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Minutes MID EAST COMMISSION AREA AGENCY ON AGING REGIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (RAC) MEETING HOLIDAY INN COBB’S RESTAURANT, WILLIAMSTON, NCTHURSDAY, September 21, 2006
WELCOME Martha Davis, chair, determined a quorum and called the meeting to order and welcomed all in attendance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes of the May 25, 2006 meeting were approved upon motion by Eloise Mateen and seconded by William Haggerty.
INTRODUCTIONS Guest, Virginia Davis
RAC Accomplishments Accomplishment will be presented to the Boards next meeting for their next meeting.
OLD BUSINESS Cynthia Davis spoke about the Congressional Appreciation Day and informed us to which Representative came, Ms. Davis stated that Frankie Moye from Congressman Jones and Janet Bradbury, Representative from Senator Elizabeth Dole office were present for the Congressional Appreciation Day event. Pictures were shown to illustrate the event. According to Ms. Davis all counties were well represented by the agencies.
NEW BUSINESS Calendar of Events Cynthia Davis highlighted the upcoming Calendar of Events and also the importance of the waiting list from service providers. Eloise Mateen asked a question regarding zero clients on the waiting list when it is apparent that people are waiting for service. Ms. Davis explained that when the information is not keyed in the computer system then it will not generate accurate information. This information is important to show the actual needs of seniors. According to Patricia Cherry, Bertie Department of Social Service does not have the ARMS program to enter the information and Interim Health Care had been entering the information for them, however they are in the process of getting the ARMS program installed. Annual Youth Award Wanda Moore talked about the Youth Award, this year only one candidate was submitted, the Pitt County Council on Aging nominated Josh MaClaga, a former student of J.H. Rose High School in Greenville, NC. Last summer, Josh volunteered to do meals-on-wheels at Pitt County Council on Aging servicing three routes per week during the summer. He also introduced several classmates to the Program to use as substitute volunteers when he had other commitments and to begin college. His nomination was presented to the RAC committee and the nomination was unanimously approved. POMP7 Liz Rodgers talked about POMP7, which is a performance outcome measurement project. Region Q had been selected as one of the regions to work on planning projects, three of the counties participated in the POMP7; they are Beaufort, Hertford, and Martin County. Martin County had selected “Evidence Based Exercise Program Utilizing Exercise Machines”, Beaufort County wanted to measure “In-Home Aide Services” and Hertford County selected “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren.” Beaufort County had started the pre-test to two participants and Martin County will start the initial survey in October. Hertford County had identified the Grandparents in the county and had been conducting meetings with them. Reports had been submitted to the Division of Aging Adult Services.
COUNTY REPORTS - All counties continue with Medicare Part D outreach – information, subsidy applications and sign-ups.
Beaufort County Dept. of Social Services – Joann Windley No Representation
Grace Martin Harwell Senior Center – Vicki Paul GMHSC was presented by Vicki Paul in the absence of Carolyne Everett. -Carolyne Everett attended the Ann Johnson Institute in Wilmington this month for the Senior Center Certification that is a requirement for certification. The Senior Dance was well attended by 145 seniors. Fifty three (53) seniors attended the Cape Cod Trip. On Sept 20th a Fall Fancy Celebration was enjoyed at the Senior Center. Mayor Jennette was available for comments. Senior Games in Raleigh this month and the center will be taking seniors on the 27th, 28th, 29th and 30th. We are now registering for the following 2007 trips to Alaska Cruise in June and Niagara Falls in September. Upcoming fund raising events Yard sale is on October 7, 2006 Tickets are being sold for “50 Singing Southern Gentleman” scheduled on November 28th Quilt Raffle in December
Belhaven Senior Center-Vicki Paul The Belhaven Senior Center had a good summer with the help of volunteers; they were able to continue Tuesday and Thursday exercise program. Have continued to work on the Low Income Subsidy (LIS) program for Medicare Part “D” On August 31 and September 1, Ernesto blew through Belhaven and left 8 inches of water in the Senior Center. We were able to have classes and Home Delivered meals by using St. James Episcopal Church Parish Hall, The Town Council Chamber, Belhaven Public Library, and the Belhaven Missionary Baptist Church. The center was reopened on limited bases September 13, 14, and 15th and 18th full time. There is still work to complete, but the common areas are clean and safe. Activities: Monthly free blood pressure checks began in August Knitting classes on Sept 15th PSLS was in the Center In October, we will have 3 Flu Clinics: October 6/13/20th on Friday from 9:00 am -12:00 noon November 3rd and 10th on Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. October 18th the center will begin a 4 week watercolor class. The project is a holiday card. If all goes well, we hope to print some of the cards for a fund raiser.
