An AARP Take On Today

For more than 60 years, AARP has been fighting to make prescription drugs more affordable for older Americans. Jo Ann Jenkins, AARP's CEO, weighs in on the recent signing of the Inflation Reduction Act. We also dive into new findings from AARP Research. Some people have experienced a shift in their social habits due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings from AARP survey, “The COVID Reset” revealed that many adults age 50 plus have changed their perspectives on social connections. The study surveyed more than 1,900 adults ages 50 and older from across the United States on the importance, effects, and value that is placed upon social connections of different kinds due to the pandemic. Here to help us unpack the findings of the "The COVID Reset” is Patty David, Director of AARP research.

Every year, AARP conducts the “Mirror/Mirror Survey: Women's Reflections on Beauty, Age and Media.” The most recent findings reveal that women are facing discrimination on a daily basis. The study surveyed more than 65-hundred women who are 18 years old or older.  Here to help us unpack the findings on how discrimination affects women's mental health is Dr. Sherry Blake, Clinical Psychologist and author of numerous works on improving health and happiness.  

While people recognize some of the challenges that come with growing, many older Americans have an optimistic outlook and expect their lives to improve. A survey conducted by AARP and National Geographic found Americans are redefining health and finding more happiness through shifting priorities as they grow older.

Americans across the country are ready to begin selecting their representatives in Congress and other elected offices. But some new state voting rules and restrictions are making ballot casting more complicated in much of the country.  To help confront this challenge, AARP has published guides to voting in this year's primaries and general elections in every state, plus Washington, D.C, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. We sit down with Khelan Bhatia, AARP voter engagement director, and Dan Gilgoff, executive editor for aarp.org. For more resources, go to AARP.org/vote

As you probably encounter every day, scammers are trying to reach you around the clock. Our personal information is more vulnerable than ever.   In response, AARP Bulletin conducted an investigation into the inner workings of the global fraud machine. The result was the five-part cover story that you may have seen in the April issue of the Bulletin called “The Bad Guys: Who They are And How to Stop Them.”  Discussing some behind-the-scenes of how this project came together is the Deputy Editor of AARP Bulletin and AARP The Magazine Neil Wertheimer.

The tax filing deadline is fast approaching, and there is a benefit that's new to the 2.8 million adults over age 65. It's the Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC. Those who quality could receive up to $1,500 on their federal return when they file their taxes. This week, we discuss everything you need to know about the benefit with Jackie Lynn Coleman, a director at AARP Foundation who helps lead the team on expanding access to tax benefits for older adults who are living on low income.

This week, we're bringing back a segment from episode 42, “Cracking Down on Annoying Robocalls,” which originally ran on May 30th, 2019. Kathy Stokes from AARP's Fraud Watch Network points out the crucial distinctions between legal and illegal robocalls – and discusses how to reduce them altogether. An estimated 48 billion robocalls came into the United States last year, and according to a recent AARP survey, nearly half of U.S. adults receive seven or more robocalls per week. Tune in to hear how to fight back against the flood of annoying robocalls. Visit aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork for more information on protecting yourself from scams.

Scams targeting seniors have increased during the pandemic. Today, we'll hear about new legislation called the Fraud and Scams Reduction Act, which AARP endorsed.  To discuss what exactly the bill entails, we sat down with Cristina Martin Firvida, AARP Vice President of Financial Security and Consumer Affairs.  We also heard from AARP's Mary Liz Burns about AARP Money Map, a new digital financial tool for all ages to build a budget, save money and manage unplanned expenses.  For more information: AARP's Fraud Watch Network AARP Money Map

The pandemic cast a light on long-standing problems in nursing homes, such as staffing shortages and poor infection control. Although the COVID case rates are falling, nursing home advocates such as our guest, AARP Public Policy Institute Vice President Susan Reinhard, say that these problems will not disappear without intervention. For more information: AARP Nursing Home COVID-19 Dashboard Blog -- COVID-19 at Two Years: Lessons for the Future Plus: Register for AARP Celebrates You! It's a free online festival with friends old and new. This free online event will be filled with celebrity chats from your favorites like Dolly Parton, James Patterson, Ty Pennington and Sanjay Gupta. You'll hear an exclusive concert with the legendary Sir Rod Stewart, see an iconic movie introduced by Gary Sinise, join in a live dance party with Gloria Gaynor, the Commodores, and DJ Jazzy Jeff -- and so much more. Go to AARP.org/celebratesyou to see the full 28-session lineup.

