Publication of Pima Council on Aging, Helping Pima County Age Well Since 1967
Never Too Late Para información en Español ver páginas 21 – 25
April 2023 What’s News • Aging in Our Community • Dementia Capable SoAZ • Medicare & SMP Updates • Rights & Benefits • Caregiving • Healthy Living: Classes Happening Now! • Healthy Minds for Life • PCOA Puzzle • Ending Life Well • Neighbors Care Alliance • Visibility Matters • Advocacy • Senior Companion Program • CareGiver Training Institute • PimaCare at Home
Public Health Month
PUBLICATION OF PIMA COUNCIL ON AGING, HELPING PIMA COUNTY AGE WELL SINCE 1967
Independence. Vitality. Respect.
Inside • Aging in Our Community 3 • Dementia Capable Southern Arizona 4 - 5 • Medicare & SMP 6 - 8 • Rights & Benefits 8 - 10 • Caregiving 11 - 13 • Community Lunch Program 14 • Healthy Living 15 - 17 & 26 • Healthy Minds for Life 18 • PCOA Puzzle 19 - 20 • Nunca Es Demasiado Tarde 21 - 25
• Ending Life Well 27 • Visibility Matters 28 • Advocacy 29
• Senior Companion Program 30 • Neighbors Care Alliance 31 - 32 • Philanthropy: FreeWill & AZ Gives Day 33 • Wisdom Circles 33 • Featured Artist 34 • CareGiver Training Institute, Healthcare Education by PCOA 35 • PimaCare at Home, In-Home Care by PCOA 36
PCOA Helpline: (520) 790-7262 Administration: (520) 790-0504 Donate: givepcoa.org E-mail: help@pcoa.org Website: pcoa.org Mail: 8467 E. Broadway Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85710 Never Too Late is published by Pima Council on Aging, the Area Agency on Aging, Region II. Material from Never Too Late may be reprinted when permission is given and attribution is used along with ©PCOA 2023. Editor Adina Wingate, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5067 awingate@pcoa.org Editorial Assistant Jan Baker, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5076 jbaker@pcoa.org Advertising Adina Wingate, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5067 awingate@pcoa.org Design Consultant Lori Lieber, Lori Lieber Graphic Design lori@lorilieber.com
On the Cover: Detail from Behemoth, acrylic on canvas board by Dick Karre, The Drawing Studio. (Story, full image on inside back cover)
Help from PCOA During the Pandemic
Due to the increasing rate of COVID-19 transmission in Pima County and updated guidance from the CDC and Pima County Health Department, PCOA revised its guidance to staff and volunteers, and when interacting with members of the public, effective October 1, 2022. We encourage the public to access our services by phone or email whenever possible. Please remember that although masking in PCOA facilities continues to be option, the following guidelines are still in effect: All staff are expected to offer to wear masks and wear them when requested. PCOA will continue to supply surgical masks and KN95s to staff, volunteers and members of the public entering our facilities as requested. • Our building at 8467 E. Broadway Blvd. is open for those requiring in-person assistance. • Our building at 600 S. Country Club Rd. is open for those requiring in-person assistance. We encourage you to call and make an appointment to ensure the right staff are available to assist you. The best way to access our services, including making an appointment for in–person assistance, is by calling our Helpline between 8:30 AM and 5 PM Monday through Friday at (520) 790-7262 or emailing help@pcoa.org
Editorial and Advertising Deadline for Next Issue MARCH 31 2023
Please include a contact person name and phone number with all submitted material. All articles are subject to editing in accordance with technical and policy guidelines but will not be altered in content without permission of the author. Publication of submissions is not guaranteed. Ads are not to be considered as PCOA endorsements of products, services, or individuals.
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Read Never Too Late online at nevertoolate.pcoa.org
Page 2 | April 2023, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Aging in Our Community
A Message from W. Mark Clark, President and CEO
In mid-March, Tucson recognized the 150th anniversary of the establishment of Camp Lowell. In the spring of 1873, the Army presence in what is now downtown Tucson was moved seven miles from town, out to what we now know as Ft. Lowell Park. Among the many officers and soldiers stationed at the Fort over its 18 years of existence was a brand new First Lieutenant, Dr. Walter Reed. He served in 1875 as Post Surgeon for almost a year. You may have heard of Dr. Reed, most likely because the Army Medical Hospital in Washington, DC (now Bethesda, MD) is named after him. This honor was bestowed Dr. Reed due to his leading the commission that proved at the turn of the 19th century that the Yellow Fever virus was spread by mosquitos. It confirmed a theory advanced by Cuban Dr. Carlos Finlay and was one of the great public health successes of our time. The discovery led to the eradication of Yellow Fever, which in the 1790s killed nearly 10% of the population of Philadelphia. Today, we find ourselves at what we hope is the decline of the COVID-19 Pandemic, which has killed more than 1.1 million people in the United States, and nearly
7 million worldwide. As terrible as that death rate is, it certainly would have been much worse without the public health efforts undertaken worldwide, as well as the dedicated and selfless work of many healthcare professionals and other essential workers. The public health efforts are countless, including research, vaccination, public education, contract tracing, and supplying protective equipment, among many other measures. As a youngster, I still recall receiving my first Sabin Polio Vaccination. My parents, brother, and I lined up in the school cafeteria where my dad was the Assistant Principal to get our vaccines. This public health effort ensured that neither my family members nor I contracted polio. And since then, I have been diligent about getting my vaccinations, including five rounds of COVID shots. These life-saving measures result from medical research and public health efforts. At PCOA, we undertook a significant amount of work promoting COVID-19 vaccinations. You may recall that our “Take Your Shot” media campaign won a 1st Place National Award last summer. And every year, we encourage everyone
who can to get the Flu vaccine. Later this year, we anticipate that PCOA will once again launch an effort to encourage all who can to join me in getting their annual vaccinations, which may include an updated COVID-19 and Flu vaccine. Sadly, we know that Public Health has become ever more politically controversial than in the past. And while in the very scary times of the early Pandemic there were undoubtedly some mistakes that may have been made. However, as a society, we are better off now than we might have been without public health services. Like so many, I appreciate what public health efforts afford us - clean water, a functional community sewer system, efforts to quell communicable diseases, and, yes, vaccinations. A special hats off to our local public health workers!
