Take Action Against Poverty—Senior Volunteers Make the Difference!
Published on 25 November 2015
Perhaps you are interested in making a direct impact in your community, but don't know where to start. Good news—we have a great volunteering opportunity waiting for you!
Creating Age- and Disability-Friendly Communities
Published on 29 October 2015
Good news! Aging and Disability Services filed its final draft Area Plan for 2016-2019 for Seattle-King County with the State Unit on Aging, part of the DSHS Aging and Long-Term Support Administration, on Oct. 5, 2015. State approval is expected in early 2016.
Fall Lineup!
Published on 1 October 2015
What does "fall lineup" mean to you? A new TV schedule? A Seahawks tailgate party, perhaps? For Aging Network advocates, it's all that and more!
We're All Aging … And What a Wonderful Thing!
Published on 1 October 2015
Consider: In 1850 the average life expectancy was 35 years of age; in 1900 it was 47; and in 2000 it was 70 years of age. Today, two-thirds of the entire historical human population is alive. This is a huge demographic and sort of evolutionary change.
Elder DV May Involve Adult Children, Non-Family
Published on 1 October 2015
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. When people hear "domestic violence" or "DV," they almost always think of abuse and exploitation by an intimate partner. Although Aging and Disability Services certainly sees and serves individuals where this is the case, we see an overwhelming volume of abuse and exploitation against elders by other family members, "friends" and trusted others such as real estate agents, neighbors, financial planners, gardeners and housekeepers.
Until There is a Cure, Alzheimer's Disease will Touch Us All
Published on 1 October 2015
Since early 2014, an Alzheimer's Disease Working Group has examined the needs of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, services available to meet these needs, and the capacity of the state and current providers to meet these and future needs.
U.S. Access Board Member Karen Braitmayer to Speak at City Hall
Published on 1 October 2015
On Wednesday, October 7, 2015, Seattle architect and accessibility consultant Karen Braitmayer will discuss this work of the U.S. Access Board from 12 noon–1:30 p.m. in the Bertha Knight Landes Room at Seattle City Hall (600 4th Ave, between James & Cherry Streets in downtown Seattle).
Introducing Community Living Connections
Published on 27 August 2015
Good news—Community Living Connections is now available throughout King County!
NeighborTies: Strengthening Elders in Our Community
Published on 30 July 2015
The Southeast Seattle Senior Center has launched a new volunteer program called NeighborTies, which will match an elder living in Southeast Seattle with a trained volunteer who will come to their home at least twice a month.
Honoring Asian-American/Pacific Islander Health Equity Advocates
Published on 30 July 2015
With rising diversity in King County, I'd like to take this opportunity to share some insights on a group that often gets overlooked but desperately needs equitable access to services. Asian-Americans are the largest group of minorities in King County, comprising 16 percent of our population. And 40 percent of Asian-American seniors in our county live in poverty (household income less than $25,000).
Area Plan on Aging: We Want to Hear From You!
Published on 30 July 2015
The Seattle-King County Advisory Council on Aging & Disability Services (ADS) will host public hearings regarding the draft 2016–2019 Area Plan on Aging, and draft recommendations for the 2016 discretionary budget allocations.
The Final Word from Olympia?
Published on 30 June 2015
As this newsletter goes to print, we're still waiting for the final word from Olympia. There's no budget, and State-funded programs are threatened with shutdown.
The ADA at 25: Continuing to Make Your Life Better
Published on 30 June 2015
The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law on July 26, 1990 by President George H. W. Bush. It is a civil rights law.
In Her Corner
Published on 30 June 2015
At 48 years old, Tracie is younger than most people imagine when they think of someone in a long-term care facility; however, people under age 64 represent about 37 percent of those needing long-term care.
Who Do I Call?
Published on 30 June 2015
Community Living Connections (CLC) helps connect older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers to supports and services so they are able to live independently in the community.
Catherine Lester Named Seattle Human Services Department Director
Published on 1 June 2015
In February, Mayor Ed Murray nominated Catherine Lester as director of the Seattle Human Services Department. The Seattle City Council confirmed her appointment in April.
