Michael Nischan from the McCart Group led our first webinar on April 23 entitled Bus Compliance and Safety... the nuts and bolts.

In this Issue

Inside Your Association -- Aging Services of Georgia

General Notes of Interest

Public Policy Update

Business Connection
Updates from Our Associate Members

Institute News

Center News

Organization/Board Development

News Throughout
the Continuum:

Vacancy Report

Career Opportunities

AAHSA Information

GIA Partners

Occupied
Renovations

Cornerstone
Senior Living

Moore Stephens Lovelace, P.A.

GIA Supporters

Ziegler Capital
Markets Group

Mauldin & Jenkins

LW Consulting, Inc.

Guest Services

Dixon Hughes

Pfizer

GIA Friends  

The Law Offices of Williams & Edelstein

GIA Contributors

HVAC Services

Kings Bridge Retirement Center

Seth Strongin, CPA

Canterbury Court

Presbyterian Village

Presbyterian Homes of Georgia

THW Design

AAHSA
http://www.aahsa.org

Keep Up with the Quality First Program

Aging Services of Georgia is the statewide association of over 150 key not-for-profit and other mission-focused organizations dedicated to providing quality housing, health care, community-based and other related services for older Georgians. The mission of Aging Services of Georgia is to represent and promote the common interests of its members through leadership, advocacy, education and other services in order to enhance each member's ability to serve older Georgians

Inside Your Association -- Aging Services of Georgia

Older Americans Month

Each year, the month of May is proclaimed Older Americans Month throughout the nation. The Administration on Aging develops a theme for Older Americans Month and disseminates the theme to the entire aging network. Each year the President signs a proclamation regarding Older Americans Month in celebration of the achievements and contributions of the nation's older persons.
Aging Services of Georgia salutes over 4000 staff working every day in member organizations throughout the state of Georgia.  We honor and thank you for your commitment and dedication as you serve older Georgians!
 

How Are You Celebrating AAHSA Homecoming Week?
From May 25-29, members across the country will celebrate AAHSA's second annual Homecoming Week. Now that you've made the decision to join in on the celebration, we want to hear from you! Register your event with us today.  AAHSA 2nd Annual Homecoming Events

Phase II of Calls to Congress – EVERYONE NEEDED to Respond

At the recent AAHSA Legislative conference in DC, 7 visits were made to Georgia members of Congress to ask that Long Term Services and Supports (new language) be included in national health care reform – this is critical.
 
The next national contact/call day is scheduled for Wednesday, May 13.  We encourage everyone to once again rally your board, staff, residents, relatives and neighbors to make calls.  The number, which will go live at 8 a.m. Eastern Time, is (800) 687-3813.  Our friends from the Alzheimer’s Association, National Council on Aging and other aging and disability groups will also be participating. 

Below is a script of what you can say when you call.  The letters are already prepared for you to email your representatives through Contact Congress.

Sample Phone Script
"Hello, I’m calling to ask the senator to help make sure long-term services and supports are part of health care reform. Including long-term services and supports in health care reform will achieve greater efficiency, promote personal responsibility and sustain our safety net programs like Medicaid. We need a national solution for this national problem. I thank the senator in advance for demonstrating his leadership. We must make it affordable to care. Thank you."

Salary Survey 2009 – Results Are Ready and Available

Thanks to each of you who participated in the 2009 Aging Services of GA Salary/Benefits Survey.  Your time and commitment to making this a success is greatly appreciated.  Please use the same User ID and Password that you used to key your data.  If you cannot locate your User Name or Password, please email Jacque and Susan to reset your account.  Follow the steps below for easy access:

1.  Logging into https://survey.gahsa.org

2.  Click the "Reports" radio button in the center of the Salary Survey website main page.

3.  Customize the report by modifying the dropdown box selections.

4.  Click the "Generate Report" button to view the report.

Note: The report will open in a popup window.  You'll have to disable all popup blocking software in order to see the report window. See the next article below for more about pop-up unblocking.

For those who did not participate, but have an interest in receiving the results--you may purchase the data for $350 by emailing Jacque a request.

Problems Connecting to FOR MEMBERS on our Web Site?

Most of the time this is because you have a pop-up blocker working or your security is set at too high a level. Here are some things to try:

• From the Internet Explorer Menu, select Tools / Pop-Up Blocker. Then select Turn Off Pop-Up Blocker
• Then try Tools / Internet Options. Click on the Security tab. Add www.agingservicesga.org as a Trusted Site.
• On the same Security tab select Custom Level and scroll down to the Use-Pop-up Blocker section and select Disable.

