Medicare + Aging 7/29

Another Problem on the Health Horizon: Medicare Is Running Out of Money
By Julie Rovner With millions out of work because of the coronavirus pandemic, fewer payroll taxes are coming in to help keep Medicare’s trust fund intact.

KHN’s ‘What The Health?’: Trump Twists on Virus Response
President Donald Trump has, for now at least, become a realist on the extent of the COVID-19 crisis around the country, and he is urging Americans to socially distance and wear masks. Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, Republicans facing a July 31 deadline are scrambling to come together on their version of the next COVID relief bill. Joanne Kenen of Politico, Margot Sanger-Katz of The New York Times and Tami Luhby of CNN join KHN’s Julie Rovner to discuss this and more. Also, Rovner interviews NPR’s Pam Fessler, author of the new book “Carville’s Cure,” which traces the history of the United States’ only federal leprosarium.

‘More Than Physical Health’: Gym Helps 91-Year-Old Battle Isolation
By Heidi de Marco For Art Ballard, the local gym was like his second home. The 91-year-old former jeweler relied on his near-daily workouts to stay healthy and for social interaction. But when California instituted its stay-at-home order, Ballard’s physical health suffered. So did his mental health.

‘I Couldn’t Let Her Be Alone’: A Peaceful Death Amid the COVID Scourge
By JoNel Aleccia For three years, staffers at UCLA Health have been quietly fulfilling final wishes for dying patients in the intensive care unit. Amid the isolating forces of the pandemic, their work has become all the more meaningful.

What Seniors Should Know Before Going Ahead With Elective Procedures
By Judith Graham People who put off care as COVID-19 surged are easing back into the medical system. Here’s how to know if it’s safe.

Technology Divide Between Senior ‘Haves’ and ‘Have-Nots’ Roils Pandemic Response
By Judith Graham Older adults with the ability to use technology have more access to virtual social interactions and telehealth services, and more opportunities to secure essential supplies online. Those who don’t know how to use it or can’t afford it are at greater risk of social isolation, forgoing medical care and being without food or other necessary items.

States Allow In-Person Nursing Home Visits As Families Charge Residents Die ‘Of Broken Hearts’
By Judith Graham Half the states are rolling back strict policies that have kept family members out of nursing homes because of fears of spreading the coronavirus.

Life Beyond COVID Seclusion: Seniors See Challenges And Change Ahead
By Judith Graham Some are grieving the loss of precious time in late life. Others are adjusting their ideas of what is possible and making the best of it.