This Week's Updates
Alaska Department of Health sent this bulletin at 09/12/2025 11:48 AM AKDT
New ACoA October Educational Community Webinars
Celebrating Alaska's Centenarians on Centenarians Day September 22
We have had the great pleasure of speaking with more than twenty Alaskan Centenarians, Alaskans who are age 100 or older, in honor of National Centenarians Day, September 22nd. Thank you to our partners Alaska Long Term Care Ombudsman Office and Alaska Pioneer Homes for supporting this endeavor!ACoA Free Educational Webinar: Overcoming Ageism on Ageism Awareness Day October 9
Please join us for a special webinar on Ageism Awareness Day, October 9th from 12pm - 1:30pm featuring Kimberly Van Orden, Director of The HOPE Lab, Erin E. Emery-Tiburcio, Co-Director of the E4 Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Disparities in Aging and the Rush Center for Excellence in Aging, and Alex Roider, Special Projects Attorney at the Alaska State Commission for Human Rights. Learn what ageism is, how to overcome it internally and in society, and how to report age discrimination in Alaska. This is an exciting webinar you don't want to miss. Zoom link to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84388866103ACoA Free Community Webinar: Social Security 101 with Regional SSA October 28
Social Security Administration Regional Public Affairs Specialist Nathan Cole (who covers Alaska) will be joining us for an exclusive conversation on Social Security 101 with Q&A to follow. Join ACoA on October 28th from 12pm - 1:30pm to learn all things Social Security and get your questions answered. Looking for help on a particular topic of SSA? Please email us your requests so we can share with the presenter: doh.acoa.info@alaska.gov. The event flyer will be distributed in next week's e-blast.ACoA Board Meeting September 25 via Zoom
You are invited! Please mark your calendars for our quarterly board meeting via Zoom September 25th from 9am - 4pm; lunch break 12-12:30pm. This board meeting will feature educational presentations and updates from Alaskan organizations including the Alaska Training Cooperative, Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, ACLU Alaska Prison Project, the new State Falls Prevention Coalition and more. Celebrate Employ Older Adults Week with a presentation from the Mature Alaskans Seeking Skills Program (MASST). Facebook post here.ACoA Kinship Family Support Webinar with Haa Yatx’u Saani, Volunteers of America Alaska, and Generations United Postponed to this Winter
Please stay tuned as we share further details on the rescheduled Kinship Family Support Webinar. We are very excited to have such fantastic state and national partners presenting on what services are available to support relatives, like grandparents, raising children in Alaska. You can read about Alaskan kinship family support from our presenters in the Senior Voice.
Haa Yatx'u Saani Southeast Kinship Services is offering online Indigenous Parenting classes throughout October for caregivers in Southeast. These sessions are based on the NICWA Positive Indigenous Parenting Curriculum and will feature activities, discussions, and guest Knowledge Bearers. Classes will be held via Zoom on Tuesday and Thursday evenings beginning October 6th, covering topics such as traditional parenting, storytelling, cradleboard teachings, harmony in childrearing, lessons of Mother Nature, behavior management, and more. To register and learn more, email vanessa@southeastkin.org. Facebook details here.
AK Department of Health: Senior Obesity, Nutrition & Activity
The 2025 Alaska Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Obesity Facts Report highlights concerning trends for older Alaskans. About 70% of adults age 65 and older are overweight or obese, reflecting patterns seen across all age groups. Seniors, like other adults, are seeing declines in healthy weight status and low adherence to physical activity guidelines—especially strength training. Nutrition remains a challenge: only about 8% of adults statewide meet the recommended daily intake for fruits and vegetables, and food insecurity continues to affect many seniors, particularly in Alaska Native communities. These findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to support healthy aging in Alaska. Read the full report here.
Alaska Human Service Transportation Grant Intent to Apply Closes Sept 19
The SFY2027 Alaska Community Transit Human Service Transportation Grant Intent to Apply period closes September 19, 2025. All agencies must submit an Intent to Apply to be eligible for funding.
There are two forms:
- Established Applicants – for agencies that have received an ACT grant within the last 5 years.
- Prospective Applicants – for agencies that have not received ACT funding in the last 5 years.
