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Aging Well in Boulder County
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 Presented by our SHIP Medicare Counselors
Our Medicare Basics Classes, live via Zoom, are designed for anyone wanting to understand Medicare enrollment, plans, benefits, and costs. Our program provides up-to-date, objective information and guidance when comparing and enrolling in Prescription Drug plans (Medicare Part D), Advantage Plans, and information about Supplemental insurance plans (Medigaps). We also provide guidance in the appeal process and information about resources for financial help with Medicare costs.
- Wednesday, March 12, 6-7:30 p.m.
- Thursday, March 20, 10-11:30 a.m.
- Wednesday, April 9, 6-7:30 p.m.
- Thursday, April 17, 1:30-3 p.m.
Questions? Contact us at medicare@bouldercounty.gov or 303-441-1546.
Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
Chronic health conditions can impact all areas of life making even simple activities seem unmanageable. Luckily, there are many things you can do to improve your health and outlook. Developed at Stanford University, this 6-week interactive program will focus on practical skills and more, including:
- Techniques to control symptoms and gain self-confidence
- Exercises for improving strength, mobility, and flexibility
- Tools for pain management
- Approaches to healthy eating
- Opportunities to share experiences and ask questions
When: Mondays, March 3-April 7, 2-4:30 p.m.
Where: Louisville Senior Center (900 Via Appia)
Questions? Contact us at HealthyAging@bouldercounty.gov or 303-413-7594.
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a practice of encouraging attention to the present moment. By allowing for awareness of what is most present now, participants will develop the capacity for increased focus, openness, and peace. Each session will include a guided meditation, with emphasis on bringing purposeful and kind attention to the experience, followed by time for reflections and questions about the practice. Beginners and experienced meditators welcome.
Online Option
When: Tuesday, 10-10:40 a.m.
- 10-10:05 a.m.—Arriving & Settling In
- 10:05-10:30 a.m.—Introduction and Guided Meditation
- 10:30-10:40 a.m.—Group Discussion
Where: Zoom. Please note these are drop-in sessions and you can register at any time to join one, multiple, or all sessions.
In-Person Option
When: First Wednesday of the Month, 1-2 p.m.
Where: West Age Well Center, 909 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder
Registration questions? Call 303-441-3148.
Kara Traikoff is the Wellness Program Specialist with Boulder County Area Agency on Aging and facilitator of our meditation courses. She has a background in higher education and community mindfulness, and she specializes in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and adapted mindfulness courses to support healing, growth, and self-compassion. Kara is passionate about encouraging others to experience and live the fullest life possible. She leads and creates wellness opportunities from the heart of her dedicated personal mindfulness practice.
Transition Coordination Services
Since 2015, our Community Living Team have assisted more than 300 people navigate the first steps of transitioning out of a skilled nursing facility and moving back to the community. We have contracted with the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to conduct Options Counseling meetings with residents in skilled nursing facilities, or nursing homes, to review Transition Coordination services and other community resources.
Transition Coordination is available to nursing home residents who are receiving Long-Term Care Medicaid benefits. In order to make informed choices, the Options Counseling meeting helps individuals understand next steps in the transition process, and the support and services they will receive. Dependent on individual care needs, Transition Coordination takes the responsibility in planning the use of Medicaid's Home and Community-Based Services to meet independent living goals.
Nursing home residents, staff, family members, community members, Long Term Care Ombudsman, or other professionals can request an Options Counseling meeting through this link.
For more information about Transition Coordination and other transition services benefits through Health First Colorado, please visit the HCPF Transition Services webpage.
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Nature Hikes for Older Adults
Please note that registration opens on different dates for the following hiking programs.
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Spring Awakening
When: Thursday, March 27. 10 a.m.-noon, registration open Feb. 20
Where: Carolyn Holmberg Preserve, Lafayette
What: Easy Hike.Spring forward and join us for a leisurely walk at Carolyn Holmberg Preserve where we will look for signs of spring’s return. Join volunteer naturalists in exploring what makes spring the great awakening that it is.
Foothills Geology
When: Thursday, April 17, 10 a.m.-noon, registration opens March 20
Where: Heil Valley Ranch, Boulder
What: Moderate Hike. Join volunteer naturalists for a 1.3-mile moderate hike along the Lichen Loop Trail to learn how this landscape has changed. Tales told in the rocks span 200 million years, from ancient sand dunes to tidal flats to riverbeds where dinosaurs roamed.
