Nov. 2023 Edition - Aging Well Newsletter

Boulder County Colorado sent this bulletin at 11/03/2023 03:21 PM MDT

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Issue 90

Advocacy Alert

The Boulder County Area Agency on Aging is one of 16 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in Colorado and 622 across the United States and its territories. While older adult populations continue to grow in communities across the country, and rapidly in Colorado, our Federal and state funds do not automatically increase so we can continue to serve older adults and caregivers at the same rate or grow our services. AAAs are mandated to provide or fund services like meals, transportation, caregiver support, health promotion, benefits enrollment, in-home services, and more.

Take a look at the projected growth of Boulder County's aging population below according to the Colorado State Demography Office.

The fact that our population is shifting should not come as a surprise to anyone. We think what has been startling for most organizations and people we connect with is the projected change in Boulder County's 80+ population. As of July 2021, our 80+ population is at 11,111. The State Demography Office projects that this population will more than triple to 38,397 over the next 27 years. This is a 246% increase. This is not to say that the needs of an 80+ population are homogenous, but additional supports will be needed by most in our later years.

Funding for AAAs must increase to meet the needs of an increasing population combined with a higher cost to provided services due to inflation in a high cost of living area. We are at a critical point where the number of services we can provide and the number of people we can serve is decreasing as our population increases.

Alongside our national advocacy organization supporting area agencies on aging, USAging, we have prioritized funding for AAAs as the top need for the foreseeable future. Learn more about USAging's Policy Priorities here. On Nov. 1, USAging sent this letter to the Appropriations Committee.

The Colorado Association for Area Agencies on Aging (c4a), which brings together state AAA directors, along with our partners have contacted Governor Polis' office about the need for an increased budget twice in the past few months.

On Nov. 1, 2023 the Governor's Office released the FY2024-25 Budget Request. Although c4a, representing AAAs across Colorado requested a $5 million dollar base budget increase for State Funds for Senior Services, the request was not met. The $5 million request would begin to address the increased need and impacts of inflation on service provision, but additional monies will be needed over time. Learn more about the Governor's Budget Request here.

This is where you come in.

Both organizations and individuals can join us in this effort by contacting your elected officials at the state and Federal level to encourage them to increase funding for AAAs so that we can continue to provide, and even increase, our home- and community-based services that support older adults aging in our community and their caregivers.

If you would like to join us in advocating for increased funding for the Older Americans Act (federal) and state funds for senior services, please contact your federal legislators and share your concerns!

Contact the White House

Find Your Federal Elected Officials

Contact the Office of Governor Jared Polis

Find Your Colorado Legislators

Boulder County and Our Partners Are Honoring Veterans in November

Longmont Veterans Day Parade – Join organizations across Boulder County on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023 for the Longmont Veterans Day Parade. The parade begins at 11:11 a.m. and runs south on Main St. from 8^th, turns west on 3^rd Ave., and heads north on Coffman St., ending at 8^th.

Boulder County Veterans Service Officers - The Boulder County Veteran Service Office provides U.S. military Veterans and their dependents with access to benefits through local, state, federal, and nonprofit programs. Our accredited officers provide assistance with advising, educating, and submission of VA disability benefits and their programs. The Veteran Service Office is not an entity of the Veterans Administration but is licensed and accredited representatives of the Veteran’s Benefits Administration. Boulder County’s Veteran Services Officers (VSOs) are pleased to serve those who have served our country and their dependents. Learn more at boco.org/VeteranServices.

Veterans Stand Down – Veterans in need or experiencing homelessness are invited to attend the Veterans Stand Down to connect to resources including VA benefits/PACT Act, housing and employment connections, basic medical services, laundry, clothing, haircuts, showers, legal information, and much more. Breakfast and lunch will be served. View and print the flyer for the Stand Down here.

When: Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: American Legion John Harold Buckley Post 32 (315 South Bowen St., Longmont)

Caregiver Appreciation Open House

Our Caregiver Initiative Program is focused on empowering and supporting caregivers of older adults in Boulder County and wants to recognize the important, rewarding, and challenging role of being a caregiver.

We invite informal caregivers of adults over 60 and adults with dementia in Boulder County to
book a session to meet one on one with a Caregiver Resource Specialists and attend our Caregiver
Appreciation Open House! We will have refreshments, a caregiver guidebook and kit, time to learn about the Boulder County Caregiver Initiative, and the opportunity to meet with partners who support caregivers including home care agencies.

What: Caregiver Appreciation Open House
When: Nov. 16, 2023, 4-6 p.m.
Where: Southeast Community Hub
(1755 S. Public Rd. Room 133, Lafayette, CO 80026)

Registration for this event is not required.

Please call 303-441-1617 or email [email protected] by Nov. 24 to book your personal session with a caregiver resource specialist.

