Late-in-life changes Conversation and understanding helps Page 6
A special supplement of
Grow your finances in retirement 4 Strategies that work Page 12
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Senior Solutions
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Table of Contents Page Content
3. JERRY HEALEY ERIN ADDENBROOKE Special Projects Manager THELMA GRIMES Production Manager ERIN FRANKS Page Design BEN WIEBESIEK Advertising Design LISA ALLISON BRANDON EAKER TINA MELTZER Advertising Sales DAWN BRANDT ANN-MARIE MEYN MINDY NELON BARB STOLTE MEREDITH THOMPSON Owner/Publisher
Advertising Manager
To advertise call:
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The 2017 Fall Senior Solutions Section is a special supplement of Colorado Community Media, publisher of 18 weekly community papers and websites reaching over 300,000 readers.
4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 12. 15.
SENIOR RESOURCE DIVISION HELPFUL TO AGING POPULATION AGING WELL PROGRAM IDENTIFIES KEY ISSUES FACING SENIORS HEALTH FIRST LONG TERM SERVICES UNDERSTANDING LATE-IN-LIFE CHANGES SENIOR PROPERTY TAX DEFERRAL LOANS DEALING WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE RESOURCES FOR THE AGING ADULT SMART FASHION TIPS FOR 60 AND OVER GROW YOUR FINANCES IN RETIREMENT GUARDING AGAINST FINANCIAL SCAMS
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Senior Solutions
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Arapahoe County Senior Resource Division aims to help more than 67,000
CAITLIN WILSON ARAPAHOE COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
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ore than 67,000 senior citizens call Arapahoe County home, and the aging population is growing. The Arapahoe County Community Resources Senior Resources Division provides programs to assist seniors in maintaining a healthy, active and independent life.
Chore Services and Homemaker programs The Chore Services and Homemaker program provides eligible seniors with free light housekeeping and assistance with heavier chores. Homemaker services can include general routine light cleaning, including changing bed linens, doing laundry, vacuuming and dusting on a biweekly basis for up to 90 minutes. Chore services includes fall or spring yard work, washing outdoor first-floor windows, major household cleaning and organizing and other services. There are income-eligibility requirements to participate in the homemaker program, and services are only available to those who are 60-years-old or over. The program does not provide pet or personal health care. To apply for Homemaker or Chore services, call 303-738-8080. For information about other inhome services that may be available through the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCG) Area Agency on Aging, call 303-4806700. Senior Transportation Program Arapahoe County’s Senior Transportation Program helps seniors live independently in their communities by providing transportation
to medical appointments, dining centers, grocery stores and food banks. The Senior Resource Center offers rides to seniors 60 years and older who are on small, wheelchairaccessible vehicles. To schedule a trip, call 303-2356972, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rides must be scheduled seven days in advance and medical appointments need to be scheduled between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Veterans Services Veterans Services provides assistance for senior residents who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and their dependents to obtain Veterans Affairs benefits for which they may be eligible. The Veterans Service Office assists with burial benefits, education benefits, pension, disability compensation, survivor benefits and health care enrollment. The Veterans Service Office is located in Littleton. To schedule an appointment, call 303-738-8045, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Job-search assistance Arapahoe County also provides job-search assistance and training for mature job seekers through Arapahoe/Douglas Works. The Generations at Work Resource Cen-
Arapahoe County Chore Services provides assistance to keep seniors in their homes. PROVIDED BY ARAPAHOE COUNTY ter, located in Centennial, is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call 303-636-1160. State and federal assistance Arapahoe County Human Services also provides Senior Services. They can connect citizens to a wide variety of state and federal assistance programs including food, financial and medical benefits for low-income families and individuals, including the elderly and disabled.
Human Services also offers protective services to seniors and can investigate reports of abuse, neglect or financial exploitation, as well as make referrals to community resources. Human Services can be reached at 303-636-1130, with offices located in Aurora and Littleton. Arapahoe County is committed to providing service first and ensuring our seniors maintain a good quality of life through these free programs. For more information, visit www.arapahoegov.com.
