agenda - Advocates For Senior Issues

Membership Meeting
Friday, March 20, 2015
Frederik Meijer Gardens
1000 East Beltline, Grand Rapids, MI
9:00 AM – Strategy Group Meetings
10:00 AM – General Meeting
AGENDA
Call to Order and Announcements: Maureen Slade, President
Strategy Group Reports
Legislative Presentation: Representative Brandon Dillon, D-75,
Grand Rapids
Rep. Brandon Dillon is serving his third term as state representative
for House District 75, which covers portions of Grand Rapids. Rep.
Dillon serves on the House Appropriations Committee. He is the
Democratic vice chairman of the House Appropriations School Aid
Subcommittee and also serves on the Department of Community
Health Subcommittee.
Program Presentation: “The Driver Re-examination Process
and Senior Issues” – Rick Duncan, Senior Traffic Safety
Analyst, Michigan Department of State
Mr. Duncan will explain why drivers are referred for reexamination
and what happens during the reexamination process. He will also
convey the Department’s goal to assure that all drivers, no matter
their age, maintain their driving privilege for as long as it is safe for
them to do so.
Next Meeting: April 17, 2015 at the Wyoming Senior Center
Advocates for Senior Issues is a non-partisan organization, affiliated with the Area Agency
on Aging of Western Michigan
AFSI Executive Committee
Name
Phone
AFSI Legislative Committee
E-Mail Address
Name
Thomas Appel
(616) 874-6537
[email protected]
Darlene Berghorst
(616) 942-1544
[email protected]
Dorothy Jo Butler
(616) 241-6180
[email protected]
Lois Carey
(616) 942-9811
[email protected]
Dave Carpenter
(616) 802-8922
[email protected]
Both committees
Evans DeVries
(616) 532-3396
[email protected]
Both committees
Bob Dunlap
(616) 791-1267
[email protected]
Both committees
Judy France
(616) 698-6314
[email protected]
Bob Levine, MD
(616) 954-2552
[email protected]
Gordon Pater
(616) 453-9669
[email protected]
Roberta Rice
(616) 682-2429
[email protected]
Both committees
Stan Roth
(616) 457-1949
[email protected]
Both committees
Jan Schultz
(616) 538-6008
[email protected]
Deborah Snow
(616) 243-5226
[email protected]
Both committees
Maureen Slade
(616) 365-3296
[email protected]
Both committees
Tolly Stiffler
(616) 949-6468
[email protected]
Both committees
Ann Thomas
(616) 940-0722
[email protected]
Both committees
Phone
E-Mail Address
Both committees
Both commitees
Larry Broomberg (616) 949-6084
[email protected]
Bill Byl
(616) 336-3688
[email protected]
Ruth Kelly
(616) 238-9370
[email protected]
Frank Lynn
(616) 942-8067
[email protected]
Frances Maycroft (616) 364-0912
[email protected]
Barb Neal Ward
[email protected]
(231) 550-6314
AAAWM Staff____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Tom Czerwinski
(616) 222-7001
[email protected]
Tom Czerwinski (616) 222-7001
[email protected]
Lisa Ellens
(616) 222-7015
[email protected]
Lisa Ellens
[email protected]
Name
Phone
800Number
(616) 222-7015
E-Mail Address
Notes
Governor's Office
Snyder, Rick
(517) 373-3400
[email protected]
(517) 335-7858 - Constituent Services
Michigan Representatives
Brinks, Winnie-76
(517) 373-0822
Dillon, Brandon-75
(517)-373-2668
(877) 976-4769
[email protected]
[email protected]
Hooker, Thomas-77
(517) 373-2277
[email protected]
Lyons, Lisa-86
(517) 373-0846
[email protected]
Afendoulis, Chris-73
(517) 373-0218
[email protected]
VerHeulen, Rob-74
(517) 373-8900
(800) 968-2320
[email protected]
Yonker, Ken-72
(517) 373-0840
(888) 347-8072
[email protected]
Michigan Senators
Hildenbrand, Dave-29
(517) 373-1801
[email protected]
MacGregor, Peter-28
(517) 373-0797
[email protected]
U.S. Representatives
Amash, Justin-3
(202) 225-3831
Through Website: https://amash.house.gov/contact-me
Huizenga, Bill-2
(202) 225-4401
Through Website:https://huizenga.house.gov/contact-me/email-me
U.S. Senators
Peters, Gary
(313) 226-6020
Stabenow, Debbie
(616) 975-0052
[email protected]
March 20, 2015
Questions for Representative Dillon:
1. How would you describe your philosophy as to the role of State government in
the lives of Michigan’s citizens?
