Tool

This brief explores California’s experiences using a Master Plan for Aging (MPA) to respond to unexpected challenges and opportunities. It also examines how California used their MPA to use state-led programs to address health equity. The brief looks at some of the other benefits of using an MPA including building relationships with a variety of stakeholders, government agencies, and the public. The brief is intended to provide information on California’s experiences with an MPA to help other states build support for developing an MPA.

Through the Medicaid Innovation Accelerator Program (IAP), the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services (CMCS) offers targeted program support to Medicaid agencies seeking to promote community integration for Medicaid beneficiaries using Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS). Based on continuing dialogue with states and other stakeholders, the use of technology has presented an opportunity for state Medicaid agencies to promote community inclusion and community living. As CMCS continues to seek ways to support states, IBM Watson Health was asked to conduct an Environmental Scan (referred to as Environmental Scan, or Scan) to identify existing and emerging technologies used to support community living and integration.

iLink Support Technologies delivers health and behavioral support, home security, in-home care, and emergency support to a customer’s home when it is needed.

Memo #3 relates to the option for participants to receive and providers to offer virtual supports for the following services: Employment Services; Supported Employment Services; Community Development Services; Day Habilitation Services; and Personal Support Services. The purpose of virtual supports is to maintain or improve a participant's functional abilities, enhance interactions, support meaningful relationships, and promote their ability to live independently, and meaningfully participate in their community.

The Aging and Disability Business Institute has launched a new tool to help CBOs show their value as contracting partners to health care entities. The Evidence Bank houses a collection of research studies on common services provided by CBOs that they can use to bolster their own pitches to health care entities.

The SSA has launched a new online tool to help individals declare interest in applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Applicants and individuals assisting applicants can now use this tool to request an appointment to apply for SSI benefits. An individual only needs to provide basic information to make the online request. The SSA will then schedule an appointment to apply for benefits by phone and send notification of the appointment within 7-14 business days.

This blog post explores how the aging network can leverage home and community based services to address needs and improve the quality of life for older adults with HIV/AIDS. The post explains what evidence-based programs are and provides examples of a few that can support this population, including Falls Prevention and Positive Self-Management programs. It also provides a list of trainings and resources to help better serve older adults with HIV/AIDS.

This scan highlights examples of strategies in 11 states, including Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Tennessee, Washington State, and Wisconsin, that have been aimed at strengthening the direct care workforce through legislation, American Rescue Plan Act funding and training.

The Arc has annouced their new Virtual Program Library that includes free, on-demand activities for people with disabilities, their familes and service providers. The library features resources related to the arts, community and life skills, health and wellness and more.

The ADvancing States, in partnership with the National Alliance for Caregiving, created an infographic that depicts an overview of statistics on the experiences of caregivers in the United States, documenting their growing contributions to providing care to older adults and persons with disabilities in light of limited resources for caregiver services.