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The Power of the 50+ Voter

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“The polls got it wrong.” We hear this a lot when election outcomes don’t match pre-vote predictions.  But what about the exit polls – the Election Day surveys that pollsters and pundits use to tell us what really happened? Turns out, there is a lot those tallies miss – particularly when it comes to older voters.

AARP commissioned an analysis by Echelon Insights of how many people in different age groups actually voted last November using what campaign pros call the ‘voter file’ – state by state data on registered voters and their voting activity. This research revealed some really interesting things.

First, the 2016 exits polls significantly underestimated turnout of older voters. Looking at counts of actual voters in 42 states (the remaining 8 and the District of Columbia do not keep track of voters’ ages), more than half of the 2016 electorate – 55% — was age 50 and up. This is a full nine percentage points higher than the 46% shown in the national exit polls.  In fact, 50+ voters topped 50% in every one of the states where voter file data is available.

Second, voters age 65 and older are the most consistently undercounted. According to national exit polls, this segment of the older voter population was 16% of the 2016 electorate, when the true share is closer to 25%.  And, all of the 25 statewide exit polls conducted in 2016, underreported voters age 65 and older, some by more than 10 percentage points.

Why is this important? The role of older Americans in deciding elections should not be understated.  Americans age 50 and up were not only the largest single voting bloc by age in the last election – they were the majority of voters. This is a trend that we’ve seen over the last few election cycles and one that will continue in 2018.

In fact, older voters will be even more important in 2018 than they were in 2016. Historically, older voters make up an even higher share of the electorate in midterm elections, when participation of younger voters – who are more likely to vote in Presidential years — drops.  In 2014, almost 60% of the 65+ and close to half of 45-64 year olds reported voting – compared to a little over a third of 35-44 year olds and less than one-quarter of 18-34 year olds.

This statistical reality means that in most races, across both red and blue states, older voters pick the winner. They are perhaps the most important swing voters in the country.  In 2016, the 50+ voted for the winning candidate in 17 out of 19 Senate races where we have exit poll data by age. (In Nevada and New Hampshire, the 65+ voted for the winner, while the 50-64 voted for the other candidate.) There was a similar story in 2014. Looking at 23 Senate races, all but one of the winning candidates carried 50+ voters.

With 2018 on the horizon, candidates of both parties need to think about – and talk to – older voters in their states and districts. They are the nation’s most reliable voters. They are informed and engaged . . . and they make up their minds early. So, word to the wise . . . there’s no time to waste.


Nancy LeaMond, chief advocacy and engagement officer and executive vice president of AARP for community, state and national affairs, leads government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.


Employers Can Do More to Support Family Caregivers

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With more than 60 percent of America’s 40 million family caregivers balancing their caregiving responsibilities with paid employment, there is a pressing need for employers to do more to support employees who are also caring for loved ones. In fact, according to a survey AARP conducted with the Northeast Business Group on Health (NEBGH), an overwhelming majority of the company benefit managers – 82% – say that family caregiving will become an increasingly important issue for their companies over the next five years. That is why AARP is partnering with NEGBH to help employers assess their company culture and develop strategies and policies to create a caregiver-friendly workplace.

In addition to time spent at the office or job site, family caregivers, on average, spend a little over 24 hours per week on a whole host of tasks to help their parents, spouses, children with disabilities and other loved ones live independently. They manage medications, prepare and serve meals, help their loved ones to bathe and dress, arrange transportation (or do the driving themselves), handle financial and legal matters and much, much more. About 60 percent of family caregivers assist with medical or nursing tasks like injections and tube feedings.

Some have to readjust their work schedules, often working fewer hours than they otherwise would, using paid time off for caregiving duties and taking unpaid time off when needed. Others work more hours or take an additional job to cover the bills. Many put their own health at risk for the sake of their loved one, and many say they feel isolated at work, unable to be honest about the responsibilities they carry at home for fear of judgement or reprisal.

There are a lot of things employers can do to support employees who are also family caregivers. It could be something as simple – and low cost – as forming an employee support group or distributing a list of caregiver resources. Some companies are leveraging employee assistance programs and new digital tools to help employees manage their care tasks. Other practices to consider are re-thinking sick leave and flex-time policies to take caregiving responsibilities into account or offering back-up care and respite care services as employee benefits.

At AARP, we live our values with paid caregiving leave, flex-time and back-up care options and an organizational culture that recognizes and supports our family caregiving colleagues. (I’ve frankly never worked at an organization that walked the walk on this issue the way AARP does.) A recent report by AARP and ReAct, a coalition dedicated to addressing challenges faced by employee caregivers, highlights a number of promising practices at other organizations. For example, Allianz Life offers quarterly educational sessions and a 24/7 support line for employees caring for aging relatives and other loved ones. Bank of America employees can tap emergency back-up care at a reduced rate and have access to legal and senior care consultants. And, staff at CBS can get help navigating the health care system through the company’s Health Advocate program.

To help other organizations support employee caregivers, we’ve developed an employer toolkit in collaboration with NEBGH. Resources include a self-assessment tool and a comprehensive guide complete with checklists and handouts to help employers identify and implement ways to support the caregivers in their workforce. One quick and easy step in the right direction is a list of caregiving resources ready that can be copied and distributed. The toolkit is available for free at www.employercaregivingtoolkit.org.

Whatever the changes, our research shows that having caregiver-friendly workplace policies is good for business. 87% of respondents in our caregiving and workplace survey say that supporting family caregivers in the workforce can increase productivity, and 75% say that having a caregiving-friendly workplace would help attract and retain talent. In addition, policies that help family caregivers take care of themselves – physically and mentally – can reduce employers’ healthcare costs in the long run.

As our country ages with more older Americans staying in their homes, the nation’s 40 million family caregivers are the bedrock of our long-term care system. We need to make sure that that they have the resources and support they need to care for their loved ones – especially when they are also working hard to support themselves and their families.


Nancy LeaMond, chief advocacy and engagement officer and executive vice president of AARP for community, state and national affairs, leads government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond

Giving Thanks for America’s Family Caregivers

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As we head into the Thanksgiving holiday, let’s also remember that November is National Family Caregivers Month – a time to recognize and express our appreciation for America’s 40 million family caregivers. They are truly the backbone our care system, helping aging parents, spouses, and other relatives and friends manage chronic conditions and disabilities.

At AARP, supporting family caregivers like Olivia Garcia is one of our top priorities. Here is Olivia’s story in her own words:

My name is Olivia, and I am my mother’s primary caregiver. Her name is Rosalinda, and she is 61 years young! My family and I have been taking care of her for 11 years, and she’s been living with us for about four years now. She was diagnosed with dementia at the young age of 54, then Alzheimer’s at 58. It’s been one hell of a rollercoaster of stress, emotions, questions and exhaustion!  But, we love her and know that good we are doing by the quality of care she receives. Thankful to the fullest for our local Agency on Aging that helped us so much during the beginning times of our journey. Mom attends an adult day care during the day so I can continue to work and provide for my young family of five – including mom! Life isn’t easy or fair at times, but your attitude about it makes all the difference. When her moments of clarity come in and she’s full of joy, I know we are doing amazing things for her!  God bless all the caregivers and their families!