If you still have problems getting in, please call Barry Lastinger at 404-872-9191 ext. 14.

Aging Services of Georgia Spring Luncheon May 19th –

TRUST:  One thing that changes everything! This workshop is based on the book, The Speed of Trust, by Stephen M.R. Covey, provides timely information significant for staff in any position in an organization. Learn how trust is tied to everything we do. The greatest trust-building key is “results”. Results build brand loyalty and inspire a winning culture in your organization.

Attendees will be presented a road map to establish trust on every level, build character and competence, enhance credibility, and create leadership that inspires confidence. The Speed of Trust, begins within each of us personally, continues into our relationships, expands into our organizations, and extends into our marketplace. Brochure and Registration Form

A new forum for Chaplains will begin at the May 19th luncheon.  Please encourage your chaplains to attend and begin networking at the meeting. 

New Listserv Offers Outlet for Pastoral Care Professionals

AAHSA recently developed a new listserv for chaplains and other pastoral care professionals. This listserv is designed as a forum where members can share ideas, ask questions and find resources to serve their organization's unique spiritual care and service needs. Click here to join today.

New Activity Professionals Forum

Our New Activity Professionals Forum has their first symposium on May 12th:  Brochure & Registration

Association Public Policy committee CALL FOR PARTICIPATION

The committee will regroup and continue working Tuesday, May 26, 10am to noon at the association office.  If you are outside the metro-Atlanta area, you can call into the meetings.  This committee is for provider members of the association.  Please contact Walter Coffey if you would like to join this committee.

Institute Professional Development/Education Committee CALL FOR PARTICIPATION

This committee will regroup and continue working Tuesday, June 16 from 11:30 until 2:00 at the association office.  Lunch will be provided. If you are outside the metro-Atlanta area, you can call into the meetings.  This committee is for provider members of the association.  Please contact Jacque Thornton if you would like to join this committee.

Connecting to Our Members throughout Georgia
Free Webinars for Members

Aging Services of Georgia is now providing webinars consisting of important topics for our members to access throughout the state.  Watch for registration information listed at current events.  Our first webinar, Bus Safety & Compliance provided important information that you need to know (thanks to Michael Nischan, from The McCart Group, for presenting this material.  If you miss a webinar, you can still see them via the Members Home Page, after you enter the Members Only section of the web site.

The May Webinar (complimentary for members) will be presented May 14th at 2 pm entitled Financial Statements 101:  This program will help non-finance professionals understand the basics of financial analysis in a simple, non-threatening manner. The presenters are John Murphy, Cornerstone Senior Living and Mario McKenzie, LarsonAllen. Click here for more information and online registration.

New Joint (Provider) Members:

The Habitat Co. – Corp. Office
2610 MLK Jr., Dr. SW
Atlanta, GA 30311
Janel Greene, Director of Resident Services
Joyce Gardner, Vice President

Hightower Manor / The Habitat Co.
Pattie Webb, Property Manager
Janice Hall, Asst. Manager
Cheryl Hood, Service Coordinator
Lawrence McCoy, Maintenance Supv.
404-699-4131 fax 404-699-4114

Barge Road /The Habitat Co.
Cynthia Nelson, Property Manager
Ramona Fleming, Asst. Property Manager
Tonya Carter, Service Coordinator
James Combs, Maintenance Supv.
(404)346-5100 fax: 404-346-5102

Marietta Road / The Habitat Co.
Position Vacant, Property Manager
Twanda Wesley, Asst. Manager
Cheryl Hood, Interim Service Coordinator
O’Quinn Montgomery, Maintenance Supv.
404-609-7805 fax: 404-609-7804

Juniper & 10th /The Habitat Co.
Shervetta Stewart, Property Manager
Shawn Shaw, Asst. Manager
Angela Thompson, Service Coordinator
Samuel Hawk, Maintenance Supervisor
404-249-1320 fax: 404-249-6593

New Associate Members:

Interim Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc.
Doug Lindley
6100 Lake Forrest Drive
#485
Atlanta, GA  30328
404-843-2708
404-843-1361
dlindley@interimhealthcare.com

