Laura Berman singing the Conference Theme Song, Changing Lives

In this Issue

Inside Your Association -- Aging Services of Georgia

General Notes of Interest

Public Policy Update

Business Connection
Updates from Our Associate Members

GIA 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

Changing Lives, our 2009 Annual Conference -- Another Huge Success

Thanks to the sponsors and exhibitors who helped make our 2009 a success!

2009 Annual Awards

The 2009 Annual Awards were presented at the conference. 

The FIRST ANNUAL Caring Heart Award was awarded this year to Barbara Willis, Housekeeping Director, Campbell-Stone Sandy Springs.  This new award recognizes the achievements of frontline staff and direct care employees, whose caring spirit have made significant impact upon the lives of older adults, while working for an Aging Services of Georgia member organization. 

• Individuals who are employees of organizations that are Aging Services of Georgia members were eligible. 
• Nominee has made a significant and positive difference in the life of senior residents/clients.
• The attributes of the nominee has enhanced the organization’s commitment to quality.
• Nominee has been an inspiration to their peers/co-workers regarding work ethic and has developed strong relationships with residents, clients and families.

Congratulations to the following award winners for 2009:   

Volunteer of the Year Esther Ann Comer Canterbury Court, Atlanta
Trustee of the Year Tom Dozier Brandon Wilde, Evans
Caring Heart Barbara Willis Campbell-Stone, Sandy Springs
Distinguished Service Sandra Atwater-Fellows Campbell-Stone, Buckhead
Award of Honor Cliff Pepper Campbell-Stone, Inc.

New Associate Members:

One Georgia Bank  (Metro Atlanta)
(Specializing in Non-profit Banking & Investing)
Contact: Auta Lopes
Phone: 678-553-8193 or 404-522-2265
Email: auta.lopes@onegeorgiabank.com

ASLANcreative (Asheville, NC 28803)
(Marketing, Sales, and Media relations firm)
Contact: Renee Brooks
Phone: 800-429-9701
Email: renee.brooks@me.com

Functional Pathways (Rehab)
(Knoxville, TN)
Contact: Brad Carter
Phone: 888-531-2204
Email: bcarter@fprehab.com

Invacare Continuing Care (Harrisonburg, VA)
(Office & Home furniture – hospital beds, wheel chairs, bathing equipment)
Contact: Tim Johnson
Phone: 540-908-0249
Email: tjohnson@invacare.com

LarsonAllen (Charlotte, NC)
(Certified Public Accountants, consultants, and advisors)
Contact: Mario McKenzie
Email: mmckenzie@larsonallen.com

Sage Age Mature Strategies
(Comprehensive, full-service strategic marketing, development, creative and consulting firm)
Contact:  Faith Ott, President
Phone: (215) 275-0555
Email:  faith@sageage1.co

United Pharmacy Services
(a division of UHS Pruitt Corp.)
Matthew Annis
1626 Jeurgens Court
Norcross, GA 30093
770-279-6200 (O)
770-925-4619 (F)
Email:  mannis@uhs-pruitt.com

John Q. Bullard Associates, Inc.
(Security/Maintenance/Site Services)
Ryan Doering
1448 Tullie Rd, NE
Atlanta, GA
404-633-2507
Email:  ryand@jqbullard.com

Spartlin-Harrington Insurance Services, Inc.
Tom Robinson
P. O. Box 367
Snellville, GA 30078
770-978-9464
Email:  tomr@shisinc.com

PeopleNet
(Paperless labor tracking system)
Gordon Pettit
7000 Central Parkway; Suite 650
Atlanta, GA 30328
770-551-1774
Gordon.pettit@peoplenet.com

Business Telephone Systems
Rick Purnell
2750 Premier Pkwy.
Duluth, GA 30097
770-635-5000
Email:  rpurnell@bustelsys.com

LaFerney Commercial Roofing, Inc.
Teri LaFerney
2642 Sullivan Gardens Parkway
Kingsport, TN 37660
423.249.4141

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

Perquest Payroll
Alicia Farnum
1074 Mercer St., SE
Atlanta, GA 30316
404-635-1529
aliciafarnum@perquestpay.com
http://www.perquestpay.com

Providence Foot & Ankle Centers, P.C.
Dr. Adrienne Atkinson-Sneed
939 Thornton Road
Lithia Springs, GA 30122
770-745-4224
FAX:  770-745-4228
Atkinson@twohealthyfeet.com

New Provider Members

Farrfield Manor
(Retirement Housing Foundation Property)
419 Farr Road
Columbus, GA 31907
706-687-1842 (O)
706-687-1865 (F)

