AARP is working to improve the lives of all Ohioans.
— AARP Ohio aims to keep members informed about issues that affect them and their families, such as caregiving, utility costs, health care and tax reform. AARP also offers opportunities for members to take action and make their voices heard. That’s especially important in an election year when Ohio voters will choose a governor and U.S. senator. As a nonpartisan organization, AARP does not endorse candidates but does take a stand on issues. Members who want to get involved can sign …
— By Sarah Hollander Soon after Mary Relotto moved her 90-year-old mother into her Columbus home last fall, she realized she would need help. While family members can perform nursing tasks for a loved one at home, state regulations restrict the tasks that hired caregivers can provide. Home health aides can assume many tasks, but nurses must perform others, including the administration of medications. Relotto, a 52-year-old business consultant, said she wanted more flexible options. “If I’m the responsible party, then …
— BJ Blanchard was selected by AARP, the nonprofit organization for people 50 and older, to receive the 2017 AARP Ohio Andrus Award for Community Service — the Association’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service. AARP Ohio selected Blanchard for her remarkable service which has greatly benefited the community, supported AARP’s vision and mission, and inspired other volunteers. She has been volunteering as an Ombudsman Associate at Long Term Care Ombudsman (LTCO) for over 25 years. LTCO …
— AARP helps people turn their goals and dreams into Real Possibilities, strengthens communities, and fights for the issues that matter most to families. If you’re interested in having fun and making an impact with new friends, then volunteering with AARP might be the answer. AARP Sip, Sample and Serve Thursday, October 26, 2017 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm Presidential Banquet Center 4548 Presidential Way Kettering, OH 45429 You and your guest are invited to join AARP Ohio at the Presidential …
— By Sarah Hollander An older woman withdraws $300 a month for years from her local bank. Suddenly, she’s withdrawing large amounts at atypical times. She could be paying for a new water heater or a grandson’s tuition. She might also be in the grip of a scammer draining her savings. This is the kind of scenario state Rep. Wes Retherford (R-Hamilton) had in mind when he sponsored a bill requiring financial professionals to report potential elder fraud. The legislation, backed …
— AARP Ohio Applauds House Decision to End First Energy Nuclear Hearings The Ohio House Public Utilities Committee suspended further hearings for a proposed bill which would have allowed First Energy and other utility companies to charge customers a special subsidy designed to offset costs associated with upgrading their outdated nuclear plants. “On behalf of the 1.5 million AARP members across Ohio, and their families I want to extend my thanks to the Ohio House committee and members for recognizing …
— AARP has a long history of fighting for affordable health care and against attempts to cut Medicare. That’s why we’re worried about what’s happening in Washington D.C. Medicare is the bedrock of health security for all Americans as they age. It helps keep older people out of poverty and enables them to live with independence and dignity. In Ohio, we know what a vital program Medicare is. Currently, more than 2 million people in Ohio are on Medicare, and another …
— Northeast Ohio resident Semanthie Brooks, ACSW, LISW, has recently been appointed to the AARP Ohio Executive Council. Executive Council members are appointed volunteers, who work with the Ohio office and other volunteers to provide ongoing strategic direction for state activities in support of AARP priority issues framed by the AARP National Board of Directors. Brooks, is a community volunteer and retiree of the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging in Cleveland. During her tenure she held a variety of leadership …
— As the 132nd General Session for Ohio convened, Speaker of the House Cliff Rosenberger (R-Clarksville) announced the formation of a new standing committee on Aging & Long-Term Care to focus on the strategies and solutions that can support Ohioans and their families as they age. State Director of AARP Ohio Barbara A. Sykes said, “The aging of our population is a demographic wave that will reshape every community in this state, our nation – and most of the world. We …
— By Sarah Hollander Four years ago, Cindy Byington converted her Columbus dining room into a bedroom so her mother, Josephine, 91, could move in. Her mom is still pretty self-sufficient, but she needs a special diet, higher than normal heat, rides to appointments and other daily care. “I love having my mom with me,” said Byington, a senior ad agency account manager. “But practically speaking, whether it’s a child or a parent, caring for someone just costs more.” She welcomes …