W.Mark Clark President & CEO
April 2023, Never Too Late | Page 3
Pima Council on Aging
Dementia Capable Southern Arizo na
Arizona is the fastest growing state in the nation for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. It is now the 4th leading cause of death in Arizona. Additionally, nearly half of all caregivers providing assistance to older adults are caring for someone with a form of dementia. People with dementia experience a range of symptoms related to changes in thinking, remembering, reasoning, and behavior. Living with dementia presents unique challenges, but there are steps you can take to help now and in the future. Tips for Everyday Tasks for People Living With Dementia Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias get worse over time. Even simple everyday activities can become difficult to complete. To help cope with changes in memory and thinking, consider strategies that can make daily tasks easier. Try to adopt them early on so you will have more time to adjust. You can: • Write down to-do lists, appointments, and events in a notebook or calendar. • Set up automated bill payments and consider asking someone you trust to help manage your finances. • Have your groceries delivered. • Manage your medications with a weekly pillbox, a pillbox with reminders (like an alarm), or a medication dispenser. • Ask your doctor to provide a care plan and write down care directions (or have a family member or friend take notes during the visit). Sleep Tips for People Living With Dementia Dementia often changes a person’s sleeping habits. You may sleep a lot, or not enough, and wake up many times
about the best diet for you, and choose nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein and dairy products. Avoid added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium. • Stay social by talking on the phone with family and friends, joining an online support group, or going for a walk in your neighborhood. Finding Care and Support: Tips for People Living With Dementia Many people may be able to help in different ways. These people might include family members, friends, professional caregivers, community organizations, and others with dementia. For example, you can: • Ask friends or family to help with needs like cooking, paying bills, transportation, or shopping. • If you live alone, find people you trust who can visit often. • Consider letting trusted neighbors know of your diagnosis so they can help if needed. • Use social service agencies, local nonprofits, and Area Agencies on Aging to connect with in-home help, transportation, meals, and other services. Source: Alzheimers.gov, National Institutes of Health. Learn more about support and services visit dcsa.pcoa.org or call (520) 790.7262.
during the night. Poor sleep quality can make dementia symptoms worse. Tips for better and safer sleep: • Follow a regular schedule by going to sleep and getting up at the same time each day, even on weekends or when traveling. • Develop a relaxing bedtime routine with lowered lights, cool temperature, and no electronic screens. • Avoid caffeine and naps late in the day. • Have a lamp that’s easy to reach and turn on, a nightlight in the hallway or bathroom, and a flashlight nearby. • Keep a telephone with emergency numbers by your bed. • Talk to your doctor if you have problems sleeping. Healthy and Active Lifestyle Tips for People Living With Dementia Participating in activities you enjoy and getting exercise may help you feel better, stay social, maintain a healthy weight, and have regular sleep habits. Try these tips for a healthy and active lifestyle: • Try to be physically active for at least 30 minutes on most or all days of the week. But be realistic about how much activity you can do at one time. Several short “mini-workouts” may be best. • Aim for a mix of exercise types — endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. For example, you could do a mix of walking or dancing, lifting weights, standing on one foot, and stretching. Even everyday activities like household chores and gardening help you stay active. • Your diet may need to change as dementia progresses to maintain a healthy weight. Talk with your doctor
Page 4 | April 2023, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Dementia Capable Southern Arizo na
Presents
Memory Care Support Series
This 6-week series is designed for caregivers who are caring for a loved one with memory loss. We will walk through many aspects of this journey with you, from learning the basics of memory loss and dementia, to end of life care planning. We will help you understand the changes that are occurring with your loved one without forgetting about your own self-care!
2023 Series Details
Where:
600 S. Country Club Rd.
Time: 10 – 11:30am
April 3
Dementia Friends, Brain Health and Early Detection
Self-Care & Relationships: Building Support and Connections Memory Loss: Progression, Behaviors and Interventions Part 1 Memory Loss: Progression, Behaviors and Interventions Part 2 Caregiving Assists: Clever & Practical Tips and Tools Transitions & Life Changes: Supports for the Journey
April 10 April 17 April 24
May 1 May 8
Class size is limited Register through Eventbrite at: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/pcoa-memory-care-support-series-190859 For more information or to register, contact Nicole Thomas at (520) 790-7573 x1739 or nthomas@pcoa.org
April 2023, Never Too Late | Page 5
Pima Council on Aging
Medicare Corner
Pima Council on Aging 2023 Medicare Presentations Understand the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Learn about Medigap and Prescription Drug Plans Questions to ask before you enroll. How and when to enroll. Learn about Medicare Savings Programs which may help with paying Part B premium and/or Part D drug costs for those who qualify. How to find plans that offer the lowest costs for prescriptions you take. Pick up Medicare Advantage plan comparison spreadsheets for Pima County Medicare beneficiaries. In-Person Location Virtual (Zoom) Day/Time
Date
Broadway Office Location: https://lupumedicareip.eventbrite.com Wheeler Taft Abbett Sr. Library: https://wheelertaftabbetsrmedicare.eventbrite.com Murphy-Wilmot Library Location: https://murphywilmotmedicare.eventbrite.com
Registration:
https://umvirtual22.eventbrite.com
April 12
Wednesday 12 – 3pm Wednesday 10am – 1pm Wednesday 2 – 5pm
8467 E. Broadway Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85710 7800 N. Schisler Dr. Tucson, AZ 85743 530 N. Wilmot Library Tucson, AZ 85711
Virtual (Zoom)
April 19
In-Person Only
April 26
In-Person Only
For additional presentation dates, go to www.pcoa.org/calendar or call PCOA SHIP at (520) 546-2011
This project was supported in part by grant number 90MPPG0022, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy
Page 6 | April 2023, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Medicare Corner
Medicare home health care fraud
Who to contact for more information: • First, speak with your doctor or a hospital discharge planner if you need home health. • Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to learn more about Medicare coverage and costs for home health. SHIP counselors provide unbiased Medicare counseling. • Contact your Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) if you may have experienced Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse. •Contact 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800- 633-4227) or go to medicare.gov for a list of Medicare-approved home health agencies. Contact your Medicare Advantage Plan for a list of home health agencies in your plan’s network.
If you have Original Medicare, you should receive a Medicare Summary Notice (MSN). If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, you should receive an Explanation of Benefits (EOB). To prevent and detect home health fraud, you should read these Medicare notices thoroughly when you receive them. You should report any suspicious charges. You should also protect your Medicare number and only share it with health care providers and other trusted individuals. Here are some examples of potential home health fraud or abuse to watch for: You see charges on your MSN or EOB for services that you did not receive, that were not prescribed by your doctor, or when you do not meet Medicare’s homebound criteria.
You are enrolled in home health services by a doctor you do not know. A home health agency offers you “free” groceries or “free” transportation in exchange for personal information or to switch to a different home health agency. You are charged a copayment for home health services. You are asked to sign forms saying that you received home health services that you did not receive. If you think you may have experienced potential Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse, you should contact your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP).
Pima Council on Aging is your local SHIP/SMP. For more information call us at (520) 546-2011 or email us at Medicare@pcoa.org
Medicare and Home Health Care: What home health care does Medicare cover?
Medical social services: If you qualify for home health care, Medicare pays for services ordered by your doctor to help you with social and emotional concerned related to your illness. This may include counseling or help finding resources in your community. Medical supplies: Medicare pays in full for certain medical supplies, such as wound care, dressings, and catheters, when
Home health care includes health and social services that you receive in your home to treat an illness or injury. Medicare covers the following home health care: Skilled nursing services: Services performed by or under the supervision of a licensed or certified nurse to treat your injury or illness. For example, a nurse may come to your home to administer medication through an IV or injection. Skilled therapy services: Physical, speech, and occupational therapy services that
are reasonable and necessary for treating your illness or injury. They must be performed by or under the supervision of a licensed therapist. Home health aide: Medicare pays for an aide if you require skilled nursing or therapy services. A home health aide provides personal care services, including help with bathing, toileting, and dressing. Medicare will not pay for an aide if you only require personal care and do not need skilled nursing or therapy services in the first place.
(continued on next page)
April 2023, Never Too Late | Page 7
Pima Council on Aging
Rights & Benefits Information
Medicare and Home Health Care (continued from previous page) provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency (HHA). Durable medical equipment (DME): Medicare pays 80% of its approved amount for certain pieces of medical equipment, such as a wheelchair or walker. You pay a 20% coinsurance charge as long as your home health agency accepts Medicare’s approved amount for your DME item as payment in full. Medicare’s home health benefit does not cover: • 24-hour a day care at home • Prescription drugs (enroll in a Part D plan if you need prescription drugs) • Meals delivered to your home. • Homemaker services, called “custodial care.” (However, home health aides may perform some homemaker services, such as light housekeeping, when visiting to provide other health related services.) What if I have a Medicare Advantage Plan? Your plan must provide at least the same level of home health care coverage as Original Medicare, but it may impose different rules, restrictions, and costs. Call your Medicare Advantage Plan to learn more. Depending on your plan you may need to: • Get care from an HHA that contracts with your plan. • Request prior authorization or a referral before receiving home health care. • Pay a copayment for your care.
*for households earning up to $73,000 annually. Free Tax Services, Three Ways: 2023 VITA SCHEDULE
1.
In-person services: Return prep on-site, typically completed the same day. Walk-ins welcome or schedule an appointment at: UnitedWayTucson.org/VITA Connect online Virtual return prep. typically completed in 2 weeks. 1. Submit your information & documents at: GetYourRefund.org/uwtsa 2. OR Come to an in-person site & we’ll collect your info. & scan your documents
2.
Get Started NOW, right from your phone or mobile device!
3.
