Jan. 2024 Edition - Aging Well Newsletter

Boulder County Colorado sent this bulletin at 01/04/2024 08:43 AM MST

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Issue 92

Become a Volunteer Long-Term Care Ombudsman

There are over 2,000 people living in assisted livings and nursing homes in Boulder County. Each one can benefit from an advocate, a person willing to volunteer their time to make sure residents are getting the care they need. You can make a difference.

We invite adults (21+) to apply to become a volunteer ombudsperson. Applicants must pass a criminal background check and make at least a 12 month commitment.

Learn more about Boulder County's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.

For more information, contact infoLTCO@bouldercounty.gov or submit your volunteer application.

Increase in Fraudsters Usage of Artificial Intelligence in Scams

On Nov. 16, 2023, Philadelphia Attorney Gary Schildhorn told his story of an attempted phone scam to the U.S. Senate Special Aging Committee where the voice of his son was so convincing that the victim almost paid the fraudster using cryptocurrency. In Mr. Schildhorn’s words, “on my way to work, my phone rang. It was my son. He was crying. He said, ‘Dad, I was in an accident. I hit another car being driven by a pregnant woman. My nose is broken. They arrested me. I’m in jail. They assigned a public defender to me. His name is Barry Goldstein. You need to call him. You have to get me out of here. Help me!’”

In Mr. Schildhorn’s testimony, he described a well-known grandparent scam, but this time, his son’s voice was being manipulated by artificial intelligence (AI) to describe a fabricated emergency created by fraudsters. Fortunately, Mr. Schildhorn discovered his son was safe and unharmed. However, he shares that this same type of scam is happening to citizens on a daily basis. Mr. Schildhorn stated, “the cryptocurrency and AI have provided a riskless avenue for fraudsters to take advantage of all of us. They have no risk of exposure. I know that there is economic benefit to cryptocurrency, but I also know that it causes substantial harm to society and financial harm. To me, you know it’s fundamental if we’re harmed by somebody, there is a remedy through the legal system or through law enforcement. In this case, there is no remedy, and that fundamental basis is broken, and I hope this committee can do something about that.”

If you get a call from a friend or family member with an emergency, take the following steps:

Confirm that the family member or friend is the real person. Call the person who contacted you to verify the story. Use a phone number that you know is theirs. If you can’t get in touch with them, attempt to reach them by calling another family or friend.
Ask the family or friend a question that only they would know and that is not publicly known.
If a caller asks you to wire funds, take money out of your bank and send it through cryptocurrency. O, if the caller asks you to purchase gift cards, this could be a sign of a scam.

Take the following steps to help protect yourself and your loved ones and reduce the likelihood of having your voice or image used in scams:

Create a code word can help you confirm that you are communicating with your loved one. Now that voice profiles can be generated, this safeguard is becoming increasingly important. Remember not to share this code word.
Review your privacy settings on all social media accounts. Safeguard any images, videos or voice recordings which could be used in AI related scams.
Read the privacy settings of websites where you create accounts. Most times, we do not read privacy policies of the companies we interact with, but when you put your information into their system, it may be used for other purposes or resold to third party companies.
Before responding to a text message, email, phone call, or knock on the door. Be sure to complete sufficient research and background checking to ensure the legitimacy of the individual or group.

If you spot a scam, contact the Federal Trade Commission by calling 1-877-382-4357 or by visiting https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/. For questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to the Community Protection Division at 303-441-3700.

Diabetes Prevention Program Information Session

Did you know that one in three Coloradans has prediabetes? Are you one of them?

Left untreated, prediabetes can raise your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The good news is that you CAN PREVENT these serious complications. Our Diabetes Prevention Program provides:

A proven behavior change program developed by the Centers for Disease Control,
A trained lifestyle coach to provide support and guidance to the group,
Skill building to lose weight, become more physically active and manage stress, and
A year-long program with weekly meetings for six months and twice a month for the second six months

What: Diabetes Prevention Program Information Session

When: Feb 15, 11 a.m.

Where: Online via Zoom

Register here.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Questions? Contact us at infoHealthyAging@bouldercounty.gov.

Fresh Conversations

Fresh Conversations is an evidence-based nutrition education program focused on timely nutrition topics presented monthly. Fresh Conversations is led by Patti Murphy, RDN and sessions are held on Zoom.

Cooking for One or Two

Wednesday, Jan. 10, 1-2 p.m.

