What's Being Discussed

The Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs (PABEA) is holding its monthly meeting on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. The meeting will take place in person at 250 South Hotel Street, Conference Room 410, Honolulu, and is also available via Zoom. Key topics include:

• Older Americans Act reauthorization — updates on the renewal of this federal law that funds senior services
• Hanai Memory Network (Act 245) — a new state law directing the creation of a network of dementia care specialists and support services
• KupunAloha Project (Act 246) — a one-year pilot program for kupuna (elders) being established by the Department of Health
• Long-Term Care Financing (Act 249) — updates on new legislation addressing how long-term care is funded in Hawaii
• Medicare open enrollment preparation — volunteer counselors recently recertified through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
• $750,000 in rural health funds — the state is working with local aging agencies on how to use these dollars
• State Plan on Aging 2027–2031 — community needs assessment is underway
• Reports from county aging agencies on Oahu, Hawaii Island, Maui, and Kauai

Decisions Expected

• A vote to approve the minutes from the July 10, 2026 meeting is anticipated
• Any new business items may be introduced and acted upon

Who Should Pay Attention

• Older adults and their families in Hawaii, especially those using or seeking elder care services
• People affected by dementia or memory care needs
• Residents in rural communities who may benefit from targeted aging resources
• Anyone interested in Medicare, long-term care financing, or state aging policy

Public testimony is welcome. Submit written testimony to eoa@doh.hawaii.gov at least 24 hours before the meeting.