Do-it-yourself software: Access software at: UnitedWayTucson.org/FreeFile *All you need is a smart phone or computer, access to secure WIFI, and your tax documents.
In-Person VITA Service Locations Walk-ins & Appointments Accepted, unless otherwise indicated *Walk-ins MUST arrive at least 1 hour before site closing time and will be served on a first come first served basis.
City of Tucson- Ward III 1510 E. Grant Rd. Saturday: 9am - 1pm Truly Nolen at William’s Center 432 S. Williams Blvd. Thursday: 9am - 1pm
El Pueblo Senior Center 101 W. Irvington Rd. Tuesday: 4pm - 7:30pm Thursday: 4pm - 7:30pm Saturday: 9am - 1pm *Walk-ins only *This site will be CLOSED: Jan. 26th, Feb. 9th, Feb. 18th Goodwill Job Connection 1703 W. Valencia Rd. Saturday: 9am - 1pm *By appointment only
Quincie Douglas Community Center 1575 E. 36th St. Tuesday: 4pm - 7pm Saturday: 1pm - 4pm YWCA 525 N. Bonita Ave. *Valet Service Only
Literacy Connects 200 E. Yavapai Rd. Tuesday: 4:30pm - 8pm Pima Community College 435 E. Calle Aurora Rd. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9am - 1pm
Interfaith Community Services 2820 W. Ina Rd. Wednesday: 4pm - 7pm Saturday: 9am - 1pm *Walk-ins only
International Sonoran Desert Alliance 38 N. Plaza St., Ajo, AZ Monday & Wednesday: 5pm - 8pm
Saturday: Appointment only For appt. call: 520-387-3570
Information You Must Provide:
Please Note:
•All return prep is performed by our local network of IRS-certified volunteers. •All site schedules are subject to changes or cancellations throughout the tax season. Visit: UnitedWayTucson.org/VITA for current site info. • The deadline to file taxes is April 18, 2023, but we recommend an early start. This can help ensure you receive your refund in a timely fashion, or help you prepare in case you owe money. Note that payments to the IRS can be scheduled for any date up to the filing deadline, so early preparation does not have to mean early payment. • For sign-language interpreter, call: 520.445.8484.
Recommended •Account and routing numbers for direct deposit of refunds • Prior year tax return • If anyone in the household is insured through the marketplace, Form 1095-A & dependents’ proof of income • If filing for the AZ Property Tax Credit, and a renter: AZ Form 201, completed by landlord Required • Both spouses, if filing jointly, must be present • Picture ID for taxpayer (& spouse, if filing jointly) • Social Security card (or acceptable alternative) for each person listed on the return • Proof of income, like W2s and 1099s • Documentation of expenses For more information: Email: vita@unitedwaytucson.org or visit UnitedWayTucson.org/VITA or Call at 520.333.5810
Thank you to our Sponsors:
Page 8 | April 2023, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Rights & Benefits Information
Tax breaks for older adults 2023 There are three types of tax programs for which you may be eligible:
• Income limitations **
o $36,077 for applicant, including spouse’s income and/or income of children over the age of 18 who reside in the home o $43,733 for applicant with dependent children under the age of 18 residing in the home o $43,733 for applicant with a disabled son or daughter over the age of 18 residing in the home (must be certified by a licensed Arizona medical authority as totally and permanently disabled) *These amounts are taxable income (non-taxable Social Security and Railroad Retirement are not included as taxable income) • The Assessed Value limitation is $29,418 Residential Property for each owner. • Applicants must have owned the subject property as of January 1 of the year you are filing for exemptions. • Applications made after October 1st, 2023, may only be eligible for a reduction to the second half of 2023 property taxes. • Additional restrictions may apply. Additional Qualifications for widows/widowers: • Spouse must have been an Arizona resident. • Spouse must not be separated or divorced at the time of death. • If remarried, the applicant cannot claim an exemption. Applicants must file in person at the Pima County Assessor’s Office between the first Monday in January through March 1st. Applications submitted after March 1st must be accompanied by a request for Waiver redemption. (continued on next page)
1
The Arizona Property Tax Refund Credit, also known as the 140PTC, may be filed if you meet the following criteria:
• Arizona resident for the entire year of 2022. • Age 65 by January 1, 2023 or a recipient of SSI. • Limited taxable household income (non-taxable Social Security and Railroad Retirement are not included as taxable income) • You paid property taxes and/or rent in 2022. Call PCOA Intake at (520) 790-7262 in Tucson for 140PTC forms, or to make an appointment for assistance in completing this form. THIS CREDIT IS PROVIDED BY THE ARIZONA STATE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE. This program is open from January until the tax filing deadline in April 2023. PCOA will be providing telephone appointments for assistance beginning February 1, 2023.
2
Qualifications for widow/widower and disability exemption applicants:
• The applicant must be a widow, widower, or 100% disabled. Veterans who are partially disabled can receive the percentage of the exemption for which they are determined to be disabled by the VA. • The applicant must be a permanent Arizona Resident. • The applicant must be over the age of 17.
