As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older adults—may not receive their monthly food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This disruption affects individuals living on fixed incomes, many of whom rely on SNAP to afford groceries and maintain their health.
“I’m not going to let them win,” Joyce, from Utah, said through tears as she shared what happened to her last year. She never imagined she would fall victim to a scam, but in just a few months, she lost her entire savings of over $1 million to criminals who knew exactly how to exploit her trust and vulnerability.
Mantua, Utah — Tucked into the scenic corner of this small town, Maple Springs Park might look like your typical neighborhood green space at first glance. But take a few steps beyond the playground and pavilion, and you’ll discover a vibrant, evolving hub of recreation, nature, and community spirit.
According to a new AARP survey of voters ages 50 and older, more than four in 10 (45%) who live in rural areas say access to high-speed internet is a problem in their local community, compared to just 37% of nonrural voters. Rural home internet users are more likely than nonrural users to rely on satellite or fixed wireless, or to say that cellular service is their only method of accessing the internet. Roughly four in 10 (39%) home internet users say they have problems with their home internet at least once a month.
When the State Legislature convenes on Jan. 18, AARP Utah will be back to advocate for residents 50-plus, working to lower prescription drug costs, strengthen support for family caregivers and ensure that Utahns have access to retirement savings plans.
It is no surprise that the ‘City on the Move’ is now home to Utah’s first FitLot. The new outdoor exercise station adds to the recently opened Bickley Park at 2508 S. 500 East in South Salt Lake. The outdoor fitness station was generously donated by AARP and designed by FitLot. Fostering an active community, the grant from AARP includes three years of programming which will ensure free fitness instruction classes at the FitLot.
AARP Utah announced 4 local organizations will receive 2021 Community Challenge grants – part of the largest group of grantees to date with $3.2 million awarded among 244 organizations nationwide. Grantees will implement quick-action projects to promote livable communities by improving housing, transportation, public spaces, civic engagement, and connection with family, friends, and neighbors with an emphasis on the needs of the 50-plus. Many of this year’s awards support revitalizing communities adversely impacted by the pandemic and include a focus on diversity, inclusion, and disparities.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released its report of fraud complaints from last year, and it was historically high, due in large part to COVID and the economic downturn. Criminals thrive in times of confusion and 2020 was the perfect storm. Staying on top of COVID related scams was a never-ending game of whack-a-mole for consumers, and the problem hasn’t gone away.