Yard sale for the center was scheduled for Oct 7th but due to the storm the event was rescheduled for Nov 11th
Bertie County Council on Aging & Senior Center-Venita Thompson -State Fair will be held on October 17, 2006 -Flu Shots will be held on November 3, 2006 from 9:00 am – 12:00 noon -SHIIP’s Birthday was celebrated on September 19, 2006 -Hallelujah Acres presents “How to Eliminate Sickness” Seminar on Oct. 28, 2006 at 10:00 am at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church, Windsor, NC. For more information contact Edna Brown at 252-794-4694. -Kickoff for new satellite site in Lewiston, NC from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, guest will be Rita Roy from Pitt County Schools and Recreation
Choanoke Area Development Association (CADA)-Diane Hoggard -Home repairs are available to applicants; they need to meet income criteria. A representative will visit the home and make an assessment to determine the type of repair that need to be done. Free vitamins are available from CADA while the supplies last. . Hertford County Office of Aging – Linda Blackburn Working on Senior Center Certification of Excellence to complete, application is very extensive and takes a lot of time to complete. Volunteers open the center at 7:00 am for seniors to be able to utilize the exercise room. Continued involvement in POMP, focus is Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG). Seniors from the county had brought in seniors to meeting. Identified about 20 Grandparents raising grandchildren and will be holding a monthly GRG Dinner meeting with speaker planning for a Senior Ball coming up in late October – expecting at least 100 dancing seniors. The theme is Western Night – will be square dancing event. Trips planned for State Fair and 10 dedicated older adults with Senior Clubs will be going with me to Fayetteville in November for the NCASCC State Conference – they will be taking their scrapbooks for the event. HCOA recently held a SHIIP Volunteer Appreciation Party – well attended and enjoyed. Annual Flu shots at all nutrition sites in Hertford County on specified dates in November.
Hertford Co. DSS-Glenda Simmons -DSS has been assisting with home cooling (CAP) and are hoping to get more money in the budget. Guidelines for eligibility have changed and DSS is working closely with the hospital and hospice.
Legal Aid of N.C. (Ahoskie) - Brenda A. Robinson -Will be working in conjunction with the senior centers to address legal issues, Lynda Taylor will be available to provide legal assistance. They will also be working closely with the Senior Centers to coordinate an Elder Law Clinic (pro bono attorneys) on a regular basis.
Martin County Department of Aging (DOA) – Marsha Anderson Care System – approximately 31 are on line and more to install each week Caregiver Luncheon 8/31 at Deadwood and 69 attendees- professionals and caregivers, Family Caregiver Support Program/MECAAA funded the event. Eastern Alzheimer’s conference is scheduled for 9/28/2006 to be held at the Bob Martin Martin Department of Aging will be providing the lunch. Stampede – partnering with Embarq to have a booth – hamburger, sausage dogs, popcorn, etc. 9/29, 9/30 Begin MXS Program October 1 (POMP7) exercise – thirty (30) interested in taking part of the performance outcome measurement. SHIIP 20th year celebration Monday 9/18 Diana Weber – 4 Commissioners, Co Mgr., & County Board Secretary – approximately 30 attendees – Pharmacist, volunteers, prospective volunteers, etc. Dances continue to grow Early flu shots – Oct. 5th 9:30 – 1:00 pm with Maxim Healthcare. Nags Head trip for participants – lunch at Dunes 10/16
Martin Co. DSS- Kristin Lee Continue to assist people with energy light bills. Talked about Preparedness Disaster plan. There are 183 people on CAP waiting list. The number one need in Martin County is a Day Center. -Continuing to work on special needs shelter.