Wildflowers on the Trail
When: Thursday, May 15, 10 a.m.-noon, registration opens April 20
Where: Walker Ranch Meyers Gulch Trail, Boulder
What: Moderate Hike. Wildflowers are blooming and showing their bright colors. Purples, yellows, whites, and reds dot the hillsides and valleys at higher elevations. Bask in the sprouting natural beauty. Find these flowers along the trail as volunteer naturalists share stories and uses for some of our native plant species.
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Brooks Café (Louisville)
Join folks for a nutritious and tasty lunch at Brooks Café. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a warm meal, meet new people, and catch up with friends. Lunch is served promptly at noon, and meals are not guaranteed after 12:05 p.m. We look forward to welcoming you for a great meal and even better company!
Where: Louisville Recreation and Senior Center, 900 West Via Appia, Louisville
When: Monday through Friday, noon
Suggested Donation: $4.50/meal, Guest fee $15.25 for folks who are not 60+
Process: Call 303-335-4931 or email pmorgan@louisvilleco.gov. by 1:30 p.m. the day before.
Eat Well Café by Meals on Wheels of Boulder
The Eat Well Café is open for lunch featuring delicious food at great prices. All ages and appetites are welcome for the full meal deal at the café with a community atmosphere. Choose from two well balanced entrees created daily by Chef John and add a cup of soup or side salad, beverage, and choice of dessert for one great price. Other daily options are available. The Eat Well Café is made possible by a partnership with Meals on Wheels of Boulder and the City of Boulder. All proceeds benefit Meals on Wheels of Boulder.
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Where: Eat Well Café, 909 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder (West Age Well Center)
When: Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Price: $7.99/full meal deal
Process: All are welcome. No reservations are required except for parties, groups, and special holiday meals. Please email sara@mowboulder.org if you would like to have a group lunch/party.
Questions? Visit The Eat Well Café website. Call Sara at 303-441-3149 or email her at sara@mowboulder.org.
Home Delivered Option: For information about Meals on Wheels Boulder's home delivered meals programs, please visit mowboulder.org, call 720-780-3380, or email info@mowboulder.org.
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Red Stone Café (Lyons)
Come share a warm meal and make new friends at the Red Stone Café, located at Walt Self in Lyons. Whether you’re looking for a tasty meal or a chance to connect, we look forward to welcoming you!
Where: Walt Self Senior Housing, 335 Railroad Ave., Lyons
When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays – Lunch at noon
Suggested Donation: $5/meal, Guest fee $15.06 for folks who are not 60+
Process: Call 303-441-1415 by 1 p.m. the day before lunch to reserve your spot.
Coal Creek Meals on Wheels (Lafayette)
The Coal Creek Cafe, an onsite congregate meal program, is sponsored in part by the City of Lafayette. Monday through Friday, CCMOW provides onsite meals in a congregate cafe-style setting, to older adults (residents and daily drop-ins from the community) at Josephine Commons. This program provides high-quality, nutrient-dense meals for diners as well as essential daily social interaction between Josephine Commons residents, members from the community, and the CCMOW kitchen staff and volunteers.
Where: Coal Creek Meals on Wheels, 455 N. Burlington Ave., Lafayette
When: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Lunch served from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Suggested Donation: $3.50/meal
Process: All are welcome! No reservations are required.
Questions? Call 303-665-0566 or email info@coalcreekmow.org.
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Allenspark Lunch Bunch
Enjoy a great meal and make new friends with the Lunch Bunch group at Highlands Camp and Retreat Center in Allenspark. After your meal, stay and join in a friendly game of dominoes! We can’t wait to share a meal, a laugh, and some good times with you!
Where: Highlands Camp and Retreat Center, 1306 Business Hwy 7, Allenspark
When: Thursday, noon-1 p.m., stay after lunch to play dominoes!
Suggested Donation: $5/meal, Guest fee $20 for folks who are not 60+
Process: Call Cindy Rockett at 303-747-0556 by the Sunday before the meal to reserve your spot
Nederland Area Seniors
Enjoy a delicious meal with friends at the Nederland Community Center. It’s a perfect chance to relax, enjoy a tasty lunch, and connect with both old friends and new in the community! We can’t wait to share a meal and good company with you!
