40th Annual
Governor’s Conference on Aging
Agenda Final
Tuesday May 20th 2008 - First day of the conference
8:00 Welcome Capital/State Rooms
Beverly Barnhart Chair, Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging,
Presentation of the Flag, Native American Color Guard.
CoCo Moore, Native American Dancer. Magpie Singers Drum Group.
Percy Divine, Regional Director, Administration on Aging.
8:30 General session Capital/State Rooms
Future Choices and Trends in Long Term Care: National and Montana Perspectives
Bonnie Cramer, AARP national board member, will provide a glimpse at the possible future of long term care in America. Rose Hughes and Mike Hanshew will provide a Montana perspective on the future of nursing homes, assisted living facilities and home and community based services. This forum will get you thinking about options for your community and family members.
10:00 Coffee Break – AARP’s 50th Anniversary Atrium
10:30 To 12:00 Sessions
State Leadership On The Future Of LTC Capitol Room
Hear more from Bonnie Cramer and AARP staff about how Montana can create more options and evolve the current LTC system. We’ll cover what some other states are doing to develop their spectrum of care for elders. Don Redfoot, Strategic Policy Advisor in AARP’s Public Policy Institute
Keeping the Mind Alive! Intellectually Stimulating Programs for “Seasoned Adults” over Age 55. State Room
This workshop will describe the Montana Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (MOLLI) at The University of Montana within the context of the current research on aging, wellness and keeping the mind active as we age. MOLLI is one of over 119 college and university Lifelong Learning Institutes funded by the Bernard Osher Foundation. Our mission is to promote lifelong learning and personal growth for adults over the age of 55 and to address their continuing intellectual needs by offering a diverse collection of non-credit, short courses. We provide an accessible and innovative learning environment so that older adults from all backgrounds and levels of education may pursue learning through lectures, discussions, short courses and interest groups covering topics from the humanities, sciences and the arts, as well as community and regional issues. Presented by Sharon E. Alexander, Dean of Continuing Education at UM-M and the Director of the Osher Institute. - Presented twice, again at 1:30
Mental Health and the Older Adult Executive Room
Discussing the facts and myths about mental health and aging. What is mental illness? An overview of the Department of Public Health and Human Services’ Behavioral Health Waiver for Adults with Severe Disabling Mental Illness will be presented. Marcia Armstrong DPHHS, Addictive and Mental Disorders Division. Presented twice, again at 3:30 today
Depression and Aging Legislative Room
Dr. Falley will speak about factors that increase the risk of elderly depression and the physical and chemical changes in the brain associated with depression. He will also address how to recognize depression in someone known, stereotypes to avoid as we recognize and treat elderly depression, and treatment options once elderly depression is diagnosed. Scott Falley, M.D., an internist at Internal Medicine Associates of St. Peter’s.
The Healing Journey for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Judicial Room
It uses the Native American philosophy, history, culture and morals. But is also adapted to suit native or non-native individuals. In this session we discuss ways of keeping the Spiritual, Mental, Physical and Emotional life in balance. We explore parenting, grief and loss, grandparent wellness and other issues such as financial, legal, and generational issues. Carrie Jackson
APS 101: Who We Are And What We Do. Lewis Room
This presentation will provide an overview of what Adult Protective Services does, philosophy in providing services, defines and provides indicators for Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation, discusses reporting requirements and how we can help seniors and those whom are disabled who find themselves the victims of Abuse, Neglect or Exploitation. Jim Kelly and Cassidy Agan Adult Protective Services.
Rebalancing and Long Term Care in Montana Clark Room
States continue to struggle with Medicaid – trying to balance cost containment and the need for a safety net that can help low-income seniors and disabled individuals in a cost-effective way. SEIU Healthcare 775NW will be hosting a panel discussion around current efforts in Montana to shift away from the current institutional bias in Medicaid funded long term care services and to focus on home and community based care options. The current rebalancing ballot initiative and its potential impact on long term care in Montana will be discussed, as well as rebalancing trends across the country. Allicyn Wilde and Andrew Beane, SEIU Healthcare 775NW.