Pitt County Council on Aging (COA) – Christal Curran -The AARP Driver Safety Program will be held in Pitt County on Thursday, October 5, 2006 and Friday, October 6, 2006. This two-day refresher classroom course is free and is designed for motorists ages 50 and older. -The Pitt County Memory Walk will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2006 at the Greenville Town Commons. This is a fundraiser for the Eastern NC Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. -Pitt County Council on Aging collaborated with the NC Prevent Blindness campaign to offer free vision screenings to seniors during the month of August. -Pitt County Council on Aging is collaborating with Kroger pharmacy to offer flu shots at all senior centers in Pitt County. The Greenville Senior Center will host the flu shot clinic on October 27th from 9am to 2pm. -The Pitt County Council on Aging received a $50,000 grant from the Pitt Memorial Hospital Foundation to offer the SPICE (Senior, Safety, Prevention, Intervention and Community Education) program. The goal of the SPICE program is to address safety and injury prevention among at-risk seniors. The program pays for an in-home assessment by an Occupational Therapist, equipment and modifications when no other payer source is available. This program will also build a limited number of ramps. -The Pitt County Council on Aging received a $40,000 grant from the NC Health and Wellness Trust Fund to administer the Medication Assistance Program. This program helps to provide access to free or low-cost medications for seniors and disabled individuals who are having difficulty obtaining their medications. -The Pitt County Council on Aging is working with area churches to provide yard work and minor home repairs for seniors in need. -The Pitt County Council on Aging is working with the SHIIP program to identify people who may be eligible for the low-income subsidy, but have not yet applied. If eligible, this benefit will save the beneficiaries money on their Medicare Part D plan and their prescriptions. -The Pitt County Council on Aging held a luncheon for SHIIP volunteers on Tuesday, September 19, 2006 in honor of SHIIP’s 20th Anniversary. Volunteers as well as key partner agencies attended the event. The Pitt County Council on Aging coordinates the SHIIP program for Pitt County and we are happy to report that the SHIIP program in Pitt County was awarded the “Statewide County of the Year.”
Creative Living Center-Lindsey Brown Creative Living Center was opened on Saturday August 26, 2006 for “Caregiver Day Out and six clients participated. They are also thinking of holding another day in December to help caregiver during the holidays. Pitt Co. Schools & Recreation – Alice Keene -Senior Games participants are currently involved in State Finals Competition. There are 166 participants in State Finals which makes us the 2nd largest Delegation in the State..only behind the Raleigh-Wake County Senior Games! Three (3) softball teams to compete in the Softball Tournament last week: 1. Pitt County Ole Rascals (women’s 65+) won the silver medal. 2. The Pitt County Lil Rascals (women’s 55+) won the bronze medal. 3. The Pitt County Use to B’s (men’s 55+) won the silver medal. The gold medal and silver medal teams did qualify for National Games -Everyone was given a special invitation to attend the Opening Ceremonies at State Finals on Thursday, September 28, at 6:30pm at the SAS Soccer Complex Stadium in Cary. They were also invited to come early and support our participants in the Fun Walk at 4:30pm and see the Cheerleader Showcase which will begin at 5:00 pm. The SilverArts Follies will be held at the McKimmon Center on Friday night with our very own Carolyne Everett participating, with the SilverArts Showcase on Saturday. -The State Finals 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament will be held in Greenville on Oct. 27-29. Sixty-two teams from across the state are qualified to compete in the Tournament. Our Greenville-Pitt county Senior Games will have 9 teams competing…3 women’s and 6 men’s teams. Everyone was encouraged to come out and support our teams as well as welcome others from across the state to Eastern North Carolina. -Our Mid-East Area is doing a tremendous job with Senior Games. All of our counties are now participating and trying to get more seniors involved. -Our Eat Smart Move More Challenge is going good, and all our counties are involved. Several areas from across the state are watching what we are doing in that we have included both physical activity and healthy eating as well as taken on the challenge of trying to keep people involved over a year’s period of time. We are very proud of our region!!! Pitt Co. Dept of Social Service – Sharon Hicks Sharon Hicks is the new Pitt County DSS representative replacing Bryan Averett -CAP waiting list 268, In-Home Aid 103, Respite 10. In addition there are three new slots for Special Assistance In-Home Aid.