April 2023, Never Too Late | Page 9
Pima Council on Aging
Rights & Benefits Information ALTCS Workshop
Tax breaks for older adults (continued from previous page) The Pima County Assessor Valuation Relief office is located at 240 N Stone Ave in the Pima County Public Service Building. You can call (520) 724-7500 for information on other locations that will be available during the filing period, or you can visit the website at www.asr.pima.gov. The Senior Property Valuation Freeze Option may be filed if you meet the following criteria: • At least one of the owners must be 65 years of age by September 1 of the current application year. • The property must be the primary residence of the taxpayer (primary residence is defined as “that residence which is occupied by the taxpayer for an aggregate of nine months of the calendar year”). A taxpayer can only have one primary residence. Rentals, mixed use properties, and properties over 10 acres do not qualify. • The owner must have lived and owned the home for at least two (2) years prior to applying for the option. • The household’s (owner/s and residents) total income from ALL sources, including non-taxable income, cannot exceed $43,872. The total income from ALL sources for two or more property owners cannot exceed $54,840 per the Arizona Department of Revenue. • The deadline for submitting the application is September 1, 2023. You will be notified by December 1, 2023 on the decision of your application. For further information, please visit our website at www.asr.pima. gov, or contact us at (520) 724-8630. 3
Learn about the Arizona Long Term Care System, including what it is, what it takes to be eligible for the program, and what kinds of services are available once a person becomes eligible. A great place to start when you are considering ALTCS for yourself, or for a loved one.
Please join us in person. Topic: ALTCS Workshop Time: April 13, 2:30 — 4 p.m. Location: The Katie , 600 S Country Club Rd
To register , go to: https://altcsapr23.eventbrite.com, or call Donna DeLeon at (520) 305.3450. Participants who would prefer a virtual training are invited to register for our May training held on Thursday, May 11, 2023. The ALTCS workshop is held every month on the second Thursday. Participants are asked to socially distance themselves; masks are optional. Space is limited; please register soon.
Page 10 | April 2023, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
Free training for informal, nonpaid family caregivers Caregiving Essentials: First Steps Training Schedule 2023
Tue., Aug. 15 Thur., Sept. 28 Wed., Oct. 18 Fri., Nov. 17
Wed., Apr. 19 Tue., May 16 Tue., June 20 Fri., July 14
600 S. Country Club Rd., Tucson If staying for both, bring your own lunch. Coffee and water available.
Workshop 1: Steps to Resilience (9 am – 12:30pm)
Workshop 2: Physical Care and Safety (1 – 3:30pm)
• Stress Management & Grief • Communication • Dementia Behaviors & Issues • Finances & Legal Resources • Lifelines for Support: Respite & Support Groups • Nutrition Support • Phone and Technology Use • Grief & End of Life Resources
• Activity Planning, Outings and Car Etiquette • Infection control and providing Personal Care
• Proper Body Mechanics • Home Environment Safety & Fall Prevention • Planning for an Emergency • Understanding Assistive Devices • Proper Walking /Transferring techniques • Re-positioning with reassessment
Register on Eventbrite: https://caregivingessentials23.eventbrite.com or call Pima Council on Aging, (520) 790-7573 ext. 1750; ddeleon@pcoa.org
For questions, call Kelley Hansen (520) 790-7573 ext. 3413; khansen@pcoa.org For possible respite during training, call Arizona Caregiver Coalition (888) 737-7494 or our Helpline (520) 790-7262. This training does not provide certification or CEU’s for employment. *Classes are subject to change due to health precautions. See page 20 for details.
April 2023, Never Too Late | Page 11
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
PCOA CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS – APRIL Five are currently being held by Zoom plus six in person.
Participation in the groups can be in person (6 groups), by telephone or by computer/tablet/smartphone w/ video. Support groups are a way to connect with others who are walking the journey of caregiving like you are. You get to SEE (if you use the video option) that you are not alone. You get to hear other’s challenges and successes, learn about helpful resources, know that your story matters and that you have been heard. Support groups are facilitated by a professional and are a safe place for you to express your concerns, frustrations, etc. and learn that others feel this way too. 4/17, 3rd Monday, 1–2:30pm (Midtown) In Person 4/18, 3rd Tuesday , 9–10:30am Virtual ON ZOOM 4/20 3rd Thursday, 1:30–3pm Virtual ON ZOOM 4/24, 4th Monday, 11am–12:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM 4/25, 4th Tuesday , 9–10:30am (Southwest) In Person
To protect the confidentiality of the group sessions, access information will only be given to registered participants. Emails are sent out on Fridays with updated schedules and additional information. If you participated in the groups before COVID, and have not been receiving the emails, please check your junk or spam folder. To RSVP or if you have any questions, please contact: Tonetta Clay, Support Group Facilitator (520) 305-3405, tclay@pcoa.org
APRIL
4/3, 1st Monday , 1–2:30pm (East) In Person 4/4, 1st Tuesday , 12–1:30pm (Oro Valley) In Person 4/6, 1st Thursday, 1–2:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM 4/10, 2nd Monday , 1–2:30pm (Green Valley) In Person 4/11, 2nd Tuesday, 5:30–7pm Virtual ON ZOOM 4/13, 2nd Thursday , 1–2:30pm (East) In Person
“Every tear is answered by a blossom / Every sigh with songs and laughter blent / April-blooms upon the breezes toss them / April knows her own, and is content.” — Susan Coolidge
*NOTE: There will be no meetings on days where holidays are observed PLEASE RSVP for all groups. At all in person meetings we continue to social distance and mask wearing is optional. To RSVP or if you have any questions, please contact: Tonetta Clay, Support Group Facilitator (520) 305-3405, tclay@pcoa.org
Page 12 | April 2023, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving Caregiver Burnout: Stress and Mental Health By Tonetta Clay, Caregiver Specialist for Support Groups The demands of caregiving can be stressful, exhausting, and There are things you can you do to help lessen and/or prevent burnout while helping you regain control of your life as a caregiver.
