Issue 83

The Boulder County Area Agency on Aging Caregiver Initiative is focused on empowering and supporting caregivers of older adults. Learn more about what we offer at boco.org/Caregiving.

Upcoming Caregiving Events

2022 Boulder County Caregiver Appreciation Event

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 1-2:30 p.m.

For most people rooted in Western culture, it is difficult to ask for and receive help from other people. The reality is that we will all need help due to the challenges posed by aging and/or illness. How are we to overcome our resistance to assistance?

Please tune in to hear about Collaborative Care – Working and Caring Together.

This event is geared at those caregiving for someone 60+ or those with a dementia diagnosis of any age.

Register for "2022 Boulder County Caregiver Appreciation Event" here.

Assistive Technology - Gadgets and Gizmos for Caregivers

Tuesday, Dec. 13, 10-11:30 a.m., virtual

 Caregiving can be a lot of things. Time consuming and exhausting are just a few. There are many items that can assist in daily tasks that will make everyone’s life easier, including the caregiver. This presentation will provide an overview of different devices that can be used in all areas of an individual’s life to keep them safe and more independent.

Register for "Assistive Technology - Gadgets and Gizmos for Caregivers" here.

Disclaimer: Boulder County Community Services is not a healthcare provider and cannot provide medical advice. This resource is provided for informational purposes only. Individuals should seek medical advice directly from a licensed medical professional.

Ask a Caregiving Expert

Dear BCAAA,

I am concerned about my partner’s memory loss. What should I do?

Signed, A Concerned Caregiver

Dear Concerned Caregiver,

Thank you for reaching out to BCAAA! In collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Association, we are here to help you navigate challenges associated with caregiving. 

Five Questions For Your Doctor About Concerns

If you or a loved one have concerns about memory loss or other unexplained changes in behavior, getting an expert opinion from your family doctor is an important first step in understanding how to proceed.

Medicare offers a free annual wellness visit for those 65 and older where patients can request a brain health assessment. If you don’t see your family physician frequently, they may not know you well enough to determine if you are experiencing cognitive changes.

To help, the Alzheimer’s Association has developed a list of five questions that individuals or family members can ask their doctor to help ensure that the visit is productive and patients get proper direction.

1. Do I (or the patient) have any medical conditions that could increase my risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?
2. Am I taking any medications that could be causing memory or cognitive-related symptoms?
3. What tests could you perform that might rule out Alzheimer’s or dementia as a diagnosis?
4. Are you aware of my family history – particularly among immediate family (grandparents, parents or siblings) related to Alzheimer’s or dementia?
5. Should I be concerned about … (explain any changes in memory, focus, thinking or mood)?

“This is a good starting point for having a productive conversation with your family doctor,” said Danelle Hubbard, director of Health Systems for the Alzheimer’s Association in the Rocky Mountain region. “I would suggest bringing these questions in writing along with any other specific concerns or examples you may have. There can be a number of reasons behind memory loss and mood change, so it’s important to get guidance from your doctor as early as possible.”

Take good care, Your BCAAA Caregiving Team and the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is here to help families prepare for and cope for such extraordinary circumstances. For more information, visit www.alz.org or call the Association’s free Helpline, staffed by trained professionals around-the-clock, at 800-272-3900.

Call the BCAAA at 303-441-1617 or visit BoulderCountyhelp.org to learn about local durable medical equipment closets, fix-it programs, home modification options, and to connect with a Resource Specialist to determine if someone qualifies for temporary programs that provide fall prevention strategies, home modifications, and safety recommendations. Visit boco.org/caregiving to learn more about services and educational opportunities.

Written by Jim Herlihy, Senior Marketing & Communications Director of the Alzheimer’s Association

Happy Senior and Age Well Center Month!

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City of Longmont Senior Services

The Longmont Senior Center (LSC) is OPEN Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Their resource specialists and counselors are now offering home visits and in-person appointments. Check out classes from City of Longmont Senior Services in The GO Catalog! (View the Summer GO for June, July, and August programming.) Email: senior@longmontcolorado.gov Phone: 303-651-8411 Sign up for weekly email updates by visiting Longmont Senior Services or emailing senior@longmontcolorado.gov.

Caregiver Services for friends or family members caring for an older adult in Longmont include:

• Caregiver Consultations and Family Meetings: Referrals & information about adult day programs, home health care, long-term care, counseling, caregiver self-care, etc.
• Respite & Companion Volunteer Program and Respite Assistance referrals: Volunteers matched with older adults who live alone or with a family caregiver provide respite, a friendly visit, and a caring connection. Respite Assistance funds can help pay for respite care for a caregiver.
• Social Groups and Educational Programs for family caregivers and those living with dementia (options may vary quarterly).
• Caregiver Support Groups provide information and support for family caregivers; no registration required: 
• 1st Monday, 6–7:30 p.m. at Longmont Senior Center
• 2nd Tuesday, noon – 1:30 p.m. (Alzheimer’s Assn. group) at Longmont Senior Center

Questions? Call Brandy Queen with City of Longmont Senior Services at 303-651-8414.

