shAARP Talk: Observations from AARP

This week saw the unveiling of two online forums that the Presidential candidates are using to talk about the issues. One, which began on Thursday, brought to us by MySpace and MTV- click here to check it out.

The other, organized by the Federation of American Hospitals and Families USA, feature candidates being interviewed by a panel of prominent journalists from ABC News, National Public Radio, the Wall Street Journal, and the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer. Click here to see more.

If you’re already feeling guilty about not doing your exercise this morning, be sure to check out this great AP story about the 59-year old college football player. It will only make you feel worse. Mike Flynt, at nearly 60, is starting on Saturday as his team, the Sul State Lobos, battle Howard Payne. I’ll be sure to keep you posted on Flynt’s progress.

Washington Post: Following Bush Over a Cliff

If ever there was a crowd-pleaser of a bill, this is it. Hundreds of organizations -- grass-roots groups ranging from AARP to United Way of America and the national YMCA -- have called on Bush to sign the bill. America's Health Insurance Plans, the largest insurance lobbying group, endorsed the bill on Monday.

Associated Press: Bloomberg: No One Has Health Care Answers

Mayor Michael Bloomberg, a potential presidential candidate, said none of the White House contenders has offered a health care plan that works, and he suggested that socialized medicine "may not be all that bad."

Associated Press: Iraq conflict tops Democratic debate agenda

Foreign policy blended with domestic issues at the debate on a Dartmouth College stage, and several of the contenders endorsed payroll tax increases to assure a stable Social Security system.

Sen. Joseph Biden of Delaware and Rep. Dennis Kucinich of Ohio, as well as Dodd, Obama, Edwards all said they would apply the tax to income now exempted.

Richardson said he wouldn't and Clinton refused to say. "I'm not putting anything on the proverbial table" unilaterally, she said.

Marketwatch: In pursuit of the future

Most retirement gurus are extremely pessimistic about the future. Some are modestly hopeful. But there is one who is "wildly optimistic" about what's in store for the millions upon millions of aging baby boomers.

Washington Post: House Passes Children's Health Bill

Indeed, the compromise worked out between the House and the Senate has garnered the support of the health insurance industry, AARP, the American Medical Association, governors from both parties and a platoon of children's health advocates.

The Hill: A bipartisan approach to America’s greatest fiscal challenge

As senators from different political parties, it is true that we do not always agree on fiscal policy. But we do agree on this: Our nation will soon confront one of its greatest fiscal challenges, and it is our responsibility as elected leaders to work together today on a solution that will best serve American citizens and the long-term health of the economy.

New York Times: To Keep Health Plans, Many Firms Shift Costs

Health insurance premiums have been rising faster than the rate of inflation for years. Lack of health coverage has become a major issue in the presidential race. Yet somehow, 59 percent of small businesses provide some kind of insurance, according to a recent survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

Marketwatch: Five ways to streamline your finances

Whether you're a financial newbie or just a late bloomer, it pays to follow MSN Money columnist Liz Pulliam Weston's five laws of basic money management.

Marketwatch: Mature employees wanted

With brands like Shout, Windex and Scrubbing Bubbles under its name, SC Johnson certainly should be one of the cleanest companies to work for. But on Tuesday, AARP acknowledged the company for a different reason: its policies and practices that make it the best workplace for those over the age of 50.

AFP: Keep older workers or face skills gap: study

Industrialized nations must convince older workers to stay on the job beyond retirement age or face a skills shortage and higher labour costs, a study released Tuesday warned.

Associated Press: Bush Admin. Urges Social Security Fix

Paulson, Bush's point person on Social Security reform, said he has had a number of discussions with members of Congress from both parties over the issue of fixing the problems in Social Security with the looming retirement of 78 million baby boomers.

Washington Post: GOP Senator Says Bush Should Put Health Bill Before Policy Goal

A senior Senate Republican accused President Bush yesterday of holding a bipartisan expansion of the popular State Children's Health Insurance Program hostage to his broader policy goals of using tax deductions to help people afford private health insurance coverage.

