Starting Oct. 1, cryptocurrency kiosk/ATMs that accept deposits will no longer be allowed in Hawai‘i as a new consumer protection law takes effect.
Hawai‘i is now the 35th state to enact a law to protect consumers from losing money in scams involving cryptocurrency kiosk/ATMs and is the first state to ban kiosks that accept deposits. By November, there may be more than 35 states with new laws. Four other states have completely banned these machines. Other states have imposed transaction limits, mandated refunds for fraud, increased warning signs, required printed receipts and passed other consumer safeguards.
“The use of cryptocurrency kiosks in scams was increasing exponentially in Hawai‘i and across the nation,” says Keali‘i Lopez, AARP Hawai‘i state director. “Last year, the FBI said Hawai’i consumers reported losing $3.85 million through fraud involving cryptocurrency kioks. That’s nearly four times the amount reported lost in 2024. That’s why AARP fought hard to pass Act 224. We’re grateful to our advocacy volunteers and others who shared fraud stories, testified, called and sent letters and emails to help pass the law. We’re also thankful to lawmakers who acted decisively to protect consumers.”
The FBI said kūpuna were especially vulnerable to cryptocurrency kiosk/ATM fraud and accounted for the majority of the losses. The machines look like bank ATMs and could be found in grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, gas stations and other locations.
“Fraudsters use cryptocurrency kiosks like a getaway car in a bank robbery,” Keali‘i continues. “They convince consumers through romance scams, by posing as an IRS agent or other official, or through a technology scam, to take money out of their banks and deposit it in the cryptocurrency kiosk. And once the money is put into a scammer’s cryptocurrency wallet, it is gone.”
Starting Oct. 1, cryptocurrency kiosk/ATMs that accept deposits will no longer be allowed in Hawai‘i as a new consumer protection law takes effect. Hawai‘i is now the 35th state to enact a law to protect consumers from losing money in scams involving cryptocurrency kiosk/ATMs and is the first state to ban kiosks that accept deposits.…
For families across Hawai‘i facing the uncertainty of memory concerns, help is on the way — and it carries a name rooted in our local values. The HĀNAI Memory Network, an acronym for Hawai‘i’s Assistance for the Navigation of Alzheimer’s Intervention, was signed into law in 2026 as Act 245, capping off this past session’s advocacy efforts by the Alzheimer’s Association and its community partners.
Gov. Josh Green (center, front row) signed House Bill 1853 (Act 245) into law on July 14, 2026, establishing the HA¯NAI Memory Network Program. In attendance were (L–R, front row) Calvin Hara, Dr. Gina Fujikami, Jerry Perone, Kamal Masaki, LJ Duenas, (second row) Hayden Cobb, Chris Lutz, Barbara Black (back row) Peter Black and Coby Chock.
Hānai speaks to a cultural tradition of caring for others as ‘ohana, extending support beyond blood ties — and that spirit shapes the program itself. Rather than leaving families to piece together care on their own, HĀNAI weaves clinical and nonclinical services into one coordinated system. Call it a “no wrong door” approach: Wherever someone enters, they’re met with guidance toward diagnosis, treatment and ongoing support that honors both dignity and culture.
Two core pillars will carry the work forward:
Dementia Care Specialists will offer cognitive screening, assessment and referrals directly in their communities.
Memory Clinics, established in partnership with a health system in each county, will provide clinical diagnosis, care planning and access to emerging treatments — including therapies that clear amyloid plaque and slow disease progression.
With the law now in place, the Executive Office on Aging is collecting public input and preparing to release a Request for Proposal this fall. If momentum holds, families should see HĀNAI up and running by mid-to-late 2027, giving Hawai‘i families a trusted place to turn for care.
If you have any questions about the HĀNAI Memory Network, please contact the Alzheimer’s Association – Hawai‘i.
