2023 Successful Aging Expo

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Darian Armer, Gabe Bodner, Linda Thorsen Bond, Emma Castleberry, Adam Goldstein, Sarah Huber, Julie Kailus, Wendy McMillan, John Lehndorff

EDITOR / DESIGNER Misty Kaiser

MARKETING & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Jill Stravolemos

Successful Aging is an advertising feature of the Boulder Daily Camera, Broomfield Enterprise and Colorado Hometown Weekly and Longmont Times-Call.

©2023 Prairie Mountain Media.

STRENGTHENING THE HEART — IN MANY WAYS Find Friendship & Fitness At the Y

AT THE Y, we work to inspire a love of movement while also fostering meaningful relationships for older adults. Yes, the Y is where friendship and fitness meet. We provide exercise opportunities for a wide range of needs, nurture connections and create welcoming communities for people of all ages.

• Clubs and events

• Active older adults group exercise classes

• SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit and Renew Active memberships

• Programs developed for people with Parkinson’s, cancer, arthritis and balance challenges

• Aquatics classes and programs

• Virtual fitness classes

• Pickleball

• Volunteer opportunities

• Locations in Boulder, Lafayette, Longmont and beyond.

BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE:

Signs, Symptoms and Prevention

By Darian Armer

As bodies age it can suddenly feel like you’re literally falling apart. Don’t fear! We asked the professionals and there are signs and symptoms to look for as you age, as well as preventative measures you can take to help you keep enjoying life like you always have. Professionals tell us how to protect our vision, dental, hearing and skin as we age

CARING FOR YOUR SKIN

You’ve probably heard that skin is the largest organ of the body, so it’s no wonder how important it is to take good care of it. Dr. Sarah M. Bair of Crossroads Dermatology says to watch for new or changing spots, particularly if its bleeding or changing rapidly. In that case you should see your dermatologist. A regular skin cancer screening, especially for people who have had significant sun exposure, is a great way to prevent and detect skin cancer.

“At a skin cancer screening examination, we can detect actinic keratoses (which are pre-cancerous) and treat them. Untreated, these can transform to squamous cell carcinoma and can necessitate more aggressive therapy. Detecting a skin cancer early typically means it is smaller and the scar from removal is also smaller, so catching these earlier can lead to better cosmetic outcomes,” says

Bair

While avoiding skin cancer in the first place is the ideal situation, Bair says it’s never too late to start protecting your skin.

“Unfortunately, we can’t go back in time and undo damage we did in our youth, but we can protect against further damage Wearing sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily, reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours, avoiding midday sun exposure (10 a.m - 2 p.m.) and wearing hats and covering with clothing all help to minimize further damage to our skin Seeing your dermatologist for any new or concerning skin lesions as soon as they appear can help detect problems sooner,” she says “I often see patients who are getting multiple skin cancers every year who start doing a better

job with sun protection and the rate of further cancer development slows dramatically”

Bair encourages people to enjoy the beautiful and sunny state we live in but to make sure you’re protecting your skin from damaging UV rays.

CARING FOR YOUR VISION

In general, aging is the most common cause of cataracts. Dr. Diane T Siegel, Comprehensive Ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon at Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado, says that after around age 40 normal proteins in the lens start to break down and the lens becomes cloudy.

Signs that you may need to seek intervention with cataracts include blurry vision, seeing double, light sensitivity, seeing bright

colors as faded and trouble seeing well at night.

While there are other reasons for cataracts to form, including diabetes and eye injury, Dr Siegel says that being diagnosed with cataracts doesn’t always mean surgery is immediately required.

She says in the early stages, cataracts may not change vision significantly and minor changes may be improved with prescription glasses If you do decide to wait on cataract surgery you can make the most of your vision with a few simple tools, including brighter lighting in the home, polarized sunglasses and a widebrimmed hat to reduce glare

“If cataracts aren’t disrupting your life, you can probably wait and have surgery until they really start to bother you. Cataract

Dr. Sarah Bair administers a skin check. (Photo/Flatiron Pro Media)

surgery is only recommended when the outcome is expected to improve vision, unless the cataracts obscure treatments for other eye diseases,” she says

Dr Siegel says the best way to slow down the progression of cataracts it to protect your eyes from sunlight by wearing sunglasses that help block UV rays.

CARING FOR YOUR HEARING

Dr. Nicole Lilly and Dr. Shawna Beasley of Hearing Healthcare Centers say that individuals with hearing loss usually feel that they can hear but can’t understand.

“Most people with hearing loss have more difficulty hearing in background noise including social gatherings, restaurants, and small groups Also, those suffering from hearing loss feel that they have to put extra effort into understanding what is being said and often rely on visual cues such as lip reading and facial expressions,” they say

The doctors say the sooner you treat your hearing loss the better With research showing a significant link between hearing loss and cognitive decline, the sooner you can improve your hearing the sooner you can get your brain focused on its normal functions.

“When extra effort goes into hearing, brain reorganization happens Basically, you end up using different parts of your brain that are not meant for hearing which then takes away the primary function of that part of the brain- it can no longer execute that function to its fullest capabilities because now it is helping you hear,” they say.

One of the best ways to prevent hearing loss is to wear hearing protection in noisy environments Dr Lilly and Dr Beasley say the general rule of thumb is

if you have to raise your voice for someone to hear you that’s an arm’s length away you should be wearing hearing protection.

“Around the age of 55 we recommend that everyone get a hearing test. It’s important to identify hearing loss as soon as possible and monitor the hearing annually once it is diagnosed.”

CARING FOR YOUR DENTAL HEALTH

You might be surprised to learn that oral health can really

provide a good picture on overall health and signs of

aging

Dr Andrew Kelson of Dental Horizons says, “There are things going on in the mouth that are very much connected to the rest of the body. What’s interesting is that physicians consult each other all the time, but tend to separate the mouth from the body and forget they can affect each other. The mouth is the entry point for a lot of your body’s different systems. It’s the entry point for the digestive system, respiratory system and even the circulatory system.”

Clenching and grinding can be a sign of something deeper, such as a sleep or breathing disorder. Dr Kelson says there’s also a connection between diabetes and periodontal disease. If you suspect something is wrong with your mouth it’s important to get in with your dentist.

“Sometimes the blanket statement, ‘you need to brush and floss more,’ is oversimplifying things. There may be other underlying issues. You need to see a dentist at least every six months if not more frequently if there are underlying health issues You can’t have good systemic health without good oral health,” he says

Hearing HealthCare Centers understands the brain-ear connection and how cognitive health is directly impacted by hearing health. With CogniVue, a cognitivescreening tool, patients see how their cognitive scores can improve over time. (Courtesdy Hearing HealthCare Centers)

May is National Better Hearing Month

May is National Better Hearing Month and the American Academy of Audiology is encouraging Americans to make an appointment with an audiologist for a hearing test.

“Healthy hearing means not waiting to check your hearing until hearing loss is so significant it’s impacting your ability to participate in your work, social events you enjoy, or conversations with loved ones, ” said Virginia Ramachandran, Au.D., Ph.D., president of the American Academy of Audiology. Ramachandran is also head of audiology at Oticon, Inc “Subtle changes in hearing may not be immediately noticeable but can make a big difference in quality of life ” She added, “audiologists can check your hearing and make recommendations for improving hearing health and function and

can offer tips for protecting your hearing to make sure it can serve you well for a lifetime.”

