This November, the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) recognizes November as National Family Caregivers Month and this year’s theme: “Plug into Care”. MDHS invites caregivers to connect with support tools, networks and educational resources that can make caregiving more meaningful and manageable.

This month serves as a reminder of the role that caregivers play in supporting and caring for older adults and individuals with disabilities. It also highlights the importance of staying connected to resources, support networks and self-care.

In Mississippi, thousands of caregivers devote their time and energy to ensuring the safety and well-being of loved ones and vulnerable members of our community. Through the Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS), MDHS offers programs thatsupport caregivers by providing access to respite care, education, counseling and local programs designed to support our aging population.

“During National Family Caregivers Month, we honor the strength, compassion, and selfless dedication of those who care for their loved ones every day,” said KenYada Blake-Washington, Director of the MDHS Division of Aging and Adult Services. “Family caregivers are the backbone of our communities, ensuring that older adults and individuals with disabilities can live with dignity and independence. The Mississippi State Unit on Aging proudly celebrates and supports the invaluable contributions of caregivers across our state.”

The “Plug into Care” theme encourages caregivers to stay connected, not only to their loved ones but also to community resources that can ease the daily challenges of caregiving. MDHS continues to partner with Area Agencies on Aging and community organizations statewide to promote caregiver well-being through training, support groups and respite opportunities.

 The Mississippi Family Caregiver Support Program works in partnership with 10 Area Agencies on Aging and local service providers to deliver five essential services for family caregivers:

• Information about available services
• Assistance in accessing services
• Individual counseling, organization of support groups, and caregiver training to help caregivers make informed decisions and solve problems related to their caregiving roles
• Respite care temporarily relieves caregivers of their responsibilities
• Supplemental services, on a limited basis, to complement the care provided by caregivers

This November, MDHS encourages all Mississippians to celebrate caregivers by offering a word of encouragement, lending a helping hand or just taking a moment to say thank you.

For additional information on Family Caregiver Support Program and other programs available for adults and seniors, visit MDHS Aging & Adult Services.

Medicare open enrollment is October 15, 2025 through December 7, 2025. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) helps eligible Mississippians navigate the choices available for joining, switching, or updating their Medicare health plan or prescription drug coverage to better meet their needs in 2025. 

SHIP offers in-person and phone-based counseling to support Medicare-eligible Mississippians in understanding and navigating available coverage options. Even if satisfied with their current plans, individuals should regularly review their coverage and make necessary adjustments to ensure it remains as effective as possible. 

Whether it is Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental insurance, or other coverage, SHIP personnel are trained to answer questions, compare policies, organize paperwork, and help with claims and filing appeals. 

According to Mississippi Department of Human Services Executive Director Robert “Bob” Anderson, “Providing Mississippi residents with reliable information is crucial for helping them make informed decisions about their health insurance during open enrollment. The Division of Aging and Adult Services provides community-engaged services and ensures adults with disabilities and their families have the resources they need to live healthy lives.” 

SHIP counselors will provide free, confidential, individual counseling to help beneficiaries find the most comprehensive and cost-effective Medicare health plan and Part D coverage. They can also check if they are eligible for Medicare Savings Programs. Those with Medicare who are having difficulty paying for medical care may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs. These programs can help save money on premiums, prescription drugs, and other health care costs. 

Medicare coverage choices made during open enrollment will take effect on January 1, 2026. 

SHIP is administered through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Division of Aging and Adult Services, in collaboration with local Area Agencies on Aging and the Mississippi Access to Care Network. 

For more information about SHIP services and the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, call 1-844-822-4622 or 601-709-0624. Help is available M-F 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. or visit Finding Services for Older Adults – Mississippi Department of Human Services (ms.gov)  

The Role of Mississippi’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program 

When we think about long-term care facilities—such as nursing homes, assisted living centers, and personal care homes—we often picture safe, supportive environments that treat our aging loved ones with dignity and compassion.

That vision does not come to reality without accountability and engagement by caring community advocates. So, who is responsible for ensuring that our most vulnerable populations are truly heard, seen, and cared for?  In Mississippi, that responsibility falls to a dedicated group of advocates known as Long-Term Care Ombudsmen. 

Under the federal Older Americans Act (OAA), every state is required to have an Ombudsman program that addresses complaints and advocates for improvements in the long-term care system.  There are 53 Ombudsman programs nationwide—one for each state, plus Washington, D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico. 

