October Edition - Aging Well Newsletter

Boulder County Colorado sent this bulletin at 10/07/2020 11:45 AM MDT

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Issue 60 | "Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall." - F. Scott Fitzgerald

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Medicare Open Enrollment Begins Thursday, Oct. 15

What is Medicare Open Enrollment?

It’s the time of year people on Medicare can change their prescription drug (Part D) or Advantage plans (Part C).

Each fall, your Medicare private Part D drug plan or Part C Advantage plan must send a notice (Annual Notice of Change) explaining how your plan’s coverage and costs are changing for the next year. If you did not receive it by Sept. 30, call and ask for it.

If you have a Part D plan it is important to verify your drugs are still covered. Every year, the companies that provide these plans can change the formulary (the list of drugs covered), the amount you pay for each drug and your monthly premium.

If you have a Part C Plan, check for continuing coverage and cost changes of the drugs you need. Also check for changes in benefits, as well as changes in the premium and the costs of services.

If you are satisfied with the plan after reviewing changes for the next year, you don’t need to do anything. If not, you can shop for a different plan and make a change during Open Enrollment. Many Medicare beneficiaries can save money by switching to a different plan.

When is Medicare Open Enrollment?

Medicare Open Enrollment occurs every year only during Oct 15 to Dec 7. It is the time of year Medicare beneficiaries can change their current drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan for a different one.

How do I get help?

Our Medicare Counselors are State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) certified and trained. We offer help to Medicare beneficiaries by reviewing their current plan and comparing it to others.

This year we are not conducting in-person appointments, but are ready to serve you via a virtual, online appointment or over the phone. You will need to provide the most current list of prescription drugs you are taking in order to find the plan that is the best option for you.

How do I make an appointment?

Visit our Medicare Counseling webpage. This is the fastest and most convenient way to secure a time. There you will find a link to get to our online appointment system. Our hour-long counseling sessions are held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays starting at 9:30 am. Appointments start on Oct. 20 and end on Dec. 3.

If you don’t have internet or a device, you can leave a message on our Medicare appointment line at 303-441-1546.

Resisting Ageism in the Time of COVID-19

We have been working with Changing the Narrative to end ageism (prejudice, stereotyping, and discrimination based on age): giving and planning trainings about ageism in and outside of the AAA , providing tools to colleagues to fight ageism, and telling positive stories about older adults—as well as telling stories about how a just community is inclusive of all of us, no matter our age. Yet during COVID-19, negative and inaccurate stereotyping of older adults continues. Read this informative article from the Gerontological Society of America’s recent Public Policy and Aging Report to learn more, including about resisting such stereotyping and the many significant ways that people age 60+ contribute to our communities. Interested in joining the movement to end ageism? See Changing the Narrative.

We will continue to provide online and phone services for residents and clients, with limited, in-person appointments available to help meet critical needs. Our staff is available to answer calls and emails from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Following Boulder County guidelines, we will implement a staggered opening with county policies in place for staff and all in-person office visits. Learn more here.

Boulder County Public Health has updated the Boulder County Facial Covering Order to align with the Colorado Face Covering Order by adopting the face covering requirement in all public indoor spaces for every person over 10 years of age at all times and continuing to require face covering outdoors when social distancing cannot be maintained. The Order does not have an end date and will remain in place until it is rescinded.

Longmont Senior Services staff are responding to emails and phone calls Monday through Friday,
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Email: senior@longmontcolorado.gov

Phone: 303-651-8411

Upcoming Classes from LSC

Self-Care for the Caregiver

Friday, Oct. 9, 10-11:30 a.m.

Caring for yourself is considered the "golden rule" of caregiving, yet it is often forgotten, overlooked, or misunderstood. Come discover the meaning of self-care, why it is so important, and explore some of the essential components of holistic self-care that will allow you to nurture your mind-body-spirit while increasing your caregiving effectiveness, happiness, and longevity.

BeReady Longmont

Tuesday, Oct. 27, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Winter storms, flood, and fire are Longmont's greatest natural hazards. These can result in severe disruptions in utilities and services that we all rely on daily. How would you and your family handle the challenge?

Navigating the Emotional Minefields of Caregiving

Thursday, Oct. 29, 3-4 p.m.

There are a number of potential emotional hazards on the caregiver's journey. Changing family dynamics and roles can be less stressful if we anticipate and communicate about them.

Check out more updates and courses online!

City of Boulder Older Adult Services

Client Services Coordinators with City of Boulder Older Adult Services assist residents of the City of Boulder 60+ and their caregivers with referrals to community resources, counseling on available options, and financial support for eligible clients. Coordinators are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 303-441-4388 (English/Spanish). Sign up for weekly email updates by visiting City of Boulder Older Adults Services.