Hearing loss impacts a large number of Americans According to a 2016 study by the National Institutes of Health NIDCD, approximately 15% (37.5 million) of American adults aged 20 to 69, have some trouble with hearing and approximately 28.8 million could benefit from the use of hearing aids. As the baby boomer population ages, more Americans are forced to face hearing health challenges. Growing numbers of younger Americans are also reporting hearing problems

While age is still the greatest factor in hearing loss, many younger people also experience hearing difficulty due to exposure to loud music and noises including occupational noise. Among

adults aged 70 and older with hearing loss who could benefit from hearing aids, fewer than one in three (30%) have used them despite growing evidence that doing so results in better longterm outcomes.

“Research demonstrates that untreated hearing loss in seniors is related to poor health outcomes including significantly increased falls and dementia,” said Ramachandran. “Individuals with even mild hearing loss experience significant impact in the form of reduced quality of life and cognitive health. Most importantly, hearing is what connects us to the people in our lives and as we age, those social connections are increasingly valuable. It’s so important that we treasure our hearing and do all we can to support healthy hearing for a lifetime.”

Audiologists are the experts in hearing health. While hearing aids are the most commonly recognized treatment for hearing loss, there are many factors that go into determining the best way to manage changes in hearing. An audiologist is the specialist who is best equipped determine the underlying reason for the hearing loss and to further determine the appropriate treatment. They can also offer custom options for protecting hearing The Academy provides a directory on its website “Find an Audiologist”, where consumers can locate audiologists based on geography and specialty areas

Planning your estate

overwhelming to those approaching the process of making a longterm plan.

While these local professionals are experts at navigating the specifics of estate planning, individuals looking to take the first steps in terms of creating a comprehensive strategy for the future can begin with some simple tasks Creating a general plan can make any work with attorneys more approachable and effective.

Gathering pertinent documents is an essential first step Documents detailing insurance policies, financial accounts (savings, retirement and investment totals) and ownership of assets like mortgages, deeds and titles are crucial in estate planning. Also, balance statements spelling out any kind of outstanding debts are also important.

By Adam Goldstein

The aging process is different for everyone.

Every individual’s journey is unique, and finding the perfect situation for one’s latter years depends on specific situations

From health care to living arrangements to Medicare eligibility, seniors should find the best options that fit their own circumstances and needs

For all these variables, however, one piece of wisdom applies for anyone who’s looking to plan is a smart way for the future. Estate planning is about more than coming up with a will at the last minute. Creating a specific plan to ensure that assets go to the people you choose can benefit you, your family and your loved ones for years to come

Instead of leaving the dispersal of assets to the whims of

the courts and state law, estate planning offers a degree of certainty in any circumstances At its most simple, a good plan can ensure the dispersal of goods and property. At its most weighty, a specific estate plan can determine what happens to the custody of children or grandchildren.

It’s a process that can feel daunting, especially when it comes to making decisions that will leave an impact far into the future Happily, northern Colorado is home to professionals who can make the estate planning process approachable, simple and straightforward.

For example, the Germany Law Firm in Erie (coelderlaw. com/)specializes in estate planning and other elements of elder law. Owner/principal Susie Germany, along with the rest of the team, helps clients create estate plans, administer state trusts and

set up guardianships and conservatorships for individuals.

“Our firm is experienced in assisting clients with estate administration, advanced directives, guardianships, conservatorships, trusts, wills and other probate matters,” Germany Law Firm representatives said on their website “We are a resource for clients who need planning while undergoing major life changes such as death or divorce or assisting single parents in long-term planning for their children.”

Longmont-based Kapsak Estes LLC (kapsakestes.com) is another resource for clients looking for legal counsel in the specific areas of estate planning, estate and trust administration, guardianships and asset protection. Like the attorneys at Germany Law, the Kapsak team is dedicated specifically to this arm of elder law, an area that could easily feel

With these tools in place, starting with simple steps will make the process much easier. Using these documents to organize and identify your assets, create a general last will and testament that can be refined and formalized by attorneys Create a trust, or a legal entity that holds assets for the benefit of one or more beneficiaries. Consider your own unique and individual circumstances, whether that’s factors involving long-term care or other health needs Tailor your plan for your needs, and the needs of your relatives and loved ones.

While every individual’s life journey is different, a smart approach to estate planning can ensure that one has the resources and options to meet the demands of the moment. An estate plan tailored to your own assets, living situation and health needs can be the critical difference for yourself and your loved ones.

MAKING CONNECTIONS

Face-to-face social connections are vital to a fulfilling life.

By Linda Thorsen Bond

When it comes to connecting, sometimes it’s best to start with people who are in the connection business. In northern Colorado, some of the best connectors are the YMCA of Northern Colorado, Cultivate of Boulder and Broomfield, Seniors Helping Seniors and AINC. For the Successful Aging Guide, representatives talked about how and why their programs help seniors

YMCA OF NORTHERN COLORADO

Andra Coberly Webster,

Colorado YMCAs, believes staying active can help manage the effect of loneliness, depression and even dementia.

“Staying socially active is just as important as being physical active, especially when you’re older,” Andra said. “Maybe you have no kids at home, maybe you don’t have a spouse You come to the YMCA and the first time someone says good morning to you, you are on the way to a community. Tons of data shows the importance of maintaining a social life to help keep joy in your life.”

thinking about the people you will see who are looking forward to seeing you. You build a connection by showing up regularly to a class or a facility Each day you may meet someone new, or say hi to someone, and you start learning their names, seeing the same faces, learning about people’s families, things like where they vacation. Community is created through repeated connection with other people.”

People don’t even have to do classes, they just start showing up, walking around the track, and they end up chatting. It’s really conductive to having a conversation with the person walking next to you You start to see the same faces, you make a habit, you have created community”

Executive Director

of Communications for the Northern

Andra said it doesn’t take a lot to kick-start social life. “The benefits start as you get out of your house You have a reason to go somewhere, you start

The YMCAs can be lifechangers. Andra said, “Here seniors become part of little communities, have coffee, maybe go out for breakfast. The instructors are great creators of community, helping people bond and find commonalities

There are YMCAs in Lafayette, Boulder, Longmont, Johnston, Cheyenne, at Camp Santa Maria and even Virtual YMCA programs. Andra recommends experiences as well as classes for seniors, such as potluck, Lunch and Learn, art clubs, line dancing and nutrition workshops. She said, “I want to make sure that everyone knows the opportunity to gather is

Cultivate’s VetsGo program ensures veterans get to medical appointments safely (Courtesy Cultivate)

not just about fitness, but to socialize as well. Together we nurture that community aspect.”

303-406-1180

ymcanoco.org

CULTIVATE OF BOULDER AND BROOMFIELD

Virginia Bryan, the outreach specialist for Cultivate, said the importance of being connected became increasingly important during the pandemic “People felt so isolated, especially our seniors,” she said. “Our volunteers glean so much from the seniors they meet with. They tell us what works and what they need. The words we pick up on let us know things we haven’t thought of or a new direction we should take. We can use those words to talk with public officials and groups who want to help the seniors in our community”

Cultivate is the name since Broomfield was added to the 50-year old Boulder program. There are 600 clients and

only seven people, including Virginia, who run the program. That’s why it’s imperative that volunteers help carry out the work. Programs include:

Carry-Out Caravan (COC)

A shopping service where volunteers take the seniors’ orders, shop for groceries and deliver them. Some of the seniors come along to do the shopping but Virginia said most don’t.

