Aging
Altitude
at
BOULDER & BROOMFIELD COUNTIES
Healthy Aging
Smart Planning
Active Living
JOIN US AT THE 2021 FALL AGING EXPO! SATURDAY, NOV. 6 // 9:30 A .M. TO 2 P.M. // BOULDER JCC, 6007 OREG AVE., BOULDER W W W.DAILYCAMER A.COM/AGING
BUYERS AND SELLERS AGES 60+ HAVE UNIQUE REAL ESTATE NEEDS, WHETHER ITS DOWNSIZING FROM THE FAMILY HOME OR MOVING INTO A NEW COMMUNITY.
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5387 Manhattan Circle, Suite 200 Boulder, CO 80303 FALL 2021
303-494-7773 www.SpineWest.com
Wheat Ridge
3555 N Lutheran Parkway, Suite 210 Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 AGING AT ALTITUDE
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Features 37
SMART PLANNING 6
10 14 17 19 20 22
Hope Connected: Experiencing the Pandemic in a Retirement Community Meaningful, Vibrant Living: The Meadows Assisted Living at Frasier’s Whole-Person Approach Senior Living Perspectives Downsizing for Seniors Estate Planning 101 Annuities, Trusts and Reverse Mortgages New Natural Options Have Made Colorado a Pioneer in Green Funerals
HEALTHY AGING 24
26 28 30 32 34 36
Audio Possibilities: The Evolution of the Smart Listener The Irony of Aging and Eyesight Adding Life to Years & Years to Life The Benefits of Telehealth in Hospice and Palliative Care Navigating Your Health Over 65 Snoring Can Indicate More Significant Health Issues Getting Back in the Saddle - Say Goodbye to Erectile Dysfunction
Aging Altitude at
DailyCamera.com/Aging
Upgrade Your Morning Routine to Ease Arthritis Joint Pain Flu Season is Here: What You Need to Know Go for Grapes as a Smart Choice for Health and Wellness
36 41
ACTIVE LIVING 43
Living Life to the Fullest: Local Programs Provide Support for an Active Lifestyle Calming Computer Jitters: Help for Seniors Who Aren’t Tech-Savvy Products and Supplements that Support Active Aging Adapting to the Times: YMCA of Northern Colorado Tailors Programs to the Needs of the Community
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Aging Altitude at
THROUGH THE GENERATIONS EXPO
SATURDAY, NOV. 6 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. // Boulder JCC
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sarah Huber, Wendy McMillan, Linda Thorsen Bond, Emma Castleberry, Darian Armer, John Teehan, Andy Stonehouse, Julie Kailus, Kathleen Duff, Pam Moore, Barbra Cohn, Shelley Widhalm, Elise Oberliesen, Adam Goldstein, Judith Graham Emily Kemme EDITOR/ FEATURES COORDINATOR Greg Stone
(See Page 16 for Details)
MARKETING CONSULTANTS Julie Casper, Pete Christiansen, Jeanine Fritz, Ruth Garfield, Thais Hafer, Rich Hopkins, Kathy Johnson, Jim Koppel, Keith Kratochvil, Billy Magrini, Dale Sekuler VP / MARKETING & ADVERTISING Jill Stravolemos Aging at Altitude is an advertising feature of the Boulder Daily Camera, Broomfield Enterprise, Colorado Hometown Weekly and Longmont Times-Call. ©2021 Prairie Mountain Media.
From the Editor: We invite you to join us at the upcoming Aging at Altitude Expo on November 6! Please note we extended the time of the expo to accommodate all of our seminars. It will now begin at 9 a.m. 4
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DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
Comprehensive Ear Care Team
Are You Hearing This? BASELINE HEARING RECOMMENDATION Hearing is one of your most valuable assets- studies show improved hearing reduces your risk of dementia, falling, and hospitalization. A hearing check is recommended if it's been more than 3 years since your last hearing test.
HEALTHCARE PILLARS OF THE COMMUNITY With a combined 90 years spent seeing Boulder community patients it's no surprise we are the preferred providers for local nurses, physicians, and other healthcare workers.
Call 303.443.2771 to schedule
Tiana Lujan, Au.D., Samantha Warren, Au.D., Jill True, B.S., HIS, Gina Muhlberg, M.A.
Boulder 4745 Arapahoe Ave. Ste. 130 Boulder, CO 80303 FALL 2021
Board-Certified Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialists David Morrissey, M.D., Andrew Goldman, M.D., Donald Maschka, M.D., J. Douglas Warren, M.D.
Louisville 90 Health Park Dr., Ste. 220 Louisville, CO 80027
Lafayette 300 Exempla Circle, Ste. 210 Lafayette, CO 80026 AGING AT ALTITUDE
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SMART PLANNING
Hope Connected
Experiencing the pandemic in a retirement community
Enduring the COVID pandemic as seniors was made a little more doable thanks to their retirement community. (Photo: Flatirons Terrace)
By Sarah Huber for Aging at Altitude
F
or Margie and Don McGill, enduring the COVID pandemic as seniors was made a little more doable thanks to their retirement community. While life at Flatirons Terrace Independent Living of Dial Senior Living in Boulder has been wonderful since they moved in 11 years ago, that became more apparent when the pandemic reared in 2020. “If we were not in a senior community and were just in a house on our own, it would have been a lot more difficult,” Don said. Margie added, “We were all together in the same boat, and that helped.” Together in spirit though socially distanced, especially before vaccines were available, the community of Flatirons Terraces chatted on Zoom, swapped puzzles and enjoyed live music performed in the parking lot. Margie googled new recipes, and
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Margie and Don McGill have lived at Flatirons Terraces for 11 years. (Photo: Flatirons Terrace).
the couple handed out soup to neighbors. “I kept up my cookie baking too,” she said. “I have nine grandchildren and have mailed each one a cookie box since they were two.” Margie also tends to plants in her “apartment nursery,” Don said, and made a point to share a bit of greenery with residents who lived alone and felt especially isolated. Don began typing his memories during the pandemic and took up crafting – he learned to knit and returned to his hobby of stained glass artwork in time to create gifts for family and friends for Christmas 2020.
“For a few months,” Don said, “the restaurant here was closed – meals were delivered to the door – and our programs were halted; we couldn’t have visitors, and what we had was time. Thankfully, we could go out to the garden to see friends and to work in our plot,” where the McGills grow flowers and green beans. “They set up screenings to take our temperature at the door and hand washing stations, and we wore masks,” he said. Don and Margie believe the Flatirons Terraces’ staff “handled it very well through a very tough time,” Margie said. Online community meetings were a lifeline to many residents, and when no one could hug a grandchild or gather for clubs and games, everyone understood, cared and commiserated. Tim Watson, executive director at Flatirons Terrace said, “It is a credit to our staff, who engaged with our residents the best they could, following strict protocols.
(Our residents) appreciated it and supported our proactive actions.” Dial Senior Living provided Flatirons Terrace staff with increased pay during the height of the pandemic, and encouraging staff and residents alike remains a constant priority, he said. At Golden West, an independent and assisted living community in Boulder, staff and residents have similarly aimed to support those most in need. Golden West chief executive officer John McGrath noted, “Besides for staff checking in daily to keep a pulse on how residents were doing, we had residents themselves checking in on one another. Some offered to get groceries for others or help with day to day tasks, and a resident counseling group set up a telephone connection within the community, so if someone needed to chat, there was someone they could talk to.” During the early days of the pandemic, Balfour Senior Living in Superior organized window visits between loved ones and residents, with visitors sitting outside a closed window and speaking to residents via a digital device, said Louise Garrels, Balfour director of marketing and communications. “We have always had a deep commitment to keeping our residents in close communication with their families and loved ones,” she stated. “That said, the pandemic necessitated our adaptation to support this commitment. Hundreds of additional digital devices were purchased to support virtual meetings, Facetime calls (and) community town hall meetings.” DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
Finding the
Right Place
We are here to assiistt your famiily through h each h sttep in the search h for seniior liviing. Whether you’re beginning your search or just have questions, we’re ready to share our knowledge and experience to help you make a thoughtful, well-informed decision. We’re ready to listen, understand and partner to find the right options for you or your loved one.
Brookdale Meridian Boulder
Brookdale Boulder Creek
Brookdale North Boulder
Independent Living 801 Gillaspie Drive Boulder, CO 80305 (303) 214-9415
Assisted Living 3375 34th Street Boulder, CO 80301 (303) 214-2899
Independent Living 3350 30th Street Boulder, CO 80301 (303) 214-9429
54351 DWB
©2021 Brookdale Senior Living Inc. All rights reserved. BROOKDALE SENIOR LIVING is a registered trademark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc.
brookdale.com FALL 2021
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SMART PLANNING
Senior living communities’ pivot to virtual communication to connect people and to conduct business will benefit residents long after the pandemic, said Angela Spence, district director of sales at the senior living community of Brookdale Meridian in Boulder. For example, the McGills, who haven’t visited their grandchildren in-person in nearly three years, harnessed the pandemic’s forced quarantine to connect with children and grandchildren online every week or two. “We hope to keep that up,” Don said. Likewise, meetings on the in-house TV channel at Golden West kept residents abreast of the community’s renovation project, a $20 million undertaking commenced about the same time as COVID was first diagnosed in Colorado. “We were able to proceed by keeping everyone informed and by first renovating then-unused public spaces,” McGrath said. Only later, after most residents were vaccinated, did construction crews enter living quarters. “We sanitized thoroughly and have carefully followed all CDC and Colorado Department of Health & Environment protocols,” he said. Along the same lines, the pandemic pushed retirement communities to refine their personalized services. Spence
During the pandemic, Balfour resident “blanketeers” created hundreds of blankets for the nonprofit Project Linus. (Photo: Balfour Senior Living).
explained, “We learned better processes for cleaning, supply chain management, enhancing the dining experience and better programming for individual or small group activities, just to name a few.” Finally, as the pandemic eases, McGrath hopes that the relationships that developed between the Colorado Department of Health, families, communities and senior living communities will continue to
The peaceful setting at Brookdale Meridian in Boulder. (Photo: Brookdale Senior Living).
grow. “The protocols and things we learned will stay with us and help us best serve our residents,” he said. Garrels said the profound support experienced within and
for senior living communities is priceless. She recalled, “One resident left a post-it note that will resonate with us all for many years to come.” It read, “Thanks for keeping me alive.”
Featured Senior Living Communities Balfour Senior Living (Independent, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing, Respite Care), 1331 Hecla Drive, Louisville, 844.354.8877, balfourcare.com Brookdale Senior Living (Independent, Assisted Living) 3350 30th St., Boulder, 303.444.0200; 3375 34th St., Boulder, 303.473.0333; 801 Gillaspie Drive, Boulder, 8
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303.494.3900; 2240 Pratt St., Longmont, 303.682.1066, brookdale.com Flatiron Terrace (Independent, Assisted Living, Memory Care) 930 28th St., Boulder 303.939.0830 dialseniorliving.com/find-acommunity/flatirons-terracedial-senior-living-boulder-co
Frasier (Independent, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing, Respite Care) 350 Ponca Place, Boulder, 303.499.4888, frasiermeadows.com Golden West Senior Living (Independent, Assisted) 1055 Adams Circle, Boulder 303.444.3967, gwboulder.org
Hover Community (Independent, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing) 1380 Charles Drive, Longmont, 303.772.9292, hovercommunity.org Morningstar of Boulder (Assisted and Memory Care) 575 Tantra Drive, Boulder, 720.594.4433, morningstarseniorliving.com DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
University of Colorado Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab
Lifestyle/pharmacological-focused clinical trials aimed at helping us all age gracefully. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED Love Juice? Love Science? We’re looking for volunteers to participate in a study about the effects of beetroot juice on cardiovascular & brain functions.
Volunteers Needed! The Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab at the CU Boulder campus is seeking volunteers to participate in a clinical research study. We are looking for women and men with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease (ages 30-80) who are willing to consume 1 dose (~1/3rd of a cup) of beetroot juice every day for ~3 months. Benefits for volunteers include: cardiovascular health assessment, VO2max test, body composition, and blood chemistries.
FOR STUDIES INVESTIGATING THE POTENTIAL HEALTHY BENEFITS OF A NEW BREATHING EXERCISE INTERVENTION ON BLOOD PRESSURE AND CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Participants Will Receive: PHYSICAL EXA XAM A BY PHYSICIAN
BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING
COMPLETE BLOOD PANEL: BLOOD SUGAR & CHOLESTEROL
PHYSICAL FITNESS EVALUATION (HEART HEALTH)
BODY COMPOSITION (PERCENT BODY FAT) T))
BONE MINERAL DENSITY TYY (OSTEOPOROSIS RISK) K))
LOOKING FOR: Men & women (women must be post-menopausal) Ages 50+ years Higher blood pressure
All testing is performed at the University of Colorado Boulder main campus. There is monetary compensation for your time.
For more information, contact the Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab at the University of Colorado Boulder at (303) 735-6410 or email beetrootstudy@colorado.edu
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for Research Study!
Willing to excercise up to 25 minutes per day, 6 days a week, for 3 months
You will also receive compensation for your time.
Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab at University of Colorado Boulder Main Campus Please email IMSTstudy@colorado.edu or call (303) 492-2485 for more information.