Coordinated Response Helps Prevent Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation
Published on 1 June 2015
Elder abuse is a growing problem in the United States, yet a largely hidden one.
Happy Older Americans Month!
Published on 29 April 2015
May is Older Americans Month—an annual celebration of older adults in our community and throughout the nation, and the Aging Network that serves them.
The Older Americans Act: Our Nation's Promise
Published on 29 April 2015
A message from U.S. Senator Patty Murray
Care Transitions: The Waves of Change in Health Care
Published on 29 April 2015
Register now for The Waves of Change in Health Care, the 2015 care transitions conference that continues a community conversation that began in 2012 when health care and human services professionals and others in south King County met to discuss new ways to work together to decrease avoidable hospital admissions. Hospitalizations contribute significantly to the cost of health care—costs borne by insurance companies, taxpayers (Medicaid and Medicare), patients, and families.
Action Needed, Now and for Our Future
Published on 31 March 2015
Sometime this month, we will learn whether the State Legislature has done the right thing for fragile elders and adults with disabilities who benefit from the long-term care case management services provided by Aging and Disability Services (ADS).
Who Inspires You?
Published on 31 March 2015
King County is filled with older adults whose lives inspire us about how to age with grace, enthusiasm, creativity, hope, and energy. They quietly make life better for others even as their years advance.
Let's Disrupt Aging
Published on 31 March 2015
As I begin my tenure as CEO of AARP, I challenge all of us to reimagine what it means to get older. Let's disrupt aging. Let's upend our thinking around what it means to get older.
Social Workers Drive Change, Empower People
Published on 2 March 2015
March is National Social Work Month. This year also happens to be the 60th anniversary of the National Association of Social Work.
Memorize this Number: 1-800-562-6000
Published on 28 January 2015
For more than 40 years, the Washington State Legislature has offered a simple, easy way to contact our elected officials in Olympia—the toll-free Legislative Hotline. It's an important number for Washington state aging network advocates to know.
Participate in a Research Study? It May Improve Your Own Health as Well as Others'
Published on 28 January 2015
University of Washington Professor of Nursing Cynthia Dougherty recently completed a study focused on heart disease patients who had received implanted internal defibrillators—a major surgery that requires intensive recovery and rehabilitation.
2015—A Jubilee Year!
Published on 5 January 2015
It came as no surprise when the federal Administration on Community Living designated "Get Into The Act" as the theme for Older Americans Month 2015, which we celebrate in May. The Older Americans Act was passed 50 years ago and signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 14, 1965.
Take Our Survey: Area Plan on Aging, 2016–2019
Published on 5 January 2015
Aging & Disability Services—the Area Agency on Aging for King County—is part of the Aging Network that was established in 1965 with the passage of the Older Americans Act.
Make a Difference in the Life of an Elder
Published on 2 December 2014
There are as many reasons to volunteer as there are volunteers. Anyone can volunteer, and they do—every day—in communities like ours across the country. But more than any other time of year, the holidays bring out our compassionate nature. We count our blessings and take stock of our own good fortune. We question how we can do more, not just to achieve the sense of well-being that accompanies doing something kind for others, but to truly commit to helping someone in need.
King County Veterans and Human Services Levy Makes a Difference
Published on 30 October 2014
In November 2005 and again in 2011, King County voters overwhelmingly approved a measure that established the Veterans and Human Services Levy.
Seattle Council Chamber Upgrades Mean More People Can Participate
Published on 30 October 2014
The meeting space for the Seattle City Council has recently undergone a critical acoustical upgrade, providing enhanced audio service for members of the hearing loss community. The City Hall Council Chambers—which plays host to full Council and Council committee meetings as well as civic gatherings, events, and presentations such as the State of the City and the Mayor's budget unveiling—is a location meant to serve all Seattleites, and it is a priority of our Councilmembers to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate in and hear Council proceedin
Help is Available: An Interview with Rowena Rye
Published on 30 September 2014
The Seattle Mayor's Office for Senior Citizens has roots back to 1971, when Mayor Wes Uhlman—the youngest mayor ever elected in Seattle—started a Senior Information Center. It was the third office of its kind in the United States. The name soon changed as programs and services were added. Some programs have been removed. But 43 years later, the Seattle Mayor's Office for Senior Citizens—unlike the senior citizens offices that came before it—lives on.