Safe Haven At Lenox Park (PCH – 6 units)
Arkadiy Yakubov, Director
1137 Lynmoor Drive
Atlanta, GA 30319
www.safehavenpch.com

Grosvenor Quality Care (PCH)
Beverly Chin
1222 S. Stone Mountain Lithonia Rd.
Lithonia, GA 30058
b.chin@bellsouth.net
770-235-6757 (C)
770-469-7800 (O)
770-469-7825 (F)

Altrus Assisted Living
(PCH & Management Co.)
Jessie L. Petrea, CEO
P.O.Box 13844
Savannah, GA 31416
JPetrea@altrus.us  
912-354-6011 or 800-354-6011
Judy Ponder, PCH Coordinator
912-661-0942
jponder@altrus.us

Mountain View Personal Care Home
Karen Dobson, Executive Dir./Administrator
3675 Kensington Road
Decatur, GA  30032
info@mountainviewpch.org
(404) 508-7593   fax: (404) 508-7620

ASLANcreative
Renee Brooks
renee.brooks@me.com
46 Tiverton Lane
Ashville, NC 28803
800-429-9701

Federal Medical Supply, Inc. Mike Bowen
Mbowen@fedmedex.com
3316 Perkins Road
Augusta, GA 30906
706-833-9057

Functional Pathways
Brad Carter
bcarter@fprehab.com
614 Mabry Hood Road
Suite 301
Knoxville, TN 37932
865-531-2204

Gulf South Medical
Jason Wommack
jwommack@gsms.com
350 Folk Stone Cr.
Augusta, GA 30907
706-816-1159

Invacare Continuing Care
Tim Johnson
tjohnson@invacare.com
253 Hillandale Ave.
Harrisonburgh, VA 22801
540-908-0249

LarsonAllen, LLP
Deborah Reese
dreese@larsonallen.com
101 N. Tryon St., Suite 1000
Charlotte, NC 28246
704-998-5204

General Notes of Interest

FREE Pandemic Toolkit

Our Kansas association, has a FREE Pandemic Toolkit available with comprehensive information, policies, etc. to aide in preparation for these type of events - see at www.kahsa.org.

Computers Increase Brain Power in Seniors

According to a study conducted by members of the American Geriatric Society, seniors aged 65 and older that use computers have increased cognitive and memory functionality. The results of memory and attention tests suggested that those who regularly used computers scored similarly to those who were 10 years their junior and who have little or no computer interaction. Researchers also claim that computers can
aid the elderly by reducing stress, distraction from age-related aches and pains and sharpened focus. The full findings of the study will be published in the April 2009 issue of the Journal of the AGS.
Source: (McKnight’s 3/30)

Everybody Is 'Cane Fu' Fighting At Senior Centers, So Watch Out

Older People Get Healthful Exercise And Learn to Wield a Ready Weapon. Check it out at the Canemasters website and in this article

GMCF Needs You to Tell Your Story

GMCF, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Georgia, needs YOU to tell your story! There have been many changes and initiatives that you have embraced that have made the lives of your residents and staff much more rewarding. From small changes such as sprucing up an employee lounge, to large system-wide changes that have improved pressure ulcer care, each change has benefited your nursing home. But just think about what your success can do when it’s multiplied! Other nursing homes around the country want to hear about your successes. They want to hear about the changes you‘ve made – both small and large – so that they can learn from your success and implement similar changes. Click here to read a nursing home success story that has been promoted nationally on www.MedQIC.org … then picture your story there! Send your stories via email, fax or phone to GMCF so we can get the word out to all.  We will call you for the details to make a story of interest to all. Thanks for making this past 3 years of work memorable!

Fax: 678-527-3030 Phone 678-527-3675 or email to lkluge@gmcf.org

Swine Flu Update

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has issued a nationwide public health emergency declaration in response to recent human infections with newly discovered swine influenza A (swine flu) virus.   Swine flu viruses do not normally infect humans; however, human infections with swine flu do occur, and cases of human-to-human spread of swine flu viruses have been documented.  Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork products.  A brochure on the swine flu is attached.  Also attached is a flyer on preventative measures to take and warning signs for adults.

Detailed information on the Swine flu can be found on the CDC website.

The Department has also provided a trifold brochure and a flyer.

Attorneys General Join Fight To Stop Medicare Plans' Fail-First Policy

Attorneys General  (AG) from 16 states are putting pressure on CMS to strengthen language in its 2010 call letter that could end a policy allowing Medicare drug plans to force certain beneficiaries to fail on a generic off-label drug before the on-label brand name drug is covered.