LAST CHANCE:
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! The Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab at CU Boulder is seeking volunteers to participate in a clinical research trial testing the effects of a Western-style diet on gut microbiome composition and cardiovascular function.
Volunteers Needed!
The Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab at is seeking volunteers to participate in a clinical research study. We are looking for healthy women and men
Volunteers 50 years and over needed for a physiology study of the effects of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), a form of vitamin B3. Must be willing to undergo 3 months of NR or placebo supplementation. Total duration of the study will require 16 hours over 4 months. All testing is performed on the University of Colorado Boulder main campus locations. There will be monetary compensation for your time.
Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab University of Colorado Boulder IPA Lab, 354 UCB Boulder, CO 80309
For more information, please email NRstudy@colorado.edu or call (303) 492-2485
(ages 18-29 and 60-79) who are willing to eat two different diets for one week each: a Western-style diet (higher fat and sugar) and non-Western diet (lower fat and sugar, higher fiber). All meals will be provided for each 7-day phase. Benefits for volunteers include: cardiovascular health assessment, VO2max test, body ccomposition, and blood chemistries. UNIVEERSITY OF COLORADO AT BOULDER • DEPARTMENT OF INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY IPA Lab, 354 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309 Integrative For more information, please e-mail Physiology of Aging ipalab@colorado.edu or call 303-735-6410 Laboratory
To sign up, call or email us at the info listed on each flyer. For general info, visit: https://www.colorado.edu/iphy/research FALL 2021
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SMART PLANNING
Meaningful,Vibrant Living As we age, our memories may grow less sharp, but that doesn’t mean our lives need be less memorable. (Photo: Frasier).
The Meadows Assisted Living at Frasier’s wholeperson approach to care and community By Wendy McMillan for Aging at Altitude
A
s we age, our memories may grow less sharp, but that doesn’t mean our lives need be less memorable. In fact, at The Meadows Assisted Living at Frasier, it’s quite the opposite. Under the skilful, nurturing attention of caring, energetic, expert staff, each day at The Meadows is replete with life-enriching activities that holistically support residents10
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-physically, recreationally, cognitively, spiritually, socially, and emotionally. But the real heartbeat, the undercurrent that inspires and sustains the ongoing, uplifting hum of activity, is the genuine warmth of the Frasier community as a whole, including the staff, the residents and their families. Founded in 1960 to serve and enrich the lives of Boulder’s seniors, Frasier is a life-plan community offering a continuum of care that allows residents to live their lives fully with the care they need, when they need it. Located on a sprawling 20-acre campus in residential Boulder, the beautiful campus consists of three central neighborhoods, each with a unique focus – independent living, assisted
living and memory support, and skilled nursing/long-term care. These three levels of care share continuous opportunities to connect throughout their journeys, maintaining friendships and building new ones. While the authentic sense of community is apparent throughout, the special warmth is perhaps most resonant in The Meadows Assisted Living at Frasier, where residentcentered programs and activities provide top-tier support for those with memory loss. Activities at The Meadows are thoughtfully facilitated to nourish friendships and connection while offering physical care and cognitive support. Assisted Living Director Megan Thomas works tirelessly with her team to create a seamless flow of
opportunities for residents that nurture on all levels. A typical day at The Meadows will see exercise classes, arts and crafts, read alouds, discussions, cooking, and more, led by Community Life Coordinators Lisa Duggan and Amy Miller. Residents can participate in a Bible study led by a Frasier chaplain, get together for card games, and gather for happy hour. “There’s always so much that goes on,” Thomas says, adding that the purposeful design of the assisted living and memory support communities at Frasier are laid out in a way that is exceptionally conducive to building connections. “The abundant natural light, and the total design is such that residents are always welcomed into a community space,” she says. DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
When comparing Medicare plans, let’s make sure the clear winner is...
Medicare Annual Enrollment Period Oct. 15 - Dec. 7 There are A LOT of Medicare options and making sense of it all can be overwhelming. With multiple carriers and many outstanding Medicare plans to choose from, having a local advocate by your side can make all the difference!
Call, text or email me today to schedule your no-obligation appointment. Mary Hansen
Licensed Insurance Agent
303-548-2841
missmary.hansen@gmail.com www.AgingAtAltitude.com
As a local & licensed insurance agent, I can help you with: • Understanding your Medicare options • Plan analysis & review • Plan selection & enrollment • Ongoing support & service Many plans have premiums as low as $0!
FALL 2021
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Each of the diverse activities at The Meadows Assisted Living incorporates both purposeful, enjoyable experience and room for spontaneity. Duggan’s cooking class, for example, evokes memory and sharing in many ways. Held in the beautiful kitchen, fondly called “The Little Bistro”, residents recently made pumpkin doughnuts. “Cooking is so sensory-rich and skillbuilding,” Duggan says. “We do a full presentation, introducing the history of what we’re making, measuring, mixing, tasting. It lends naturally to talking, sharing.” Of equal importance to planned activities at The Meadows are the detours. “We have lots of discussions,” Miller says. “Often we go on tangents, and it’s wonderful.” In a recent discussion group, Miller shares, a lead-in topic led to a different path, in which residents began sharing their experiences in parenting. “They were all parents,” she said. “The memories started flowing in a way that was resonant and unifying.” Making the decision for a loved one to move into care is not easy, for anyone involved. At The Meadows Assisted Living at Frasier, families not only gain peace of mind thanks to the superior level of care and quality
programming, but they are also embraced as part of the Frasier community themselves. “From the moment a resident moves in, we extend care to family members as well, making sure they know we’re partnering with them to help us get to know their loved ones,” Thomas says. “It’s really common to see someone’s daughter or sibling at a concert, or have family members join us in the bistro or for one of our activities.” Sharing meaningful time together, it’s no wonder the community at The Meadows is so close-knit. Residents become like family to one another, and they are cared for as such. “We feel more than a responsibility to them,” Thomas says. “It’s an honor, and invigorating, to be here. Residents may not remember your name every day, but they remember how you made them feel the day before.” Duggan and Miller agree. “Someone said the most moving words to me the other day,” Duggan says. “She said, ‘I don’t remember your name, but I know I love you.’” Frasier 350 Ponca Place, Boulder 303.499.4888 frasiermeadows.org
Comprehensive Eye Exams LASIK LONGMONT • BOULDER LAFAYETTE • GREELEY
(720) 605-1792 eyecaresite.com 12
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Sharing meaningful time together, it’s no wonder the community at The Meadows is so close-knit. (Photo: Frasier). DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
Have you arranged for trusted helpers to manage your assets and healthcare if you can’t? Have you left a mess for your family to clean up after you’re gone? Did you create an estate plan five years ago and never look at it again?
Please call for your free Family Asset Protection Survival Guide. Learn how you can protect yourself and your family from probate, long-term care costs, and estate tax. You can also visit our booth on Saturday, November 6th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and join us for our talk on asset protection for you and your beneficiaries.
(303) 800-1588 • melanie@braverman-law.com • https://www.braverman-law.com/ FALL 2021
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SMART PLANNING
Real Talk. With Real People.
Senior Living Perspectives By Linda Thorson Bond for Aging at Altitude
W
e reached out to current senior living residents at Balfour Senior Living and family members addressing all levels of care. Here’s what we’ve learned firsthand about their personal journeys in making the decision to move themselves or their loved ones into a senior living community. Dick Strauch is a retired NOAA radar engineer. He and wife Margaret raised their children in North Boulder. They have lived in a continuum of care starting in Independent Living
in Louisville and now Dick is in Assisted Living and Margaret in Memory Care in Longmont. He approached his living situation with the mind-set of an engineer: “An engineer makes things work and solves problems. That’s what I’ve done,” he said. Dick explained their journey in long term care. “We were living independently in North Boulder, then circumstances started to change,” he said. “Instead of leaving our North Boulder home feet first as I expected, I had to make the decision about where to live to keep from putting that decision on the shoulders of our children. Twenty years ago, I got long term care insurance. Then
my wife developed dementia, and that has dictated everything since. My wife’s dementia was progressing, and I knew we had to do something. We found Balfour in Louisville which offered Independent Living. But between now and then Margaret’s dementia worsened, and we discovered that Balfour was building a new unit in Longmont that had both Memory Care and Independent Living.” Dick continued, “I needed more help. Having Margaret in Memory Care relieved me at night so I don’t have to worry about her then. I do things with her during the day; in fact we eat every lunch and dinner together.
The unit has a separate dining room for Memory Care which is less stressful for me. If we were sitting down in another dining room, other people would want to come up and sit with us. My wife can converse one-on-one, but not more than that. Secondly, her table manners are not what you’d want at a fine dinner table.” Dick lives in a one-bedroom apartment on the opposite ends of a fairly big building, but said it just takes a minute or so to get to the Memory Care unit. “There’s plenty of room in the apartment for me and they clean my place once a week,” he said. “A big issue is food. I never was a cook. And in fact in my original place we
Caring for Our Community with: Hospice Palliative Care PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) Grief Services Inpatient Care Center The Conversation Project TRU Tele-Care
Learn More:
(303) 449-7740 TRUcare.org
Affirming life at every step of your journey with illness and loss. 14
AGING AT ALTITUDE
DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
hadn’t needed the stove for three years.” He concluded, “Things are not always on an even keel. Margaret has her ups and downs, but the living arrangement works for us. I can only talk from experience. At the Expo I’ll say that we moved when we had to, and I did what I had to do. I’ve learned a lot about dementia, and that’s what I have to offer.” Carol Grever is a published author who now lives in Assisted Living in Longmont. Active in community life, she has served on a dozen non-profit boards and has received numerous honors, including the Colorado Business and Professional Women’s Woman of the Year and Community Service Award, Entrepreneur of Distinction, Boulder’s Business Pacesetter, and Boulder County’s Business Hall of Fame. She met her husband, Dale
Carol Grever
Meyer, while serving as Boulder Chamber Board members. Dale was the first to move to Balfour. He moved into Memory Care in Louisville and then Memory Care in Longmont once Carol knew she needed Assisted Living but wanted to reside in the same building as Dale. Carol talked about the decision to move into assisted living: “My husband has Alzheimer’s
and he has been in the Balfour Cherrywood Village Facility. I was rattling around living alone in our big house for almost two years by myself. Then my eyesight was failing from glaucoma, our ‘family curse.’ I decided I would not be able to drive much longer and I needed a place where I could have transportation and nursing. With Belfour Longmont, my husband and I could be in the same building. Dale resides on the first-floor wing of this building, and I’m on the third floor in an independent living apartment. I’m very happy here. I have lovely views in this brand-new facility that is all nice and shiny. I eat one or two meals a day in the dining room, and I have a small kitchen in my apartment with a stove and microwave. I order groceries by phone and have them delivered. I don’t do a lot of cooking but I have sandwiches
and fruit in my own place.” Carol has gone on some of the tours in Balfour’s 12-person bus, but she also can make physician appointments and a driver takes her and waits for her. She said, “I think we have a choice of the amount of help we accept. I’m independent now, but as my vision continues to fail so that I can’t fend for myself, there is a continuum of care so I’ll have assistance beyond that. I feel confident that I will get the care I need, and my husband has the care I need for him.” Listen to full stories about making hard choices at the upcoming Aging at Altitude Expo, Saturday, Nov. 6 at the Boulder JCC, 6007 Oreg Ave. The Real Talk, Real People Seminar is from 11 a.m. to noon or visit dailycamera.com/aging
AN END TO ISOLATION
Find Fellowship & Fitness At the Y
Isolation and lon neliness are enduring issues that have beeen magnified by the pandemic. Th hat’s why, at the Y, we work to unite neigh hborhoods and build meaningful relationships for seniors. From knitting clu ubs to social events, exercise cla asses to cups of coffee in the lobbies to volunteer opp portunities, the Y fosters connections and creates welcomiing com mmunities that currb isolation and nurture friends for all agees.
At the Y, Active Older Adults Enjoy:
• Clubs and events • Acctive older adults group p exercise classes • SilverSneakers, Silver&Fitt and Renew Active memberships • Prrograms developed for peeople with Parkinson’s, cancer, arrthritis and balance challen nges • Aq quatics classes and program ms • Viirtual fitness classes • Pickleball • Vo olunteer opportunities YMCA OF NORTHERN COLORADO • An nd much more! ymcanoco.org
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Aging Altitude at
THROUGH THE GENERATIONS EXPO FREE EVENT! JOIN US! 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 6
Boulder JCC, 6007 Oreg Ave., Boulder (corner of Arapahoe and Cherryvale)
EXHIBITORS INCLUDE: • Alpine Physical Therapy / Alpine PT Home Care • Audio Information Network of Colorado • Balfour Senior Living • Bill Allen, RE/MAX of Boulder • Boulder County Area Agency on Aging • Boulder Valley Hearing • Braverman Law Group • Brookdale Senior Living • CarePenguin • Curantis Health
LEVIN HALL 9 to 9:30 a.m. Navigating Resources for Aging Well Presented by: Teresa DeAnni and Neal Waite, Boulder County Area Agency on Aging 9:30 to 10 a.m. Add Life to Your Years and Years to Your Life: Physiatry Tip for Victorious Aging! Presented by: Cliff Gronseth, M.D., Spine West 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Senior Law Panel Critical Legal Documents: How to plan for incapacity or poor health and how best to enable adult children or trusted friends to act on your behalf Presented by Susie Germany, The Germany Law Firm P.C. Trusts: Probate and Asset Protection for You and Your Beneficiaries Presented by Diedre Braverman, Braverman Law Group
• Dale Pearson, RE/MAX of Boulder • Dental Horizons • Ensight Skills Center, Colorado Low-Vision Service and Care • Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado • Fabulous Finds Upscale Consignment • Family Hearing • Financially Intact, Vejrostek Tax and Financial • Frasier • Gabe Bodner, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation
• • • • • • • • • • •
Golden West Greska’s Carbon-60 Heartology Patient Advocacy Kaiser Permanente Magnolia Road Mary Hansen, Licensed Advisor / Medicare Solutions Mental Health Partners Morningstar of Boulder Renewal by Anderson Spine West Superior Medical Solutions
FREE SEMINARS!