Area Agency on Aging Ombudsman Program - Alison Phlegar The Ombudsman program continues to work with residents in long-term care facilities for residents rights, and with the Community Advisory Committees (CAC)--training, one-on-one visits, building committees, and recruiting volunteers. New CAC’s members - Initial training for new CAC members held on August 22 and the next training will be November 28 at MECAAA. - All committees are meeting on a bi-monthly schedule and this routine is helping with consistency and commitment. - Martin Co. CAC has invited Sallie Williamson, FCSP to speak to the committee regarding a Caregiver’s Support Group for Martin County. - Pitt County Nursing Home Committee desperately needs members; please submit names of possible candidates if you are aware of any. - Bertie County Joint CAC is completing their training and will begin visits with 4 members. Still some vacancies for this committee. Hertford County will be sponsoring a Scam Jam. On December 8
Family Caregiver Support Program – Wanda Moore Family Caregiver Support Program was presented by Wanda Moore -Alzheimer’s Conference is scheduled for September 28, 2006 at Senator Bob Martin Agricultural Center in Williamston, NC. -Candlelight Reflection is a Statewide Event to honor all the lives affected by Alzheimer’s disease and Related Disorders and All Family Caregivers; this is scheduled for November 1, 2006.
Wanda Moore, Aging Specialist / PAC -Youth Award selection was presented for the year, nominee is Josh MaClaga. - Continue to help with Medicare Part D Outreach--assistance, low-income subsidy and plan sign-ups in coordination with the Housing Authority - Provide Local Outreach Coordinator Reports for the Office of Rural Health. -Working with Hertford County in regards to their “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren” program. Liz Rodgers- Aging Specialist -Continue to help with Medicare Part D outreach – assistance, low-income subsidy and plan sign-ups. -Continue to provide technical assistance to providers in reference to Senior Center of Excellence and Performance Outcome Measurement Planning POMP7. -HUD monitoring review on Sept 19, 2006 and no exceptions were noted. -Continue to update MARP 5.0 software, new version. -I&A is a new project; where MECAAA will be a hub and act as an administrator, agencies and providers will be core. This I&A would be helpful in providing updated information to the central site which will house all the information. Heath Roberson- Special Projects ConsultantGMHSC Reverse mortgage presentation to 25 seniors, representatives from Social Security Office, Mayor Judy Jeanette informed the seniors of upcoming events and listened to comments and concerns from seniors. Senior Friendly Initiative is going great.
Cynthia Davis – AAA Director - at cdavis@mideastcom.org for more information. -Remember to advocate when you have the opportunity to do so. -Each provider review the Monthly Expenditure Report looking over spending patterns. AAA will Need to make changes in ARMS if expenditures go over/under. To Remind: AAA needs the 2007 Funding Plans. -Update clients information in ARMS to prepare for the web-based system.
Senior Tar Heel Legislature Upcoming meeting on October 3, 2006 Introduction of new member Joe Shambley, Pitt County as an Alternate Representative.
Senior Friendly Community – Heath Roberson, Mid-East Commission AAA Heath spoke about Senior Friendly Community and what is it. Interactive tool presentation was shown Grading Scale was explained and number of votes were counted on what individuals think that their community grading. A= Excellent B = Good C= Some Concern D = Major Comments and discussion regarding questionnaires on the tool kit was discussed. Comments that the tool kit was mirrored with AARP’s tool kit. The tool can be used to compare with other counties and can be adjusted to reflect the community needs. The tool is effective in presenting to key local officials to make them aware of the importance and to be utilized to request more funding to improve the community for a more Senior Friendly Community. Presentation was very positive, comments and awareness of the need for a more Senior Friendly Community.
