Category: Aging

A Centenarian Thrives Living Alone, Active and Engaged

Many older adults living alone, isolated and vulnerable, struggle with health issues. But a noteworthy slice of this growing group of seniors maintain a high degree of well-being. Meet Hilda Jaffe, age 102.

Resources Are Expanding for Older Adults on Their Own

Aging alone, without a spouse, a partner, or children, requires careful planning. New programs for this growing population offer much-needed help.

Nursing Homes Fell Behind on Vaccinating Patients for Covid

Last winter, only 4 in 10 nursing home residents got an updated covid vaccine. The low uptake leaves a fragile population vulnerable. Some industry watchdogs say it could be a sign of eroding trust between nursing home residents and providers.

Nursing Home Industry Wants Trump To Rescind Staffing Mandate

A Biden administration rule that imposed minimum rules on nursing levels may not survive, even though many homes lack enough workers to maintain residents’ care.

Homebound Seniors Living Alone Often Slip Through Health System’s Cracks

There is a large population of older adults with physical problems that prevent them from leaving home. Many have significant medical and practical needs that go unmet.

Readers Embrace ‘Going It Alone’ Series on Aging and Chastise Makers of Pulse Oximeters

KFF Health News gives readers a chance to comment on a recent batch of stories.

Social Security Tackles Overpayment ‘Injustices,’ but Problems Remain

With his term soon to expire, Social Security chief Martin O’Malley’s efforts to address the agency’s overpayments to beneficiaries remain incomplete.

Older Americans Living Alone Often Rely on Neighbors or Others Willing To Help

Diverse networks of friends, former co-workers, neighbors, and extended family are often essential sources of support for older adults living alone. Often it is the elderly caring for the elderly.

Watchdog Calls for Tighter Scrutiny of Medicare Advantage Home Visits

Medicare officials defend the use of home visits that often spot medical conditions that are never treated.

Election Outcome Could Bring Big Changes to Medicare

Democrats and conservatives are divided over whether the federal health program for people over 65 should be run almost entirely by the private sector. If Trump retakes the White House, the shift to Medicare Advantage may accelerate.