To help Olivia and the millions of family caregivers across the country, AARP provides information, develops educational programs, and advocates for a range of federal and state legislation.

Our work is informed and driven by a number of important trends:

 

  • The need for family caregivers is growing. America is aging. By 2030, one in four Americans will be over age 50, and by 2050, one out of five will be age 65 and over. People are living longer, managing chronic conditions over an extended period of time, and, more and more, they are staying in their own homes.
  • Family caregivers are as diverse as America. We sometimes talk about the “typical” family caregiver . . . a 49 year old woman who spends 24 hours each week caring for her mother.  But, this data point masks the broader picture. Nearly one in ten family caregivers are over age 75. One in four are Millennials. Four in ten are male. While there may be a common bond, every caregiver’s situation is different, so there is no one-size-fits all solution to the challenges they face.
  • Technology innovations to support caregivers and their loves ones could be transformative – but we’re not there yet. Venture capital firms are pumping hundreds of millions of dollars into companies that provide technology, tools and resources for senior care. And, brand-name companies are rethinking how their products can be used by – and marketed to – seniors and others who require help to stay independent. But, an AARP study found that while 71% of caregivers say they are interested in technology that supports their caregiving tasks, only 7% are using what’s currently available.
  • Family caregiving is a workplace issue. A little more than 60% of American’s family caregivers are in the paid workforce. That’s 24 MILLION Americans who are balancing their caregiving responsibilities with jobs – either full or part-time. Employers can do a lot to helpAARP’s research shows that creating a caregiver-friendly workplace can increase productivity and help attract and retain talent. We’ve created a toolkit to help employers support their caregiver employees.
  • Family caregiving is no longer simply a personal issue. It is now firmly planted as a BIPARTISAN legislative and political issue.  At the state level, the CARE Act – a law that helps family caregivers get information and training to support a loved one who has been in the hospital – is on the books in 39 states and territories that cover the political spectrum. And, here in Washington, AARP is proud to work with Senators and Representatives on both sides of the aisle to promote legislation like the Credit for Caring Act and the RAISE Family Caregivers Act.

 

In September, the RAISE Family Caregivers Act passed the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent . . . a strong sign that in an age of partisan gridlock, family caregiving is an issue that policymakers of all political stripes can get behind. AARP is continuing to bolster support for the legislation in the U.S. House.

We are hopeful that Congress will pass the bill to create a national strategy that recognizes and supports family caregivers so families like Olivia Garcia’s can get the help they need to make the big responsibilities of caregiving a little bit easier.


Nancy LeaMond, chief advocacy and engagement officer and executive vice president of AARP for community, state and national affairs, leads government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

AARP Announces 2017 State Capitol Caregivers and Super Savers

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In addition to advocating for older Americans in the halls of Congress, AARP staff and volunteers are working on the ground in all 50 states, Washington, DC, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to make a difference in people’s lives through advocacy. This year, we have helped enact state policies to support more than 30 million family caregivers and provide thousands of workers with a new way to save for retirement.

Achieving these results took a lot of hard work and dedication from state legislators, governors and other elected officials. They worked together – often across party lines – to write, support, and advance commonsense policies that make people’s day-to-day lives a little bit easier and gives them more financial security in their retirement.

To recognize these elected leaders, AARP is proud to announce our fourth annual bipartisan class of Capitol Caregivers who fought to increase support for family caregivers and their loved ones along with our third annual bipartisan class of Super Savers who fought to help more Americans retire with confidence.

Capitol Caregivers
Every day, 40 million Americans help parents, spouses and other loved ones live independently at home, where they want to be. Family caregiving is a labor of love, to be sure, but it can also be a challenge. Care responsibilities can include providing transportation, cooking meals, managing finances, performing complex medical tasks, helping with bathing and dressing, and so much more. Sixty percent of family caregivers juggle full- or part-time jobs with their caregiving duties, and many are still raising their families.

AARP is fighting for commonsense solutions to make these big responsibilities a little bit easier—and we’ve seen real progress in states across the country.

AARP’s 2017 class of Capitol Caregivers recognizes 91 state legislators, five governors, one lieutenant governor, and one justice from more than 30 states, who advanced policies that:

A list of AARP’s 2017 Capitol Caregivers and the legislation they championed can be found here.

Super Savers
Today, 45 percent of working-age households have no retirement savings at all. At AARP, we believe everyone should be able to retire with confidence. That’s why we’re fighting for Work and Save plans that give more workers access to a payroll deduction retirement savings plan. Employees who are able to save for retirement out of their regular paychecks are 15 times more likely to save.

AARP’s third class of Super Savers includes six state legislators and two state treasurers who were integral to the passage of state-facilitated retirement programs in 2017.

A list of AARP’s 2017 Super Savers and the legislation they championed can be found here.

More work to do . . .
In 2018, AARP will continue to work with elected state leaders across the country to fight for the issues that matter to you and your families. To stay up-to-date on our progress, or get involved, sign up here.

More information
2014 Capitol Caregivers

2015 Capitol Caregivers
2016 Capitol Caregivers

2015 Super Savers
2016 Super Savers


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

 

From Primary Care to Portable Care

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With all of the focus last year on health insurance costs and coverage, it strikes me that we may not be paying enough attention to how people actually get their health care.  Change is a constant in so many things . . . including the world of primary care.  It’s not just about a visit to your family doctor anymore.

When I talk to my millennial sons, they rarely mention visiting a conventional doctor’s office.  I hear instead about flu shots at CVS’s Minute Clinic, consultations through the Amwell app on their smartphones, and Saturday visits to the urgent care clinic for that thing they’re worried about (just not worried enough to take time off from work during the week).

They’re not alone in seeking out new and different options that leverage 21st century technology and our increasingly “on demand” culture.  Walk-in clinics are popping up across the country. Telehealth apps enable virtual appointments and conversations with medical professionals, and confidential messaging systems let you communicate with your doctor’s office in between appointments.  Even an old healthcare standard – the house call – is making a comeback, with services like Remedy in Austin, Texas, that will send a licensed medical professional to your home or office.  And if you absolutely have to go to the hospital, you might choose an Uber or Lyft over an ambulance.  All of this is on top of the slew of portable, wearable devices that can monitor your body’s condition and countless websites – some more reliable than others – that stock descriptions of symptoms and dispense treatment advice. (Check out AARP’s online health tools including our Symptom Checker, Care Provider Locator, Drug Interaction Checker and more.  But, note that all visitors to AARP.org – or really, any health-oriented website — should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues.)

Better and more convenient access is a wonderful development, particularly since a primary care physician shortage is looming.  But these solutions aren’t without their drawbacks.

You can’t believe everything you read on the internet, and some of the free advice available may do more harm than good.   And one of the most powerful benefits of seeing a primary care physician regularly is the continuity of care you receive.  A primary care doctor gets to know you and understands your medical history, lifestyle, and risk factors – and how they may have changed over time.  He or she can help you adopt healthy behaviors, “connect the dots” of disparate symptoms or test results, catch signs of bigger problems early on, and guide you through the sprawling healthcare industry.  These new access points—urgent care, apps, websites— tend to serve as just-in-time doctors, answering immediate questions and treating one-time health issues.  Convenient, yes, but also targeted and selective.  What is lost is the benefit of having someone keep an eye on the bigger picture.