Panel Presentation of the Alzheimer’s-Respite Grant Gallery Room
Join this interactive panel presentation to learn how services to informal caregivers have grown during the three-year Alzheimer’s Disease Demonstration Grant to States (ADDGS) grant period. The purpose of the grant has been to increase and expand respite care services and caregiver support services to informal, family caregivers. In addition, the grant explored how implementing a cost share might help sustain these valuable services. Learn about the pitfalls, challenges, and successes of each Demonstration Program. And hear the stories about caregivers who greatly benefited from these efforts. What you learn may motivate you to develop your own services to support informal caregivers in your community. Presenters: Area VI Agency on Aging; The Belmont Senior Center; Developmental Education Assistance Program (DEAP); Missoula Aging Services; and Traci Clark, Project Director
12:00 to 1:30 Centenarians Luncheon. Executive, Legislative, Judicial
Lynda Beaudry, Spiritual singer from the Blackfeet Reservation
CoCo Moore, Native American Dancer.
Butte's Clogger’s.
Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer will be recognizing Montana’s Centenarians, several of which have accepted our invitation to attend the luncheon.
In recognizing our Centenarians we intend to raise the public’s awareness of their many contributions to Montana and their steadfast resilience when saying “yes” to time. Centenarians are the most rapidly growing age group in the nation.
Although many Centenarians are unable to physically attend our recognition event, it is still a time for the community and the State to celebrate their lives, their rich individuality and to reconfirm their many contributions to our heritage.
Centenarians are sponsored by: NorthWestern Energy
Attending the Luncheon
WITH PHOTOS
Centenarians attending are: Catherine Brownlow, 100 Helena. Lillian Overend, 103 ?. Madeline Roesseler, 100 Helena. Sadie Florella Steen Baber, 99 Billings. Evelyn Sorensen, 99 Williston ND.
2 maybe 3 pages centenarians…. Photos and list.
Tuesday May 20th - Afternoon
1:30-3:00 Sessions
The “New” Older Americans: Challenges and Opportunities for Workforce Development, Education and Civic Engagement Capitol Room
This year the first of the Baby Boomers reached retirement age. Boomers, those American’s born between 1946 and 1964, represent over one-quarter of the U.S. population, and 29 percent of Montana’s population. This presents social and economic challenges, yet it also provides new opportunities. Baby Boomers are healthier and better educated than previous generations, making them a tremendous resource of experience, talent and knowledge for the public, private and nonprofit sectors. As workforce shortages increasingly affect the economy, all sectors—public, nonprofit and private business—will benefit from the availability of mature and older workers who are experienced, talented and well trained. Furthermore, community-based nonprofit organizations will benefit as older people become more fully engaged in charitable work, allowing nonprofits to increase their impact. Panelists include: Kathy Miller, Policy Director , Experience Wave, Washington, D.C.. Larry D. Swanson, Director O’Connor Center for the Rocky Mountain West, The University of Montana Missoula, MT. Amy Busch, Montana State Program Officer, Corporation for National & Community Service, Helena, MT
Creative Aging – A Community Challenge Legislative Room
At this session panelists who have a wealth of experience and knowledge will discuss 4 core services provided by Centers for Independent Living. Panelists will describe how Independent Living Centers work toward increasing services so people have other options besides more restrictive and expensive environments, such as nursing homes or institutions. In addition, those attending will be informed on Independent Living Center’s ability to provide statewide services to anyone with a disability or working with personal care attendants, independent living services available to seniors with visual disabilities, and the purpose of the Statewide Independent Living Council. Centers for Independent Living (CIL) / Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)
Keeping the Mind Alive!: Intellectually Stimulating Programs for “Seasoned Adults” over Age 55. State Room
This workshop will describe the Montana Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (MOLLI) at The University of Montana within the context of the current research on aging, wellness and keeping the mind active as we age. MOLLI is one of over 119 college and university Lifelong Learning Institutes funded by the Bernard Osher Foundation. Our mission is to promote lifelong learning and personal growth for adults over the age of 55 and to address their continuing intellectual needs by offering a diverse collection of non-credit, short courses. We provide an accessible and innovative learning environment so that older adults from all backgrounds and levels of education may pursue learning through lectures, discussions, short courses and interest groups covering topics from the humanities, sciences and the arts, as well as community and regional issues. Presented by Sharon E. Alexander, Dean of Continuing Education at UM-M and the Director of the Osher Institute - Presented twice, first at 10:30
Powerful Tools for Caregivers Gallery Room
Caregiving for a friend, parent, or loved one is a demanding job. The stress involved takes a toll physically and emotionally. Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a six-week course for informal caregivers to learn better self care. Come experience some of the tools that are taught in the course and learn where classes are available in Montana. Sandy Bailey & Jennifer Wells, Montana State University Extension
Understanding And Appreciating Cultural Differences Judicial Room
While a few individuals seem to be born with cultural competence, the rest of us have had to put considerable effort into developing it. This means examining our biases and prejudices, developing cross-cultural skills, searching for role models, and spending as much time as possible with other people who share a passion for cultural competence. Don Foster Psy.D. Sinte Gleska University Mission ND.
