|
 |
|
Aging Well in Boulder County
|
|
|
Recruitment for Our Aging Advisory Council is Open
The Aging Advisory Council (AAC) serves in advisory capacity to the Boulder County Area Agency on Aging. The AAC helps in the administration and planning of Older Americans Act programs by gathering information and ideas that help to coordinate the delivery of services and by responding effectively to the strengths and needs of older adults throughout Boulder County.
The AAC meets on the first Friday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon. There are no meetings during the months of July and December. Meeting locations vary monthly. Learn more about the AAC here.
Follow this link to apply for a vacancy. Positions are open for recruitment through Monday, July 7, 2025. Questions? Please contact Lindsay Neville at lneville@bouldercounty.gov or at 303-906-7509.
Via Mobility Services is offering ZERO FARE every weekend this summer. Book your free weekend rides from June through August 2025. No gas, no fare, no hassle. Call 303-447-9636 to register, book, and learn more.
To use Via Mobility Services, riders must live in Via's service area and require accessible transportation. Weekend service does not include Estes Park or I-70 corridor areas.
 Medicare Basics Classes
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, July 9, 6-7:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 17, 10-11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 13, 6-7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 21, 1:30-3 p.m.
 Check out the new Senior Medicare Patrol Medicare Tracker App! Beneficiaries can download the app in Google Play or the Apple App Store now! This new app can help you track medical services you've received and you can use it to review your Medicare Summary Notices and Explanation of Benefits in the prevention of fraud. Learn more at smpresource.org/app/.
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: Tuesdays, 10-10:45 a.m.
- 10-10:05 a.m.—Arriving & Settling In
- 10:05-10:35 a.m.—Introduction and Guided Meditation
- 10:35-10:45 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 at West Age Well Center
When: Wednesday, July 2 and Aug. 6, 1-2 p.m.
Where: West Age Well Center, 909 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder
Registration questions? Call 303-441-3148.
In-Person at Boulder Community Health
When: Thursday, July 17, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Where: Della Cava Family Medical Pavilion, 4801 Riverbend Rd, Boulder
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.
Diabetes Support and Education Group
This group is for Boulder County older adults (60+) with a diabetes diagnosis or those caring for someone with a diabetes diagnosis. The group is facilitated by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, who is also a Certified Diabetes Educator. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. Classes run from 11 a.m. to noon.
- July 21 – Alcohol and Artificial Sweeteners and Diabetes
- Aug. 18 – Carbohydrate Counting and Glycemic Index
- Sept. 15 – Kidney Health and Diabetes
- Oct. 20 – Gastroparesis and Celiac Disease in Diabetes Patients
- Nov. 17 – Healthy Eating During the Holidays
Register by contacting Boulder Nutrition and Exercise at 303-440-1015 or info@bouldernutritionexercise.com.
Fresh Conversations
Fresh Conversations is a nutrition education program for older adults that promotes healthy food and lifestyle to support aging well. Monthly meetings are interactive, including group discussion and goal setting. Participants receive a newsletter for each class based on recent topics and evidence-based nutrition research. Emphasis is placed on eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, less sodium, and less added sugar. There are now two options available to attend Fresh Conversations!
When: Tuesday, July 8, 3-4 p.m.
Topic: Fresh Herbs
Where: Harvest of Hope Food Pantry (4830 Pearl St, Boulder)
Registration is not required, drop-ins are welcome.
If you have questions or would like more information, please contact us at HealthyAging@bouldercounty.gov or 303-413-7594.
|
|
Longmont Meals on Wheels
Older adults (55+) are welcome to join Longmont Meals on Wheels at the Longmont Senior Center. These nutrient-dense, community-style meals are planned and prepared in house. Longmont Meals on Wheels guests enjoy these meals and time with each other, like the variety offered, find the meals to be a great value and report that nutritious community meals help them remain living independently. A soup and salad bar is also offered Wednesday-Friday.
Where: Parkview Café at the Longmont Senior Center, 910 Longs Peak Ave.
When: Monday through Friday, Lunch served at 11:30 a.m.
Price: $2 for those 55+, $6 for those under 55
Process: No reservations required.
Questions? Contact Longmont MOW at 303-772-0540 or office@lmow.org.
Home-Delivered Option: Longmont Meals on Wheels delivers hot, nutritious, ready-to-eat meals Monday through Friday to older adults and people with disabilities in Longmont and Niwot and can provide wellness checks during delivery. This service is for people who struggle to stand long enough to cook a meal for themselves, can’t leave their house regularly, find the diet their doctor recommends to be confusing, or are coming home from a recent hospital stay or outpatient procedure. All meals are low in sodium and carbohydrates, and the agency can accommodate some special-diet needs too. These meals are offered on a sliding scale up to $6. Please call 303-772-0540 or go to longmontmeals.org to get started.
|
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.
|
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.
|
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. on Monday the week of 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.
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.
|
|
|
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.
Dealing with Dementia
When: Tuesday, Aug. 19, 1-5 p.m.