• Take care of your health and eat a healthy diet. Staying current with doctor’s appointments and recommended care keeps you in good health so that you can continue to care for your loved one. Eating a healthy diet will give you much needed energy and help you feel better while providing care. • Be honest with yourself about what you can and cannot do in caring for your loved one. This is something that’s difficult to discuss, but it’s a much-needed conversation. Do you need respite care to get a break? Is caregiving too much for you to handle (mentally, physically, or emotionally)? Can you no longer provide the type of care your loved one needs? These questions and concerns are real, as are the frustrations, exhaustion and stress you feel! And these are exactly the types of conversations our Aging and Caregiving Specialists have on a daily basis, and they can assist you in your time of need! Taking back control of your life, wants, and needs is within your reach. By taking just one of the above suggestions you can start decreasing your stress and potential for burnout. I know it may seem impossible, but you can do it. You got this! For personalized assistance, reach out to our Family Caregiver Support Team by calling (520) 790-7262.
overwhelming. Forever “on call” as you care for a loved one, can tire you out! And perhaps you’ve forgotten about yourself in the midst of it all— your healthy and fun activities like hanging with friends or hobbies. This creates caregiver burnout that causes stress levels to rise and mental health to decline. It’s important that you take care of yourself otherwise you can’t fully take care of your loved one. According to the National Alliance for Caregiving and the AARP Public Policy Institute survey, 40% of caregivers felt emotionally stressed, almost 20% said it caused financial problems, and 20% felt physically strained. Some of the warning signs to look for to know if you are experiencing caregiver burnout can include: • Feeling anxious, depressed, irritable, and exhausted • Racing thoughts and worrying about your loved one • Frequent headaches, body aches and pains • Neglecting your own health needs • Losing interest in things you use to like to do and avoiding people • Changes in appetite and sleep patterns, or possibly insomnia
• Ask for help from family, friends, and your external support system. Even if it’s someone to schedule doctor’s appointments or send you care packages…every little bit helps and will help you. If you are living in Pima County and have no support system or resources, PCOA is a one-stop-shop for obtaining the support, resources and information you need. Our Aging and Caregiving Specialists are here to help. • Seek support by talking and sharing with family and friends to get out your thoughts and frustrations. Don’t forget about the PCOA Caregiver Support Groups as that’s a great place to come and get much needed support, resources, and to know that you are not alone in your struggles. • Take regular breaks and attend social activities. Even a 10-minute break to regroup can do you a world of good. If you don’t have friends, family, or a support system to hang out with, keep in mind that the area libraries and recreational centers have lots of activities for you to enjoy and meet other people. PCOA also hosts monthly events that you may want to take advantage of like the EnhanceFitness ® classes.
April 2023, Never Too Late | Page 13
Pima Council on Aging
PCOA Community Lunch Program
Do You Know... • Someone who could benefit from a lunch program that also provides an opportunity to make new friends. Let’s face it, eating alone, at home, is no fun. • These programs are typically open from Monday – Friday (except as noted and holidays) from 9:00 a.m. to approximately 1pm. • There are fun activities available during these hours. Depending on the site, activities include games, movies, crafts and even field trips. • A transportation subsidy may be available to get someone to these lunch programs. Transportation is provided via Sun Van, to individuals with disabilities with a current ADA Eligibility Card issued by the City of Tucson. • That these lunch programs are open to all individuals 60 and older and their spouse regardless of age. Once you register at a meal site, you will be required to reserve your meals each week. That way, we know you’re coming and your lunch is waiting for you. A suggested donation of $2–$3 is requested. Community Center Lunches are a program of the Pima Council on Aging in collaboration with sub-contracted agencies: Catholic Community Services, and the City of Tucson Parks & Recreation Department. Have Lunch and Make a Friend
Check it out here: https://pcoa.org/ways-we-help/ meals-nutrition.html/ Click on “View Monthly Menu” This Month’s Menu
COMMUNITY LUNCH CENTERS NEAR YOU
Ajo Community
290 W. Fifth St., Ajo 85321
(520) 387-5040 (520) 791-4353 (520) 791-4070 (520) 889-0928 (520) 837-8210 (520) 887-9786 (520) 791-4969 (520) 791-3247 (520) 791-2509 (520) 485-7413 (520) 791-5787
Archer Neighborhood Armory Park Senior *
1665 S. La Cholla Blvd., Tucson 85713 220 S. 5th Ave., Tucson 85701 101 W. Irvington Rd., Tucson 85714 1390 W. Speedway Blvd., Tucson 85705 1660 W. Ruthrauff Rd., Tucson 85705
El Pueblo Neighborhood Center El Rio Neighborhood Center
Ellie Towne/Flowing Wells Community Center **
Freedom Recreation Center
5000 E. 29th St., Tucson 85711 2160 N. 6th Ave., Tucson 85705
Donna Liggins Center
780 S. Park Centre Ave., Green Valley 85614 (520) 393-6814
Posada Life Community Center Quincie Douglas Senior Center
1575 E. 36th St., Tucson 85713
Saguaro Christian Church William Clements Center
8302 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson 85710 8155 E. Poinciana Dr., Tucson 85730
Please call in advance to reserve a meal and for days and hours of operation. Funded by: Federal Older Americans Act through AZ DES/DAAS, United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, City of Tucson, and Individual Contributions * Dinner meal only ** Open Mon., Wed., Fri.