John Okamoto Named New Acting HSD Director
Published on 2 September 2014
In late July, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray announced John Okamoto as the new acting director of the Seattle Human Services Department (HSD). HSD funds and operates programs and services that meet the basic needs of the most vulnerable people in our community—elders, individuals with disabilities, low-income residents, children, domestic violence and sexual assault victims, and homeless people.
Maureen Linehan Appointed ADS Director
Published on 2 September 2014
On August 11, 2014, Maureen was appointed and began serving as the permanent director of Aging and Disability Services (ADS), the Area Agency on Aging for Seattle-King County.
Washington Gets High Marks for Serving Older, Disabled Residents
Published on 2 September 2014
A new report shows that Washington State's long term care system ranks 2nd in the nation, but AARP and other aging advocates caution that budget pressures threaten to turn the clock backwards on Washington's high quality and cost effective approach.
We'd Love to Hear from You
Published on 2 September 2014
Finding help when you need it can be a daunting task. Navigating the maze of community and government programs is much easier when you have a helping hand to guide you. Information & Assistance (I&A) programs provide this helping hand, making it easier for older adults and their families to access resources that meet their needs.
Revisiting King County's Senior Housing Crisis
Published on 31 July 2014
Here it is In a nutshell: More than 900 additional affordable senior housing units are needed each year until 2025.
Is There a Village on Your Horizon?
Published on 31 July 2014
Have you heard about the movement toward "virtual" retirement villages? Although typically geographic, a virtual village allows you to stay in your own home with easier access to services and supports that can help you age in place successfully.
Now More Than Ever
Published on 30 June 2014
Lord Derby (above) knew it more than 140 years ago: keep moving or grow ill. Countless research projects back up his statement. Among them, Wojtek Chodzko-Zajko and associates (Successful Aging: The Role of Physical Activity, American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine) found that regular physical activity not only positively affects overall health for older adults, it can increase life expectancy.
2014 Legislative Session Benefits Seniors
Published on 30 June 2014
The Seattle-King County Advisory Council on Aging & Disability Services is pleased to sponsor a luncheon meeting on July 11 at the Kent Senior Activity Center in which Washington State Senator Karen Keiser will discuss recent state developments related to health care.
Food for Thought
Published on 2 June 2014
This month's issue of AgeWise King County focuses on food and nutrition. But not all food equates to nutrition. As Mario Batali points out above, some food only postpones hunger. In fact, some food is so devoid of nutrients that it satisfies for only an hour and leaves the body starving for more.
Why You Should Wear Purple on June 15
Published on 2 June 2014
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15. This year's theme is "One person. Once action. One Nation. United against elder abuse."
Shout It from the Rooftops
Published on 30 April 2014
For years we've heard Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) called "your best kept secret." What's with that? AAAs have been in existence for more than 40 years. Perhaps it's time to shout it from the rooftops.
Turning the Tide on Your Attitude about Aging
Published on 31 March 2014
We hear so many disparaging remarks about growing old. I suspect each of us is guilty of making those comments at times. Let's turn the tide. Let's be kind to ourselves and each other. Let's continue to build on what we've got—extraordinary experience, wisdom, humor, and grace. When we look in the mirror, let's say, "I meant to do that!" Gray hair? I earned every one of them!
Aging Your Way Conference Will Build Community Connections
Published on 31 March 2014
One measure of aging well is being connected in your community. People who know their neighbors, are involved in community events, share their talents and accept help when they need it are less likely to be isolated, ill and lonely.
There lies the key question: How is it that some people are well-connected, thriving community members and others … not so much? How do people get connected and what do they connect to?
Advisory Council Members Make Some Noise on "Quiet" Lobby Day
Published on 27 February 2014
It's an annual tradition and a crucial opportunity: A group of Advisory Council members went down to Olympia for Senior Lobby Day on Thursday, February 20. They met with their legislators to discuss several bills and funding concerns. And they got to hear Governor Jay Inslee and others talk about the needs of Washington’s older adults, the challenges and opportunities facing the state's long-term care systems, and many serious concerns about Washington's regressive tax system.