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Community group works to identify key issues facing the aging population KARIN STEWART PROGRAM MANAGER, JEFFERSON COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES, AGING & ADULT SERVICES
Jefferson County Department of Human Services, under the direction of Lynn Johnson, is proud of a cutting-edge initiative called Aging Well Jefferson County. The Strategic Plan for Aging Well in Jefferson County began its work in 2008 with the gathering of community experts in the field of aging. Community partners, with Jefferson County Department of Human Services leading the charge, realized that an aging population meant changes in service delivery were needed in the county. A Leadership Committee steers the activities of the community-wide committee and Karin Steward, with the county’s Human Services department, guides the project by bringing community members together and identifying key issues facing seniors each year. Members of the leadership committee and the workgroups continue to work to put these goals
in action. increasing in age and JefThe leadership comferson County Human mittee is split into Services is commitsix workgroups to ted to providing address the folthe best services lowing areas: to aging adults. • Basic Needs Jefferson • Caregiving County Hu& Supportive man Services Services is also known • Health, for strong Mental collaborative Health, partnerWellness & ships. The Prevention program • Housing is aimed • Social & at working Civic Engageharder each ment year to better • Transportation/ serve customers. Local Coordinating The leadership Council for Human committee and the Services Transportation workgroup members, Serving Jefferson County all volunteering their time, SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE A program such as this also work throughout the is vital to the area because year to implement the goals Jefferson County has one of and objectives they develthe largest aging populations in the oped. They continue to work hard state. This population is steadily on all aspects of the plan in their
own agencies as well as part of the community-wide group. Generating an annual report, the group summarizes the accomplishments of partner agencies and each workgroup. Some of the initial goals and objectives have changed as the community environment has changed economically, politically, and in other ways. The report, strategic plans, and all of the information from the project can be found on the Jefferson County Aging Well website at http://jeffco. us/human-services/aging-and-adultservices/aging-well-project/. While happy with the program’s continued success since 2008, Jefferson County officials still agree there is a lot of work to be done, and it is only through volunteers on the project that the activities in the work plans are being carried out by the partner agencies around the table to make Jefferson County the best place to age. To volunteer with the Aging Well Project, contact Karin Stewart at kstewart@jeffco.us, or call 303-2714251.
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Senior Solutions
Health First Colorado Long Term Services provides medical and non-medical assistance KARIN STEWART PROGRAM MANAGER, JEFFERSON COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES, AGING & ADULT SERVICES
If you need help with your daily activities because of a chronic illness or disabling condition, you may be eligible for assistance through long-term care services and supports. Long Term Services and Supports is part of the Health First Colorado program. Formerly Medicaid, Health First Colorado, helps people of any age
who have a chronic illness or condition and have difficulty caring for themselves for a long period of time. These services can be both medical including, medication assistance, wound care, or prescribed services. Non-medical services includes helping individuals with daily activities such as eating, bathing oversight, cooking, dressing, and other routine tasks. Services can be provided at home, in the community, in an assisted living facility, or in a nursing care facility.
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To qualify for Health First Colorado Long Term Services and Supports, you must meet the following Criteria: •Have a financial need. You must have limited income and assets. You should apply at the Department of Human Services in the county where you live to determine qualifying income levels. •Have a functional need. You must need help with daily tasks including bathing, dressing, or eating. You should apply at the Single-Entry Point agency in the county
where they live. If you, or a loved one, needs assistance, call 303-271-4707 for more information, or visit this website: at http://jeffco.us/humanservices/health-benefits/long-term-care To complete an online application, visit http://jeffco.us/human-services/financialassistance/peak
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Understanding late-in-life changes requires conversation and understanding ANNE MOSBACH LCSW/DOUGLAS COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVE COORDINATOR
Sustaining mental, physical and emotional well-being is as important in older adults as in any other time of life. Aging is also accompanied by some of the most impactful, profound transitions that life brings, including new routines, employment identity, income, and the loss of a partner. Some older adults experience a renaissance during this time. Late-in-life changes open a new world to explore, through travel, retirement and relationships. Others, who encounter difficult and sometimes tragic life changes, can experience strain in adapting to new circum-
stances. Changes are inevitable, but how do you know if you or a loved one needs additional support and services to help cope with the challenges that comes with aging? It’s important to talk about aging with your medical professional and those who are close to you. Shared experiences provide a powerful path to understanding and connection. Conversations can and should include everything from a sense of security and independence, to housing and transportation strategies. Although the conversations can be difficult to begin, the expression of both the challenges and rewards of aging help promote connection, emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction for older adults.
SOLSTOCK
There are plenty of ways to start the conversations you need to have. As laid out by the website, AgingCare.com, some helpful ways to navigate important discussions is by following the acronym, C-A-R-E, which includes the following. Connection: Take time to ‘get to know’ each other in a different way. The goal is to understand the older adult’s relationships with their own aging relatives, past and present. Asking questions about other relationships and the impact they have can shed new light on an individual’s experience with and attitude toward aging.
Aging: Explore the experience of interacting with aging relatives. Have they experienced their own aging or that of their families as stressful? Have health problems played a large role? What about experiences as a caregiver for older family members?
Recent Event: This step helps clarify perceptions of events related to the process of aging and gives insight into how the older adult feels about the way the situation was managed. How does the older adult feel about watching peers age? Are there examples of transitioning into senior years that they liked or disliked?
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Every detail: This step is about learning exactly how the older adult would want support and assistance in specific situations. Now that the groundwork has been laid by the first three steps, the family or support network will hopefully have a basic understanding of each other’s perspectives and preferences. Now is the time to talk about exactly what the older adult needs to feel a sense of safety, independence and self-determination. The more trusted members there are in the support network of an older adult, and the more proactive and honest the conversations around this topic are, the better the outcome will be for the older adult and their family.