Fix-It

Volunteers go to seniors’ homes to make safety-related repairs on broken wheelchairs, replace dead batteries, or add safety bars to bathrooms. They do not build ramps.

SnowBusters

Volunteers shovel snow on sidewalks for safety and to comply with regulations

YardBusters

Volunteers do basic yard cleanup to comply with regulations, including mowing, raking, picking up branches, and planting flowers, There are large

YMCA classes are a great way to connect with others (Courtesy YMCA)

YardBusters groups as well as individual jobs doing weeding or cleaning.

Cultivate is developing a call program, so that a volunteer calls to check on a senior daily or weekly

RSVP

People 55 and over can volunteer with other agencies to find a fit for their skills and interests

VetsGo

Volunteers provide transportation to senior veterans or their immediate families to medical appointments.

Virginia said Cultivate is constantly getting new clients and could use more volunteers

Leave a message at 303-4431933 or go to cultivate.ngo .

AUDIO INFORMATION NETWORK OF COLORADO (AINC)

AINC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing audio access to print information and empowering services for blind, visually impaired, and print-impaired individuals across Colorado. Michael Sisneros, outreach and listener coordinator, has a special mission this year.

“We want to increase our Hispanic content by half by the end of the year,” Michael said. “Our goal is to bring in new Hispanic clientele That means on the ground level we’re trying to find people to do that We would like to eventually have the same amount of programming in Spanish as well as English. We’re just pushing that at every event. We had a good response at the grand opening for the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Boulder County. In Estes Park I met people who rely heavily on their Spanish speaking

For over 50 years, Cultivate has dedicated itself to helping seniors flourish through active engagement with their communities Our volunteers support our senior neighbors through programs such as medical rides for military veterans and their senior family members; grocery shopping and delivery; minor home repairs; snow shoveling and yard cleanup

Learn more about our services and volunteer opportunities at info@cultivate.ngo | 303.443.1933 | cultivate.ngo

YardBusters assists seniors with yard work while also providing a social connection. (Courtesy Cultivate)

clientele and love the idea of expansion. We are auditioning people who can speak Spanish and doing volunteer reading and training They can do the audio work remotely or in our new studios that just opened. We’re looking to add publications including National Geographic and Hispanic newspapers We look to have a person in place as Director of Hispanic programing by the end of year and have at least one podcast Hispanic driven.

Michael added, “We want to get more Amazon Echo Dot smart speakers into senior communities We also want to let any senior living center, vendor, organization or public service event know that we can offer public service announcements and throw them out to our 1,800 registered listeners and others who listen to us on our website ”

970-443-7990

aincolorado.org

GET TOGETHER

Hover Senior Living Community “Eight Over 80”

Honorary High Tea Celebration

Thursday, May 11, 3 p.m., Fox Hill Club, 1400 State Hwy 119, Longmont

Hover Senior Living will honor eight individuals over the age of 80, who have made a significant contribution to the community and surrounding areas. 303-651-3777, hovercommunity.org/events/

TRU Community Butterfly Release and Memorial

Saturday, June 24, 9 a.m., Whitetail Park, 2550 Autumn Ridge Blvd., Lafayette

Releasing a butterfly in memory of a loved one is a special way to honor those we ’ ve lost This event is free and open to the public. Butterflies can be reserved for $20. If you are unable to attend, staff will release your butterfly for you

Start Your Own Gathering at Culver’s

Hospitality is part of the community culture at Culver’s! Grab some friends and let them invite another friend and soon you’ll have a gaggle of gals and guys. Culver’s welcomes your group to kick off any gathering by enjoying a decadent butter burger (or anything else you may crave) and finish it off with some of their famous custard in a cone. Fuel for your day plus time for pleasant conversation

No one delivers your LOCAL NEWS like your LOCAL NEWSPAPER

Despite Inflated Prices, Most Americans Age 50-plus Are Making Traveling with Family a Priority in 2023

• Most older travelers (85%) rank travel in their top three priorities for discretionary spending, significantly higher than other kinds of expenses.

We investigate issues that matter to our community. Our stories dig deep, address problems and create change. Subscribe now for news that matters, plus sports coverage, places to go and things to do and valuable advertising savings and specials.

Older Adults Say They Will Travel, But Want to Save on Cost. Many Find Road

Trips Offer the Flexibility and Freedom They Seek.

WASHINGTON—Sky-high flight costs won’t stop older Americans from making family travel plans, according to a new report from AARP The annual AARP Travel Trends survey examines the travel behaviors, expectations, and planning among adults.

Three out five people 50-plus surveyed said they anticipate traveling in 2023 – similar to the results of the 2022 survey. AARP research found that road trips in particular are a great way to discover new adventures and connect with loved ones while still being affordable

Road trips fulfill older travelers’ top motivation for travel in

2023, according to the research: to spend more time with family and friends They offer a set of unique benefits over other forms of travel, such as the ability to visit local attractions on the way, experience local food and culture and enjoy scenic routes on the drive

“Though costs are higher than normal this year, older adults are once again eager to travel. Our research shows that travel is at the top of their priority lists,” says Patty David, AARP Vice President of Consumer Insights

“And, with the ability to bring family members along, many find road trips to be a budgetfriendly choice as well as a fun one. Multi-generational road trips can improve emotional well-being, increase connections with loved ones, and benefit overall energy”

More major findings from the survey:

• Family trips are older adults’ number one motivator for domestic travel this year, ranking well above solo vacations

• For 2023, 61% of travelers anticipate domestic-only travel. 50% of their domestic trips will be by car this year, compared to 43% in 2022.

• Concerns about COVID decreased this past year among 50-plus participants, meaning most travelers (81%) feel that travel is now safe

• Domestic travelers plan to take more trips to the U.S South (38%) and West (31%) than other parts of the country.

To view the full 2023 survey results, visitaarp. org/2023TravelTrends.

AARP Travel, a valuable resource for Americans 50-plus, who spend over $149 billion annually on leisure travel, helps travelers stretch their dollar and itineraries while also stretching their minds and possibilities AARP provides all interested travelers with vacation resources, tips and inspiration for their next getaway, including budget travel, outdoor destinations, road trips, and more.

For more information, visit: aarp.org/travel.

LONGMONT SENIOR CENTER

Find connection, education and wellness at the Senior Center.

By Misty Kaiser

You’ve all likely heard the evidence that staying connected with your community fosters good mental health, keeps you sharp and improves overall wellbeing Knowing that, there’s no reason to overlook one of the best local resources—the Longmont Senior Center

The Longmont Senior Center keeps a busy schedule of activities designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests. A simple glance through their quarterly GO Catalog, might be the best place to start reconnecting with others with similar interests Many classes and activities are free or very low cost, thought others do have fee and registration is required.

Here are a few of the many things they have going on, according to the Friends of the Longmont Senior Center website:

Drop In programs

Bridge, billiards, quilting, mahjongg, shuffleboard, knitting and table tennis to name a very few. The programs do not require pre-registration and are free to very, very low cost donation.

Life Long Learning

Classes in the Humanities, Arts, History, and more are taught by engaged and skilled teachers and require pre-registration.