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Pima Council on Aging
Healthy Living
Healthy Living Workshops We offer six-week self-management workshops for those with ongoing health conditions, type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes as well as chronic pain. If you’re interested in any of these workshops, please call our Healthy Living Department at (520) 305-3410 to add your name and contact information to our workshop interest lists.
Practice with purpose Are you looking for ways to live and age well?
EnhanceFitness®
EnhanceFitness®
Our current schedule for EnhanceFitness® classes (1 hour class) is: Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays • Randolph Recreation Center, 200 S. Alvernon Way, Bldg. 1 , 9–10 am • El Rio Center, 1390 W. Speedway Blvd. , 11am–12 pm • Clements Regional Ctr., Fitness Center , 8155 E. Poinciana Dr. , 8:30–9:30 am • Udall Park, Carol West Senior Center, 7222 E. Tanque Verde Rd. , 11 am–12 pm • The Katie , 600 S. Country Club, and Remote , 10:30–11:30 Pre-registration is required through Eventbrite (located on the PCOA homepage), https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/enhancefitness-classes-176939 . Class size is limited. For assistance, call us at (520) 305-3410. • Tucson Estates (TENHN), 5900 W. Western Way Circle , 10:30–11:30 am Mondays – Recreation Hall, Wednesdays & Fridays Multi-Purpose Hall Contribution: $36 per person/per month
A Matter of Balance®
Healthy Living with Chronic Pain®
The Healthy Living suite of classes covers things like the cause of falls and how to prevent them, strategies to bolster physical fitness and balance, as well as other ways to empower older adults to keep themselves safe and healthy.
Picture Rocks Community Center 5615 N. Sanders Rd. Mon., Wed., Fri., 11:45 am–12:45 pm Drexel Heights Community Center 5220 S. San Joaquin Ave. Mon., Wed., Fri., 12–1 pm Ellie Towne/Flowing Wells** Community Center, 1660 W. Ruthrauff Rd. Mon., Wed., Fri., 10:30–11:30 am
Register Now! Search for Senior Fitness , at https://webcms.pima.gov/government/ natural_resources_parks_and_recreation/ Chose the center of your choice from the
(520) 305-3410 healthyliving.pcoa.org Small steps. Positive changes. Healthier living.
list and go their class listing, look for EnhanceFitness to register. **Classes are scheduled to resume in April.
April 2023, Never Too Late | Page 15
Pima Council on Aging
Looking for Volun
Healthy Living
A Matter of Balance® offered in person
Udall Park 7222 E. Tanque Verde Rd. April 18, 20, 25, 27, May 2, 4, 9, 11 Tuesdays & Thursdays 10 am – 12 pm
Tucson Estates 5900 W. Western Way Circle Sept. 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29 Tuesdays & Fridays 1 – 3 pm
Contribution: $30.00 (covers your book and supplies)
Looking for Volunteer Coaches! AMatter of Chances are you know someone who h A Matter of Balance is a proven program concerns about falls and increase physi Adult Falls Coalition is looking for vo program. Free training provided.
A Matter of Balance® is a a workshop designed to reduce the fear of falling and help participants learn to view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activity and make changes to reduce fall risks at home. It includes 8 two-hour sessions for 10-15 participants and is led by trained coaches.
Pima Council on Aging This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Classes are free and held twice a week for 4 weeks for 2 hours each. Participants learn to: · view falls as controllable · set goals for increasing activity · make changes to reduce fall risks at home · exercise to increase strength and balance A Matter of Balance® Chances are you know someone who has fallen or has a fear of falling. A Matter of Balance is a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity. PCOA is looking for volunteers to help offer this program. Training is provided. For more information and to register for an upcoming training, contact Jennifer Cain, jcain@pcoa.org or call (520) 790-7573, ext. 3411.
C c i
e b W · s · w a · e
For more information and to register, contact Jennie at (520) 305-3410.
Page 16 | April 2023, Never Too Late
Healthy Living
Exercising With Chronic Conditions Almost anyone, at any age, can do
Exercising with type 2 diabetes For people with diabetes, exercise and physical activity can help manage the disease and help you stay healthy longer. Walking and other forms of daily exercise can help improve glucose levels in older people with diabetes. Set a goal to be more active most days of the week, and create a plan for being physically active that fits into your life. A few easy steps to be more active: • Stretch during TV commercial breaks. • Walk around when you talk on the phone. • Take more steps by parking farther away from stores, movie theaters, or your office. Exercising when you are overweight If you are overweight, don’t let that stop you from doing physical activities. If you have difficulty bending or moving easily or feel self-conscious, try different activities, like walking, water exercises, dancing, or weightlifting, to see what works best for you. Anything that gets you moving— even for only a few minutes a day in the beginning—is a healthy start. Exercise and heart health Your heart keeps your body running. As you grow older, some changes in the heart and blood vessels are normal, but others are caused by disease. Choices you might make every day, such as eating healthy, maintaining a healthy weight,
Flexibility exercises such as upper- and lower-body stretching and tai chi can help keep joints moving, relieve stiffness, and give you more freedom of movement for everyday activities. Strengthening exercises , such as overhead arm raises, will help you maintain or add to your muscle strength to support and protect your joints. Endurance exercises make the heart and arteries healthier and may lessen swelling in some joints. Try activities that don’t require a lot of weight on your joints, such as swimming and biking. If you have arthritis, you may need to avoid some types of activity when joints are swollen or inflamed. If you have pain in a specific joint area, for example, you may need to focus on another area for a day or two. Physical activity and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) If you have COPD, talk with your healthcare provider or a pulmonary therapist to learn what they recommend. You may be able to learn some exercises to help your arms and legs get stronger and/or breathing exercises that strengthen the muscles needed for breathing. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program that helps you learn to exercise and manage your disease with physical activity and counseling. It can help you stay active and carry out your day-to-day tasks.