Safe Haven at Lenox Park (PCH)
Alla Yakubov, Administrator
1137 Lynmoor Dr.
Atlanta, GA 30319
404-235-7733
FAX:  404.235.4050
safehavenpch@gmail.com
www.safehavenpch.com

The Homeplace Adult Daycare
Claire Russell
P. O. Box 565
Thomson, GA 30824
706-597-1890
Email:  Familycare565@aol.com

Best Care, Inc. (Adult Day Services)
Edna Walthour
P.O. Box 1511
Hinesville, GA  30310
(912) 368-5477

Complimentary Webinars Begin in April

The Georgia Institute on Aging, the education division of the association is subscribing to ReadyTalk, to begin providing webinars and audio conferences to provider members.  We know many times it is difficult for staff to leave for face to face meetings.  There is some information that is easily presented in webinar formats that will benefit and reach members throughout the state. 

Our FIRST complimentary webinar, Bus Compliance and Safety -- The Nuts and Bolts, will be presented at 10:00am, April 23rd.  Michael Nischan, from the McCart Group, is presenting. Click here for more information and a registration form.

Aging Services Resource Guide and Directory Advertising

Advertising opportunities are now available in the annual Aging Services Resource Guide and Directory. As an advertiser, you are able to target nursing homes, retired living communities and assisted-living facilities, along with consumers, service/product suppliers and discharge planning departments across the state. This resource is used extensively throughout the year by members to stay informed of association information and as a comprehensive buyers' guide for the products and services they use most often. Realizing advertiser support makes this directory possible, they recognize the importance of doing business with companies that support their association.

For advertising opportunities, contact Yoruba Haney with Naylor, LLC at (800) 796-2638, or visit here.

General Notes of Interest

Social Security Beneficiaries to Receive $250 Payment in May

In May 2009, the U.S. Social Security Administration will distribute a one-time payment of $250 to Social Security and Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries nationwide. The payments are provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. More information is a government flyer.
For Further Information:
Contact Lauren Hawkins, Social Security Administration, at Lauren.Hawkins@ssa.gov or 410-965-8726.

HIPAA Changes in Stimulus Bill

With passage of the $787 billion economic American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, billions of dollars were identified to invest into electronic health records (EHR).  This included provisions for enforcement of HIPAA and stiffer penalties for privacy and security violations and extending HIPAA security provisions to business associates (BAs) as they apply to providers.

The act includes provisions requiring BAs to implement security policies and training; physical security safeguards (e.g., door locks); and, technical security safeguards (e.g., computer encryption and password protection). The bill also codifies the definitions of several key privacy and security terms. Penalties for privacy breaches range from $100 to $50,000 per violation, depending on whether the facility could have reasonably avoided the breach, and gives states’ attorney generals the power to seek civil damages and attorney fees for breaches.

An additional significant change is the requirement that a breach of personal health information security must be reported to each individual breached; if 500 or more individuals are impacted by a breach, a covered entity must report the breach to the federal government and to major area media outlets. The HIPAA provisions in the stimulus act fall under the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act.

NOTE: There will be a HIPAA workshop on May 21st at the association office – watch for details.

Digital TV Transition Update

On June 12, 2009, all full-power broadcast stations will stop broadcasting in analog format and switch only to digital format. Individuals with older analog television sets that do not have cable or satellite television service will need to either purchase a converter box, purchase a newer digital television set or subscribe to a cable or satellite television service. 

Keeping Seniors Connected During the DTV Transition

Older Adults in the Atlanta Region who decide to install a converter box, but are unable to perform the task by themselves or with the help of family or friends are encouraged to call Senior Connections, Inc. at (770) 455-7602 ext 110 and they will assist with obtaining and installing the converter box. Seniors that are unsure whether or not they will need a converter box are also encouraged to call Senior Connections, Inc. at (770) 455-7602 ext 110 and they will assess the need over the phone.

The Atlanta Regional Commission, Area Agency on Aging and Senior Connections Inc., are offering this service through a partnership with the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging and the Keeping Seniors Connected Campaign, which is made possible, in part, by a grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA),  U.S. Department of Commerce

Computer Use Boosts Brain Power for Tech-Savvy Seniors

Whether it's checking e-mail, playing games or downloading music, using computer programs appears to keep the aging mind nimble, suggests new research. Adults aged 65 and older who regularly use computers scored comparably to adults 10 years their junior on memory and attention tests, according to the findings of a study from members of the American Geriatrics Society.