APS-Community Partnering for the Safety of the Elderly. Lewis Room
No agency is an island... The mandate of Adult Protective Services can only be met through the utilization of a valuable network of community agencies and programs. This presentation will focus on the broad continuum of community partnerships necessary to bring a safety plan to fruition, including medical professionals, hospitals, care centers, social workers, Ombudsman, county attorneys, law enforcement, courts, attorneys, family, Office of Public Assistance, financial institutions, and governmental agencies, just to name a few. In addition to a view of the continuum, tools and tactics of developing and maintaining functional interagency relationships will be discussed. The goal of this presentation will be to increase our understanding of community partners and the irreplaceable value of community partnering. James Francetich APS
3:00 Coffee Break – Humana Atrium
3:30 to 5:00 Sessions
Mental Health and the Older Adult Capitol Room
Discussing the facts and myths about mental health and aging. What is mental illness? An overview of the Department of Public Health and Human Services’ Behavioral Health Waiver for Adults with Severe Disabling Mental Illness will be presented. Marcia Armstrong, DPHHS, Addictive and Mental Disorders Division. Presented twice, first at 10:30 today
Accessibility: Essential Keys to Independent Living. State Room
We will discuss the importance of accessibility in maintaining your independence in your home and community. Participants will learn the importance of planning for accessibility now, as individuals and as part of a larger community. Information and resources will be shared about enhanced accessibility ideas including Universal Design, Visitability, and the accessibility requirements of the Fair Housing Act, and other federal laws. Those attending will learn about financial resources that can be utilized for improving the accessibility of their own homes, and how they can find accessible, affordable housing in their community. Participants will learn how to effectively advocate for their rights to gain equal use and access to community life, particularly in housing choices. Michael O’Neil, with AWARE and the Montana Home Choice Coalition,
Medication Management Executive Room
Receiving your medication is just the beginning of what you need to know about your prescriptions. In this session we will discuss: Understanding the basics to storage and safe handling practices. Why communication is the key to therapy. Patient compliance and why it is important. Understanding why drug interactions are important and what are your resources. Pharmacist Brian Henney, St. Peter's Outpatient Pharmacy Coordinator
Caregiver Training Workshop Gallery Room
This “hands-on” interactive workshop will provide training, education, and support to informal or family caregivers and professionals who work with caregivers in the community. The number of caregivers is expected to grow rapidly in the coming decades and some caregivers may not feel prepared to assume this challenging role. Possible topics to be discussed include: Home Safety, Safe medication management, Assistance with meal preparation, eating, or feeding. Assistive equipment for the home setting, Providing bathing, dressing, and personal care, Assistance with toileting needs. Safely moving or helping the family member transfer in and out of chairs, wheel-chairs, beds, and stairs. Managing behaviors like wandering or agitation. Respite and other community programs for caregiver support. Facilitated by: Allison McIntosh, Associate Professor, Department of Nursing, Montana Tech of the University of Montana.
