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From the Chair:
Taking stock of senior issues
As we survey the first half of 2002 a certain
similarity appears between actions on our senior agenda and the stock market. We
contemplate the challenges ahead for both. We note the crisis of confidence in
each case. Events we have read and heard about have challenged great numbers of
Minnesota citizens. Old terms such as trust company or security do not have the
solid ring they previously had. Pundits say you can’t legislate integrity.
As my favorite chef once said, cooking the
books doesn’t make for tasty memories. With these thoughts behind us, let’s
take a closer look at our portfolios.
Due to the state budget problems some senior
programs were negatively affected. No Enrons were in our holdings, but our first
half totals were down. We did have several winners in our 2002 favorite program
selections. The Senior LinkAge Line® is evolving and will focus more on
information and assistance. The MBA Web site provides helpful information on a
wide variety of programs and services. It also is a resource for several MBA
publications.
The State Health Insurance Assistance Program
(SHIP) continues to garner accolades for its performance by assisting consumers
to manage their bottom lines by helping them figure out the constantly changing
landscape of prescription drug savings options and Medicare. Long-term care
reform is well under way.
The development of the "Resource
House" Database (see front page story) will prove to be a valuable
investment. We continue to hold major promising affordable senior drug
positions. These investments have not yet moved to bring our total package to
needed performance levels.
In the second half of 2002, we think we can all
generate confidence in our efforts that will produce a positive environment in
which we can legislate integrity and claim a lifetime achievement award for all
seniors. A strong second half will win the game – it’s a matter of faith.
–Kenneth Moritz, chair, Minnesota Board on
Aging
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