Good news – despite how you might feel at work today, there are lots of employers that are working to try and keep employees who are 50+. With incentives like flexible hours, generous benefits, onsite medical services, and tuition reimbursement, you may want to check out the list.

AP: Five Democrats discuss health care in IA

Five Democratic presidential candidates pledged during an AARP forum Thursday night to spend more on health care and bolster retirement programs crucial to politically potent seniors.

Washington Post: Veto Threat Angers Republicans

But members of both parties countered that it is the president who is putting children's health in jeopardy. They said most Americans, including many GOP governors and groups such as AARP, support the expansion of the program's enrollment to about 10 million children from 6.6 million now.

Wall Street Journal: Gloomy About Republicans, Gingrich Still Might Run

McCain plans to roll out "comprehensive approach" on Oct. 11, including changes in tax code, regulations and government programs. Though weeks away from presenting his version, Thompson is expected to propose tax breaks for small businesses and individuals to buy insurance.

Echoing Giuliani, Thompson would let consumers buy insurance across state lines in search of best deal. "Health care's never been prominent in a Republican primary like it is this year," says a Thompson aide, noting increased business interest.

Politico: Clinton: I'm not what you think

She went on: “There are some issues, like privatizing Social Security, that are not going to go anywhere when I am president. But looking for ways we can enhance retirement security, protect Social Security, that is absolutely open for debate and discussion.”

Hispanic blogs are abuzz here and here with the latest about older Hispanics- they need Social Security and without it, more than half would be barely be able to have a decent standard of living (ie. poverty level). With companies running away from pensions obligations faster than a speeding bullet and folks not planning or saving for retirement, it makes reforming Social Security for generations to come even more important. It also makes it even more important to help people save for their future. Something like an automatic IRA would help people. Even if you saved as little as 1 percent of your salary, it adds up.

Update 3:40 PM: Original research here.

Quad City Times: Democrats to focus on health care and financial security

Tonight’s Divided We Fail Democratic presidential forum at the Adler Theatre may be just one in a line of debates this campaign season.

But its focus on health care and financial security issues means it will zero in on a potent set of topics.

The Hill: Absence of Medicare provisions in SCHIP bill changes the stakes

The AARP and the American Medical Association (AMA) this week launched another round of their joint advertising campaign on SCHIP and Medicare. The ads caution Congress against putting off action the physician payment cut until the “11th hour.” The advertisements are scheduled to run during the SCHIP debate and through the end of the month.

Washington Post: Your 401(k) Giveaway

"With Americans more responsible than ever for making better choices to secure their financial futures, financial literacy and an understanding about those decisions is increasingly important," said David Certner, legislative counsel and policy director for AARP.

Wall Street Journal: Americans Want Leaders to Address Coverage for Uninsured, Poll Shows

A new poll shows providing health-insurance coverage for more Americans is a top priority for U.S. adults and a majority believe it is the government's duty to ensure all Americans have adequate coverage.

Today the CDC, AARP, and AMA have unleashed a big media blitz to encourage Americans to get their flu shots this fall. I don't need to tell you it's gonna hurt. The good news? You'll get a lollipop and you won't get the flu this winter.

Today, the oldest man in the world turns 112. It should be noted, the world’s oldest person is a woman. And she’s 114.

Mr. Tanabe’s longevity is attributed to not drinking or smoking, and this AP story notes, to guzzling milk.

Who knew?

Wall Street Journal: Retiring With a Mortgage? Here's What You Should Do

Even before the recent debt-driven housing boom and bust, the numbers were getting ugly. Among households headed by someone age 65 to 74, over 32% had a mortgage on their primary residence in 2004, up from less than 19% in 1992, according to the Federal Reserve.

Chicago Tribune: San Francisco launches universal health care

The plan, which began in pilot form in July and expanded citywide this week, is the first attempt by a U.S. city to tackle the health care crisis on its own, albeit with the assistance of state and federal funds.

