AHA Moments – August 25, 2026

 

Welcome to this week’s “AHA Moments,” a weekly news flash regarding key events, happenings, articles, and other relevant information for our stakeholders.

Last Call for Coffee and Caregiving Conversations

The next Coffee and Caregiving Conversations, hosted by the NH Alliance for Healthy Aging (NHAHA) Caregiving Workgroup, will take place this Friday, August 28! Held from 8:30–10:00 AM at the Foundation for Healthy Communities in Concord, this in-person meeting will bring together organizations supporting caregivers across New Hampshire to strengthen collaboration, share resources and knowledge, and build our collective capacity to better support caregivers.

One Month Until the NHAHA September Quarterly Meeting

We’re just one month away from the NHAHA September Quarterly Meeting! Join us on Thursday, September 24, at Northeast Delta Dental in Concord, NH from 9:00–11:30 AM. There will be optional networking beginning at 8:45 AM and at lunch from 11:30 AM until noon. We’re planning another great morning of learning, collaboration, and connection. Stay tuned for the full agenda.

NH State Primary Election is September 8

The NH State Primary is Tuesday, September 8. Open Democracy’s Age Strong Voting Program helps older adults across NH navigate changes to voting rules and access the ballot with confidence. The program provides voter education, community support, and assistance with absentee voting, including a statewide volunteer notary network for voters who need help with the new absentee ballot requirements.

NH Health Services Face Funding Cuts 

A new report from NH Fiscal Policy Institute finds that the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reduced its funding by $39.1 million in State Fiscal Year 2026, including cuts affecting behavioral health, food assistance, family supports, and public health programs. While many existing services were not immediately reduced, the report notes that nearly three-quarters of the savings came from one-time accounting adjustments that will not be available again, meaning DHHS faces another $25.5 million in required reductions this fiscal year with potentially greater impacts on services.

Upcoming Partner Events

  • Falls Prevention Awareness Summit
The NH Fall Risk Reduction Taskforce will bring professionals together on September 23 from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM in Concord for a day of learning and networking focused on reducing falls among older adults. The summit will highlight state and local initiatives, resources, and best practices for professionals in aging services, healthcare, fitness, EMS, senior centers, and more.
  • Advocacy 101: Learning How to Make Your Voice Heard
New Futures and the Carroll County Coalition for Public Health are hosting a free, non-partisan Advocacy 101 training on Friday, September 11, at the Moultonborough Function Hall. The 90-minute session will cover practical ways to contact and communicate with decision-makers about community issues such as housing, healthcare, jobs, and the environment. Doors open at 7:30 AM for a complimentary breakfast, with the training running from 8–9:30 AM.

2026 Aging Summit Report  

ADvancing States has released its 2026 Aging Summit Report, highlighting recommendations for preparing the nation to meet the opportunities and challenges of a rapidly aging population. The report focuses on healthy aging, strengthening the direct care workforce and supporting caregivers, building more integrated and person-centered systems, and leveraging cross-sector partnerships, data, and technology.
 
 

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

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