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Are you eligible for a Senior Property Tax Deferral Loan? Apply for a Senior Deferral Loan through your county Douglas County: Visit the Douglas County Treasurer’s website at goo.gl/Ag7P1S, call 303-6607455, or email DCTreasurer@douglas.co.us to schedule an appointment. Arapahoe County: Visit the website at goo.gl/ roV7Y5, or call 303-795-4600. Jefferson County: Visit the website at goo.gl/ C8iBsw, or by call 303-271-8330. Adams County: Visit the website at goo.gl/ DSKUj1, or call 720-523-6160 FSTOP123
DIANE HOLBERT DOUGLAS COUNTY TREASURER
In budgeting for your 2018 property tax payment, are finding that you are struggling to make ends meet? Have you identified a different purpose for your equity? If so, a Senior Deferral Loan might be the answer for you. This is a program that is administered through the State Treasurer’s office and applied for through the County Treasurer’s office. Principal and Interest accrue yearly and the loan is due and payable upon the sale or transfer of the property. The Interest rate varies yearly (2% in 2017) and is calculated from the 10year Treasury as of Feb. 1. You are eligible to qualify for the loan program if you are 65 on or before Jan. 1, 2018, the property you are seeking assistance for is your primary residence (non-income producing) and maintains a minimum of 25% equity. All previous years’ taxes must be current, and in the application process, you may find that other restrictions may apply.
If the cumulative total of the liens on your residence exceeds 75% of the Market Value (Assessed Actual Value), you may still apply with an executed subordination agreement. This program may also be used in conjunction with the Senior Homestead Exemption program. To be considered for a Senior Deferral Loan, applications must be submitted between Jan. 1 and March 30, 2018. For more information Douglas County residents can visit the Douglas County Treasurer’s website at goo.gl/Ag7P1S, call 303-660-7455, or email DCTreasurer@douglas.co.us to schedule an appointment. Arapahoe County residents can learn more by visiting the website at goo.gl/roV7Y5, or calling 303-7954600. Jefferson County residents can apply for the Senior Deferral Loan at goo.gl/C8iBsw, or by calling 303271-8330. Adams County residents can learn more about the tax exempt program by visiting the website at goo.gl/ DSKUj1, or call 720-523-6160
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Frequently asked questions about the Senior Deferral Loan Program
Q: Who qualifies for a deferral? A: Colorado residents 65 or older may defer or postpone property tax payment on their residence. Q: What are the eligibility requirements? A: You must be 65 or older on January 1 of the year claimed. You must not be earning any income, such as rent, from your property. You must own and occupy your residence.
All property taxes for previous years must have been paid, either by you or the state though its deferral program. If your home is subject to a mortgage less than five years old, you must obtain a subordination agreement from the lender. This means the mortgage holder agrees that the state’s interest in the property would legally come before the mortgage holder’s interest in the property. Q: What happens after applying? A: If approved, the county treasurer will issue a Certificate of Deferral, record it and send the certificate to the state treasurer. The state treasurer
will charge you interest on the amount deferred beginning May 1 of the year in which the deferral is claimed. The interest is compounded annually. The deferred taxes may be paid at any time without affecting your deferral eligibility. Q: When must deferred taxes be paid? A: The claimant dies (unless the surviving spouse is 60 or older and meets all other requirements and elects to continue the deferral). The property is sold or the title is transferred to another person. The claimant begins to rent the property or otherwise receives income from it.
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A doctor’s guide to dealing with Alzheimer’s disease
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lzheimer’s is a confounding disease, even for doctors. Neurologist Dr. Suzanne Lesage, of Salida, understands. Through her role with the Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center, she sees new patients who may be concerned about memory loss. Lesage also counsels others living with the diagnosis on how to best cope with a disease for which there is currently only treatment of symptoms, but no cure. In a July informational session conducted for more than 50 community members by the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado, Lesage joined fellow neurologist Dr. Yvonne Rollins and Ann Carter, regional director of the Southern Colorado Region of the Alzheimer’s Association, to discuss the basics of memory loss and dementia, answering questions re-
garding the challenges the disease poses for individuals, caregivers and doctors. “Dementia is slow in developing,” said Dr. Suzanne Lesage Lesage. “We can offer a diagnosis based on symptoms, but even under the broad umbrella of dementia, there are multiple types, including Alzheimer’s, vascular, Lewy body, frontotemporal and others, and some patients may be living with more than one.” Doctor’s advice Even with the uncertainty surrounding dementia, and
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specifically Alzheimer’s, Lesage counsels her patients and their families that there are specific steps they should take to ensure the best care for loved ones who are either dealing with a dementia diagnosis or have concerns about the disease: Be proactive — “At the primary care level, people must be proactive with their doctors,” said Lesage. “There is a huge spectrum among doctors regarding their comfort level with dementia. Some feel, because there’s currently no cure, that there’s not much they can do. Because some doctors may be reluctant to issue a dementia diagnosis, there is a risk that they will not provide the guidance that families need to take appropriate steps. “A diagnosis gives hope and clarity to the patient. At least they know what they’re dealing with.” Free 24/7 Helpline – A referral to a neurologist can lead to a proper diagnosis. The Alzheimer’s Association’s free 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) is another resource for direction. Rapid Referral – Lesage is a strong advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association Rapid Referral program, which is a tool for doctors to put the individual and their caregivers in touch with a full range of services that physicians are not in a position to provide. These services are free of charge. If there is concern about or discussion of dementia, or Alzheimer’s in particular, Lesage said there are specific subjects that she raises with her families that should be addressed with the primary care physician, including: Medications that may provide some benefits Counseling for the individual and family Driving considerations and potential restrictions Medical power of attorney and when it should be transferred Types of in-home and residential care that families can consider
