Issue 85

The Boulder County Area Agency on Aging (BCAAA) 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

Five Dementia Questions & the Answers

Tuesday, Feb. 14, 10-11:30 a.m. (Zoom)

There are five questions about dementia every family or informal caregiver needs to understand to prepare for the disease process with their loved one.

Register for "Five Dementia Questions & the Answers" here.

After the Diagnosis, Living with a Serious Disease

Tuesday, March 14, 10-11:30 a.m. (Zoom)

In the aftermath of the diagnosis of a serious disease, we often feel dazed, confused, and afraid. A natural reaction to devastating—and often unexpected—news. Based upon the specifics of our diagnosis and situation, we will confront the challenge, consider the options, and make the necessary decisions. Fundamental to how we move through the process includes: realizing that the diagnosis is a family challenge, recognizing that our attitude shapes our expectations, and understanding that different stages of the disease present unique challenges and opportunities.

Register for "After the Diagnosis, Living with a Serious Disease" here.

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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 noticed my dad is not eating well and the house is messy. I think he cannot live on his own anymore and I would like to have a conversation with him about potentially moving somewhere he can get care.  Where do we start in making long term care plans?  

Signed, A Concerned Caregiver

Dear Concerned Caregiver,

Thank you for reaching out to BCAAA! We are here to help you navigate challenges associated with caregiving. 

1. Communicate and work with the person to determine what they need now and in the future. You may want to ask the person what daily tasks they need help with in order to care for themselves, their home, and manage other parts of their life. You may also want to consider if the person can do these safely without falling or accidentally getting injured. Consider if the person can remember to do the activities.
2. Consider if the person’s living environment and home. Think about if they need changes to their home, someone to come help them with daily tasks, or someone to live with them. The person may also need to live with others or consider a higher level of care, such as an assisted living facility or long-term care. You can creatively consider if a neighbor, friend, or other may be able to help or move in. It is helpful to engage the person’s larger support system for a plan and Our Family, Our Way from Scripps Gerontology Center has a great program to help families work through planning.
3. Realistically consider the person’s finances. Assisted living and long-term care can be costly and may not be covered or fully covered by Medicare, insurance, or other programs. It may be helpful to contact a Medicare counselor to learn more about what is and is not covered for medical care and living expenses. Boulder County's Medicare Counseling Team has SHIP certified Medicare counselors to help you navigate Medicare and Medicare-related programs. Careful consideration must be given to the ability to qualify for Medicaid. It might be a good idea to consult with an elder law attorney and you can find out more about local elder law attorneys at bouldercountyhelp.org You can also look here for the cost of long term care by state.
4. Plan for legal and end of life affairs. Having legal affairs in order will be a topic in another edition and you can also listen to a past Caregiver Education Series: Legal Consideration for Caregiving, End-of-Days, and End-of-Life.
5. Pay attention to your own stress levels as increased caregiving focus can lead to greater mental health support needs. BCAAA has Caregiving Resource Specialists available to talk through these challenges and can be reached at 303-441-1617 or at infoCaregiver@bouldercounty.org.

Take good care, Your BCAAA Caregiving Team

Call the BCAAA at 303-441-1617 or visit boco.org/caregiving to learn more about services and educational opportunities.

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

Advanced Directives

Thursday, Feb. 9, 9:30-11 a.m. (Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #185002.02)

The fee is $5 for residents and $6 for non-residents.

There is no better time than the present to consider and clarify your wishes for medical treatment in the event you cannot speak for yourself. Preparing documents expressing those wishes ahead of time is a true gift to yourself, as well as your loved ones and physician, relieving them of the uncertainty of how you want to be treated. In this class, we will review the various documents related to advance planning (medical power of attorney, living will, and Five Wishes) and provide you with the necessary materials.

Automatic Music: Film from the Video Production Club

Friday, Feb. 10, 1-2:30 p.m. (Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #184201.02)

Before the invention of the radio and the phonograph, in order to have music in the home, one would have to learn to play a musical instrument or, if affluent, hire someone. Perhaps there was an easier way to have music in the home without having to study music and practice for years to become proficient. Introducing the mechanical music machine. In this Behind Closed Doors series film, Bill Decker demonstrates his collection of mechanical pianos, orchestrion, music boxes, and pipe organ, all from the 1920s, and tells you a little about what makes them work.

Navigating Dementia in Light of Other Illnesses

Friday, Feb. 24, 9-11 a.m. (Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #185091.00)

What factors might you want to consider when a person with dementia is faced with making decisions for their health? How might a dementia diagnosis affect other serious illnesses, such as a cancer or heart failure diagnosis? What should you take into account as you navigate hospital and doctor’s office settings alongside persons with dementia? The TRU Palliative Care team will discuss strategies for navigating various healthcare settings and other serious illnesses while keeping in the mind the physical, emotional, and spiritual impacts of dementia, as well as the person’s and care partner’s quality of life.

Misquotes of the Founding Fathers

Tuesday, Feb. 28, 1-2:30 p.m. (Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #184336.00)

The fee is $4 for residents and $5 for non-residents.

Misquoting Founders has become a political epidemic. Historical references and quotes have become a popular means to validate one’s own opinion. Unfortunately, many pontificators in their enthusiasm misquote the very person they wish to justify their own position. Misquotes come in several forms, i) one can attribute something to a founder they never said, ii) one can attribute a quote to a well-known founder that somebody else said, iii) one can distort or change an original quote, or iv) one can take a quote out of context and change its meaning. Some quotes were used with malice, some may have been honest mistakes, and some involved stupidity. In the interest of truth, justice, and the American way, we debunk some egregious and well-known misquotations of our Founders.