Forms and instructions are at www.dot.alaska.gov/transit. Please submit by 4:30 p.m., September 19, 2025 to dot.alaska.transit@alaska.gov.
Questions? Call (907) 465-6961 or email dot.alaska.transit@alaska.gov.
Applications now open for the 2025 Native Movement Fund Project Awards
Two new grant opportunities are now open to support Indigenous communities in Alaska. The Alaska Native Language Open Call funds projects that expand language learning and visibility, such as culture camps, study groups, curriculum development, theater projects, translation and documentation, after-school programs, and place naming/signage.
The Resistance Open Call supports initiatives that protect and strengthen cultural lifeways, with a focus on water, land, and community well-being. Eligible projects may include environmental justice efforts, land-based learning, stewardship of cultural sites, community connectivity, and wellness through ceremony.
Consumer Financial Bureau: Helping Vets Avoid Scams Webinar Sept 16
Register here. (Note: registration is a Google Doc form.)
Smart Home Technology Solutions for Individuals with Accessibility Needs Webinar Sept 16
ACL’s Housing and Services Resource Center will host a webinar co-facilitated by the Office of Interagency Innovation and the AT Program September 16th at 9:30am AKT.
Justice in Aging: Federal Housing Updates for Aging Advocates Webinar Sept 17
This webinar, Federal Housing Updates for Aging Advocates, will provide an overview of policy threats and opportunities affecting older adults’ access to federal housing and homeless assistance programs.
Presenters will discuss: the importance of federal rental assistance for older adults; federal housing policy updates and advocacy opportunities; and how aging advocates can take part in a multi-sector campaign advancing federal housing solutions for low-income renters.
Also check out Justice in Aging's updated Issue Brief, Older Immigrants and Medicare, which discusses the Medicare policies and practices most relevant to older immigrants, including eligibility and enrollment, help paying for coverage, and post-enrollment issues. This issue brief includes numerous hypothetical examples and practice tips to help advocates assist their older immigrant clients in navigating the Medicare system and the H.R. 1 eligibility changes to Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act Marketplace premium tax credits.
Indian Health Services: Dementia Clinical Pathway Sept 19
Join IHS for a webinar on the official launch of the new IHS Dementia Care Pathway. Indian health experts will share practical tips for using this tool effectively in your clinic or program.
The new IHS Dementia Care Pathway for primary care is a step-by-step guide that helps providers recognize early signs of dementia, evaluate symptoms, and support families with informed care planning.
Whether new to memory screening or looking to strengthen your approach, this new tool offers a practical guide to diagnosis and care across every stage, launched in September to coincide with World Alzheimer's Month.
Anchorage Parkinson's Disease Support Group Updates
PWP (Anchorage Parkinson’s Support Group) meets the 3rd Saturday of every month at 3:30 pm. The next session is Sat, Sept 20th at 3:30pm via Zoom: “Getting Ready for the Changing Season – Physically & Mentally.”
The Anchorage Care Partner Support Group (including those who’ve lost someone to PD; all welcome) meets the 1st Wednesday at 2:00 pm.
Sign up for their newsletter: ANCParkinsons@gmail.com.
Alaena Bateman, OT, Coach (907) 312-5344
Mike Stubbs, Boxer (907) 310-4718
Colleen Leibert, Care Partner (907) 242-0730
John H. Hartford Foundation: Briefing of the Older Americans Act Reauthorization Sept 22
Congress is currently considering what's next for the Older Americans Act (OAA). Understanding the OAA's support of older adults, caregivers and communities is crucial. Join the Foundation for a virtual, nonpartisan briefing on Sept. 22 at 10am AKT to learn more about the OAA, including what's at stake as Congress considers its future.
Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program Grant Application Open Now
The Fiscal Years 2024–2025 Rural and Tribal Assistance (RTA) Pilot Program is offering up to $54.2 million in no-match grants to support legal, technical, and financial advisors who can help advance infrastructure projects.