Who Are the Red Hatters? Legislative Room
They are the biggest women’s playgroup in the world. The Red Hat Society is a network of women over 50 who have developed an enormous nurturing sisterhood that touches and enriches the lives of its members by bringing women together from all walks of life. They are women who have shouldered various responsibilities at home and in the community throughout their lives and now have a way to have fun and enjoy each other. The time has come to celebrate the freedom of aging with thousands of other women from all over the world. Come to this workshop to get a glimpse of this freedom. Pat Ludwig, Governor’s Advisory Council member and Red Hatter.
Native Elder Service Locator Judicial Room
Networking among entities providing similar services is crucial to program development. The Native Elder Service Locator project focuses on an Internet based interactive mapping system of Native long-term care providers and services. The goal of this effort is to connect communities with established services with those who are in the exploratory stage. Leander “Russ” McDonald, PhD, Director, National Resource Center on Native American Aging
5:00 AARP 50th Anniversary Reception Motel Foyer
EVENING ON YOUR OWN
Wednesday May 21st – Conference Day 2
8:30 am General Session - Senior Advocacy Capitol/ State Rooms
In light of the changing economy and the state of aging in Montana and the nation, it is important to understand the state of issues on aging and how we, and you, can become agents of change by understanding the issues and being a senior advocate.
Max 
Wally Michael
Michael Splaine, Director of State Policy and Advocacy Programs in the Public Policy Division of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Max Richtman, V.P. National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare.
Wally Dailey, Chair, Montana Silver Haired Legislators.
10:00 Coffee Break – Montana Arthritis Foundation Atrium
10:30 Two General Session’s Capitol Room
"Capacity and Incapacity": The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
This session will address both the legal aspects and psychiatric perspectives of capacity. The phrase "Incapacitated Person" has historically been confusing, misunderstood, and complicated. It has created a high voltage of controversy leading to emotional decisions about individual rights and least restrictive alternatives. Please join us for an interesting "roller coaster ride" through this topic. Ann Rathe, Geriatric Psychiatrist, Lou Villemez, attorney and John McCrea, Legal Services Developer SLTC.
Let’s Discuss Arthritis State Room
It’s impact on our bodies, reasons for early intervention and recent breakthroughs in research and treatment. Take control, we can help. Dr. Melody Knauf, rheumatologist from Missoula Mt
12:00 to 1:30 Luncheon Executive, Legislative, Judicial rooms
Recognizing Experience Works Montana’s Outstanding Employer and Employee of the Year and the 2008 Mini-Grant Winners:
- Flaxville Local Development Corp.
- Whistle Stop/Power Senior Center
- St Regis Senior Center
- Belfry Senior Center
- Meagher County Senior Center
A special thank you to our Mini-Grant donors: The Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, Wal-Mart, First Interstate Bank and the Crowley Law Firm.
1:30 to 3:00 Sessions
Montana Women Aging in America Capitol Room
As Montana ages, women outnumber men. OWL, (the Older Women’s League) is a national voice for mid-life and older women addressing issues important to Montana women. In this workshop, OWL will look at financial and retirement issues, pensions, social security and paying for health care beyond Medicare, impacts of care giving, and social policy implications. Through personal stories, OWL shows how each area affects the lives of women as we grow older in Montana and in America. Presenters Dianna Porter and Gladys Considine, OWL Board Member.
5 Things EVERY Senior Needs to Know about Computers State Room
This presentation will give you important information that every senior should know about computers and the Internet. When this session is done, you’ll know how to protect yourself and your loved ones while they use computers. You’ll learn the basics of computer purchasing, how to protect yourself from spam, spyware, virus and other computer threats, how NOT to get your identity stolen, what is safe banking and where to get help. Links to FREE software that will help protect you will be shared. A Special Question and Answer session where you can ask all the computer and Internet questions that you want. This session is for people who want to enjoy computers and the Internet while being safe. Brad Smith, RN,MCNSP,CISSP – Director Computer Institute of the Rockies Presented again at 3:30.