Where: Nederland Community Center, 750 Highway 72, Nederland
When: Wednesdays at noon
Suggested Donation: $5/meal, Guest fee $15.06 for folks who are not 60+
Process: Please RSVP the Monday before lunch by 5 p.m. by email at info@mountainpeaklife.org or call 303-258-0799.
Home Delivered Option: If you or someone you know is 60+, homebound for any reason, and interested in receiving weekly meal deliveries, please email info@mountainpeaklife.org or call the Nederland Area Seniors office line 303-258-0799 for more information. Eligibility criteria applies.
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  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.
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.
Dealing with Dementia
Family and informal caregivers are the backbone of community-based services. To support local caregivers of people with dementia, we are offering this workshop, developed by the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving. The workshop provides effective strategies for dealing with dementia behaviors, providing tips and strategies for caregivers on best practices for caring for their loved ones and themselves. Caregivers who attend will receive a copy of Dealing with Dementia: A Caregiver’s Guide handbook which provides information and solutions to problems caregivers face every day.
When: Friday, April 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Town of Superior, Community Center (1500 Coalition Rd., Superior)
Register here by Thursday, April 3.
Registration link above will take folks directly to the class information. If you do not have an account, you will be prompted to create one once at this site. You do not need to be a Superior resident in order to register. If you need further information regarding account creation or registration, you can call the front desk for assistance at 303-554-9005.
For additional information, call Rebekah Van Sweden at 303-441-3945, or send an email to infoCaregiver@bouldercounty.gov.
Ask a Caregiving Expert
Dear Reader,
We are providing one caregiver's story for this edition of Caregiving Corner.
Signed, Stuart Feinhor
The easiest thing I have ever done was to love my Aunt Marilyn. The best thing I ever did was to take care of her. The hardest thing was to say goodbye, a decade ago. Marilyn was that rare gift of a person who is so easy to love. She just made it so easy. You met her once and you were hooked: on her cheerfulness, her love of life, her gratitude, her politeness, her humor, her consideration of others, her generosity. And it didn’t take much for her to love you back: a kind word, a friendly smile, treating her with respect, and caring for her with affection. She had a way of making a lasting and positive impact on people, and that is a source of comfort to me. She made the world a better place by being who she was while she was here, and I know that her legacy will live on through the many people she touched. Marilyn was unforgettable. And there is a tremendous hole in my life where she used to be with me. Marilyn didn’t always have an easy time of it, and she certainly didn’t always make it easy to take care of her. She was born mentally “retarded” and had a list of other mental and physical conditions, all of which conspired to bring her life to a close at the young age of 66. But we were able to celebrate the fact that she had outlived—“over-lived,” she would say—both of her parents and her sister, my mother, and that was quite an achievement.
While Marilyn was a constant presence and an integral part of my entire life, we were together as a unit for the past five years. She was my aunt, my friend, my companion, my champion, my “Moomie.” I assumed full responsibility for her upon my mother’s death five years prior, but the last three and a half years were the most challenging. She developed a condition in her spine that rendered her unable to walk, to feed herself, even to sit up. So, she underwent surgery in San Francisco and was able to be rehabilitated to the point where she could do most things by herself. And the things she still could not do for herself, she asked for help with—something many find almost unbearable. But she did it, for as long as she could. We did it together. It was not easy, and there were times I was not sure I would be able to manage it. But her determination and perseverance and will were also the factors that spurred me on to do all that I could to take care of her.
But I did not do it completely on my own, even if it often felt that way. Among those I thank are the nurses and doctors and social workers and others whose skill and compassion and patience helped Marilyn live a happy and comfortable life. And all the aides—they are the heroes I pay tribute to for contributing as much as, if not more than, anybody else in caring for my aunt. And I definitely could not have survived without the loving support and empathic understanding of the people in my caregivers’ support group. They became the family I needed to sustain me over that last year and a half. All of these wonderful people tolerated my ranting, supported my concerns, and acknowledged my efforts to provide Marilyn with the best care possible. The easiest thing I have ever done was to love my Aunt Marilyn. The best thing I ever did was to take care of her. And the hardest thing was to say goodbye.