11 a.m. to noon Real Talk with Real People: Senior Living Perspectives. A candid and informative discussion with current senior living residents and family members addressing all levels of care. Presented by: Steve Bosley, Dick Strauch, Carol Grever, Balfour Senior Living Noon to 1 p.m. Age-Related Eye Problems Presented by: Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado 1 to 2 p.m. Hearing Health Panel Medical Side Effects from Hearing Loss Presented by: Dr. Samantha Warren, Au.D. CCC-A, Boulder Valley Hearing Hearing Care Is Changing: Learn how consumer expectations are generating better hearing solutions Presented by Chelsea Walters, BS BC-HIS, Family Hearing
PLUS! Join YMCA of Northern Colorado Silver Sneakers instructors Joyce Willis and Khris Wright for an intro to the popular SilverSneakers Circuit!
11:30 a.m. to noon Understanding Annuities: Scams or Safe Investing? Presented by: Ron Vejrostek, Financially Intact, Vejrostek Tax and Financial
9:30 to 10 a.m. Reverse Mortgages: Utilize Your Equity Strategically to Live a More Fruitful Life During Your Golden Years Presented by: Gabe Bodner, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation
Noon to 12:30 p.m. Snoring Is a Ticking Time Bomb: Save Your Life and Marriage Presented by: Andrew Kelson, DDS, Dental Horizons
10 to 10:30 a.m. Home Care and Home Health: Making the Right Choice Presented by: Chuck Philipp, Alpine Physical Therapy 10:30 to 11 a.m. Patient Advocacy: Cardiac Nurses Help You and Your Family Navigate the Healthcare System Presented by: Kimberly Krusinski, RN BCPA, Heartology Patient Advocacy 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Fall Prevention for Healthy Living Presented by: Nicole Barabas, Frasier
For more information, call 303.473.1420 or email jill@dailycamera.com
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The Germany Law Firm P.C. The Natural Funeral Trailhead Community Trail Winds Hospice TRU Community Care University of Colorado Boulder Physiology Laboratory • We Move Your Mom • YMCA of Northern Colorado
LOBBY, ROOM L130 9 to 9:30 a.m. Using Technology to Stay Well Presented by: Marcia Klassen, Brookdale Meridian
DAILYCAMERA.COM/AGING PRESENTED BY:
• • • • • •
12:30 to 1 p.m. Medicare 101: The Basics and How to Plan for 2022 Changes Presented by: Mary Hansen, Licensed Advisor/Medicare Solutions 1 to 1:30 p.m. So you’ve decided a move is necessary… NOW WHAT?! Helpful tips, tricks & checklists Presented by Kathy Grams, We Move Your Mom 1:30 to 2 p.m. Holistic Funerals: Natural, Ecological, Sustainable Options Presented by: Karen van Vuuren, The Natural Funeral
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SMART PLANNING
Downsizing for Seniors What you need to know about moving later in life
By Emma Castleberry for Aging at Altitude
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or many seniors, the time will come when you realize a move is necessary. And often, that move is going to require some downsizing. This means reducing your possessions, managing your estate, and possibly selling your home and purchasing something smaller. Whether you’re a senior with your own downsizing plans, or an adult child who’s trying to help a parent or relative, this process can be wildly overwhelming. Here are some tips for simplifying and streamlining the moving experience.
UTILIZE HELP FROM EXPERTS
Downsizing as a senior is a FALL 2021
common experience with a lot of moving parts, and there are experts who know how to make it easier. Move management services like We Move Your Mom can provide priceless insight when it comes to the nitty gritty details. In many cases, a big part of their job is providing emotional support as well as help with logistics. “The emotions are part of the process,” says Amy Fisk, co-owner with Kathy Grams of We Move Your Mom. “This can be a very stressful time for our senior clients and their families. There are logistics and then there are feelings. We are there to help ease the transition.” We Move Your Mom provides an unbiased third party that can create a timeline for the move and anticipate the many decisions that will need to be made. “We give our client the benefit of reducing
the surprises that can pop up when there are complicated logistics and multiple moving parts,” says Fisk. “We are well-seasoned at managing everything including the sale of personal property, sorting through everything, downsizing for the next home, organizing giving furniture and items to family, donating to community organizations, decluttering, packing, overseeing the move process and the team, unpacking and resettling, conducting auction and estate sales. Every detail is considered.”
ANTICIPATE THE UNEXPECTED
Moving as a senior, with a lifetime of accumulated items both material and sentimental, is much more complicated than moving earlier in life. It
might be tempting for adult children especially to think they can manage on their own, but it’s important to expect the unexpected. “So much of moving can seem like a no-brainer — we’ve all moved before, right?” says Fisk. But then suddenly, a series of tedious details come to the surface. “It’s about having a clear understanding of how a mattress gets recycled or handling the old shellac in the garage. Where does it all go? How does it get there? Who will take it? Who will help me sell my home so that I get maximum return on my longtime investment, and how will all of that work with my move to the senior community I’m hoping to move into?” These factors are incredibly daunting on their own, and then there is the emotional piece of feeling attached to many of these items and having to make a major life transition amidst it all. This is another reason why the help of professionals is key when you are downsizing later in life.
BE SUSTAINABLE AS YOU DOWNSIZE
Sifting through all of your material possessions is a massive task for anyone, but many seniors find a silver lining in passing on some of their precious items to someone else who will enjoy them, and making a little money at the same time. “When downsizing, we suggest keeping those items that have heirloom qualities,” says Clarissa Edelen of Fabulous Finds Consignment. “The items you should keep are ones that bring you joy, are necessary and practical, and that are easy to design around in a new location.” For everything else, AGING AT ALTITUDE
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consignment is an excellent option that gives you a return on your investment and is more sustainable and eco-friendly than sending your belongings to a landfill. Especially for highquality items like china and sterling, Fabulous Finds is a great place to start when it comes to downsizing and consigning your belongings.
FIND A SENIOR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST TO SELL OR BUY A HOME
If you have to deal with real estate transactions – either selling your current home, purchasing a newer, smaller home with greater accessibility, or both – a Realtor with direct experience with seniors will be crucial to your success. Choosing your next landing spot after you downsize will be the first step in the process, says SRES Dale Pearson of RE/MAX Boulder. “The first step to downsizing
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for seniors is to make sure they have a plan on a replacement property,” he says. Pearson adds that right now is a great time to downsize because it’s a sellers market – but this also creates complications with buying a new home. “Inventory is low in many price ranges so there aren’t a lot of choices,” Pearson says. But there are still options if you want to buy a new property. “It’s best to call your Realtor to keep an eye out for potential replacement properties for downsizing before making a move to list your property,” Pearson says. “Sometimes a seller can remain in their property with a delayed occupancy when selling to create more time in locating a replacement property. There are options.” Those options will be best explored with a real estate agent who knows exactly what your dealing with as a senior in a late-life transition.
DO RESEARCH BEFORE MOVING TIME
Just because your downsizing move isn’t right around the corner doesn’t mean you can’t start learning about the process right now. Doing your research about your downsizing options, how to streamline a move, and what the housing market looks like right now will help inform you when it does come time to start the process. Fisk of We Move Your Mom will be presenting a workshop at the Aging at Altitude Senior Expo called “So You’ve Decided a Move Is Necessary… Now What?!” The presentation will include a variety of helpful tips, tricks, and checklists to help you tackle the downsizing experience – or prepare for doing so in the future. Whenever the time comes, be prepared for the downsizing process. It’s likely to be more complicated than you expect, but with the help of experts and
proper planning, you can ensure things are as streamlined and smooth as possible. Bill Allen, RE/MAX of Boulder 2425 Canyon Blvd. #110, Boulder, 303.441.5690, billallenboulder.com Dale Pearson RE/MAX of Boulder 2425 Canyon Blvd., #110 Boulder, 303.818.5640, mainlevelliving.net Fabulous Finds Upscale Consignment 600 S. Airport Road, Longmont, 720.340.4152, fabfindsconsign.com We Move Your Mom Mover Mavens LLC Boulder/Denver Metro Area 720.340.1056, wemoveyourmom.com
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SMART PLANNING
By Darian Armer for Aging at Altitude
Estate Planning 101
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ith the seemingly ever-lasting pandemic constantly in the foreground, now is a better time than later to assess your estate plans and disability priorities. “With the current health crisis, this is the first time some people are really thinking about what’s going to happen if they get sick or pass away. They start to think, ‘Who has the authority to make decisions for me if I can’t make them for myself?’ It’s a huge eye opener for people to start thinking about that type of planning for the first time,” says Susie Germany, principal attorney and owner/manager of Germany Law. Estate planning isn’t just deciding which of your family members gets your stamp collection when you pass. It also includes setting parameters for your future medical care and establishing who you want to be in charge of tough decisions should you be unable to make them yourself. “Estate planning is the process of putting your wishes in place regarding your will, a trust or if you are incapacitated, a medical power of attorney and financial power of attorney,” says Germany. “One of the big changes that has happened during COVID, is that people want more flexibility in their planning documents, because science has changed in the last two years. There have been scientific advancements and people may want different kinds of treatments longer. They may be okay being on a ventilator longer than they originally thought.” In this case, living wills, also called advance directives, are what are most commonly utilized.
FALL 2021
Estate planning includes setting parameters for your future medical care and establishing who you want to be in charge of tough decisions should you be unable to make them yourself. (Photo: Germany Law).
Germany says current Colorado law looks at two different situations regarding if a person is in a persistent Susie Germany vegetative state or has a terminal illness where they aren’t expected to live more than six months. Germany then asks detailed questions regarding medical directives about ventilators and tube feeding, among many others. “Many people weren’t prepared to be alone and without a family member with them in the hospital. It’s shocking how quickly and aggressively this disease can get people, and people you never really would have thought of being sick,” Germany says. Having a living will in place helps take some of the pressure off should you find yourself in a serious medical situation. “The other thing we’ve found is some of the people who have lingering effects and your
cognitive status may not be 100 percent. It’s important to have someone to lean on to help make decisions at that time,” Germany says. In this scenario, guardianship status would allow the appointed person to help make decisions about your health and welfare. So, what’s the danger of not preparing anything in advance? “Unfortunately, we run into that everyday around here. The first big danger is you’re potentially creating a really stressful, really expensive situation for your family. The probate process is much more complicated if someone doesn’t have anything in place or has had bad planning,” Germany says. “Sometimes people go online and download a fill-in-the-blank form to have a well-meaning family member help them. That can create a real fiasco.” Germany encourages parents to have conversations with their kids about medical and financial decision-making when they turn 18. “It’s a really good idea to have power of attorney at a minimum
when they turn 18. For most people, the time in life when they should start getting something in place is when they buy their first house, get married or get their first job. It triggers people to start thinking about it. You should relook at the situation every five years or if there are big life changes like a birth, death or divorce,” she says. Germany says the biggest thing she finds people worry about when it comes to estate planning, is the cost. “People don’t understand the cost is far less than what they will likely end up paying if they don’t. If you have to run to court to get guardianship or conservatorship for someone in the hospital the cost will be two to four times more expensive than if they would have come in and planned in the first place. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure in this case,” says Germany. Germany Law 77 Erie Village Square Suite 100, Erie, 303.454.3711, coelderlaw.com AGING AT ALTITUDE
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Annuities, Trusts and Reverse Mortgages What you need to know
By John Teehan for Aging at Altitude
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hey say that one can never plan too soon for retirement. While that’s true, it’s also true that planning for one’s retirement at any age has its benefits. If you’ve not started yet, it may not be too late to find ways to set aside some funds for after retirement. By understanding some of the ways you can set money aside for your later years, you’ll be able to rest easy, knowing your future is more secure. Figuring out retirement savings can be tricky business at times, however. What are the best methods to use? What are the pros and cons? Which ones might be scams? We’ve looked at three popular ways people set money aside for the future – annuities, trusts, and reverse mortgages – and talked with some local experts on the matter.
ANNUITIES
Annuities are insurance contracts that provide a fixed income stream for a person’s lifetime or a specified period of time. An annuity can be purchased with a lump sum or a series of payments. It can begin paying out almost immediately or at a later date. Annuities are often used as a way 20
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to fund retirement. Annuities can be optimized for income or long-term growth, but they are not short-term investment strategies. These products appeal to people whose objectives include long-term financial security, retirement income, diversification and principal preservation. Ron Vejrostek of Vejrostek Tax & Financial in Longmont and author of the book Financially Intact speaks of four different types of annuities. Three of them he deems safe while recommending people think twice about the fourth. “There are four types of annuities – immediate, fixed, fixed interest and variable interest. As the name suggests, an immediate annuity pays out right away from the owner’s lump-sum contribution – there’s no waiting. A fixed annuity is similar to a CD in that it accumulates value at a guaranteed rate of interest and is based on the owner’s contribution. A fixed interest annuity only guarantees the money you’ve put into it, as the interest itself can often vary anywhere between 0 and 6%. It usually averages a 3 to 4% interest payout. “Less secure is the variable interest annuity. Their fees tend to be higher, and the investments are riskier as they are usually tied to
the stock market.” Of the four annuities Ron describes, the first three he considers secure investments for the future, while variable interest annuities carry more expense and risk.