In Mississippi, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) is staffed by a team of 19 committed professionals who work to protect the rights and well-being of residents in long-term care settings. Our mission is simple but powerful: to listen, investigate, and resolve complaints on behalf of residents across the state—whether those concerns involve care quality, dignity, safety, or even something as basic as the right to choose their daily routine. 

What makes the Ombudsman program unique is that we work solely for the residents, not their families, not the facilities, and not the state. Our role is to empower individuals who may feel voiceless or overlooked, ensuring they have someone in their corner who will advocate fiercely and confidentially for their rights. 

Each month, Ombudsmen visit the 406 licensed facilities across the state, building rapport and trust with residents so they feel comfortable sharing their concerns. When a resident voices an issue and gives permission, the Ombudsman works diligently to resolve it. In 2024, the Mississippi LTCOP received 1,608 complaints from residents in long-term care facilities. Of those, 1,385 were resolved to the satisfaction of the residents by their local Ombudsman. The most common concerns raised in 2024 included: 

• The standard of care provided by facilities 

• Residents’ right to make choices in their daily lives 

• The overall environment and quality of life in the facility 

Other issues included facility-initiated discharges or evictions, delayed responses to requests for assistance, and even reports of physical abuse. 

Beyond resolving complaints, Ombudsmen also educate residents and families about their rights, monitor facility conditions, and collaborate with staff to improve care practices often through in-service training. In many cases, the presence of an Ombudsman helps prevent problems before they begin. 

Despite the critical nature of this work, many Mississippians still don’t know the program exists. That’s why raising awareness is so important. If you have a loved one in a long-term care setting—or if you’re simply a concerned citizen—you should know that the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is here to help. 

If you have questions or concerns, you can reach your local Ombudsman by calling our statewide hotline at 1-888-844-0041. This number will guide you to a directory to find the Ombudsman serving your area. You can also email us at Ombudsman@mdhs.ms.gov, and someone will respond to your inquiry. 

You can support our mission by: 

• Learning more about residents’ rights in long-term care 

• Starting a family council at your loved one’s facility 

• Sharing this information with others in your community 

At its heart, the Mississippi Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is about dignity, respect, and justice for some of our most vulnerable neighbors. Every resident deserves to be heard—and thanks to this program, they are. 

Governor Tate Reeves has designated May as “Older Americans Month” in Mississippi. This recognition of the invaluable contributions of older adults highlights the importance of supporting their well-being within our communities.

Older Americans are pillars of strength, wisdom, and experience, upholding cherished values and traditions. They play vital roles as devoted family members, trusted friends, mentors, diligent volunteers, and esteemed civic leaders.

The Mississippi Department of Human Services Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) annually commemorates Older Americans Month (OAM). The 2025 theme, Flip the Script on Aging, focuses on transforming how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging. It encourages individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions.

This year, join us in honoring older adults’ contributions, exploring the many opportunities for staying active and engaged as we age, and highlighting the opportunities for purpose, exploration, and connection that come with aging.

“It’s not just about having someone to chat with,” said Aging and Adult Service Division Director Kenyada Washington. “It’s about the transformative potential of connection in enhancing mental, physical, and emotional well-being.” By recognizing and nurturing connectedness’s role, we can mitigate issues like loneliness, ultimately promoting healthy aging for more Americans.

Governor Tate Reeves expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Our esteemed older Mississippians exemplify the values that have strengthened our communities. We sincerely appreciate their immeasurable contributions as parents, grandparents, and citizens, enriching our great state.”

MDHS is delighted to collaborate with various partners in the aging community to celebrate OAM this year. Throughout the month, a wide range of resources will be available, covering topics such as effective Medicare navigation, access to congregate and home-delivered meals, respite care provision, long-term care ombudsperson services, and simplified application projects for SNAP benefits.

What you can do to connect:

1. Planning: Seek assistance from MDHS’s SHIP program to effectively plan and navigate the complexities of Medicare. Explore the Respite Care program designed to support caregivers of elderly family members.
2. Engagement: Familiarize yourself with the State of Mississippi’s Long Term Care Ombudsman to advocate for and protect vulnerable senior adults.
3. Access: Utilize the simplified application process for SNAP assistance through the elderly application process.
4. Connection: Engage with congregate feeding sites across the state and participate in the senior companions’ home visitation program. Maintain social activities and relationships to combat social isolation and foster a sense of belonging within your community.