Opportunities for financial assistance Referrals to support groups, like those provided by the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado Get support – Caregivers need to understand that they do not have to face this situation alone. In addition to support groups, families can reach out to their regional Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado office or call the free 24/7 Helpline to schedule a Care Consultation. In addition, there is a broad range of resources available in terms of educational information, message boards, classes, clinical trials and newsletters from the Alzheimer’s Association, all provided to the public at no charge. In addition, Lesage said that individuals should rely on their primary care physician for medical information and guidance. Continue living – Lesage emphasizes that an Alzheimer’s diagnosis doesn’t mean the person’s life is over. She stresses that there can be significant quality of life, even later in the disease’s progression. She notes that she has helped devise travel plans for families where a loved one has advanced Alzheimer’s. “Even if they don’t remember the trip, they can enjoy the day,” she said, adding that new memories are created for loved ones. “The goal I set is for my patients with dementia to stay in the home until it’s time for them to move into hospice care,” said Dr. Lesage. “It’s not appropriate for all, since caregiving capacity is very individual but, for many, there is still good quality of life close to its end.” The Alzheimer’s Association Colorado Chapter is the premier source of information and support for the more than 69,000 Coloradans with Alzheimer’s disease, their families and caregivers. For information call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 bilingual Helpline at 800-272-3900, or visit www.alz.org/co.
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Community and state resources for the aging adult
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Seniors, Inc. - Personal Assistant Service If you are able to make responsible decisions about your financial affairs, but need assistance with monthly bill paying or record keeping in order to meet monthly financial obligations, we offer our Personal Assistant Service. This service assists with establishing a budget; reviewing bills for accuracy, preparing checks for client’s signature, balancing checkbook(s), organizing paperwork and other administrative services. This assistance is tailored for moderate to higher incomes and there is a fee involved. For more information, call 303-3006900, or visit the website at http:// myinnovage.org/.
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HealthSET Dedicated to improving the lives of Colorado’s low-income elderly citizens, HealthSET provides free health assessment and advocacy to low-income seniors in the Denver Area. Clinics are held monthly in 18 subsidized senior high-rise buildings in the metro area. Each month, staff and volunteer nurses and volunteer pharmacists give seniors wellness assessments, monitor health problems, provide counseling, educate residents about nutrition and provide referrals to other area health care resources. For more information, and to find a clinic near you, visit the website at https://www. centura.org/locations/healthset.
Seniors’ Resource Center - SRC Seniors’ Resource Center is dedicated to improving the quality of senior’s lives. They offer broad based community education along with information, select senior services, legal referral, transportation, employment resources, adult day care and financial assistance resources. The center is located at 3227 Chase St. in Denver. For more information, call 303-238-8151, or visit the website http://srcaging.org/.
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Department of Health Care Policy and Financing Serving Colorado’s low-income families, the elderly and persons with disabilities,the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing administers Medicaid and Child Health Plan Plus programs as well as a variety of other programs for Colorado’s low-income families, the elderly and persons with disabilities. For more information, visit the website at https://www.colorado. gov/.
uals who are having trouble paying their heating bills. Applicants must be 55 and over, live in the metro Denver area, and be at least one payment behind to be eligible. Additional conditions apply. For more information, call 303-300-6956, or visit the website at http://myinnovage.org/.
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Colorado Legal Services - CLS With Colorado Legal Services (CLS), clients who are 60 and over do not have to pay for the help if they meet certain limits of income and assets. CLS also looks at the type of legal problem to determine whether or not it falls within CLS priorities and whether the organization has the resources to provide the assistance at the time needed. CLS offices are located at 1905
Denver Human Services - Old Age Pension & Long Term Care Denver Human Services helps and protects people of all ages. Staff is on hand to listen, advise, and help people apply for public assistance programs. For older adults, programs include old-age pension for low-income adults, which gives financial and medical assistance to low-income seniors age 60 and older. Long-term care program links lowincome seniors and disabled adults to home-based, assisted living or nursing home services. For more information, call 720-9443666, or visit the website at http:// www.denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/denver-human-services.html.
of America (MOWAA) is the oldest and largest organization in the United States representing those who provide meal services to people in need. For Colorado services, visit the website at http://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/about-membership.