some type of physical activity. You can still exercise even if you have a health condition like heart disease, arthritis, chronic pain, high blood pressure, or diabetes. In fact, physical activity may help. For most older adults, physical activities like brisk walking, riding a bike, swimming, weightlifting, and gardening are safe, especially if you build up slowly. Talk with your doctor about how your health condition might affect your ability to be active. Staying physically active: Alzheimer's disease and related dementias Researchers are assessing the benefit of exercise to delay mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in older adults and to improve brain function in older adults who may be at risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. Older adults with MCI may be able to safely do more vigorous forms of exercise, similar to older adults without MCI, provided there are no other underlying health concerns. Being active and getting exercise may help people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia feel better and can help them maintain a healthy weight and have regular toilet and sleep habits. If you are a caregiver, you can exercise together to make it more fun. Exercising with arthritis For people with arthritis, exercise can reduce joint pain and stiffness. It can also help with losing weight, which reduces stress on the joints.
(continued on page 26)
April 2023, Never Too Late | Page 17
Pima Council on Aging
Healthy Minds for Life A Message from Lee Ryan, Professor and Head of the Psychology Department at the University of Arizona
Myths of Aging: One Size Fits All A few weeks ago, I was invited to give a presentation as part of the University of Arizona’s 2023 College of Science Lecture Series. The theme of the series was “Myth Busting Science”. I decided to focus my talk on myths about aging and, in particular, “one size fits all” – the idea that we are all aging in the same way, that my experience of aging is the same as yours. Of course that’s not true. We all age differently based on many factors, including our genetics, our lifetime experiences, our health, emotional well-being, social support, lifestyle, environment, education, hobbies, and the list goes on. I highlighted the individual and unique ways that each of us ages by focusing on my own research on the aging brain and memory changes that occur as we age. I also highlighted many of the positives of aging that our society often overlooks – knowledge, resilience, perspective, balance, and wisdom. In my column today, I’ll talk about just a few of these myths. Here's the first important myth: If we live long enough, we’ll all develop Alzheimer’s disease. This idea has been around for a long time, and although it’s becoming less prevalent, it still pops up in the popular press as well as scientific articles and presentations. Currently, the Alzheimer’s Association estimates that 1 in 8 people over the age of 65 will develop Alzheimer’s disease. In recent years, that number may have decreased to 1 in 9 people. That translates into somewhere around 13% of the population, a very sobering and concerning statistic. But it also means that the other 87% -- a large majority of older adults – will not
experience dementia in their lifetime. It’s important to point out that a recent study at Columbia University shows that, among those 87% of older adults without dementia, about a third will experience some level of cognitive impairment, including memory changes. For most people, these changes will be relatively mild. For some, they can be sufficiently severe that they interfere with quality of life, and may even contribute to loss of independence. But it’s not the kind of severe debilitating memory loss that is experienced by individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. That leads to a second important myth: Cognitive impairment happens to everyone as we get older. Does everyone over age 65 experience memory problems? Are people in their 20’s and 30’s always better at memory tests than older adults? The answer is a resounding no. Recently, my colleagues and I gave a memory test to nearly 200,000 people across the United States, from ages 18 to 90+. We found large variability in memory performance at every age – some people got perfect scores (yes, even people in their 90’s), others scored very poorly (including people in their 20’s), and a wide range of scores in between. About a third of people in their 70’s and 80’s scored higher than the average 20 year old. And even more surprisingly, about a third of people in their 20’s, 30’s, and 40’s had memory scores that were lower than the average 80 year old! More and more, our research is proving these myths about aging to be false. We won’t all develop dementia as we grow older. And, it appears that many people
will maintain their cognitive abilities, including memory, well into their 70’s, 80’s, and potentially beyond. This is a very positive message about the aging brain. Researchers in the Precision Aging Network are trying to understand why some people experience decline, while others stay cognitively healthy. We hope this knowledge will lead to new insights into ways that we can better maintain our brain health across our entire lifespan. By the way, you can watch the lecture series on UofA’s College of Science youtube channel, or at this link: https://www.youtube.com/live/ zoSqgKlRoFg?feature=share To learn more about the Precision Aging Network, visit our website at https:// precisionagingnetwork.org/. If you’d like to hear more about our studies, or if you’d be interested in participating, send us an email at healthymindsforlife@email. arizona.edu. We’ll tell you about some great opportunities to get involved. I’ll look forward to hearing from you! Lee Ryan is a Professor and Head of the Psychology Department at the University of Arizona. She is a researcher studying aging and Alzheimer’s disease, and is a member of the Precision Aging Network.
Page 18 | April 2023, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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