Flipping the Script on Aging focuses on transforming how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging. It encourages individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions.

MDHS invites you to Flip the Script by visiting our website at the Division of Aging & Adult Services – Mississippi Department of Human Services (ms.gov). Explore various services, including congregate meal sites, home-delivered meals, transportation programs, respite care, and more. Eligibility for these services extends to all elderly Mississippians and Veterans.

For additional information, please visit the official MDHS website at www.mdhs.ms.gov, follow MDHS on Twitter and Facebook, and join the conversation using the hashtag #OlderAmericansMonth.

Mississippi Department of Human Services Raises Awareness and Spotlights Elder Abuse

Jackson, MS— The Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS), Division of Aging and Adult Services, is recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on June 15, 2025, and reinforcing the state’s commitment to protecting vulnerable older adults.

Elder abuse is an intentional or negligent act by any person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to an older adult.

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial exploitation, as well as neglect. It is estimated that 1 in 10 older adults experience some form of abuse each year, though only 1 in 14 cases of elder abuse ever come to authorities’ attention. Risk factors include social isolation, cognitive impairment, and dependence on a caregiver.

“Older Americans are vital, contributing members of our communities, and their abuse or neglect diminishes all of us. It is critical that we remain vigilant in protecting their rights and well-being,” said Kenyada Blake Washington, Director of the Division of Aging and Adult Services. “World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an opportunity to educate our community on the signs of abuse and connect older Mississippians with the resources and support they need.”

The Mississippi Department of Human Services encourages all Mississippians to learn the signs of elder abuse and take action to protect older adults in their communities. Some key signs to watch for include:

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or other physical injuries
• Sudden changes in financial situation or unpaid bills
• Withdrawal from normal activities or social isolation
• Bedsores, poor hygiene, or unmet medical needs
• Unusual changes in behavior or emotional state

If you suspect an older adult is being abused, neglected, or exploited, contact the Mississippi Adult Protective Services hotline at 1-800-222-8000 to anonymously report your concerns or online (www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/adult-protective-services). Reports received are electronically transmitted to an Adult Protective Services regional supervisor for the county where the alleged victim resides. Individuals should always call the nearest law enforcement agency or 911 if the situation is a life-threatening emergency.

Together, we can work to ensure that all older Mississippians can live with dignity and respect.

For more information on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and resources for older adults, visit the Division of Aging and Adult Services website at mdhs.ms.gov/aging/.

Jackson, MS- As the holiday season approaches, MDHS is dedicated to ensuring that eligible seniors have easier access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Through the Elderly Simplified Assistance Program, MDHS aims to simplify the application process and help older residents maintain their eligibility for important food assistance.

Protecting Your SNAP Benefits:
As the holidays can bring increased activity and potential risks, it’s crucial for seniors to safeguard their SNAP benefits. Here are some practical steps to prevent fraud:

• Change your PIN after every transaction and select numbers that are not easily guessed.
• Keep your PIN secure; cover the keypad while entering it.
• Monitor your EBT account frequently for unauthorized transactions.
• Check card reading machines for any suspicious overlays or attachments.

Important Reminder:
SNAP benefits will expire after 9 months of inactivity on the card. To prevent your benefits from expiring, it is essential to use your EBT card at least once every 274 days.

Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the ESAP, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• All household members are aged 60 or over.
• No household members receive earned income.
• The household is not mandated to receive SNAP benefits through the Mississippi Combined Application Project (MSCAP).

Eligible households are required to apply through ESAP and cannot participate in the regular SNAP program.

How to Apply:
Seniors can use the SNAP Simplified Application for the Elderly (ESAP) form to apply for benefits. This form is available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. 

Applications are accepted if:

• Everyone in the household is aged 60 or older, or all members aged 60 or older purchase and prepare food separately; and
• No household member receives earnings from work.

As we celebrate the season, MDHS remains committed to helping elderly citizens access the resources they need for a healthy holiday. For more information about support for seniors, please visit Caring for an Older Adult – Mississippi Department of Human Services

November is National Caregiver Month, which is dedicated to recognizing and supporting caregivers as they provide essential care for others. This year’s theme is “Caregiving Around the Clock.” 

Through the Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS), the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) offers two primary programs to assist caregivers: the Mississippi Family Caregiver Support Program and the Mississippi Dementia Care Program. 