The pharmaceutical industry is calling for the same policy change, pharmaceutical sources told /Inside CMS/ in February (see /Inside CMS/, Feb. 5).  A source representing the pharmaceutical industry told /Inside CMS/ that the upcoming decision from President Barack Obama's administration on this issue “will give a window into where Obama health policy is heading.” Click here for full article

Public Policy Update

2009 GENERAL ASSEMBLY WRAP-UP

The 2009 Georgia General Assembly began Monday January 12 amid uncertainty due to the strong economic downturn and the impending change of administration at the federal level.  The session was dominated by discussion of the state budget, which experienced a deficit that increased from the $2 billion mark to $2.5 billion during the General Assembly session. Ultimately the General Assembly passed an FY ’10 budget which accepted most of the governor’s recommendations for a 10% cut in funding of all state agencies.

The pace of the session was slow with fewer bills than usual being introduced for most of the session. Notable exceptions were passage of both a property tax assessment freeze, passage of a bill allowing Georgia Power Company to charge consumers in advance of construction of a new nuclear power plant, and unsuccessful consideration of new funding for transportation purposes. The 2009 Georgia General Assembly adjourned “sine die” at midnight Friday April 3.  It is generally accepted that legislators completed an unproductive session, in part because they were forced to deal with huge budget deficits in response to the current recession.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

Rep. Mike Jacobs, a member of the House Insurance committee, introduced Aging Services of Georgia’s legislation to update the Georgia law regulating CCRCs.  HB 843 was co-sponsored by Rep. Tom Knox, chairman of the committee.  Aging Services of Georgia expects to discuss and refine the legislation over the interim between General Assembly sessions.  HB 843 contains the main features mentioned in past articles:

•  Provision of additional information to prospective residents and residents, such as:
  • Business background of the owner(s) and principal investors of the CCRC;
  • Experience in providing senior services; and
  • Criminal background
• Provision of the information “up front” (at or before the time of contracting), rather than just in the annual report; and
• New provisions to ensure the financial viability (in lieu of posting of a bond in the minimum of $10,000) of the CCRC such as maintenance of operating reserves.

State Budget

In light of the deepening recession, the 2009 General Assembly was preoccupied with balancing a budget with the above-noted deficit which grew from $2 billion to $2.5 billion during the session.  While the state received $1.7 billion in federal Medicaid and stimulus funds in other areas, including Older Americans funds, these funds only partially alleviated some of the projected shortages in the FY ’10 budget.  In addition, the governor further reduced his previous revenue estimate for FY ’10, further exacerbating shortages in funding for program services

Some of the results of interest are shown below.

• Elimination of 235 persons from the Community Care Services Program (CCSP) ($664,307).  Also, $11.4 million in state funds were cut and replaced by federal stimulus dollars.  These resources will need to be restored when the federal funds are no longer available.
• Replacement of state “Meals on Wheels” funds ($1.045 million) with federal stimulus dollars.  Again, as is the case above, these resources will be lost if not eventually restored.
• Reduction in non-Medicaid Home and Community Based Services ($2.87 million)  
• Elimination of public guardianship ($327,880)
• Reductions in Alzheimer’s respite services ($190,281) and elimination of training ($96,000)
• Postponement of adult day center licensing
• Reduction of $146,829 in the Adult Protective Services (APS) program, eliminating three to five case manager positions 
• Elimination and reductions in Wellness programs (almost $1 million)

Reorganization of Human and Social Services

HB 228, the governor’s legislation to reorganize state government in the delivery of human services was approved by the 2009 General Assembly. The basics of HB 228 are:

• Retention of the Department of Community Health (including Medicaid) with the addition of the DHR Division of Public Health and Office of Regulatory Services;
• Creation of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DD), to include mental health, substance abuse, and DD; and
• Establishment of a Department of Human Services, to contain the remaining DHR services (Aging, Family and Children Services, and Child Support).