Computers and Technology

This award winning peer-topeer teaching model program offers lectures, workshops, and numerous one-on-one assistance sessions each quarter and regular drop in lab opportunities.

Exercise and Wellness

A variety of exercise programs (up to 15 different types of class each quarter) are offered. Several Silver Sneakers© and RenewActive™ classes are also offered. If cost is a concern, you can use the Friends sponsored scholarship to get involved.

Special Events

These activities change each quarter and include film series, concerts, lectures, celebrations and more Some are free and others have a small fee.

Sports

Softball, golf, volleyball, pickleball, tennis, and others are offered for group and individual play Some are offered on a drop in basis and others require preregistration

Outdoors

Explore local and regional areas by hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing Pre-registration is required.

Trips

A great way to get to out and about from a simple lunch out

in a nearby town to a featured show at the Temple Buell Theatre Education, history, dinner theaters, concerts, gambling, Stock Show, horse racing, and many more opportunities provide destinations that are fun, engaging, easy to get to (let us do the ticketing and driving)

Extended Trips

Through partnerships with local travel experts check out the very successful extended travel program. Destinations may include Ireland, Panama Canal, Germany, Baltic Sea cruise and many more.

If you’re on a limited budget and have concerns about your ability to afford fees for some of the activities, The Friends of the Longmont Senior Center, Inc. may be able to help. They provide assistance through their scholarship programs, giving everyone the chance to stay active

According to their website, “As long as funds are available, an individual may use up to $150 a year towards Senior Services activities of his or her choice and up to $150 per calendar year, specifically for Senior Center exercise programs Exercise activities may include: SilverSneakers© Fitness, Feldenkrais, line dance, Pilates, Tai Chi, yoga, and hikes Cancellations are not refunded back to the person’s scholarship account. Persons with a total annual income (from all sources) of $20,000 or less for a single person and $30,000

or less for a couple can qualify for scholarships.”

If you’re interested in checking out Senior Services programs, but find yourself in need of assistance Call the front office to apply.

Friends of the Longmont Senior Center also sponsors a Cultural Enrichment Program

Engaging speakers present topics that are “educational, insightful, and intriguing ” The program is free, but they ask that you register in advance by calling the Senior Center

If you would like to know more about any of these programs, the best resource is the GO Catalog available online at longmontcolorado.gov/departments/departments-n-z/seniorservices/catalog-and-registration-senior-services or limited copies at the Senior Center

You’ll also find information regarding registration, which begins on May 15.

You can also ask for information on any of the above activities by calling the Senior Center front office at 303-651-8411

HAIR TRENDS

Cut and Color with Your New Best Friend

Need Help or Want to Help?

There’s a huge difference in the kind of home care you receive from someone who understands what life is like as a senior.

Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care services is seeking mature and compassionate adults who want to lend a hand to seniors who need extra support. Proudly serving all of Boulder County!

Summer styles are highly individual and at Good Hair Vibes Only, your preferences matter

By Linda Thorsen Bond

Mitchell Camp of Good Hair Vibes

Only knows a lot about hair. He can give a precision cut, create beautiful color and style for any occasion. But the main thing he knows is that when people chose a stylist, they choose a new best friend. They are making the choice to share life’s journey with the stylist.

Mitchell said, “As we’ve gone through the COVID pandemic, we have seen the toll on our clients. We’ve seen the devastation and lost, the emotions and the effect on people’s mental

status

In the beauty industry we know what our job is, but we’ve had to change to protect our clients and keep functioning We have stepped up to the plate to make and protect the friendships we have We are caregiv-

ers and comforters as well as stylists In the time of solitude like people have had, it makes a difference ”

“I don’t want to give a list of 50 styles for women over 50,” Mitchell said. “Not every style suits every person, every lifestyle or every occasion. But what I do want to say is that with each styling, I can give friendship and caring. Each of us wants a simple smile, that sparkle that we see when people consider us a friend. I think that’s what we’re all seeking ”

Good Hair Vibes Only opened with a celebration a year ago, and now the salon is celebrating its first anniver-

sary In honor of the occasion, clients will automatically get a coupon to get the $20 cut for only $9.99. In addition, there will be drawings for:

• A basket of shampoo, conditioner and a hair color

• A card that can be redeemed for five haircuts

• A gift box with shampoo, conditioner and a permanent. The gift box is valued at $120 basket Mitchell invites everyone to celebrate Good Hair Vibe

Only’s first anniversary, and he promises he will throw in a great big friendly smile for free

GOOD HAIR VIBES ONLY

1132 Frances St. Suite B Longmont

720-572-9710

goodhairvibesonly.com,

With compassion and the use of innovative techniques, our surgeons offer full-scope oral surgery services to our patients. We are able to provide care in both an office and hospital setting utilizing an array of anesthesia options to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

 Dental Implants

 Bone Grafting

 3D Imaging



to working together as a team throughout your time with our practice. Patients specifically interested in dental implants are paired with an Implant Coordinator who will be there to assistinwalkingyouthroughtheprocesseverystepoftheway. Please reach out with any questions you may have.

Vibrant color isn’t just for kids! Go for something bold.

SENIOR SAVINGS

By Sarah Huber

After a lifetime of work, seniors can stretch their retirement savings with help from local, state and federal resources

Senior Housing Tax Exemption, credit

Colorado seniors may qualify for either the Senior Property Tax Exemption or the Senior Housing Tax Credit – and it’s not too late to amend your 2022 income taxes accordingly. The Senior

Property Tax Exemption allows seniors 65 or older who have owned and lived in their home for at least 10 consecutive years to be exempted from the property tax of 50 percent of the first $200,000 of the actual value of their home.

For those who do not qualify for the exemption, Colorado is offering a one-time Senior Housing Tax Credit, applicable to 2022 taxes. Ron Vejrostek, owner of Vejrostek Tax and Financial in Longmont and the author of Financially Intact, explained, “The

Some expenses aren’t avoidable, but seniors can take advantage of their own special discounts.

new for 2022 Senior Housing Tax Credit is for everyone over the age of 65 who has not lived and owned their home for 10 years and has been a resident of Colorado for all of 2022.”

The tax credit is determined by a senior’s taxable income and scales from a $1,000 credit for those making $25,000 or less to a reduced credit for those making $75,000 (the limit of the credit). Vejrostek continued, “If your taxable household income is $30,000, your credit will be $900, and a household with income of $50,000 would get $500.” Seniors have until Oct. 18 to amend their Colorado income taxes to receive the credit.

Medicare, Medicaid and caregiving support

Vejrostek also urged seniors to reach out to a local Medicare agent to learn what moneysaving resources they might be missing. “Some who are dual-eligible – with Medicare and Medicaid – may be able to receive up to $180 a month in healthy foods through the supplemental program,” he said. “It sounds too good to be true, but an agent can talk you through what programs you might be eligible for.” Vejrostek, who serves as an agent as part of his financial advising business,

added, “I want people to get the help they need, no matter who they go to ” Visit bouldercounty gov/families/seniors/services/ medicare-counseling/.

Save on prescriptions

“There isn’t any reason why someone who would qualify as low-income would have to struggle to get their medications, thanks to Extra Help, a federal program that pays for some or most of the out-ofpocket fees for prescriptions,” said Carmen Cisneros, Kaiser Permanente’s team lead for the Medicare department in Colorado. Seniors may apply through the Social Security website at ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extrahelp

Cisneros encouraged all seniors, regardless of income, to conduct a prescription review with a health insurance agent or broker. “Go over your costs and see how you can maximize your insurance program, whether that’s receiving a three-month supply of your medicine from your local pharmacy or receiving your prescriptions through a mail-order program,” she said.