The findings will be published in the April 2009 issue of the Journal of the AGS. In addition to cognitive and memory improvements, steady computer use was found to help maintain or even increase hand-eye coordination among the elderly, researchers say.

Other fringe benefits of computer use, according to the study, include: distraction from age-related aches and pains; reduced stress through use of convenient online services; and sharpened focus. For more information on the study, visit http://www.americangeriatrics.org. (McKnight's online)

Begin Use of New Form I-9

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has revised Form I-9 (the Employment Eligibility Verification form); barring any last-minute postponements, employers should begin using this revised form on Friday, April 3, 2009.
The USCIS has posted a PDF file of the form here. (A convenient feature: employers can type data into fields in the form and then print the document.)  Employers must complete a Form I-9 for each newly hired employee in order to verify his or her identity and authorization to work in the United States.

Employers should keep each employee's I-9 form for the duration of his or her employment; after an employee separates from the organization, the employer should keep the I-9 form for three years after the employee's date of hire or for one year after the date of separation, whichever is later.  Employers should keep I-9 forms separate from personnel files.  (FlashPoint E-News Update, 4-2-09)

CMS issues new guidance for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans

CMS will require Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plan organizations to give beneficiaries more information about what their plans cover, according to a CMS press release issued March 31st.  The agency asked Medicare Advantage organizations to eliminate multiple plans with few distinguishing characteristics to avoid confusing consumers.  Part D plan sponsors will be required to give beneficiaries information about the gap or “doughnut hole” in prescription drug coverage at www.medicare.gov later this fall.

The requirements were described in a CMS call letter issued to organizations that intend to offer Medicare Advantage and Part D plans in 2010. CMS also plans to take steps to protect sicker Medicare Advantage enrollees from discriminatory out-of-pocket charges, according to the press release.  (CLTC Weekly, 4-1-09)

Host an AAHSA Homecoming Week Event

The American Association for Homes and Services for the Aging's 2nd Annual Homecoming Week, featuring the theme "Leading in Quality, Changing Lives," is an opportunity for MoAHA members to invite neighbors to visit communities and share stories with residents. From May 25-29, AAHSA encourages members to shine a spotlight on their organization's commitment to quality service. Click here to get program ideas and to relay plans to AAHSA. For more information, contact Maggie Flowers at AAHSA at 202-508-9421.

Foot Exercises Could Help Reduce Falls in Seniors

Researchers at the University of Porto, Portugal have determined that seniors who perform a basic series of ankle and foot exercises can significantly improve their strength and balance, reducing the risk of accidently falling. The study was conducted by dividing 48 facility-dwelling seniors into a control group and an exercise group. The exercise group performed a series of simple ankle and foot flexing exercises in 15-minute sessions three times a week for six weeks. The results showed a vast improvement in the exercise group's mobility and balance. The control group, however, showed no significant increase in strength, flexibility or mobility. Source:(McKnight’s 3/10) 

Older Adults and Alcohol: A New Easy-to-Read Resource

Is it possible for someone to start having a drinking problem later in life? How do you talk to an older person about his or her drinking? Get answers to these and other questions from "Older Adults and Alcohol: You Can Get Help," a new booklet by the National Institute on Aging and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Using personal stories, checklists, and a question-and-answer format, this colorful 20-page publication is filled with photographs, practical tips, and resources.

Written and designed for older adults and their families, friends, and caregivers, the booklet includes information about alcohol sensitivity and aging, how heavy drinking affects health problems, and how alcohol interacts with medications. It also suggests reasons to stop drinking and lists things people can do if they think they have or someone they know has a drinking problem.

Download or order free copies of "Older Adults and Alcohol: You Can Get Help," by calling the Information Center toll-free at 1-800-222-2225. Bulk quantities (25 or more) may be ordered by visiting.

Medicare Fraud & Abuse Fact Sheet

Revised January 2009, the Medicare Fraud & Abuse Fact Sheet is now available from the Medicare Learning Network (MLN). The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) works with other government agencies and law enforcement organizations to protect the Medicare program from fraud and abuse.

Together with CMS, providers can help identify and prevent fraud and abuse; the first step for providers to protect themselves is to understand the legal definitions and be able to identify fraudulent and abusive practices. This fact sheet provides information on many available resources to help you understand what to do if you suspect or become aware of incidents of potential Medicare fraud or abuse.

Public Policy Update

National Stimulus Package Update

What’s in it for Aging Services Providers?Click here

As a follow up to our conversation this week about the Stimulus Audio Conference, here is the link to listen and here is the PowerPoint presentation.

Please note if you paid to register for this event, AAHSA has refunded your registration fee.