Eligible sponsors may use funds for activities such as feasibility studies, project planning, revenue forecasting, preliminary engineering and design, environmental review, and cost-benefit analyses. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted or the application portal closes on October 8, 2025, at 11:59 pm ET. Learn more, view webinar materials, and apply at U.S. DOT Build America Bureau’s RTA program
2025 National Council of Dementia Minds: From Diagnosis to Care Webinar Series
The National Council of Dementia Minds invites healthcare providers and professionals to the second session in its From Diagnosis to Care webinar series. This free, interactive program will be held on Wednesday, September 18 at 11am AKT and will feature firsthand insights from people living with dementia on the importance of timely diagnosis, strategies to support individuals during the crucial first year post-diagnosis, and a live Q&A with presenters living with dementia. Join to explore empowering, person-centered approaches that foster hope and well-being. Register here.
Important Social Security Administration Changes Begin Sept 30
Official SSA statement:
Effective September 30, in accordance with Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account, federal benefit payments will primarily be issued electronically, with paper checks being phased out in most cases. To prevent any disruption in payments, we are reaching out to beneficiaries who currently receive paper checks and encouraging them to switch to electronic payment options before the deadline (see Paper Check Insert). Additionally, we are no longer offering a temporary check option when processing initial claims. Beneficiaries who request an exemption from the electronic payment requirement must file a waiver with the U.S. Treasury by calling 1-800-967-5042. SSA technicians are available to assist beneficiaries with this transition and to answer any questions.
Electronic payments offer significant advantages over paper checks, including faster access to funds, increased security, and greater convenience. Payments are deposited directly into a bank account or onto a prepaid debit card, eliminating the need to wait for mail delivery or visit a bank.
There are two easy ways to receive federal benefit payments electronically:
- Direct Deposit to a checking or savings account. Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) beneficiaries can use or sign up for a my Social Security online account to manage direct deposit information and access benefit details. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients and international beneficiaries can call 1-800-772-1213 for assistance.
- Direct Express® Card, a safe and convenient prepaid debit card option for those without a bank account. To enroll, call 1-800-333-1795 or visit www.usdirectexpress.com.
Please share this information with your clients and encourage those preparing for initial claims to set up bank accounts for direct deposit. This will ensure new beneficiaries receive their benefits securely and without interruption.
Hilarity for Charity Updates
HFC has launched new support programs tailored for professional caregivers, offering tools to grow in your work, recharge, and connect with peers. Care partners can now access a free 12-hour DEER Program training on relationship-centered dementia care, designed to strengthen communication and provide culturally responsive support. In addition, the latest “Lounge Spotlight” highlights disaster preparedness planning, giving caregivers practical strategies to protect themselves and those they care for during emergencies.
myHana: Free Lifetime Membership for Alaskans
Dear caregivers: myHana® mobile app and platform is now officially live—and available to download in iOS App Store and Google Play. This is more than an app: it’s a place built by caregivers, for caregivers. A place where real support, human connection, and practical tools finally live in one space. Join now with a free lifetime membership to myHana®, including all future updates. To activate your account, just follow this link https://community.myhana.io/join-now-beta and use the code "beta" as the password in the block that comes up, and then click the blue box that says “join the community” to setup your account.
This includes everything just launched: 1. Instant access to our AI-powered caregiving agents to guide you through complex topics like Disability Planning, Support Services, Mental Health, and more; 2. State-specific tools, resources, and myHana Communities tailored to your caregiving journey; and 3. A real sense of support—with answers, connection, and encouragement at your fingertips. And coming this fall: Care Management – a powerful new way to organize, track, and share critical caregiving information, right inside the app.
Any questions, reach out to Jill at jill@myhana.io
National Council on Aging: New Poverty Numbers Underscore Need for Broader & Stronger Support Systems
New data released by the U.S. Census Bureau show yet another annual increase in the poverty rates for older adults. "A country as rich as ours should be shocked that over 9.2 million of our fellow older Americans struggle to cover basic expenses like food and medicine. Aging with dignity continues to be out of reach for far too many Americans who worked hard and played by the rules," says NCOA President and CEO Ramsey Alwin.
Learn more and view more updates here.