Other Legislation

Some other bills of interest include:

HB 457 (Peake) was introduced to provide prosecutors another option to protect seniors from abuse.  The bill revises the definition of the term "disabled adult" to include persons in long-term care facilities with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia and creates a new felony to act with specific intent to abuse, neglect, or exploit disabled persons.  HB 457 also exempts owners, administrators, officers and board members of long-term care facilities from criminal liability.  PASSED

HB 69 (Jerguson), as introduced, eliminated the necessity to have a second physician (in addition to the attending doctor) review a “Do Not Resuscitate” order sign by a patient.  In response to concerns from advocates for senior and persons with disabilities, the bill was amended to eliminate the second doctor only for Advance Directives or Health Care Power of Attorney.  PASSED

SB 22 (Stoner) establishes the Georgia Coordinating Council for Rural and Human Services Transportation to achieve efficiencies and increase human services transportation in rural and urban parts of the state.  The Council would have appointees from the Department of Human Resources, Transportation, Education, and Community Health DID NOT PASS, ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION NEXT YEAR

Business Connection
Updates from our Associate Members

Diabetes Self Management

Diabetes Self Management Education (DSME) allows patients to control their disease by working with their health care provider. GMCF will train nurses, Certified Diabetes Educators (CDEs), dietitians, and Community Health Workers (CHWs) for these classes, which will be given to eligible African-American and Hispanic Medicare beneficiaries. The link below includes the class schedule.   

Anne Hernandez, LCSW;  Manager, Patient Safety;  GMCF - Georgia's Medicare QIO
(678) 527-3444   ahernandez@gmcf.org

How to Weather the Recession as a Not-for-Profit

This white paper from AAHSA Premier Sponsor LarsonAllen LLP explains how to meet the economy’s challenges head on by considering restructuring, reorganizing, and engaging with others. There is also an
emphasis on communicating with key stakeholders. Download   the white paper and see the other useful
information in the AAHSA Economy Forum.  

From Pfizer

No prescription coverage? Need Pfizer medicine? One call fits all®

Tell your clients/residents to call 1-866-706-2400 or visit www.PfizerHelpfulAnswers.com for help getting Pfizer medicines.

Many patients without prescription coverage have difficulty paying for their medicines and don’t know where to get help. That’s why we created Pfizer Helpful Answers®:

• We have many programs to help patients save on Pfizer medicines, no matter their age or income
• No fees or costs to apply

For professions, see the helpful answers guide for more information by clicking here. Consumers can go to www.PfizerHelpfulAnswers.com

From THW Designs

A white paper entitled Social Confluence: The Key to Successful Socialization and Survival -- click here

Georgia Institute on Aging News

Support the Institute by Shopping Amazon

Next time you shop Amazon for books and other items, use the link available on the Institute's home page. When you enter Amazon through this link, you are financially supporting the Institute at no additional cost to you. Tell your friends and colleagues. You can try it now by clicking below.

Spring 2009 Seasonal Campaign– TravelConnectionGA.org
Click here for details

Consider turning your vacation into donations for the Georgia Institute on Aging by booking your travel through our link: www.TravelConnectionGA.org (powered by Travelocity).  Take a look and give it a try, while making a difference!

Last Month's Events

April 23
Our First Webinar

The topic was Bus Compliance and Safety ...the nuts and bolts. The webinar was held Thursday Morning, April 23. This was the first of many webinars which will be held in months to come.

Michael Nischan did a great job presenting the program. 15 members joined by way of the internet and their telephone.

A recording was made. You can replay it by going to this site.

April 29
Culture Change Workshop
Tales of Transformation

Linda Kluge from Georgia Medical Care Foundation and Kim McRae, Culture Change Network of Georgia presented a full day of information about Culture Change and person-centered care. The participants learned how to create an environment which offers all the comforts of home: privacy, choice, autonomy, a sense of well-being, and pleasures in daily living.

A Tale of Transformation: Four Stages To Tell The Story focuses on the important work of Leslie A. Grant, PhD of the University of Minnesota and LaVrene Norton, MSW of Action Pact, Inc. Their study, “A Stage Model of Culture Change in Nursing Facilities” was developed into a DVD and a workbook which are available at the Pioneer Network website.

April 30
Assisted Living Symposium
Exemplars of Excellence

The Center for Excellence in Assisted Living’s (CEAL) managing director, Karen Love, provided an update on national assisted living policy efforts that are currently underway. Research findings on medication administration in assisted living from a unique research collaboration between CEAL and the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill was presented.

Vickie Flynn brought the participants up-to-date on the Georgia Assisted Living regulations and encouraged participation in Georgia's Best Practices Program.

