Welcome to this week’s “AHA Moments,” a weekly news flash regarding key events, happenings, articles, and other relevant information for our stakeholders.
Join Us for the Final Quarterly Meeting of the Year on December 11
December is here, which means the last NH Alliance for Healthy Aging (NHAHA) Quarterly Meeting is just around the corner! Get ready for a morning of networking, statewide updates, and collaborative conversation.
Set for Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 9:00–11:30 AM in Concord, NH, there will also be optional networking both at 8:45 AM and from 11:30 AM–12:00 PM. We welcome attendees to bring materials to put out on the sharing table as well.
Agenda Highlights:
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Learn about NH’s Healthcare Decisions Coalition from Janice McDermott.
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Hear about the new Seacoast Dementia Hub, a promising program supporting dementia caregivers.
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Explore NHAHA’s Inclusion Activities with insights from Talmira Hill.
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Get the latest Advocacy & Policy Updates from Judith Jones and AHA Updates from Jennifer Rabalais.
Winter Weather is Here: Stay Safe on NH Roads
As the cold settles in and slick and snowy roads have arrived, remember to slow down while driving, leave extra space between vehicles, and make sure your car is winter-ready. That means having things like good tires, a strong battery, and key supplies like blankets, an ice scraper, and a shovel. If you become stuck or stranded, stay with your vehicle, keep it visible, and check that the exhaust pipe is clear to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
State Warns SNAP Recipients of Phishing Scam Targeting Personal Information
State officials are warning SNAP recipients about a new phishing scam in which callers impersonate Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) staff and falsely threaten to restrict benefits unless victims share personal information. Authorities emphasize that DHHS never withholds SNAP benefits and urge recipients to ignore suspicious calls, monitor EBT accounts, and report any fraudulent activity.
2025–2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan Open for Public Comment
The public comment period for the draft of the Southern NH Planning Commission’s (SNHPC) 2025-2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan opened on November 14, 2025, and residents still have time to weigh in. The long-range plan outlines regional transportation goals, policies, and proposed projects through 2050, aligning local priorities with statewide and federal planning requirements. Community input will help guide future transportation investments across the region.
You may submit feedback by emailing connections2050@snhpc.org through December 15. Additionally, the SNHPC MPO Policy Committee will hold a public hearing for the draft plan on December 16, 2025, at 11:30 AM at 438 Dubuque Street in Manchester. You may also participate in the public hearing online or by calling 646-931-3860 with Meeting ID: 840 1267 4839.
Addressing Gaps in Cardiovascular Care for Older Adults
Older adults remain underrepresented in cardiovascular research, face unique barriers to managing hypertension, and are at heightened risk of polypharmacy and overtreatment, according to experts at the American Heart Association 2025 Scientific Sessions. Presentations highlighted strategies to address these challenges, including more inclusive clinical trials, patient-centered interventions, and careful deprescribing.
ACL Caregiving Event Recording
The Administration for Community Living (ACL) hosted The Power of Caregivers for a Healthy America: Building a Better Future Together on Tuesday, November 18 which recognized the nation’s 63 million+ family caregivers and 5 million+ direct care workers, whose dedication helps people live independently in their homes and strengthens communities across the country. The event celebrated their invaluable contributions and highlighted the ongoing need for investment in caregiver supports, training, and stress reduction.
Navigating Grief During the Holidays
The holidays can be especially challenging for those grieving, but recognizing and accepting conflicting feelings allows grievers to navigate the season with compassion for themselves. A recent article from the National Council on Aging (NCOA) explores how strategies like practicing self-care, honoring loved ones through rituals, being flexible with traditions, and planning ahead can help manage emotional ups and downs.
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