In July of 2019, AARP Foundation filed a class action lawsuit against Yale University. This month, after almost three years, the case was finally settled. The lawsuit alleged that certain university workers and their families were required to participate in the school's employee wellness program. Some employees faced fees of $1,300 per year if they did not participate in the program. We discuss the conclusion of the lawsuit with Dara S. Smith, senior attorney for AARP Foundation. Plus: Register for AARP Celebrates You! It's a free online festival with friends old and new. This 3-day virtual event will be filled with celebrity chats — Tina Fey and Amy Poehler; Dolly Parton, James Patterson and Louise Penny; Valerie Bertinelli; Sanjay Gupta, M.D.; and Ty Pennington, a special screening of the movie Forrest Gump, and a live Motown dance party with the Commodores, DJ Jazzy Jeff and Gloria Gaynor. Reserve your spot today – and get ready to party with AARP! AARP.org/celebrates

Many of us struggle with weight gain as we age. You may be eating healthfully and exercising just as much, but you're still gaining weight. Science has learned that this happens not because your metabolism is slower – something else is going on.   On today's show, Stephen Perrine, author of new book The Whole Body Reset, explains how extra protein eaten at the right time could be the solution that can keep fat off and muscle on. 

The same approach that you would take to decluttering your closet can be applied to your smartphone applications. Today, Ed Baig, a contributing writer for AARP and co-author of the book “iPhone for Dummies,” explains why people should want to organize their phone applications and provide us with efficient ways to do it.  We also provide an update on the shutdown of 3G across the country. If you have a medical device, home alarm system, medical alert bracelet, older cell phone, or a GPS navigating system, you may lose service without realizing it. Or you might have lost it already.  For more information:  Phasing Out of 3G, an online discussion forum led by Senior Planet   AARP article: Phone companies to end 3G service  AARP article: 6 Tips to help you organize your apps     

Caring for a family member is one of the most important roles you could take on. But it comes with many conflicting feelings. Reports tell us caregivers' positive emotions often coexist with feelings of isolation or stress. Not to mention financial strain. Still, many feel that the role gives them a sense of purpose.   In this episode, Rita Choula, the Director of Caregiving for AARP Public Policy Institute, shares her experience as a family caregiver with a special eye toward the lives of African American caregivers.

You might have seen advertisements from cell phone providers to switch and upgrade your network to 5G. It is an upgrade that will bring better service and faster download speeds on mobile. However, the carriers plan to shut down 3G networks to make room for the upgrade this year. Millions of devices, such as smoke alarms and personal emergency response systems, continue to depend on 3G, leaving countless older adults potentially without service. Today Bill Signer, a lobbyist for the Alarm Industry Communications Committee, explains how this change will negatively impact millions. We'll also hear from AARP's Danielle Arigoni on what you can do to prepare.   For more information: www.aarp.org/3g

Valentine's Day is almost here! It's become a tradition to spread love to socially isolated older adults in the community come February through the Cupid Crew, a project by Wish of a Lifetime from AARP.  Girl Scouts of the USA, volunteers and schools across the country join what's known as the Cupid Crew. They write heartfelt messages on personalized greeting cards, and send them to socially isolated older adults. The goal is to deliver a quarter million cards this year.  On today's show, we sat down with Cupid Crew founder, Olympic gold medalist Jeremy Bloom to discuss how his organization is warming hearts letter by letter. We also hear from Girl Scout member Kayla and Troop Leader Karen on how the Girl Scouts and Cupid Crew became involved.  Learn how you can get involved: Cupid Crew - Wish of a Lifetime 

A report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the number of job openings in the U.S. was over 10 million at the end of 2021. Some are calling this trend the Great Resignation. And some are thinking about it differently. We caught up with AARP Vice President of Financial Resiliency Susan Weinstock to discuss how exactly older workers fit in and what they can do to improve their chances in the job market.