Session Two on Arthritis Executive Room
A continuation of the Arthritis general session, with suggestions for physical therapy and more discussions on treatment plans. Includes information on the Arthritis Foundation. Take control—we can help!
Senior Issues Forum: Getting Your Message to Congress Legislative Room
Citizen advocacy is critical to educating your Congressional delegation regarding the needs of seniors and retirees in Montana. We will discuss the key issues being discussed in Washington that can impact the health and welfare of Montana residents.
Important issues for the second session of the 110th Congress will include The Older Americans Act funding, Medicare reform, including the new asset testing of Part B. The workshop will also focus on Medicare Advantage problems and prescription drug issues.
We will discuss what program cuts Congress may consider for 2009. Social Security is still a hot issue and we will look at proposals that are being discussed to privatize Social Security and the impact of cuts at the Social Security Administration on services for retirees. Janet Witt, MS, RD. Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare.
AZ Advocacy 101: Practical Tips Workshop Description Gallery Room
5 .2 million Americans now have Alzheimer’s disease. 200,000 with the disease are under the age of 65. Every 71 seconds, someone in America develops Alzheimer’s disease. If left unsolved; by mid-century over 16 million people will be afflicted and some one will develop Alzheimer’s disease every 32 seconds. The impact reaches out through persons with the disease, our families and communities-- like a ripple that comes when a stone is thrown into a pool—affecting family, our economy, our social networks. Attendees will be able to list and define 4 major forms of advocacy with examples of each, identify key points that can be used with clients about engaging them in advocacy and participate in a short role play session. Special emphasis will be given on unique ways in which to provide support to rural/frontier communities. Michael Splaine is the Director of State Policy and Advocacy Programs in the Public Policy Division of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Native Elder Needs Assessment Project Judicial Room
American Indian Elders suffer disproportionately from diseases such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. Participants will learn of a national needs assessment project that assists tribal communities in collecting information that may be used to develop appropriate services, facilities, and/or interventions to address their elder needs. This session will focus on providing an understanding of the needs assessment process and how the information has been applied in the past to address Native elder needs. Leander “Russ” McDonald, PhD, Director, National Resource Center on Native American Aging
Yoga for Seniors Lewis Room
Yoga is an ancient practice created to nourish the physical body, the mind and the spirit. It is a powerful tool for dealing with physical tension and emotional stress in our modern world. The system of Yoga postures, breath awareness, and relaxation teach the individual to be a wise caretaker of ones closest personal environment. Yoga respects all ages, states of health and belief systems. Judy Landecker, Northern Lights Yoga, Helena.
Hospice: “Answers for Living When Life is Limited”™ Clark Room
Life’s end is inevitable and something we all must face. This session will focus on how hospice can provide answers for patients and their families who are faced with a life-limiting illness - Answers to help in living life to the fullest and answers to help alleviate fears that may arise at this important time of one’s journey. You’ll also get answers to commonly asked questions such as: who qualifies for hospice services, what services are provided, and how hospice is paid for. Robert Meyer, RN, Hospice Administrator with Rocky Mountain Hospice - Billings, Bozeman, Butte and Tracey Tharp, Marketing Director for Rocky Mountain Hospice Presented again at 3:30.