Join a Medicare Basics Class

Our lively and entertaining Medicare Basics classes are designed to provide the necessary information to older adults, and those caring for older adults, when getting ready to apply for Medicare.

Participants will learn about how and when to enroll, the different parts of Medicare, what is covered and what is not, Medicare fraud, and much more!

Interested participants will need internet, a computer, tablet, or phone, and the appropriate application for the class. Once registered, participants will receive instruction on how to join the class. This online course uses Zoom. Upcoming classes are set for:

Wednesday, Nov. 8, 6-7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 16, 10-11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 13, 6-7:30 p.m.

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

boco.org/Medicare

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

Study Volunteers Needed

Study volunteers are needed for research at the University of Colorado Boulder Integrative Physiology of Aging Lab. The study purpose is to investigate the effects of about 12 weeks of supervised water immersion in a hot tub on blood pressure and artery health.

Participants will receive physical exam, complete blood panel, exercise stress test, blood pressure screening, and monetary compensation for time.

The lab is looking for people who are 40+, willing to undergo about three hot tub sessions per week for 12 weeks, and have above normal blood pressure (a top number of 115 or higher).

For more information, please email [email protected] or call 970-460-8970.

HOPE Lights the Night

The HOPE Coalition invites community member sto remember those lost to us by suicide for the 15th annual candlelight gathering, "HOPE Lights the Night" on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. The non-denominational event will be held at the Community United Church of Christ (2650 Table Mesa Dr., Boulder). This free program includes music, responsive readings, a symbolic lighting of candles, and brief comments about how suicide affects us all.

Learn more here.

Loose throw rugs are a common tripping hazard in homes and can easily be removed to reduce your risk or tripping and falling. Reduce your risk of falling by bringing a throw rug to a participating location this fall and receive a free mug.

Learn more here.

October was Resident Rights Month. This year's theme was "Amplify Our Voices," marking a time to connect with the people who live in assisted living and nursing homes in our community.

The Boulder County Long-Term Care Ombudsman program took some time to gather thoughts from residents of assisted living and nursing homes. We heard that residents “all have choices, it should be your own choice…I want to make decisions,” “that makes me happy,” and “we should get to choose, we’re adults for Pete’s sake!”

October has been a great reminder to listen to and hear from our community members who live in long-term care. The Boulder County Long-Term Care Ombudsman program provides ongoing support for residents of assisted living and nursing homes.

Learn more at boco.org/LTCO.

Living in long-term care can be challenging when it comes to relationships between residents and staff. There are many regulations to follow that further complicate this care.

You can be a part of this advocacy program by volunteering with us. Learn more in the next article!

Volunteer with Us!

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

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

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

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

For more information contact [email protected] or submit your volunteer application.

Check Out Our Healthy Aging Programs!

Questions? Email [email protected].

Fresh Conversations

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

When: Wednesday, Nov. 8, 1-2 p.m.

Where: Zoom

Topic: Fiber: What Is It and How Can It Benefit You

Register here.

Questions? Please email [email protected].

Diabetes Support Group

"Healthy Eating During the Holidays"

This session is conducted by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who is also a Certified Diabetes Educator.  

When: Nov. 20, 11 a.m.- noon

Where: Virtual

Register: Please call 303-678-6115. You will be sent a Zoom link to join virtually or by phone.   

Nutrition Counseling

Individualized counseling and coaching from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist are available for Boulder County residents. Call 303-678-6115 (English) or 720-930-0223 (en español) with your contact information.

The Boulder County Area Agency on Aging (BCAAA) Caregiver Initiative is focused on empowering and supporting caregivers of older adults. Learn more about what we offer at boco.org/Caregiving.

Upcoming Caregiving Events

Your Circle of Care – for Care Providers

Tuesday, Nov. 14, 10-11:30 a.m.

The dementia caregiver death rate is staggeringly high. Unless the Caregiver prepares to turn care giving and focus back on themselves, their families lose BOTH the Care Recipient and the Caregiver; our communities lose wisdom and guidance. This session will prepare the caregiver for self-compassion, and will include self-measurement tools for anxiety, depression, stress, and grief.

Register for "Your Circle of Care - for Care Providers" here.

Caregiver Appreciation Open House

Details above!

Check out the printable flyer here.

Disclaimer: Boulder County Community Services is not a healthcare provider and cannot provide medical advice. This resource is provided for informational purposes only. Individuals should seek medical advice directly from a licensed medical professional.

Ask a Caregiving Expert

Dear BCAAA,

I help my parent with many caregiving tasks, including getting prescriptions filled and picked up. Until now, I have only had to buy things OTC (over the counter), and with everything I have going on, it is one more thing that doesn’t make sense and can seem overwhelming and stressful. Could you please explain the process and provide some hints about how to make it work easier?