From Tom Bauer, Legislative Counsel
AGING SERVICES OF GEORGIA PUBLIC POLICY REPORT:
2009 GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADJOURNS AT PRESS TIME

The 2009 Georgia General Assembly adjourned “sine die” at midnight Friday April 3.  As a result, this month’s policy report will be rather general, because at press time the details of many issues- including the FY ’10 budget- were unclear.  Nevertheless, 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.   The May Coffey Break will contain a more detailed wrap-up of the 2009 General Assembly. 

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: a redefining of “continuing care”; increased disclosure of information to consumers; and increased measures to ensure the financial integrity of the CCRC during both the construction and operational phases of the CCRC. Link to HB 843    

State Budget

 The FY 10 Budget was approved at 10:00 PM on the 40th night of the General Assembly.  The infusion of federal “stimulus” funds enabled policy-makers to slightly ameliorate the reductions of some senior services.    Next month’s article will contain details.

Reorganization of Human and Social Services

HB 228, the governor’s legislation to reorganize state government in the delivery of human services was also approved on the last day of the General Assembly. The basics of HB 228 (Butler) 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).

The stated purpose of HB 228 is to put in place a framework for a more efficient, effective delivery of services.  Arguably seniors may benefit from aging services having a higher profile in a smaller department; however, in the opinion of this writer such efforts rarely are successful unless increased resources are committed to the services being reorganized.

Link to HB 843:  http://www.legis.ga.gov/legis/2009_10/pdf/hb843.pdf

Business Connection
Updates from our Associate Members

Ziegler’s Six Strategies for Senior Living Providers in Challenging Economic Times

Ziegler Capital Markets, an AAHSA Partner, offers six strategies for senior living providers to help survive tough economic times. Ziegler, one of the nation’s leading underwriter of financing for not-for-profit senior living providers, suggests focusing on maintaining and building financial strength, as this helps ensure that when capital access is needed, your organization is positioned in best possible place. To read Ziegler’s Six Strategies for Senior Living Providers in Challenging Economic Times, click here.

From Gwen Zander
Risk Management Continuum

Cobra Premium Reduction:
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) provides for premium reductions and additional election opportunities for health benefits under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, commonly called COBRA. Eligible individuals pay only 35 percent of their COBRA premiums and the remaining 65 percent is reimbursed to the coverage provider through a tax credit. The premium reduction applies to periods of health coverage beginning on or after February 17, 2009 and lasts for up to nine months. (entire article)

Federal Stimulus – Group Coverage Continuation Subsidy
On February 17, 2009, the President signed the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act, commonly called the Stimulus Plan. The new law provides a subsidy that may reduce, by 65%, the cost of COBRA or Georgia state group health continuation insurance coverage for workers who lose their jobs. (entire article)

From Anne Hernandez, Manager of Patient Safety, GMCF
From Medication Safety

GMCF, Georgia’s Medicare Quality Improvement Organization, is working with physicians related to medication safety for persons receiving Medicare. Older persons are at increased risk for adverse drug events. Some medications should be avoided in persons 65 years or older because they are ineffective, pose an unnecessarily high risk or because a safer alternative is available. Unfortunately, the use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) is still a problem in healthcare today. 
The Institute of Medicine report, To Err is Human, suggested that medication errors result in up to 7,000 deaths yearly in the United States. Patients are often their own “best defense” as it relates to medication errors but often do not understand or possess basic knowledge about the medications they take. In one study, only 15% of the emergency department patients (over age 65) could correctly list all their medications, dosages, frequencies, and indications.

GMCF encourages you to be proactive and take the lead in your health care - ask questions. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has developed a list of patient safety tips for patients including the following related to medications:

• The single most important way you can help to prevent errors is to be an active member of your health care team.
• Make sure that all of your doctors know about everything you are taking. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, and dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbs.
• Make sure your doctor knows about any allergies and adverse reactions you have had to medicines.
• When your doctor writes you a prescription, make sure you can read it.
• Ask for information about your medicines in terms you can understand—both when your medicines are prescribed and when you receive them.
• When you pick up your medicine from the pharmacy, ask: Is this the medicine that my doctor prescribed?
• If you have any questions about the directions on your medicine labels, ask.
• Ask your pharmacist for the best device to measure your liquid medicine. Also, ask questions if you're not sure how to use it.
• Ask for written information about the side effects your medicine could cause.
• Speak up if you have questions or concerns.

Georgia Institute on Aging News

Support the Institute by shopping at AMAZON

Buying anything from the Institute home page will contribute a royalty to the Institute! Simply click on Shop at Amazon.com located below the red navigation bar on the left. You can buy anything Amazon.com sells. Think furniture, cameras, clothing, power tools... even groceries! 