Information about Culture Change in an assisted living environment was presented in the afternoon by Ms. Love and Kim McRae, Culture Change consultant and coordinator of the Culture Change Network of
Georgia.

Upcoming Events

May 12, 2009
First Annual Activity Professionals Symposium

May 14
Finance 101 Webinar

May 19, 2008 SAVE THE DATE
Spring Quarterly Lunch and Learn
Atlanta Technical College

Afternoon professional concurrent forums (details to follow)
Sponsor: Senior TV

May 21, 2009 SAVE THE DATE
HIPPA Workshop
OSHA Workshop

May 22
Center for Positive Aging Board of Directors Meeting

May 26
Aging Services of Georgia Public Policy Committee Meeeting

June 10, 2009 (Part I) SAVE THE DATE
June 17, 2009 (Part II) SAVE THE DATE
Creating Home Webinar Series

The Culture Change Network of Georgia
Creating Home: The New Quality of Life Revisions to LTC Surveyor Guidance -- A Webinar Series for AAHSA Members on June 10 and 17

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently issued a new survey and certification letter that revises guidance to surveyors for several requirements related to quality of life and environment. As a result, surveys after June 17, 2009 will be conducted with a sharpened focus on elements of quality of life. These revisions were developed from last year's symposium on person-centered living environments, co-sponsored by CMS and Pioneer Network.

FREE Viewing at the association office June 10 and 17, noon to 1:30pm. Bring your lunch – we will provide drinks and desserts. Please register if you would like to attend. Flyer and Registration Form

June 16
Georgia Institute on Aging Professional/Educational Development Committee Meeting
11:30 am - 2 pm
Aging Services of Georgia Offices

August 26-27 SAVE THE DATE
Annual Service Coordinator Conference

August 26-27 SAVE THE DATE
Nursing Leadership Conference

September 16 SAVE THE DATE
Summer Luncheon and Professional Forums

Topic: Creativity on Demand (What's your organization's report card on innovation) presented by Harry Varis, KSU and Jim McDonald, KSU

October 1 SAVE THE DATE
CCRS Symposium

October 1
Leadership Summit

Back by popular demand -- Clint Maun

September 21-25, 2009.  SAVE THE DATE
Aging Services of Georgia will host the 2009 Fall Certified Aging Services Professional (CASP) Institute in Atlanta

This is the old RHP program – a national professional certification program for aging services.  We will be working through the Georgia Institute on Aging and our Georgia-Based business members to provide scholarships for this training – watch for details!

September 26 SAVE THE DATE
Las Vegas Night
Helene Mills Multi-purpose Senior Center

Prepare for a sensational networking event with your colleagues as we embark upon our first Las Vegas Night benefit fundraiser (all proceeds to fund the Georgia Institute on Aging educational events and scholarship program).

The center will be transformed with a chasing lighted archway for you, your friends and colleagues to come and play all the traditional games from your favorite Casino.  All this is in an effort to make a difference for the Georgia Institute on Aging future programming.   The prizes are going to be fantastic and we will host our Annual Silent Auction for all those that prefer watching the games being played.  Tickets for the evening affair includes:  chips to play games, tapas & spirits, and entry to the silent auction—all for only $25 per person.

This is a great way to treat your staff to a nice evening affair and to build your professional network.  In addition, you will make a difference in the advancement of quality care for older Georgians by ensuring the delivery of quality education for professional and paraprofessionals in the field of aging.   For information about tickets and sponsoring a game table for the event, please phone Jacque Thornton at 404-872-9191 ext. 19 or jthornton@agingservicesga.org.

Hope to see everyone there!!!

October 15 SAVE THE DATE
2nd Annual Culture Change Summit

Center for Positive Aging

Welcome New Staff Members

The Center welcomes Karuna Sharma, graduate student from Georgia State University who will be helping develop materials relating to the expansion of the Center.

Also, we welcome Mary Harris, volunteer, who will be helping with provider data and other projects for the new Center Web Site.

CPA Website

As you know, the Center is the new consumer arm of the association.  The website's home page is now live and new sections will be complete over the next several months. Soon, members will receive more information regarding participation in the Center – watch for details.

 When Georgians sort through the maze of services available to aging persons, who can they trust to help find quality providers and other resources?  The Center for Positive Aging has been there for Atlanta seniors, their families and caregivers for over 25 years. Now, as the consumer arm of Aging Service of Georgia, the Center will be the trusted source for these services for aging persons and their families throughout Georgia.