Click here for up-to-date City of Boulder information and resources around COVID-19.

City of Boulder now offers online programs and ongoing groups!

Click on the image below, then register by clicking the title of the programs and classes found inside the Program Guide or call 719-985-1367 for more information or to register by phone. Before the day of the program you will receive a link to join online, or a phone number if you prefer to call in to participate.

Louisville Senior Services

The Louisville Recreation & Senior Center is currently closed. Check out their Facebook page for reopening dates and procedures for use. Staff are available by phone or email Monday through Friday. Allow one business day to receive a return call or message.

Email: Ktofte@louisvilleco.gov

Phone: 303-335-4919

Upcoming Events from Louisville Senior Services

Bloomin Seniors Garden Club Meeting

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Guiding Eyes for the Blind

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 11 a.m.-noon

Contact David Law, Beyond Vision Skills Trainer, at david@cpwd.org or 303-442-8662 (ext. 249) to register.

Wellness & Resource Fair @ Brookes Café Curbside Pickup

Join Louisville Senior Services for lunch and receive a Wellness & Resource Tote with resource information and giveaway on Friday, Oct. 30 from noon to 12:30 p.m. Menu includes creamy pasta with bacon and chicken breast, roasted brussels sprouts, whole apple, and whole wheat roll.

To register for this event, call 303-335-4919 or email brookscafe@louisvilleco.gov.

Learn about more upcoming programming here!

The City of Lafayette Senior Services Resource Coordinator can help you access resources, support, and services, often free or low cost:

Short term financial assistance for when you get in a money pinch
Home health services and grants
Dental, vision & hearing aid grants
Food, meals & shopping resources
Mental health, addiction & counseling referrals
Completing various forms & applications
Advocacy & problem solving help
...and much more!

Email: lafayetteseniorservices@gmail.com

Phone: 303-472-4806

Upcoming Courses from Lafayette Senior Services

Virtual Book Clubs

Option 1:

Book Club - Meet once a month on the second Friday, 9-10 a.m. via Zoom.

Option 2:

Mystery Book Club - Meet once a month on the first Friday, 10-11 a.m. via Zoom.

Email barrowman.lafayette@gmail.com to register and for further information.

Virtual Social Hour

Every Thursday beginning at 1 p.m. Email danabellomy.lafayette@gmail.com to register or for further information.

Service Connection in the Mountains

Mountain Communities

Email: infoADRC@bouldercounty.org

Phone - English or Spanish: 303-441-1617

Website: www.bouldercountyhelp.org

Town of Erie, Parks & Recreation - Active Adults Service Updates

Erie Active Adults staff are responding to emails and phone calls, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Email: chickman@erieco.gov

Phone: 303-926-2795

The Town of Erie's Active Adults program is providing a curbside meal service at the Erie Community Center.

Reservations are required by calling 303-926-2795 or emailing chickman@erieco.gov by Tuesday evenings prior to the Thursday meal date.

Zoom Coffee Talk

The link above will take you directly to the meeting.

Mondays, 9 a.m.

Zoom BINGO

Call 303-926-2795 or email Cindy Hickman to make arrangements to pick up bingo cards.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, Noon

Online Effective Communication Strategies for People with Dementia

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2-3:30 p.m.

Sunset Stroll - Thomas Reservoir

Thursday, Oct. 29, 5-6 p.m.

Thank you, Peggy!

Peggy Wallis (pictured above with her grandson, Murphy) has been volunteering for us as a Long Term Care Ombudsman for almost two years. Peggy brings real world experience to her role - she cared for her mother with dementia and advocated for her mother’s care and quality of life in long-term care. After her illustrious career as an attorney, Peggy decided to dedicate even more of her life to helping others, volunteering in criminal justice as well as her ombudsman role. She is always willing to take on challenging cases and enthusiastically dives into any issues presented, while ensuring the perspective of the resident is never lost. Peggy has a knack for working with folks with dementia, and has successfully advocated for residents in several complicated cases in our local memory care facilities. She covers for staff ombudsmen with ease and is always reliable for fellow ombudsmen, residents, families, and facility staff.

We appreciate your dedication to the program and our wonderful community, Peggy!

We celebrate Resident Rights Month in October, as designated by the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care. Resident Rights Month is an opportunity for nursing home and assisted living residents, family members, friends, ombudsmen, long term care facilities, and community members to honor the individual rights of long-term care residents. Resident rights are protected by both federal and state law. Just like all Americans, residents of long-term care are individuals with unique preferences and tastes, who have valuable input that should shape what their lives look like every day.