Help Create a Hunger-Free King County
Published on 27 February 2014
Did you know that 30 percent of seniors must choose between food and medical expenses? Or that 65 percent of seniors eligible for food stamps—our best frontline defense against hunger—don't access the benefit?
12 Easy Ways to Make a Difference This Legislative Session
Published on 31 January 2014
One of the primary responsibilities of the Seattle-King County Advisory Council on Aging & Disability Services (ADS) is Advocacy. It's listed first in our bylaws—ratified by our sponsors, the City of Seattle, King County, and United Way of King County. Every Advisory Council member is involved in determining current issues affecting older adults and persons with disabilities and advocating for relevant legislation on their behalf. But we can't do it alone—we need your help.
The Golden Jubilee of the Civil Rights Act
Published on 31 January 2014
In February 2014—Black History Month—we celebrate The Golden Jubilee of the Civil Rights Act. Individuals, groups and organizations throughout the country will host a variety of activities to celebrate the continuing significance of the Act passed 50 years ago and the significant contributions African Americans have made throughout the history of the United States.
Seattle-Based NAPCA Serves AAPI Elders across the United States
Published on 31 January 2014
A national service and advocacy organization committed to the dignity, well-being and quality of life of AAPI elders as they age, NAPCA was founded in Seattle in 1979 when APA advocates saw the growing unmet needs of AAPI seniors. Today, NAPCA serves over 10,000 AAPI seniors nationally through the Seattle headquarters and program offices in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, D.C.
Storytelling Goes Digital
Published on 31 January 2014
Digital storytelling is a practice with roots in the 1970s and 80s. With the advance of digital technology—especially smart phones that snap a photo or capture action so conveniently—the opportunities for using this technique are endless. Anyone with a camera and a newer computer can share family history, personal accounts of meaningful experiences, educational information, and images and information that can change their future.
Organized for the New Year
Published on 31 December 2013
Two things always happen in January. Health club memberships jump by 30 percent, and stores sell storage containers in scores. That’s because January is a time to make plans and start projects.
Aging Issues Now at the Forefront
Published on 30 October 2013
Reach out, change the world, and spread the love! It's a tall order. But with more than 312,000 older adults in King County alone, it’s not impossible. Add in younger Baby Boomers, and we are a force to be reckoned with!
A Call for More Inclusive Outreach and Public Engagement
Published on 30 October 2013
On October 1, 2013, Governor Jay Inslee hosted an Aging Summit. About 100 people were invited to participate, including key cabinet officials, selected legislators, community leaders and issue experts from across Washington state. The purpose of the summit was to focus on preparing for the demographic "age wave" while exchanging ideas and exploring strategies state government can take to create an age-friendly environment, reduce pressure on state budgets, and jumpstart the work of the Joint Legislative Executive Committee on Aging and Disability Issues.
Why Transportation Advocacy is Important
Published on 1 October 2013
AARP Washington advocacy director Ingrid McDonald (Transportation for All—Keep Us Moving!) is clear and correct: "New investments should promote flexible transportation options that will help older people and people with disabilities stay mobile and engaged in their communities." And the priorities she outlines—public transit, special needs transportation, and complete streets—are good for people of all ages and all abilities, whether they use them or not.
Access and Advocacy are Keys to Success
Published on 1 August 2013
When the Elder Economic Security Standard Index for Washington (or "Elder Index") came out in 2010, it provided numbers to support what we had long suspected: King County residents who live on Social Security benefits alone cannot meet their basic needs and age in place with dignity.
SHIBA Helps You Find Answers to Medicare and Health Care Coverage Questions
Published on 1 August 2013
Need help finding access to Medicare plans, health insurance, health care programs, or prescription drugs? Call or meet with a Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) counselor!
Speak Up for the Needs and Rights of People with Alzheimer's
Published on 1 August 2013
Throughout August across King County, the Alzheimer's Association will hold town hall meetings to highlight—and solicit feedback on—public policy priorities. These include the National Alzheimer's Plan, an Alzheimer's Disease Plan for Washington State, and Voices for Better Health, a new initiative to improve health care for "dual eligibles"—Washington residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid.