Additionally, many of these services and options may not be available outside of cities and larger towns.  Just as traditional healthcare is more difficult to access in small towns and sparsely-populated areas, these alternatives are also scarce.   Even new telehealth options, which offer tremendous promise, can be limited by poor broadband access.

So as usual, technology and innovation bring us more options and convenience, with a degree of unforeseen risk.  I can’t (and wouldn’t!) tell you how to manage your healthcare day-to-day, but I am happy to report that someone has likely created a solution that fits your needs.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

Driving toward the Future

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Last week, AARP hosted an event with POLITICO at the Detroit Auto Show. The topic: Driverless cars and the Future of Mobility. Now, if you’re wondering why AARP sponsored a panel that sounds more like the Jetsons than the Golden Girls . . . the answer is pretty simple. Having safe, affordable transportation options is essential to live independently, whatever your age. And, since driverless cars are coming sooner than you might think, AARP is working to make sure that these cars of the future meet the needs and concerns of older adults.

Today, 40 million Americans age 65 and up have drivers licenses, but most will outlive their ability to drive safely by as many as 10 YEARS. Three quarters of seniors live in areas without public transit options, so, not driving means not being able to get to the doctor, go grocery shopping, visit friends, and participate in other activities outside the home. That takes a toll. Studies show that former drivers have an increased risk of depression and are more likely to move into institutional care facilities.

So, autonomous vehicles – or AVs – are potentially transformative for an aging population that needs help getting around without getting behind the wheel.

But there are a LOT of hurdles before this opportunity becomes reality. Four of these challenges are what I call the 4 T’s for AVs: technology, testing, trust, and training.

Technology and testing are threshold issues for bringing autonomous vehicles to market. A lot of smart, creative people in the automotive and tech sectors are racing to be the first-mover in the marketplace. Meanwhile, the public sector is starting to get its arms around what kinds of testing protocols and regulatory frameworks are needed.

For AVs to be successful in the marketplace, people of all ages will need to trust machines to do the driving. Right now there’s a significant trust gap. A full three-quarters of U.S. drivers of all ages report feeling afraid to ride in a self-driving car. And, a little over half (54%) say that sharing the road with driverless cars make them feel LESS safe. Those numbers are even higher for Boomers – 85% say they are afraid to ride in a self-driving car and 60% would feel less safe sharing the road with AVs.

On the brighter side, older drivers are very interested in advanced features, particularly those that improve safety. Close of half of the 50+ already have some kind of vehicle safety technology in their car and most report using what they have. Three quarters of those who don’t have these systems in their cars say they want them, and three quarters of older drivers who plan on buying a new car say they will seek them out. Bridging this gap between trusting add-on features and a full AV will be critical, particularly for older drivers who have the most to gain.

The fourth “T” is training . . .  and, I don’t just mean teaching older adults how to use new technology. Companies marketing and selling AVs will need to train their people to support drivers of all ages. We know that older drivers would much rather do in-person workshops, while younger drivers are more comfortable figuring things out for themselves. And there’s clearly a lot of education that needs to happen to help folks understand exactly what we mean when we talk about autonomous vehicles.

We’re in a very interesting window where we know the technology is coming, but we still have time before it’s ready to fully launch. Everyone involved needs to use this time wisely. That’s why AARP was out in force at the Detroit and Washington (DC) auto shows. We’re talking to the automakers and technology companies about what older adults want and need, and we’re engaging with members of Congress, federal agencies and local leaders as part of our ongoing advocacy work on transportation and mobility issues. We’re also leading the charge reaching older drivers directly through our SmartDriver courses and SmartDriverTEK offering that teaches them to use the advanced safety technologies that are already in their cars.

We have an opportunity to educate the public AND get their feedback, raising awareness and building consumer confidence and trust, so when AVs are ready to roll, consumers are ready to ride!


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

Bipartisanship: Hard to see, but still alive

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We certainly are living in very divisive times. On the big issues of the day, party and ideological lines are drawn with little, if any, common ground. And, the collegiality of Congresses past – the “disagree without being disagreeable” comity – seems like something for the history books. But is that really the whole story?

Back in December, I spent some time with a group of senior congressional staff. There was nothing specific on the agenda, just a nice end-of-year get together to share experiences and insights. I was struck by one person’s lament that there really IS a lot of bipartisan work going on but no one knows it’s happening. . . a point quickly seconded by a staffer from the other side of the aisle. I wondered aloud at the time why these efforts didn’t get more attention, and I’ve spent some time thinking about it since then.

Sure, the measures these staffers were talking may not be major pieces of legislation, but they’re not insignificant either. They will have a direct, positive impact on people’s lives. Here are a few examples of bipartisan bills supported by AARP that are now law:

 

  • The RAISE Family Caregivers Act, sponsored by Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D), Senator Susan Collins (R), Kathy Castor (D) and Rep. Gregg Harper (R), calls for the development of a strategy to support America’s 40 million family caregivers. An advisory body will bring together stakeholders from the private and public sectors to make recommendations that communities, providers, government, and others could take to help make the big responsibilities of caregiving a little bit easier.

 

  • The Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act, which makes certain types of hearing aids available without a doctor’s prescription, was sponsored by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R), Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D), Rep. Earl Carter (R) and Rep. Joseph Kennedy (D) and had overwhelming bipartisan support in both houses. It will now be easier and less expensive for millions of Americans with hearing loss to get some help.

 

  • The Creating High-Quality Results and Outcomes Necessary to Improve Chronic (CHRONIC) Care Act, sponsored by Sen. Rob Wyden (D), Sen. Mark Warner (D), Sen. Orrin Hatch (R), and Sen. Johnny Isakson (R), aims to improve health outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries who have multiple chronic conditions. The legislation, which was included in the continuing resolution that passed both the Senate and the House, promotes a team-based approach to care and expands the use of telehealth services among other provisions.

 

Other bills with bipartisan backing that are still working their way through the Congressional process include the Credit for Caring Act, sponsored by Sen. Joni Ernst (R), Sen. Michael Bennet (D), Rep. Tom Reed (R) and Rep. Linda Sanchez (D), which would provide a tax credit for working family caregivers; the CREATES Act, sponsored by Sen. Pat Leahy (D), Sen. Chuck Grassley (R), Rep. Tom Marino (R) and Rep. David Cicilline (D), which aims to curtail tactics that delay the creation of affordable generic drugs; and the Strengthening Protections for Social Security Beneficiaries Act of 2017, sponsored by Rep. Sam Johnson (R) and Rep. John Larson (D), which would increase protections for social security recipients who need help receiving their benefits.

And, there is strong bipartisan support for the medical expense tax deduction that helps millions of Americans with high health care costs. Last year’s tax bill retained this important deduction and restored its 7.5 percent income threshold for two years. AARP will continue working with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to make this fix permanent.