This year’s theme is “Connection Matters.” The theme emphasizes connections – to family, to friends, and to the community – as an essential component of good health and quality of life for residents. These connections have been made all the more important during the months of restrictions on in-person connections for residents of assisted living and nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. While we watch the impact of isolation on all of us, we recognize that this is compounded for those of us living in long-term care. Join us as we bring to mind our community members who live in assisted livings and nursing homes in Boulder County and the rights that they maintain as they transition through various living arrangements.

Be a Flu Fighter!

Arm yourself against the flu with your annual flu vaccine, which is covered by Medicare!

Where and how you get a flu vaccine this fall may need to change due to the pandemic. The CDC has provided guidance for providers on how to vaccinate people in a safe environment. Visit Vaccine Finder to find a flu vaccine location near you!

Who should get vaccinated this season? According to the CDC, everyone six months and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions.

Your work is essential!

Protect yourself and others from flu and COVID-19 this fall and winter:

Mask Up - Wear a face mask that covers your nose and mouth. And keep your distance (at least six feet) from others when you can.
Lather Up - Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Sleeve Up - Getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever. Everyone six months and older should get a flu vaccine every season.

Join our Veterans Service Officer, Karen Townsend, for a series of presentations on benefits available to veterans, including:

Service-Connected Disability

Wednesday, Oct. 21, noon-1 p.m.

Veterans Pension

Wednesday, Nov. 18, noon-1 p.m.

Survivors Benefits

Tuesday, Nov. 24, noon-1 p.m.

Suicide Prevention

Tuesday, Dec. 8, noon-1 p.m.

Learn more and register for these upcoming sessions here!

We are partnering with Good Samaritan Medical Center to host the Aging Mastery Program!

Why participate?

Learn to make small changes that can impact your health, financial well-being, and enjoyment in later life.
Meet new friends, support, and encourage your peers, and become more involved in your community.
Have fun!

When: Wednesdays and Fridays, Oct. 18 - Nov. 20, 10-11 a.m.

Where: Online "Google Meet" meeting. A link will be sent to registrants.

Cost: Free!

Registration: Space is limited. Please RSVP to Peggy Jarrett at 303-689-5229 or peggy.jarrett@sclhealth.org by Oct. 19.

Learn more here!

Join us for a Virtual Medicare Basics Class

Boulder County Area Agency on Aging’s Medicare Counseling program is offering live virtual Medicare Basis Classes. These lively and entertaining classes are designed to provide the necessary information to older adults when getting ready to apply for Medicare. Participants will learn about how and when to enroll, the different parts of Medicare, what is covered and what is not, Medicare fraud, and much more!

Interested participants will need internet; a computer, tablet, or phone; and the appropriate application for the class. Please click on any one of the class times below to register. Once registered, participants will receive instruction on how to join the class. Online courses will be using the Microsoft Teams platform.

For more information, or to set up an appointment, please call 303-441-1546.

Diabetes Support and Education Group

This group is for Boulder County residents (60+) with a diabetes diagnosis or those caring for someone with a diabetes diagnosis. Join us on Monday, Oct. 19 from 11 a.m. to noon for this month’s topic, “Sodium: Effects on Diabetes and Overall Health.” This program is conducted by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who is also a Certified Diabetes Educator. Please email us with your contact information. A link to the virtual meeting and handouts will be sent to you. If phone is preferred, we can call you to let you know of the phone number to call in.

Resource Connection & Volunteer Opportunities

Boulder County COVID-19 Resources

Boulder County is working with community partners to help those impacted by COVID-19. Check out this webpage for resources on accessing emergency assistance.

BCAAA Ombudsmen Are Here to Serve

If you or a loved one lives in an assisted living or nursing home, you know that COVID-19 has dramatically impacted these homes, the people who live there, and their loved ones. Those of us who live in long term care are much more isolated. The BCAAA Long Term Care Ombudsman (LTCO) program is still active and a resource to residents and loved ones of residents in long-term care. While LTCO are not physically in nursing homes and assisted livings, we are maintaining regular contact with those we serve, following all orders and regulations in place.

Know your rights - LTCO help residents resolve problems and ensure quality care and services. You can reach email us or give us a call at 303-441-1173 with any questions or concerns.

COVID-19 Updates

Boulder County Public Health is continuing to closely monitor the COVID-19 outbreak and is in close and regular contact with public health partners. Check out local, updated information on COVID-19.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is sharing status updates on the outbreak. Click here to learn more about risk, to access fact sheets, and status updates.

Volunteer and Donation Opportunities

Help those affected by volunteering or donating with HelpColoradoNow.org. Boulder County staff are monitoring local volunteer sign-ups through this site. Clinical volunteers are also needed for the Boulder County Medical Reserve Corps - learn more and sign up to volunteer.