LIVING TRUSTS
A living trust is a legal document enacted during your lifetime. A designated trustee takes on the management of assets so that financial stability can be maintained should you become incapable. The Trustee of a living trust has a fiduciary duty to manage the trust responsibly with the best interests of the trust’s creator. While most living trusts include financial assets, real estate, vehicles, and jewelry, they can also include mining rights and intellectual property. According to Diedre Braverman of Braverman Law Group, LLC of Boulder, “Trusts are like Swiss army knives; they can do many different things like tax reduction or asset protection. But when most people ask how a trust can help them, they’re asking about a revocable living trust, a probate avoidance tool. Why do people want to avoid probate? Probate is the court-supervised process of transferring assets from someone who has died to the people legally entitled to receive them. But most people don’t need the court to supervise their estates. “ How do they apply to your
finances as you get older? Braverman goes on to say, “A living trust is a three-way agreement with yourself. You are the Settlor – the person setting up the trust and putting money into it. You are also the Trustee – the person managing the trust, investing the assets, and spending the money. And you are the Beneficiary – the person the Trustee is managing, investing, and spending for. If you’re married, you can set up a joint trust, and you can both be Settlors, Trustees and Beneficiaries together.” Creating a revocable living trust is an effective method for making sure your property remains available to be used for your benefit should you become physically or mentally incapable of managing your affairs. You can also avoid the time and expense of dealing with probate and continue uninterrupted investment management if you become disabled.
REVERSE MORTGAGES
This lending option allows homeowners who’ve paid off all or most of their mortgage to take advantage of home equity to draw a lump sum or line of credit. With reverse mortgages, eligible homeowners (usually above a certain age) borrow money against the value of their homes. Interest accrues monthly, and the loan isn’t required to be paid until the DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
borrower moves out or passes away. Reverse mortgages typically come in one of three forms. They can be a single-purpose reverse mortgage which is generally considered the most affordable and used for a specific, lender-approved item or property. There is also the home equity conversion mortgage which is HUD-insured. It’s a popular choice for many borrowers because there are no income or medical requirements. They can also be used for any purpose and have different payment options. Finally, there is the proprietary reverse mortgage which is typically reserved for higher-value homes. An important thing to know about reverse mortgages is that they usually involve costly fees and closing costs, plus significant mortgage insurance premiums. A lot depends on how much of the borrower’s original mortgage has been paid. We spoke with Gabe Bodner of Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp of Boulder. He pointed out that reverse mortgages have changed for the better over recent years. Improved regulations have made reverse mortgages a safer program, and there are some excellent tax benefits when handled correctly. “For one, should someone decide to utilize a reverse mortgage earlier in their retirement instead of later, they can make the value of their mortgage last longer because proceeds from a reverse mortgage are free from income tax.” Are there other pros and cons to consider? Certainly. It’s always a good idea to learn as much as possible before getting started with a reverse mortgage. Among the benefits of a reverse mortgage are such things as it allows borrowers to stay in their home and have the ability to pay off an existing mortgage to free up funds for living expenses. That’s not to say there aren’t FALL 2021
a few risks. Unfortunately, there are dishonest actors out there who are ready to take advantage of elderly homeowners. Always research the company or individual offering to help set you up with a reverse mortgage. There are also sometimes considerable fees and mortgage insurance payments to cover. Make sure you’re made aware of every expense associated with your reverse mortgage. Similarly, be mindful of other requirements such as payment schedules and property upkeep to avoid trouble with the mortgage. With support from a qualified and trusted mortgage company, the benefits of a reverse mortgage can outweigh the negatives. The crucial thing to remember is to learn as much as possible about your reverse mortgage’s terms.
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
It’s difficult to predict the future. The wisest course of action is to try to be prepared for as much as possible. By utilizing annuities, trusts and reverse mortgages to help cover your financial future, you can rest more easily and secure. The key thing is to consult with experts with a trustworthy reputation and a history of customer satisfaction. Then feel free to enjoy retirement to its fullest. Braverman Law Group 1823 Folsom St., #101, Boulder, 303.800.1588, braverman-law.com Gabe Bodner, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation 777 29th St., #102 Boulder, 720.600.4870, reversemortgagesco.com Vejrostek Tax and Financial 421 21st Ave., #213 Longmont, 303.776.0867, ronsoffice.biz
Yes, we are still Boulder’s long-cherished affordable senior housing provider. We’re completing our biggest renovation in 50 years and excited to show off our updated apartments, dining and wellness spaces. Look closely: same great people and community in an updated package.
1055 Adams Circle, Boulder CO | 303-444-3967 AGING AT ALTITUDE
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SMART PLANNING
New Natural Options Have Made Colorado a Pioneer in Green Funerals By Andy Stonehouse for Aging at Altitude
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Seth Viddal and Karen van Vuuren. (Photo: The Natural Funeral).
s more people chose to embrace environmentally-friendly policies and products in their everyday lives, there’s also been a movement to employ those same considerations in our endof-life rituals. And for anyone who’s dealt with the sometimes off-putting and costly world of funeral arrangements – or folks who quite literally want to be returned to the earth when they pass – there’s been plenty of interest in the notions of greener funerals. Karen van Vuuren, co-owner of Boulder County’s The Natural
28 87
S 120th St
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Funeral, a holistic funeral home, said families now have a wider variety of non-traditional burial and cremation options. “People are yearning for something meaningful in life, and there’s been a heightened awareness of environmental concerns,” she said. “And there’s also more concerns around our final choices, and how those will impact future generations. The people who come to us like natural options, not the conventional options, even in funeral arrangements. They want something more humane and more meaningful.” And thanks to lobbying work she and her associates successfully conducted with Gov.
Good Samaritan is an accredited Level II Trauma Center, a Primary Stroke Center, an Chest Pain Center and much more. Learn more about our full spectrum of emergency services and care by visiting scl.health/GoodSamED
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52 W 144th Ave
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200 Exempla Circle, Lafayette, CO 80026 | 303-689-4000 22
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Jared Polis this year, families are now legally allowed to pursue options such as natural body composting, in addition to other alternative arrangements such as water cremation or green burials. “Our work has made us a national pioneer in green and holistic death care, and there’s been lots of international interest in what we’re able to do,” she explained. Legislation passed on Sept. 7 by the Colorado state government meant that The Natural Funeral could begin working with families who desired to have their loved ones’ remains literally turned into fertilizer – about the greenest route possible. “The composting option uses a natural reduction process in a temporary, above-ground wooden vessel, which is filled with straw, wood chips and other compost, and then uses a managed biological process and oxygenation to compost remains over six months to a year,” she said. Other options include so-called water cremation, which uses
water and alkaline solutions to naturally dissolve remains in just a few hours. The resulting liquid is sterile and can literally be used as fertilizer; bone material can then be traditionally cremated. van Vuuren said it’s a more environmentally beneficial process and has been well-received by families and individuals who appreciate the methodology. Alternately, families can also opt for an equally literal green burial, with a body simply wrapped in a shroud for a lower-impact burial. The Natural Funeral also provides funeral facilities for families looking for a less traditional place to host a memorial service. “We can help with the experience that families have, who are going through a loss that’s hard to process, and help it feel more meaningful. There are also some benefits given to the earth in the process,” she said. The Natural Funeral 102 W. Chester St., Lafayette, 720.515.2344, thenaturalfuneral.com
5,840 DAYS Because changing a life isn’t quick & simple
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Office Locations in Erie, Brighton and Denver AGING AT ALTITUDE
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HEALTHY AGING
is like trying to describe the color red without using the word red!”
THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL CONNECTIONS
(Illustration: Boulder Valley Hearing Associates).
Audio Possibilities The Evolution of the Smart Listener
By Julie Kailus for Aging at Altitude
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ow we care for our hearing is changing. The world is more connected. We have access to more information. And with new hearing-enhancement solutions that offer greater confidence, we’re all becoming “smarter” listeners. Hearing care used to require multiple in-person visits to adjust hearing devices to sound “normal” for people. But with telehealth and advanced technology, select hearing practices are helping patients achieve better sound quality faster and more flexibly than ever. Listeners have varied lifestyles, and they want to be proactive contributors when it comes to hearing outcomes. “Some are busy professionals, others are snowbirds, and still others are home-bound,” says Chelsea Walters, BS BC-HIS, Family Hearing. “Delivery of hearing services should adapt based 24
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Bluetooth-connected hearing aids can now access apps, allowing for remote adjustments and even temporary settings that can “test” outcomes in more complex environments. (Photo: Family Hearing).
on needs, which is why we’re offering telehealth, housecalls and curbside services beyond office visits.” Modern smart listeners are more informed, tech-savvy and conscious of hearing health, Walters explains. They take responsibility for communication, even using hearing aids to connect to phones, tablets and TVs. Bluetooth-connected hearing aids
can now access apps, allowing for remote adjustments and even temporary settings that can “test” outcomes in more complex environments. “With objective measurements we can monitor prescriptions in individual ears, which removes some guesswork for patients,” says Samantha Warren, Au.D, Boulder Valley Hearing Associates. “Sometimes trying to describe what you need adjusted
While we’re becoming more intelligent listeners, the ties between social connection and hearing health is more apparent than ever. “Social connection gives humans a reason to hear,” Walters explains. Research shows that social engagement is key in sustaining cognitive function, independence, and other key aspects of health for older adults. And quarantining did us no favors. “Isolation or loneliness is cited as a major contributing risk factor for dementia and premature death,” Warren says. “Being able to communicate with people is part of our known hierarchy of needs, so not being present with people because you can’t understand or communicate with them starts to exceed the effort you want to put forth, and you avoid it.” Walters suggests that staying engaged socially is the “workout” the hearing brain needs to maintain and further enhance hearing ability. Hearing specialists can customize these workouts based on circumstances, helping patients connect to technology like Zoom, Facetime and AirPods to better communicate with friends and loved ones. “We can help listeners achieve any objective, whether it be to reduce the need to ask their spouse to repeat themselves or to stream their multi-line work calls directly into their hearing devices to optimize their professional competence,” says Walters.
ADVANCED LISTENING SOLUTIONS
The last couple of years has been a fun time to be in the world of hearing. Artificial intelligence fine-tuned by a professional now allows hearing devices to adapt more accurately in any listening DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
(Infographic courtesy: Boulder Valley Hearing Associates).
Artificial intelligence fine-tuned by a professional now allows hearing devices to adapt more accurately in any listening situation from a noisy restaurant to a quiet conversation. (Photo: Family Hearing).
situation from a noisy restaurant to a quiet conversation. For example, hearing aids are better than ever at auto adapting, essentially pulling speech out of all of the other sounds in the environment. Walters cites recharge-ability, customization and miniaturization as other significant advances. “This means comfort and style knows
no bounds, and smart phone connections empower users for better hearing settings, fall detection and remote care.” For patients with severely compromised hearing, the remote microphone has been an exciting bridge to helping restore the ability to function in groups. “With this technology we can create a little ‘cocoon’ at
your table table or clip the mic to your spouse to allow for pleasant conversations again,” Warren says. With a new sense of empowerment, collaboration, customization and empathy, it’s a bright future for the smart listener — and the professionals guiding hearing health. Walters says, “Understanding technological advances are fundamental to our mission of helping our community connect to the sounds that matter to them.”
Boulder Valley Hearing Associates 4745 Arapahoe Ave., #130 Boulder; 90 Health Park Drive, #220, Louisville; 300 Exempla Circle, #210, Lafayette, 303.443.2772, boulderhearingclinic.com. Family Hearing 3059 Walnut St., Boulder, 303.872.9757; 300 Nickel St., Suite 15, Broomfield, 303.857.5838; 2770 Arapahoe Road, Suite 126, Lafayette, 303.872.6467, familyhearingco.com
Making Money Is Easy, Keeping It Is The Hard Part! Learn more by attending Ron Vejrostek Presentation
UNDERSTANDING ANNUITIES: SCAMS OR SAFE INVESTING? Aging at Altitude Event Nov 6th • 11:30 am - Noon Boulder JCC, 6007 Oreg Ave. Boulder (corner of Arapahoe and Cherrywood) More helpful information can be viewed on the
YouTube channel called “Financially Intact”
➣ Medicare Choices and Supplements ➣ (303) 776-0867 Identity Theft ➣ Tax Filings ➣ Life Insurance ➣ Financial Planning We have a reputation for being a reliable advisor. We have over two decades of experience in the business. We’ll do our best to help you keep your money in your own pocket. We’ll help you make sound decisions for yourself and your loved ones.
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Consultation: (303) 776-0867 • 421 21st Avenue, Suite 213, Longmont, CO • www.financiallyintact.com AGING AT ALTITUDE
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HEALTHY AGING
The Irony of Aging and Eyesight
Most cataracts develop slowly, but do grow to interfere with vision. Stronger lighting and glasses help at first, but surgery is often the final solution.
