In an effort to address issues around internet access and the digital divide, the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) released a map of local libraries offering internet access via wi-fi signals outside of their buildings. Continue reading
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News
Brookings Analysis of Early Census Data Shows Aging Population Trends
In an analysis of census estimates released in December 2020, Brookings finds that between 2010 and 2020, the number of people over age 55 grew by 27%, which is 20 times larger than the growth rate of the collective population under 55 (1.3%). Continue reading
Webinars for Older Job Seekers Promoted by Encore Boston Network
Encore Boston Network is seeing growing interest among people over 50 in getting back into the job market or kick-starting their job searches after the 2020 downturn. According to the organization, more businesses are beginning to hire, including workers over 50. In addition, there is continued interest in self-employment and business startups — half of all new businesses are now started by people over 50. Continue reading
MassHealth Accepting Comments on Amendment to Expand Remote and Telehealth Services for Older Adults
MassHealth is working with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to amend the Frail Elder (FEW) Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver. CMS typically approves Home and Community Based Services waivers for a period of five years. Changes to an approved waiver must be submitted to CMS in the form of a Request for an Amendment. Continue reading
Age-Friendly Funding Alert: Mass Service Alliance, Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program
Massachusetts Service Alliance – Due Date: Feb. 5th
In response to the current COVID-19 pandemic crisis, The Massachusetts Service Alliance (MSA) announces the release of a second Request for Proposals for COVID-19 relief efforts. MSA seeks to award grants of up to $4,000 to support volunteer community service projects and volunteer capacity-building initiatives needed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading
Dementia-Friendly Transportation – Driver Training
The Massachusetts Councils on Aging (MCOA), MassMobility, and the Alzheimer’s Association are pleased to announce a special training session for drivers. The Dementia-Friendly Transportation Training program will offer drivers – from council on aging van drivers to regional transit drivers – all types of tools to recognize and work with people living with dementia. Continue reading
In Focus on Bicycling and Older Adults, AARP Highlights Boston Bike Lane Plan
In their latest newsletter, AARP’s Livable Communities team focuses on bicycling and older adults by promoting a free webinar and ways bike lanes improve safety for all, including those who don’t use a bike. Continue reading
Mass. Commission on Falls Prevention Issues Recommendations on Improving Integration of Falls Risk Assessment and Referral in Health Care Practices
The Massachusetts Commission on Falls Prevention, which is led by staff at the state’s Department of Public Health, released their biennial legislative report with recommendations on improving how health care providers assess and refer older adults for risk of falls. Continue reading
Interactive COVID-19 Data Dashboard Unveiled, Older Adults Reprioritized in Vaccine Plan
Based on this recommendation of the COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory group, the Baker Administration has updated prioritization so that individuals age 75+ are included in Phase 2, Group 1, along with individuals of all ages with 2+ comorbidities. Continue reading
Tufts Health Plan and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Officially Come Together
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan announced their organizations have formally combined, effective January 1, 2021, having received all regulatory approvals. Continue reading