Paint Your Plate with Color

Wednesday, Feb. 7, 1-2 p.m.

Fuel Your Independent with Protein

Wednesday, March 13, 1-2 p.m.

Register for these classes here.

Questions? Please email infohealthyaging@bouldercounty.gov.

Diabetes Education Group

The group provides information, answers to questions, and support from new friends. Each session has a topic. This group is for people 60+ and their caregivers. There is no charge, but donations are appreciated.

Classes are held online from 11 a.m. to noon. Please contact 303-678-6118 to register and ask questions.

Start Your New Year with Healthy Eating Practices - Monday, Jan. 22
Winter Immune Boosting Tips - Monday, Feb. 26
Kidney Health and Diabetes - Monday, March 18
Dawn Phenomenon and Somogyi Effect - Monday, April 15
Grocery Shopping and Label Reading for Diabetes - Monday, May 20
Understanding and Managing Hypo- and Hyperglycemia - Monday, June 17
Glycemic Index and Carbohydrate Counting - Monday, July 15
Alcohol, Artificial Sweeteners, and Diabetes - Monday, Aug. 19
Gastroparesis and Celiac Disease with Diabetes - Monday, Sept. 16
Diabetes and Exercise - Monday, Oct. 21
Managing Diabetes During the Holidays - Monday, Nov. 18
No class in Dec. '24.

Join a Medicare Basics Class

Our lively and entertaining Medicare Basics classes are designed to provide the necessary information to older adults, and those caring for 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. Once registered, participants will receive instruction on how to join the class. This online course uses Zoom.

Wednesday, Jan. 10, 6-7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 18, 10-11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 7, 6-7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 22, 10-11:30 a.m.

To learn more about Medicare Basics, Medicare Counseling, and to register for upcoming classes, please visit:

boco.org/Medicare

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

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

Compassionate Connections Yoga & Caregiver Support

offered by Easter Seals and Guided by Humanity

Tuesday Jan. 9, 10-11:30 a.m.

Hosted online. Register here.

“We Love our Caregivers,” Valentine’s Day

Wednesday Feb. 14, 2024, noon-1:30 p.m.

This online event offers an opportunity to review challenges and opportunities for caregivers, especially for those who feel disconnected or overwhelmed. Our Caregiver Resource Specialists will direct a conversation around the challenges of caregiving with participants.

To register or for questions, email us at infoCaregiver@bouldercounty.org or call us directly at 303-441-3945.

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 just returned from a long holiday weekend with my sister and am worried that she is developing dementia. When I would talk to her on the phone, she seemed just fine, but now I am not sure. Our father had Alzheimer’s. What do I need look for?

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.

It isn’t surprising that the time when family members are most likely to recognize the first signs of developing Alzheimer’s disease or dementia in a loved one comes during the holiday season. In many cases, family members and friends may not have seen one another for months or longer. When they do gather, the signs of memory loss or behavioral change may become obvious.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s sees its highest volume of calls at the end of the year. Changes in memory or behavior that seem gradual to those in daily contact can appear as abrupt declines in cognition to out-of-town visitors.

The Alzheimer’s Association has developed a helpful checklist of 10 Signs to aid in the early detection of Alzheimer’s. Why is early detection important? Without it, the ones we love may wait too long to make necessary lifestyle changes that are important to ensure that all medical care options are explored, ranging from medications to research. Other considerations include personal safety as well as quality of care, and to make necessary financial and estate planning adjustments.

Here is a brief overview of the 10 Signs:

Memory loss that disrupts daily life. A typical age-related memory change is occasionally forgetting names or appointments but remembering them later. A common sign of Alzheimer’s disease, especially in the early stages, is forgetting recently learned information. The increasing need to rely on memory aids (reminder notes, electronic devices) or family members for things that one previously handled on their own is a sign.
Challenges in planning or solving problems. Making occasional errors, such as checkbook balancing, is not uncommon. If a person experiences changes in the ability to follow a plan or work with numbers, or has difficulty concentrating and completing a task, that may be a concern.
Difficulty completing familiar tasks. People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to complete daily tasks. They may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget, or remembering the rules of a familiar game.
Confusion with time or place. Losing track of dates, seasons and the passage of time is another indication. Sometimes people with Alzheimer’s can forget where they are or how they got there.
Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. For some individuals, vision problems can be a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast, which may cause problems with driving.
New problems with words in speaking or writing. People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word or call things by the wrong name (such as calling a “watch” a “hand clock”).
Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. Putting things in unusual places and being unable to find them. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing – with more frequency over time.
Decreased or poor judgment. People with Alzheimer’s may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may also pay less attention to grooming and personal cleanliness.
Withdrawal from work or social activities. Some individuals may avoid being social because of changes they’re experiencing, removing themselves from work projects, hobbies and sports.
Changes in mood and personality. Increased incidences of confusion, suspicion, depression, fear or anxiety can be a sign. Individuals can become more easily upset at home, work, with friends or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.