Senior Friendly Business - Linda Blackburn, Director Hertford County Council on Aging Linda Blackburn presented a power point presentation regarding Senior Friendly Business. They have a total of 14 businesses that have achieved the “Senior Friendly Business” sticker and certificate. The Senior Club is volunteer representatives; they are effective in utilizing the tool kit to award the sticker and certificate to the business that has earned the certificate. They have also gone to the Chamber of Commerce and other officials to make them aware of the
Jamesville senior friendly tour – Marsha Anderson Martin County Department of Aging
Jamesville was divided into four parts and a walking tour conducted by MECAAA, Martin County Department of Aging and the town of Jamesville to conduct a survey. Approximately 30 seniors participated in the event. This survey was to collect data to be used to help the town get grants to make the community a more Senior Friendly Community.
The meeting adjourned at 12:40 P.M.
MID EAST COMMISSION AREA AGENCY ON AGING REGIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (RAC) MEETING HOLIDAY INN COBB’S RESTAURANT, WILLIAMSTON, NCTHURSDAY, January 19, 2006
WELCOME Martha Davis, chair, determined a quorum and called the meeting to order and welcomed all in attendance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes of the November 17, 2005 meeting were approved upon motion by Marvin Baldree and seconded by Louise Furman.
Martha Davis presented a Certification of Appreciation to Marvin “Bear” Baldree for his tenure as RAC chair from January 2004-December 2005.
Introductions Guests, awaiting appointment by the chair of the Mid-East Commission Board as RAC members Bill Hazelgrove, owner of Hazelgrove Realty in Windsor, (Bertie Co.) Eloise Mateen, owner of a health agency in Aulander (Bertie Co.) Phyllis Parker, retired 2003 from Chowan Community College (Hertford Co.) Provider from Martin Co. DSS, Kristen Lee, CAP/DA Program.
Cynthia Davis gave the results of the RAC assessment that was mailed out in early January. The questionnaire was sent out to gage the progress of the Region Q AAA staff in having an effective Regional Advisory Committee. (enclosure 1) The overall evaluation was very good from the standpoint of the purpose of the RAC, the role, productivity, well-organized, and importance. Members felt that their role is very important in developing AAA Area Plans, helping track performance and outcomes tied to the Area Plan, and educating the MEC Board about the aging issues and the implications of this for local communities. Some comments included: Need to develop program measurement or tracking tools for progress, and where we are at in terms of the Home & Community Care Block Grant planning committees. Discussions on future topics include: progress of Senior Friendly Communities statewide, special presentation of STHL workings, transportation (who has, when, costs) Issues that need to be addressed include: Sprint phone book “font” issue (addressed in previous years), protecting voting rights for older adults. In the approximately 50 questionnaires sent out, about 50% responded
County reports All counties continue with Medicare Part D outreach – information, subsidy applications and sign-ups Beaufort Co. DSS – Joann Windley Feb. 21, 28 and March 7 – Dementia class at Beaufort Co. Community College – limited space A new home-delivered meal route in Bath begins in February Feb. 24 – “A Talk with Seniors” at GM Harwell Senior Center from 10:00am-12noon Bertie Co. COA – Veneta Thompson Jan 25 – “A Talk with Seniors” at Bertie Co. COA in Windsor from 10:00am-12noon Feb. 1 through April 12, 1:00 pm-5:00 pm - Tax preparation (every Wednesday) Feb 7-March 14 – (every Tuesday for six weeks) Powerful Tools for Caregivers classes Choanoke Area Development Association (CADA) – Diane Hoggard Served 150 children in Bertie Co. during the holidays Completed the “Fuel Share Program” servicing 17 families Beginning “Food Shelter Program” In February – simple tax form preparation for seniors Hertford Co. Office of Aging – Linda Blackburn January 18th – “A Talk with Seniors” outreach Continuing work on the “Wellness Project” - developed a space and purchasing equipment Beginning Feb. - Eleven senior clubs planning Winter/Spring trips Continuing Senior Friendly Project - Two more businesses were awarded SF stickers (Impact? – Hasn’t been in progress long enough to measure outcome. The initial reaction has been very favorable in the business communities and Chamber of Commerce standpoint). Cynthia Davis suggested that the RAC go through the tool at a future meeting and rate our communities. It was also