The Aging Report

Black History Month is an annual recognition of the history, achievements, and influence of the Black community. But at this point in history, as systemic racism persists and Black Americans continue to experience the effects of racism and prejudice, it’s important for organizations to go beyond simply posting a Martin Luther King Jr. quote in honor of the day. Instead, this month is the perfect opportunity to educate your audience, support Black creators or businesses, and advocate for change.

Black History Month recognizes the history, culture, and contributions of Black Americans; it is a celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. 

This year, AgeGuide will host two Advocacy Collaborative events, one virtually and one in-person.

We have invited elected officials, aging network providers, local partners, and concerned citizens for a discussion about current issues facing Illinois older adults, caregivers, and their families. This event is intended to provide our legislators with an update on AgeGuide’s legislative priorities for 2023. Join us for one or both sessions:  

Choose your session:

Virtual Event

March 13, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

In-Person Event

March 17, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Senior Services Associates Inc.

2111 Plum Street, Aurora, IL 60506

Light breakfast will be served!

Did you know that people who have close relationships at home, work, or in their community tend to be healthier and live longer? One reason, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), is that we’re more successful at meeting our health goals when we work on them with others. NHLBI launched the #OurHearts movement to inspire us to protect and strengthen our hearts with the support of others.

Here are some facts, how-to tips, and resources to inspire you to join with others, even if you can’t be physically together, to improve your heart health. 

Older adults are living longer, healthier lives than ever before in history. Most of us want to “age in place”. To support this home and community-based focus in our longer lives, we need to rethink our assumptions about aging and make changes to policy and legislation to ensure that everyone has access to the support they need to age well. As AgeGuide prepares to host its Advocacy Collaborative events this year, our priorities focus on building healthy, age-inclusive communities and support systems for all Illinois older adults and their caregivers.

Don’t miss our new podcast episode featuring The Sounds Good Choir. Learn how this unique choir offers respite to caregivers of all ages while helping people with dementia and other disabilities connect to music and artistic expression. You’ll also meet our new Caregiver Specialist, Caitlyn Tolentino, who shares other resources and supports for caregivers. And of course, you’ll hear clips from the Sounds Good Choir woven throughout the episode. We hope that this leaves you with a song in your heart and a better understanding of the difference caregiver and dementia support programs can make.

In the next episode of The Age Guide Podcast, we wrap up our series on caregivers with an interview with Nancy Hamilton, a caregiver of an adult son who has a disability. Hear about her journey as a caregiver as she shares the many challenges, emotions, and rewards that go along with her role. Don’t miss this chance to learn more about caregiving and maybe find resources and support for yourself or a loved one.

Follow us on Instagram, YouTube and listen to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform. 

There is a proposal before the Pritzker administration to provide an increase in the aid to the Aged, Blind, and Disabled program that will allow residents in Illinois a combined income. Read the article to learn more.

On Tuesday, February 7, President Biden gave his State of the Union address. The President acknowledged the need to provide home and community-based services and supports for older adults and individuals with disabilities. At one point in the address, President Biden quoted, "Let's all agree to stand up for seniors!". Follow this link to watch the recording.

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