Signed, A Concerned Caregiver

A pharmacy technician helped BCAAA answer this question from our concerned caregiver this month.

Dear Concerned Caregiver,

Thank you for reaching out to BCAAA, we are here to help you navigate challenges associated with caregiving.

Finding the right pharmacy can sometimes be quite a task. Close-by is convenient but may not necessarily be the right fit for you. I recommend that you start out by calling the pharmacy just to see if you are able to speak to someone. It is important to know that if you ever have questions you are able to reach someone.

Some basic information the pharmacy will need to process your prescriptions will be: Name, Date-of-Birth (DOB); Address; Phone number; Allergies; and if the patient is on Medicare. (Now is the time to reevaluate the Medicare D - or Drug plan, which is an add-on from regular Medicare A and B.) Always have that prescription card on you with your medical cards because the pharmacy may need to enter that into the computer.

Understanding how a pharmacy works can improve this process.

Your physician calls in a prescription to your chosen pharmacy and that information is then typed and electronically submitted to your insurance carrier so they can ‘capture the claim’, or reimbursement, for that prescription.
The insurance provider then sends an approval back electronically that also includes how much to charge you, or what is called your co-pay amount. Many things can affect that cost: if your deductible has been met or not, whether the medication is on the approved formulary and at what tier, if the pharmacy chosen is in network, etc.
Once the approval happens, paperwork is generated, meaning the label is created and your medication is packaged and hung up by last name to await pick up.

Some pharmacies have systems that will text you when your prescription is filled and ready, or when it needs to be filled (as in a refill reminder) etc. However, not all pharmacy computer systems have that ability so you do need to be aware of just how many pills you have left in the bottle or if there are refills approved. This information is printed right on the label that is on the bottle or packaging.

Sometimes the pharmacy does not have medication in stock and it will need to be ordered. The turnaround is typically 24-hours. Because this time can vary, it is best to learn how the pharmacy will alert the patient once they are ready to distribute the prescription. Make sure they have your parents most current contact information as well yours. You can always give another contact person's name and number if you are not reachable.

Now, let's say that the pharmacy cannot get a particular medication for you because of a manufacturer backorder issue. (This is more common than people think). If you decide that in the interest of time you would like it to be filled at a different pharmacy who has it in stock, you will need to request that the doctor calls it into another pharmacy AND THEY then need to ensure that the original pharmacy "reverses" the claim so another pharmacy can fill it. What I mean by this is if a prescription is "filled" or processed by your insurance, the claim is paid to that specific pharmacy who made the initial claim. Once that has occurred, another pharmacy cannot bill for that medication because it has already been paid to the first requesting pharmacy. Reversing the claim allows you to fill that medication elsewhere by either transferring the prescription or having the doctor send a new e-script to the pharmacy that does have the medication.

Some pharmacies offer shipping or delivery services. Some will have additional charges for those services. Always ask.

Independent pharmacies are rare but if you can find one, ask them as many questions as you can think of. Those pharmacies are competing with the big corporations and usually offer better customer service because they work one-on-one with the patient and take the time to make sure one can get what they need in a more personable manner. Independent pharmacies will sometimes have contracts with a delivery service for long term care facilities and might have guidelines on filling prescriptions for these locations, so be sure to ask about that if this applies to your parent.

Take good care,

Your BCAAA Caregiving Team

Karen MacFarlane, CPht is has been a certified pharmacy technician since 2001 and has worked in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, and Colorado. She states that she “absolutely loves her work and trying to help people navigate this pharmacy landscape since it has been very turbulent since 2020”. She asks that questions related to this article be directed to her place of work at 303-440-3111 or you can look for her on Facebook.

Call the BCAAA at 303-441-1617 or visit BoulderCountyhelp.org to learn about local assistance.

City of Longmont Senior Services

The Longmont Senior Center (LSC) is OPEN Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Their resource specialists and counselors are now offering home visits and in-person appointments.

Check out classes from City of Longmont Senior Services at www.longmontcolorado.gov/GO.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 303-651-8411

Caregiver Services for friends or family members caring for an older adult in Longmont include:

Caregiver Consultations and Family Meetings: Referrals & information about adult day programs, home health care, long-term care, counseling, caregiver self-care, etc.
Respite & Companion Volunteer Program and Respite Assistance referrals: Volunteers matched with older adults who live alone or with a family caregiver provide respite, a friendly visit, and a caring connection. Respite Assistance funds can help pay for respite care for a caregiver.
Social Groups and Educational Programs for family caregivers and those living with dementia (options may vary quarterly).
Caregiver Support Groups provide information and support for family caregivers; no registration required:

1st Monday, 6–7:30 p.m. at Longmont Senior Center
2nd Tuesday, noon – 1:30 p.m. (Alzheimer’s Assn. group) at Longmont Senior Center

Questions? Call Brandy Queen with City of Longmont Senior Services at 303-651-8414.