Start your shopping now by selecting from these resources for becoming a “Centered” leader from Michele Holleran PhD, Holleran Consulting

Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal and Delight in Our Busy Lives by Wayne Muller

“Our lack of rest and reflection is not just a personal affliction.  It colors the way we build and sustain community, it dictates the way we respond to suffering and its shapes the ways in which we seek peace and healing in the world. The way problems are solved is frantically, desperately, reactively and badly.” “Do you have the patience to wait till your mud settles and the water is clear? Can you remain unmoving till the right action arises by itself?” “Sabbath mind is a mind that can be still, a mind that can rest in delight. “

The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life by Rosamund Stone Zanderl

The author talks about the practice of “giving an automatic A”, and states: “When you give an A, you find yourself speaking to people not from a place of measuring how they stack up against your standards, but from a place of respect that gives them room to realize themselves.” We need to give both ourselves and others an “A” to be truly centered.

The Power of Now by Eckart Tolle

The author talks about the endless chatter which goes on day to day in our own brains. “The good news is that you can free yourself from your mind and this is the only true liberation. When you listen to that voice, listen to it impartially. That is to say, do not judge. Do not judge or condemn what you hear, for doing so would mean that the same voice has come in again through the back door. You’ll soon realize: there is the voice, and I am listening to it, watching it. This I am realization, this sense of your own presence, is not a thought. It arises from beyond the mind.” What Tolle is saying here is that we need to be self disciplined enough and centered enough to:

• stop judging everything
• stop thinking we alone have all the answers to solve problems
• stop jumping to conclusions too prematurely

In order to be a “centered” leader, we must learn to “be” different. It is the hardest thing we will ever tackle as a leader. We must in essence, transform ourselves before we transform our organizations. Yet, we must get there—and the key is to learn the principles of emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence consists of four parts:

1. self-awareness
2. self-management
3. social awareness
4. relationship management

Being centered involves successfully managing all four. In a day to day practical sense, this means being able to do all of the following skillfully:

Self-awareness:

• being self confident (giving yourself an A)
• awareness of your emotional state
• recognizing how your behavior impacts others
• paying attention to how others influence your emotional state

Self-Management:

• Handling stress well
• Ability to tolerate frustration
• Making changes when the situation requires it
• Making the most out of situations whether good or bad
• Resisting the desire to act or speak when it won’t help the situation

Last Month's Events

Thursday, March 5
3rd Annual Elderly Housing Symposium
Bank of America Conference Center

Thursday, March 5, 12, & 19
Creating Home: Pioneer Network's Small House Webinar Series

Wednesday & Thursday, March 18 & 19
Coaching Supervision for Home Care / Home Health Providers

Tuesday, March 24
Budget Strategies & Planning for Affordable Housing

Monday, March 9 and Monday, March 16
PEARLS Case Conferences

March 30 -- April 1
2009 Annual Conference

Upcoming Events

Saturday, April 18
The Caregiver's Journey
Brochure and Registration Form

The “Caregiver’s Journey Connection” conference is designed for participants to gain a holistic response to issues all caregivers face moment to moment.

Thursday, April 23
Bus Safety and Compliance... The Nuts & Bolts Webinar
Brochure and Registration Form

NOTE:  This event is for provider members of the association only

Wednesday, April 29
Culture Change Workshop: Tales
Brochure and Registration Form

Tales of Transformation (walks through stages of culture change is organizations); 9am – 4pm, association office
NOTE:  This event is for any provider of aging services. 

Thursday, April 30
2009 Assisted Living Symposium: Exemplars of Excellence
Brochure and Registration Form

9am – 4pm, association office
NOTE:  This event is for any provider of aging services interested in promoting excellence in assisted living.  There are member and non-member registration rates.  If you are a business member wishing to sponsor/attend, please contact Jacque Thornton at       jthornton@agingservicesga.org to learn about sponsorship information. 

May 12, 2009 SAVE THE DATE
First Annual Activity Professionals Symposium
(details to follow)

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

COLLAGE -- Postponed (date and location to be announced)

The Georgia Institute on Aging will host COLLAGE, The Art and Science of Healthy Aging® symposium. Look for the invitation to participate in this free symposium, Using Outcomes to Advance Healthy Aging in Older Adults – “What have we learned."

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!

