Raging in Place

Gen-x aging resources and community

  • North-Central Connecticut Towns Receive $12.8 Million in Housing Grants

    North-Central Connecticut Towns Receive $12.8 Million in Housing Grants

    Boosting Affordable Housing in North-Central Connecticut

    In a significant boost to affordable housing, Governor Ned Lamont recently announced $12.8 million in small cities grants for several north-central Connecticut municipalities. This funding will support crucial renovations and modernization projects for low- and moderate-income residents.

    East Windsor and Tolland Receive Major Funding

    East Windsor and Tolland each secured $2 million, the largest individual grants awarded. East Windsor will utilize the funds to revitalize Park Hill, an 84-unit affordable housing development in Broad Brook. The focus will be on five of the oldest buildings, encompassing 30 units. Renovations include energy-efficient upgrades like new heat pumps, siding, insulation, windows, and doors, as well as updated kitchens and bathrooms, including tub-to-shower conversions for elderly and disabled residents.

    Tolland’s $2 million will go towards much-needed improvements at Old Post Village, built before the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted. Currently lacking ADA-accessible units, the project aims to achieve full ADA compliance in three units, bringing the complex closer to the required 10% benchmark for barrier-free units. Furthermore, the funding will support roof, gutter, window, and door replacements, along with kitchen, bathroom, and community room renovations. Interior upgrades, electrical enhancements, site improvements, and ADA-compliant ramp additions are also planned.

    Windsor and Other Towns Benefit

    Windsor received $400,000 to continue its home rehabilitation program for low- and moderate-income homeowners. The funds will enable renovations on ten units, including roof and window replacements, heating system upgrades, lead and asbestos removal, and electrical and code improvements.

    Other municipalities, including Ashford, Canton, Southington, Stonington, and Watertown, also received grants ranging from $400,000 to $2 million.

    A Community-Focused Initiative

    Governor Lamont emphasized the importance of these grants in improving neighborhoods and fostering community growth. State Department of Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno highlighted the crucial role of municipalities in contributing to the state’s unique character and quality of life. She stressed that these grants are essential for upgrading smaller towns and improving the daily lives of residents.

    About the Program

    These small cities grants are part of the Community Development Block Grant Small Cities program, administered by the state Department of Housing and funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This program demonstrates a commitment to investing in local communities and ensuring access to safe and affordable housing.

  • Medicaid Cuts Loom: What It Means for Generation X

    Medicaid Cuts Loom: What It Means for Generation X

    Healthcare changes are again on the table, with Congress aiming to cut Medicaid funding. A Center for Medicare Rights article details a proposal to achieve these cuts via budget reconciliation. This process allows legislation to pass the Senate with a simple majority, bypassing the usual 60-vote threshold. This tactic has been used before to alter healthcare programs, raising concerns, especially for those nearing or in retirement.

    These cuts could have significant ramifications. Medicaid provides crucial coverage for millions, including low-income individuals, pregnant women, children, and people with disabilities. It also plays a vital role in senior long-term care. For Gen X, many now dealing with aging parents’ healthcare needs while planning their own retirements, these cuts could create a perfect storm of financial strain.

    Some argue these changes are fiscally responsible. However, shifting costs to individuals often leads to delayed or forgone care, resulting in poorer health outcomes and potentially higher future costs. For Gen X, already facing a volatile economy and rising healthcare costs, reduced Medicaid benefits add another layer of uncertainty to retirement planning.

    The Center for Medicare Rights article emphasizes staying informed and advocating for vital healthcare programs. It’s crucial to contact representatives and express concerns about the potential impact of these cuts. The future of healthcare for an aging population is at stake, and we must make our voices heard.

  • Don’t get too isolated

    Don’t get too isolated

    Combating Loneliness in Rural Wisconsin: A Call to Action for Generation X and Beyond

    For Generation X, this issue hits close to home. Many members of this generation have aging parents living in rural areas and may be witnessing firsthand the struggles their parents face with loneliness and social isolation. As Generation X begins to enter their own retirement years, they, too, may face similar challenges. The article serves as a reminder of the importance of staying connected with loved ones, especially those living in rural communities. It also highlights the need for developing innovative solutions to combat loneliness and promote social engagement.

    The task force’s work is crucial in addressing this complex issue. By raising awareness, promoting community-based initiatives, and connecting individuals with resources, they are working to create a more supportive environment for rural residents of all ages. This is not just a problem for older adults; it affects the entire community. A strong and connected community benefits everyone, regardless of age.

    What can Generation X do? We can start by checking in on our parents and other older adults in our lives. We can encourage their participation in community activities, exploration of online resources, and connection with others who share their interests. We can also advocate for policies and programs that support rural communities and address the root causes of loneliness. By working together, we can create a future where no one feels alone. We can leverage the technology and community-building skills we have honed over the years to help those in need. Let’s not forget the lessons of our childhoods, where community and connection were often at the heart of rural life.