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 and West Age Well Centers. 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 Feb. 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.

Feb. Featured Programs

Technology Coaching: February. Contracted technology coaches assist older adult city residents with technology needs, either by phone, in person, or online. Customers must be 60+ years old and a resident of the City of Boulder. Register online or call Older Adult Services at 303-441-3148.

CircleTalk™.

Online, Tuesdays, Feb. 7 – April 4, 2–3 p.m.

Trained CircleTalk leaders use evocative prompts to create a safe, positive space for participants to share stories and discuss with others what has been most meaningful and what is important for the future.

Move With Ease: A Series to Introduce Feldenkrais.

East Age Well Center, Tuesdays, Feb. 7–28, 2:30–4 p.m. Fees: R/NR $40/$50.

The Feldenkrais Method of Somatic Education® helps participants learn to move with ease using slow, mindful movements to achieve powerful effects in terms of balance, flexibility, and coordination.

SPARK and Studio Arts Boulder Pottery Class.

West Age Well Center, Tuesday, Feb. 14, 1–2:30 p.m.

Participants learn about the fundamentals of pottery to make functional and whimsical pieces. SPARK programs are designed for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases, including dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, who are accompanied by their caregiver or partner.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

West Age Well Center, Wednesday, Feb 15, 11 a.m. – noon. 

Alzheimer’s is not normal aging. It’s a disease of the brain that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Join this program to learn about the impact of Alzheimer’s.

Nutrition for Stroke Prevention.

Online, Thursday, Feb. 16, 10–11 a.m.

Join Tim O’Neil, registered dietician and nutrition coach, to explore the strong link between nutrition, exercise, and stroke prevention.

NeuroPong™ Table Tennis.

West Age Well Center, each Thursday, 12:45–2:45 p.m.

NeuroPong is a table tennis program for people living with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis and early-stage dementia. Registration required, contact Antonio Barbera, MD at 303-667-1735 or abarbera@tabletennisconnections.org

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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.–4:30 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.

Dinner and Concert with Shelvis and the Roustabouts

Friday, Feb. 17, 6-8 p.m.

The fee is $16 for residents and $20 for non-residents.

Shelvis is an entertainment powerhouse who captures the audience with her amazing vocals and high-energy performances. Her and her band of Roustabouts transport the audience to a time when rock was born. It's not a gig, it's a SHOW! Catered dinner provided. Cash bar available. Registration deadline February 5. Event sponsored by Family Hearing. The meal includes chicken cordon bleu, glazed carrots, rice pilaf, and a roll.

The Magic of Watercolor Paints

Wednesdays, Feb. 8-22, Noon-2:30 p.m. (Subject: River Rock)

The fee is $84 for residents and $105 for non-residents.

Discover the joy of watercolor painting. Regardless of your experience, there is something for everyone with this versatile, luminesce paint.  In a relaxing and supportive environment, Kristi will walk you through this painting step-by-step, giving you the confidence to paint, explore and have fun.

Bargello Quilting

Saturday, Feb. 25, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (Register by Feb. 19)

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

In this class see how strips of fabric can create stunning results. Whether using one of Jackie's patterns or going improv, you're sure to come away with a piece of art.

Living with Alzheimer’s: For People with Early Stage Alzheimer’s and Care Partners

Tuesdays, Feb. 21-March 7, 9:30-11 a.m.

In the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease, families face new questions as they adjust. What does the diagnosis mean? What kinds of plans need to be made? What resources are available to help? Hear from those directly affected and learn what you can do to cope with the changes that come with an early-stage diagnosis.

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. Call 303-665-9052 or email olderadults@lafayetteco.gov to register. For more information, visit lafayetteco.gov/seniors. 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.   Upcoming Events from Lafayette Senior Services Molly Brown House Museum Sunday, Feb. 8, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Historic Denver’s Molly Brown House Museum enhances Denver’s unique identity by telling the story of Margaret “Molly” Brown’s activism, philanthropy, and passion. There is lots to learn about this woman of adventure! Join us as we tour this unique museum. We will also stop at a fun place to have lunch as well. Dress for the weather and bring money for lunch! Valentine’s Day Event Tuesday, Feb. 14, 1-2:30 p.m. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the fun and flair of flamenco dancing! Mariana Ole and her dance troupe will perform dazzling dances for us at the Senior Center. We will also treat you all with special Valentine dessert while we enjoy the performance. Nature Journaling with Rebecca Lefebvre Tuesday, Feb. 21, 1-3 p.m. Journaling has been proven to boost your mood, improve your sense of well-being, and improve your memory. Those sound-like good things that we hope you will join us for! Rebecca Lefebvre, RN, BSN, BSW and local artist will lead us through a session loaded with journaling tips and inspiration drawn from nature. We hope you will leave with a sense of calm and direction for a future journaling practice. Supplies are provided. Healthy Living for your Brain and Body Tuesday, Feb. 28 1:30-3 p.m. For centuries, we’ve known that the health of the brain and the body are connected. But now, science can provide insights into how to optimize our physical and cognitive health as we age. Join us to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity, and social engagement, and use hands-on tools to help you incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.

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.