2. a. Public Act 252 was passed by the Michigan Legislature and signed into law
by Gov. Snyder in late December, 2013. It doubled the amount of money
people are allowed to give to political individual political campaigns from $3400
to $6800. Prior to this doubling, very few people met the $3400 cap, so why
was it necessary to raise it?
b. The act also limits access to donor names for issue ads if they do not
specifically endorse a candidate. What is your opinion about PA252?
3. The Michigan Sales Tax Increase for Transportation Amendment (Proposal 1)
will appear on the ballot on May 5th.
a. Do you want to see the citizens of Michigan vote yes or no? Why?
b. We have been told there is no alternate plan if Prop 1 fails. Is that true?
c. Why didn’t the Legislature offer the voters separate plans for education,
cities, and roads?
d. What do you believe will be the long-term consequences of this sales tax
hike?
4. In the past, you have supported funding for home care programs like the
Medicaid Waiver and OSA funded services. What will you do to advocate for
additional funding for these vital services?
5. Do you believe there is any way Michigan’s current term-limit law can be
changed in the future? Why or why not?
6. Can you please explain the issue of MEDC and tax credits and the ways in
which Michigan’s financial status has been affected?
Rally on the Michigan State Capitol Lawn
Hear remarks from Legislative Leaders
Meet with Individual Legislators
http://www.oldermichiganiansday.com/
OMD is a free event and box lunches are available. For registration and information on obtaining a lunch ticket, contact
Lisa at the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at (616) 456-5664.
HOW CAN I ATTEND?
Tuesday, June 2, 2015 from 10:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.
WHEN IS THE EVENT?
East Lawn of the State Capitol Building in Lansing
WHERE IS THE EVENT HELD?
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What Will I Do During the Event?
Older Michiganians Day (OMD) is an annual FREE event that brings together hundreds of seniors, aging
service providers and senior advocates. OMD provides an opportunity for Michiganians to share a unified
voice with the Legislature, expressing the concerns, challenges, and potential initiatives for older adults by
local experts, older adults themselves.
A Voice For Michigan’s Aging
Healthy Lifestyle
Healthy aging
Driving can sometimes be challenging for older adults. Follow these safety tips
for older drivers, from taking good care of yourself to planning ahead and
updating your skills.
By Mayo Clinic Staff
Driver safety requires more than understanding road signs and traffic laws. As you get
older, you'll likely notice physical changes that can make certain actions — such as
turning your head to look for oncoming traffic or braking safely — more challenging.
Still, older drivers can remain safe on the road. Consider seven tips for older drivers.
Staying physically active improves your strength and flexibility. In turn, physical activity
can improve driver safety by making it easier to turn the steering wheel, look over your
shoulder, and make other movements while driving and parking.
Look for ways to include physical activity in your daily routine. Walking is a great choice
for many people. Stretching and strength training exercises are helpful for older drivers,
too. If you've been sedentary, get your doctor's OK before increasing your activity level.
Some senses, such as hearing and vision, tend to decline with age. Impaired hearing
can be a concern for older drivers by limiting the ability to hear an approaching
emergency vehicle or train. Common age-related vision problems — such as cataracts,
glaucoma and macular degeneration — also can make it difficult to see clearly or drive
at night.
Ask your doctor how often to schedule vision and hearing tests. Even if you think your
hearing and vision are fine, stick to your doctor's recommended exam schedule.
Problems might be easier to correct if caught early.
Work with your doctor to manage any chronic conditions — especially those that might
impact driver safety, such as diabetes or seizures. Follow your doctor's instructions for
managing your condition and staying safe behind the wheel. This might include
adjusting your treatment plan or restricting your driving.
It's equally important to know your medications. Many drugs, including pain
medications, sleep medications, antihistamines and muscle relaxants can affect driver
safety, even when you're feeling fine. Read your medication labels so that you know
Jun. 26, 2014
Original article and references: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/healthy-aging/in-depth/seniorhealth/art-20046397
what to expect from each one. Don't drive if you've taken medication that causes
drowsiness or dizziness. If you're concerned about side effects or the impact on driver
safety, consult your doctor.
Consider your physical limitations and make any necessary adjustments. For example,
if your hands hurt when gripping the steering wheel, use a steering wheel cover that
makes holding and turning the wheel more comfortable. You might ask your doctor for a
referral to an occupational therapist, who can offer assistive devices to help you drive or
suggest exercises to help you overcome your limitations.
You might also adjust your vehicle or choose a different vehicle to better meet your
needs. For example, vehicles that feature larger, easier-to-read dials on the dashboard
are often popular with older drivers.
You can improve driver safety by driving during the daytime, in good weather, on quiet
roads and in familiar areas. If visibility is poor, consider delaying your trip or using public
transportation. Beyond road conditions, make sure you're in optimal condition to drive.
Don't drive if you're tired or angry — and never drive after drinking alcohol.