suggested that we put the SFC tool on-line and have Hertford Co. (model county) report on the impact. We need to be raising awareness either by newspaper advertising or TV coverage. Martin Co. Department of Aging – Marsha Anderson Dec. – 350+ attended the annual Christmas Party with soup/sandwiches, door prizes, and entertainment Dec. – A 10-day food supply was delivered to 275+ Feb 4 – U.W. Food Bazaar at Farmers Market March 6 – “A Talk with Seniors” from 10:00am-12noon May 10 – Senior Fest – Bob Martin Agricultural Center May 19 – Volunteer Appreciation Dinner at Moratoc Park – invitation only Beginning Feb. – Tax preparation Computer classes in Williamston and Robersonville: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursdays Martin Co. DSS – Kristen Lee The current waiting list reflects 171 people awaiting services. DSS is looking to hire additional staff members to fill shortages in that Program. Pitt Co. Council on Aging (COA) – Christal Curran Mondays – enrollment for Medicare Part D Dec. – Hosted annual Christmas party Feb. 20 – Free hearing screening Beginning Feb. 15th through April 15 - free tax preparation. Appointments only (252-752-1717) Computer classes – every Wednesday and Thursday – outlying senior centers Partnering with ECU in a music research study –what effect seniors learning to play the piano has on cognition. Editing phase for a new website that will be accessible to the public Pitt Co. Schools & Recreation – Rita Roy Feb 1-2 – Sports Fest March 7 - PACE Program (people with Arthritis can exercise) a training session to show exercises, meditative techniques for folks with Arthritis and those who might get it in the future. Partnering with professors at ECU on research dealing with a senior’s fear of falling. They are trying to get a cross-section of participants (active and sedentary) to see if this has an effect on their outcome. There is a potential that this study might spill over to our four other regions looking for evidence-based evaluations. This is like the AHOY Program (Adding Health to Our Years) April 10-27 – Greenville/Pitt Co. Senior Games – local competition in athletic events and SilverArts. Area Agency on Aging Alison Phlegar, Regional Ombudsman The Ombudsman program continues working with residents in long-term care facilities for resident rights, and with the Community Advisory Committees--CAC (training, one-on-one visits, building committees, and recruiting volunteers). There is a CAC training scheduled for Jan. 24th and 31st at the Bertie Senior Center. This training is for new CAC members in Hertford and Bertie Counties. Martin County CAC has been completing training and will be ready to make resident/facility visits in February. MECAAA Ombudsman program has applied for a training grant for building an Elder Abuse Coalition in Beaufort County. There is much interest in Beaufort County re: formation of a coalition and planning will begin this spring. In Pitt Co., the Violence in Aging Council will sponsor a Senior Safety Expo in April for the senior citizens in Pitt Co.. There will be performances, videos, vendors and more for all participants. Feb. 15th In Beaufort Co., there will be a Transition Workshop for Nursing Home Administrators and Community Agencies in Pitt, Beaufort and Hyde County. The purpose of this workshop is to provide an opportunity for residents who qualify for independent living to successfully return back to independent living in the community. Liz Rodgers – Aging Specialist Medicare Part D outreach continues with “A Talk With Seniors” from 10:00am-12noon: (Hertfort Co. workshop was Jan. 16). Jan. 25 - Bertie Co. COA Feb. 24 - GM Harwell Senior Center Feb. 28 – Pitt Co. Recreation Complex Mar. 6 - Martin Co. Dept. of Aging Sign-ups and assistance applications are being processed. Phone calls and letters are continuing to go out get seniors to participate. Sixty one seniors have signed up to date. Information & Assistance – 122 agencies were updated in January Sallie Williamson, Family Caregiver Resource Specialist A six-week course “Powerful Tools for Caregiver” is being offered at the Bertie County Council on Aging and the Beaufort County Cooperative Extension Agency. This is geared toward helping caregivers with the necessary tools during stressful times. Beaufort Co. is participating in the tri-county website. The 2006 Alzheimer’s Memory Walk with be posted. Participating with Beaufort Co. DSS in Dementia classes being held at the Beaufort Co. Community College. Caregiver Support Groups are continuing to meet every fourth Monday of the month at the GM Harwell Senior Center in Beaufort Co. This is an excellent means to share experiences