Issue 86

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

Gentle Yoga for Cultivating Resilience

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

Studies have shown that yoga can have a positive impact on your health and well-being and is especially beneficial to family caregivers. For example, caregivers who engage in a regular practice may benefit from reduced feelings of stress and anxiety, decreased symptoms of depression, and improved sleep. This accessible movement practice will help to release tension in the body and discover tools to calm your mind. Feel free to practice in a chair or on a yoga mat. All are welcome!

Register for "Gentle Yoga for Cultivating Resilience" here.

Lobes of the Brain

Tuesday, May 9, 10-11:30 am. (Zoom)

We will discuss the normal function of each lobe and what happens when dementia strikes.

Register for "Lobes of the Brain" here.

"Ouch" Protect Yourself from Caregiver Injuries

Tuesday, June 13, 10-11:30 a.m. (Zoom)

Learn about the most common types of injuries that occur in our community using local data and information from the CDC. Hear about injury prevention, common interventions to decrease the risk of these frequent injuries, and connect to resources that support caregivers preventing injuries to both themselves and the people they care about.

Register for "'Ouch' Protect Yourself From Caregiver Injuries" 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 have just learned that my friend has a life-limiting disease and I don’t think they will recover. What do I do?

Signed, A Concerned Caregiver

Dear Concerned Caregiver,

Thank you for reaching out to BCAAA. For most of us, when we get the news that someone is dying, our own discomfort can take over how to respond. We wonder if we should be somber or bright and cheerful with the intent to cheer our friend. Sometimes we spend so much time thinking about how to respond that we lose time that could be spent in more productive ways. Here are some general considerations:

First of all, begin with yourself.

How do you feel about sickness and death? What are your questions and anxieties? Attempt to put yourself in your friends’ position. Ask, for example, if you would hate being dependent on others? Would you resent having to give up your work? How have they handled pain and struggle in the past? Do you know what worked for them? It isn’t necessary for you to have all of these answers, just to be able to identify which concerns are yours, and which might or might not, belong to your friend.

Think about how much time you want to be with your friend at this time.

The amount of time and energy you spend with someone who was a casual work friend, for example, will be different from the time that you spend with your best friend since childhood. Unfortunately, many seriously ill or dying people are lonely and may feel abandoned due to friends being uncomfortable with the visit. The result of this discomfort is that some people have a more difficult time with grief once a friend dies because of the guilt over not connecting when they were alive.

Respect your friends wishes and their right to choose the way they will deal with dying.

They may make different choices than those you would make, but this is not your ”dying.” Decisions about whether to continue or discontinue treatments, to seek alternative medicine, or to stop treatment - they are not made lightly. Much thought, discussion, and pain has probably gone into your friend's decision, and it can be unkind to attempt to argue them out of these conclusions. Try offering to help them achieve their goals and to be present. This gesture goes far to letting your friend know they are not alone.

Offer practical help that is specific rather than general.

Many times, people say, “let me know if I can help,” and this can be unhelpful because then the onerous is on our dying friend to take on the mental load of assigning tasks. They might not be sure if they can trust your offer – or that you are just being polite, or they might not know how you would like to help. Notice where they need assistance, whether it be daily tasks like meal preparation or other household chores, or travel to appointments, or keeping on top of paperwork. From these observations you can propose a specific action, like “can I bring over food on Thursdays” rather than just making assumptions. One good place to start might be by setting up a communication platform that can help with sharing calendars and coordinating care. Two examples are:

Caring Bridge is a free, easy-to-use communications platform to share updates, set up meal trains, and more.

Caring Village  has an app that helps caregivers communicate, coordinate, and care. The website also has useful articles and checklists.

Determine when and how to visit.

The answer to how you interact with your friend is entirely dependent on who your friend is, who you are, and your capacity to manage strong emotions, the relationship you share, and where in the disease process your friend sits. Does your friend have the energy for a two-hour visit or only enough emotional space for ten minutes? Are they interested in learning about your work or family life, current events, or just keeping a quiet hour in your company? The best way to learn of this preference might be to ask.

Many seriously ill people remain fully engaged in their life, and others choose to shift their focus into their internal world. Either way, just by asking this question, you are starting the process of becoming a more supportive friend, and that, in the end, will make this journey easier for both of you.

Take good care, Your BCAAA Caregiving Team

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 www.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, April 13, 9:30 – 11 a.m. (Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #285001.04)

The cost is $8 for residents and $9 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. Facilitated by Renita Henson, RN BSN

Advancing the Science: Alzheimer’s and Dementia Research

Wednesday, April 19, 3 - 4:30 p.m. (Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #285097.00)

Join us for an overview of Alzheimer's disease science and to learn about the latest advances in research to find a prevention, treatment, and a cure. Presented by the Alzheimer's Association.