The continued spread of the COVID-19 Delta Variant, coupled with the start of flu season, is increasing concerns for many older adults. This live event addressed the uncertainty surrounding boosters and how to keep you and your family safe from other breakthrough infections. The Experts: Steven C. Johnson, M.D. Professor of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases University of Colorado School of Medicine and Anschutz Medical Campus Multidisciplinary Center on Aging Jane Strommen, Ph.D. Gerontology Specialist North Dakota State University Extension Nancy LeaMondSpecial Guest Executive Vice President, Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer AARP

Originally recorded live on September 23, 2021 The continued spread of the COVID-19 Delta Variant, coupled with the start of flu season, is increasing concerns for many older adults. This live event addressed the uncertainty surrounding boosters and how to keep you and your family safe from other breakthrough infections. The Experts: Steven C. Johnson, M.D. Professor of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases University of Colorado School of Medicine and Anschutz Medical Campus Multidisciplinary Center on Aging Jane Strommen, Ph.D. Gerontology Specialist North Dakota State University Extension Nancy LeaMondSpecial Guest Executive Vice President, Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer AARP

It's hard to miss the effects of inflation. Whether you're at the gas pump or at the grocery store, you've probably noticed goods are getting more expensive.  We turn to John Waggoner, senior writer and finance journalist. He covers all things financial at AARP, and he says there's plenty you can do. On today's show, we discuss some ways you can help improve the value of your money. Not only that, but we go over what might not work. For more information: A Primer on Inflation from AARP Series I Savings Bonds from the U.S. Treasury

Betty White was ready to celebrate her 100th birthday on January 17th. But on New Year's Eve, she died peacefully in her sleep. She lit television screens, and made us laugh in her seven decades as an actor and comedian. For us here at AARP, Betty White is also a she-ro of sorts. She embraced aging with positivity, and with humor. This week, we sat down with AARP film critic Tim Appelo to discuss the ways Betty White rose above Hollywood ageism.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a massive surge in online shopping rather than going to brick-and-mortar stores. Although online shopping is convenient, experts like AARP Director of Fraud Victim Support Amy Nofziger urge caution. Listen in as she discusses the various ways you might encounter a scammer when shopping online. For more information: Holiday Scams: The Gift That Keeps on Taking report

A new AARP report finds that veterans are more likely to lose money to scams than civilians. Fraudsters often use military jargon and specific government guidelines to craft an effective pitch to steal money from military members and veterans. AARP's Troy Broussard, a veteran himself, reveals scammers' tactics and shares tips on how to protect yourself from thieves.

On Thursday, President Biden unveiled the Build Back Better framework – a “$1.75 trillion economic and climate change plan.” But it left out one of his central pledges: to act on high drug prices.   We put together today's special episode to give you an update, to let you know that the fight isn't over, and to share what you can do to make a difference. Contact your representatives: House Representative: 844-489-1022 Senate Representatives: 844-489-1338 Or visit action.aarp.org/rx

For decades, Chef Bill Bracken led kitchens and won awards for his culinary work. He had worked in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach to cook for high-profile diners. But in 2013, he changed course and fed his local community instead. In recognition of his ability to tap into his life experience to build a better future for us all, Bracken won a 2022 AARP Purpose Prize. Today, we hear about how his non-profit, Bracken's Kitchen, feeds the hungry, trains young people to cook and eliminate food waste. 

The Social Security Administration just announced its annual cost-of-living adjustment for 2022. This week, we talk about the rate increase and what it means for Social Security beneficiaries. Also, we'll discuss the state of unemployment for older workers. AARP Vice President of Financial Resiliency Programming Susan Weinstock says there are resources for those who want to improve their chances at landing an interview as an older adult.