Chicago Tribune: 'An incredibly bleak picture'

As developmentally disabled Baby Boomers live longer, their long-term care becomes a burden for their aging family members.

Marketwatch: Limit your risk of identity theft

Identity theft strikes nearly 10 million Americans each year, says a 2003 study by the Federal Trade Commission. While there's no way to guarantee that you won't become one of the victims, you can minimize your risk by following these six simple rules.

Update from CQ here, but lots of drama in Congress today on SCHIP, the State Children’s Health Insurance Program. Congress is close to a reauthorization deal, but it's just not enough when you consider that a whole lotta people who are 65 plus can't afford their drugs and may lose access to their own doctors next year. It’s especially lousy when you consider that if you're on Medicare, your premiums have doubled since 2000. Now I know health care costs are expensive, but it can’t be easy for people who have limited incomes.

Reaction from AARP: Joining with the American Medical Association to run a new round of joint advertisements in DC, asking Congress not to defer Medicare improvements until the last minute. Will post ‘em once I see ‘em.

And so are the days of our lives…

A study out today shows 70 percent of baby boomers bought music last year and account for one in three CDs purchased last year. Study was done by the NPD group for AARP and the National Association of Record Merchandisers.

Also, one and four boomers are buying online. With 76 million of them (boomers), it’s a good thing we don’t have to worry about Tony Bennett or Aretha Franklin being out of stock. Whew.

Stateline: States help seniors age at home

“Most people want to remain at home, but whether they have money or not, they simply don’t know where to turn for home-based long-term care,” said Susan Reinhard of AARP. “Ironically, people who can afford home services are the ones most often left in the dark.”

Christian Science Monitor: Automatic IRAs present risks, opportunities

About 75 million US workers have no access to employer-sponsored retirement plans, according to a recent study commissioned by AARP. The study predicts that 48 million of these workers could see increased retirement savings if the proposed legislation were to become law.

Washington Post: Clinton Presents Plan For Universal Coverage

Similar to proposals offered by her chief Democratic rivals, former senator John Edwards (N.C.) and Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.), Clinton's plan -- with an estimated $110 billion annual price tag -- would seek to build on the existing health-care system but would make it easier for adults without health insurance to buy it through tax credits.

USA Today: Clinton unveils details of her health care plan

Leavitt told the USA TODAY editorial board that Bush will veto a Democratic plan emerging from Congress that would add $35 billion in taxpayer subsidies to the Children's Health Insurance Program over five years. In doing so, Leavitt said, Bush will urge Congress to join him in seeking coverage for all Americans.

"He'd like to see the larger debate begin," Leavitt said. "The very best opportunity we have may well be in the next 15 months."

According to a report from the Today Show on Saturday, women are forgoing the dye jobs and going au natural. Even better, NBC is encouraging it. “Embrace your age. Own it. Be 50 and be proud to be your age.”

I say: We’ve come a long way, baby.

Click here for video and here for the opportunity to submit your pics.

Wall Street Journal: How Old Are You? As Old as Your Skills.

"There continue to be the same stereotypes about older workers, such as they're not willing to try new things and don't have the experience with technology," says Deborah Russell, director of work-force issues at AARP, the large Washington-based advocacy group for older adults.

BusinessWeek: The Politics of Health-Care Reform

With health-care costs rising and 47 million uninsured in the U.S., Presidential candidates talk about reforming the system. Few have detailed proposals.

Newsweek: Early Retirement: Start Planning Now

To retire early—by choice and with enough money to last for life—takes planning that stretches back into your 40s and 30s.

Washington Post: Brave New Boomers

Jurisdictions are also hiring retrofit specialists and contemplating programs to teach seniors how to modify their homes so they can continue to live in them -- the preference of 89 percent of seniors surveyed by the AARP last year. "They all tell us they want to stay in their homes as long as possible," said Elinor Ginzler, director of livable communities for AARP.

Think McCain’s too old to be President? Think again.

