USAging

This National Nutrition Month, we’re shining a spotlight on USAging member, the DC Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL), and its commitment to supporting the health and well-being of older adults through nutrition programs. One standout initiative is the Kenilworth Community Dining Site, which provides older adults with nutritious meals in a welcoming environment that fosters social connection and community engagement. Through programs like this, DACL ensures that older adults have access to the healthy food they need to thrive. A special thank you to DACL for allowing us to feature their work and share photos from the Kenilworth Community Dining Site. Photo credit: DC Department of Aging and Community Living

As we count down to the 2025 Aging Policy Briefing & Capitol Hill Day, don’t miss the chance to dive into key policy issues shaping the Aging Network—including the future of caregiving policy. Join Jason Resendez, CEO of the National Alliance for Caregiving, and Kezia Scales, VP of Research & Evaluation at PHI, for "Advancing Better Caregiving Policy in 2025." This session will explore critical policy opportunities to support caregivers nationwide.

📢 NEW GRANTS ANNOUNCEMENT | The JAHF Board of Trustees has approved $2.5M in new grants to improve the lives of #OlderAdults! These new grants will: 👥 Foster social connection for older adults & caregivers through community-based programs. 🗣️ Advance age-inclusive narratives with the National Center to Reframe Aging. 🔍 Assess Medicaid & Older Americans Act policies to protect vulnerable older adults. Together, we're working toward a more #AgeFriendly society. Learn more: https://ow.ly/9ohp50VfWZ2 USAging | Gerontological Society of America (GSA) | The National Center to Reframe Aging | KFF

If you work at a State Unit on Aging, Area Agency on Aging, Title VI Native American Aging Program, or another community-based organization in the Aging Network, you likely already know that many older adults raise their grandchildren and other relatives throughout the U.S.! Census Bureau data show that 66 percent of grandparent caregivers are aged 55 and over. As part of the Aging Network, there are many ways that you can support these caregivers, and we're here to help you through individual requests and training opportunities! 🤝 Later today, at 2 PM Eastern, we're hosting a webinar on collaborations between the Aging Network and child welfare. Join us: https://lnkd.in/e4mmw8-N #KinshipCare, #Grandfamilies

Amy Gotwals, USAging’s Chief of Public Policy and External Affairs, delivered the keynote at the Ohio Association of AAAs Advocacy Conference on March 5. She provided critical updates on federal policy impacting older adults, caregivers and the Aging Network. USAging remains committed to ensuring policymakers understand the needs of AAAs and the communities they serve.

Another great speaker has been added to the lineup for the Aging Policy Briefing & Capitol Hill Day! Ilene Stein, Vice President of Government Affairs at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities will break down everything you need to know about the FY 2026 budget process. Don’t miss her insights—register today: https://ow.ly/GIc050V9GP1.

Family caregivers play an essential role, but they often need breaks to maintain their well-being. This WTOP News article highlights various respite care options, from adult day services to in-home caregiving and short-term assisted living stays. USAging CEO Sandy Markwood emphasizes the importance of caregivers seeking support before reaching a point of stress and burnout. She encourages caregivers to connect with resources like AAAs for respite services, education and support groups. Markwood also underscores the positive impact respite care can have on both caregivers and their loved ones, ensuring caregivers remain refreshed and present in their care. https://ow.ly/AX5L50VeRum

Child welfare and the Aging Network are two of the most critical systems serving kinship/grandfamilies. They often provide complementary, yet uncoordinated services, that could be leveraged to fill gaps and better serve the families. Join us on March 18th at 2 PM Eastern to hear directly from two leaders at Area Agencies on Aging in Michigan and Pennsylvania who successfully collaborate with their community’s child welfare system. Log off with ideas of how you can develop similar partnerships in your community. Register here: https://lnkd.in/e4mmw8-N #KinshipCare, #Grandfamilies

Looking for innovative ideas for your agency? The 2024 Aging Innovations Awards Video Series offers six videos showcasing programs that address healthy aging, housing, kinship support and beyond. Watch now! https://ow.ly/bK1750V9Hi7

In the February 20 episode of The Pitt on MAX, AAAs were mentioned, bringing national attention to the vital work you do in supporting older adults and caregivers. It’s always great to see the Aging Network recognized in mainstream media! Check out the episode titled 2:00 P.M. to hear the mention. https://ow.ly/v9e550V7cLt