Welcome to the May 2010 "Seniors Digest"

Timmie Faghin, Advisory Council Chair

Former Advisory Council Member Will Parry was recently honored for his years of dedication to social justice, including the rights of seniors. Guests included (from left to right) Selina Chow, Margaret Casey, Will, and ADS Director Pamela Piering. See the article in this issue of Seniors Digest to learn more about Will’s inspiring life. ______________________

On April 23, Governor Chris Gregoire signed a budget that contains spending cuts and new federal resources, as well as $780 million in tax hikes on items such as cigarettes and soda. The extra revenue will allow the Senior Citizens Services Act (SCSA) and several other programs important to the Aging Network to continue at previous funding levels. This is a major victory for all the advocates who traveled to Olympia, mailed postcards, and called their representatives in support of these programs.  

The Medicaid-funded aging programs were largely sustained at current levels, with slight cuts to home care. The Adult Day Health programs received a lower funding level than present, but higher than originally proposed.

The new taxes last until June 2013, two years beyond the current budget cycle which ends June 2011. The planning for the next biennial budget will also be challenging if the economic recovery to our state lags. But for now, Aging Network advocates can take pride in the results of their coordinated action.

May is Older Americans Month

In honor of Older Americans Month, Mayor McGinn has proclaimed May 8-12, 2010 to be Older Americans Recognition Days. The theme of this year's Older Americans Month is "Age Strong! Live Long!" This theme recognizes the diversity and vitality of today's older Americans, who have lived through wars and hard times, as well as periods of prosperity, while spearheading a cultural revolution that won equal rights for minorities, women and disabled Americans.

Read Mayor McGinn's proclamation to learn more.

Also in this issue:

• Aging Your Way: Baby Boomers have their own ideas about aging! Senior Services is seeking input on senior centers and other services, so take an online survey and join us at meetings to make your voice heard.
  
  
• The Wills Project, a new addition to the Seattle Elder Law Legal Clinic, helps seniors prepare a will with the assistance of volunteer elder law attorneys.
  
  
• Tips for the Gardener in All of Us. It's spring! Taking a few simple precautions will help you stay safe as you head out to the garden.
  
  
• Save the Date for the Healthy Aging Fair, Social Security 101 presentations, and more!
  
  
• Walk Your Way to Better Health. In honor of Senior Health and Fitness Day, give your brain a workout with this month's puzzle!

For More Information....