For families across Hawai‘i facing the uncertainty of memory concerns, help is on the way — and it carries a name rooted in our local values. The HĀNAI Memory Network, an acronym for Hawai‘i’s Assistance for the Navigation of Alzheimer’s Intervention, was signed into law in 2026 as Act 245, capping off this past session’s…
Every May, National Older Americans Month (established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy) celebrates the profound volunteer contributions of our country’s senior citizens. Here in Hawai‘i, we deeply value our kūpuna, whose wisdom and aloha spirit shape our communities. During Older Americans Month, each Hawai‘i county honors its special senior citizens with Outstanding Older American Awards, crowning a male and female champion who go on to represent their island at the state level. This year’s national theme, Champion Your Health, emphasized wellness, prevention and the active role older adults play in society.
Hawai‘i’s four county Area Agencies on Aging received nominations from the public for Outstanding Older Americans, recognizing two kūpuna from each county for their invaluable lifelong volunteer contributions and community service. Communities across our state honored their kūpuna throughout the month: Maui and Hawai‘i County hosted their celebrations on May 9, Honolulu County held its event on May 15 and Kaua‘i County concluded the month’s festivities with a gathering on May 29. Following these county celebrations, the state gathered for the Governor’s Hawai‘i Statewide Older Americans Month Recognition Ceremony on June 12 at 15 Craigside in Honolulu.
The Roots of Our Community
Our kūpuna are the roots that ground our island communities. Every year, Hawai‘i’s Outstanding Older Americans Month events highlight their strength. Through a lifetime of selfless kōkua (help) and deep aloha, awardees remind us that the most beautiful legacy we can leave is a community uplifted.
The chicken-skin stories of our honorees reveal our immense good fortune and privilege to be inspired by these service-above-self leaders. By honoring these individuals who volunteer their time sharing their talents, we become aware of the value of giving. May we always draw from their strength and carry their legacy forward.
Mahalo palena ‘ole (boundless gratitude) to our venerable ku¯puna — living treasures whose wisdom and grace continue to guide Hawai‘i toward a brighter tomorrow
Every May, National Older Americans Month (established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy) celebrates the profound volunteer contributions of our country’s senior citizens. Here in Hawai‘i, we deeply value our kūpuna, whose wisdom and aloha spirit shape our communities. During Older Americans Month, each Hawai‘i county honors its special senior citizens with Outstanding Older…
❑ Track your ballot. Sign up for Hawai‘i’s free ballot tracking system at elections.hawaii.gov. You’ll receive alerts when your ballot is mailed to you and when your voted ballot has been accepted for counting. You can expect to receive your ballot packet by July 21.
❑ Learn about the candidates. View the digital voter guide at elections.hawaii.gov to read statements from the candidates.
❑ Return your ballot by 7pm on Aug. 8. Return your ballot by mail or drop it off at a ballot drop box. Visit elections.hawaii.gov for location details. Don’t forget to sign the return envelope for your ballot to be counted.
❑ Need assistance? Accessible options are available including accessible voting equipment at voter service centers and requesting an electronic ballot if you have a print disability. Visit elections. hawaii.gov to learn more.
Ahead of the 2026 primary election on Saturday, Aug. 8, we have a few key reminders for Hawai‘i voters. ❑ Your primary election ballot will arrive by mail. Hawai‘i registered voters automatically receive a mail ballot for every election. ❑ Confirm your voter registration. Visit elections.hawaii.gov or call 808-453-8683 to confirm that your voter registration…
For many kūpuna across Hawai‘i, staying active is more than a lifestyle choice, it’s a lifeline. As heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the islands, community events that encourage movement, connection and awareness play an essential role in supporting longer, healthier lives.
This year’s Hawai‘i Heart Walk at Kapi‘olani Regional Park in Honolulu on Aug. 15 invites older adults, families and caregivers to come together in a celebration of wellness. The event isn’t a race. There’s no pressure to finish fast or go far. Participants can choose between a one-mile route or a four-mile route. Both options offer a chance to enjoy time outdoors and take meaningful steps toward better heart health.
Regular walking lowers blood pressure, improves circulation, strengthens muscles and boosts mood. For kūpuna, even short daily walks can support balance, mobility and independence.
Registration for The Heart Walk is free and participants will also have access to free health information. Whether you walk a mile or simply enjoy the morning with others, your presence helps strengthen a healthier Hawai‘i. For more information, use the contacts below.
