Message from Secretary Roques | |
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In these challenging times marked by the grief of catastrophic wildfires and aviation tragedies, compounded by confusing federal messages, I urge you to move forward with courage and imagination. Be assured that the Department of Aging remains steadfast in our commitment to the well-being of older Marylanders, their families, and caregivers.
This month we celebrate National Caregivers Day and honor the invaluable contributions of caregivers and their unwavering dedication to supporting loved ones, neighbors, and friends. I especially want to express my gratitude to the family caregiver who testified during the Legislation Session in front of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Health and Government Operations Committee in support of MDOA’s departmental bills.
The bills – Supporting Older Adults with Resources (SOAR) HB36/SB212 and Social Connections/Senior Call Check HB158/SB223 – will work to improve the lives of older people, their families, and care providers in Maryland by streamlining state-funded programs, making them more flexible and accessible to more Marylanders.
We also appreciate the various stakeholders working tirelessly with the Department to develop the Longevity Ready Maryland multisector plan designed to address the challenges and maximize the benefits of an aging society. You can stay up-to-date on our progress at LRM.maryland.gov.
I look forward to sharing more updates with you in the coming months and thank you for your continued support and dedication to making Maryland a great place to live and age. Together, we will ensure our community remains supported and strong.
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Sec. Roques with Howard County Executive Calvin Ball at the recent launch of Age-Friendly Howard County: Collaborate. During her opening remarks, Sec. Roques thanked Howard County for its commitment to the well-being of all Marylanders and for supporting our state's Longevity Ready Maryland multisector plan for aging designed to make Maryland a state where everyone can thrive. Photo Credit: Howard County Government | |
Celebrate National Caregivers Day | |
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National Caregivers Day, observed on February 21st, is dedicated to honoring family members, friends, neighbors, or professionals who care for loved ones and clients. Whether through a simple thank you, a thoughtful gift, or spreading awareness about their invaluable contributions, we invite you to take a moment to appreciate those who play a crucial role in ensuring the comfort, dignity, and safety of those they care for.
As part of the Longevity Ready Maryland initiative, MDOA's Family Caregiver Program Manager Molly Wisniewski will now chair the Maryland Commission on Caregiving, which in the past was chaired by a volunteer within the group. The Commission was established in 2001 by the Department of Human Services to provide resources, training, and a platform for caregivers to voice their concerns. It is made up of 19 commissioners from the departments of aging, human services, disabilities, and health, appointed legislative members, and at least three family caregivers with lived experience.
"I look forward to chairing this Commission and collaborating with federal, state, local, and community partners to create a robust support system for caregivers across all ages and circumstances," said Wisniewski. "We will work together to ensure caregivers have access to the tools and services they need to effectively care for their loved ones and themselves."
To learn more about the National Family Caregiver Support Program visit aging.maryland.gov. To learn more about the Maryland Commission on Caregiving, visit dhs.maryland.gov. For information and assistance on long-term resources and supports, visit Maryland Access Point at marylandaccesspoint.211md.org.
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Find Warming Centers in Maryland | |
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Maryland residents have been dealing with intense periods of extreme cold this year, with temperatures dropping as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit and even lower with wind chills. Such extreme cold can lead to severe health risks, such as frostbite, hypothermia, and in extreme cases, even death.
If you or someone you know needs a place to escape the cold, 211 Maryland Warming Centers may be available in your community. Click here to find a Warming Center near you or call 211.
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Honor the Legacy of Black Marylanders | |
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Black History Month is a time to celebrate the rich heritage, accomplishments, and contributions of African Americans throughout history.
As we commemorate this special month, MDOA will use social media to highlight the accomplishments of Black individuals who have made significant contributions in Maryland and played pivotal roles in shaping our communities. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
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Celebrate American Heart Month at Your Local Senior Center | |
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February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and promoting heart health across the United States. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in Maryland, with 3.4% of Maryland adults having experienced a heart attack at some point in their lives, according to the 2020 Maryland Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
Senior centers across Maryland are embracing American Heart Month by organizing various events and activities aimed at educating and engaging older adults about heart health, including offering health screenings and workshops, fitness classes, heart-healthy cooking demonstrations, and special events and guest speakers on various topics related to heart health. Contact your local senior center to find out what's taking place in your community. Click here for a complete list of Maryland’s 117 Senior Centers.
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Welcome Our New State Long-Term Care Ombudsman | |
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MDOA welcomes Karrie Craig as Maryland's new State Long-Term Care Ombudsman. Karrie will lead the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program housed within the Department of Aging, with local offices in all 24 jurisdictions.
Residents living in assisted living and nursing homes can contact their local Ombudsman office for free and confidential help to resolve issues, concerns, or complaints that impact quality of life.To learn more about the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, visit aging.maryland.gov.
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DME Re-Use Provides 6,500 Free Pieces of Equipment in 2024 | |
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The Maryland Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Re-Use program provided 6,500 pieces of DME – including wheelchairs, walkers, shower chairs, home hospital beds, power wheelchairs, and more – to Maryland residents of all ages, free of charge last year.
"We are incredibly proud to have provided this essential equipment for free to Marylanders last year," said Maryland DME Re-Use Director Ian Edwards. "By helping people gain access to this mobility equipment, we are increasing independence and improving quality of life for countless individuals."
Learn more about how to apply for DME or donate equipment at DME.maryland.gov.
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Congrats to Liz Woodward on Completing Leadership Program | |
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Congratulations to MDOA Assistant Secretary of Planning Liz Woodward for completing the ADvancing States 2024 Next Gen Home and Community Based Services Leaders year-long program.
Emerging leaders from 15 states were selected to explore ways to implement innovative programming to serve members of their communities and states. Liz said she will utilize what she learned and connections with other state leaders to help develop and implement the Longevity Ready Maryland multisector plan for aging. Learn more at LRM.maryland.gov.
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Alzheimer's Association Greater Maryland Chapter:
Black History Month Programs
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Among Black Americans ages 70 and older, 21.3% are living with Alzheimer's, a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. The Alzheimer's Association Greater Maryland Chapter is providing education and support for Black Americans living with dementia and their loved ones through a series of in-person and online educational programs. Click here to register.
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Maryland Living Well Center of Excellence:
Ask the Dementia Expert
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The Maryland Living Well Center of Excellence in partnership with the Johns Hopkins Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program is pleased to announce a new professional development and community education monthly Lunch and Learn program titled “Ask the Dementia Expert.” Aging services professionals, caregivers of persons with dementia, and anyone interested in matters concerning older adults are invited to attend and will have the opportunity to engage a dementia expert on issues related to cognitive health, dementia care, caregiving, local services, and support. Click here to register.
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Veterans Administration:
Caregiver Resources
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Caregivers work hard to make sure Veterans receive the care they need. VA virtual care tools can make that work easier. Whether you’re a Veteran’s family member or a professional caregiver, VA has virtual care tools to help you on your journey. Click here for four VA resources that can help as you care for the Veteran in your life—and yourself. Click here to register for Building Better Caregivers six weekly online workshops.
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Maryland Comptrollers Office:
2025 Tax Tips
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If you are 65 or older, you can take advantage of several tax benefits on your Maryland return. You are allowed a higher income level before being required to file a return, and you are entitled to an additional personal exemption of $1,000. You may also qualify for a pension exclusion that increases each year, and your Social Security and Railroad Retirement benefits are not subject to Maryland tax. Click here to learn more about some of the most commonly used credits. Additionally, the Office of Comptroller has 12 locations around the state to assist filers for free to complete their state income tax and answer questions. Click here for a list of locations.
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