“Also ask about the Pharmaceutical Access Program for help with individual prescriptions for seniors who qualify based on income.”

Internet discounts

The Affordable Connectivity Program provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households Eligible households may also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a computer from participating providers, with a minimum contribution toward the purchase price. Seniors may qualify if they are eligible for Medicaid or receive Veteran’s Benefits. See fcc.gov/acp for the eligibility criteria.

Assistance with heating, efficiency upgrades

Colorado seniors on a tight budget may receive a discount on their heating bills, thanks to the Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP). This program pays part of the monthly heating bill directly to the fuel vendor To qualify, a senior’s income must be below

60 percent of the state income level Visit cdhs.colorado.gov/ leap.

Homeowners looking to upgrade their HVAC equipment or make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes this year are eligible for a variety of rebates Visit co.my.xcelenergy.com/s/ residential/home-rebates.

Food benefits for low-income seniors

A senior may qualify for Colorado’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) if their gross monthly income limit does not exceed $2,266 (for a household size of one). SNAP provides a monthly food benefit that may be used at grocery stores and participating markets. Visit cdhs.colorado. gov/snap for eligibility requirements.

SENIOR RESOURCES

By Misty Kaiser

Seniors who find themselves in need of a helping hand have a wealth of resources in Boulder County Senior centric organizations provide information at each stage of aging Get answers and assistance with everything from housing to food to transportation. Here are few to get you started on your journey:

Boulder County Area Agency on Aging

This agency promotes the independence and well-being of seniors throughout Boulder County by providing wellness programs, resources to promote independent living, veterans services, caregiver support and more.

303-441-3570, bouldercounty.org/departments/community-services/area-agency-aging/

Boulder County Housing & Human Services

They provide options and advice on long-term care, assistance with health coverage, financial assistance and more.

303-441-1000

bouldercounty.org/departments/housing-and-human-services

Circle of Care

Circle of Care aims to combat social isolation by providing opportunities to attend arts and cultural events They provide

transportation, companionship and tickets

303-358-4300, circleofcareproject.org

City of Longmont Senior Services

The city provides numerous resources for seniors, including dementia-friendly activities and social groups, money management programs, caregiver support groups and more

303-651-8411

longmontcolorado.gov/departments/ departments-n-z/senior-services/ supportive-services

Cultivate

Cultivate helps seniors who live independently by providing services, including home repairs, yard work, snow removal, grocery delivery, transportation to medical appointments for elderly veterans and more.

303-443-1933, cultivate.ngo

Veterans Service Office

They offer assistance to veterans in determining for which benefits they may be eligible

303-441-3890

Eldershare

Elder Share provides free groceries to adults ages 60+ in Boulder and Broomfield Counties twice per month via residential sites, community sites, and home delivery routes.

Call (303) 652-3663 (ask for Elder Share Manager) or email eldershare@ communityfoodshare.org to sign up for the program.

Lockbox Program

Longmont Meals on Wheels, in partnership with Longmont Fire Department, can provide a free lockbox to Longmont residents who live alone and are age 65+ or younger with a disability or major medical issue The program allows Emergency Services access in the event of an emergency.

Call 303-772-0540 for an application or information.

Long Term Care Ombudsman

Help and information for residents of nursing homes and personal care facilities and their families to address concerns, compare facilities, and resolve problems.

303-441-1173

Longmont FlexRide

For information, to schedule a ride, or to register as a new rider call 303-299-6000. Once you are registered as a rider you can also schedule your rides online at rtddenver.com.

Longmont Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels delivers meals to the homebound Monday – Friday

303-772-0540, longmontmeals.org

Longmont Senior Center

910 Longs Peak Ave., Longmont Monday - Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (303) 651-8411

Seniors Helping Seniors

Boulder County

In-home care services brighten the lives of seniors who can benefit from a helping hand and a friendly smile. Local caregivers, who are seniors themselves, make your life easier by providing compassionate care in the comfort of your home

720-551-4444, shsbouldercounty.com

Via

Mobility Services

Via provides transportationrelated services to older adults and people with disabilities. Free door-through-door, and wheelchair-accessible Schedule rides 1-7 days in advance 303-444-3043

viacolorado.org/services/get-started

A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO DENTISTRY

Andrew Kelson, DDS Jameson Ribbens, DDS

Guiding Generations to Healthy Smiles

Planning for Medicaid

conditions Medicare has set standards for costs and coverage so a person’s Medicare coverage is the same no matter what state you live in.

By Darian Armer

Navigating healthcare can be tricky, so we’ve included some tips for those applying for Medicaid for the first time. First,

differentiate between Medicare and Medicaid.

Medicare is a federal health insurance for those 65 years and older, and some people under 65 with certain disabilities or

Medicaid is a joint program between federal and state that helps cover medical costs for some people with limited income and resources Unlike Medicare, Medicaid has general rules each state Medicaid program must follow but each state is free to run its own program, meaning eligibility requirements and benefits can vary from state to state.

The upside to Medicaid is that it offers benefits that Medicare doesn’t normally cover, such as nursing home care and personal care services, services that

become more important as you age Those with Medicaid coverage often don’t pay anything for covered medical expenses outside of a small co-payment for some items or services

There are two ways to apply for Medicaid: Directly with your state or through the Health Insurance Marketplace If you go through the second option you’ll visit HealthCare.gov and create a Marketplace account to complete your application. You need to reply “yes” when asked if you’d like to see if you can get help paying for coverage. If your application shows that someone in your household may qualify for Medicaid then the Marketplace will forward your application to your state for the final

decision. You can also call the Marketplace Call Center to apply Colorado’s Medicaid program is called Health First Colorado. When you go to apply you’ll need a specific set of documents:

• Social security numbers for applicants who have them

• Immigration document numbers for non-citizens

• Name, address, contact info and birth date for applicants

• Employer and income information for everyone in the household. Ex: pay stubs or W2 forms

• Other income information including Social Security Administration or Supplemental Security Income payments

• Information and policy numbers for health insurance plans covering members of your household

When you apply for Medicaid be ready for a possibly long wait to receive your determination. The time you’ll have to wait varies by state, but in Colorado it can take up to 45 days or even 90 days if the application requires a disability determination.

For questions about Medicaid visit Above and Beyond Solutions for Seniors at the Successful Aging Expo.

CHOOSING A FIDUCIARY, MEDICAL OR FINANCIAL AGENT

Finding a trustworthy and knowledgeable financial and fiduciary agent is critical. With locations across Colorado (including Denver, Broomfield, Longmont and Loveland), the law firm of Jorgenson, Brownwell & Pepin, PC (jbplegal com) offers a range of legal services designed to accommodate the unique needs of seniors

“We provide compassionate legal representation and understand you and your elderly loved ones are more than a case number,” said JBP Legal Coordinator Andrea Rau “We will help you navigate uncertain and often painful circumstances with both sensitivity and zealous advocacy.”