Originally from Dayton, Ohio, Stuart Feinhor has been with Jewish Family Service for nearly five years. Before that, he worked for 10 years as a congressional staffer for then-Congressman, now Governor, Jared Polis. He moved to Boulder as a caregiver with his maternal aunt, in 2001; he says it was the best and hardest thing he’s ever done.
Please contact your local Resource Specialist to get the most recent Caregiver Support Group list or find it at www.boco.org/caregiving.
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INFORMATION FROM OUR PARTNERS |
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City of Longmont Senior Services
The Longmont Senior Center is open Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.-noon. Their resource specialists and counselors are now offering home visits and in-person appointments.
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Find class information in the GO! Catalog.
Questions? Call 303-651-8411 or email senior@longmontcolorado.gov.
Sign up for weekly email updates by visiting Longmont Senior Services.
Caregiver Services in Longmont
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. at Longmont Senior Center
Questions? Call Kayleigh Schernbeck at 303-774-4497.
Empower Caregivers Series: Communicating Effectively
Please register in advance at 303-651-8411. Registration #188911-02
Thursday, March 6, 9-11 a.m.
Join us for Communicating Effectively & Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors, an education program by the Alzheimer’s Association. Discover new ways to communicate effectively at any stage of the disease, tips to improve communication, steps to recognize and manage dementia-related behaviors and their triggers, and how to recognize when additional help is needed. This program is part of The Empowered Caregiver education series that teaches caregivers how to navigate the responsibilities of caring for someone living with dementia. As part of the program, you will receive activities to apply person-centered care approaches to your own caregiving situation.
Responding to Dementia- Related Behaviors & Exploring Care and Support Services
Please register in advance at 303-651-8411. Registration #188911-03
Thursday, March 13, 9-11 a.m.
Join us for these educational programs by the Alzheimer’s Association, part of The Empowered Caregiver series. "Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors" covers dementia’s impact on behavior, triggers, and management strategies, while "Exploring Care and Support Services" focuses on planning for care changes and understanding different care settings. Both programs provide valuable insights and activities to help you apply person-centered care approaches in your caregiving journey.
Property Tax Remedies for Seniors
Please register in advance at 303-651-8411. Registration #185901-00
Monday, March 31, 10-11 a.m.
Overview of the Senior Homestead Exemption program and the Senior Deferral program. Presented by Boulder County Assessor’s Office and Boulder County Treasurer’s Office staff Cindy Braddock and Erin Gray.
Ethical Wills and Legacy Letters
Please register in advance at 303-651-8411. Registration #185909-00
Wednesday, April 2, 1 p.m.
This workshop examines the ancient tradition of passing on personal values, beliefs, blessings, and advice to family, friends, and future generations. Leaving your loved ones with your Ethical Will can mean much more than any material possession you might bequeath to them. By combining ancient religious values with modern educational techniques, you will be guided to greater self-examination and deeper spiritual meaning. You will learn the tools and the steps needed to document and pass on your wisdom, experiences, life lessons, and much more to those you love and care about. Whether we are rich or poor, the most valuable gift we can give to our children, grandchildren, and those yet to come are the treasures of our memories, stories, values, insights, and special wisdom.
City of Boulder Older Adult Services
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 March 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.
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ThinkFirst to Prevent Falls
West Age Well Center, Monday, March 3, 1-3 p.m.
ThinkFirst to Prevent Falls is a class facilitated by injury prevention professionals from Intermountain Health, Boulder Fire-Rescue, and Boulder Community Health to review best practice strategies to prevent falls. Following the class, a physical therapist will also be available to provide individualized balance screenings (spaces limited).
Plant Forward Boulder: Protecting Your Bones
East Age Well Center, Thursday, March 13, 10-11 a.m.
Plant Forward Boulder is part of Building Healthy Communities (BHC) of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). Join this month for a discussion on protecting your bones. BHCs support healthy, plant-based lifestyles by nurturing local connections, facilitating ongoing social support, and providing educational programming.
NEW! Qi Gong FREE Introduction
West Age Well Center, Wednesday, March 26, 11:15 a.m.-noon
This class will focus on simple, yet effective Qi Gong exercises to re-establish strong circulation and retrain the nervous system while improving range of movement, balance, and reinvigorating major body systems, creating a sense of well-being.
