Angela McMann

The commission held a session covering agency updates, including accomplishments of the BOLD program and activities by DAIL, and a legislative update regarding dementia care initiatives and the Older Vermonters Caucus. A lived experience panel was introduced to share perspectives on dementia. The Professional Education Opportunities Committee reported on its activities, focusing on developing curriculum standards for dementia care. Additionally, the committee discussed the revitalizing of the caregiver support committee and established the meeting schedule for the remainder of the year.

This document outlines the Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL)'s improvement and action steps to enhance Vermont's Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) home and community-based services system. Developed as part of the State's Comprehensive Quality Strategy (CQS), the plan focuses on strengthening compliance with federal Home and Community Based Services standards, particularly regarding person-centered planning and setting requirements. Key initiatives include updating policies and provider manuals, conducting self-assessments, soliciting stakeholder feedback, and providing training and technical assistance to ensure improved service delivery and outcomes for individuals with TBI.

The commission reviewed Alzheimer's and healthy aging data, specifically regarding care settings and long-term care distinctions. Agency updates included a BOLD grant application overview to support screening, diagnosis, and care infrastructure, as well as a 2023 legislative update regarding priorities such as an adult day payment increase. A panel discussion focused on building infrastructure for dementia support, including various caregiver support programs like TCARE, TRUALTA, and resources for veterans' caregivers. Additionally, the meeting addressed the committee structure for professional education opportunities.

This presentation, titled 'Reframing Aging,' advocates for a societal shift in perception and discourse surrounding aging. It aims to combat ageism by emphasizing the substantial economic, social, and intellectual contributions of older adults, referred to as the 'Longevity Economy.' The strategic initiatives presented from Minnesota, New York, and Vermont focus on developing age-friendly policies, planning, and programs that promote healthy aging, independence, and social engagement within communities. The overarching vision is to cultivate environments where individuals of all ages are valued and respected.

This document outlines the Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living's (DAIL) improvement and action steps to strengthen Vermont's Choices for Care home and community-based services system. It addresses areas of weakness identified in the State's Comprehensive Quality Strategy, specifically regarding person-centered planning and home- and community-based settings standards. The plan focuses on regulatory compliance and enhanced person-centered planning for Home-Based Settings (Adult Family Care and Adult Day) and Non-home-based Enhanced Residential Care settings.