September Economic Trends Magazine: Rent Up 5 Percent in Spring
The September issue of Alaska Economic Trends examines rising housing costs across the state, with rents up 5 percent in 2025 and vacancy rates remaining tight. It also explores the history and economy of Tok and Delta Junction, two Interior communities shaped by Alaska’s highway system, and provides the latest updates on wages, employment, and overall economic growth. Read the full issue at labor.alaska.gov/trends
Alliance for Health Policy: Signature Series 2025 Review
This Congressional briefing on Capitol Hill marked the close of the 2025 Signature Series on Aging in America, a yearlong journey of expert-led, nonpartisan dialogue on the present and future of aging policy. This year’s Series brought together stakeholders from across the health policy community to elevate the questions that matter most for an aging nation.
Spotlight Webinar:
Top Five Things to Know About Aging in America
Summit Keynote:
Not Your Grandparents’ Aging: A Modern Lens on Growing Older
Summit Panels:
1) Aging Today: Who Are We Creating Policy For?
2) Executive Insights: Shaping Aging Policy for Innovation and Impact
3) Autonomy and Aging Policy: Leveraging Behavioral Economics to Empower Early Decisions
4) The Future of Aging: Bright Spots in Policy and Practice
Explore the report, Read the full announcement, Watch the C-SPAN 2 coverage
Next year, the 2026 Signature Series theme is Health Care Payment: Where We Are, Where We Are Going. This year-long Series will convene diverse voices to unpack how payment systems work today, and what they could look like in the future.
Elder Justice Minnesota's Webinars & Video Library
Innovations in Caregiver Services & Supports Virtual Summit Sept 18
Join USAging for the inaugural Innovations in Caregiver Services and Supports Virtual Summit on Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 9am - 12pm. This free half-day event will open with remarks from Acting Administrator and Assistant Secretary for Aging Mary Lazare and feature leaders, innovators, and advocates sharing strategies and promising practices to strengthen caregiver supports nationwide. Registration is required, and ASL/CART will be provided.
In addition, explore USAging’s new Caregiver Services and Supports Innovations Hub, which highlights replicable programs in education, peer support, kinship care, respite care, and more. The Hub also provides eligibility information and opportunities to submit your own caregiver support program for consideration.
Voices of Alzheimer's Updates
A recent special report confirmed that mixed dementia falls under the radar. Survey participants reported knowing “nothing at all” (37%) and “not very much” (36%) about mixed dementia, as well as an even higher percentage of unfamiliarity with specific types of dementia other than Alzheimer’s. In comparison, respondents knew “nothing at all” (4%) and “not very much” (26%) about Alzheimer’s, which accounts for 60 percent to 80 percent of all cases of dementia.
It's not only the public that may be caught off guard. The mix of symptoms and similarities among different types of dementia can complicate diagnosis and treatment, experts say. It can also complicate eligibility determinations for clinical trials, according to a clinical trial research roundtable.
A decade-old study suggested that although Alzheimer’s has been considered the most common cause of dementia in older people, the prevalence of mixed pathologies “is on average at least as frequent.” Regularly cited statistics from longitudinal studies at the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center reveal that upon autopsy, more than 50 percent of participants with confirmed Alzheimer’s also show signs of other types of dementia.
Among mixed dementia, the combination of Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia is most common. With vascular dementia, impaired blood flow to the brain, caused by strokes or other conditions, results in brain damage, primarily resulting in difficulties with decision-making, organization, problem-solving, and concentration.
Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities Ends This Month
The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) will reach the end of its three-years of funding on September 29, 2025. After that date, technical assistance consultations and live training events will no longer be available.
The COE-NF training and resources will be accessible on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services website after the grant concludes. If you have any questions, please contact CMP-info@cms.hhs.gov.
Alliant Health Solutions, the COE-NF grantee, will also continue to support public access to COE-NF resources and training videos at www.nursinghomebehavioralhealth.org for at least one (1) year through September 2026.
For additional information about the grant-end, please click here or contact the COE-NF team at coeinfo@allianthealth.org.
CoGenerate: Why Generations Thrive Together
CoGenerate founder and Co-CEO Marc Freedman joins Chip Conley’s Midlife Chrysalis podcast to explore why the future must be multigenerational. From TV shows and music that highlight intergenerational themes to insights on workplaces, higher education, and faith communities, Freedman makes the case for bringing the strengths of younger and older generations together. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube to hear why neither generation should have to go it alone—and how both thrive when they connect.
Aging News
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