Healthy Aging Partnership Builds Coalition for Nearly 20 Years
Published on 29 March 2013
The Healthy Aging Partnership (HAP) is an informal coalition of more than 30 nonprofit, government, and community organizations—primarily in King County, WA—created to tap into the collective strengths, skills, ideas, and resources of organizations and professionals serving older residents of the Puget Sound region.
We're All in This Together
Published on 4 March 2013
As our legislators and other elected leaders begin the process of creating an annual budget, scores of concerned citizens are ready to offer information and rationales to help guide their deliberations.
Help Make King County Hunger Free
Published on 4 March 2013
It's no surprise that during a time of high unemployment and decreasing government funding, more and more people struggle to make ends meet, but did you know that one in six King County residents will struggle to put food on the table this year?
Program to Encourage Active Rewarding Lives Helps Kent Veteran Succeed at Problem-Solving
Published on 1 November 2012
In 2007, U.S. Navy veteran Cliff Davis owned a specialty roofing business. He accidentally fell three stories from a roof and shattered both legs and both knees. He subsequently experienced additional health problems and found himself down and discouraged.
Advisory Council Reaches Out to Beacon Hill Residents, Partners with Cleveland High School and other Community Groups
Published on 1 August 2012
Early this year, the Advisory Council for Aging and Disability Services launched a pilot project on Beacon Hill to let residents know where to find information about aging and disability issues.
Fire Department Connects Residents to Health Care and Human Services
Published on 29 June 2012
Hank suffered a stroke nearly 40 years ago and has lived with side effects from that stroke ever since. He moved into an independent senior housing apartment complex in Kent, Washington. Due to balance issues and declining strength and mobility that were not being properly addressed, Hank frequently required the assistance of 911 crews.
Helping Others and Asking for Help When You Need It
Published on 29 June 2012
Everyone can do something for someone else and, in doing so, do something good for themselves.
August 2 Forum to Focus on African American Elder Issues
Published on 29 June 2012
The Mayor's Council on African American Elders (MCAAE) is committed to advocacy, education, and promotion of issues most important to African American elders.
Health Care Reform a High AAA Priority
Published on 31 May 2012
Area Agencies on Aging ("triple As," as they're sometimes called) have long contributed to health care efficiencies and effectiveness.
Transforming Lives Through the Creative Process
Published on 2 April 2012
Path with Art is a Seattle-based nonprofit dedicated to providing adults recovering from homelessness and those "on the margins" the opportunity to engage in the creative process as a unique means to improve and rebuild their lives.
Creativity & Dementia
Published on 2 April 2012
For 25 years, Suzanne Visser worked as an oncology research nurse, caring for individuals battling cancer and helping medical science find answers in the process.
Senior Lobby Day: Budget Looking Better For Now
Published on 29 February 2012
On February 23, six Aging and Disability Services (ADS) Advisory Council members travelled to Olympia to participate in the Washington Senior Citizens Foundation’s annual Senior Lobby Day.
Conference for Caregivers: Tips & Tools for Daily Caregiving
Published on 29 February 2012
Conference for Caregivers: Tips & Tools for Daily Caregiving
Mayor Seeks Candidates for African American Elders Council
Published on 29 February 2012
Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn seeks candidates to fill five positions on the Mayor's Council on African American Elders (MCAAE).
Who Do You Know Who Exemplifies Positive Aging?
Published on 29 February 2012
King County is filled with older people whose lives inspire us about how to age with grace, enthusiasm, creativity, hope, and energy.
Active, Connected and Making a Difference
Published on 2 March 2012
Have you noticed the tag line in the new AgeWise King County banner above? "Active, connected and making a difference" was selected for the Advisory Council for Aging & Disability Services’ newsletter.
Wanted: Eastside Transportation Advocates
Published on 28 December 2011
Residents of Bellevue, Issaquah, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Redmond, Sammamish, and Snoqualmie Valley—and nearby towns—are invited to change the face of transportation for older adults, persons with disabilities, and low-income residents on the Eastside.