For example, estate planning, Medicaid, real estate and elder care fall into the firm’s purview, and all of these fields can be critical when it comes to making important transitions and finalizing decisions that will have an impact not only on seniors themselves but on generations to come

RETIRERIGHT

WHAT DOES YOUR RETIREMENT PICTURE LOOK LIKE? PICTURE YOUR GRANDPARENTS’ RETIREMENT

By Gabe Bodner

What did life look like back then? How much did a gallon of gas cost? How much did a dozen eggs cost? How much did a bottle of soda cost? How much did homes cost? Now visualize your retirement. Does it look the same? What’s different?

If you are like me, you would agree that everything has changed! My future retirement will not look anything close to my parents or grandparents’ retirement and I am sure you would say the same Part of the difference is not just the cost of living and home prices, but life is very different today than what it was 30, 40, 50 and 60 years ago! Medicine, technology, cars, pensions, life expectancy, more technology, etc

When we think about how retirement has changed and how it is done today, I would also argue that the tools used for retirement are different today My mother

was a teacher for 30+ years and receives a pension. My grandparents lived a very modest, mediocre (at best) retirement on social security, with no savings and never splurged and never took any vacations. When I visualize my retirement, I do not expect to receive a pension and I do not plan to sit in a rocking chair for 30 years and grow old and skip out on travel and seeing family and friends. I want to live a long, fun filled retirement with purpose and meaning With that, I expect that I will need a lot of money to do all of those things along with fulfilling my bucket list!

So, what tools do I need to secure in order to achieve the retirement that I dream about?

First, I will need to eliminate some monthly expenses in order to incur new expenses Let’s face it, if my income is less in retirement, then ultimately my expenses need to be reduced as well. Therefore, I will first want to eliminate my mortgage

payment which is likely my largest monthly expense. On top of reducing expenses, how will I pay for all the trips and activities that I want to take? The money I have saved in my 401K and my IRA will likely not be enough to cover a 30-year retirement. Ultimately, that money is designed to help replace lost income in retirement. What if I tap into my home equity to access some additional cash to cover larger expenses in retirement like travel and home improvement? How do I do that without incurring a new monthly expense and do it safely? I can’t do that with a 30-year mortgage or a 15-year mortgage or a HELOC (home equity line of credit). Even if the interest rate is 2.5 or 3 or 4%, it still requires me to pay it back, right?

Well, the answer is a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage This is a tool that allows you to access a portion of your home’s equity and not have to make monthly payments, bingo! You can make payments, but you are simply not required to make payments. This is the most incredible, most flexible retirement planning tool that exists today!

Seriously...you can access some of the equity in your home while continuing to own your home, without ever having to pay it back until you sell the house or you pass away (you still need to pay your property taxes, home-

owner’s insurance and HOA dues if applicable). Additionally, if you live in your home for the rest of your life and you never sell your home, your heirs can inherit your home and they will pay back the loan using the proceeds of the sale of the home or other assets If the balance ends up being greater than the value of the home upon sale, the heirs cannot be held liable either because this is a non-recourse mortgage to boot! Oh yeah, and you do not need to pay any income taxes on the equity that you take out because it is not considered income (this is not tax or financial advice).

So, what’s the catch? There isn’t any...seriously! Okay, the catch is you must be at least 62 years old to qualify (there are similar programs that are available starting at age 55). Yes, that’s right for all of you who are in your 30s, 40s and 50s, you have to wait a few more years to get your Home Equity Conversion Mortgage. I can tell you now, I will get mine as soon as I am eligible! This is the most powerful retirement tool that exists today It is a very flexible and financially smart strategy that can increase your cash flow, enhance your overall quality of life, and improve your probability of success in retirement.

Gabe Bodner is a retirement mortgage planner and licensed mortgage originator in Colorado To reach Gabe, call 720.600.4870, e-mail gabe@bodnerteam.com or visit reversemortgagesco.com.

New Online Tool Helps Older Adults Manage Their Finances

The National Council on Aging (NCOA), the national voice for everyone’s right to age well, has launched Budget CheckUp, a free online tool that gives older adults practical tips on how to create a monthly budget and manage their money. A grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation helped fund the tool’s development.

“Many older adults live on a fixed income, which is challenging when the cost of living and inflation are on the rise. The Budget CheckUp can help them stretch their dollars every month” said Josh Hodges, NCOA’s Chief Customer Officer.

The tool offers guidance on how to create a monthly budget and decrease expenses, and it identifies programs that can help pay for medications and utilities We are grateful to Bank of America for their generous support of this effort.”

Users answer questions about their goals, such as what expenses they’d like to decrease, whether they are retired or a full-time caregiver, what benefits programs they are enrolled in, their age, and household income Their responses generate a personalized plan of action to make the most of their budget. NCOA does not collect any per-

sonally identifiable information, but users can create accounts to save their plans

Budget CheckUp is one of NCOA’s suite of online tools that are part of the Age Well Planner, which also includes:

Job Skills CheckUp, which offers older jobseekers tips on how to create a resume, interview, and find a job

Medicare Cost Estimator, which helps older adults see how much various plans might cost, depending on their health conditions

Falls Free CheckUp® , which empowers older adults to discover their risk of a fall

BenefitsCheckUp® , a separate online tool, enables older adults to see if they may be eligible for benefits programs to cover daily costs such as food and health care

ABOUT NCOA

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is the national voice for every person’s right to age well. We believe that how we age should not be determined by gender, color, sexuality, income, or ZIP code. Working with thousands of national and local partners, we provide resources, tools, best practices, and advocacy to ensure every person can age with health and financial security Founded in 1950, we are the oldest national organization focused on older adults. Learn more by following us at @NCOAging

Dr. Lynn Carlyle

• Collaborative medical decision making

• Extended appointment times

• Same doctor every visit

We believe that you are the most important person in the room and a valued member of your own health care team.

7 benefits of regular physical activity

Laurel Kelly, Mayo Clinic News Network(TNS)

Whether you’re a novice taking the first steps toward fitness or an exercise fanatic hoping to optimize your results, a wellrounded fitness training program is essential.

Fitness training balances five elements of good health. Your overall exercise plan should include aerobic fitness, strength training, core exercises, balance training, and flexibility and stretching. It isn’t necessary to fit each of these elements into every fitness session, but including them in your regular routine can help you promote fitness for life. Exercise and physical activity are a great way to have fun, too

If you want to feel better, have more energy and even add years to your life, check out these seven ways exercise can lead to a happier, healthier you:

Turning 65 or new to Medicare?

Humana can help you choose a Medicare plan

Find a Humana plan that fits your goals and your life

It’s time to choose your 2023 Medicare plan, and Humana and I are here to help you understand your options. A Humana Medicare Advantage plan gives you everything you get with Original Medicare, and may have additional benefits and services that meet your healthcare needs. Humana offers these plans at attractive premiums.

1. Exercise controls weight.

Exercise can help control your weight, prevent excess weight gain or maintain weight loss. When you take part in physical activity, you burn calories The more intense the activity, the more calories you burn.

2. Exercise combats heart conditions and diseases.

Being active boosts highdensity lipoprotein, or HDL or “good,” cholesterol, and it decreases unhealthy triglycerides

This one-two punch keeps your blood flowing smoothly, which decreases your risk of cardiovascular diseases

3. Exercise improves mood.

Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that may

leave you feeling happier, more relaxed and less anxious. You also may feel better about your appearance when you exercise regularly, which can boost your confidence and improve your self-esteem.