Where: 3482 Broadway, Boulder
What: 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.
Register: Registration is required by Monday, Aug. 11 by emailing infoCaregiver@bouldercounty.gov or call 303-441-3945. Please provide your name, contact information, and information about your role as an informal or family caregiver. This is no charge for this program. Light snacks will be provided. Prior to the workshop all registered caregivers will receive a telephone call for trainer to obtain some additional demographic and situation information.
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’m a part-time caregiver for my parent. Between running errands, doing laundry, and helping mom with showers, I’m completely exhausted and have had to cut back on my work hours. Is there any way I can get paid for the care I’m already providing?
Signed, A Devoted Daughter
--
Dear Devoted Daughter,
First, thank you for your incredible commitment. Caregiving is a powerful expression of love, but it often comes with emotional, physical, and financial strain. Thankfully, Colorado offers options that allow family members to be paid for providing care — and new programs are expanding access. We asked our community partner, PASCO to answer this question.
New: Community First Choice (CFC) Program
The Community First Choice (CFC) program, launching in Colorado July 1, 2025, makes it easier for Medicaid members who qualify for institutional-level care to receive In-Home Support Services (IHSS) — and to hire family members as paid caregivers.
Colorado’s Community First Choice (CFC) Program is a suite of long-term services and supports for CO residents who are elderly or disabled and require care equivalent to that which is provided in a nursing home. Intended to delay and prevent the need for “institutionalization”, assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) is provided. This includes personal care assistance (i.e., bathing, dressing, toileting, and eating) and homemaker services (i.e., preparing meals, light housecleaning, and laundry). Other benefits might include help with health-related tasks (i.e., wound care), personal emergency response systems, medication reminder systems, and home delivered meals. For persons transitioning from a nursing home facility back into the community, CFC will cover some of the associated expenses, such as the security deposit and utility setup fees.
CFC program participants can receive personal care assistance, homemaker services, and health maintenance activities via a provider agency, or alternatively, they have the option to self-direct their own care. Two participant-directed options are available: In-Home Support Services (IHSS) and Consumer-Directed Attendant Support Services (CDASS). Both options allow program participants to hire a friend or relative, including an adult child or spouse, to provide them with care.
IHSS program participants work with a licensed IHSS agency who assists them in managing their budget. The agency also takes on all employer responsibilities, such as verifying caregiver capability, background checks, setting the caregiver payrate, withholding taxes, and issuing paychecks. On the other hand, CDASS program participants are the “employer”, managing their own budget and deciding their caregiver’s rate of pay. A financial management services agency handles the financial aspects of employment responsibilities, such as background checks, tax withholding, and caregiver payments.
For both service delivery options, program participants who cannot self-direct their own care can have a representative do so on their behalf. Program participants can live in their own home, the home of a friend or relative, a certified foster care home, or an alternative care facility (assisted living residence).
Key CFC Benefits:
- Broader access: More people now qualify for in-home care under Medicaid
- Family-centered: Caregivers can include adult children or other trusted relatives
- No CNA license required: IHSS attendants can provide personal care and health maintenance tasks with training through an agency like PASCO
- Person-centered flexibility: Care is delivered in the home, based on the needs and preferences of the individual
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, your loved one must:
- Be eligible for Health First Colorado (Medicaid)
- Need help with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, mobility, etc.)
- Qualify for long-term services through a Medicaid waiver or through the First Choice Program (CFC)
Steps to Becoming a Paid Family Caregiver
Step 1: Apply for Medicaid. If your loved one isn’t already enrolled, apply at colorado.gov/PEAK.
Step 2: Assessment with a Case Management Agency (CMA) Once enrolled, the CMA will assess your loved one’s care needs to determine eligibility and the number of approved care hours at aiavenues.org/
Step 3: Choose a Care Path
- Family CNA (Children or Adults): Get certified as a CNA and be paid to care for your loved one.
- In Home Support Services (IHSS) under the new Community First Choice Program (CFC): Skip CNA school — provide care at CNA level and above with training and support from a Medicaid-certified agency.
Becoming a paid caregiver can bring financial relief, reduce stress, and allow families to continue providing care in a way that maintains trust, comfort, and dignity. These programs empower families while avoiding the need for institutional care.
--
PASCO is a leading provider in Colorado specializing in training, supporting, and employing family caregivers. Their Family Caregiver Program include: CFC/IHSS Attendants: No CNA license required. Provide care with paid support and training; Family CNA: Get certified and provide skilled care to your child or adult family member; Pediatric Personal Care & IDD Programs: Tailored options for families of children or adults with special needs.
Visit pascohh.com to learn more or get started.
|
|
INFORMATION FROM OUR PARTNERS |
|
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.
Colorful Bites of Colorado: Exploring Healthy, Diverse Produce
Please register in advance at 303-651-8411. Registration #285077-08
The cost is $8 for residents and $10 for non-residents. Register by July 1.