August 26-27 SAVE THE DATE
Annual Service Coordinator Conference

August 26-27 SAVE THE DATE
Nursing Leadership Conference

October 15 SAVE THE DATE
2nd Annual Culture Change Summit

Register Now for Clint Maun's Webcast

Have you ever worked with one of “those” people that made you want to:

• Avoid them?
• Shout at them?
• Terminate them?

If the answer is “yes” to any of these questions, you need to try another alternative- how to deal with them. As hard as that may seem, it is possible. Learn how to deal with the multitude of potentially difficult situations in day-to-day relationships. Today’s aging services organizations experience many diverse and somewhat complicated human interactions. Learn specific techniques to demonstrate appropriate implementation for handling “tough” situations.

Internet Healthcare Network (IHN; Maun-Lemke) and the Professional Development Network (PDN), comprised of education directors from the state affiliates of AAHSA including Aging Services of Georgia, have created a new way to learn via the Internet. Anticipate CEU and non-CEU courses on vital topics for aging services providers presented by nationally recognized speakers. Easy to use Website; high level information and courses for all staff and management needs; proven course authors and healthcare experts.

For more detailed information regarding this program, please click here. Registration for Dealing with Difficult People is now open, and the class is available at your convenience anytime prior to December 31, 2009. For sign-up information, go to www.ihnuniversity.com. One (1) CEU credit for nursing home administrators will be issued per $39 fee.

Center for Positive Aging

Background, History and Future Plans

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. (full article)

New Advice on Discharge Options for Consumers

Planning for Your Discharge, a new publication from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), is a checklist for patients and caregivers preparing to leave a hospital, nursing home, or other health care setting to help them navigate the discharge process. Click Here

(Evvie Munley, AAHSA, (202) 508-9478)

Book Offers Understanding of Aging Parents
Mom, Dad...Can We Talk?

Mom, Dad...Can We Talk is a read-me-first book for the 53 million adult children in America, the "sandwich generation" of boomers, for whom aging parent issues and care concerns are an increasing reality.  It's also a must read for those who believe eldercare is the women's issue of the 21st Century. Mom, Dad...Can We Talk? invites the reader to stop-and-think, to evaluate, anticipate and communicate so that " when the time comes" sailing the uncharted waters of aging parents will be smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

The book is conversational, sometimes humorous, sometimes poignant, always informative, and encouraging. It is rich with nearly 100 personal stories and quotes from adult children who have journeyed with their parents through their later years.  Readers get practical advice for initiating caring conversations, such as those that might start: "Dad, I think it's time for you to stop driving" or, "Mom, we're worried about you living alone", or "Mom, Dad we need you to tell
us what you want us to do."

Readers also gain an understanding of their parents growing older; are reminded that family dynamics must be factored into expectations, actions, and decisions; and learn helpful hints for managing the " Big Ds" of growing older - dementia, drinking, depression, and driving.

Mom, Dad...Can We Talk? personalizes and humanizes the final stage in the parent-child relationship and helps ensure the best possible outcome, that of no regrets.  The author, Dick Edwards, has 35 years experience working closely with older adults and their families. For the
past 20 years he served as administrator of Charter House, a nationally recognized model for excellence in retirement living and long-term health care affiliated with the world-renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.
Visit www.momdadcanwetalk.com to learn more about the book, to share your questions and experiences with
others, and to explore the possibility of a keynote presentation.

Organizational/
Board Development

“How Good is our Board?” How Board Evaluations Can Improve Governance

Governance & Planning Support for the Not-for-Profit Sector from Nathan Garber & Associates

News Throughout the Continuum

Affordable Housing  

Strategies to Decrease Energy Costs

HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary Appointed

Deadline for HUD Annual Financial Statements Extended 30 Days

2009 Income Limits

Implementation Delay

Energy Retrofit Program

Assisted Living

Salary & Benefits Report

We have the Assisted Living Salary & Benefits Report 2008-2009 in the office.  Please contact Susan Watkins at swatkins@agingservicesga.org if you would like to review the report.

Report Explores Functional and Cognitive Trends of AL Residents

2009 Assisted Living Symposium

DON’T MISS Exemplars of Excellence – our 2009 Assisted Living Symposium.  This symposium is designed to examine and discuss exemplars of excellence in policy, research and practice.    exemplar: An ideal model or type; one that serves as a model or example; to be copied or imitated (Webster’s dictionary)

The Main Presenters will be Karen Love, Managing Director, Center for Excellence in Assisted Living; and Kim McRae, Culture Change Network of Georgia.  You will also here from Vickie Flynn, PCH Division of the Office of Regulatory Services.

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

Nation E-Report

The most recent national e-report is posted here.

