Challenging Ageist Language in Rhode Island – Herb Weiss

Seniors engaging in a group activity with smiles and focus.

Rep. Carson’s Bill Challenges Ageist Language in Rhode Island Statutes By Herb Weiss, contributing writer on aging issues During the 93rd Legislative Session, a law enacted in Massachusetts caught the attention of Lauren H. Carson (D-Dist. 75, Newport), who chairs the House Study Commission on Services for Older Rhode Islanders (HSCORI). Carson was convinced of…

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Rhode Island PR Campaign to Reduce Older Adult Overdoses – Herb Weiss

An elderly man reflects on injury recovery support from Overdose Lifeline RI.

State’s Evidence-Based PR Campaign Aims to Reduce Older Adult Overdoses By Herb Weiss, contributing writer on aging  Four months ago, the State of Rhode Island joined an estimated 5,000 community coalitions across the nation and U.S. territories to participate in the 2025 National Substance Use and Misuse Prevention Month. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration…

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If you want a friend in Washington, get a furry friend – Herb Weiss

A black dog lying on gravel near a person's feet.

By Herb Weiss, contributing writer on senior issues With an increasing number of adults reporting a decrease in the number of close friends, the old adage, “If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog,†might also be applicable outside the Beltway.  This companionship can also boost your physical and mental health. Your furry friends’…

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Pandemic Lessons: “Essential Caregivers Act” Can’t Wait. A Merciful, Bipartisan Bill for a Voiceless Population – Herb Weiss

A neatly made bed with floral-patterned sheets in a bright, cozy room.

By Herb Weiss, contributing writer, aging issues As COVID-19 spread rapidly across the country in March 2020 entering nursing homes largely through community transmission and staff movement the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued guidance calling for nationwide visitor bans in nursing homes. These strict restrictions barred all visitors and non-essential health care…

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2025: A Year on the “Age Beat” in Rhode Island – Herb Weiss

herb weiss on aging

By Herb Weiss, contributing writer, issues on aging Throughout 2025, this “Age Beat†columnist published a weekly commentary covering an extensive list of aging, healthcare, and medical issues. During this year, this columnist followed Congressional debates inside the Beltway involving Medicare, Medicaid, reauthorization of the Older Americans Act, and Social Security, reporting on how these…

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