The Chicago Tribune’s Steven Chapman asked in a column last week whether John McCain is too old to be President. Philadelphia’s own Alfred Gilbert today answered the question with a reality check.

AARP is non-partisan, but we'll defend any candidate – young or old – who is unfairly targeted because of their age. Anyone who thinks leadership is limited by age should look no further than Winston Churchill, who led the United Kingdom to victory in World War II in 1945 – when he was 70 years-old!

Original Chapman piece here.

Some pics from Times Square of the Presidential candidates addressing our members at Life@50+. Guess we weren’t the only ones lucky enough to catch a glimpse!

Miami Herald / McClatchy: GOP's Thompson stays course on Fla. tour

And though he touched on virtually every theme, it wasn't enough for 54-year-old Linda Ostroski, a volunteer with . . . "Divided We Fall” effort who was unable to ask the candidate what his plan was for lowering healthcare costs and helping more people get health insurance.

"It would have been helpful for him to address the one issue that plagues everyone in this country," she said after his Jacksonville speech.

New York Times: San Francisco to Offer Care for Every Uninsured Adult

The initiative, known as Healthy San Francisco, is the first effort by a locality to guarantee care to all of its uninsured, and it represents the latest attempt by state and local governments to patch a inadequate federal system.

CNN / Money Magazine: Forever young

Boomers are imagining the American dream all over again, a new Money Magazine survey reveals. Topping the agenda: closer relationships and more fun. And, oh yeah, they want to change the world.

Washington Post: Still Working After All These Years

The trend is national: From 2000 to 2006, the proportion of the nation's 65- to 74-year-olds who remained in the labor force increased from nearly one in five to one in four, according to census figures released this week.

We’re heading into debate season, as if we are not already there!

AARP and IPTV are holding two candidate forums in IA focused on health and financial security, on September 20th and October 25th. The 9/20 event is being held in Davenport and includes Clinton, Dodd, Edwards, Biden and Richardson. The 10/25 will be held in Sioux City and right now McCain and Huckabee have RSVPed yes. Judy Woodruff is hosting and the debate will be carried across the country on 250 plus stations.

Release from AARP here and IPTV here. Let’s hope they actually say something about the issues that impact us every day.

Wall Street Journal: Supplementing Social Security

The problem is clear: This isn't a nation of savers.

Forbes: Next Generation Retirement

The good news and the bad news is that your retirement well-being is largely in your own hands.

Wall Street Journal: Making Sense of Retirement Plans

Besides their homes, retirement-savings accounts are the only significant investment many of my family members have, so I'm happy to help.

Associated Press: Easy ways to 'elderproof' homes

For an elderly person, the home can be a dangerous place, with accidents waiting to happen.

From today’s Washington Post chat, a great reminder that these issues are not just something for those who are 50 and over to be concerned about… everyone can only hope they’re lucky enough to worry about enjoying the second half of your life.

Washington, D.C.: First all, thank you for taking the time to respond to my inquiry. I am concerned about the financial affairs of my parents whom are both in their early 50s but as of now do not have a dime saved for retirement. They still have about 120K left on their mortgage. Because they do not have any savings after my dad lost his job and putting four kids through school they have discussed worst case scenario would be to sell the house and downgrade in 10 years if necessary. They now both work descent jobs making about 45K each. What would you recommend they do now to start preparing to retire comfortably. Thank you.

Click here to see the answer.

Looks like the Walshes enjoyed themselves. Thanks Laurie and Brian!

In today’s Washington Post, there’s a fantastic section, 50+ that highlights the baby boomers.

It covers all the bases: how the boomers are redefining aging, how they see “old” as being 10-15 year away, and the more serious stuff related to health, finances, and health care.

Lots of live chats too, check them out here.

Check out the interesting post on my DD today about the importance of the 50-plus population when it comes to voting.

It is true that one in four voters is an AARP member. The power of this constituency is also seen in the primary states– 11.8 million. In IA, we have 385,000 members; in NV we have 321,000; in NH almost 234,000; in SC 547,000; and in FL almost 2.9 million.