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BenefitsCheckUp The National Council of Aging created the Benefits Checkup program to help older adults quickly identify programs that may improve the quality of their lives. It takes about 10 or 15 minutes to enter information about your financial situation into an online questionnaire to see which benefits you may qualify for. For more information, visit the website at https://www.benefitscheckup. org/ . BenefitsCheckUp. Information provided on the site is completely confidential.
Sherman St., Suite 400, in Denver. For more information, call 303-8371313, or visit the website at http:// coloradolegalservices.org/.
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About Financial Assistance Financial assistance programs are most often based on need, with income and-or age a part of the qualifying for the assistance. Financial assistance can range from emergency shelter to food to assistance with utility bills, temporary rent assistance, disaster relief, and other emergency services meant to help a person get past a temporary financial set back. Actual monetary financial assistance can depend on the grants that a non-profit has at your time of need. Sometimes financial assistance may not be available due to grant funds being exhausted. Good places to start if you are in need of financial assistance include: 2-1-1: 2-1-1 is a free and confidential service provided by United Way and funded by community foundations, Federal, state and local governments. The 2-1-1 program serves all ages across the United States. Visit the www.211.org, for more information. Your Local Area Agency on Aging: For the elder care location, call 1-800677-1116. For older adults, your local Area Agency on Aging can be a referral source for food resources and other services that help seniors. Call the Eldercare Locator to find your local agency. To search for a nearby location online, visit the website at www.Eldercare.gov.
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Brandpoint Center — Muumuus and mom jeans or spangled capris and Aloha shirts - is this really all the fashion world has to offer women over the age of 60? Do mature women who desire to dress fashionably really have to choose between “frumpy and fogey” or “too young and trendy?” Not at all, says Catherine Brock, who blogs about style on thebudgetfashionista.com. “Reaching a certain age doesn’t mean you have to give up your love of fashion, or that you can’t be stylish,” Brock says. “In our youth-obsessed society, many fashion trends are geared for young women, but truly stylish clothing can work for women of any age.” Joyce Williams (name changed to protect her privacy), a resident of Brookdale Belle Meade Senior Living Community in Nashville, Tennessee, agrees. Williams didn’t leave her lifelong love of fashion behind upon moving into the senior community. Instead, she remains an avid reader of fashion magazines, and designs and makes her own jewelry to accessorize her wardrobe. She happily shares fashion advice with other residents who seek to remain stylish after 60. Here are some of Brock’s and Williams’ favorite tips and insights for senior women: Senior women can have trouble finding fashion images that feature women who could be their peers, Brock says. Because most clothing is marketed with images of younger models, many older women may worry about their clothes being “age-appropriate.” Don’t be limited by that kind of thinking, she advises. The age of the model wearing the fashion is far less important than whether the style will work for you. Look for garments that have a defined shape. You don’t have to wear formfitting clothing, but do avoid overalls or baggy, pull-on
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60-plus? Smart fashion tips to keep you looking stylish and fabulous
‘It’s never too late to discover your personal style.’ Catherine Brock, style blogger
You don’t have to choose between too old and too young in choosing your wardrobe after 60. Instead, you can take control of the wardrobe you want. MOODBOARD pants and maxi dresses with no waistline, Brock advises. Find your colors, Williams suggests. Everyone has certain colors that complement their skin tone, hair and eyes, and others that are less flattering. Determine which ones are yours and emphasize those colors in your wardrobe. Brock also counsels against putting too many colors in a single outfit, and says avoid wild color patterns. Instead, pick one piece in an outfit to make a color statement and use muted, complementary colors in the rest of the outfit to create a backdrop
for your statement color. Just as important as knowing your best colors, you should also know the visual line that looks best for your body type, Williams says. For example, if you’re pear-shaped, a line that draws attention to your shoulders can be flattering, Brock adds. Apple-shaped women may find an A-line skirt flattering since it creates an angle from the shoulder to the waist. Stay true to your own personal style, regardless of your age. “If you had a wellestablished personal style when you were younger, it doesn’t need to change
just because you’re older,” Brock says. “If anything, as you age, you can pay more attention to your personal style and be less of a slave to the season’s trends.” Adapt your younger style to your more mature place in life by focusing on creating outfits that make only one statement at a time, she advises. For example, wear that big, chunky turquoise necklace that you’ve always loved and pair it with an outfit that’s simple and straightforward like a pair of tailored jeans and a white blouse. Some styles work particularly well for senior women,
Brock says. Blazers and cardigans pair well with V-neck tops, sheath dresses, shift dresses and buttondown shirts. “In warmer months, V-neck tops with elbow-length sleeves are the new T-shirt for seniors,” she says. “Just add a necklace for a little sparkle.” Plus, every senior woman should have wardrobe staples such as a black blazer, white button-down shirt, dark-wash jeans, straightleg trousers, neutral-colored cardigans, a collection of dolman-sleeve tops and T-shirts with varying sleeve lengths and necklines. Never underestimate the power of great accessories, Williams says. The right jewelry can turn an ordinary outfit into something stunning, and you can change the entire look of an outfit simply by switching around your accessories. “It’s never too late to discover your personal style,” Brock says. “Start by creating a Pinterest board and saving looks you love (get a fashion-minded younger friend to help if you’re not tech-savvy). Then reacquaint yourself with your body type and go shopping with a friend. Try on different cuts of pants, skirts and dresses until you both agree on which are the most flattering. Find the cuts that look good on you and then start experimenting with colors and textures.”