 This unique position expands the mission of Aging Services of Georgia by educating and connecting consumers with key providers of aging services in Georgia. The board and staff are making great progress in the plan for “connecting people to the resources they need” state-wide.  A key part of this plan is revamping the Center’s website that will provide 24/7 access to information that will help consumers understand the types of services available, and locate the quality providers in their communities. more

GA vs US on Long Term Care

Some interesting information comparing Georgia with the entire country in terms of family caregiver support. Click here.

Culture Change Network of Georgia

Tale of Transformation: Four Stages To Tell The Story
Discount Price on DVD and Workbook still available

A Tale of Transformation: Four Stages To Tell The Story focuses on the important work of Leslie A. Grant, PhD of the University of Minnesota and LaVrene Norton, MSW of Action Pact, Inc. Their study, “A Stage Model of Culture Change in Nursing Facilities” was developed into a DVD and a workbook. LaVrene, an early pioneer in the Culture Change movement, has a strong reputation in organizational dynamics and a deep understanding of how nursing homes function, the problems that they face, and the opportunities they have for change. The workshop will explore their work and portions of the DVD will be shown.

This workbook and DVD, is filled with images, learning circles, and stories of culture change that will guide you whether you're at the earliest stage (institutional) or have already transformed your facility and energized your staff in the transformational and neighborhood stages, or completely renovated into the Household Model. The workbook includes exercises, team activities specific to each stage. The work was funded by the Commonwealth Fund, and commissioned by AHQF to support the work of QIOs around the country who have the special challenge of working with facilities at various stages of culture change.

To support the Culture Change Network of Georgia and this workshop, the Pioneer Network is offering the package to us for $80.00 + free shipping.  You can make checks to Georgia Institute on Aging.

Organizational/
Board Development

AAHSA has many resources to support your organization.

Social Accountability is key for organizations to accountable for community benefit and to demonstrate not-for-profit status.

See guides that offer ideas and insights you can use for your organization's social accountability program.

News Throughout the Continuum

Affordable Housing  

Report Released on HUD’s Energy Action Plan

A recent report, Implementing HUD’s Energy Strategy, describes the steps the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has taken since 2006 to address rising energy costs in five million federally assisted housing units throughout the country.

FREE Senior Housing Booklet Available to Consumers

A FREE 12-page booklet Senior Housing: What You Need to Know is now available. Written for seniors, their families, friends and advocates, the booklet outlines factors everyone should consider when thinking about a move into senior housing. The booklet is generously sponsored by the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration and the Center for Medicare Set-Aside Administration.
The companion to this educational booklet is the NFCA Senior Housing Locater, with decision-support tools including more than 60,000 listings of senior housing communities, a home health directory with quality indicators, and resources to help family caregivers simplify the process.

HUD Publishes New General Guidance for Upcoming NOFA Submissions

On April 16, 2009, HUD published in the Federal Register revised general guidance for the upcoming NOFAs. It states that each program NOFA will provide its own submission requirements, although dates for those NOFAs are not yet available. Click here for more information.  

Manager Satisfaction with Service Coordinator Program

In December of 2008, HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research published a report, the MultifamilyProperty Managers' Satisfaction with Service Coordination, which evaluated the satisfaction among property managers with the provision of service coordination in HUD assisted housing. Overall, the study found that property managers were highly satisfied with the service coordinator program and strongly believe that service coordination improves residents' quality of life. 

Smoking in Apartments

AAHSA continues to hear about the various positions that certain U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) field offices, or sometimes just individuals at a particular office, take regarding smoking policies. While HUD is not officially supposed to take a position for or against any smoking policy you may elect to pursue, the reality is often quite different. If you can get local HUD office support for the level you choose to implement, that is great. Though you are not required to actually get their approval, it can sometimes come down to a choice about how much you are willing to push for the end result you desire. We encourage those considering smoke free policies to continue to share experiences and to review a fact sheet on the issue.

Assisted Living

Symposium

Public Policy, Research and Practice Standards of Excellence were presented at the recent Assisted Living Symposium.  We heard about research showing the success of Med Techs in Assisted Living and discussed Culture Change in an assisted living environment. Information and materials from the symposium are posted in the Assisted Living section of For Members.