Bill Aims To Boost Medicaid-Funded Home Care

Sens. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) and John Kerry (D-Mass.) have reintroduced legislation that would increase Medicaid funding for home care services. The Empowered at Home Act of 2009 would liberalize eligibility for state-funded home care programs, Grassley notes in a release. Among other provisions, the legislation proposes to allow states to offer home care services to beneficiaries before they are eligible for the Medicaid nursing home benefit and to allow states to let benes keep more of their assets so they can maintain their homes.

Client-Centered Care in HCBS

Culture change, or “client-centered care,” is generally associated with skilled nursing facilities. But, there are simple ways to incorporate client-centered practices in home- and community-based services. The main idea is to prevent seniors from feeling isolated in their own homes by building meaningful relationships with them as care providers. Emphasizing these relationships rather than focusing on the medical care they need helps seniors feel connected to the outside world and staves off feelings of helplessness. Read an article about client-centered care within home- and community-based services.

Adult Day Services Can Help ‘Sick Aging Services System’

Adult day services are a cost-effective option in a struggling economy. Many seniors not eligible for Medicaid benefits that would help them pay for care in an assisted living community or skilled nursing facility turn to these programs for medical care. Peter Notarstefano, director of home- and community-based services at the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, encourages eldercare providers to consider offering adult day programs, or partnering with other organizations that do, to serve the increasing numbers of seniors that are choosing to remain in their own homes even when they need high levels of medical care. Nostarstefano’s podcast discussing the unrealized value of adult day services is available here.

White Paper Released on Importance of Adult Day
Programs for Alzheimer's and Dementia Patients

The Nerken Center for Research and Grants released a white paper, "Adult Day Services: A Viable Alternative for Family Caregivers of Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Patients." The paper provides detailed information on Alzheimer's disease and its detrimental affects on caregivers. It also provides basic information on the types of adult day services available, and it reaffirms AAHSA's belief about the critical role that adult day services programs play in the constellation of care.

How the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Impacts Homeand Community-Based Services

President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act into law on Feb. 17. There are various components of the bill that will affect those providing home and community-based services (HCBS). The stimulus package provides emergency funding for state Medicaid programs to help reduce the incidence of state Medicaid cuts in HCBS, as well as providing additional funding for senior nutrition programs, prevention and wellness programs, and employment programs for older adults. The bill also prevents the implementation of 2009 Medicare cuts to hospice providers and the Medicaid regulations that would have shifted additional Medicaid costs to the states. Click here for more information.

Handbook for Self-Direction Now Available

An advanced copy of Developing and Implementing Self-Direction Programs and Policies: A Handbook is now available. The handbook provides state staff, policymakers, service providers, program participants, and other stakeholders with a single comprehensive source of information about self-direction programs and policies. Click here for more information.

Nursing Care

Another Update to the Five Star Technical Users Guide (3/09) 

The Five-Star Quality Rating System Technical Users' Guide has been updated, effective 3/25/09. Beginning with this (March 2009) version, the Technical Users' Guide consists of two documents:  (1) The Five-Star Quality Rating System Technical Users' Guide and (2) the Five Star Quality Rating System State-Level Cut Point Tables. (Entire article)

“LIFElines” email publication for Aging Services of Georgia Nursing
Home Members & Nursing Staff

Aging Services of Georgia healthcare/nursing home members will begin receiving a new publication called LIFElines. This publication is a partnership between Aging Services of Georgia and our Illinois Association (Life Services Network). LIFElines provides timely information regarding state and federal issues such as survey preparedness, risk management, immediate jeopardy, clinical issues, abuse investigation, recruitment and retention and a host of other vital information for Aging Services of Georgia nursing home members. All Aging Services of Georgia nursing home members should now be automatically receiving LIFElines. Any other Aging Services of Georgia member is welcomed to receive this publication – just contact swatkins@agingservicesga.org.

Topics in the March 9 issue are:

• Mock Survey: An Important Component of Survey Preparation
• Falls: Avoidable versus Unavoidable -- That is The Question!
  

CCRC

See articles above.

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
Nursing Home Administrator

Brandon Wilde, Evans, GA

Health Services Administrator

MobilexUSA

Sales Representative

A.G. Rhodes Home

Director of Nursing
Admissions Manager

Tech Notes from TechBridge

From Alissa Cook, Director of Client Development, TechBridge
What is software licensing and why do I need it?

A software license is an agreement between you and the owner of a program which lets you perform certain activities which would otherwise constitute an infringement under copyright law. The software license usually answers questions such as:

• Where and how and how often can you install the program?
• Can you copy it?
• Can you modify it?
• Can you redistribute it?
• Can you look at the underlying source code (for example, the programming instructions that dictates what the software should do)?