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Parkside Village RetirementResort Our residents will experience luxury retirement living, made simple with all-inclusive amenities and services! Here’s what we have to offer:
24-hour professional staff/live-in managers 24-Hour emergency call system Resort Freedom Dining (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks) Room service and 24/7 Chef’s Pantry Utilities, cable, Internet & phone service Weekly housekeeping Scheduled transportation & valet parking Computer center Full kitchens with granite countertops 150-seat theater 24-hour fitness center
14501 E. Crestline Drive Aurora, CO 80015
SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY Join us for a Complimentary Lunch & Tour
Please call to learn about our Charter Residency Program:
720-370-5805
ParksideVillageRetirement.com
Embrace...your family Villagio Senior Living is a different type of Senior Living Company, with a different type of philosophy. Each day, when entering our communities, we are reminded of the responsibility we have and the opportunity to be different and better. An extraordinary level of thought and planning went into the design and services afforded at each community. Using research from the Alzheimer’s
Restrictions Apply
Association, studies from other Senior Living experts, Architects that specialize in health care, and Professionals from the Senior Care industry, we created new ideas and concepts to improve the lives of all of our residents. The most recent research, as well as good plain common sense, is built into the physical communities and services alike, in hopes that the lives of our residents are better for the effort.
Just a few examples of Villagio of Broomfield’s “Different and Better” Attributes: • Three delicious, Home-Style Meals served daily
Assisted Living & Memory Care that’s different by Design • High-quality care in a vibrant community that fits your budget • Denver’s newest, most innovative approach to senior living • Best staffing ratio in Colorado • All team members specialize in Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care ALL INCLUSIVE PRICING • NO HIDDEN FEES
Ask about our easy transfer options 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Merge onto I-25 N/US-87 N toward Ft Collins. 10.5.mi Take the 120th Avenue/CO-128 W exit, EXIT 223. .32 mi Keep left to take the 120th Ave ramp. .03 mi Turn left onto CO-128/E 120th Ave. Continue to follow E 120th Ave.3.92 mi Make a Left-turn at Greenway Dr., then next left onto 118th Ave. .45 mi Our Villagio community is located at 118th & Gray Street.
720-633-0075 | notero@villagioliving.com End at 11952 Gray Street (On the right.) www.villagioliving.com Broomfield, CO 80020
• Housekeeping with Linen Service
• Specialized Training and Activities for Memory Impairment or Alzheimer’s Disease
• A Washer and Dryer in every apartment!
• Unique “Villages” for a smaller and more intimate care experience
• Complimentary Scheduled Transportation to Medical Appointments and Errands
• Denver’s newest, most innovative approach to Senior Living
• All Utilities paid • 24-Hour Staffing and Assistance
• The Absolute Best Staffing ratio in Denver, and the Best Staff Too!!!
• Emergency Call devices in Each Apartment
• Mountain Views in the Heart of Broomfield, Colorado
It’s time Denver had a better option for Assisted Living, Villagio of Broomfield IS that option. We invite you to visit our community or website at www.villagioliving.com to learn more.
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Four strategies to grow your finances in retirement BRANDPOINT CENTER - Retirement is the time in your life when you can throw off the shackles of your daily responsibilities and truly enjoy the fruits of everything you spent years working toward. It’s an empowering feeling and you’ve earned it. You’ve planned and you’ve saved, but now that you’re here, don’t make the mistake of believing your financial planning is over. In fact, in some ways, it has only begun. Continuing to support your financial strength in retirement On the day you enter retirement, your financial focus shifts, but its importance doesn’t diminish. As a retiree, taking an annual review of your finances is more important than ever. You deserve to live the retirement you want. To be sure your finances are up to the task, here are a few specific items to review in your annual post-retirement financial checkup. BRANDPOINT CENTER
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Life expectancy When you first created your retirement plan, you likely discussed an end-of-life age with your adviser that you could use as a benchmark and plan toward. Now it’s time to revisit that age again and take an objective look in light of your overall health and any existing conditions you may have. And don’t be surprised if you find out you’re poised to live far longer than you expected all those years ago. It’s great news, but it also means you must adjust your finances accordingly.