3:00 Coffee Break – SHIP sponsored Atrium
3:30 to 5:00 Sessions
Benefits QuickLINK – easy way to help aged, blind and disabled find the benefits that can improve their quality of life. Capitol Room
Benefits QuickLINK (BQL) is a web based program of the National Council on Aging. BQL is a version that covers the basic benefits rather than ALL the benefits. Basic benefits include Medicare Savings, SSI, Food Stamps, Social Security Disability, Big Sky Rx, LIEAP and Medicaid. Not only does BQL allow you to screen for these programs, but many of the programs have Montana Downloadable forms in the program so that the forms can be downloaded and filled out at the same time the client is screened. In all this is a program that can be used as a tool by organizations that are trying to help people connect with benefits OR it can be a tool for adult children who are trying to find benefits for their parents/relatives. Alex E. Ward, CPP, Associate State Director, AARP Montana
5 Things EVERY Senior Needs to Know about Computers State Room
This presentation will give you important information that every senior should know about computers and the Internet. When this session is done, you’ll know how to protect yourself and your loved ones while they use computers. You’ll learn the basics of computer purchasing, how to protect yourself from spam, spyware, virus and other computer threats, how NOT to get your identity stolen, what is safe banking and where to get help. Links to FREE software that will help protect you will be shared. A Special Question and Answer session where you can ask all the computer and Internet questions that you want. This session is for people who want to enjoy computers and the Internet while being safe. Brad Smith, RN,MCNSP,CISSP – Director Computer Institute of the Rockies Presented first at 1:30.
Round up Your Ancestors Executive Room
This workshop will begin with a quick skim of the basics in genealogy and then move into the use of computers and the internet. These newer digital programs are more popular with newer and even older genealogists that are amazed how easily one can keep records, move thru ancestors and do research in front of the computer. One can still have the satisfaction of collecting this information and creating printed records, in addition to validating information already collected. Much of the information is available free on the web, although one can also subscribe to reliable sites that help maintain the information that has been found and linked into an ancestral tree. Pat Ludwig, Governor’s Advisory Council member and Red Hatter.
Politics & Retirement Security: Can You Afford to Retire? Legislative Room
Planning for retirement can be a daunting process. The policies that Congress decides today may impact your retirement tomorrow. Where can I afford to live? What services will I require? How much money will I need? Do I need long term care insurance? What help will I get from Social Security and Medicare? The workshop will address many of the legal and financial concerns of boomers and the influence of politics for a safe and secure retirement. The presenter will look at the politics that drives the policies of Federal and State programs that are available for retirees and how these programs may help or hinder retirees both financially and socially. This workshop provides various tools for an individual to see how ready they are to retire. Janet Witt, MS, RD. Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare and Janet Hedges Investment Advisor.
Fall Prevention And Traumatic Brain Injury Presentation
Are living well and staying independent and mobile important to you? If so, you will want to attend this session to learn about the important role fall prevention can have on reducing your risks for sustaining an injury, like a hip fracture or traumatic brain injury. Far too often, senior’s lives are dramatically changed and short-term and long-term independence is impacted by a fall. In this session, we will talk about fall-related injuries and ways to reduce your and your loved one’s risks for falls. Particular emphasis will be on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), since falls are the number one cause of TBI overall, and a particular concern for seniors. Because TBI related falls are a nationwide issue, the Center for Disease Control has recently developed new recommendations for preventing falls, as well as recognizing and preventing traumatic brain injuries for seniors. These recommendations will be discussed by Tana Ostrowski, Occupational Therapist with Community Medical Center Bridges Program (a treatment program for people with TBI), and Bobbi Perkins, Injury Prevention Coordinator with the Department of Public Health and Human Services.
Medicare 101 Gallery Room
Are you just turning 65 and wondering about Medicare enrollment, benefits and options? Are you already receiving Medicare but have some questions about your health care coverage? Are you a caregiver who needs a review of Medicare benefits? Join us as we present a basic overview of Medicare Parts A, B, C and D, and ask all your Medicare related questions. Presenters include (invited) Nancy Pellegren, CMS-Denver Regional Office and Kimme Evermann, Montana State SHIP Director. Presented twice, again Thursday at 8:30
Exercise And Movement For Those With Arthritis Lewis Room
Cyndi Forbes of Helena
Hospice: “Answers For Living When Life Is Limited”™ Clark Room
Life’s end is inevitable and something we all must face. This session will focus on how hospice can provide answers for patients and their families who are faced with a life-limiting illness - Answers to help in living life to the fullest and answers to help alleviate fears that may arise at this important time of one’s journey. You’ll also get answers to commonly asked questions such as: who qualifies for hospice services, what services are provided, and how hospice is paid for. Robert Meyer, RN, Hospice Administrator with Rocky Mountain Hospice - Billings, Bozeman, Butte and Tracey Tharp, Marketing Director for Rocky Mountain Hospice Presented first at 1:30
EVENING ON YOUR OWN
Thursday May 22nd – Last Day of the Conference
8:30 to 10:00 Sessions
STDs and HIV in the Older Adult - A Silent Epidemic State Room
When one thinks of HIV, certain populations come to mind: gay men, minority populations, intravenous drug users, and families in Africa. One seldom thinks about HIV and its effects on older adults. So, think about this: one in seven persons over age 50 in Florida has contracted HIV. Laurie Kops and Judy Nielsen from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services’ STD/HIV Prevention Section present some surprising facts about how the HIV epidemic is affecting seniors, and offer advice for preventing the transmission of this devastating disease and other STDs.
