What's New
News and updates on DHS efforts that support seniors.
SNAP participants can stretch dollars further at farmers' markets
For the fourth consecutive year, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants can stretch their dollars further with a special incentive from Blue Cross Blue Shield that matches Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card purchases with up to an additional $5 in Market Bucks each market day. Market Bucks can be used during the same trip or anytime during the 2013 farmers' market season on SNAP-eligible purchases. More information is in a story about Market Bucks.
Age & Disabilities Odyssey set for June 17, 18 in Duluth
“Framework for the Future” is the theme of the 2013 Age & Disabilities Odyssey, which is being held at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center June 17 and 18. Issues facing aging Minnesotans, people with disabilities and caregivers and services that support them will be explored at the conference. New features this year include pre-conference intensive sessions, most of which are free and open to the public. More information about the conference is online.
2013 spring flooding emergency preparedness resources online
As some areas of the state may face flooding this spring, individuals, families and caregivers of seniors can take steps to prepare for floods and other emergencies. Being prepared can increase your ability to care for yourself and others during a disaster. More information on emergency preparedness for seniors and their families is online.
Simplified application launched for seniors to access healthy food
To increase seniors’ access to nutritious foods, the Minnesota Department of Human Services announced the launch of a new one-page application for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for Minnesotans age 60 and older. More information is in a news release about the SNAP application for seniors.
Nursing Home Report Card revamped for easier use
A more user-friendly Nursing Home Report Card with more detailed information (including daily payment rates) on Minnesota nursing facilities has been introduced by DHS and the Minnesota Department of Health. The Nursing Home Report Card, at nhreportcard.dhs.mn.gov, helps consumers compare the quality of care in nursing homes across the state. More information is in a news release about the report card.
Staff share commitment to performance measurement
Top state leaders recently heard about efforts in the DHS Continuing Care Administration to measure progress toward such policy goals as helping seniors return to their homes after a nursing home stay and helping people with disabilities move to homes of their own. DHS Commissioner Lucinda Jesson introduced the team to her colleagues at Gov. Mark Dayton’s senior leadership meeting Oct. 9, calling Continuing Care’s work a model for the rest of the agency. More information is in a story about the performance measurements efforts.
Projects funded to help older Minnesotans stay at home
Strategies to help Minnesotans stay in their homes and remain vital members of their communities as they grow old will be implemented this year through $2.3 million in state grants. Helping Minnesotans remain independent also saves the state dollars by making sure nursing home care is reserved for those who need more intensive services. More information is in a news release about the projects.
SNAP participation extended to farmer’s markets
The University of Minnesota Extension Office, partnering with DHS, recently sent information to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants in Minnesota to encourage nutritious and balanced diets. Along with providing healthy recipes and suggestions for how to incorporate fruits and vegetables into their diets, the mailing (PDF) also featured details about how to use Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards at certain Minnesota farmer’s markets throughout the state. More information is in a story about the expansion.
DHS launches ApplyMN online application
Minnesotans in need of health care, nutrition assistance, child care assistance and emergency assistance can now apply online through ApplyMN, applymn.dhs.mn.gov. This new site allows Minnesotans for the first time to fill out a single application online for a majority of public assistance programs.
One Stop Shop for Seniors expansion announced
To kick off Older Americans Month, Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon announced the launch of SHARE Minnesota, part of the One Stop Shop for Minnesota Seniors and administered through the Senior LinkAge Line® and Minnesota Board on Aging. SHARE Minnesota is a virtual network of agencies that can help find volunteer opportunities for seniors who want to volunteer but may not know where to go. More information is in a story about the expansion.
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