confidentially. In January, presented a talk to Pamlico Plantation residents in Beaufort Co. on “Resources for Family Caregivers”. The Catholic Church in Washington and Episcopal Church in Bath are starting Support Teams. They are teaming up to have another support team orientation program for interested volunteers. Wanda Moore – Medicare Part D outreach (for assistance, low-income subsidy and plan sign-ups) Wednesday and Fridays - Hertford Co. Mondays – Bertie Co. Preparing Activity Reports on Program that are due in Raleigh once a month Cynthia Davis - Director The grant money for the Health & Wellness Trust Fund expires June 2006. Wanda Moore and Brooks Smith (Pharm D) will continue working with AAA until that time when grant money expires. The HCCBG Region Q Client Waiting List reflects 717 elderly waiting for services. The handout reflects the numbers by county by service. The numbers need to be passed on the NC General Assembly so they know where our counties stand in the way of people now being served. Year-to-date expenditures in Region Q – Beaufort, Hertford, and Pitt counties on target, Bertie Co. on target except for meals. Martin Co. Dept. of Aging is over-spending in every service. Senior Tar Heal Legislature – Carolyn Fulghum The following were elected as the 2006 officers: Speaker, Rev. Lamar Moorer, Davidson Co. Deputy Speaker, Dr. Delilah Blands, Bladen Co. Speaker Pro Temp., Richard Craig Secretary, Betty Hunt, Randolph Co. March 21, 23 - next STHL meeting The delegates, alternates, and RAC members need to do a better job in voicing issues and concerns.
White House Conference on Aging– Dr. Anne Dickerson (occupational therapist, ECU). Drs. Dickerson and Leonard Trujillo was one of several delegates representing eastern NC at the 2005 Conference in December. There were around 1,200 delegates in all (including public and private agencies, Aging Network staff, elected public officials serving local, state and federal governments, delegates from the 50 states, membership organizations (AARP), community leaders, and caregivers), 27 representatives from NC, and five from eastern NC. The NC delegation met in May and September before the Conference to present issues of important to their areas (73 issues in all). Eastern NC’s main issue was transportation—as was the final top ten resolutions announced. AT the beginning of the Conference, an overview was given of what to expect. Groups from each state were formed for brainstorming ideas. Workshops were scheduled for all delegates presenting information on the top topics that delegated pick from to attend. From the discussions, workshops, and sharing recommendations, ten top resolutions were picked to be presented to the White House and Congress (enclosure 2). Behind the resolutions, there is a summary of the 73 resolutions and vote tally. Dr. Dickerson felt the absence of the President or First Lady and no discussion of the history of the Older American’s Act were the most disappointing aspects of the Conference. The NC delegation will meet in the future months to follow-up on the issues (at least not let them die in NC) that hopefully NC General Assembly will implement. Cynthia Davis encouraged all to attend the Study Commission on Aging Public Hearing in Williamston February 21st. More information to follow Research For Older Adult Driver Initiative (ROADI) – Dr. Anne Dickerson An ECU research project (headed by Drs. Dickerson and Trujillo) to develop a unique center for driving evaluation and rehabilitation in NC. This is one of the top federal priorities for ECU and designed to address the critical needs of the aging drivers in our state and nationally. Occupational therapists - health care professionals who assist individuals with skills for daily tasks, including mobility and driving will address the problem. They must report results to the NC Division of Motor Vehicles. Enclosure 3 is a copy of the Power Point presentation presented by Dr. Dickerson. Drs. Dickerson and Trujillo are looking for participants to evaluation. They will pay clients $50 to participate in the study. Contact Dr. Dickerson for referrals.
Representatives from the RAC that will participate in the POMP (Performance Outcome Measures Project) meeting in Raleigh January 26-27 include Archie Brakers, Orlando Reed, Cynthia Davis, Liz Rodgers, Joann Windley, Carolyne Everett, Vicki Paul, Linda Blackburn, and Helen Newsome. Betty Murphy, Board Member of Beaufort Co. DSS also attended.
All RAC members are encouraged to attend the NC Study Commission on Aging February 21st and speak out on aging issues.
The meeting adjourned at 12:15 PM
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