DAAS is enhancing its programs to assist those who care for our most vulnerable citizens and better support our aging population.  

“As our communities grow older, it’s imperative that we invest in the well-being of caregivers who are the backbone of our support systems,” said Kenyada Blake, Director of the MDHS Division of Aging and Adult Services. “The Mississippi Dementia Care Program is dedicated to providing essential respite and support services, ensuring caregivers have the necessary tools to care for their loved ones while also taking care of themselves.” 

Under the Older Americans Act, MDHS administers the National Family Caregiver Support Program, which provides temporary relief for regular caregivers—whether they are spouses, children, or relatives—of individuals who are ill, functionally impaired, or living with dementia and require constant in-home care. 

The Mississippi Family Caregiver Support Program collaborates with 10 Area Agencies on Aging and local community service providers to deliver five essential services for family caregivers, including: 

• Information about available services.
• Assistance in accessing services.
• Individual counseling, organization of support groups, and caregiver training to help caregivers make informed decisions and solve problems related to their caregiving roles.
• Respite care temporarily relieves caregivers of their responsibilities.
• Supplemental services, on a limited basis, to complement the care provided by caregivers. 

The Mississippi Dementia Care Program provides respite care and support services to informal caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias (ADRD) or cognitive impairment. Caregivers will have access to approximately 27 hours of respite care per month for twelve consecutive months. Support will also be offered through Building Better Caregiver workshops. 

It is crucial for caregivers to take regular breaks to recharge and manage stress levels. Here are some recommendations: 

• Be hopeful in your outlook.
• Maintain or increase levels of physical activity.
• Prioritize mental health.
• Stay connected with friends and family whenever possible. 

To connect to the Mississippi Dementia Care Program, contact the Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Center at 844-822-4622 or email msdementia.care@mdhs.ms.gov. 

For additional information on Family Caregiver Support Program and other programs available for adults and seniors, visit MDHS Aging & Adult Services. 

Division of Aging and Adult Services Raises Awareness and Spotlights Resources for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2025

Mississippi Department of Human Services Shines a Light on Elder Abuse Prevention

Jackson, MS— The Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS), Division of Aging and Adult Services, is recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, 2025, and reinforcing the state’s commitment to protecting vulnerable older adults. 

“As the population of older adults continues to grow, it is vital that we remain vigilant in protecting their rights and well-being,” said Kenyada Blake Washington, Director of the Division of Aging and Adult Services. “World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an opportunity to educate our community on the signs of abuse and connect older Mississippians with the resources and support they need.” 

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial exploitation, as well as neglect. It is estimated that 1 in 10 older adults experience some form of abuse each year, though many cases go unreported. Risk factors include social isolation, cognitive impairment, and dependence on a caregiver. 

 To mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Division of Aging and Adult Services encourages all Mississippians to learn the signs of elder abuse and take action to protect older adults in their communities. Some key signs to watch for include: 

• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or other physical injuries 
• Sudden changes in financial situation or unpaid bills 
• Withdrawal from normal activities or social isolation 
• Bedsores, poor hygiene, or unmet medical needs 
• Unusual changes in behavior or emotional state 

If you suspect an older adult is being abused, neglected, or exploited, contact the Mississippi Adult Protective Services hotline at 1-800-222-8000 to anonymously report your concerns or online.  Individuals should always call the nearest law enforcement agency or 911 if the situation is a life-threatening emergency. 

Reports received are electronically transmitted to an Adult Protective Services regional supervisor for the county where the alleged victim resides. The APS supervisor reviews the report and makes the screening decision for further handling. If the report meets criteria for an APS investigation, the supervisor assigns the report to an APS worker. In most cases reports can be made anonymously and in all cases the reporter’s name is kept confidential. 

Together, we can work to ensure that all older Mississippians can live with dignity and respect. 

For more information on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and resources for older  adults, visit the Division of Aging and Adult Services website at Division of Aging & Adult Services – Mississippi Department of Human Services (ms.gov). 

Jackson, MS – Governor Tate Reeves has designated May as “Older Americans Month” in Mississippi, recognizing the invaluable contributions of older adults while highlighting the importance of supporting their well-being within our communities.

Older Americans are pillars of strength, wisdom, and experience, upholding cherished values and traditions. They play vital roles as devoted family members, trusted friends, mentors, diligent volunteers, and esteemed civic leaders.