Upcoming Programming from the Longmont Senior Center

Coping with the Holidays When You Are Grieving

Friday, Nov. 4, 1-2:30 p.m. (Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #485095.00)

The holidays can present challenges for those who are grieving a loss. Learning to trust your grief, restructure expectations, and understand how grief may be affecting family members can help you navigate what can be a challenging time. In this interactive workshop we will explore the tools necessary to take good care of yourself during the winter holidays. This program is open to the bereaved as well as friends and family.

Longmont Senior Services Open House

Saturday, Nov. 5, 9 a.m.-noon

Longmont Senior Center's volunteers, participants, and staff are proud of the community they have created at Longmont Senior Services. You will have an opportunity to meet a variety of talented artists, educated and insightful instructors, and our passionate staff and volunteers. We will be providing tours of the building in addition to live entertainment, refreshments, and the opportunity to sample some of our programs and resources. All are welcome – feel free to bring family, friends, or neighbors.

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's

Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2:30-4 p.m. (Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #485042.00)

Alzheimer’s and other dementias cause changes in memory, thinking, and behavior that interfere with daily life. Join us to learn about 10 common warning signs and what to watch for in yourself and others, typical age-related changes, how to approach someone about memory concerns, early detection, the benefits of a diagnosis and the diagnostic process, and Alzheimer’s Association resources.

Mammography Saves Lives

Thursday, Nov. 17, noon-1 p.m. Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #485201.00)

One in eight women will get breast cancer - the most common cancer in women. 75 % of women who get breast cancer are of “average risk” - with no family history of the disease or other high-risk factors. The most lives are saved from breast cancer when women get screened every year. Compared to women who are not screened, women age 75-84 who continue to have screening mammograms every year cut their chance of dying of breast cancer by about 65- 70%. Mammograms can find tumors too small to be felt. Small cancers are easier and less costly to treat, and have a better chance for cure. Learn more in this discussion with Dr. Hilarie Guteirrez, fellowship trained breast radiologist Obstetrics and Gynecology, Longmont United Hospital. (Light snack will be provided.)

City of Boulder Older Adult Services offers a variety of health and wellness, lifelong learning, aging in place, special interest groups, and travel/trip opportunities. Many programs are offered online as well as in person at the East Age Well Center and West Age Well Center. In addition, Client Services Coordinators are available to assist City of Boulder residents 60+ and their caregivers with referrals to community resources, options counseling, and financial support for eligible clients. To speak with a Client Services Coordinator, please call 303-441-4388. For a complete list of Nov. 2022 programs and services, please visit the website to view the “Let’s Age Well!” program guide. For weekly updates, register online to receive the Age Well e-Newsletter.

Nov. 2022 Featured Programs

American Mah Jongg for Beginners

West Age Well Center. Mondays and Wednesdays, November 7 – 16, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Fees: R/NR $92/$115

Learn to play American Mah Jongg, a game of both skill and luck. Gain a basic understanding of the game's fundamentals and some basic strategies to enjoy the game. Instructor: Donna Mayo. This course consists of four classes.

Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing”.

Wednesdays and Fridays, Nov. 9 – Dec. 9, 10-11 a.m.

Join instructor Lori Lucas in a series of eight online classes to discuss Shakespeare's well-known comedy "Much Ado About Nothing". R/NR fees per household: $50/$63.

Bone Health.

Online, Thursday, Nov. 10, 10–11 a.m.

Join Tim O’Neal, registered dietician and nutrition coach, to explore how regular exercise and proper nutrition promote greater bone mineral density across the lifespan.

Collette Travel Information and Social Gathering.

West Age Well Center, Monday, Nov. 14, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Learn about an escorted group tour in Ireland and other destinations in 2023 and 2024.  Also connect with other travel-minded people to meet each other, share helpful travel information, and inquire about destinations of interest.

Building Strength at Home: Progressive Movements for Daily Life.

East Age Well Center, Monday, Nov. 14, 12:30–2 p.m.

This workshop is a participative, experiential and problem-solving workshop for each participant to identify weaknesses in standing, posture, alignment, or movement and to design a personal progression towards building the strength to correct it.

Meetup: Tour of Boulder County Recycling & Hazardous Waste Materials Management Facility, followed by optional coffee at Ozo.

1901 63^rd St., Boulder, Tuesday, Nov. 15, 1–4 p.m.