So, bipartisanship may not be thriving, but it IS, in fact, alive in our nation’s capital. This should be a news story, but it doesn’t seem to be one that policymakers talk much about or that the media is interested in covering.  My hope is that some of the 38 million AARP members will spread the word.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

WORK is the New Word for Retirement

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In today’s world, the notion of an older person reaching their 60s and completely leaving the labor force is simply outdated. An AARP analysis of the Employee Benefit Research Institute’s 2017 Retirement Confidence Survey found that close to one-third of retirees have worked for pay since retiring, and according to a TransAmerica Center for Retirement Studies report, two-thirds of Boomers plan on (or already are) working past the traditional retirement age of 65 . . . or never retiring at all.

Over the next six years, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the 65 to 74 year old and 75+ age groups will be the fastest growing segments of the U.S. labor market. By 2024, approximately 25 percent of the U.S. workforce will be age 55 and up. That’s 41 million people, including 13 million age 65 and older.

There are a number of reasons for this trend. On the plus side, today’s older Americans are healthier, better educated, and living longer than prior generations. (Though lower income Americans are not enjoying the same increased life expectancy as those with higher-incomes.) Many like their jobs and don’t see a need to leave the workforce as early as their parents and grandparents did. Instead, folks see work as contributing to their well-being, with “being active” and “keeping my brain alert” the #2 and #3 reasons workers cite for planning to work past age 65.

But, this isn’t a 100 percent good news story. The top reason for planning to stay in workforce after retirement is to generate income. And, about four in ten (39%) current retirees who have worked for pay post-retirement did so to make ends meet. The reality is that longer life expectancy means retirement savings need to stretch farther. Today, the median balance in 401k/IRA accounts for workers age 55-64 is $111,000, fewer American workers have traditional defined benefit pensions, and close to 55 million don’t have access to a retirement savings plan at work. More than half of the 42 million Americans age 65 and up who get Social Security benefits rely on Social Security for most of their family income.

It’s also important to keep in mind that continuing to work isn’t a good option for everyone. More than 10 million Americans age 58 and up have jobs that are physically demanding or with difficult working conditions. These workers may need to retire earlier because they have trouble keeping up with the particular demands of their jobs as they age.

So how are employers responding to so many older Americans wanting – or needing – to keep working? Some are taking full advantage of everything older workers have to offer . . . knowledge and experience, professionalism and a strong work ethic that reduces employee turnover, to name a few. More than 500 organizations have signed on to AARP’s Employer Pledge Program, affirming the value of experienced workers and a commitment to an age-diverse workforce.

But, unfortunately, outdated and unfair stereotypes about older workers persist. Nearly two-thirds of older workers report having seen or experienced discrimination in the workplace. And, older job seekers often struggle to get hired. It likely isn’t a coincidence that older workers are more likely than to be self-employed. Sure, their experience and access to resources puts them in a good position to start businesses, but for some it may be a fall back plan when a job search doesn’t pan out.

That’s why AARP is working hard to support older Americans in retirement AND as they keep working . . . through our Employer Pledge Program, virtual job fairs and workshops for 50+ job seekers . . . through our advocacy to maintain and strengthen the Age Discrimination in Employment Act and other legal protections as well as Medicare and Social Security . . . and, when warranted, through litigation to defend anti-discrimination policies in court. True to our mission, we are committed to helping the 50+ choose HOW to live as they age and that includes staying in the workforce.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

The post WORK is the New Word for Retirement appeared first on AARP.


Celebrating the Contributions of AARP Volunteers

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As we kick-off National Volunteer Week, what words come to mind when you think about volunteers? Caring? Dedicated? Selfless?  Perhaps all of the above? I’ll add two more . . . absolutely essential.

Every year, close to 60,000 volunteers contribute their time, skills and energy to AARP activities across the country. They expand our reach and power our social mission agenda, helping older Americans live their best lives. Simply put, we couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers.

There’s May in Hawaii who leads a team of fellow volunteers hosting monthly events like a Chinatown Walking Tour and helps organize a caregiver conference that attracts hundreds of participants every year.

Then there’s Charlie and Aimee in Georgia, who, between them, have taught more than 340 AARP Driver Safety classes to around 9,300 neighbors in their community, not to mention translating Driver Safety guidebooks into Korean!

Meanwhile, Carlos leads AARP Oregon’s Hispanic/Latino outreach efforts with a big focus this year on educating Spanish-speaking Oregonians about the state’s new payroll-deduction retirement savings program. In fact, the State Treasury office regularly calls on Carlos to help with their OregonSaves Hispanic/Latino outreach.

John is an invaluable member of the AARP West Virginia Capitol Advocacy Team. Leveraging his experience as a former state legislator, John played a lead role is AARP’s efforts to secure increased funding for West Virginia’s health insurance program for public employees and retirees.

Fritz is another terrific volunteer. He’s an attorney who shares his expertise with AARP Legal Counsel for the Elderly’s Veteran Advocacy Project. Fritz comes to the office every week to advocate for low-income veterans on cases related to their VA pension benefits and debt relief.

And, across the country, AARP volunteers are critical to our work making communities great for people of all ages. The age-friendly initiative in Augusta, Maine, for example, wouldn’t exist without Bob and Carol, volunteers who personally led the charge for their home city to join AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly Communities. They generated media coverage, engaged with the mayor, city council and town manager, and now, two years later, they have completed an action plan. Bob and Carol understand that small things can make a big difference. One project they spearheaded was asking local grocery stores to install benches so shoppers can take a break or wait for a ride home. The next step . . . asking the city to put benches along popular walking routes.

These a just handful of examples. I couldn’t even begin to capture here all of the things that AARP’s volunteers do every day in collaboration with AARP’s state offices and programs like AARP Tax Aide.

What I can do is say THANK YOU for helping us fight for and equip older Americans with what they need to choose how they live as they age. And, while it’s important to recognize and celebrate our volunteers during National Volunteer Week, engaging and supporting them is one of AARP’s top priorities year-round. We hold tele-town halls twice a month to talk about different initiatives and get valuable feedback. Our “just in time” information tools ensure that our volunteers can stay up-to-date and spread the word in their communities. And, we provide learning and leadership opportunities to help our volunteers hone their skills, achieve personal goals, develop strong partnerships with our staff, and make the most out of the time they devote to their AARP activities.

So, on behalf of everyone here at AARP this National Volunteer Week, my heartfelt appreciation goes out to our caring, dedicated, selfless, ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL volunteer corps for all that they do.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

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As Medicare Rolls Out New Cards, Fraudsters Roll Out New Scams

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If you are one of America’s 55 million Medicare beneficiaries (or, if someone in your life is), you need to know about a big, POSITIVE change coming. Starting this month, the U.S. government is mailing out new Medicare cards that have been redesigned to help prevent identity theft. New enrollees will be among the first to get the cards. Current enrollees will get theirs over the next year.

The biggest change you’ll notice is that your Social Security number will no longer be on the card. Thank goodness, since Social Security numbers are like gold for scammers. If they get a hold of your number, criminals can file fake tax returns in your name to collect refunds; they can also take out loans, open credit card accounts, and do other things that wreak havoc with your finances and peace of mind.