AARP Foundation's Experience Corps is a program that helps young children from vulnerable backgrounds become proficient readers by pairing them with adult mentors age 50 and older. Today, we'll hear from Mioshi Moses, Vice President of the program, as she breaks down why the program not only empowers them but the older adults who tutor them as well. We'll also hear from a volunteer as he voices his experience as a mentor.

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time where people celebrate the contributions of Latino Americans to our country's history, but it's also an opportunity to reflect on the issues that currently affect different Latino groups around the country. Today, we do both. We'll discuss the cultural icons that made their mark on our collective culture and the health and economic problems older Latinos are facing.

Originally Recorded Live On August 26, 2021 The spread of the COVID-19 delta variant continues to alter our daily lives both at home and at work, and it's placing a tremendous financial burden on many families. This live event addressed your questions on how to stay safe and protected given the changing information around mask guidelines and booster shots. It also covered how to navigate a changing workplace and how to find financial help and assistance. The experts: Steven C. Johnson, M.D. Professor of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus Multidisciplinary Center on Aging Lee Baker Owner and President Apex Financial Solutions Nancy LeaMond Special Guest Executive Vice President Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer, AARP

Originally Recorded Live on August 26, 2021 The spread of the COVID-19 delta variant continues to alter our daily lives both at home and at work, and it's placing a tremendous financial burden on many families. This live event addressed your questions on how to stay safe and protected given the changing information around mask guidelines and booster shots. It also covered how to navigate a changing workplace and how to find financial help and assistance. The experts: Steven C. Johnson, M.D. Professor of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus Multidisciplinary Center on Aging Lee Baker Owner and President Apex Financial Solutions Nancy LeaMond Special Guest Executive Vice President Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer, AARP

Last year, AARP launched a series of virtual town halls to answer questions about the virus to combat misinformation. Since then, AARP's Coronavirus Tele-Town Halls have become a staple for helping seniors stay informed about various topics related to COVID-19. Today, we'll talk to the host and producer of these events to discuss what they've learned from the experts and callers.

As infection rates among nursing homes increase, experts are urging for more vaccinations. With the rise of new variants, the Biden Administration announced that they will require all employees in nursing homes to get vaccinated against the virus. Today, we hear from AARP state leaders as we break down our most recent Nursing Home COVID-19 Dashboard.

Originally Recorded Live on August 12, 2021 The COVID-19 Delta variant is spreading quickly, causing confusion across the country. Many older adults have concerns related to their health and safety given the changing landscape and guidelines. This live Q&A event addressed the revised CDC mask guidelines, booster shots, the vaccination status of workers and safety protocols for loved ones in care facilities. It also covered how to access housing assistance and services for those experiencing economic distress and struggling to pay rent due to the pandemic. The Experts: Mark Rupp, M.D. Professor, Department of Internal Medicine Chief, Division of Infectious Diseases University of Nebraska Medical Center Lori SmetankaExecutive Director The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care Per Olstad Sr. Advisor Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Originally Recorded Live on August 12, 2021. The COVID-19 Delta variant is spreading quickly, causing confusion across the country. Many older adults have concerns related to their health and safety given the changing landscape and guidelines. This live Q&A event addressed the revised CDC mask guidelines, booster shots, the vaccination status of workers and safety protocols for loved ones in care facilities. It also covered how to access housing assistance and services for those experiencing economic distress and struggling to pay rent due to the pandemic. The Experts: Mark Rupp, M.D. Professor, Department of Internal Medicine Chief, Division of Infectious Diseases University of Nebraska Medical Center Lori SmetankaExecutive Director The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care Per Olstad Sr. Advisor Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

A new report from AARP has found criminals devising new ways to trick you into giving out your personal information, both online and by phone. Today, we hear from a woman who was victimized by one of these scams, as well as from two experts, breaking down how to identify and avoid scams targeting Black and Latino communities.