4. Exercise boosts energy. Regular physical activity can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance. Exercise delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently And when your heart and lung health improve, you have more energy to tackle daily chores

5. Exercise promotes better sleep.

Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster, get better sleep and deepen your sleep.

6. Exercise puts the spark back into your sex life. Regular physical activity can improve energy levels and increase your confidence about your physical appearance, which may boost your sex life. Regular physical activity may enhance arousal for women, and men who exercise regularly are less likely to have problems with erectile dysfunction than men who don’t exercise.

7. Exercise can be fun and social.

Exercise and physical activity can be enjoyable. Exercise gives you a chance to unwind, enjoy the outdoors or simply take part in activities that make you happy. Physical activity also can help you connect with family or friends in a fun social setting.

Tips to help when downsizing

By Linda Thorsen Bond

It is easier for a camel to get through the eye of a needle than to fit a lifetime of possessions into a much smaller space. What can you do when your closets are full, the storage area jam-packed, the garage is piled to the top and a voice bellows, “You must downsize. NOW!”

Fear not, there is help available. Aging at Altitude explored downsizing with two experts, Beth Blacker of It’s Just Stuff and Clarissa Edelen, owner of Fabulous Finds

Blacker offers six tips for people who are surveying the detritus of a life well lived and feeling despair.

GIVE YOURSELF TIME

The founder of It’s Just Stuff said, “For a lot of people downsizing or going to assisted living is so emotionally difficult. It’s not because they want to keep everything, but they are looking back on more years than they have ahead which then makes them very nostalgic and, therefore, often just sad. I try to impress on seniors or their family members to give themselves time to reflect, to go through, to wrap their heads around the things they have collected all their lives and realize they can only fit so much in a small living space It can paralyze them and then they emotionally shut down. It’s not something anybody should ever disparage or criticize. Allow a proper amount of time to work on it. I tell people it’s important to work as far in advance as possible.

WORK IN CHUNKS OF TIME

Downsizing takes a lot of energy. Nothing is harder than trying to do it all in one day. I recommend people sort in small chunks of time. Maybe break the work into 15- or 20-minute chunks; even set an alarm and when it goes off, stop Then if you feel good after 5 minutes, work another chunk of time and take another break Keep doing this for as long as you can on a given day and you will be less likely to get overwhelmed. Remember, there’s physical

effort involved, and even the mental work feels physical. Allow proper chunks of time, so that you don’t get frustrated and not want to do it.

DOWNSIZE BEFORE DOWNSIZING

We all think we have plenty of time. Every move I’ve made I’ve gotten rid of that much more stuff. Don’t wait until it’s time to downsize before you start organizing things Time is important and everything can be worked on gradually.

GIVE THINGS TO FRIENDS

My mother had quite a few designer purses. When she died, I had her friends come over and I let them each pick a purse they wanted to keep It was functional and it made them smile That’s one way to preserve the memories without maintaining the physical objects that usually become a burden to keep

DEALING WITH PHOTOS

It’s especially hard to sort photos The memories will be there, and the photos have stories to tell. If the photos are of anybody who is long gone and you don’t know who’s in the picture, throw it out. You can have photos you know and care about scanned and send them digitized to anyone you think would want them.

NO JUDGMENTS

I come in to help people because I bring a fresh set of eyes, ears (listening is so important in this process) and hands. Downsizing requires patience, compassion, empathy and vision. I help people start with the low-hanging fruit and see what they don’t need. I suggest they set themselves up for success by finding things that are easy to do at first and, therefore, they can trick their brain into accomplishing something in the first hour. When people lose momentum and motivation, and clients say, “I don’t know where to start,” I just say, “I do ” This is my superpower, but it doesn’t mean it is yours and that is okay so let go of any guilt you may be feeling and just remember

Fabulous Finds takes your gently loved home goods on consignment to help you downsize.

it took you more than a day to collect all of your stuff so it will take more than a day to edit it all. itsjuststuff.co

Clarissa Edelen, owner of the two 5,000-square-foot Fabulous Finds shops in Longmont,

provides a new life for valuable women’s fashion and home furnishings

Edelen said, “I love what we do It’s a win-win business People have to get rid of good quality fashion or home furnish-

ings and they don’t want to donate them to a thrift store They want to know that things they love and treasure get into the hands of people who like what they had. When people don’t want to part with things but need to, when they have to downsize for moving, for example, into independent living, that’s where we come in. We can come in and take a hard objective look at what they have.

We do mobile consignments and can go through the whole house and select what we can sell. We are curating what comes into our stores After 12 years I can see the trends in fashion and home design and know what we’re looking for. For example, we only take clothing that’s within the last two to three years

In the home furnishing store, we take all quality genres in design, from shabby chic to glamour

and brands like Restoration Hardware and Crate and Barrel. We don’t take appliances except maybe a new little countertop appliance in a box like a Cuisinart. We take fine crystal, fine sterling décor items, original artwork, and everything from rugs to chandeliers. We help people who are downsizing, someone going into assisted living and sometimes people who are moving. When a house sells, sometimes the whole kit and caboodle needs to be dealt with. We can reboot and try to accommodate that. Some of our customers are property stagers, real estate agents, interior designers, and other people with a design group who are looking to design homes that are going on the market Edelen has a list of guidelines for working with Fabulous Finds for consignment. Go to fabfindsconsign.com/consignment

(Courtesy It’s Just Stuff)

SMOOTHING THE PATH

Advance planning and caring conversations ease transitions between home, assisted living and skilled nursing

They need help with showering. They may have memory issues,” says Melissa O’Hara, CEO of Longmont’s Hover Community, a campus that includes independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing care

Seniors and their families face a series of transitions from home to senior living, assisted living and skilled nursing care through hospice and end-of-life care

We talked to three local organizations about the senior living choices available in Northern Colorado and the steps caregivers can take to ease the stress of those inevitable changes.

“There haven’t been a lot of options for people who can stay in their homes but need assistance,” Black says.

“Once a person enrolls with PACE, we are responsible for them as long as the person wants us involved, from home to assisted living through the end of life We follow them through every up and down in their health.”

By John Lehndorff

Aging experts say it is the little things that tip us off, the clues that we – or an older person that we love - may need more assistance to live their best lives.

“Often the seniors start to ask questions: ‘Am I making it okay?’ ‘Am I getting isolated in

my home,” says Holly Turner, Administrator for Senior Living at Loveland’s Good Samaritan Society Village, a 75-acre campus featuring senior living, assisted living, rehab and skilled nursing

Many families and caregivers also start to observe subtle changes in behavior. “They see elders struggling with medications

“I have yet to meet an older adult – and I am very rapidly becoming one - who says ‘I can’t wait to grow up and live in a nursing home,’” says Samantha Black, executive director of TRU PACE Community Care

PACE is an unusual Medicareand Medicaid-funded program that provides all-inclusive care of the elderly

PACE’s Lafayette facility has a day room, a staffed rehab gym, a full medical clinic with doctors along with providing home care services, social workers, dieticians and transportation to and from the center and appointments with medical specialists

CHOOSING ASSISTED LIVING

For Holly Turner at Good Samaritan Society – Loveland Village, “assisted living” can mean different things according to individual needs

“Many residents are perfectly active and able to take care of

Residents at Good Samaritan Society – Loveland Village enjoy a “Walk ‘N Roll” stroll. (Courtesy Good Samaritan Society)

themselves, but need a little bit of extra help When you move into assisted living you don’t have to assume that you’re going to have to give everything up. We like to call it a little extra help from friends,” Turner says. Some residents are very active and cook for themselves, she says, and others get meals the Village’s dining facility

Longmont’s Hover Community is an interconnected campus providing a continuum of care. “Our philosophy here is that this is their home. We know the importance of being in a familiar place,” says Melissa O’Hara of Hover Community

“You can walk from independent living to assisted living on the campus without going outside. Residents have friends here that used to be independent and they can visit and continue their friendships,” she says

IS IT TIME FOR SKILLED NURSING?