Bottom line: This is a lot of people and the candidates need to step up a pay attention to the issues these voters care about. A recent poll of our members tells us what those issues are: health and financial security.

Today's daytime events ended with the 2011 Council, named for the first year that the baby boomers turn 65. This year, Morgan Fairchild, Thomas Oliphant, Robert Reich, David Walker, and AARP's Hugh Delahanty and John Rother talked about lifetime health and financial security.

An interesting observation from today's discussion and follow up questions: No matter how old, no matter your financial circumstances, people are concerned about these issues and not only worry about themselves, they worry about their children and if it is possible for them to enjoy their lives as they age.

I was talking to Tom Oliphant backstage before the event and he commented to me that he had kids in their 30's and because of this he was concerned about our financial future as a nation. This was another sentiment that was clear as the 90 minute discussion unfolded.

Some pictures below. Bottom line, people care about these issues. Now it is time for action by those who can do something about them.

I didn't get up at the crack of dawn like the first person in line for today's closing ceremonies (she was there at 6 am), but I did manage to catch Richard Simmons working out with a packed room of AARP members at 7:30. Spotted a line of close to a hundred enthusiastic fans waiting for a photo with the fitness guru and the volunteer manning the door was doing the workout while greeting guests.

After the workout, caught Whoopi Goldberg and Maya Angelou in what Angelou called a "Love Conversation" for the closing session. They talked about cooking, driving, and lotsa other fun stuff. Turns out Angelou bought herself a Rolls Royce for her 79th birthday and also got two pretty men to drive it. Not bad.

Today, former Governor Mike Huckabee and Senator Hillary Clinton talked to AARP members about health care and financial security, two issues we know are important to AARP members. Huckabee and Clinton both mentioned AARP's Divided We Fail effort and how important these issues are for the candidates to discuss.

Sometimes the fare was light, such as when Governor Huckabee reminded us that he was a member. But things were serious when both candidates talked about the importance of going beyond politics.

"It's time to go beyond politics as usual. There are not Republicans or Democratic solutions to the problems we face," said Senator Clinton.

Huckabee also piped in, "I am a former Governor and didn't have the luxury of being an ideologue."

All the major presidential candidates were invited to address the event.

The hottest ticket in Boston today? Joan and Melissa Rivers. They were hysterical and so was the overflow crowd that couldn't fit into the 3400 seats in the venue. The mob was soon subdued, however, by screens everywhere carrying the Joan and Melissa show.

When asked for advice on turning 50, Joan Rivers deadpanned, "Never tell a man that... but 50 IS the new 40!"

I wandered around the massive convention floor late yesterday and early today. With nearly 500 exhibitions, there’s a lot to see.

Some my favorites so far:

Nintendo. How cool is it that I get to play Wii in the middle of a workday? We even got to try some yoga and do some aerobics (even after LL worked us to the bone) on the virtual balance board. Much more fun than the gym.

It’s a good thing I worked out, since my next stop was the M.I.T. Media Lab’s personal R2D2. I had to tell R2 what I ate, how much I exercised. His advice, “Keep it up.”

This morning, I joined hundreds of AARP members for a morning workout with
musician, actor, author and super fit LL Cool J.

He rocked the bodies of our members and staff alike, providing words of fitness
inspiration for anyone between 18 and 80. LL’s words of wisdom, “Dreams don’t
have deadlines”.

He's here to get us moving a little more and highlight his new book, LL
Cool J's Platinum Workout: Sculpt Your Best Body Ever with Hollywood's Fittest
Star.

Check out the pics below. As you can see, he may be Hollywood's fittest star. Also, see at this morning's workout, make-up artist Bobbi Brown.

An entertaining Q and A from Brian Dennehey this afternoon in Boston with AARP the Magazine's Steve Slon. Some photos below; my favorite comment from Dennehey was, "AARP, I qualify."