This important step to protect older Americans is the result of a law passed by Congress in 2015.  But, it’s still important to stay alert! Fraudsters have already come up with new scams based on the new cards. Already, we’ve heard about seniors getting calls from people claiming to be from Medicare to collect a processing fee for the new cards. (They’re not. The cards are FREE.) Or, scammers say they need to verify your Social Security number before sending out your new card. (NOPE. Medicare already has your Social Security number). Or, they claim there’s a balance on your old card and they need bank account information to transfer the refund. (NO AGAIN. Medicare does NOT call beneficiaries asking for personal information like this.)

AARP is working hard to make sure that our members and their families understand the new card program and protect themselves from scams. Earlier this year, we fielded a survey that found more than three-quarters of Medicare-aged consumers didn’t know the new cards were coming. So, we’re getting the word out in all kinds of ways  . . . there’s a big feature story in the latest edition of the AARP Bulletin, and we’ve put together videos (here and here), an animated “quiz” and a webinar to tell people about the new cards, how to protect them and how to spot card scams. Across the country, AARP teams on the ground are talking to folks in their communities and giving them fact sheets to share with their friends and neighbors.

Every year, fraud and scams impact thousands of families, and older Americans are frequent targets. That’s why AARP launched the Fraud Watch Network – to give our members and people of all ages the information and resources they need foil the fraudsters. When it comes to the new Medicare cards, the roll-out process will go on for a year . . . and so will the scams. We will continue to let our members and others know what to watch out for through our publications, www.aarp.org, and our Fraud Watch Network. To get timely scam alerts, sign up for our watchdog alerts.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

The post As Medicare Rolls Out New Cards, Fraudsters Roll Out New Scams appeared first on AARP.

The Clock is Ticking to Implement a New Law Helping America’s Caregiving Families

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AARP led a group of 75 organizations yesterday, calling on Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Alex Azar to implement the bipartisan Recognize, Assist, Include, Support and Engage (RAISE) Family Caregivers Act. In a letter, the organizations write, “Millions of individuals count on family caregivers every day. Family caregivers are counting on implementation of this commonsense law.”

The RAISE Family Caregivers Act, which passed Congress with overwhelming support and was signed into law by President Trump on January 22, requires the Secretary of HHS to develop a strategy to support family caregivers within 18 months of the law’s enactment – the clock started ticking five months ago.

According to the new law, the Secretary must:

  • Establish an advisory council of representatives from both the private and public sectors to advise and make recommendations for the strategy.
  • Identify as part of the strategy recommended actions that communities, providers, government, and others are taking and may take to make it easier to coordinate care for a loved one, get information, referrals and resources, and improve respite options so family caregivers can reset and recharge, among other areas.


Every day, more than 40 million Americans help aging parents, spouses, and other relatives and friends manage chronic conditions and disabilities so their loved ones can live independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible. About 3.7 million family caregivers provide care to a child under age 18 who have medical, behavioral, or other condition or disability, and 6.5 million family caregivers assist both adults and children They manage medications, help with bathing and dressing, prepare and feed meals, arrange transportation to medical appointments (or do the driving themselves), handle financial and legal matters and much, much more. Many do all of this while working full time and raising families.

Family caregivers are the backbone of our care system in this country. The unpaid care family caregivers provide — a staggering 37 billion hours valued at about $470 billion annually — helps delay or prevent more costly care and unnecessary hospitalizations, saving taxpayer dollars.

Once implemented, the RAISE Family Caregivers Act will:

  • Help improve the collection and sharing of information, including information related to evidence-based or promising practices and innovative models regarding family caregiving.
  • Better coordinate, assess, maximize the effectiveness, and avoid unnecessary duplication of existing federal government activities to recognize and support family caregivers.
  • Inform state and local efforts to support family caregivers.


Jennifer, who cares for her elderly mother with dementia, Yoko, demonstrates the importance of this new law and its enactment. “Taking care of Mom is a full-time job, including getting up several times a night to help her walk to the bathroom. This has been a challenge since I no longer get a full night’s rest. During the day, I’m responsible for broad duties such as her finances and healthcare decisions, as well as everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, and medication management.”

Family caregivers, like Jennifer, take on huge responsibilities every day, and the RAISE Family Caregivers Act is one way to help make their lives a little bit easier.

On behalf of America’s more than 40 million family caregivers—and the loved ones who count on them—AARP urges Secretary Alex Azar to promptly implement the RAISE Family Caregivers Act. Family caregivers need support today.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

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Moving forward: Mobility Options are Key Element of Livable Communities

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Think for a moment about everything you do in a typical week . . . going to work or school or volunteering, visiting friends and family, getting to a doctor’s appointment or the grocery store, grabbing a bite to eat, catching a movie . . . and you’ll understand why safe, affordable transportation options are a key component of what we at AARP call “livable communities” – great places to live for people of all ages. Day-to-day mobility is critical to earn a living, raise a family, contribute to your community, and, really, enjoy life.

For generations in the U.S., the car has been king – particularly outside of big cities. Overall, about 86% of American workers commute by car with about 3 in 4 of those driving solo. And, while car ownership has seen a recent decline, 91% of U.S. households own at least one.

But how can you get around if you don’t want to – or can’t – drive yourself? This question is particularly important for older adults who want to stay in their homes and communities as they age. Today, 40 million Americans age 65 and up have drivers licenses, including more than 3.5 million who are 85 years old or older. Most will outlive their ability to drive safely by as long as a decade. Giving up their car keys is incredibly difficult. Without other options, it can mean a loss of independence and social isolation.  In fact, studies show that former drivers have an increased risk of depression and are more likely to move into institutional care facilities.

That’s why AARP is actively engaged on a range of transportation and mobility initiatives.

In some places, that means supporting local action to increase investment in public transportation. A great example is the work that AARP Indiana staff and volunteers are doing to help expand and improve bus service in Indianapolis and Marion County. With innovative approaches like electric bus rapid transit and a revamped route structure that helps people travel efficiently between neighborhoods, the project could serve as a useful model for low-density cities looking for transit options that won’t break the bank.

But, improving mobility options is about more than buses and trains.  It’s also about making it easier (and safer) to cross the street, bike to work, and walk around town to do your errands. AARP works with cities, towns, and states across the country on “complete streets” initiatives that focus on things like improving crosswalks and sidewalks so they can be navigated by residents of all ages and abilities. These seemingly small changes can make a big difference for a parent pushing a stroller, a teen riding a bike, someone in a wheelchair or an older adult who isn’t comfortable getting behind the wheel.

These solutions, however, only get us so far. But, thanks to technological innovation, we are on the cusp of game-changing breakthroughs. Ride-sharing through apps like Uber and Lyft may have started in cities, but they’re now changing the mobility landscape in communities of all sizes.  In fact, Lyft says that 95% of the U.S. population is a mere 10 minutes away from a ride with one of their drivers, and both of the big names in ride sharing are partnering with health providers to help get people to and from medical appointments. We’re also seeing creative ventures from start-ups and non-profits that focus specifically on giving rides — and in some cases a little extra help — to older adults and people of all ages with disabilities, whether they’re going to see a doctor or do some grocery shopping.  And the sharing economy ethos is transforming how we view personal mobility resources from something that you own to something that you pay to use only when you need it – whether it’s a car, a bike, or an electric scooter.