By Kathleen Duff for Aging at Altitude
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ging can bring sharper insight at the same time it may decrease our eyesight. That bit of irony is noted by millions each year who experience the reality of macular degeneration and cataracts - two of the leading causes of vision problems as people grow older. Macular Degeneration affects more than 10 million Americans, according to Macular.org. The condition is caused by the deterioration of the central portion of the retina, which controls the ability to read, drive a car, recognize faces or colors and see objects in fine detail, the website explains. Cataracts are a clouding of the clear lens of the eye, per the
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Mayo Clinic. Most cataracts develop slowly, but do grow to interfere with vision, according mayoclinic.org. Stronger lighting and glasses help at first, but surgery is often the final solution. Here in Colorado, though, plenty of help is available for those whose eyesight either can be corrected through surgery or those who need help to adapt to vision loss. Macular degeneration can develop with age as well as for those with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, said Priscilla Trost, practice liaison for the Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado, which serves Longmont and Boulder. “We have many treatments available, depending on severity of condition, including: AREDS II vitamin supplement, which is specifically formulated for
eye health and as a preventative measure; laser procedures; intravitreal injections; and various surgical procedures,” Trost said. “Whereas, 25 years ago, many lost their sight due to this condition, we now have many options to slow down the degenerative process and maintain vision to a greater degree.” When it comes to cataracts, Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado doctors don’t rush into surgery. They will only recommend surgery after a patient’s sight can’t be corrected beyond 20/30 or 20/40 with glasses or if patients can’t tolerate symptoms. Medical advances have improved the surgical experience itself. ECCNC now offers “dropless” cataract surgery, which eliminates hundreds of eye-drop
applications by the patient during the standard six-week post-op period. “It can be a challenge for the patient to keep up with placing several kinds of prescription eye drops up to four times a day. With DCS, the necessary medications are administered directly during surgery, which makes the recovery process far easier on the patient. The surgery itself is a very patient-friendly and quick procedure.” The center also continues to offer traditional cataract surgery. Not all vision conditions can be corrected, of course. And that is where the Ensight Skills Center comes in. For more than 20 years, the Ensight Skills Center and Curtis Strong Center have assisted Colorado residents who have low-vision challenges. The nonprofit unites eye doctors and occupational therapists who work side-by-side to assess each client’s remaining vision and lifestyle needs. Training, education and support help create a plan to help those with vision loss work, play and enjoy life at the highest level possible. “We provide services and resources that empower independent and productive living,” explained Lynda McCullough, outreach coordinator for Ensight. Myriad devices from low- to high-tech are offered, including simple magnifying tools, widelined paper and pens that don’t bleed. Technological advances have produced talking watches and talking calculators and closed-circuit televisions that DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
enhance letter sizes and fonts. Devices are available to provide contrast in colors and raised dots for items such as ingredients and oven knobs to ensure safety. Cell phones and tablets have apps that can identify colors and read currencies. Many apps will offer read-aloud options to ask and answer questions, inform or entertain. Clients use the assistance to complete daily tasks such as applying makeup or shaving, and many find resources that allow them to continue to work on computers. Ensight serves all ages, but most of its clients are in their seventies on up. With that in mind, its occupational therapists also are well aware of other age-related conditions, such as hearing and sensory motor changes, that are impacting clients’ abilities to be independent..
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“We provide all kinds of access to identify materials and help people communicate with each other,” McCullough said. Ensight also offers training in techniques, such as eccentric viewing, where clients with macular degeneration are taught to look slightly away from a subject in order to view it peripherally with another area of the visual field, thereby, taking advantage of the best vision available. Perhaps the nonprofit’s most important role comes in offering emotional support. Those who lose their vision or part of their eyesight often experience grief as well as fear and isolation, McCullough said. “I look at our exit surveys and sometimes get tears of gratitude. Clients gain confidence, they gain hope, they are encouraged,” she said. They realize that they can do most of the things they used to do
but in new ways. It kind of opens a new world for people.” “People tell me they feel at ease when they come through the door and find people who understand what they are going through.”
ABOUT ENSIGHT
Ensight Skills Center offers low-vision service and care to Colorado residents. The nonprofit has offices in Longmont, Lafayette, Denver, Greeley and Fort Collins. The annual fundraiser, The EyeBall, is held during the Halloween season. Due to COVID-19, this year’s event will be an online silent auction and fundraiser. Details are available at Ensight’s Facebook page.
EYE CARE CENTER OF NORTHERN COLORADO The center is a practice of 12 doctors and nine
ophthalmologists who are fellowship-trained specialists in all parts of the eye and who also perform surgery at the privately owned surgery center next to the Longmont Clinic. Ensight Skills Center Located at the Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado – 300 Exempla Circle, #120, Lafayette; 1400 Dry Creek Drive, Longmont, 303.757.4500, ensightskills.org Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado 3000 Center Green Drive, Suite 250, Boulder; 1400 Dry Creek Drive, Longmont; 300 Exempla Circle, Suite 120, Lafayette, 303.772.3300, eyecaresite.com
AGING AT ALTITUDE
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HEALTHY AGING
Adding Life to Years & Years to Life Physiatry tips for victorious aging
By Pam Moore for Aging at Altitude
28
I
f you’re interested in restoring function and reducing pain without surgery, physiatry might be
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for you. According to Dr. Cliff Gronseth, M.D., a physiatrist at Spine West in Boulder, the focus of physiatry is on restoring movement and function without surgery. Regardless of your age or your goals, physiatrists can
help with a variety of issues, including back and neck pain, leg pain, weakness and numbness. Physiatrists are also wellequipped to treat sciatica, joining and muscle pain, neurologic disorders, muscle stiffness,
walking problems and carpal tunnel, to name a few. To give you the best possible care, they take a holistic approach. Dr. Gronseth says physiatrists are unique in their emphasis on “the whole, not DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
just the symptom, including biological, psychological and social issues.” They also take a team approach, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to make sure none of your needs slip through the cracks. Physiatrists are also skilled in helping you navigate the health issues that often come up as a natural part of aging.
NECK AND LOW BACK PAIN
Chronic neck and low back pain can be a result of spinal degeneration, says Dr. Gronseth. While this can be part of the normal aging process, it can also come on more suddenly as a result of trauma or cancer. Treatment may include individualized exercise and movement education, specific medications and/or physical/occupational therapy, precise spine injections, and in some cases, advanced nerve ablation in some cases.
JOINT PAIN
According to Dr. Gronseth, joint pain often shows up in the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle and foot and can be a sign of arthritis or, in some cases, is a sign of something more serious, like cancer or an autoimmune condition. To get an accurate diagnosis, you may need imaging, labs, and a thorough physical exam. Treatment varies but often includes addressing any biomechanical risk factors, medication, and exercise.
NERVE ISSUES
Nerve pain or numbness is often associated with nerve issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome, compressed spinal nerves (as in the case of sciatica), or generalized peripheral neuropathy (when you have foot pain or numbness, says Dr. Gronseth. The causes of nerve conditions can include anything from spinal degeneration to FALL 2021
autoimmune diseases to a spinal cord tumor. Neuropathy is associated with general medical conditions including diabetes, blood cancer, and many others. Diagnostic testing includes a neurological exam as well as nerve conduction studies or an MRI, while treatment varies widely depending on the root cause. For any condition, Dr. Gronseth explains, “Knowing what can accelerate degeneration is the key.” As the old adage says, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. To make the most of your golden years, Dr. Gronseth suggests taking a few simple steps. Assess. Take stock of where you’re currently at so you can troubleshoot potential future problems before they start. He says a careful biomechanic assessment will reveal myriad possible culprits, including tight muscles, focal strength deficits, and impaired balance or nerve function. Restore or compensate. Determine what can be “fixed” or what you can do to compensate for the conditions that could be setting you up for future dysfunction or disease. Execute. “Focused stretching, strengthening, and injury prevention is a marathon, not a sprint,” Dr. Gronseth tells Aging at Altitude. Your program needs to be both enjoyable and sustainable, he explains. “Very few people will do a two-hour exercise program every day until the end of life. Brushing your teeth every day to prevent decay is analogous to preventing body/joint degradation.” The secret sauce? A personalized home program that’s “short, sweet and effective.”
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HEALTHY AGING
The Benefits of Telehealth in Hospice and Palliative Care
Telehealth for hospice and palliative care is a remote patient monitoring system that is customized for each patient. (Photo: TRU Community Care).
By Barbra Cohn for Aging at Altitude
I
magine this: You’re taking care of your mother, who is on home hospice care. She is agitated and in a lot of pain. You call her hospice nurse and frantically convey the message. Instead of taking 30 minutes to document the call and drive to your house, the nurse instructs you to bring a tablet device to your mother’s bedside. She is able to see the patient and tells you to give your mother the prescribed medication. You don’t remember how, even though you previously received instructions. Not to worry. The nurse walks you through the steps of how to put the medication through an oral 30
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syringe, and you administer it in a matter of minutes.
WHAT IS TELEHEALTH?
Telehealth for hospice and palliative care is a remote patient monitoring system that is customized for each patient. Telehealth consultation is convenient, cost effective and personable. It allows patients to meet with a health care provider from any location, and family caregivers don’t have to miss work to take a loved one to an appointment. Chad Hartmann, Director of Access and Palliative Care at Tru Community Care, said, “We were the first organization in Colorado and one of only four providers across the nation to incorporate
telehealth into hospice and palliative care. When we started in December 2019, our goal was to have five to ten patients, and then Covid hit. We rolled the program out in three to four weeks, and the feedback has been outstanding,” said Harman.
HOW DOES TELEHEALTH WORK? • TRU Community Care (TRU) gets a referral from a physician about a patient and takes a survey of the patient’s interests. • A nurse consults with the patient and TRU provides the patient with a tablet that is loaded with a telecare platform. Everything is available in Spanish or English.
• The patient can either receive the tablet or the “Go Plus” app which can be downloaded on a smartphone and linked to TRU’s platform. • Based on the patient’s illness, a series of questions are sent out every morning such as “How are you feeling today?” A response will trigger other questions and TRU’s nurses will categorize the patients. Green means stable, no change. Yellow alerts the nurse that something has changed, and they can triage to see what pathways triggered the alert. A red alert signals an emergency situation.
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• Telehealth nurses have the ability to triage while looking at each patient on a day-today basis. It’s not meant to eliminate face-to-face visits, but rather to provide more timely care. Before telehealth, a patient might get a visit three times a week. Now they can get a visit every day via the platform. • TRU’s platform allows for Bluetooth pairing so that patients and/or a caregiver can take their pulse, oxygen level, blood pressure, and even weight. The information is then downloaded into the telehealth system. The nurse will make a baseline of the patient’s vital information, and get an alert if something like a weight gain due to water detention is detected.
WAVE OF THE FUTURE Hartmann said, “We’ve had
FALL 2021
The nurse will make a baseline of the patient’s vital information, and get an alert if something like a weight gain due to water detention is detected. (Photo: TRU Community Care).
more than 500 patients use the program. I haven’t had one patient who wasn’t able to use it. We had a multiple sclerosis (MS)patient who was unable to see their specialty care doctor. Their palliative nurse practitioner thought the patient’s medication
needed to be adjusted. We were able to set up a consultation with their doctor to assess the patient and he determined the patient needed to decrease the dosage. When the patient said they were forgetting to take their meds, we set up alerts on the telehealth
platform to remind them three times a day. The tablet would alarm and the pathway would say, ‘Take your medication.’ “During Covid we felt that we’ve got to be able to provide care in a different way,” Hartmann continued. “That was our vision. Now, we absolutely feel that telehealth will be the wave of the future.” TRU Community Care is open 24 hours and located at 2594 Trailridge Drive East, Lafayette, CO 80026, 303-442-0961. Founded as Boulder Hospice in 1976, Tru is a Colorado-licensed, Medicare and Medicaidcertified, nonprofit health care organization serving the DenverMetro area. TRU Community Care / TRU Hospice Care Center 1950 Mountain View Ave., Longmont, 303.604.5272, trucare.org/our-services/ tru-hospice-services
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HEALTHY AGING
Navigating Your Health Over 65 Family Features
T
aking care of your health, especially over age 65, requires an understanding of your personal needs. Proper medical care isn’t one-sizefits-all, so finding the right services and providers may take some research and thoughtful consideration as it relates to your unique circumstances. Consider these tips from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to find the right care for you:
STAY ON TOP OF YOUR HEALTH
An important part of managing your health is being aware of any current medical concerns or those that might affect you
Taking care of your health, especially over age 65, requires an understanding of your personal needs. (Photo: Getty Images).
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in the near future. That’s why it’s important to stay on top of your health care needs - like preventive services that could help identify any issues early. Arming yourself with knowledge can help you be better prepared to make decisions about the type of doctors or health care providers you need and how they work with your health insurance.
SHOP AROUND
Choosing a healthcare provider can be time consuming and confusing. Medicare.gov makes it easy to find and compare providers like hospitals, home health agencies, doctors, nursing homes and other health care services in your area that accept Medicare. On your laptop, tablet or mobile device, enter your location to search for local health care providers and services. A clean and uniform design makes it easy to review and compare providers.
KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR
It’s important to understand everything you’re considering when searching for care for yourself or a loved one. Search filters allow you to personalize your search based on what’s most important to you, like services offered, quality ratings, inspection reports and doctor affiliations. Other features include suggested next steps and checklists to help choose the best provider for you. Knowing what providers accept Medicare can also give you peace of mind.
PLAN AHEAD
Don’t put off researching your health care provider options. When you’re feeling well is typically the best time to consider your health care needs. With a clear mind, you’ll be able to thoroughly explore pros and cons about providers and facilities and get the information you need to
find the best fit for you, such as practice locations, specialties, contact information and more. You can also save your favorite health care providers to refer to later when you’re logged into your online Medicare account.
MAKE YOUR WISHES KNOWN
Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or finding care for a loved one, it’s important to share your preferences with others who are part of your care team. This might include sharing which doctors you like, what hospital you prefer or selecting a nursing home close to family and friends. Planning for medical care can seem like a challenge. By keeping tabs on your health and using available tools to research your options and compare providers, like the resources at Medicare.gov, you can create a plan that best fits your needs.
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Low vision rehabilitation: Assessments, training, and tools for remaining independent
Ensight Skills provides accredited, professional, low-vision services to enhance the lives of you and your loved ones who are struggling with vision loss. 1-800-375-5693 • www.ensightskills.org AGING AT ALTITUDE
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HEALTHY AGING
Snoring isn’t just bad for marriages but it can be an indicator of an undiagnosed health condition.
Snoring Can Indicate More Significant Health Issues By Shelley Widhalm for Aging at Altitude
S
noring isn’t just bad for marriages but it can be an indicator of an undiagnosed health condition. Or it can simply be a matter of needing to sleep in a different position. “Oftentimes snoring is ignored and labeled an irritant, or a nuisance,” said Andrew 34
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Kelson, DDS, owner of Dental Horizons in Longmont. “It’s often associated with annoyance for your spouse or bed partner.” Snoring results from an obstruction in the airway and is a sign of sleep apnea, though snoring can result from other factors, such as congestion and heavy alcohol intake. It isn’t a concern if it occurs on occasion but is if it’s unrelated to environmental conditions,
especially when it’s nightly. An ongoing struggle to intake oxygen can put a strain on the brain, heart and every other system in the body, cause oxygen starvation to the organs, and lead to high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke or dementia, Kelson said. “The other thing is if you’re not sleeping well and getting good oxygen, then you’re waking up tired,” Kelson said. “There are
Dr. Andrew Kelson DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
“Oftentimes snoring is ignored and labeled an irritant, or a nuisance.”
many, many accidents that are created when you’re tired.” A sleep test can be conducted to determine if sleep apnea is the cause of the snoring, or a visit to the dentist might offer some insight. “Your dentist can play a really key role in your overall health, not just your mouth,” Kelson said. “There are things that we can do as dentists to treat this condition that can really improve quality of life, as well as your overall health. Even though we’re focusing on the mouth, it’s all connected.” The mouth offers clues to issues with snoring, such as a narrow arch, a small mouth or an enlarged uvula, a piece of soft tissue that hangs above the throat within the airway. Snoring also can result from clenching or grinding teeth or teeth that are cracked. “Clenching and grinding is a consequence of your body trying to wake itself up and take a breath,” Kelson said. “The most stressful thing you’ll undergo is not being able to breathe at night. You’re unconscious and your body is relaxed. The airway collapses and oxygen stops, and the brain says, ‘Wait, there’s no oxygen.’ You flex the muscles to open up the airway to get oxygen that over time begins to wear teeth down.” Snoring can be treated in multiple ways, such as switching to a different sleeping position or using nasal strips or nose FALL 2021
cones to open up the airway. For more significant issues, dental appliances can be used to address tongue posture and a blocked airway from the tongue falling back in the throat. Once such appliance is the Mandibular Advancement Appliance that fits on the upper and lower teeth to move the lower jaw forward during sleep and open up the airway, but it requires continual use to be effective. “It’s the appliance 95 percent of dentists use to manage this,” Kelson said. Kelson, who uses the MAA, also uses a rarer device, the Day/ Night Appliance that is worn for 18 to 24 months to remodel the upper jaw to create more space for the tongue to reside and to open up the airway. Another option is to use lasers to tone and shape the soft tissue in the back of the throat, making the fibers more rigid and preventing vibrations. Kelson educates his patients about nasal hygiene, sleep hygiene and sleep positions to help them sleep better. For nasal hygiene, he might recommend a neti pot or nasal spray, and for sleep hygiene, going to bed at the same time every night and staying away from screens too close to bedtime. “A lot of people have some form of labored breathing,” Kelson said. “It’s kind of viewed as an annoyance to whoever is not sleeping. The person who’s snoring doesn’t feel the health conditions of snoring because it’s often a silent condition. Oftentimes snoring can be passed off just as an annoyance, but really it’s a sign of a serious health condition.” Dental Horizons 600 South Airport Road Longmont, 720.526.3146 dental-horizons.com
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HEALTHY AGING
Getting Back in the Saddle – Say Goodbye to Erectile Dysfunction By Elise Oberliesen for Aging at Altitude
I
f you or the man in your life has experienced erectile dysfunction (ED), you’re not alone. Approximately 30 million American men experience blood flow issues later in life. ED not only affects a man’s performance in the bedroom, but can also affect his partner –and the shared intimacy couples experience during lovemaking. If this sounds familiar, maybe it’s time to explore treatment options so you can get back to spicing it up under the sheets. Superior Medical Solutions is here to help you put an end to
ED so you and your partner can rekindle the romance behind closed doors. For the past 20 years, they have helped thousands of men regain their confidence in the bedroom – so couples can get back to letting the sparks fly. “With ED, a lot of couples give up on sexual intercourse,” says Kolleen Hulyk, office manager with Superior Medical Solutions, in Arvada. But it doesn’t have to be that way if you find a treatment that works for you, she added. Sex is just one way for couples to experience intimacy, she said, and it’s just as important to look for ways outside the bedroom to build on it.
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AGING AT ALTITUDE
“Intimacy means different things to different people,” Hulyk said. If you choose to work with Superior Medical Solutions, you will meet with Medical Director Aubrey Copeland, MD. He will discuss how the treatment works and answer any questions. Patients range from mid 40s to well into their 70s. “The initial office visit is $95. The doctor goes over medical history and sends the patient home with samples of autoject Trimix,” Hulyk said. The treatment is fast acting and has been around for decades, Hulyk says. Since it carries virtually no side
effects, compared to other ED medications, many patients prefer it. However, if you want oral medication, that too is an option. “A lot of people tell us ‘You saved my marriage,’” Hulyk said. “Another gentleman had tried oral medication and it worked, but when he tried Trimix, he told us ‘It blew his mind,’” she said. Don’t let reluctance stop you from enjoying the sex life you’ve been dreaming about. Superior Medical Solutions 5730 Ward Road, #201, Arvada, 303.424.8988 smscolorado.com
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HEALTHY AGING
Upgrade your morning routine to ease arthritis joint pain anti-inflammatory gel. It targets arthritis pain directly at the source to provide powerful relief. Unlike most other over-the-counter topicals, Voltaren Gel treats arthritis joint pain and doesn’t just mask it. Voltaren Gel treats joint pain by delivering medicine directly at the source. Apply Voltaren Gel in the morning and a total of four times per day to help relieve arthritis pain all day long. Voltaren Gel is available at CVS stores nationwide.
FUEL UP
For the more than 30 million Americans with osteoarthritis, waking up with soreness or stiffness in the joints can make mornings particularly difficult.
(BPT) - The sun rises, you flutter your eyes open and take a deep breath. It’s time to start the day, but before you even get out of bed, you know it’s going to be a tough one. For the more than 30 million Americans with osteoarthritis, waking up with soreness or stiffness in the joints can make mornings particularly difficult. “After a night of inactivity due to sleep, people with osteoarthritis may find that their joints tend to feel stiff when they wake up,” explained rheumatologist Dr. Micah Yu. “While mornings can be difficult, they also can be an opportunity to start your morning routine, soothe aches and pains and set yourself up for a productive day.” According to a recent study conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Voltaren, 59% of Americans with FALL 2021
osteoarthritis said their arthritis pain makes it difficult to get out of bed in the morning, and 79% said it negatively affects them three or more days a week. Dr. Yu wants to help people who experience arthritis symptoms feel their best. Here are his recommendations for a pain-relieving morning routine:
WAKE UP WELL
While still in bed, do a body scan and note any areas of pain. Start at the top of your head and mentally scan down for tension and stiffness. Doing gentle stretches in bed can help awaken the mind and body. For example, open and close your jaw, turn your head slowly from side to side and circle your wrists. For persistent arthritis pain, some people find using a heated blanket or heated mattress pad for 10 to 20 minutes in the morning to be
soothing.
TAKE A WARM SHOWER
Heat and moisture work together to effectively soothe arthritis pain, so start your day with a shower. Keep the water warm to help loosen muscles and joints, but not too hot since it may irritate the skin. Personal trainer and fitness expert Pete McCall suggests doing stretches while the warm water soothes muscles, such as shoulder rolls and head tilts. Avoid any stretches that require balancing and use a shower chair or hand grips to steady yourself if necessary.
APPLY TOPICALS
An effective option for treating arthritis is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel, the first prescription-strength, over-the-counter nonsteroidal
A good breakfast fuels the body with satisfying nutrients. Joints need to stay lubricated, so start with a glass of water or sip on some green tea. Opt for a breakfast that features foods that fight inflammation and boost the immune system, such as cherries, oranges, broccoli, low-fat dairy products and whole grains like oatmeal.
GET MOVING
Motion is like lotion for your muscles and joints, and light exercise in the morning can help reduce joint pain and kickstart the day. This could be taking a virtual yoga class or taking a walk through your neighborhood. Exercising increases blood flow, strengthens muscles and helps you maintain a healthy weight - all things that help with arthritis pain. If you’re not sure which exercises are appropriate for you, speak with your doctor. Even small amounts of movement matter, so start with just 5 or 10 minutes of exercise. “Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are things you can do to help reduce pain in your joints,” says Yu. “The morning is the optimal time to take steps that help you feel your best all day long.” AGING AT ALTITUDE
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HEALTHY AGING
Flu Season is Here: What You Need to Know
As the world continues to gradually make progress in fighting COVID-19, it’s important to remember another public health threat lurking - the flu.
(BPT) - After more than 18 months of taking precautions to help stop the spread of COVID-19, the world is slowly reopening – families and friends are reuniting, workers are heading back into the office and children are going back into school. But as the world continues to gradually make progress in fighting COVID-19, it’s important to remember another public health threat lurking – the flu. Thanks to mask mandates, flu vaccines and social distancing, last year’s flu season saw 38
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historically low case numbers. The timing of flu is difficult to predict and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season. Reduced population immunity due to lack of flu virus activity since March 2020 could result in an early and possibly severe flu season. The flu will come back this year, but it is unknown how bad cases will be, how immune systems will react and how COVID-19 and the flu could continue to interact. That’s why everyone needs to do their part and take the necessary steps
to help protect themselves and those around them from the flu.
THE POTENTIAL RISKS OF THE FLU DURING COVID-19
During a global pandemic, it can be easy to forget about something like the seasonal flu. But the flu can have a severe impact, causing up to 710,000 hospitalizations and 52,000 deaths in America between 2010 and 2020.6 And that could worsen this year – as it’s possible to have both COVID-19 and the flu at the same time.
CAN YOU GET YOUR FLU VACCINE WITH OTHER VACCINES, LIKE COVID-19? In addition to getting vaccinated against COVID-19, flu shots are needed each year to help protect you and your loved ones from the flu and its complications. According to the CDC, vaccines, like the annual flu shot, can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine, if you are eligible. Please talk to your healthcare provider about what options are right for you. DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
WHO NEEDS TO GET VACCINATED
The simple answer? Every eligible American 6 months of age and older, with rare exception, should get their flu shot. Anyone can get the flu – there are up to 41,000,000 cases in the U.S. each year. And certain people are at an increased risk for flu-related complications, including adults 50 years of age and older, young children 6 months and older, pregnant women and people living with chronic health conditions. These complications can lead to increased hospitalizations and sometimes even death. Since the flu is a respiratory disease, it is contagious and transmitted from person to person. While not everyone will develop severe symptoms from the flu, it is possible to transmit the flu to people who are at an increased risk of serious illness and flu-related complications.
FALL 2021
That’s why it’s important for members of the community to do their part to help protect themselves and their neighbors by getting the flu shot.
WHERE TO GET A FLU SHOT
Do you usually get your flu shot at your workplace? You’re not alone. Many businesses across the United States offer their employees the flu shot on site to help protect employees and help prevent the flu from spreading around the workplace. With some offices still operating remotely, many Americans are seeking information on where they can get their flu shot this year. Help is available. There are flu shots offered at a variety of pharmacies, doctor’s offices and clinics across the country. If you need help in finding a location near you, you can visit FluShotFridays.com where you’ll be directed for more information.