Upcoming Classes, Some Entertainment, and Resources

Rainbow Elders of Boulder County will be cohosting Supper Club with Out Boulder County this Thursday, Oct. 8 via Zoom. Lindsay of Lindsay's Boulder Deli @ Haagen Dazs will be leading participants in cooking salmon with a corn side. This meal will be gluten free, dairy free, and pescatarian, and suggestions will be given to replace the salmon with a vegetarian/vegan option.

The Supper Club will take place via Zoom on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. Click here to join the meeting directly. Please plan to have the following ingredients before the meeting! After cooking is complete, the group will eat together enjoying conversation and community.

Ingredient List:

For the main dish: Salmon (Tofu, Tempeh, or Seitan) Honey (Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar), Soy Sauce, Dijon Mustard, Salt & Pepper

For the side salad: Corn on the Cob, Avocado, Baby Tomato, Dijon Mustard, Lemon Juice, Olive Oil, Salt & Pepper

Cookware: Baking Sheet, Aluminum Foil, Cooking Spray, Microwave, Oven

To RSVP for this event, or if you have any questions, please email Charlie Prohaska (they/them).

Stay up to date on event details here.

The mission of Active Minds is to expand lives and minds by providing outstanding educational programs. They believe in lifelong learning and fostering active minds for life. To learn more about any of the programs listed below, please visit the Active Minds website.

Thursday, Oct. 8, noon - 1 p.m. - Colorado Ballot 2020
Wednesday, Oct. 14, 1-2 p.m. - The American West
Monday, Oct. 26, 3-4 p.m. - The History of Radio

The dementia journey can be very lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. We are fortunate to live in an area that has many resources available to offer support to all those living with this disease and their family or informal caregivers. Check out the types of resources provided by the Alzheimer’s Association at no cost to the community below. You may also be interested in information about changing caregiver needs as dementia progresses here.

Education classes are presented throughout the region and provide an excellent opportunity to receive accurate information from a reliable source.
Care consultations provide assistance in creating a written action plan that helps a family or informal caregiver know what steps they need to take next.
Support groups are available across the region at various dates and times to make it as easy as possible for family and informal caregivers of someone living with dementia to attend.
24/7 helpline is available any time you need to talk. Call 1-800-272-3900.

Every Wednesday morning at 10 a.m., Boomers Leading Change gather together around their favorite mug for great conversation and company. Upcoming discussions include "What's Cooking? What is your favorite cuisine and how did you develop an appreciation for it?" on Oct. 7, "What If I Told You: What is something about you that people would be surprised to know?" on Oct. 14, "What good things will come from the pandemic for you, your family, the country?" on Oct. 21, and "Trick or Treat: What was your favorite Halloween costume as a kid or adult and why?" on Oct. 28. Register here.

Boomers Leading Change introduces new resources that support older adults who want to make friendly connections. Sign up to participate in their pen pal, email pal, and phone tree opportunities on their webpage. You can also join their new Garden Club or the Recipe Club.

Senior Planet created a series of 'Stuck-at-Home Guides' to walk folks through online grocery shopping, filling prescriptions, online games, and even ballet.

Senior Planet has a Virtual & Phone Tech Helpline. The Colorado Hotline is 303-218-7320.

Here's a quick primer from Senior Planet on finding easy online puzzles and games.

You can sign up for their newsletters here.

Well Connected is a telephone-based national program that offers free weekly activities, education, friendly conversation, classes, support groups, and presentations to individuals 60 years or older anywhere in the United States for English and Spanish speakers. Activities occur throughout the day, every day, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., depending on the day. Sessions run between 30 minutes to one hour. Well Connected offers a program called Social Call, in which volunteers call participants for a weekly phone visit. For more information, email coviaconnections@covia.org or call 877-797-7299. For more information or to register for Well Connected programs go to https://covia.org/services/well-connected/ or call 1-877-797-7299.

CBS Sunday Morning features clips at the end of each show through their Sunday Morning Nature series. There are hours of these one to two minute clips available on their Facebook page. In addition, they offer their Rise and Shine Series featuring their gorgeous theme song played by folks from around the world, the Sunday Matinee, and latest clips from the show on their Facebook Watch page. Enjoy!

Activity Recommendations from our Healthy Aging Team

Before beginning any exercise program, remember to exercise at a level that is appropriate for your current physical ability, stay close to a chair or other form of support and use as needed, modify the exercise itself for your level (i.e. sit rather than stand, if needed), modify the number of repetitions or amount of time as needed, stop if breathing becomes difficult or you have pain, and always follow your doctor of physical therapist's guidelines.

Check out weekly Health and Wellness Tips from our team in English and Spanish.

National Institutes of Aging - Exercise and Physical Activity

National Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability - In addition to physical activity videos, check out their meditation videos. Check out this strength and cardio video tailored for exercising at home.

Arthritis Foundation - Walk with Ease Exercises

Check out these free yoga and mindfulness videos from Yoga with Adriene.