Arizona has long been known as one of the retirement friendly states, in the U.S. for its affordability, but that is changing. Brendon Blake, director of advocacy with AARP Arizona said the cost of living in the state has gone up faster than the cost of living adjustment Arizona seniors receive in their social security checks. .
One Nevada program is aiming to help seniors on fixed incomes pay their utility bills. United Way of Southern Nevada has announced the dates of the annual Project REACH Senior Expo events. Project REACH provides financial assistance to seniors who are 62 years or order and have past-due utility bills and are having a hard time making ends meet. .
Four Oregon organizations have received grants from AARP Oregon to help make their communities more age friendly. One of the chosen projects is the Sutherlin Library Foundation, in a small community north of Roseburg in central Oregon. The foundation will receive $4,000 to offer classes on digital technology for older people. .
Projects in six Nebraska communities, large and small, are among this year s AARP Community Challenge Grant winners. A total of $3.6 million was awarded to 310 organizations nationwide for projects to make their communities more "livable," especially for people age 50 and older. Todd Stubbendieck, AARP Nebraska state director, said the ongoing mission to improve the health and well-being of older Nebraskans includes improving the places they live and spend time in. .