospice care, and long-term supports and services, convened a Task Force on Serious Illness Care in 2019-20. The Task Force consisted of over 60 expert members, including health care providers, community members, advocacy representatives, and family caregivers. The Task Force on Serious Illness Care has developed a workable plan to improve the quality of living for individuals (and their caregivers) with serious illness. The final report of the Task Force will be issued this spring.

Not sure which Medicare plans and options are right for you or a loved one? AARP is here to help connect you to the resources that may make it easier for you to decide what’s right for you.

November conference to spark more progress to make communities better places for all ages

ASHEVILLE -- People concerned about the high cost of the medications their doctors prescribe joined AARP in the Mountain Region at an August public forum on lowering prescription drug costs.

New projects protect cyclists, pedestrians

Caring for a parent, spouse, or other loved one can be a 24/7 job that is emotionally, physically and financially difficult. That’s why AARP works tirelessly to support family caregivers, striving to make your big responsibilities a little bit easier.

By Jeff Mills