The price of the software and the licensing fees, if any, are sometimes discussed in the licensing agreement, but usually it's described elsewhere.

Key Points to Remember about Software Licensing

• In the context of software licensing, free and proprietary don't refer to price. A vendor of free, open-source software might charge you $50 for a copy of their program (usually they're charging for added services rather than the software itself), while a proprietary software company might charge you nothing. Free and proprietary refer to the rights and restrictions imposed on uses of the software.
• Glossing over a lot of nuances, if a program is released under a free software license (such as the Gnu Public License) or an open-source license, you don't have to pay anyone or ask their permission in order to install it. You can also copy and redistribute the software to your heart's content.
• If the software is designated proprietary or closed-source, you'll usually find significant restrictions in the license that limit the ways you can use the software, copy it, alter it, and redistribute it. Also, you probably won't have the right to view the uncompiled source code.
• Whenever possible, look into volume licenses or site licenses. These arrangements offer lower prices and they often make IT administration tasks easier.

To learn more about volume licensing from a particular vendor, check out some of the resources below:

Microsoft:

Qualified nonprofits and libraries can receive donated volume licenses for Microsoft products through TechSoup. For more information, check out TechSoup’s introduction to the Microsoft Software Donation Program, and the Microsoft Software Donation Program FAQ. For general information about the volume licensing of Microsoft software, see Volume Licensing Overview.

eOpen:

If you get Microsoft software from TechSoup or other software distributors who work with nonprofits, you may need to go to the eOpen Web site to locate your Volume license keys. For more information, check out the TechSoup Donation Recipient's Guide to the Microsoft eOpen Web Site.

Have questions about how to get FREE Microsoft software with NO TechSoup administrative fees? Call TechBridge at (404)879-5406 to see how we can help!

AAHSA Information

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

2009 AAHSA Annual Awards

The AAHSA Annual Awards honor those who have made a commitment to AAHSA Quality First, who embody excellence in leadership, care and service innovation, and who are making outstanding contributions to their communities and our field. Award categories are organized to encourage nominations that exemplify achievement in alignment with one or more of the 10 Elements of Quality at the heart of Quality First. Submit nomination.

Defining the Core Competencies Needed by Long-Term Care Professionals

The AAHSA Talent Cabinet commissioned IFAS staff to prepare at status report on the efforts to define the core competencies for long-term care professionals. The report, Defining Core Competencies for the Professional Long-Term Care Workforce: A Status Report and Next Steps, looks at:

• How well health care professionals are being trained to care for older adults and the initiatives underway to improve that training.
• What’s being done to define the competencies needed by professionals in long-term care settings.

The authors found very little has been done to define long-term care competencies, compared with the national, well-funded efforts underway to define core competencies for physicians, nurses, social workers and other health professionals caring for the elderly in hospitals and ambulatory care settings. What has been done in long-term care has generally been local, isolated and lacking in funding and influence.
The authors propose a national study group, modeled after the IOM study on the health care workforce, be set up to identify the competencies needed by professionals in long-term care settings. This effort will help ensure high quality long-term care services and provide the recognition and professional status these careers deserve. Read the Full Report.

AAHSA Future of Aging Services Conference
April 20-22, 2009
Marriott Wardman Park, Washington DC

Why attend a conference focused on the FUTURE when the PRESENT is demanding all of your attention?
The future brings opportunity…be ready for what it will bring.
The future brings challenge…arm yourself with the strategies that will prepare you.
The future is right in front of you…take home strategies to face it with confidence.

This election did more than make history—it brought many new faces to Washington. Ten new senators and more than 50 new members of Congress will be walking the Capitol halls voting on legislation that will shape your organization’s future. Do you want to have a say in what that future may bring?
HEAR from experts and each other.
JOIN together as one.
SPEAK with one voice.
Register now.

AAHSA Member Benefit Spotlight:  Idea Exchange

For AAHSA’s members, innovation stems from a belief that it is not only possible but also necessary to continuously improve. Innovation is the hallmark of AAHSA’s members as they meet the needs of an aging society through a broad array of care and service. The Idea Exchange enables members to share and learn from one another’s real-life, hands-on experiences.
The Idea Exchange is a dynamic collection of aging services successes, innovations, case studies, strategies, media coverage, research projects, etc. – that can be used as models for AAHSA members to replicate and learn from as they continuously improve quality.
To view all of the Idea Exchange articles, click here. If you have a story you'd like to share with members, please click here.