If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, please contact the Alzheimer’s Association free 24/7 bilingual Helpline, staffed around the clock by trained professionals, at 800-272-3900 or go to www.alz.org.

Take good care,

Your BCAAA Caregiving Team and the Alzheimer's Association

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.

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 at www.longmontcolorado.gov/GO.

Email: senior@longmontcolorado.gov

Phone: 303-651-8411

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.

Are you a caregiver for an aging family member or friend? Are you looking to learn more, find new strategies and resources, or seeking support? The Longmont Senior Center is here for you. They offer a variety of FREE classes and support groups. In Jan. they have:

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia – Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2-3:30 p.m.
Living with Alzheimer’s: For People with Early-Stage Alzheimer’s and Care Partners - Tuesdays, Jan. 16 and 23, 9:30–11 a.m.
New Ways to Improve Your Caregiving Moves – Thursday, Jan. 18, 10:30 am-noon
Living with Alzheimer’s: For Late-Stage Caregivers – Wednesday, Feb. 7 and 14, 2–3:30 p.m.

For more information on these programs, our monthly support groups, and more of our programs, please look through their catalog or call the Senior Center front desk at 303-651-8411.

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 Jan. 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.

Featured January Programs

Chair Yoga and Balance Series

These classes bring together postures and techniques of yoga with the support of a chair. All levels welcome.

Chair Yoga. West Age Well Center, Fridays, Jan. 5-26, 10–10:45 a.m. Fees: R/NR $32/$40
Chair Yoga. West Age Well Center, Mondays, Jan. 8 – 29, 10–10:45 a.m. Fees: R/NR $24/$30

Feldenkrais – Move with Ease

Increase ease and range of motion, improve flexibility and coordination, and rediscover an innate capacity for graceful and efficient movement.

Feldenkrais: Move with Ease – Chair-Based Series. West Age Well Center, Mondays, January 8 – February 26 (6 classes, NO class 1/15 and 2/19) 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. Fees: R/NR $60/$75.
Feldenkrais: Move with Ease – Mat-Based Series. East Age Well Center, Tuesdays, January 9 –February 13 (6 classes) 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. Fees: R/NR $60/$75

Studio Arts Boulder Pottery Classes. Learn about the fundamentals of pottery to make functional and whimsical pieces.

Pottery EAST. East Age Well Center, Monday, Jan. 8, 1–2:30 p.m., Fees: R/NR $10/$13
Pottery WEST. West Age Well Center, Wednesday, Jan. 17, 1:30–3 p.m., Fees: R/NR $10/$13

Popular Line Dances

West Age Well Center, Tuesdays, Jan. 9–30, 1–2 p.m. Fees: R/NR $32/$40.

Line dancing is a fun, invigorating activity and utilizes music from around the world.

FREE Introduction to Folk Dance

East Age Well Center, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 1:15–2:15 p.m.

Folk dancing provides many health benefits. Beginners welcome. No partner required.

Folk Dance Series

East Age Well Center, Wednesdays, Jan. 17–March 6, 1:15 – 2:15 p.m. Fees: R/NR $64/$80.

Enjoy the benefits of dancing with folk dance lessons.

Introduction to Essential Oils and Aromatherapy

East Age Well Center, Friday, Jan. 10, 10–11 a.m.

Learn about the benefits of essential oil use at home.

Eating for One or Two

East Age Well Center, Friday, Jan 26, 10–11:30 a.m.

This program reviews simple principles on preparing quick and easy whole foods, balanced in nutrition and full in flavor, while also limiting food waste. 

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

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.–4 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.

Beginner Partners Country Two Step and Social Dance Classes

Tuesdays, Jan. 9-30, 1-2 p.m.

The fee is $40 for residents and $50 for non-residents. Price is per person.