  • A Beacon of Hope: VCU’s Elder Justice Shelter

    A Beacon of Hope: VCU’s Elder Justice Shelter

    A recent development at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) offers a glimmer of hope in addressing a particularly disturbing aspect of aging: elder abuse.

    Aging is a fact of life. And for many in Generation X, it’s increasingly intertwined with caring for aging parents. As we navigate careers, families, and our own (sometimes reluctant) acceptance of middle age, the well-being of our elders becomes a central focus. Consequently, a recent development at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) offers a glimmer of hope. It addresses a particularly disturbing aspect of aging: elder abuse.

    Specifically, VCU’s College of Health Professions received a substantial grant of nearly $1 million. This funding will establish an elder justice shelter. This crucial initiative, as reported by VCU Health, will provide a safe haven for older adults. These are individuals who have experienced abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

    This news is particularly relevant to Generation X. After all, we are the sandwich generation, caught between caring for our children and our aging parents. Unfortunately, the sad reality is that elder abuse is a growing problem, frequently perpetrated by family members. Therefore, the availability of shelters like the one being established at VCU offers a vital lifeline for vulnerable seniors. It provides them with a safe space and access to necessary resources. Furthermore, it offers some peace of mind for those of us who worry about the well-being of our parents, especially when we can’t be there to provide constant care.

    The VCU shelter will not only provide immediate refuge; it will also connect residents with essential services. These services include medical care, legal assistance, and counseling. Clearly, this holistic approach is critical in helping victims of elder abuse rebuild their lives. Undeniably, it represents a significant step forward in addressing this often-hidden issue. And it offers a much-needed resource for families struggling with these difficult circumstances.

    For Generation X, this news underscores the importance of open communication with our parents about their care and well-being. Moreover, it highlights the need to be vigilant for signs of abuse and to know that resources like this shelter exist. As we navigate the complexities of aging, knowing that there are places where our loved ones can find safety and support is invaluable. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that we are not alone in this journey.

  • Wirecutter Sharpens its Focus: Product Reviews with Accessibility in Mind

    Wirecutter Sharpens its Focus: Product Reviews with Accessibility in Mind

    Whether it’s decreased dexterity, mobility issues, or sensory changes, the products we rely on need to adapt to us, not the other way around.

    Wirecutter gets it. “Most people” excludes many. They’re changing how they review products. This is a big win for Gen X. As we age, our needs change. Products must adapt. Wirecutter now tests with diverse users. They consider disabilities and different body types. This makes their reviews more relevant.

    What does this mean? Wirecutter recruits testers with varying abilities. They include people using mobility aids. They consider those with limited dexterity. They test with visually impaired individuals. Reviews now detail accessibility. They describe product features clearly. This helps readers make informed choices. It’s a huge improvement. The old “one-size-fits-all” approach failed many.

    For Gen X, this is great news. We find products meeting our needs. We make better choices for aging parents. We help loved ones with disabilities. Wirecutter’s inclusivity sets a new standard. Hopefully, other review sites will follow.

  • EODD Area Agency on Aging receives award

    EODD Area Agency on Aging receives award

    Recognizing Excellence in Aging Services: The EODD Area Agency on Aging

    Aging is a journey we all embark on, though perhaps with varying degrees of enthusiasm. For Generation X, the reality of aging is becoming increasingly tangible. While we may still feel like the “slacker” generation in our hearts (a nod to our youth), our bodies and experiences are telling a different story. This makes the work of organizations like the Eastern Oklahoma Development District (EODD) Area Agency on Aging (AAA) all the more critical.

    Recently, the EODD AAA was recognized for its dedication to serving seniors in the region, receiving an award from the Oklahoma Association of Area Agencies on Aging (O4A). This recognition highlights the vital role AAAs play in supporting older adults and connecting them with essential resources. As reported by the Tahlequah Daily Press, the award acknowledges the EODD AAA’s commitment to improving the lives of seniors in their district.

    Area Agencies on Aging are a crucial link for individuals navigating the complexities of aging. They provide a range of services, often including assistance with healthcare, nutrition programs, transportation, and in-home care. For Gen X, many of whom are now caring for aging parents while simultaneously facing their own age-related changes, AAAs can be an invaluable resource. They offer guidance and support, helping individuals and families access the services they need to maintain independence and quality of life.

  • Novelist Tom Robbins has died

    Novelist Tom Robbins has died

    Tom Robbins, the novelist known for books such as “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues” and “Jitterbug Perfume”, has died at age 92.


    Story and video on King5.

  • California’s Master Plan for Aging: 2025 Update

    California’s Master Plan for Aging: 2025 Update

    California is facing a rapidly growing older adult population.

    To address this demographic shift, the state launched the Master Plan for Aging (MPA) in 2021. The MPA is a 10-year plan with a vision for an age- and ability-forward California by 2030. In 2025, the MPA was refreshed with new initiatives and renewed commitments to support older Californians.