Hospice 101

Thursday, April 20, 1 – 2:30 p.m. (Call 303-651-8411 to register. Registration #285009.00)

Join us for an open discussion of hospice myths and facts that reinforce the importance of choice with retaining patients' primary care physician, understanding hospice eligibility and coverage by Medicare and Medicaid, and understanding the levels of hospice care. This program is open to older adults as well as family and friends that wish to learn the benefits of early admission to hospice and the role of their current healthcare providers. Presented by Trail Winds Hospice.

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. Case Managers 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 Case Manager, please call 303-441-4388. For a complete list of April 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.

April Featured Programs

Move With Ease: A Series to Introduce Feldenkrais

East Age Well Center, Tuesdays, April 4 - 25, 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.

Chair Yoga and Balance Series

West Age Well Center, Fridays, April 7-28, 10–10:45 a.m. Fees: R/NR $32/$40.

This class brings together postures and techniques of yoga with the support of a chair. All levels welcome.

Electric Vehicles in Boulder

Online, Monday, April 10, 2–3 p.m.

Join this discussion to learn about electric vehicles and what Boulder is doing to support them. Topics will include environmental impacts, various models and mileage ranges, charging stations, home charging, and financial rebates.

SPARK and Studio Arts Boulder Pottery Class

West Age Well Center, Tuesday, April 11, 1–2:30 p.m.

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

Using Google Search

West Age Well Center, Tuesday, April 18, 10–11:15 a.m.

Learn how to use the Google Search engine effectively to find reliable information. Must bring own device. Instructors: Tech Pals, a technology training organization based in Boulder.

Osteoarthritis and Joint Care

Online, Thursday, April 20, 10–11 a.m.

Join Dr. Andrew Allen, DC for a discussion on the most common types of arthritis and the medical treatments for each.

Active Minds: Climate Change

East Age Well Center, Monday, April 24, 3–4 p.m.

Join Active Minds to examine the predictions of climate change over the next century and the U.S. withdrawal from and reentry to the Paris climate accord.

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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.

Tole Painting for Fun – Workshops

Saturday, April 15, Noon-3 p.m.

The fee is $44 for residents and $55 for non-residents.

Tole painting is the folk art of decorative painting on tin or wooden utensils, objects and furniture. In these workshops you will learn how to highlight and shade, double load your brush and how to read the directions to patterns. Fee includes all material.

1-Fabric Wonder Kaleidoscope Quilt

Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

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

It's amazing what one piece of fabric can create. Join Jackie for a day of making kaleidoscopic blocks and a stunning quilt.

Movies Together

Friday, April 28, 1 p.m.

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

Come to the Erie Community Center and watch a movie in a small group setting. Movie selections will be posted in Amilia one month in advance of the showing. Drinks and snacks will be included in your registration fee. Registration deadline is on the Monday before the movie.

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 Drug Take Back Tuesday, April 11, 11 a.m.-noon Bring expired, unwanted or unused medications for proper disposal to the Lafayette Senior Center. Classical Performance Wednesday, April 12, 3:30-5 p.m. Enjoy the afternoon with a the beautiful Classical Music Performance from the students of Peak to Peak.  This free concert will be held at the Lafayette Senior Center.  Please call 303-665-9052 to reserve a seat. LaBlast® Chair Fitness Tuesdays, 9-9:45 a.m. LaBlast® Chair Fitness is a dance fitness program done 100% seated.  No partner needed (except for your chair!), LaBlast® is based on all the dances you see on "Dancing with the Stars"- Disco, Jive, Foxtrot, Waltz and more.  Learn the true skill of dance while blasting away calories to music of all genres and seriously having a blast!

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 their website at www.louisvillerecreation.com Check out more from Louisville Senior Services here.

SENIOR SERVICES OPEN HOUSE

Monday, April 10, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Register at the link above or at the front desk.

Louisville Senior Services offers a robust program for those 60 and older including trips, special events, drop-in programs, daily lunch, classes & workshops, and health & wellness programs, as well as local resource referrals. Please visit us during our open house. You will have an opportunity to meet staff and volunteers and take a tour of the senior lounge and multipurpose rooms as well as full building tours. Light snacks and lattes will be available. All are welcome-feel free to bring friends, neighbors and family! This event is free and for anyone interested in learning about Louisville Senior Services.

SENIOR PROM

Thursday, April 27, 6:30-7:45 p.m.

Register at the link above or at the front desk.

Join Louisville Senior Services for a Senior Prom! This evening will be filled with all things from years past including DJ entertainment featuring music from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and more. Refreshments and snacks, formal attire (if you’d like or just come casual!), dancing until your hearts content and professional photography!

See more Louisville Senior Services Program here.