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Life insurance Look at your life insurance policy. You should take the time to determine if it is still needed or affordable now that you’ve entered retirement. As you review your life insurance policy, you may determine you don’t need it anymore because your children are no longer dependent on you and you have minimal outstanding debts. You may also find that the premiums have increased in recent years and the policy is too costly to maintain. If this is the case, you may want to sell it. It’s one less financial burden you need to worry about, and the influx of additional cash will be a welcome surprise. It’s important to remember that your life insurance policy is your own personal property and you have the right to sell it, just as you would any other financial assets or physical possession. The sale of your policy to a third-party investor is known as a life settlement transaction, and selling the policy could bring you as much as seven times the amount you would earn for surrendering it. Typical candidates for a life settlement transaction are age 70 or older with a policy of $100,000 or more, according to the Life Insurance Settlement Association (LISA).
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Asset allocation During your working years, you probably reviewed your assets several times, and you may have even done some rebalancing to ensure you had the right mix of bonds, stocks and cash in your financial portfolio. But this practice doesn’t end simply because you’ve entered retirement. Look at your assets and take the opportunity to rebalance - just as you did during your working years - to ensure your money is meeting both your short-term needs and your long-term goals.
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Home equity Your home is often your most valuable asset. If you own the home where you live, take a moment to assess the amount of equity you have tied up in it. This may be the perfect time to downsize. You could also consider a reverse mortgage, which would allow you to convert some of the equity in your home into cash you could use for other needs. The money you acquire through a reverse mortgage or through the sale of your home via downsizing could then be used to invest in a fixed-income investment - such as annuities or bonds - that will provide ongoing income. Enjoy retirement on your terms Your working years may have ended, but your financial management is ongoing. Whether you manage your money yourself or you work with a financial adviser, take charge of your retirement by revisiting your assets and your options. Remember, you’ve worked hard for your retirement, and with a few small changes along the way, you have the ability to make it even greater.
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Welcome to the neighborhood. Most of us have fond memories of growing up in a neighborhood where we all knew each other, watched out for each other, felt comfortable and safe. This is why we have included “Neighborhood” in our name – we want you to recapture this wonderful part of your past. At Ralston Creek Neighborhood, you will make friends in your new neighborhood. The community will become your neighborhood, with dining, entertainment, fitness programs and social interaction. Ralston Creek Neighborhood also is part of the greater Arvada community, with its shopping, parks, movie theatres, churches and all that makes a neighborhood your home.
11825 West 64th Avenue, Arvada, CO 80004 (303)284-7813 | RalstonCreekNeighborhood.com
In The Moment At Lakewood Memory Care, we offer a comforting and supportive environment for residents with memory loss, as well as peace of mind for their families and loved ones. Lakewood Memory Care features the In The Moment® Memory Care Program, a holistic approach designed to meet residents in the moment they are experiencing and engage them kindly and compassionately to guide them through their day.
Our philosophy features the Six Elements of well-being, which address physical engagement, spiritual support, artistic expression, community connections, continuing education, and lifestyle and leisure. Our holistic approach is designed to engage a resident in unlimited ways throughout his or her day. In The Moment is more than a slogan, it is a feeling throughout the community. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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Sky Pointe
Sky Pointe Retirement Resort Get peace of mind and eliminate the surprises of home ownership.
All-inclusive, resort-style living means one monthly cost for all services and amenities. Our modern apartment homes will have open layouts, large rooms, walk-in closets, full kitchens and more. Call to learn about our priority list apartment selection program today.
720-325-1221
5842 S. Taft St. Littleton, CO 80127 SkyPointeRetirement.com
Getting you back in action. At Littleton Adventist Hospital, our experienced board certified orthopedic surgeons specilaize in providing the right surgery to meet your needs, and have the knowledge and resources to help you get back in action. We are the first hospital in Denver to offer robotic-arm assisted total knee, partial knee, and total hip replacements using the Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted surgery system, transforming the way joint replacement surgery is performed. To learn more about our orthopedics program, please visit mylittletonhospital.org.
We are part of Centura Health, the region’s leading health care network.
Centura Health does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion, creed, ancestry, sexual orientation, and marital status in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. For further information about this policy contact Centura Health’s Office of the General Counsel at 1-303-673-8166 (TTY: 711). Copyright © Centura Health, 2017. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-303-738-7781 (TTY: 711). CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1-303-738-7781 (TTY: 711).