Tuesday, July 8, 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Colorful Colorado. It’s more than sunrises, sunsets, mountains, and lakes! Thanks to our farmers, Colorado has one of the most diverse agricultural consumer markets. From primary colors to new products like purple potatoes and fava beans, Colorado farmers are experimenting more and more with new varieties of color, texture, and coolness! Let’s take that color palette to our summer plates. Instructor: Lisa Boesen
What If?
Please register in advance at 303-651-8411. Registration #284003-10
The cost is $6 for residents and $7 for non-residents. Register by July 3.
Thursday, July 10, 1–2:30 p.m.
It is always fun to think about What If? something happened. Usually we all think small, but it is possible to apply scientific principles to unusual circumstances and make arguments as to the consequences of even radical possibilities. This talk will give a scientist’s view of what might happen if the sun disappeared; we drained the oceans from the bottom of the Challenger Deep through a ten meter diameter portal to Mars; what might happen to a human subjected to 500 mph winds; and best of all how many T-Rexs could the population of New York sustain? Maybe more. Robert Meroney asks these questions and explains the many possibilities of various scenarios in this lively lecture.
Who Was the Sculptor in Buckskin?
Please register in advance at 303-651-8411. Registration #284003-12
The cost is $6 for residents and $7 for non-residents. Register by July 5.
After spending much of his youth hunting and sketching in the Colorado mountain wilderness of the 1870s, Alexander Phimister's talents took him throughout the U.S. and on to Paris and Rome. Storyteller Dave Lively will introduce you to a man who was so much more than a sculptor and artist. Phimister was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, incurable wanderer, and confidant to many prominent figures of his day.
Dementia Activity Ideas for Caregivers
Please register in advance at 303-651-8411. Registration #288909-00
Saturday, July 12, 10-11 a.m.
We'll introduce best practices for meaningful engagement (activity) ideas for your person living with mild cognitive impairment, as well as the different stages of dementia. We'll discuss the Montessori Method for dementia caregiving, as well as the art program, Memories in the Making. And we'll also identify how to modify engagements for your person's present abilities. Presented by Brenda Gurung, credentialed dementia specialist, founder of Be Growth Dementia Education, Forbes Health Advisory Board Member, and national senior living leader.
City of Boulder Older Adult Services
City of Boulder Older Adult Services offers a variety of health and wellness, lifelong learning, aging in place programs, as well as special interest groups. 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 July programs and services and to register, please view the Older Adult Services Program Guide. For weekly updates, sign up online to receive the Age Well e-Newsletter. To register for programs by phone, call 303-413-7290.
|
Feldenkrais: Move With Ease - FREE Introduction
East Age Well Center
Tuesday, July 1, 2:30-4 p.m.
The Feldenkrais Method of Somatic Education® helps participants learn to move with ease using slow, mindful movements to achieve powerful results in terms of balance, flexibility, and coordination. Feldenkrais relates directly to functional movements of daily life and an improved sense of grounding, walking and support. Lessons will be done seated, standing, and lying on a mat. Instructor: Gil Kelly
Plant Forward Boulder
East Age Well Center
Thursday, July 10, 10-11 a.m.
This program supports healthy, plant-based lifestyles by nurturing local connections, facilitating ongoing social support, and providing educational programming. Join to discuss this month’s topic “Iron and Health."
Share Ideas About the Future of Robots
East Age Well Center
Tuesdays, July 15, 22, and 29, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
The goal of this research is to learn how older adults believe robots could assist in activities of daily living. Participants will work alongside robotics researchers using Lego and craft materials to create prototypes of ideas. No robotics experience is required. Participants may attend up to three, 90-minute meetings to design robot prototypes, and will receive $10 in compensation in the form of an Amazon gift certificate for each session attended (maximum value $30).
NEW! Mindfulness/Awareness Meditation Series
West Age Well Center
Thursdays, July 17–31, 2:30–3:30 p.m.
This series will present the age-old practices of sitting and walking meditation. Beginners and experienced meditators welcome. Instructor: Roland Cohen has practiced meditation since 1972 and has taught meditation practice throughout the USA and other countries.
Stress Management for Caregivers
Online class
Wednesday, July 23, 1-2 p.m.
This presentation will review the signs of caregiver burnout and the role stress plays in one’s life, recognizing it as both a challenge and an opportunity for growth. Participants will learn strategies to effectively care for oneself, while caring for others. Presenter: Jesseca Tighe, PhD from SOULutions for Health.
Town of Erie Parks & Recreation - Active Adults
Lafayette Senior Center
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 louisvillerecreation.com.
Louisville Senior Services is located at 900 W Via Appia Way in Louisville.
Louisville Senior Services Ice Cream Social
Community Park (955 Bella Vista Dr.)
Thursday, July 17, 6-6:30 p.m.
Older adults (60+) are invited to enjoy some free ice cream with toppings and then stick around for the Thursday night Summer Concert in the Park with entertainment by Stone Beat Invasion Band. Ice cream provided by Sweet Cow. Parking is limited. Please carpool if you can.
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