President Biden issued an executive order this month designed to help hearing aids become more accessible to those who need them. Today, we speak with two women about the obstacles they faced with getting their hearing devices. Also, Andrew Scholnick, AARP's Senior Legislative Representative in Government Affairs, breaks down the president's announcement.

A new survey finds that most older Americans struggle to keep up with prescription costs. In fact, our guests say that people often have to make a choice between food and medicine. Today, we discuss the impossible situation of high prescription costs with Larry Zarzecki, a retired police officer who lives with Parkinson's disease -- and his treatment costs over $3,000 per month. And, we'll hear about potential ways to lower prescription prices with AARP's Leigh Purvis.

Discussing a loved one's dementia diagnosis benefits everybody, experts say. Good communication can improve health care outcomes. Today, we hear from Brian Leblanc and his wife Maureen, as they discuss their experience with dementia, and why it's important to speak up. Also, Sarah Lenz Lock, Executive Director of the Global Council on Brain Health, discusses the stigmas around dementia.

Recorded Live June 24, 2021 Older Americans have been hard hit by the coronavirus and LGBTQ older adults are particularly vulnerable and more likely to have adverse consequences from COVID-19. This event addresses the impact of the pandemic on older LGBTQ adults, the Equality Act and how AARP is fighting to improve the health, finances and well-being of older LGBTQ adults. Meet the Experts: Oni Blackstock, MD, MHS, Founder and Executive Director, Health Justice Alphonso B. David, President, Human Rights Campaign Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, Deputy Executive Director, National Center for Transgender Equality Annise Parker, President & CEO, Victory Institute

Recorded Live June 24, 2021 Older Americans have been hard hit by the coronavirus and LGBTQ older adults are particularly vulnerable and more likely to have adverse consequences from COVID-19. This event addresses the impact of the pandemic on older LGBTQ adults, the Equality Act and how AARP is fighting to improve the health, finances and well-being of older LGBTQ adults. Meet the Experts: Oni Blackstock, MD, MHS, Founder and Executive Director, Health Justice Alphonso B. David, President, Human Rights Campaign Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, Deputy Executive Director, National Center for Transgender Equality Annise Parker, President & CEO, Victory Institute

Recorded Live June 17, 2021 With mask mandates and restrictions in many states lifted, much of the country is returning to pre-COVID habits, including recreational, social, and family activities. And while more than 75% of the 65+ are fully vaccinated, many have questions around vaccine efficacy, reopening ‘norms,' and how to stay safe and protected during this transition. This event addressed reopening concerns, vaccination progress and staying safe while resuming social activities. The experts: Kathleen Neuzil, M.D. Director, Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health University of Maryland School of Medicine Kate Haw,Collections and Exhibitions Director National Gallery of Art Nancy LeaMond Executive Vice President, Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer AARP

Recorded Live June 17, 2021 With mask mandates and restrictions in many states lifted, much of the country is returning to pre-COVID habits, including recreational, social, and family activities. And while more than 75% of the 65+ are fully vaccinated, many have questions around vaccine efficacy, reopening ‘norms,' and how to stay safe and protected during this transition. This event addressed reopening concerns, vaccination progress and staying safe while resuming social activities. The experts: Kathleen Neuzil, M.D. Director, Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health University of Maryland School of Medicine Kate HawCollections and Exhibitions Director National Gallery of Art Nancy LeaMond Executive Vice President, Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer AARP  

As the economy begins to heal, workplace age discrimination continues to hold older workers back. This week, we discuss how to defend yourself if you encounter it. We'll walk through what to expect when you file a charge against your employer with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).   And: We hear updates about an important bill that the U.S. House of Representatives is voting on this week. It's called the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act (POWADA).   For more information: AARP.org/agediscrimination EEOC.gov

Cryptocurrencies are cash for the digital age and they are exploding in popularity. Bitcoin, perhaps the most well-known cryptocurrency, is being valued at over $30,000 right now. They've caught the eye of not just amateur traders, but scammers as well. This week, we discuss what you need to know about the risks of trading online-only assets.