Two Communities, different circumstances, different roles, shared vision of cooperation: Aging Services and Adult Protective Services working together to meet the needs of the Elderly in Hot Springs and Flathead County. Executive Room
This presentation will consist of a panel of Jim Kelly, Regional supervisor for Region Six, Kate Huntsberger, APS Lincoln and Sanders Counties, Susan Kunda, Ombudsman for Area Agency on Aging in Flathead County and Gwen Hanson, Project Director for the Hot Springs Counsel on Aging. The Panel will discuss how APS and Aging Services in Hot Springs and Flathead County work together to both protect and support seniors in these communities. The panel will also discuss relationship building, methods for handing join cases and resolving disagreements over cases when they arise
Who Get's Your Property When You Die Legislative Room
When does a will "really" control the distribution of your assets? What is the impact of how your property is titled on who gets it? Did you know that you can avoid probate on your real property in Montana with a beneficiary deed? Are you making use of PODs and TODs on your financial accounts to avoid probate of these assets? Are you aware of the dying without a will CD that is available from MSU without charge? Want to learn more? Marsha A. Goetting, MSU Extension Family Economics Specialist will update participants on new estate planning developments that are available to Montanans.
Grants Demystified and Secrets Exposed Judicial Room
There’s all kinds of grant money out there, right? Anybody should be able to get a grant, right? Not exactly. Discover what it takes to be a “winning writer”. Find out where grant funding comes from; who makes them, how you qualify, and what funders want to know. Learn what it takes to get even the smallest grant funded. Acquaint yourself with some of the grant killers. Discover 7 secrets to writing winning grants. This information will be helpful to those who have never written a grant before and are venturing into the “harsh” world of grant writing. After nearly 5 years as a Certified Grants Specialist, Nina Smith, of NCS Communications, has helped organizations and agencies in Montana win nearly $7 million dollars in grant funding.
Medicare 101 Gallery Room
Are you just turning 65 and wondering about Medicare enrollment, benefits and options? Are you already receiving Medicare but have some questions about your health care coverage? Are you a caregiver who needs a review of Medicare benefits? Join us as we present a basic overview of Medicare Parts A, B, C and D, and ask all your Medicare related questions. Presenters include (invited) Nancy Pellegren, CMS-Denver Regional Office and Kimme Evermann, Montana State SHIP Director. Presented first Wednesday at 3:30.
What’s Available When Vision Loss Occurs? Capitol Room
An overview of public programs that provide services for individuals with visual impairments will be presented. A question and answer period will follow a short presentation about how to deal with vision loss. Some adaptive equipment may be on display. Beverly Berg, DPHHS Disability Services Division.
10:00 Coffee Break – Sponsored By SEIU Healthcare 775NW
10:30 General Session Capitol/State Room
The Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging is charged by the Governor to advise him on issues of aging. In order to better understand rural and urban issues in Montana, the Advisory council would like conference participants to meet in small groups and discuss their challenges to aging as it applies to their communities. Your results will be summarized and discussed with the Governor.
Retiring of the colors, Native American Color Guard.
Magpie Singers Drum Group.
12:00 Lunch
Brown Bag, take it with you or stay and talk aging issues with your friends.
1:30 Conference Concludes - Have a safe journey home.
