AgingHere.com 

Sign up for the free weekly newsletter helping aging-in-place and senior care stakeholders stay in the loop. 

Ensuring Safety for Seniors: Providing security and tranquility.

In this week’s email:

• Today’s Insight from AgingHere

• Pennsylvania's Program Expansion

• CABHI Pioneers $1.9 Million in Innovative Health Solutions for Aging Canadians

• How To Choose the Best GPS Trackers for Seniors

• How increasing the number of in-law suites, granny flats, and backyard houses can assist the housing problem

• Today’s AgingHere Survey

• Making us laugh this week

• AgingHere Referral Program

• Today’s Sponsor: Mastering Medicare Podcast (MasteringMedicare.net)

Today’s Insight from AgingHere

While the landscape of aging-in-place continues to evolve, two overarching themes are emerging: policy innovations and technology advancements. The proposed expansion of Pennsylvania's Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is a noteworthy example of policy shifts that can help older residents maintain financial stability while aging in their homes. This targeted, bipartisan approach reflects a refreshing understanding of the economic challenges facing our older population and the urgent need for solutions that are both sustainable and impactful.

Similarly, we're seeing an uptick in technological advancements designed to enhance the quality of life for seniors and caregivers, as illustrated by the CABHI's commitment to fund innovative health solutions. Whether it's virtual reality interventions, dementia empathy training tools, or pressure injury prevention sensors, these innovative tools are not just addressing immediate needs, but also opening up new avenues for improving eldercare.

Overall, it is becoming increasingly clear that the future of aging-in-place will be significantly influenced by policy innovations, technological advancements, and housing flexibility. These shifts prompt us to ask ourselves: how can we, as aging-in-place professionals, leverage these advancements to create more holistic, sustainable, and effective solutions for our clients?

Pennsylvania's Program Expansion

Pennsylvania's Property Tax/Rent Rebate program, benefiting older residents, is proposed for expansion to provide more financial relief and prevent the risk of losing homes. The bipartisan proposal aims to increase income limits, raise the maximum rebate amount, and tie the income cap to the cost of living. The expansion would help more Pennsylvanians, stimulate local economies, and has already received bipartisan support. The program's implementation is straightforward and doesn't require creating new structures. Passing this expansion should be a priority for state lawmakers, demonstrating their ability to find common ground for the benefit of constituents. Read more.

CABHI Pioneers $1.9 Million in Innovative Health Solutions for Aging Canadians

The Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI) has announced over $1.9 million in funding to support 40 innovations aimed at enhancing life quality for older adults, dementia patients, and caregivers. The innovations, part of CABHI's Spark Program, include a virtual reality intervention program, a dementia empathy training toolkit, a sensor array for pressure injury prevention, and a compact cycle ergometer. The initiative represents a collaborative effort with the Government of Ontario and the Public Health Agency of Canada.  read more.

How To Choose the Best GPS Trackers for Seniors

Wandering in individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's can have severe consequences. GPS trackers can help monitor their location and ensure their safety. Costs for GPS trackers range from $30 to $400, with monthly subscription rates around $20 to $30. Some insurance plans may cover medical alert systems with GPS tracking. Consider devices like AngelSense, PocketFinder, or SecuLife for seniors. read more.

How increasing the number of in-law suites, granny flats, and backyard houses can assist the housing problem

A recent survey found that 71% of Americans are unfamiliar with accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which include backyard homes, in-law suites, and granny flats. ADUs can help alleviate the housing crisis by providing diverse living options, contributing to sustainability goals, and filling the gap for middle-income housing. California leads the way with successful ADU initiatives, while other cities are exploring their potential. Reimagining housing development and policies is crucial to address the housing crisis effectively. read more.

Making us laugh this week:

AgingHere Referral Program

Today’s Sponsor: Mastering Medicare (MasteringMedicare.net)

Listen to Mastering Medicare Podcast Episode 22: Interview with Dr. Marc Gruner from Limber about Remote Therapeutic Monitoring

AgingHere Inspirational Quotes

“I believe the second half of one’s life is meant to be better than the first half. The first half is finding out how you do it. And the second half is enjoying it.” ~Frances Lear