For many kūpuna across Hawai‘i, staying active is more than a lifestyle choice, it’s a lifeline. As heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the islands, community events that encourage movement, connection and awareness play an essential role in supporting longer, healthier lives. This year’s Hawai‘i Heart Walk at Kapi‘olani Regional…
The mission of Hawaii Pacific Gerontological Society (HPGS) is to enhance the general well-being of older individuals in Hawai‘i. HPGS awards scholarships to students enrolled in paraprofessional training, undergraduate and graduate programs in Hawai‘i, who have a serious interest in professional work related to aging and long-term care.
This is the 10th year of our Tony Lenzer Scholarship Fundraising event. Each year, HPGS honors a deserving individual who has contributed to Hawai‘i’s senior community and advocates for our kūpuna. This year’s honoree is Suzanne Chun Oakland, program director of Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center. She also served in the Hawai‘i State Legislature for 26 years.
The first annual event honored HPGS’s first president, Dr. Tony Lenzer (2017). He was followed by Rose Nakamura of Project Dana (2018), retired AARP State Director Barbara Kim-Stanton (2019), Founding HPGS Board member Cullen Hayashida (2020), Gerontologist Emmet White of Arcadia Family of Homes (2021), State Ombudsman John McDermott (2022), AARP President Gary Simon (2023), Dorothy Colby of Hale Kū‘ike (2024) and Jeannette Koijane of Kokua Mau (2025).
The event will be held on September 11, 2026. For more information and to register, visit hpgs.org
HAWAII PACIFIC GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIETY (nonprofit) PO Box 3714, Honolulu, HI 96812 HPGS.808@gmail.com | hpgs.org
The mission of Hawaii Pacific Gerontological Society (HPGS) is to enhance the general well-being of older individuals in Hawai‘i. HPGS awards scholarships to students enrolled in paraprofessional training, undergraduate and graduate programs in Hawai‘i, who have a serious interest in professional work related to aging and long-term care. This is the 10th year of our…
AARP Hawai’i recognized Bill Doi, Kupuna Aikido co-founder and former president, with its 2025 Andrus Award for Community Service, our most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service.
Bill and his fellow aikido instructor friends simplified and refined principles of the Japanese martial art of aikido, adapting its techniques into a class format to teach kūpuna how to avoid falls and minimize injury if they do fall. Therefore, Bill was selected for his remarkable service which has greatly benefited the community, reflected AARP’s vision and mission and inspired other volunteers.
If you know of someone like Bill who should be recognized for their community service, AARP Hawai‘i is accepting applications for the 2026 award. Eligibility requirements and a nomination form for AARP Hawai‘i Andrus Award for Community Service nominees can be found at aarp.org/volunteer/andrus-award-nominations. The award also comes with a $1,000 donation to the charity of the recipient’s choice.
For more information contact AARP Hawai‘i Outreach Director Jackie Boland at 808-545-6003 or email her at jboland@aarp.org.
To sign up for classes in safe falling, go to the Kupuna Aikido website at kupunaaikido.org.
AARP Hawai’i recognized Bill Doi, Kupuna Aikido co-founder and former president,with its 2025 Andrus Award for Community Service, our most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service. Bill and his fellow aikido instructor friends simplified and refined principles of the Japanese martial art of aikido, adapting its techniques into a class format to…
Kūpuna Power, a platform that seeks to educate and empower Hawai‘i’s elderly, is both a movement and a mindset—a reminder that Hawai‘i’s elders carry not only our history, but our momentum. Born out of an immediate response to a church family member being scammed, I launched the initiative after witnessing firsthand how vulnerable Kūpuna can be when clear, reliable information is hard to find—or when a kupuna is too embarrassed to reveal such a situation. The experience exposed an urgent need for information to accessible resources at the federal, state, county and private levels—and the spark that ignited Kūpuna Power.
Kūpuna Power is about helping them tap into resources that enable them to live their golden years the way they want to, as independently as possible and without worries. Kūpuna Power helps restore dignity, visibility and agency to the people who built the foundations we stand on today.
At its core, the initiative insists that kūpuna are cultural anchors and political stabilizers whose lived experiences—from plantation life to the Hawaiian Renaissance—give them a clarity that Hawai‘i still depends on. When elders speak, they bring generations of insight.