When you get in your vehicle, be prepared. Plan your route ahead of time so that you
don't need to read a map or directions while driving. If you use a GPS device, enter your
destination before you start driving. If necessary, call ahead for directions. While you're
driving, don't do anything that takes your focus from the road — such as eating, talking
on your cellphone, texting or adjusting the radio.
Consider taking a refresher course for older drivers. Updating your driving skills might
even earn you a discount on your car insurance, depending on your policy. Look for
courses through a community education program or local organizations that serve older
adults.
If you become confused while you're driving or you're concerned about your ability to
drive safely — or others have expressed concern — it might be best to stop driving.
Consider taking the bus, using a van service, hiring a driver or taking advantage of other
local transportation options. Giving up your car keys doesn't need to end your
independence. Instead, consider it a way to keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Jun. 26, 2014
Original article and references: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/healthy-aging/in-depth/seniorhealth/art-20046397
Dear Advocates, How many people do you know that are struggling to stay in their own homes because they need some help with things like preparing meals, getting bathed and dressed, keeping the house clean, or managing medications? There are two programs, one called the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver and the other called Office of Services to the Aging, that are funded by the state of Michigan and provide assistance with these and other activities. These programs are scheduled to receive the same amount of money this year as they did last year, which means they will only be able to help the same number of people. We know that there are MORE people who need services like this, so we are asking the Michigan legislature to provide more money for them. If you
agree that there are many seniors that don’t get any
help right now but really need meals and services in
their homes, please fill out the section on the right,
cut it out, and mail it to your state representative or
senator.
It is very important that the Representatives and Senators receive as many letters as possible, so they will know how important these programs are to seniors. Please fill out and send this letter, or write one like it, and encourage a friend to write one, too. To get more copies or to ask a question, please call Lisa at 222‐7015. “This program has saved my life and kept me away from the nursing home…Sometimes I can’t even get out of bed – at least now I can rely on my aide who makes sure I am clean, my house is clean, and that I receive my meals.” ‐ Roberta Support the
MI Choice Medicaid Waiver
AND
Office of Services to the
Aging
Dear , As an older adult and constituent in your district, I urge you to increase funding for the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver and the Office of Services to the Aging. Seniors want to stay at home, and the state wants to save money. These programs do both. With increased funding, more people will receive services and meals that help them stay out of nursing homes. Please fight for budget increases for both of these programs. Thank you. Sincerely, (Name) ______________________________________________ (Address) _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ANNOUNCEMENT!
The April meeting will be held at
the Wyoming Senior Center.
Continuing the effort by the Advocates for Senior Issues to
include a wide range of seniors in monthly meetings and
other events, the April 17, 2015 meeting will be held at the
Wyoming Senior Center, located at 2380 De Hoop Avenue
SW in Wyoming, MI. Details and a map will be included in
next month’s packet. We look forward to seeing you there!
Thank you to all of our sponsors:
Gold:
AARP
Beacon Hill at Eastgate
ComForcare Senior Services
DTE Energy Foundation
Hunter Law Offices
MapleCreek Senior Living
Meijer
Morris Builders, Inc.
Priority Health
Villa Maria Retirement Community
Silver:
Always Best Care Senior Services
Consumers Energy
Elders’ Helpers
Gauthier Family Home Care
Grand Rapids Ophthalmology
Health Care Associates
Hear USA
HHS, Health Options
Law Offices of Sean Patrick Cox, PLLC
Life EMS Ambulance
Miller Johnson Elder Law Practice Team
Miracle-Ear
Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services
West Michigan Credit Union
Bronze:
AngelCare Home Care
Calvin Academy for Lifelong Learning
Care Resources PACE
Clark Retirement Community
Comfort Keepers
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
Robert Levine, MD
Making Choices Michigan
Metron Integrated Health Systems
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute/Aquinas College
Pilgrim Manor
The Rapid
Steelcase, Inc.
Marilyn Titche
Friend:
Advanced Professional Home Health Care
Airway Oxygen, Inc.
Tom Appel
Lois Carey
Consider It Done
Exchange Ur Care
Faith Hospice
Philip and Judy France
Heart of West Michigan United Way
Helpers of Holland Home
Holland Home
Home Care of Holland Home
Hospice of Michigan
iHear – Mobile Hearing Services
Joel Jason, CFP®, Certified Financial Planner
Beth Mans, Greenridge Realty, Your Senior Real Estate
Specialist
National Active & Retired Federal Employees, Grand
Rapids Chapter 234
Porter Hills Retirement Communities and Services
Region 9 MEA-Retired
Right at Home, In Home Care and Assistance
Senior Meals Program, Inc.
Deb Snow
Beth A. Swagman, PLLC
Ann Thomas
The West Michigan Estate Planning Center: Cottrell &
Jacobs, PLC
Yorkshire & Stonebridge Manors
Elizabeth Zeldes, Senior Advisory Services, PLLC