Caregivers and families usually know when elders need 24-hour skilled nursing attention. “When taking care of themselves gets to be too much, or they cannot monitor their own insulin. If they can’t transition from a chair, to a bed on their own, then they might need to go to long term care,” says Turner.

Longmont’s Hover Community takes a new approach to making those who need skilled nursing services feel at home. Their Katherine & Charles Hover Green Houses are four long term nursing care homes on the campus

“Each house is home to ten elders with their own bedrooms and a common area where they have their meals together around one long table The food is cooked right there and they can help cook. It is like being home,”

Melissa O’Hara says

EASING END OF LIFE PLANNING

The final transition that elders and families have to make is the most challenging, but it doesn’t have to be the most stressful.

“At TRU PACE, from the moment folks walk in our door, we’re talking all the time with them about their health goals. Do they want to be really aggressively managing their condition, or do they want to focus more on just well-being? The same is true of end-of-life planning We discuss end of life options regularly to make sure we know their wishes,” says Samantha Black.

Among TRU PACE’s options is an inpatient hospice unit that is staffed 24 hours a day at Longmont United Hospital.

The campus at Good Samaritan Society – Loveland Villagee

includes a hospice unit.

“Our elders can be admitted to our long-term care with hospice and still have their neighbors visit them. It’s just a short walk across the campus, so they’re still connected,” says Good Sam’s Holly Turner.

SENIOR LIVING RESOURCES

Hover Senior Living Community: hovercommunity.org

Good Samaritan Society Loveland Village: good-sam.com/locations/ loveland-village

TRU PACE Community Care: pace.trucare.org

withBalance EMPOWER

Tips for fall prevention through building balance

By Wendy McMillan

Spring has arrived! As the winter chill does its usual alluring dance, blooming into the renewed but mercurial season, we can’t help but feel the proverbial extra spring in our steps, whatever the weather But if that lift is accompanied by a quiet but persistent voice saying ‘proceed with caution’, know you’re not alone From slippery sidewalks to poolside patios, and even the comfort of home, activity in and out of doors can pose risks of falling These risks

become increasingly worrying as we age, and it’s sensible to be mindful of them.

“One in four seniors experiences a fall each year,” says Dr. Tracy Ellen Lippard, MD, Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine with Kaiser Permanente. “Of these, one of every five falls results in serious injury, such as broken bones or head injury, even death.” The good news is, there is a lot that can be done to reduce the risk.

Most falls are preventable So, what is the key to prevention?

Like with so much of life itself,

it’s all about balance. Here are some insights on how to achieve it.

FIND OUT WHERE YOU ARE

Like with any goal, it’s always wise to start by establishing a baseline. It’s important to pay attention to those trips and stumbles, Dr. Lippard says, and you can get a lot of information from a really simple test.

“Find an area where you have something stable to grab onto if needed, such as next to a countertop,” she says “Stand next to

it, and simply alternate standing on one foot for as little as ten seconds, she says, thirty seconds, one minute or more. Once successful, try closing your eyes and see if your balance is harder to maintain ”

TALK WITH YOUR CARE PROVIDER

If you’re feeling unsteady on your feet, it’s worth consulting with your doctor right away. Balance problems can be caused by medical conditions and certain medications. These are issues that need to be addressed, and many have simple solutions to make all the difference.

“Some medications increase risk of falls, including over-thecounter ones like diphenhydramine products like Benadryl or “PM” meds,” says Dr. Lippard, adding that in some cases, what you aren’t taking may be as significant as what you are “Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause balance issues, and this is easily correctable ”

Don’t shy away from those regular eye and ear checks, either Inner ear problems such as inflammation can cause vertigo and imbalance If you wear bifocals, you may want a pair of glasses with only distance vision for outdoor activities like walking or hiking, Dr. Lippard says.

TRY YOGA OR TAI CHI

Don’t let fear of falling keep you from being active On the contrary, keeping moving is crucial to building and maintaining strength and balance. Gentle activities like Tai Chi and Yoga help develop strength, balance, flexibility, coordination and mindfulness There is a lot of data around Tai Chi in particular for preventing falls, Dr. Lippard says Some studies have shown Tai Chi to reduce falls in seniors by up to 45%. Moreover, these activities can be practiced solo at

home, or in a group setting for added social camaraderie.

TAKE A BALANCE BUILDING CLASS

Longmont Recreation Center and Longmont Senior Center

offer a full range of SilverSneakers® classes, including SilverSneakers® Stability The Stability class focuses on exercise and movement to increase stability, balance and improve reaction time.

Other classes include Yoga, circuit training, a modified Tai Chi and even Zumba.

All classes are designed specifically to meet the needs of seniors and are free to those who hold SilverSneakers® or Renew

CONSUMERHEALTH

Active™ passes Don’t worry if you don’t have a pass, though. You can still attend classes for a small drop-in fee - $5.50 for Longmont residents and $6.25 for non-residents.

Parkinson’s disease: Are you at risk?

of Parkinson’s disease are due to a loss of neurons that produce a chemical messenger in your brain called dopamine When dopamine levels decrease, it causes atypical brain activity, leading to impaired movement and other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

kinson’s disease for each of these genetic markers

Environmental triggers

Exposure to certain toxins or environmental factors may increase the risk of later Parkinson’s disease, but the risk is small.

kinson’s disease

Sex

Men are more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than women.

Exposure to toxins

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. People with Parkinson’s disease can experience tremors, slowed movement, rigid muscles, loss of automatic movements, speech and writing changes, and impaired posture and balance An estimated 1 million people in the U.S. and more than 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s disease, according to the American Parkinson Disease Association.

In Parkinson’s disease, certain nerve cells in the brain, called neurons, gradually break down or die. Many of the symptoms

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

The cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but several factors appear to play a role, including:

Genes

Researchers have identified specific genetic changes that can cause Parkinson’s disease. But these are uncommon except in rare cases with many family members affected by Parkinson’s disease. However, certain gene variations appear to increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease but with a relatively small risk of Par-

Risk factors for Parkinson’s disease include:

Age

Young adults rarely experience Parkinson’s disease It ordinarily begins in middle or later life, and the risk increases with age. People usually develop the disease when they are 60 or older.

Heredity

Having a close relative with Parkinson’s disease increases the chances that you’ll develop the disease. However, your risks are still small, unless you have many relatives in your family with Par-

Ongoing exposure to herbicides and pesticides can slightly increase your risk of Parkinson’s disease

TREATMENT

There is no cure for Parkinson ’ s disease, but medications can help control the symptoms, often dramatically. If you’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you’ll need to work closely with your health care professional to find a treatment plan that offers you the greatest relief from symptoms with the fewest side effects In more advanced cases, surgery may be advised.

We

Laurel Kelly, Mayo Clinic News Network (TNS)

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