The Mississippi Department of Human Services Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) annually commemorates Older Americans Month (OAM). This year’s theme, “Powered by Connection,” focuses on the profound impact of meaningful connections on older adults’ well-being and health.

“It’s not just about having someone to chat with,” said Aging and Adult Service Division Director Kenyada Washington. “It’s about the transformative potential of community engagement in enhancing mental, physical, and emotional well-being.” By recognizing and nurturing connectedness’s role, we can mitigate issues like loneliness, ultimately promoting healthy aging for more Americans.

Governor Tate Reeves expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Our esteemed older Mississippians exemplify the values that have strengthened our communities. We sincerely appreciate their immeasurable contributions as parents, grandparents, and citizens, enriching our great state.”

MDHS is delighted to collaborate with various partners in the aging community to celebrate OAM this year. Throughout the month, a wide range of resources will be available, covering topics such as effective Medicare navigation, access to congregate and home-delivered meals, respite care provision, long-term care ombudsperson services, and simplified application projects for SNAP benefits.

What you can do to connect:

1. Planning: Seek assistance from MDHS’s SHIP program to plan and navigate the complexities of Medicare effectively. Explore the Respite Care program designed to support caregivers of elderly family members.
2. Engagement: Familiarize yourself with the State of Mississippi’s Long Term Care Ombudsman to advocate for and protect vulnerable senior adults.
3. Access: Utilize the simplified application process for SNAP assistance through the elderly application process.
4. Connection: Engage with congregate feeding sites across the state and participate in the senior companions’ home visitation program. Maintain social activities and relationships to combat social isolation and foster a sense of belonging within your community.

Strong communities are built upon the foundations of connectedness. Ensuring the continued involvement and inclusion of older adults in their communities benefits everyone. MDHS invites you to strengthen our community by visiting our website at the Division of Aging & Adult Services – Mississippi Department of Human Services (ms.gov). Explore various services, including congregate meal sites, home-delivered meals, transportation programs, respite care, and more. Eligibility for these services extends to all elderly Mississippians and Veterans.

For additional information, please visit the official MDHS website at www.mdhs.ms.gov, follow MDHS on Twitter and Facebook, and join the conversation using the hashtag #OlderAmericansMonth.

What you need to know:

• Update your phone number by emailing your caseworker or logging on to AccessMS. Remember to use your name exactly as it appears on your EBT card.
• Most interviews will be conducted by phone.
• If you apply or are due for recertification before May 1, you will not be required to participate in an interview.
• If you apply or are due for recertification after May 1, you will be required to be interviewed by a caseworker.

Expiration of Waiver of Interview Requirements for SNAP Benefits in Mississippi

Jackson, MS – The Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) announces the expiration of the waiver of interview requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Under the current waiver, which has been in effect since June 2023, applicants for SNAP benefits have not been required to undergo interviews with SNAP case workers. However, this waiver is set to expire on April 30, 2024.

As part of the transition process, MDHS will begin notifying current SNAP households that are due for recertification and whose certification period extends through May 2024, soon after April 10. Caseworkers will send these notifications and schedule interview appointments with the respective households. The interviews are expected to be scheduled in the latter half of April or early May.

“Maintaining program integrity and serving the needs of Mississippians are paramount at MDHS,” said Executive Director Bob Anderson. “As we approach the expiration of the SNAP interview waiver, we recognize the importance of reinstating interviews to ensure accurate eligibility verification.”

It is important to note that interviews will not be required for new SNAP applicants until May 1, 2024. This means that any individuals or households seeking SNAP benefits before that date will not be subject to interview requirements.

The expiration of the waiver and the reinstatement of interview requirements are part of MDHS’s ongoing efforts to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the SNAP program in Mississippi. Conducting interviews allows caseworkers to gather important information, verify eligibility, and provide support and resources to SNAP recipients.

MDHS remains committed to serving the citizens of Mississippi and maintaining an efficient SNAP program. The waiver’s expiration does not affect the eligibility criteria or the benefits provided by SNAP. It simply reinstates the interview requirement for SNAP households.

For more information and updates regarding SNAP benefits, please visit the MDHS website at www.mdhs.ms.gov. Additionally, to apply, renew, or upload documents related to SNAP benefits, please visit the Mississippi Common Web Portal at www.access.ms.gov.