Representatives of the Lutheran Services in America – Disability Network flew to Washington last week armed with stories and shared best practices, outcomes, and challenges that allowed them to advocate for the people we serve, the people we employ, and for our industry. Advocacy an important part of our jobs, writes Lisa Morgan, but just as important are the relationships we build with each other while speaking up for those we serve.
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota continues to innovate and grow its services — in order to keep up with the needs and demographics of the people it supports and serves. Expanding our work through technology was, in part, made possible through Lutheran Services in America’s Great Plains Senior Services Collaborative, which has been generously supported by a national foundation with a keen understanding and interest in addressing the health and wellness needs of our rural seniors and communities with limited resources.
The Great Plains Senior Services Collaborative held a first-ever training conference for leadership and program staff in Montana. Led by Lutheran Services in America, the Collaborative supports underserved rural communities, connecting vulnerable older adults to services and supports they need to enhance their quality of life and maintain their independence.
Lutheran Services in America rejects any legislative proposal to cut, cap, or block grant Medicaid. Such changes would reduce access, stymie innovation, and decrease Medicaid enrollment. CMS must rescind its guidance suggesting states apply for such “1115 waivers.”
Older Americans comprise an especially vulnerable group after hospitalization. The millions of older adults who transition from post-acute care to their homes annually are dependent on caregivers for three to six activities of daily living once they return home. Yet in their efforts to get and stay well, too many patients and their caregivers don’t fully understand the extent of the patient’s needs in the critical time following acute care. The good news is a clear opportunity exists to view the challenge of transitional care and recuperating seniors’ needs through a new lens.
