AHA Moments – August 11, 2026
Welcome to this week’s “AHA Moments,” a weekly news flash regarding key events, happenings, articles, and other relevant information for our stakeholders.
Coffee and Caregiving Conversations is Coming Up Soon!
Have you signed up yet? The NH Alliance for Healthy Aging (NHAHA) Caregiving Workgroup’s next Coffee and Caregiving Conversation is just around the corner on Friday, August 28. Held from 8:30–10:00 AM at the Foundation for Healthy Communities in Concord, this in-person meeting brings together organizations supporting caregivers across New Hampshire to strengthen collaboration, share resources and knowledge, and build our collective capacity to better support caregivers.
Higher Electricity Rates in Effect for Many New Hampshire Residents
New electricity supply rates took effect on August 1 for most New Hampshire residents, and as a result, many households may notice higher electric bills in the coming weeks. If you’re concerned about affording your energy costs, assistance may be available through Community Action Agencies. Some programs are currently accepting applications, including options specifically for older adults.
Research Highlights What it Takes to Support Aging in Place
The majority of older adults want to remain in their homes or communities as they age, but the policies and programs designed to support aging in place are often inconsistent, disconnected, and underfunded. The Housing an Aging Society Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University has identified programs that are working well and where there are gaps.
Upcoming Partner Events
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NAMIWalks New Hampshire to Raise Awareness for Mental Health
NAMI New Hampshire will host NAMIWalks New Hampshire on Sunday, October 4, in Concord to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention while supporting free mental health education, advocacy, and peer support programs across the state. The event will bring together individuals, families, and organizations to help reduce stigma, promote understanding, and demonstrate that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.
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Riverwoods Gala
RiverWoods will host its annual gala on Saturday, October 3 in Durham. This year’s event, themed Illuminate Tomorrow: A Celebration of Hope, will benefit the Seacoast Dementia Hub, with proceeds supporting its free dementia education, resources, and caregiver support programs for individuals and families throughout the Seacoast.
A Simple Way to Spot a Scam: Pay Attention to How You’re Asked to Pay
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is reminding consumers that the payment method a scammer demands is often the biggest red flag. If someone insists you can only pay by bank transfer, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, a payment app, or gift card, it’s likely a scam. The FTC recommends paying by credit card whenever possible, researching unfamiliar companies or callers, and acting quickly if you think you’ve sent money to a scammer.
Read the FTC’s full consumer alert and learn how to report a possible scam in NH.
Understanding Guardianship in Long-Term Care
When a long-term care facility recommends guardianship for a resident, families may be unsure what that means or whether it’s the right step. A recent episode of the Pursuing Quality Long-Term Care podcast features elder law attorney Alison Hirschel discussing when guardianship may be appropriate, alternatives that preserve a person’s independence, and how families can respond if they feel pressured to pursue guardianship.
Do you have an “AHA Moment” you would like to share, or would like us to add a friend to the “Moments” Mailing List? Please email Kathryn Selinga at Kathryn.Selinga@unh.edu