Meanwhile, auto and tech companies are racing to be the first-mover on autonomous vehicles – a development that has the potential to be truly transformative.  And, it’s coming sooner than you may think. Today’s cars already come with the kinds of advanced technology features that are the building blocks of AVs . . . things like rear-view back-up cameras, ‘lane assist’ technology, and (my personal favorite) automated parallel parking.

While we wait for fully autonomous cars to come on-line, we’re helping AARP members and other older adults get ready. That means being comfortable with auto technology and jumping into someone else’s car. Through AARP Driver Safety’s SmartDriverTEK program, we are helping older Americans understand and use advanced features that are already available, and later this summer, we are launching pilot projects to educate older adults about using ride sharing services.  We’ll also be testing a technology solution that will connect older adults with a range of mobility options, including public transit, bike sharing, volunteer drivers as well as ride-share companies.

These initiatives are incredibly promising. Taking an “all of the above” approach that combines safe, walkable streets with accessible public transit and a range of on-demand options, we can help millions of Americans stay independent as they age.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

The post Moving forward: Mobility Options are Key Element of Livable Communities appeared first on AARP Blog.

FCC and AARP Join Forces to Educate Older Americans about Phone Scams

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We’ve all experienced our phones ringing off the hook with a barrage of telemarketing calls. While these calls can be a real nuisance, some are far worse. Scammers use the latest telemarketing technology to rip off victims to the tune of millions of dollars each year. The threat of financial loss is especially great for older Americans living off of their retirement nest eggs.

The Federal Communications Commission and AARP are working together to educate older Americans about different kinds of phone scams. For instance, there’s the government impostor scam (someone claiming to be from the IRS threatens to arrest you for back taxes); the tech support scam (the caller, claiming he represents a well-known tech company, warns you about a “virus on your computer”); and the grandparent scam (a late night caller says, “Grandma, I need help; please wire money and don’t tell anyone”). Then there are a host of telemarketers – some acting legally, others not – trying to convince you to buy the latest dietary supplement or cure-all.

Today, scammers often leverage “robocall” technology that auto-dials phone numbers to deliver a pre-recorded message that may ask the recipient to respond. Lawful uses for this technology include things like prescription refill reminders, political campaign messages to your landline phone, emergency communications, telemarketing calls you have consented to, and educational calls to your landline phone by non-profit organizations such as AARP.

Scammers may use robocall technology unlawfully as a way to steal victims’ money, deploying other devious tactics to confuse intended victims.  A common one is “caller ID spoofing,” which makes the call look like it’s coming from a trusted source like your bank or a neighbor.

The FCC and AARP will use robocall technology for good when we co-host two Telephone Town Halls on Tuesday, September 18 at 10 am and 2 pm EDT. AARP members and the general public will hear directly from FCC experts on how to avoid phone scams and what the agency is doing to help consumers through enforcement actions. The FCC will also explain initiatives that will enable phone companies to improve caller ID and call blocking technology for use on both landlines and cell phones.

If you would like to be added to AARP’s outbound telephone call list for one of these Telephone Town Hall sessions, register here for the 10 am EDT session, or here for the 2 pm EDT session.

For recommendations on avoiding unwanted calls, see the FCC’s online consumer guides on spoofed caller ID and illegal robocalls.  And for information about various types of consumer fraud and scams, visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. 

Patrick Webre is chief of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau.

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Candidates Who Ignore Older Voters Do So At Their Peril

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With less than a month until Election Day, political campaigns are in high gear, and party control of Congress, Governor’s mansions and state houses are on the line. The landscape is volatile to say the least. But, one thing is certain . . . candidates who ignore older voters do so at their peril.

At AARP, we spend a lot of time listening and looking at data to understand Americans age 50 and up and their engagement in the political process. What we find is that year after year, election cycle after election cycle, older voters are the largest, reliable voting bloc. FULL STOP. Millennials and other young Americans may be the majority of ELIGIBLE voters, but they have yet to show up at the polls commensurate with their numbers.

Most recently, AARP looked at voter file data in the 42 states that track age and found that, in 2016, Americans age 50 and up made up 56% of the national electorate and were at least half of the electorate in all of the 42 states. We also know that older voters historically play an even larger role in mid-term Congressional elections. According to the U.S. Census Current Population Survey, voters age 45 and over have made up more than 60% of the voting population in every mid-term election since 2006, reaching 70% in 2014.

These trends will likely continue this year. In a recent Washington Post / ABC poll, 79 percent of registered voters age 40 to 64 and 82 percent of those age 65 and up say they are “ABSOLUTELY” going to vote in 2018. That’s more than 12 points higher than the 18 – 39 year old demographic.

At the same time, it’s important to remember that older voters are not a monolithic – or static – group.  For a number of cycles, Republican candidates have counted on their support, and that’s certainly been the trend in recent presidential elections according to exit poll data. But, when we look a little bit deeper, we see some big differences. Older minority voters, particularly African-American voters, consistently vote for Democratic candidates, and, older women tend to be more Democratic than older men.

In a lot of ways, voters age 50 and up are the ultimate swing voters. In 2016, the 50+ voted for the winning Senate candidate in 17 out of 19 races where we have exit poll data by age – cutting across both red and blue states. And, the conventional wisdom that being older means you are more conservative may be starting to shift.  Vietnam War protest era Boomers have turned 65 and the oldest Gen Xers – children of the Reagan Era – are now in their early 50’s.

Setting aside political party, there is a lot of common ground when it comes to the issues that older voters care about. A recent AARP survey found that the biggest worry for older voters across party lines is how divided America has become. And, when we asked about issues that are important to their voting decisions, health care costs rose to the top. We see strong bipartisan consensus around many of the health care issues that have been debated in Congress over the last year:

  • Protecting the Medicare Part D donut hole deal that lowers seniors’ out of pocket costs on prescription drugs received overwhelming support. 73% of Republicans, 80% of Democrats, and 81% of Independents say they oppose Congress granting drug companies’ request to renege on that deal.
  • There is also overwhelming strong bipartisan support for AARP’s positions opposing the “age tax” (80% of Republicans, 88% of Democrats and 84% of Independents) and maintaining protections for people with pre-existing conditions (73% of Republicans, 93% of Democrats and 83% of Independents)).
  • Another 80% issue is the medical expense deduction and ensuring that the income threshold stays at 7.5 percent.
  • Older voters also agree that Medicare should be allowed to negotiate for lower drug prices – though with more of a party split . . . 75% among Democrats, 57% among Republicans and 66% of Independents.
  • And, older voters across party lines also overwhelmingly agree that older Americans should be protected from age discrimination just as strongly as they are protected from discrimination on the basis of race, sex, national origin and religion.

 

The time is now for candidates to engage with older Americans and talk to them about the issues that really matter. Yes, Medicare and Social Security, but also how we can lower health care costs, make sure there is a level playing field for older workers, and be more unified as a country. AARP is conducting an intensive voter outreach and education campaign called “Be the Difference. Vote.” We’re encouraging our members and other older Americans to vote on November 6, and we’re reminding candidates for office that older voters will likely be the ones who decide the elections.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

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Women Caregivers: In a League of Their Own

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As another baseball season draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the incredible opportunity every at bat represents: three strikes means at least three chances to make it count before it’s back to the dugout. But imagine you were stepping up to the plate, and the ump said you already had three strikes against you. Whether anyone has told you that or not, there’s a good chance it’s true. Every day millions of women suit up, head to work, care for their families, and dream of a comfortable future, all while carrying three strikes against them.

