The Aging Report

Caregiving requires a lot — a lot of heart, passion, drive, energy, strength…. As any caregiver knows, the list goes on. Yet, caregivers also need a lot — information, resources, support — and many are too much in the thick of their role to come up for air and ask for any of those things.

Today, more than 53 million adults in the U.S. are caregivers, 1 in 5 people. Nearly one-quarter of caregivers report that the role has worsened their own health, according to an AARP survey, and 61% of caregivers are balancing caregiving and their careers.

The new year is always exciting, and what better time to spotlight AgeGuide’s advocacy work and prepare for a busy year ahead!  

Older Americans Act Reauthorization  

On November 16th, President Biden signed another Continuing Resolution to keep the government funded. The bifurcated bill extends funding at current levels for some agencies and programs until January 19th, while other programs, including the social programs under the Older Americans Act (OAA), are extended until February 2nd. It’s critical that we continue to advocate for increases to the OAA appropriations in the final FY24 Budget. 

When the temperature drops, older adults run a higher risk of health problems and injuries related to the weather, including hypothermia, frostbite, and falls in ice and snow. Like most things in life, it is better to be prepared.

The Health in Aging Foundation wants to make sure older adults are ready for the cold season ahead of us. Here are a few precautions everyone should take, especially older adults, during the winter.

In this episode we continue our celebration of our 50th Anniversary theme, ‘The Great Re-Connection.’ We’re talking about helping build connections and support for a very special group of older adults – those caring for children.

A group of these dedicated kinship caregivers found a champion in Deputy majority leader, Natalie Manley, who represents District 98 in the Illinois General Assembly. Leader Manley explains how her passion for supporting older adults raising children inspired a legislative Advisory Council to help elevate the voices of these kinship families in Springfield.

We know that winter can be a time in which older people feel more isolated – lockdown or not – so be sure to look out for your elderly relatives. 

AgeSpace has pulled together a bumper list of positive and practical activities to enjoy at home over the coming winter months. Follow this link to read more on how to stay busy during the winter.

At AgeGuide, we love getting social! Stay up to date with the latest news, updates and learn more about AgeGuide and our work advocating for older adults and the services they need on our social media pages!