City of Boulder Older Adult Services offers a variety of health and wellness, lifelong learning, aging in place, special interest groups, and travel/trip opportunities. Many programs are offered online as well as in-person at the East and West Age Well Centers. Case Managers are available to assist City of Boulder residents 60+ and their caregivers with referrals to community resources, options counseling, and financial support for eligible clients. To speak with a Case Manager, please call 303-441-4388.

For a complete list of October programs and services, please visit the website to view the “Let’s Age Well!” program guide. For weekly updates, register online to receive the Age Well e-Newsletter.

Featured November Programs

Feldenkrais: Move with Ease

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

Chair-Based Series

West Age Well Center, Mondays, Nov. 6–Dec. 18 (NO class 11/20), 1–2:30 p.m. Fees: R/NR $60/$75.

Mat-Based Series

East Age Well Center, Tuesdays, Nov. 7–Dec. 12, 2:30–4 p.m. Fees: R/NR $60/$75.

Holiday Scams

Online, Tuesday, Nov. 7, 1–2 p.m.

Learn about holiday scams and frauds and how to prevent identity theft. Presented by Community Protection Division, Boulder County District Attorney’s Office.

Active Minds: Water in Colorado

West Age Well Center, Wednesday, Nov. 8, 1–2 p.m.

Join Active Minds to discuss Colorado’s water history, current challenges, and what the future holds for human use of this resource.

Tech: How to Access Health Accounts and Medicare/Medicaid Information on a Computer or Mobile Phone

Learn how to access and use online healthcare accounts and systems, including remote meetings with healthcare professionals. Sponsored by Boulder County Area Agency on Aging.Choice of two formats:

IN-PERSON Class

West Age Well Center, Tuesday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m.–Noon

ONLINE Class

Online, Wednesday, Nov 15, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia

West Age Well Center, Wednesday, Nov. 15, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Learn about the impact of Alzheimer's, the difference between Alzheimer's and other dementias, stages and risk factors, current research, treatments available for some symptoms, and Alzheimer's Association resources.

Managing Holiday Treats and Stress

East Age Well Center, Thursday, Nov. 16, 10–11:30 a.m.

Review ways to create a mind-body approach to how to enjoy the holidays with foods that stabilize, instead of increase, blood sugar and stress.

Online Technology Class: Using Food Delivery Apps

Online, Thursday, Nov. 30, 2–3:15 p.m.

Learn how to use online apps to order and get groceries or restaurant meals delivered.

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

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Meals on Wheels’ Eat Well Café: Monday – Friday, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

East Age Well Center: 5660 Sioux Drive, Boulder | 303-413-7290

Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Town of Erie Parks & Recreation - Active Adults

Erie Active Adults staff are available, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 303-926-2795

The Town of Erie's Active Adults program provides a Senior Nutrition Lunch Program at the Erie Community Center.

Reservations are required by calling 303-926-2569 or emailing [email protected] prior to the meal date.

Check out upcoming Active Adults programming here.

Veterans Day Celebration

Friday, Nov. 10, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

The event features a flag ceremony, Veterans Day speech, Hometown Hero banner unveiling, music performed by Erie High School Choir, and light refreshments. We honor all our veterans for their service to our country. Past and current members of the military are welcome and encouraged to wear their uniforms. Registration deadline November 5. Sponsored by Oasis Senior Advisor and the Town of Erie.

Bingo

Tuesday, Nov. 14, 1-2 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 12, 1-2 p.m.

Join the fun in this friendly game of BINGO and an afternoon of connecting with friends. Registration is not required. Prizes sponsored by The Bridge at Longmont.

Beginning Drawing

Fridays, Nov. 17-Dec. 15, Noon-2:30 p.m. (No class Nov. 24 or Dec. 1)

The fee is $84 for residents and $105 for non-residents.

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

The Lafayette Senior Center (103 S. Iowa Avenue) is open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Call 303-665-9052 or email [email protected] to register. For more information, visit lafayetteco.gov/seniors.

Louisville Senior Services

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

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

Louisville Senior Services Thanksgiving Feast

Thursday, Nov. 16, Noon-1 p.m., Louisville Recreation & Senior Center

Louisville Senior Services will provide the main meal of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetable, cranberry sauce, and a roll. If your last name begins with: A-H, bring a Salad to share; I-P, bring a Veggie to share; Q-Z, bring a Dessert to share. This event is free with a suggested donation of $4.25 for people ages 60+; for people who are 59 years old & younger the cost is $12.