Strike 1: Right out of college—for those who can afford it or are willing to load up on student debt—the imbalance begins. An average female college graduate makes just 82 cents to every dollar her male peer earns. Women of color have an even steeper hill to climb. African-American and Latina women are making, respectively, 68 and 62 cents to the dollar. These differences persist from the lowest-paid workers to the highest: a survey of 6,000 companies recently found that women hold only 47 cents of equity in their companies to every dollar that men hold, even at the founders’ level. At the risk of mixing metaphors, that playing field is not level!

Strike 2: The next setback comes if a woman decides to start a family. On average, mothers take eight years out of the paid workforce to raise children and manage households. That’s eight years of climbing the ladder—both financially and in experience—that millions of women opt out of. This can be a sound financial decision in the short-term, with money saved by not paying for childcare offsetting the foregone paycheck. But, those years of lost earnings have long-term implications as they get factored into future hiring and salary decisions as well as Social Security benefits.

Strike 3:  And now for the curveball. She’s established a career, figured out parenting, maybe made some headway in saving for retirement, when all of a sudden her (or her partner’s) parent falls ill and needs care. In their 40s and 50s, women often find themselves caring for aging parents or in-laws. Some may see it coming and make a plan, and some don’t.  In either case, caring for an aging or ailing adult takes a significant toll. In 2015, an average caregiver devoted 20 hours a week to caregiving tasks, spent nearly $7,000 out-of-pocket on caregiving expenses, and was more likely to report their own health as fair or poor than a non-caregiver. Women are more likely to take time off from work during this period than men, and some women retire earlier than they planned as a result of the time and energy their loved one requires. A woman who leaves the workforce due to caregiving responsibilities is estimated to miss out on $142,000 in wages. Even when a woman keeps working, she often turns down opportunities for advancement and higher pay to maintain the precarious balance between caregiving and work. And remember, those years of lost earnings and lower salaries are counted against her when she begins collecting Social Security.

The final score:

Women…

 

Women, like men, work for years seeking professional success, personal satisfaction, and financial security. Yet women spend more of their resources—time, health, and money—caring for others, leaving them on shakier ground as they age. Caring for our loved ones is a privilege and an obligation. We shouldn’t penalize women for accepting this responsibility.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

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Mobility Solutions: Accelerating toward the Future

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A few months ago, I wrote a blog about the vital role that transportation options play in what we at AARP call “livable communities” – great places to live for people of all ages. Being able to get around is critical to earn a living, raise a family, contribute and stay connected to your community and enjoy life. And, having alternatives to getting behind the wheel of your own car is particularly important for older adults who want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

The good news is that mobility solutions are evolving by leaps and bounds, driven by technological innovation and the sharing economy.

Just think . . . Uber went live in San Francisco a little over eight years ago. Today, the company’s name is used as a verb and a noun in casual conversation; there is stiff competition for customers and drivers from Lyft and other services, and, the sharing economy model now extends to cars, bikes and electric scooters in cities across the country.

These two mobility innovations – technology facilitated ride-sharing and transportation as something that you borrow, share or order up like a service – are the subject of two AARP pilot projects in three locations – Ft. Worth, Indianapolis and Columbia, South Carolina.

While awareness of ride-sharing apps is fairly high among AARP members and our broader constituency, older Americans are less familiar with how the services actually work, and they have concerns about personal and financial safety. So, our Ride@50+ workshop is testing ways to get older adults up to speed about using services like Uber or Lyft. We are conducting hands-on educational sessions in Ft. Worth and Indianapolis, providing free rides to get folks started, and evaluating the use of those rides and benefits to the participants in terms of increased social connections and ease of mobility.

Meanwhile, in Columbia, South Carolina, we are preparing to test a solution that connects older adults with a range of mobility options so they can choose the best way to get where they want to go for any particular trip. Everything from public transit to ride-sharing companies, bike sharing and volunteer drivers can be accessed through this one-stop-shop that positions mobility as a service rather than something you own and operate like a personal car.

All of this is a precursor to the game changer that’s on the horizon – autonomous vehicles (AVs). While auto and tech companies race to be the first-mover in the AV marketplace, and, the public sector gets its arms around testing protocols and regulatory frameworks, AARP’s pilots and SmartDriverTEK program are helping bridge a significant knowledge and trust gap. If older drivers are more comfortable with technology that is already available – whether it’s an app on their phones or a safety feature in their cars – they’ll be more comfortable with AVs as a logical next step.

There is a lot “coming down the pike” that can make a real difference helping older adults stay engaged and active in their communities and get where they need to go. And, AARP is helping make sure they’re ready to take advantage of these new opportunities.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

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AARP Announces 2018 State Capitol Caregivers and Super Savers

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In an election year filled with partisanship and political fights, it’s no surprise that many Americans feel that their voices aren’t being heard or that the issues that affect their lives aren’t being addressed. But, many outstanding elected officials work hard every day to make a positive difference for their constituents. 

That’s why AARP recognizes state legislators, governors, and other elected officials – from both sides of the aisle – who have stepped up and worked together to write, support, and advance common-sense policies that help older Americans remain in their homes and communities and retire with confidence.

AARP is proud to announce our fifth annual bipartisan class of Capitol Caregivers, who fought this year to increase support for family caregivers and their loved ones, along with our fourth annual bipartisan class of Super Savers, who championed policies that enhance retirement security.


Capitol Caregivers
Every day, more than 40 million Americans help aging parents, spouses, children with disabilities and other loved ones with a whole host of tasks that help them live independently in their homes and communities – things like assisting with bathing and dressing, preparing meals, driving to doctor visits, paying bills, and administering medication and other medical tasks. About sixty percent balance their caregiving responsibilities with full- or part-time jobs, and some are also raising families.

AARP is fighting for commonsense solutions to make these big responsibilities a little bit easier, and we’ve seen real progress in states across the country.

AARP’s 2018 class of Capitol Caregivers includes 58 state legislators and 6 governors from more than 20 states who championed policies that:


A list of AARP’s 2018 Capitol Caregivers and the legislation they championed can be found here.

Super Savers
Today, a secure retirement is out of reach for millions of Americans, especially those who are self-employed or work for small businesses. About half of all U.S. households are at risk of not having enough savings to maintain their standard of living in retirement, which means it will be difficult to pay the bills or put food on the table.

Social Security is a critical piece of the retirement puzzle, but it is not enough on its own for true financial security. The average annual Social Security benefit for a 65+ family is approximately $18,000, and older American families on average spend $20,000 annually on food, utilities and healthcare.

To help Americans increase their retirement savings, AARP is advocating for Work and Save programs that allow businesses to access a retirement savings option for their employees with little effort and no cost or risk. Research shows that workers are 15 times more likely to save for retirement when they have a payroll deduction savings program at work. 

AARP’s fourth class of Super Savers includes a governor, two state treasurers and 17 state legislators who led efforts to help workers increase their retirement savings.

