AARP Ohio

AARP is intensifying its efforts to protect the lives of nursing home residents and staff. Recently, we have developed a five point plan to prevent further COVID-19 deaths in the nation’s nursing homes and need to communicate this plan to Congress as soon as possible before they leave on August recess. More than 56,000 people living and working in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities in the United States have died as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, and Governor DeWine informed us that Ohio is experiencing a record increase of COVID-19 cases. It is extremely important that nursing homes adjust their safety precautions accordingly with the recent spike in cases across the nation. Read on to learn about AARP’s Five Point Plan to ensure the health and wellness of residents, families and staff.

Quarantine has made it especially difficult to eat right and exercise effectively; ordering food online is safe and easy but not always nutritious, and working out at a gym may be putting one’s health at risk. While some restaurants and businesses are open, it’s important to recognize that Ohioans must continue to socially distance as much as possible for everyone’s safety. AARP Ohio has developed two virtual series to help you change up your quarantine diet and workout routine. Read on to learn about how our virtual offerings can contribute to positive lifestyle changes!

Nursing homes are beginning to resume in-person visitation as coronavirus restrictions relax across several states. Currently, indoor visitation is allowed at Ohio nursing homes and assisted-living facilities as long as they follow certain health and safety requirements. AARP Ohio wants to ensure that all precautions are being taken in response to this change. It is important to recognize that there will be new limitations on when, where, and for how long you can visit your loved one. In Ohio, visitation requirements include a two-visitor limit for a maximum of 30 minutes and safety protocols such as social distancing and wearing face masks.

This week, AARP Ohio advocacy volunteers and staff have had the chance to connect with state legislators to promote our legislative recommendations before the General Assembly disperses for summer recess at the end of the month. There are currently several bills in play that could strip rights away from nursing home residents, affect how we vote in the November elections, remove barriers to critical utilities for Ohioans living in rural communities, and stop unfair surprise medical billing.

Anxious family members have often been unable to get good information or reach a relative in an Ohio long-term care facility during a prolonged lockdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic in which in-person visits are banned.

AARP Ohio released written testimony, along with the following statement from State Director Holly Holtzen, PhD, on House Bill 606 and Senate Bill 308, companion legislation bills under consideration this week in the Ohio House of Representatives Civil Justice Committees and the Ohio Senate Judiciary Committee:

AARP founder, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, urged 50+ individuals to redefine the aging process and engage in “the great army of service.” She asserted that by volunteering in their communities, older adults can inspire changes that will collectively strengthen the voice of the aging population.

While effective changes have already been made to protect Ohioans of all ages during the COVID-19 outbreak, there are still critical gaps that need urgent attention. AARP Ohio is focused on making legislative asks that will protect older adults throughout the state. To accomplish this goal, AARP recently brought the following key issues to the attention of the General Assembly:

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Growing up in Louisiana, AARP volunteer Norman Bell was incredibly accustomed to sharing with friends and family. On a daily basis, he would watch as his neighbors exchanged items from their garden with his parents and vice versa. Norman found comfort in watching wholesome relationships develop in his neighborhood and knew that he wanted to emulate the same compassion and friendliness as he grew up. Witnessing this selflessness as a child inspired Bell to commit his life to helping others, and he has undoubtedly fulfilled that mission throughout his career and long-term involvement with AARP Ohio.