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No-Bake Energy Bites
Prep time: 20 minutes, Yield: 8 energy bites 1/3 cup raw almonds 1/3 cup walnuts 1/2 cup pitted dates 1-1/2 teaspoons fresh orange juice or lemon juice 1 pinch sea salt 8 seedless California grapes 1/3 cup chia or hemp seeds In bowl of food processor, pulse almonds and walnuts 5 to 6 times to coarsely chop. Add dates and process until mixture is finely chopped. Add juice and process until just combined; transfer mixture to small plate. Dry grapes. Pack 1 tablespoon date mixture around each grape, completely covering to seal. Repeat with remaining grapes and date mixture. Roll balls in seeds to coat. Store in covered container in refrigerator up to three days. Nutritional information per energy bite: 120 calories; 3 g protein; 12 g carbohydrates; 7 g fat (53% calories from fat); 0.5 g saturated fat (4% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 20 mg sodium; 3 g fiber.
compounds known as polyphenols, which help promote antioxidant activity and influence biological processes that support he importance of health and overall health. Grapes of all colors – red, wellness is top of mind for many people. There are many contributing green and black – are natural sources of polyphenols. factors to wellness such as diet, physical Fresh grapes are refreshing by the activity, social engagement and genetics. All are important, but a first step to wellness handful, but they also lend a tasty burst of flavor to a wide range of recipes you can is choosing healthy foods to fuel the body every day, ideally foods that support health enjoy any time of day. This Heart Smart Smoothie is a deliciously healthy way to in multiple ways. start the day; pairing grapes with nuts and Consider grapes: they are convenient, seeds in No-Bake Energy Bites delivers a healthy, hydrating and provide energy to hearty snack to enjoy midday, after school help support healthy and active lifestyles. or following a workout; and Quinoa, Eating grapes is also linked to beneficial impacts on the health of specific body parts Cauliflower and Grape Salad is perfect at and systems, including the heart, brain, skin any mealtime for a powerful combo of both taste and health. and colon. Find more nutritious recipes on the next Most of grapes’ health benefits are page and at GrapesFromCalifornia.com. attributed to the presence of natural plant Family Features
T
Shop Local. Buy Local. There are many ways to strengthen our community, and one easy way is buying local. Whether it’s a restaurant, boutique, home and garden store, apparel or shoes, auto dealer or other shopping destination, buying local has many benefits, and building a stronger community is only one of them. Our local businesses give our community character, create vibrancy and bring us unique experiences.
WE INVITE YOU TO THINK, SHOP AND BUY LOCAL. START YOUR SHOPPING ADVENTURE BY SUPPORTING THE LOCAL BUSINESSES ADVERTISING IN YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPERS!
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FALL 2021
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Quinoa, Cauliflower and Grape Salad
Prep time: 15 minutes, Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 8 1 cup white quinoa 1 small head cauliflower, trimmed and cut into small florets 1 1/4 cups red California grapes, halved 3 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced 2 ripe avocados, diced 1/3 inch
Heart Smart Grape and Peanut Butter Smoothie
Dressing: 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon honey 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crumbled 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep time: 5 minutes, Servings: 1
1 cup red California grapes, chilled 2/3 cup unsweetened almond milk, chilled 1/2 cup ice cubes 1/2 small banana 1 tablespoon peanut butter 1 tablespoon ground flax seed 2 teaspoons cacao powder
Cook quinoa according to package directions and drain on two layers of paper towels. Transfer to mixing bowl. Add cauliflower, grapes, scallions and avocado pieces. To make dressing: In small bowl, whisk vinegar, lime juice, honey, cumin, oregano and salt until blended. Gradually whisk in oil. Drizzle dressing over quinoa mixture and toss gently. Season with pepper, to taste.
In blender on high speed, blend grapes, almond milk, ice, banana, peanut butter, flax seed and cacao powder until smooth. Nutritional information per serving: 350 calories; 8 g protein; 53 g carbohydrates; 14 g fat (36% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 220 mg sodium; 7 g fiber.
Research suggests regularly eating grapes as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle may contribute to improved health outcomes, including brain health. In a study of people with early memory decline
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Nutritional information per serving: 260 calories; 5 g protein; 27 g carbohydrates; 16 g fat (55% calories from fat); 2 g saturated fat (7% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 170 mg sodium; 6 g fiber.
Grapes and a Healthy Brain
published in “Experimental Gerontology,” subjects were either fed whole grape powder equivalent to just 2 1/4 cups of grapes per day or a placebo powder. The results showed consuming grapes preserved healthy metabolic activity in
regions of the brain associated with early Alzheimer’s disease, where metabolic decline takes hold. Subjects who didn’t consume grapes exhibited significant metabolic decline in these critical regions.
Additionally, those consuming the grape-enriched diet showed beneficial changes in regional brain metabolism that correlated to improvements in attention and working memory performance.
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ACTIVE LIVING
Living Life to Its Fullest
Local programs provide support for an active and healthy lifestyle By Adam Goldstein for Aging at Altitude
B
oulder County boasts a very specific kind of senior population. According to Kimberly Krusinski, a registered nurse, board-certified patient advocate and founder of the Erie-based Heartology Patient Advocacy group, the aging population in and around Boulder are active, engaged and committed to living their lives to the fullest. These individuals are eager to build connections, explore their natural surroundings and take an involved role in their communities. “We have a special aging population here in Boulder County. They want to ski in the winter. They want to ride their bikes in the mountains,” Krusinski said. “We serve the people who want to travel to see their family and friends, who want to hike Chautauqua every day, who want to maintain the highest level of activity that they can.” Those seniors have plenty of local programs and services at their disposal to fulfill that kind of lifestyle. From municipal organizations and county services to individual healthcare advocates and university-level labs specializing in clinical trials, Boulder County offers a wealth of resources to seniors designed to help them support active living and healthy aging. “We make a robust effort to have a presence throughout the county. We have offices in Boulder, Longmont and in the mountain communities, Allenspark and Nederland,” FALL 2021
A senior couple hikes at the Chautauqua Park Hiking area. (Photo: Page Light Studios/Shutterstock).
said Carol Cross, manager with the Boulder County Area Agency on Aging (bouldercounty.org/ departments/communityservices/area-agency-aging). Boulder’s agency is one of a network of hundreds across the country, and specifically focuses on delivering, funding and advocating for services that promote well-being, independence and dignity for older adults, people with disabilities, family caregivers and veterans in Boulder County. “We want to focus on the needs of Boulder County residents, and we do that through a continuum of care and services.” The Boulder AAA offers a wide array of services and resources, both independently and through community
partners like local senior centers and in-home service agencies. Like other Area Agencies on Aging mandated through the federal government, the Boulder organization seeks to meet the specific needs of the community, one where older residents play a huge role. According to the agency, by 2030, adults 65 and over are expected to comprise 20 percent of the population of Boulder County. Cross said that the needs of the community have changed since the onset of COVID-19, that the agency has focused on helping seniors deal with social isolation and other challenges. The agency has addressed needs ranging from wellness to internet access. “We have funds that are
directly aimed at evidence-based programs that help support wellness. We were able to start and have funded in the past our internal wellness programs,” she said. “We’ve definitely evolved over time. We don’t want to replicate services. We focus on the resources that are available and how we can fill in the gaps that exist.” In her role at Heartology Patient Advocacy (heartologypatientadvocacy. com), Kimberly Krusinski also works to fill in the gaps for seniors, but specifically as they relate to health care. A registered nurse with more than 20 years of experience, Krusinski founded Heartology in April as a resource for seniors looking to take an active role in their healthcare AGING AT ALTITUDE
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experience. Heartology focuses on patient advocacy, PERA health care needs and medical billing review, and connects clients with a clear, effective approach to receiving and establishing treatment. “Our goal is to help our clients to clarify their own health care goals and needs. We help support them and advocate for them to make those needs known, and make sure their care is directed in that way,” Krusinski said. “We help keep the focus on what patients want and empower them. That’s one of the first things we do, is to determine what they want their life to look like.” Similarly, Mary Hansen seeks to clarify the potentially confusing world of Medicare for her clients through her advocacy service, Medicare 101 (agingataltitude.com). For over a decade, Hansen has worked
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with Medicare patients to ensure that they don’t get snagged up in red tape or unnecessary fees and penalties. “My job is to help people understand Medicare, and to take the plethora of options that are available and simplify that, based on their specific doctors and medications,” Hansen said. “The plans change from year to year. We do a review to make sure we’re still on the best plan … A lot of health insurance agents just dabble in the world of Medicare. I’ve solely specialized in that world; that’s all I do.” Seniors in Boulder County also have options to access critical care in different settings. The crew at Alpine Physical Therapy/Alpine PT Home Care, for example, offer options for patients who are homebound and have specific medical needs. (alpinepthomecare.com) “We can do physical therapy
in the home with patients who are homebound, and once they’re done and strong enough, they can go to our outpatient physical therapy. It’s a continuum of care,” said Mike Mooradian, Alpine administrator. “We help them get mobile. It gets them to a point where they’re not confined.” Similarly, Curantis Health (curantishealth.com) offers patients at-home services with a specific focus on memory loss issues like Alzheimer’s and dementia. According to Steven Lee, Curantis CEO and Founder, the organization aims to address the isolation and depression issues that stem from these diseases. Curantis offers companion care, personal care and memory care, approaches that cater to different severities and different issues. “It goes back to the isolation issue. If you’re alone, you look forward to seeing that caregiver;
it’s a game changer. As we age, we start to lose friends … We’ve got people who have outlived their family and friends. We want to fill that void. We want to understand who you are and how we can help you,” Lee said. “It’s doing away with isolation. If you’re alone, everything goes to pot. You don’t take your meds right, the house doesn’t get cleaned. We feel like we’re the light … We want to be there for the patient and the family.” Curantis’ two divisions cater to private patients and specifically to veterans who are experiencing homelessness. According to Lee, the commitment to care and to offering access to hope, joy and engagement is consistent across all of the organization’s services. “We get personal information about the patient, and all of our caregivers are trained. Every time a patient will start to ask questions, our people are trained
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to ask questions about their life,” he said. “That triggers memories that they can find. We train our people to look for little spurts of light. How do we make these diseases livable for people?” As Lee’s approach proves, maintaining an active and engaged lifestyle isn’t only about keeping physically fit. Mental Health Partners (mhpcolorado.org) offers patients treatment for a wide array of mental and emotional issues. As their mission statement points out, MHP “provides immediate access to expert mental health and substance use care so people can enjoy healthy and fulfilling lives.” What’s more, the aging population in Boulder County has access to some of the most cutting-edge facilities and technology housed at the University of Colorado. Specifically, CU’s Physiology Lab runs consistent lifestyle and pharmacological-focused clinical trials that are designed to improve quality of life for seniors (colorado.edu/iphy/research/ integrative-physiology-aginglaboratory). Taken together, all of these resources offer critical tools for Boulder’s unique and active senior population, a group that’s not content to watch the world pass by.