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Beware of financial scams and elder abuse in your area Senior citizens are the target of several new attempts for suspects to get personal information. Officials are warning residents to be aware of some of texts or calls from someone pretending to be a friend or family member in need. Scammers may pose as relatives or friends, calling or sending messages to urge you to wire money immediately. They’ll say they need cash to help with an emergency – like getting out of jail, paying a hospital bill or needing to leave a foreign country. Their goal is to trick you into sending money before you realize it’s a scam. Things to be aware of include: They impersonate your loved one convincingly: Social networking sites make it easier than ever to find personal and family information. Scammers also could
hack into the e-mail account of someone you know. They play with your emotions: Scammers are banking on your love and concern to outweigh your skepticism. In one version, scammers impersonate grandchildren in distress to trick concerned grandparents into sending money. Sometimes, this is called a “Grandparent Scam.” They swear you to secrecy: Scammers may insist that you keep their request for money confidential – to keep you from checking out their story and identifying them as imposters. They insist that you wire money right away: Scammers pressure people into wiring money or sending payment via prepaid gift card because it’s like sending cash – once it’s gone, you can’t trace it or get it back. If you feel you have been scammed, or an attempt was
made you should do the following: Remain calm and ask to speak with the relative directly, not only to ensure they’re alright but to make sure it’s them. Set up a family password. The call recipient can ask for the family password to help verify the caller is really their relative. If possible, try to use another phone or computer to reach your relative directly. If you’re able to reach your relative and can determine the call is a scam, hang up and file a fraud report. Other scams that continue to target senior citizens include the door-to-door scam. Nice weather usually brings out more door-to-door solicitations. Even if you believe the person at your door is a legitimate solicitor, it is important to remain skeptical and cautious about
When and where should I place my loved one with memory impairment? When and where should I place my loved one with memory impairment? Being the main caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia is a full time job and it is difficult to know the right time to place them and more importantly where to place them. Family members attempt to provide the care, don’t have the training, time or resources to do an effective job. An event occurs (the patient has a fall or a major decline or the caregiver is unable to continue) and a placement is quickly needed. • A wife can’t continue to care for her husband due to wandering, increased falls and advancing Alzheimer’s. Having barely slept for months, she is noticing her own health starting to decline. • A son is seeking placement for his father diagnosed with dementia because he cannot continue to work full-time, raise a family and try to oversee his father’s care every day in a facility which seems ill-equipped to deal with his active and curious behavior. • A husband seeks help for his wife with memory issues living in an assisted living, is isolating herself and not eating. Jaxpointe Assisted Living Memory Care homes can help! Jaxpointe has five statelicensed residential care homes in Arvada (2), Golden, North Lakewood, and Wheat Ridge. The environment reminds them of staying in their own home with regular bedrooms and furnishings paired with an outdoor space for walking and gardens. The residents can easily navigate the Jaxpointe home and relax more because they don’t have the responsibilities that they had in their home and are no longer able to perform. The caregivers get to know each
resident. Activities are personalized for residents and include: music therapy, pet therapy, walks and other exercise, arts and crafts, games, movies, visits to the other houses and community events as well as birthday and holiday celebrations. The small group of people living at each house becomes a family to each other. The residents adjust well and the family members who have been caregivers are able to visit and enjoy their time with their loved ones. The stress and strain on both the family member and resident is diminished and they are both able to enjoy each other and their respective lives.
the stranger, especially if they are trying to sell you something. Scammers often try and solicit donations for charity, offer a home repair service or pose as a utility worker. When a solicitor is at your door, never do the following: Do business right on the spot! You can and should always get a second opinion. Give out sensitive personal or financial information to someone who shows up at your door unannounced. Pay for services in cash. Be wary of paying up-front for a product or service that will be delivered at a later date. Let someone into your home that you did not invite. Other things to be aware of include: Scare tactics, like the solicitor telling you he smells a gas leak coming from your home. Deals that offer steeply discounted prices that seem
too good to be true. Remember that a receipt is worth nothing unless the business is valid and reputable. Before signing anything, be sure you read and understand exactly what you are signing. Don’t be afraid to offend someone by not doing business. It’s easy to fake credibility. Always do research before paying, or letting work be done. Check with an objective third party to verify someone’s identity. Don’t hesitate to call AARP Foundation ElderWatch to speak with a Volunteer Specialist if you have any questions about emergency scams or any other potential scam. Learn more about reporting possible scams at http:// www.aarp.org/aarp-foundation/our-work/income/elderwatch/, or call 1-800-222-4444, and select option 2.
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Testify to
MorningStar of Arvada
"Older adults have taught me the importance of truly opening your heart; the power of self-reflection, self-learning, humility, honesty and forgiveness. To recognize and hold dear what is truly important in life, and to love without counting the cost." (Cheryl Davis, Executive Director, MorningStar of Arvada)
MorningStar of Arvada
720.907.9071
17351 West 64th Avenue
INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE
SENIOR LIVING
MorningStar of Wheat Ridge
“MorningStar is special and successful because we are focused on creating a warm, respectful and loving environment, fostered by staff who are fulfilling a calling.” (Eric Adolph, Executive Director, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge)
Parker Senior Living by
MorningStar
“I’ve always resonated with seniors and I’m a better person for my time spent with them. I’m grateful to be part of a company where we create a culture of love and dignity.” (Steve McConaghie, Executive Director, Parker Senior Living)
MorningStar of Wheat Ridge
720.250.9405
10100 W. 38th Ave.
ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE
Parker Senior Living by MorningStar
303.841.1800
11000 S. Dransfeldt Road
INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE
MorningStarSeniorLiving.com