Home and Community Based Services
(Adult Day Services, Hospice, Home Health)

Wall Street Journal Looks at Adult Day Care in America

In January, the Wall Street Journal ran an article about the services provided by the nearly 3,500 adult day care centers in the U. S. today. It explores how adult day care, an industry that began in church basements with bingo and bag lunches, is becoming an increasingly important player in the burgeoning business of elder care.

Join the Home Health Listserv

You are invited to join a forum intended for home health agencies facilitating member-to-member questions and discussions and to disseminate information on Medicare policy and regulations. Click here for more information.

Public Policies to Improve Access, Costs, and Quality

This report, from Center for Personal Assistance and authored by researchers at the University of California San Francisco, examines the issues of access, cost, and quality for Medicaid HCBS programs. The trends in state Medicaid HCBS programs, target groups, participants, and expenditures are summarized. The paper shows the progress in providing Medicaid HCBS but also identifies many current problems and policies. Inequities in access to services and limited funds result in unmet needs for HCBS. View Report.

Nursing Care

What's New

Watch for ongoing information relating to CMS updates, H1N1 flu, etc. from AAHSA.  See upcoming webinar regarding interpretive guidelines relating to culture change -- Creating Home: The New Quality of Life Revisions to LTC Surveyor Guidance -- A Webinar Series for AAHSA Members on June 10 and 17. You can watch this series for free by joining other members in the association office. For details, click here.

Advancing Excellence Issue #9 May, 2009

This issue of the newsletter is available at For Members / Nursing Care or click here. This issue tells that the Advancing Excellence Campaign goals will get a "refresh" in the fall.  GMCF will share more with us as they learn more at fall training sessions.  GMCF has volunteered to test/pilot the updated info on the staff turnover goal - and would like volunteers to help us to improve the website access and tracking tools.  If you would like to volunteer OR would like more information, contact Linda I. Kluge, Director, QIO, 1-800-982-0411  Ext. 3675 (Direct Line - 678-527-3675).

CCRC

Symposium

2009 CCRC Symposium October 1st in Atlanta. Save the date.  Speakers to include Clint Maun, Steve Maag (CCRC Director/AAHSA).

AGING SERVICES VACANCY REPORT

Please assist your colleagues by sharing this information when you receive calls from consumers you cannot serve. 

Career Opportunities

Magnolia Manor, Buena Vista, GA

Administrator

Peachtree Hills Place, Buckhead and Park Springs, Stone Mountain

CCRC Residency and Sales Counselor's

Riverview Health and Rehabilitation, Savannah

Chief Financial Officer

Brandon Wilde, Evans, GA

Director of Nursing

MobilexUSA

Sales Representative

A.G. Rhodes Home

Director of Nursing
Admissions Manager

Tech Notes from TechBridge

AAHSA Information

News from Melissa Sharp,
Vice President, Southeast Region, AAHSA

Please feel free to contact me with your questions or concerns at (202) 508-9456 or by e-mail at msharp@aahsa.org.

Leadership AAHSA

Leadership AAHSA is a year-long leadership development program established to improve the skills of emerging aging services leaders and address the shortage of potential leaders nationwide. The application deadline for our 2010 class is May 15, 2009.
Learn more.

AAHSA Members Take to the Hill

At last week’s Future of Aging Services Conference, more than 300 AAHSA members visited Capitol Hill to lobby their legislators on issues affecting aging services organizations and the people they serve. One major issue was making long-term services and supports a part health care reform. Congratulations on this outstanding turnout, especially to new participants. We've posted a sampling of photographs from those visits. If you weren't able to come to Washington, you still have an important role to play in our advocacy efforts. Please Contact Congress and urge them to help us make it affordable to care. Contact: Louise Maus, (202) 508-9487.

Bring Your Social Accountability Program Home

Homecoming events are an opportunity to let the community at large know they "make a difference in the quality of life for many people across the country," says Dr. Laverne Joseph, CEO of Retirement Housing Foundation, in a recent video interview. Visit AAHSA Homecoming Week to get ideas and let us know what you are planning to do. Contact: Maggie Flowers, (202) 508-9421.

AAHSA Member Benefit Spotlight:  Nursing Home Data You Can Use

AAHSA knows that operations data, including information on staffing levels, inspection results, quality indicators, quality measures, and other statistics can be useful to you in maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of your own operations. We track and analyze this data yearly and quarterly, using publicly available information from CMS. Our reports are tailored to providers of not-for-profit long-term services and supports. Learn more.