Fast
Simple
Local
Alpine Physical Therapy 1310 Baker St., Longmont, 303.772.2255; 1566 Vista View Drive, Longmont, 720.266.7100, alpinephysicaltherapy longmont.com Boulder County Area Agency on Aging 3482 Broadway, Boulder 303.441.3570, bouldercounty.org/ departments/communityservices/area-agency-aging Heartology Patient Advocacy Erie, 720.583.4493, heartologypatientadvocacy.com Mary Hansen, Medicare Solutions 303.548.2841 agingataltitude.com Mental Health Partners Locations in Boulder, Broomfield, Lafayette and Longmont, 303.443.8500 mhpcolorado.org. 24/7 Crisis Line: 1.844.493.8255. University of Colorado Physiology Lab, University of Colorado Boulder, Ramaley W106, 303.735.6410, colorado.edu/iphy/research/ integrative-physiologyaging-laboratory
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ACTIVE LIVING
Calming Computer Jitters Help for Seniors Who Aren’t Tech-Savvy
A recent study found older adults boosted technology purchases during the pandemic, but nearly 37% admitted they weren’t confident about using these technologies. (Photo by Andras Vas/Unsplash)
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By Judith Graham Kaiser Health News (TNS)
S
ix months ago, Cindy Sanders, 68, bought a computer so she could learn how to email and have Zoom chats with her greatgrandchildren. It’s still sitting in a box, unopened. “I didn’t know how to set it up or how to get help,” said Sanders, who has been extremely careful during the coronavirus pandemic. Like Sanders, millions of older adults are newly motivated to get online and participate in digital offerings after being shut inside, hoping to avoid the virus, for more than a year. But many need assistance and aren’t sure where to get it. A recent survey from AARP, conducted in September and October, highlights the quandary. It found that older adults boosted technology purchases during
the pandemic but more than half (54%) said they needed a better grasp of the devices they’d acquired. Nearly 4 in 10 people (37%) admitted they weren’t confident about using these technologies. Sanders, a retired hospital operating room attendant, is among them. “Computers put the fear in me,” she told me, “but this pandemic, it’s made me realize I have to make a change and get over that.” With her daughter’s help, Sanders plans to turn on her new computer and figure out how to use it by consulting materials from Generations on Line. Founded in 1999, the Philadelphia organization specializes in teaching older adults about digital devices and navigating the internet. Sanders recently discovered it through a local publication for seniors. Before the pandemic, Generations on Line provided free in-person training sessions at senior centers, public housing complexes, libraries and retirement centers. When those programs shut down, it created an online curriculum for smartphones and tablets (www. generationsonline.org/apps) and new tutorials on Zoom and telehealth as well as a “family coaching kit” to help older adults with technology. All are free and available to people across the country. Demand for Generations on Line’s services rose tenfold during the pandemic as many older adults became dangerously isolated and cut off from needed services. Those who had digital devices and knew how to use them could do all kinds of activities DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
online: connect with family and friends, shop for groceries, order prescriptions, take classes, participate in telehealth sessions and make appointments to get covid vaccines. Those without were often at a loss — with potentially serious consequences. “I have never described my work as a matter of life or death before,” said Angela Siefer, executive director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, an advocacy group for expanding broadband access. “But that’s what happened during the pandemic, especially when it came to vaccines.” Other organizations specializing in digital literacy for older adults are similarly seeing a surge of interest. Cyber-Seniors, which pairs older adults with high school or college students who serve as technology mentors, has trained more than 10,000 seniors since April 2020 — three times the average of the past several years. (Services are free and grants and partnerships with government agencies and nonprofit organizations supply funding, as is true for several of the organizations discussed here.) Older adults using digital devices for the first time can call 1-844-217-3057 and be coached over the phone until they’re comfortable pursuing online training. “A lot of organizations are giving out tablets to seniors, which is fantastic, but they don’t even know the basics, and that’s where we come in,” said Brenda Rusnak, Cyber-Seniors’ managing director. One-on-one coaching is also available. Lyla Panichas, 78, who lives in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, got an iPad from Rhode Island’s digiAGE program three months ago — among many local technology programs for older adults started during the pandemic. She is getting help from the University of Rhode Island’s Cyber-Seniors program, which plans to offer FALL 2021
digital training to 200 digiAGE participants in communities hardest hit by COVID-19 by the end of this year. “The first time my tutor called me, I mean, the kids rattle things off so fast. I said, Wait a minute. You have a little old lady here. Let me keep up with you,” Panichas said. “I couldn’t keep up and I ended up crying.” Panichas persisted, however, and when her tutor called again the next week she began “being able to grasp things.” Now, she plays games online, streams movies and has Zoom get-togethers with her son, in Arizona, and her sister, in Virginia. “It kind of lifted my fears of being isolated,” she told me. OATS (Older Adults Technology Services) is set to expand the reach of its digital literacy programs significantly after a recent affiliation with AARP. It runs a national hotline for people seeking technical support, 1-920-666-1959, and operates Senior Planet technology training centers in six cities (New York; Denver; Rockville, Maryland; Plattsburgh, New York; San Antonio, Texas; and Palo Alto, California). All in-person classes converted to digital programming once the pandemic closed down much of the country. Germaine St. John, 86, a former mayor of Laramie, Wyoming, found an online community of seniors and made dear friends after signing up with Senior Planet Colorado during the pandemic. “I have a great support system here in Laramie, but I was very cautious about going out because I was in the over-80 group,” she told me. “I don’t know what I would have done without these activities.” Older adults anywhere in the country can take Senior Planet virtual classes for free. (A weekly schedule is available at seniorplanet.org/get-involved/ online.) Through its AARP
partnership, OATS is offering another set of popular classes at AARP’s Virtual Community Center. Tens of thousands of older adults now participate. Aging Connected (agingconnected.org), another new OATS initiative, is focusing on bringing 1 million older adults online by the end of 2022. An immediate priority is to educate older adults about the government’s new $3.2 billion Emergency Broadband Benefit for low-income individuals, which was funded by a coronavirus relief package and became available last month. That short-term program provides $50 monthly discounts on high-speed internet services and a one-time discount of up to $100 for the purchase of a computer or tablet. But the benefit isn’t automatic. People must apply to get funding. “We are calling on anybody over the age of 50 to try the internet and learn what the value can be,” said Thomas Kamber, OATS’ executive director. Nearly 22 million seniors don’t have access to high-speed internet services, largely because these services are unaffordable or unavailable, according to a January report co-sponsored by OATS and the Humana Foundation, its Aging Connected partner. Other new ventures are also helping older adults with technology. Candoo Tech, which launched in February 2019, works with seniors directly in 32 states as well as organizations such as libraries, senior centers and retirement centers. For various fees, Candoo Tech provides technology training by phone or virtually, as-needed support from “tech concierges,” advice about what technology to buy and help preparing devices for out-of-the-box use. “You can give an older adult a device, access to the internet and amazing content, but if they
don’t have someone showing them what to do, it’s going to sit there unused,” said Liz Hamburg, Candoo’s president and chief executive. GetSetUp’s model relies on older adults to teach skills to their peers in small, interactive classes. It started in February 2020 with a focus on tech training, realizing that “fear of technology” was preventing older adults from exploring “a whole world of experiences online,” said Neil Dsouza, founder and chief executive. For older adults who’ve never used digital devices, retired teachers serve as tech counselors over the phone. “Someone can call in [1-888-559-1614] and we’ll walk them through the whole process of downloading an app, usually Zoom, and taking our classes,” Dsouza said. GetSetUp is offering about 80 hours of virtual technology instruction each week. For more information about tech training for older adults in your area, contact your local library, senior center, department on aging or Area Agency on Aging. Also, each state has a National Assistive Technology Act training center for older adults and people with disabilities. These centers let people borrow devices and offer advice about financial assistance. Some started collecting and distributing used smartphones, tablets and computers during the pandemic. For information about a program in your area, go to www.at3center.net. KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation. AGING AT ALTITUDE
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ACTIVE LIVING
Products and supplements support active aging for Colorado’s seniors
By Emily Kemme for Aging at Altitude
I
t’s often taken for granted that the natural aging process is unstoppable, potentially robbing us of the ability to enjoy life fully. But with products and supplements available in today’s marketplace, healthy, active living is within reach at any age.
CAREPENGUIN: MONITOR YOUR ELDERLY LOVED ONES BY OBSERVING THEIR HOT WATER USE
What do penguins have to do with keeping an eye on your elderly loved ones? As it turns out, quite a lot. Before graduating from the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado with a marketing degree, Marlo Vernon explored an idea in her entrepreneurship class. Her grandma had fallen recently, and the caregiver located Vernon’s 48
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mom on Facebook to let the family know what had happened. Vernon was certain there had to be an easier way to keep an eye on grandma. Her dad, Todd Vernon, had been tinkering with IoT devices – those internet of things products which make ordinary objects “smart” by connecting wirelessly to the internet through a WiFi network. Marlo wanted a method of non-invasively monitoring older adults living alone, and landed on the idea of water use. “The average older adult uses water seven times a day — that’s seven touchpoint times each day that you can know your elderly loved one is okay,” she said. From there, CarePenguin was born. Todd Vernon designed the CarePenguin sensor for easy installation on hot water heaters. The sensor detects warm water use, from hand-washing, rinsing dishes or just a splash of water on a dog’s kibble. One sensor detects
activity anywhere in the house when a faucet is turned on. Linked to a smart phone app, push notifications are set up manually, using chunks of time when you expect your loved one to be active during the day. CarePenguin watches for activity during those time blocks; if none is detected, it sends alerts to phones to check in. The Vernons have plans to integrate the product with other smart home appliances, generating touch points for health and well-being. Marlo graduated in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Everyone was isolated from their loved ones so the timing was perfect for this technology,” she said.
And the penguin? As CarePenguin’s website points out: “Not all heroes wear capes.” CarePenguin is available on the company website; find it soon at Best Buy.
GRESKA’S CARBON-60: CLEAN, BIO-AVAILABLE CARBON-60 SUPPORTS HEALTH AND HUMAN PERFORMANCE
As a carbon aerospace materials engineer, Bob Greska studied carbon for over 40 years. In 2012 he discovered how to produce clean Carbon-60. After three years tweaking the process to scale up for commercial supplement sales, Greska quit the aerospace business to work on health products for humans.
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Starting with materials containing carbon, the company’s food grade C-60 is produced without contaminants or toxic solvents. As humans age, free radicals produced by diseased cells or absorbed by the body aren’t eliminated as efficiently, and the body retains a higher quantity than is healthy. Radicals are missing an electron, making them unstable: they can attack
healthy cells, taking electrons and creating oxidative stress and cell damage. Central nervous system diseases, autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, rheumatoid arthritis or cancer can be a result. Free radicals can also cause changes in appearance, including wrinkles and gray hair. The C-60 molecule, part of the fullerene family, is formed by 60 carbon atoms. First discovered in 1985, it’s commonly used in nanotechnology and electronics. Because it’s nano-sized, it can enter cell mitochondria where radicals are produced; its biological antioxidant capabilities allow it to share an electron with free radicals and reduce cell damage. Taken orally as a dietary supplement, Greska said that after 4 days, 95% of people report they have more energy; in 8 to 10 days nearly 80% report clarity of mind. People think faster, and look and
feel younger. The C-60 molecules are carried by odorless and tasteless highly filtered organic sunflower oil produced without solvents. A topical roll-on version is also available — use on age spots, chronic joint or peripheral nerve pain. Greska said there are benefits to taking C-60 at any age. “We are carbon-based beings. It’s the basis of life. The food we eat contains carbon and C-60 is clean concentrated carbon that neutralizes toxins, similar to how carbon purifies water.” Find Greska’s Carbon-60 on their website. Retails for $50/ month.
MAGNOLIA ROAD CANNABIS CO. CANNABIS TO SUIT YOUR AGE AND LIFESTYLE In business since 2013, Magnolia Road offers a range of cannabis choices in Boulder and Trinidad,
including flowers, edibles, concentrates and topicals. Options for senior health include Stratos (pharmaceutical grade tablet); Escape Artists (Full Spectrum or 1:1 Lavender relief cream); Alivia (THC or CBD tinctures); Sweet Grass Kitchen Cannabutter stick; and Teajuana (coffee and tea products). Magnolia Road’s expert budtenders help guide customers on a cannabis journey to suit your age and lifestyle. CarePenguin carepenguin.com Greska’s Carbon-60 720.600.6040, c-60.com Magnolia Road Cannabis Co. 1750 30th St., Boulder 720.502.4867 magnoliaroadcc.com
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ACTIVE LIVING
Adapting to the Times
YMCA of Northern Colorado tailors programs to the needs of the community By Linda Thorsen Bond for Aging at Altitude
T
he secret to the success of YMCA of Northern Colorado is adaptability. The Y has adapted to the changing times, to the requirements of the communities and to the evolving needs of the population. Across Boulder County and Northern Colorado’s YMCA there are classes that accommodate people with a wide variety of abilities while they are exercising. A good example is the classes that have two instructors – one leading the whole class and one demonstrating accommodations that make it possible for people of different abilities to do the exercises. Andra Coberly Webster, Executive Director of Communications, said, “The Y recognizes the need for wellness for older adults. Because we live in Colorado, much of our population is already fit, outdoorsy and able to get around easily. Many of our regular exercise classes have plenty of seniors in them. But we also have classes that are specific to older adults and are adaptive to give people of varying abilities a workout.” Webster said the Better Balance class is a research-based model endorsed by the Center for Disease Control, teaching older adults balance skills and good body alignment by using coordinated and flowing movements. “You will feel stronger, have better balance, enjoy greater flexibility and feel more confident after completing this Tai Chi-inspired program,” she said. “Fall prevention is important to us, and this class 50
AGING AT ALTITUDE
focuses on helping improve balance. That is important for people who are recovering from surgery or need extra support and strengthening.” Many older adults find that their balance, flexibility and endurance have diminished over time. A regular exercise class can help these issues, and many older adults are amazed at the improvement in core strength and endurance they experience after just a few classes. Plus, this is a great way to meet new friends. Mary Baughman, senior program director of health and fitness, said two of the most popular classes are the SilverSneakers Cardio Circuit and the SilverSneakers Classic. “In all of our branches, people like these classes because they get more cardio, resistance, strength and flexibility in them. It’s a good workout, but there’s always, always a chair next to you so you can sit and take a break. The ability to offer modifications, that’s key to the whole thing.” Webster said wonderful progress can be made by people with Parkinson’s in a variety of classes. In Longmont, there is Power Punch Parkinson’s held in a boxing area in partnership with La Familia. Pedaling for Parkinson’s is on the schedule three times a week at the Arapahoe branch in Boulder. She said, “it is a great class with different intensities and really inspiring to watch. Some people have found that their Parkinson’s symptoms are reduced up to 35 percent with regular attendance of this class.” Baughman said, “This totally represents what the Y is all about. We are helping people
Pedaling for Parkinson’s at the Arapahoe YMCA in Lafayette. (Photo: YMCA of Northern Colorado)
Water fitness class at the Ed & Ruth Lehman YMCA in Longmont. (Photo: YMCA of Northern Colorado)
who might have fallen into the void and found there are not a lot of services for them. When they exercise with Parkinson’s they may overcome some of their deficits. Pedaling for Parkinson’s helps their voice and brain as they do patterns of movements while cycling. It all works specifically to slow the onset of symptoms. Their partners can come as well.” An important part of the YMCA is the social aspect. “We have plenty of options to help people stay active, get fit and find social connections,” Webster said. “The community aspect of
what we do is really important. The YMCA are community spaces especially for folks who don’t have a lot of community or connections. That can even include getting together for coffee in the lobby. The key to healthy living is for people to have lots of resources and programs. They are great places for seniors to come together and socialize with each other and lead active lives.” YMCA of Northern Colorado Multiple Locations; 2800 Dagny Way, Lafayette, 303.664.5455, ymcanoco.org DAILY CAMERA, TIMES CALL
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