Kūpuna Power channels that wisdom into present-day action by encouraging kūpuna to stay informed, vote, testify, organize and guide the lāhui (people) with the same steady hands that raised families and communities.
The movement also strengthens intergenerational connection, creating joyful, dignified spaces where young people learn directly from elders through stories, mele and lived truth. That exchange fuels coherence, unity and disciplined civic participation.
KŪPUNA POWER 808-768-7700 | info@wearekupuna.com wearekupuna.com
Kūpuna Power, a platform that seeks to educate and empower Hawai‘i’s elderly, is both a movement and a mindset—a reminder that Hawai‘i’s elders carry not only our history, but our momentum. Born out of an immediate response to a church family member being scammed, I launched the initiative after witnessing firsthand how vulnerable Kūpuna can…
The findings of a recent Columbia University study—that Hawai‘i is a high-risk state for a family caregiver shortage—should come as no surprise to the estimated 154,000 family caregivers who reside here.
AARP estimates that Hawai‘i’s family caregivers put in 144 million hours of unpaid care a year to loved ones in Hawai‘i. If they were paid, the value of what they do for others would be $2.6 billion.
Without family caregivers, our long-term care system in Hawai‘i would collapse; we wouldn’t be able to take care of our kūpuna.
The study looked at demographics. Hawai‘i’s older population is increasing faster than other states. As more of our population ages, there will be fewer younger residents who can take care of kūpuna who need care.
The study also looked at the need for workers who can provide paid services in-home and the availability of nursing home or adult residential care home services.
Family caregivers, especially those who live in rural areas, know those services are in short supply. There are not enough workers now and the need will grow unless we can increase the paid caregiving workforce.
The cost of living and the cost of caregiving are other factors. Caregiving isn’t cheap. Family caregivers spend about $7,200 of their own money on average—about 26% of their income—on out-of-pocket caregiving expenses. Add in Hawai‘i’s high cost of living and that some caregivers may retire early or quit work to care for loved ones, the financial sacrifices family caregivers make can be overwhelming.
The Hawai‘i Legislature has taken some steps to increase Medicaid payments for companies providing paid caregiving services. But other policies that can help, like paid family leave and a tax credit for family caregivers, were not passed.
If you’re a family caregiver, know that you are not alone.
Help is available and AARP is advocating for you. If we all make our voices heard, there are too many of us for lawmakers to continue to ignore. Hawai‘i must do better for family caregivers and avert the crisis that is clearly ahead of us.
Join us in fighting for caregivers through the state legislature by contacting Advocacy Director Audrey Suga-Nakagawa at hiaaarp@aarp.org.
The findings of a recent Columbia University study—that Hawai‘i is a high-risk state for a family caregiver shortage—should come as no surprise to the estimated 154,000 family caregivers who reside here. AARP estimates that Hawai‘i’s family caregivers put in 144 million hours of unpaid care a year to loved ones in Hawai‘i. If they were…
During National Older Americans Month each May, Hawai‘i’s four county Area Agencies on Aging receive nominations from the public for Outstanding Older Americans known for their volunteer accomplishments. A man and a woman from each county are chosen to be honored. This year’s theme, Flip the Script on Aging, focused on transforming how society perceives, talks about and approaches aging. The following volunteers were honored on June 13, 2025, on O‘ahu.
Dotty Kelly-Paddock (Honolulu County) is an educator and community leader with a lifelong commitment to disability advocacy and resilience planning. She helped develop inclusive education services in U.S.-affiliated Pacific jurisdictions at UH Mānoa’s Center on Disability Studies. She is a Neighborhood Board member in Hau‘ula, president of the Hau‘ula Community Association and Executive Director of Hui O Hau‘ula. She co-founded the Hau‘ula Emergency Leadership Preparedness team and authored strategy that lead to the creation of O‘ahu’s first resilience hub. Her leadership strengthens disaster preparedness and cultural revitalization in Ko‘olauloa and beyond.