    The California Department of Aging (CDA) recently released the Fourth Master Plan for Aging Annual Report and the 2025-26 MPA Initiatives. These documents highlight progress and outline the focus for the next two years. The MPA now includes 81 new initiatives across its five goals: Housing, Health, Inclusion & Equity, Caregiving, and Affording Aging. These initiatives address critical areas like expanding access to affordable senior housing, improving healthcare, supporting family caregivers, and promoting economic security .  

    The 2025-26 initiatives emphasize collaboration with counties to implement the MPA effectively. This includes supporting Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and strengthening Adult Protective Services. The MPA is committed to using data to track progress and ensure accountability . The MPA Implementation Tracker, a publicly available database, allows stakeholders to monitor the progress of each initiative.  

    The MPA continues to prioritize five key goals: creating more affordable and accessible housing options, improving the health and well-being of older adults, ensuring that all older adults have equal opportunities to age with dignity, supporting family caregivers, and promoting economic security.

    The MPA is a dynamic plan that evolves with the changing needs of California’s older adults . The 2025 update demonstrates the state’s ongoing commitment to creating a California for All Ages, where older adults can thrive and age with dignity.

  • Can Sensory Stimulation Improve Sleep and Protect Our Aging Brains?

    Can Sensory Stimulation Improve Sleep and Protect Our Aging Brains?

    We all know sleep is crucial for cognitive function. But as we age, both sleep quality and cognitive health can decline. Could there be a non-invasive way to address both?

    A fascinating new MIT project explores the potential of sensory stimulation to improve sleep and preserve cognitive health. This research, highlighted in a recent Longevity Technology article, offers hope for Generation X. We’re starting to notice subtle (and not-so-subtle) changes that come with aging.

    The MIT project focuses on gentle sensory stimulation, like sounds or vibrations, during sleep. The goal is to enhance specific brainwave activity associated with deep sleep. Deep sleep is essential for memory consolidation and overall cognitive function. Researchers are investigating whether this targeted stimulation can improve sleep quality and cognitive performance.

    The implications of this research are huge. As we navigate mid-life and beyond, maintaining cognitive sharpness is a top priority. If sensory stimulation proves effective, it could offer a non-pharmaceutical approach to combat age-related cognitive decline and improve sleep quality. For a generation that grew up with personal computers and now faces an aging world, this innovative research is particularly relevant. We’re at an age where proactive steps for health and well-being are increasingly important.

    The Longevity Technology article emphasizes the early stages of this research. But the potential is undeniable. Imagine a future where a simple, non-invasive device could help us achieve deeper, more restorative sleep and protect our cognitive abilities as we age. It’s a future worth exploring.

  • The Looming Food Crisis: How Federal Funding Cuts Could Impact Our Aging Parents

    The Looming Food Crisis: How Federal Funding Cuts Could Impact Our Aging Parents

    Meals on wheels facing funding cuts

    The news from Thousand Oaks, California, is troubling for anyone concerned about food security, particularly for our aging population. A pause in federal funding could significantly impact the Conejo Valley Senior Nutrition Program, a critical resource providing meals to local seniors. According to a recent article in the Thousand Oaks Acorn, this funding freeze could jeopardize the program’s ability to provide nutritious meals, potentially leaving many seniors struggling to access adequate food.

    A Lifeline for Seniors

    The Senior Nutrition Program isn’t just a meal delivery service; it’s a lifeline. For many older adults, especially those on fixed incomes or with limited mobility, these meals are essential for maintaining health and independence. The potential loss of this service raises serious concerns about the well-being of our community’s seniors. It’s not just about having food; it’s about having access to nutritious food, designed to meet the specific dietary needs of older adults.

    The Sandwich Generation’s Concerns

    For those of us in Generation X, this news hits close to home. We’re the sandwich generation, often juggling the demands of our own families with the increasing needs of our aging parents. The prospect of our parents facing food insecurity adds another layer of stress and worry. We’re already concerned about their healthcare, housing, and overall well-being. Now, we may have to scramble to find alternative solutions to ensure they have access to nutritious meals. This could mean increased financial burdens, more time spent caring for them, or difficult decisions about their care.

    The Importance of Community Support and Planning

    This situation highlights the vulnerability of seniors to changes in federal funding. It underscores the importance of community support and advocacy for programs that serve our aging population. It also serves as a wake-up call for us, the generation facing our own aging journey, to start planning for the future and considering the resources that will be available. We need to be proactive in supporting programs that benefit seniors, not just for our parents, but for ourselves as we age.

    A Call to Action

    The Acorn article rightly points out the potential consequences of this funding pause. It’s a situation we need to be paying close attention to, and one that should prompt us to ask: What can we do to ensure that our community’s seniors are not left behind? How can we, as a generation, support the programs that provide essential services to our parents and prepare ourselves for the challenges of aging? These are questions we need to be asking, and acting on, now.