ACL has released a new brief, Leveraging Innovation, Collaboration, and Data with Assistive Technology to Reduce Social Isolation and Loneliness: Success Story from Illinois.

In this Policy Round Up: Medicaid final rule: Reinstates exemption that helps HCBS workers get employee benefits COVID-19 Updates

In 2012, two significant events set the nation in a new direction related to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD): The formation of the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and publication of the first National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease. The National Plan is updated annually by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE).

Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more. We know that diverse communities are strong communities and that everyone benefits when people can stay involved and included for as long as possible. 

COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted people with chronic conditions. Given this, it is important for health coaches to provide continued self-management support for both COVID-19 and other health concerns. In fact, health coaches can reduce chronic disease burden and address social determinants of health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) programs, funded by ACL’s National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, conduct advanced research and training to improve health, employment, and community living outcomes for people with disabilities.

A large part of the United States has been, or will soon be, experiencing extreme heat conditions (high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for several days). The body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature in extreme heat, and heat-related distress can occur quickly and without warning. Extreme heat can be dangerous for all, but especially for older adults and people with chronic conditions. Take steps to prepare and stay safe using these tips from Ready.gov:

NADRC's "Dementia Training Resources for Professionals and Volunteers" provides links to training and educational materials for professionals and volunteers working with people living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD).

Community Care Corps has announced an RFP for innovative local models where volunteers provide nonmedical assistance to older adults, adults with disabilities, or family caregivers to help them maintain their independence. 

ACL and CMS join our colleagues across HHS and the disability community in mourning the loss of Julie Beckett, who passed away on Friday.