A list of AARP’s 2018 Super Savers and the efforts they championed can be found here.

2014 Capitol Caregivers
2015 Capitol Caregivers
2016 Capitol Caregivers
2017 Capitol Caregivers

2015 Super Savers
2016 Super Savers 
2017 Super Savers


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

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Seniors Win Battle over Medicare Part D Doughnut Hole

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“Any changes to Medicare should help, not hurt, patients,” say the PhRMA ads. Yet PhRMA’s actions tell a different story.

Last February, Congress struck a bipartisan deal to help close the Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage gap, known as the ‘doughnut hole,’ a year earlier than expected. In addition, brand name drug companies are now responsible for picking up more of the cost of their products for Medicare beneficiaries who are in the doughnut hole.

The provision was part of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 and was a huge win for seniors because it will help save them billions of dollars in their out-of-pocket prescription drug costs starting this year. In fact, thanks to the Part D doughnut hole deal, Medicare Part D enrollees are expected to save $1.3 billion in 2019 alone. And they will save an estimated $6.7 billion in Medicare premiums and cost sharing between 2020 and 2027.

Unfortunately, PhRMA lobbied relentlessly to roll back this bipartisan deal. PhRMA’s sticking point is what they claim is an “extra” $4 billion that drug companies will contribute to seniors’ costs while they are in the doughnut hole. The $4 billion will be spread out over 10 years among the more than 400 drug companies enrolled in the Part D coverage gap discount program. In contrast, the Medicare Part D program paid drug companies $141 billion in 2016 alone.

Let’s be clear: Rolling back the Part D doughnut hole deal would have hurt, not helped, patients.

This year, Medicare Part D enrollees will enter the doughnut hole when their total drug spending reaches a threshold of $3,820. After this point, the new law requires brand-name drug manufacturers to begin paying 70 percent of the cost of their products for people who are in the doughnut hole—up from the 50 percent they paid previously. The higher manufacturer discounts will help lower out-of-pocket costs for seniors by reducing the amount they have to pay to move through the doughnut hole and enter catastrophic coverage where their costs drop substantially.

Reversing this important improvement would have negatively impacted a population that simply cannot afford to take on higher prescription drug costs, putting their health and possibly even their lives at risk. The median annual income for Medicare beneficiaries is $26,200. Meanwhile, AARP’s most recent Rx Price Watch report found the average older American taking 4.5 medications each month faced more than $30,000 in brand name drug costs in 2017. Drug therapy is not affordable when its cost exceeds the patient’s entire income.

And let’s not forget that drug companies are reaping enormous profits as a direct result of the tax bill passed earlier this year. They were already making colossal profits before the tax bill. According to The Wall Street Journal, 10 of the largest drug companies bought back about $52.4 billion of their own shares this year, more than twice the amount they repurchased the year before. Yet none of these companies’ tax gains appear to have been passed on to patients in in the form of lower drug prices.

Poll after poll shows that prescription drug prices are a top concern among the majority of Americans. Both President Trump and leaders in Congress have said that pharmaceutical prices are too high, and something must be done to lower them. We agree.

Despite PhRMA investing millions in lobbying for a back room deal and advertising to mislead Congress and the public, they ultimately failed to roll back the Part D doughnut hole deal. This defeat was due in large part to the thousands of AARP members and volunteers who fought back on behalf of seniors by signing petitions, calling their Senators and Representatives, and speaking out forcefully.

But this fight isn’t over. Drug companies will keep spending millions on lobbying and advertising to protect their monopolies and ability to set high prices. AARP will continue to lead the fight for lower pharmaceutical drug prices, for those age 50-plus and all Americans.

The new year ushered in a new congress and gives us a prime opportunity to work on bipartisan solutions to the problem of high prescription drug prices in the U.S. In 2019, we’ll continue pressing Congress and the Administration to put Americans before drug company profits.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

The post Seniors Win Battle over Medicare Part D Doughnut Hole appeared first on AARP Blog.

Leveling the Playing Field for Older Workers

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A career in Washington, DC, means a lot of turnover, and so, at the tender age of 50, I was job hunting after leaving the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative towards the end of the Clinton Administration. Freshly polished resume in hand, I recall going through at least three different job interviews where the questioner probed for my age instead of focusing on my qualifications and experience. While I didn’t feel a need to hide how old I was – I certainly didn’t consider myself to be “old” – perhaps the interviewers were reacting to my head of white hair. Whatever their reason, it was disconcerting, to say the least.

Unfortunately, my experience nearly 20 years ago is something that older workers and job seekers continue to face today. AARP research finds that more than 6 in 10 workers ages 45 and older have seen or experienced age discrimination, and most believe it starts when workers are in their 50s. A recent Urban Institute study found that 56% of older workers have been laid off at least once or pushed out of a job prematurely, and 90% of them never recover earnings comparable to the job they lost.

To make matters worse, today’s older workers have fewer legal protections than they did a decade ago. While the Age Discrimination in Employment Act has prohibited employers from discriminating against job applicants and employees based on age since 1967, a 2009 Supreme Court decision changed the rules, making it harder to prove age discrimination than other kinds of workplace discrimination. In a nutshell, someone making an age discrimination claim today needs to prove that age was a determining factor in the employer’s action. Even if I had an email that shows a hiring manager saying “Nancy’s too old for this position,” my erstwhile employer could effectively (in the eyes of the court) counter my claim by offering other reasons they didn’t give me the job or promotion. This is a fundamentally different standard than what is applied to discrimination claims centered on gender, race, or religion, where unlawful factors are not permitted to play any role.

So what can we do?

First, we need to educate employers about the important role older workers play in our economy and the value they bring to the workplace. About one-third of the U.S. workforce is age 50 and up, and research shows that these experienced workers bring important skills, professionalism and a strong work ethic to the job. Older workers also tend to be more engaged, an attribute that is linked to increased revenue growth and lower turnover rates. Age-diverse and inclusive workplaces also have higher-performing teams.

AARP is spreading the word through our Employer Pledge program. Hundreds of organizations have signed up, affirming their commitment to valuing and supporting older workers.

Second, Congress must act to reinstate protections for older workers that were rolled back by the Supreme Court in 2009. Last week, the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act (H.R. 1230 / S. 485, known as POWADA) was introduced in both houses of the U.S. Congress. This bipartisan legislation would re-level the playing field for older workers by treating age discrimination claims – and the required burden of proof – the same way that other types of workplace discrimination are treated. Passing POWADA would also send a strong message that any amount of age discrimination is unlawful, and it will be handled the same way by the courts as other forms of discrimination.

AARP, on behalf of our 38 million members, sends thanks to POWADA’s co-sponsors for their leadership on this important issue: Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA), Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI). Anyone who wants to join AARP’s efforts to end age discrimination and stop older workers from getting pushed out of the workforce can sign up here to receive important updates and opportunities to take action.


Nancy LeaMond is AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. She leads the organization’s Communities, State and National Group, including government relations, advocacy and public education for AARP’s social change agenda. LeaMond also has responsibility for AARP’s state operation, which includes offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can follow her on Twitter @NancyLeaMond.

The post Leveling the Playing Field for Older Workers appeared first on AARP Blog.

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