Visit Boulder County’s recycling center and take a guided tour of the Hazardous Materials Management Facility.  After the tours, enjoy an optional beverage and snack while socializing at Ozo Coffee Company (self-pay).

Living Well with Dementia: Fostering Hope, Health and Happiness.

West Age Well Center, Wednesday, Nov. 16, 11 a.m. – noon.

Join Ralph Patrick, Alzheimer’s Association Regional Director, to discuss the positive aspects of Alzheimer’s and dementia and explore practical suggestions on how to travel this path.

Living History Performance: Erma Bombeck, “By Your Side”.

West Age Well Center, Monday, Nov. 21, 1–2 p.m.

This one-hour program includes a monologue in-character, followed first by a Q&A with “Erma Bombeck” and then Q&A with the presenter, Susan Marie Frontczak. 

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West Age Well Center:  909 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder | 303-441-3148

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Meals on Wheels’ Eat Well Café: Monday – Friday, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

East Age Well Center:  5660 Sioux Drive, Boulder | 303-413-7290

Monday – Friday 8 a.m.–2 p.m.

Town of Erie Parks & Recreation - Active Adults

Erie Active Adults staff are available, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Email: ActiveAdults@erieco.gov Phone: 303-926-2795 The Town of Erie's Active Adults program provides a Senior Nutrition Lunch Program at the Erie Community Center. Reservations are required by calling 303-926-2569 or emailing ActiveAdults@erieco.gov prior to the meal date. Check out upcoming Active Adults programming here.

Meditation Class

Tuesday, Nov. 15-Dec. 6, 6:30-7:15 p.m.

The fee is $32 for residents and $40 for non-residents.

This class incorporates breath work while combining Progressive Muscle Relaxation, relaxing one body part at a time, and guided imagery, which walks you through a visual meditation. These techniques can help to increase mindfulness, and assist in finding a calm and peaceful state.

Reiki

Monday, Dec. 12, 3-7 p.m. (Register by Wednesday, Dec. 7)

The fee is $60 for residents and $75 for non-residents.

Reiki is an ancient Japanese relaxation technique. It’s been used to bring calm to one’s self. Anxiety and stress have damaging side effects: headaches, depression, sleeplessness, weight gain, or ulcers. More people are returning to natural remedies. Enjoy a 45-minute sessions, fully clothed, with light minimal, non-invasive, hands-on touch in a series of locations on the body.

Beginner Tai Chi

Fridays, Dec. 9-30, 8-9 a.m.

The fee is $32 for residents and $40 for non-residents.

Tai Chi is an easy and gentle exercise that develops body awareness and overall health. Studies show, and based on one’s practice, Tai Chi can increase muscle strength, flexibility, balance, aerobic conditioning, and lower blood pressure. Tai Chi is also a great exercise for the mind by increasing memory, concentration and reducing stress. Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Tai Chi II

Wednesdays, Dec. 7-28, 8-9 a.m.

The fee is $32 for residents and $40 for non-residents.

In this class, emphasis is on practicing the first third of the Simplified 37-Posture Form, taught by Cheng Man-ching. There's a short warm-up, and then practice the form for the rest of the time. Consistent form practice can improve balance, memory, and concentration. The slow movements and breathing can help students relax. Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Black Hawk Casino - Moderate

Monday, Dec. 12, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The fee is $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents.

Come see why Black Hawk is one of Colorado's top destination cities. Enjoy the city on your own either spending time sightseeing, playing exciting casino games, or eating gourmet food. Fee includes transportation. Meals are on your own. Registration deadline is two weeks prior to date.

You can reach Lafayette Senior Services at olderadults@lafayetteco.gov or 303-665-9052. For the latest information, sign up for the Senior Spotlight by visiting www.lafayetteco.gov/seniors. The Lafayette Senior Center (103 S. Iowa Avenue) is open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. In-person and online programs are available. For more information, please visit the Lafayette Senior Services webpage and check out the City of Lafayette Activity Guide. Loan Closet You can check out equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, knee scooters, canes, crutches, transfer benches, shower seats, and temporary ramps. Check out basic mobility equipment by calling 303-665-9052 or emailing Olderadults@lafayetteco.gov. Resource Coordinator available to assist City of Lafayette residents 60+ and their families or caregivers with referrals to community resources, financial assistance, legal resources and more.

Louisville Senior Services

Louisville Senior Services at the Recreation & Senior Center currently offers a variety of trips, classes and activities, as well as Brooks Café indoor dining and Grab N Go lunch. Senior Resources help in the areas of transportation, housing, legal assistance, financial guidance and medical equipment loans are also available.  For more information, contact Katie Beasley at 303-335-4914 or visit our website at www.louisvillerecreation.com