What We're Reading: Opioid Commission Recommendations; ACA Sign-Ups; Expectations of Aging

Opioid Commission Provides Recommendations

The opioid commission, put in place by President Donald Trump to address the growing drug addiction and painkiller crisis, has released a report with recommendations. According to STAT, the commission, chaired by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, released a report with 56 recommendations that Congress, federal departments, and local governments will need to fund and implement. The list includes better education for providers, a media blitz, and an expanded drug court system.

Facilitating ACA Open Enrollment Sign-Ups

The acting secretary of HHS, Eric Hargan, has expressed a commitment to ensuring sign-ups for the Affordable Care Act’s open enrollment period go smoothly. Although the Trump administration is looking to repeal the health law, it still wants open enrollment to be “consumer friendly,” reported The Hill. Hargan mentioned the administration wants to continue working to provide relief for consumers by expanding choices and providing more affordable options.

Enhancing the Image of Aging

Expectations of aging can positively or negatively affect how well a person ages. A new initiative is hoping to change the image of aging and get rid of negative stereotypes that can be a self-fulfilling prophecy of negative experiences, according to Kaiser Health News. Older adults who believe negative stereotypes about aging walk slower, have more memory problems, and recover less fully from a fall or fracture. Emphasizing the positives of aging can benefit seniors—those with a primarily positive view live 7.5 years longer.