Learn popular Country Western and Social Dances in fun group classes! Recommended for beginners interested in learning the basics of social couples dancing. Couples dance moves your body, improves your brain and lifts your spirit. Must be partnered up when you register.

Continuing Partners Dance Classes

Tuesdays, Jan. 9-30, 2-3 p.m.

The fee is $40 for residents and $50 for non-residents. Price is per person.

Dance popular ballroom, Latin and swing dances in fun group classes! Recommended for partners who have some experience and comfort level with the basics. Partners dance moves your body, improves your brain and lifts your spirit. Must be partnered up when you register.

Beginner Partners Dance Classes

Tuesdays, Jan. 9-30, 3-4 p.m.

The fee is $40 for residents and $50 for non-residents. Price is per person.

Learn popular ballroom, Latin and swing dances in fun group classes! Recommended for beginners interested in learning the basics of couples dancing. Couples dance moves your body, improves your brain and lifts your spirit. Must be partnered up when you register.

An Overview of 3 FAQs on Health

Wednesday, Jan. 17. 2-3 p.m.

Ever wondered how to get rid of heartburn? Or, what should my cholesterol levels be and do I really need to be on a statin? Lastly, why can’t I fall asleep and stay asleep all night? Join Dr. Samantha Boldt, DC, CFMP for the latest research on these topics.

Beginning Drawing

Friday, Jan. 19, noon-3 p.m.

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

There are many benefits to learning how to draw. Drawing actively opens your brain to creative thinking, imagination, problem solving and it stimulates the brain. It can also be a form of meditation. Each month we apply drawing techniques to different subjects. This class is designed to set you up for success!

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.

Ukulele Lessons- Beginner

Mondays, Jan. 8-29, 11 a.m.-noon

Unlock your ukulele potential and experience the joy of playing music in our beginner's class! Get ready for a fun-filled journey where you'll learn strumming techniques, rhythms, reading tabs, improvisation, and even dip your toes into songwriting. Sing along to familiar tunes and master basic chords with the guidance of instructor Felicity Muench. Please bring a ukulele to class.

Thinkfirst Fall Prevention Class

Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2-3:30 p.m.

Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury deaths for people over age 65, and a leading reason for emergency room visits in the United States each year. Falls can cause brain injuries, hip fractures, and other devastating consequences. Many falls could be avoided through simple preventative measures. ThinkFirst To Prevent Falls is now available as a presentation on the basics of fall prevention for older adults.

Protecting Yourself from Scams & Frauds

Wednesday, Jan. 24, 11 a.m.-noon

We’ve all experienced that unfamiliar phone number that we answer, only to have an automated voice tell us about our “extended car warranty”, but did you know that this is just one of hundreds of scams that target consumers to try to get access to your money and personal information. Join the us as we explore the world of frauds and scams and hear about the most common scams and how to prevent becoming a victim.

Louisville Senior Services

Louisville Senior Services at the Recreation & Senior Center currently offers a variety of drop-in programs, classes and activities, trips, as well as Brooks Café lunch. Contact Katie Beasley, by calling 303-335-4914 or email KatieB@LouisvilleCO.gov.

Need resources? Find Senior Resources help with transportation, housing, legal assistance, and financial guidance. Medical equipment loans also available. Contact Katie Tofte, Community Resource Coordinator, at KTofte@LouisvilleCO.gov or by calling 303-335-4919.

Intermediate Spanish Conversation

Wednesdays, Jan. 10-Feb. 7, 1-1:30 p.m. The fee is $75.

In this class, we will discuss current events, motivational stories, nature, literature, and/or philosophy. We will also discuss other topics of interest that arise during the class. Each session will be different, and students are invited to take this class multiple times.

Tap Dancing

Wednesday, Jan. 10-Feb. 28, 3-4 p.m. The fee is $140.

This class is specifically designed for older adults. The focus is on fun, building community & improving balance, memory & coordination. No experience necessary, tap shoes optional. *Drop-in is available for $15. Please give your paid receipt to instructor. This class will meet in the Grays Studio.

Game Afternoon

Thursday, Jan. 16, 3-5 p.m. The fee is $5 for residents and $6 for non-residents.

Join us for an afternoon of board games! Have fun and meet new people while challenging your brain with a new game each month. Board game choices will be made while here and will sure to be a good time! Refreshments provided and food sponsored by Snarf's of Louisville. Led by David Younghans. our volunteer game host.