Charlene Dorsey (Kaua‘ i County), a Vietnam veteran and retired DOH clerk, is a passionate advocate for veterans. For over a decade, she’s helped lead the Kaua‘i Veterans Council and Miss Kaua‘i Veteran Scholarship Program. She has served with the Kaua‘i Veterans Museum for 15 years, sharing Kaua‘i’s military history and caring for hundreds of artifacts. She co-founded local chapters of Vietnam Veterans of America and AMVETS. She also volunteers with RSVP, Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, Hanapēpē Library and her church. Her strength, optimism and unwavering dedication uplift the veteran community and inspire all who serve alongside her.
Ronald Ebert (Hawai‘i County) of Ka‘ū is a lifelong public servant focused on safety and community resilience. He served as captain of two volunteer fire departments and has led ‘O Ka‘ū Kakou since 2006, supporting health, safety and local events. Ron also serves on the Ka‘ū Hospital Charitable Foundation board, and raises funds with Red Hatters and Ka Lae Quilters. The Ocean View Church of Christ minister supports community safety and outreach, sending $10,000 for Lahaina wildfire recovery. With his wife Nadine and the Pāhala Senior Club, Ron brings heartfelt care and steadfast leadership to every endeavor.
Ed Tagawa (Honolulu County), of Kea‘au is a retired teacher and Army veteran dedicated to lifelong service. After serving in a record-breaking training unit with fellow Hawai‘i soldiers, Ed pursued higher education and then taught at He‘eia Elementary School. Since retiring, Ed has volunteered at Nalo Farms, Ho‘ola Aina Pilipili and Hawai‘i Meals on Wheels. Whether preparing Thanksgiving meals, mentoring new volunteers or assisting at outreach events, Ed embodies the meaning of aloha. As a DMV concierge and neighborhood helper, he brings kindness to every interaction. Known for his friendly nature and tireless service, he touches lives through acts of care and connection.
Gary Smith (Kaua‘ i County) spent his life enriching the Kīlauea community through leadership, historical preservation and civic service. He served on many boards focused on local agriculture and heritage. He’s a passionate historian and educator, working with the Kaua‘i Historical Society and the DOE Kupuna Program to preserve Kilauea’s stories and landscapes. He leads cultural hikes, volunteers with local cemeteries and plays key roles in community events like Kīlauea Kalikimaka. He’s an advocate for safe roads, parks and land stewardship. Known as a storyteller, singer, builder and problem-solver, Gary is a community cornerstone whose energy and dedication span generations.
Patricia Dunn (Hawai‘i County) of Hilo is a model of volunteerism and community spirit. A retired public servant, she fills her days with service—from gardening and ceramics to Meals on Wheels and Lions Club projects. She has helped organize vision screenings, food drives, zoo painting projects and educational events. A member of the Order of the Eastern Star, she has supported scholarships and charitable causes. She’s deeply involved with the Hilo Orchid Society, YMCA tree sales, AARP tax support and the Papaikou Senior Club. Her joy and energy are contagious. She inspires others to get involved, building a sense of belonging.
Bishop Pahia (Maui County) of Waiehu has transformed lives through his work in reentry and prison ministry. A former correctional officer turned MEO Being Empowered and Safe Together specialist, he guided hundreds of formerly incarcerated individuals toward productive lives. He’s helped clients obtain housing, jobs and stability, offering dignity and second chances without judgment. Now retired, he continues volunteering with MEO and co-leads a prison ministry. He’s also MEO’s 2023 Volunteer of the Year. Whether offering support or simply believing in someone, Bishop embodies compassion, humility and the transformative power of care.
Patricia K. Niibu (Lāna‘i City, Maui County) spent decades uplifting her community through education and service. A retired teacher, she now devotes her time to caring for kūpuna—visiting homes, delivering meals and providing companionship with aloha. She volunteers with the Lāna‘i Food Bank and her church, aiding over 100 older adults. She mentors teachers, helps local businesses and contributes to social connection across generations. Whether checking in with elders, volunteering at the school or filling staffing gaps at shops, Patricia meets every need with grace and humility. Her quiet leadership weaves strength, resilience and compassion into the fabric of island life.