Recorded Live June 3, 2021 Although vaccination rates are on the rise and the CDC has relaxed some masking and social distancing requirements, many older adults are still struggling financially. This live Q&A event addressed how to manage your income, credit and savings in a challenging economy. The experts shared how to access housing assistance and services if you're struggling to pay the rent. The experts: Mark Rupp, M.D.Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Chief, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center Dave UejioActing Director, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Lee BakerOwner and President, Apex Financial Solutions Megan O'ReillyVice President, Federal Health and Family, Government Affairs at AARP

Recorded Live June 3, 2021 Although vaccination rates are on the rise and the CDC has relaxed some masking and social distancing requirements, many older adults are still struggling financially. This live Q&A event addressed how to manage your income, credit and savings in a challenging economy. The experts shared how to access housing assistance and services if you're struggling to pay the rent. The experts: Mark Rupp, M.D.Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Chief, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center Dave UejioActing Director, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Lee BakerOwner and President, Apex Financial Solutions Megan O'ReillyVice President, Federal Health and Family, Government Affairs at AARP

Recorded Live May 20, 2021 While new COVID-19 cases have fallen to their lowest levels since September, many people are still hesitant to get a shot. This live Q&A event addressed your questions and concerns about the vaccines and how to stay safe in public, social and family circles as things begin to open up across the country. The Experts: Lindsey Gottlieb, MDDirector of Infection Prevention, Mount Sinai Morningside Warren P. Hebert, Jr., DNP, RNNursing Professor, Loyola University of New Orleans, CEO, HomeCare Association of Louisiana Virginia Caine, MDDirector and Chief Medical Officer, Marion County (IN) Public Health Department Associate Professor of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases

Recorded Live May 20, 2021 While new COVID-19 cases have fallen to their lowest levels since September, many people are still hesitant to get a shot. This live Q&A event addressed your questions and concerns about the vaccines and how to stay safe in public, social and family circles as things begin to open up across the country. The Experts: Lindsey Gottlieb, MDDirector of Infection Prevention, Mount Sinai Morningside Warren P. Hebert, Jr., DNP, RNNursing Professor, Loyola University of New Orleans, CEO, HomeCare Association of Louisiana Virginia Caine, MDDirector and Chief Medical Officer, Marion County (IN) Public Health Department Associate Professor of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases

Fifteen years ago, three women began working to have the U.S. Postal Service create a new stamp honoring the sacrifice of Japanese Americans who fought in WWII. This year, their long sought-after story will finally be shared through a commemorative stamp. Listen to their story of determination on today’s Memorial Day show. For more information: Go for Broke Commemorative Forever Stamp Stamp Our Story

Recorded Live May 6 Experts answered your questions and provided the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines, as well as how to prioritize mental wellness and maintain social connections during the pandemic. The experts: Rekha Rapaka, M.D., Ph.D.Assistant Professor of Medicine, Center for Vaccine Development, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Maryland Samantha Farro, Ph.D.Licensed psychologist, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Multidisciplinary Center on Aging Nancy LeaMondExecutive Vice President, Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer, AARP

Recorded Live May 6 Experts answered your questions and provided the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines, as well as how to prioritize mental wellness and maintain social connections during the pandemic. The experts: Rekha Rapaka, M.D., Ph.D.Assistant Professor of Medicine, Center for Vaccine Development, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Maryland Samantha Farro, Ph.D.Licensed psychologist, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Multidisciplinary Center on Aging Nancy LeaMondExecutive Vice President, Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer, AARP

After about 15 months of too much worrying, sitting, and staying up late, returning to a healthy lifestyle won’t be easy. This month's cover story for the May AARP Bulletin features tips on how to reverse these bad habits picked up during the pandemic. Today, Stephen Perrine, Special Project Editor for AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin, gives his take on how to change your daily routines for the better. For more information, read 60 Post Pandemic-Health Habits to Help Get Back on Track.