Informational Session – Common Scams and Frauds
Online, Wednesday, March 26, 2-3 p.m.
In this educational program, participants will learn about scams and frauds that often target older adults, whether by phone, email, popup, mail, or at the door.
Conversations About Death - Write Your Own Obituary
West Age Well Center, Thursday, March 27, 1-3 p.m.
Join end-of-life educators Diane Hullet and Margaret Kane for a workshop on writing an obituary. Participants will discuss the writing process, create an outline, and leave with ideas and resources for moving forward.
Town of Erie Parks & Recreation - Active Adults
Bingo
Tuesday, March 11, 1-2 p.m.
Tuesday, April 8, 1-2 p.m.
Join the fun in this friendly game of BINGO and an afternoon of connecting with friends. Registration is not required. Prizes sponsored by The Bridge at Longmont.
The Magic of Watercolor Paints
Wednesday, March 12-26, noon-2:30 p.m. (Alpaca)
Wednesday, April 16-23, noon-2:30 p.m. (Young Cow)
The fee is $140 for residents and $175 for non-residents
Whether you’re new to painting or already love the vibrant magic of watercolor, this class has something for everyone. Join Kristi Arzola as she guides you step-by-step, helping you feel confident to explore, create, and most importantly—have a great time. You’ll learn tips, tricks, and techniques to bring your ideas to life in a laid-back, supportive setting.
Dementia Conversations: Driving, Doctor Visits, Legal & Financial Planning
Monday, March 31, 1-2 p.m.
When someone shows signs of dementia, it’s time to talk. This program provides tips for breaking the ice with your family so you can address some of the most common issues that are difficult to discuss: going to the doctor for a diagnosis or medical treatment, deciding when to stop driving, and making legal and financial plans for future care.
Lafayette Senior Center
Travel Training: Google Maps Workshop
Thursday, March 6, 1-3 p.m.
Join Mobility for All to learn how to use Google Maps and explore public transit options. Learn to find bus routes, schedules, and plan trips easily. Whether new to transit or boosting your skills, this workshop will help you navigate with confidence.
CSU Nutrition Class
Friday, March 7, 3-4 p.m.
Join Boulder County CSU Extension Health Specialist Emma Dhimitri to learn a new healthy recipe using seasonal produce. Participants will help prepare and taste the recipe,and will receive recipe ingredients. This program will be taught in English and Spanish.
Únase a la especialista de salud de Boulder County CSU Extension, Emma Dhimitri para aprender una receta nueva y saludable con verduras de temporada. Los participantes ayudarán a preparar y probar la receta y recibirá los ingredientes para la receta. Este programa se imparte en inglés y español.
St. Patrick's Day Luncheon
Friday, March 14, noon-2 p.m.
Join Lafayette Senior Services for a unique St. Patrick's Day special and luncheon. Celebrate the Luck of the Irish in 2025 by wearing green and enjoy the festivities with wonderful friends and a great meal.
Drug Take Back
Wednesday, March 19, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Please bring any expired, unwanted, or unused prescription and nonprescription medications for proper disposal to the Senior Center
Shoulder and Tennis Elbow Workshop
Tuesday, March 25, 2-3 p.m.
Got shoulder pain or tennis elbow rom pickleball? Join Alpine Fit’s interactive workshop to identify root causes, assess injury risk, and learn exercises for prevention and treatment.
Louisville Senior Services
Louisville Senior Services at the Recreation & Senior Center offers a variety of trips, classes, and activities, and Brooks Café lunch. Senior Resources help in the areas of transportation, housing, legal assistance, financial guidance, and medical equipment loans. For more information, contact Katie Beasley at 303-335-4914 or visit the website at www.louisvillerecreation.com.
Louisville Senior Services are located at 900 W Via Appia Way in Louisville.
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Boulder County Area Agency on Aging
Our mission is to deliver, fund, and advocate for services that promote well-being, independence, and dignity for older adults, people living with disabilities, caregivers, and veterans in Boulder County. We also assist Medicare beneficiaries and residents of any age who live in a long-term care facility. In addition, we provide information, referral, and options counseling to anyone 18 or older with a disability as well as to older adults.
Connect with us!
Call us at 303-441-1617 or email us at AgingResources@bouldercounty.gov.
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