During National Older Americans Month each May, Hawai‘i’s four county Area Agencies on Aging receive nominations from the public for Outstanding Older Americans known for their volunteer accomplishments. A man and a woman from each county are chosen to be honored. This year’s theme, Flip the Script on Aging, focused on transforming how society perceives,…
Setsuko “Bess” Matsuoka, age 92, has been a devoted Generations Magazine (GM) reader since the beginning. We at Generations have come to know her well from the many calls she’s made to us, and through her article and recipe submissions. She calls us with holiday greetings and never misses the opportunity to show her appreciation of each and every issue.
“I am very much a fan of Generations,” she told me over the phone. “I love everything about it. I think it is the perfect, perfect magazine. Every one is informative. I look forward to each issue!”
Bess lives independently in a townhouse in Wailuku, Maui. She was born on March 3, 1933, 3-3-33. Her affinity for numerology and appreciation of kismet are in complete harmony with her faith in God and His divine plan. Her spiritual side has always been very strong, she says.
“Everybody I have met, especially those connected with Generations, was orchestrated by divine power,” she says. “There are no coincidences; no accidents,” she says. “Everything happens for a reason.” That includes meeting former GM Editor Katherine Smith. “I was fortunate to become friends with her. Before she left Hawai‘i, she gave me her collection of Generations Magazines. “And I have the very first issue,” she said in a way that convinced me it was very dear to her. “I have read every article in every magazine and every one is precious, so I share them with others, so they can be blessed by reading them, too.”
The issue that really inspired her was “Brothers in Arms” written by Katherine. She said she had the good fortune to get to know Bo Mahoe, one of the subjects of the story. “I also became friends with Sherry Goya, the publisher’s mother. Even though I no longer have a subscription, Sherry sends me complimentary copies. I am thrilled to see them in my mailbox!”
She said she speaks often to GM Art Director Wilson Angel, who she just calls “Angel.” “She has positive comments about each issue,” he says.
Bess retired from the State of Hawai‘i Department of Social Services and now spends her time writing uplifting stories for seniors that capture the wisdom and humor of the old days.
Bess attended the Methodist church for 30 years. But recently, she felt compelled to “go out there with people.” So she began attending Maui Intersection Church, where she helps the unsheltered population by sharing her testimonies, saying “whatever the Lord puts in her heart.”
With appreciation and love, Bess continued to talk about her late husband, her family, and others, including the Generations staff. “The Generations staff puts us, the readers, at the top!”
“No wonder the staff talks about you all the time!” I tell her. “You are so kind!” Bess replies, “What you see in me is actually what is in your heart — like a mirror. I feel blessed to have the Generations staff in my journey through life.”
Setsuko “Bess” Matsuoka, GM’s No. 1 fan, is not just like family—she is family.
We, too, are blessed.
Setsuko “Bess” Matsuoka, age 92, has been a devoted Generations Magazine (GM) reader since the beginning. We at Generations have come to know her well from the many calls she’s made to us, and through her article and recipe submissions. She calls us with holiday greetings and never misses the opportunity to show her appreciation…
Every year, thousands of Hawai‘i residents come together to honor loved ones, caregivers and others who are impacted by Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is more than an event. It is a movement. And here in Hawai‘i, it is a reflection and reminder of who we are, a community that shows up!
In 2025, we invite you to join us on Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Maui and Hawai‘i Island. Whether you are walking for a parent, grandparent, sibling, spouse, neighbor, friend or yourself, your participation matters, because behind every colorful flower in our Promise Garden is a story and behind every step is hope.
New treatments for Alzheimer’s are now available and offer hope for those in the early stages of the disease. That’s why early detection is critical. We have made progress and will continue to work hard to make it a statewide priority, so individuals can be screened, diagnosed early and given access to these promising treatments.
Across Hawai‘i, caregivers are also finding strength through support groups, education and connection with others. But there is still more to be done.
My grandfather lives with Alzheimer’s. As someone whose family has been touched by this disease, I know the burden, the fear and the deep desire to make a difference. The walk gives us that chance. It brings us together to fund the exciting science happening across the field, sustain and expand programs and remind those impacted that they are not alone.
So lace up, show up and walk with us until we can call our walk “the Walk That Ended Alzheimer’s!”
Every year, thousands of Hawai‘i residents come together to honor loved ones, caregivers and others who are impacted by Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is more than an event. It is a movement. And here in Hawai‘i, it is a reflection and reminder of who we are, a…
