Never Too Late Medicare: Annual Open Enrollment & Protect Your Hearing Month Para información en Español ver páginas 19 - 22
October 2022 What’s News • Aging in Our Community • Community Needs Survey + • Dementia Capable SoAZ • Medicare Open Enrollment • Rights & Benefits • Caregiving • Healthy Living: Classes Happening Now! • PCOA Puzzle • Ending Life Well • Neighbors Care Alliance • Visibility Matters • Advocacy • Senior Companion Program • CareGiver Training Institute • PimaCare at Home
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 • Medicare & SMP 5 - 7 • Rights & Benefits 8 • Caregiving 9 - 11 • Community Lunch Program 12 • Healthy Living 13 - 16 • PCOA Puzzle 17 - 18 • Nunca Es Demasiado Tarde 19 - 22 • Ending Life Well 23
• Visibility Matters 24 • Advocacy 25
• Senior Companion Program 26 • Neighbors Care Alliance 27 - 28 • Featured Artist 34 • CareGiver Training Institute, Healthcare Education by PCOA 35 • Introducing TheKatie.org & 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 2022. Editor Adina Wingate, (520) 790-0504 awingate@pcoa.org Editorial Assistant Jan Baker, (520) 790-0504 jbaker@pcoa.org Advertising Adina Wingate, (520) 790-0504 awingate@pcoa.org Design Consultant Lori Lieber, Lori Lieber Graphic Design lori@lorilieber.com
On the Cover: Detail from Into the Forest Silence, acrylic, by Casonti McClure, The Drawing Studio. (Story, full image on inside back cover)
Help from PCOA During the Pandemic Due to the prevalence of the coronavirus in our community, we encourage the public to access our services by phone or email whenever possible. Our building at 8467 E Broadway 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. Our building at 600 S Country Club is not currently open to the public. Please call or visit our website frequently for updates, as availability is subject to change as the public health crisis evolves. 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 OCTOBER 3 2022
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 | October 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Aging in Our Community A Message from W. Mark Clark, President and CEO
caregivers. The information is gathered through surveys and focus groups with community stakeholders will guide how we deliver our services, identify strategic goals and objectives, and inform how new programming is developed. These data are also helpful in securing additional funding to support the Older Americans Act services that we offer. If you are an adult who is 50 years or older, we want to hear from you! Please take the time to complete our anonymous Community Health & Aging Survey, covering a variety of topics such as issues at home or in the neighborhood, social connectedness, and access to healthcare services. The survey will take about 15 minutes to complete and is available online in English or Spanish at needs. pcoa.org. You can also call 520.790.0504 or help@pcoa.org and we will help you complete the survey by phone or by mail. Over the next two months we will also be hosting a number of community listening sessions. This is an opportunity to discuss your experiences and concerns about aging and aging services with other community members, representatives from PCOA, and other community partners. Dates and times of the listening sessions are available at needs.pcoa.org. We will be collecting information through the end of November, and we need your help to make sure our data covers the diverse spectrum of lives and experiences in our community. We are about 18% of the way to our goal of 3,500 surveys and want to hear from as many people as possible! Please spread the word to your friends, family, and neighbors in Pima County.
Medicare Open Enrollment Since 1965 when Medicare was signed into law, it has provided critical healthcare and financial stability for older adults, a benefit for which they’ve already paid into the system. Today nearly 64 million people over the age of 65 or with qualifying long- term disabilities rely on Medicare for their health coverage. While it is an amazing feat of government to help this many people, the Medicare system certainly comes with what can be an abundance of confusing terminology and rules. And sadly, also the potential for scams and fraud. PCOA is here to help you navigate the changing landscape of Medicare year- round, but especially approaching open enrollment which begins on October 15th. The goal of our Medicare program is to empower, educate, and assist Medicare- eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers through objective outreach, counseling, and training, to make informed health insurance decisions that optimize access to care and benefits. Our objectivity is key; PCOA does not sell nor endorse any Medicare plans, so you can rest assured that our guidance is focused on meeting your needs, saving you money, and maximizing your benefits. Please don’t hesitate to contact our certified Medicare volunteers and staff by calling 520-790-7262 or emailing ship@pcoa.org. Community Needs Assessment The momentum is growing as we gather data about lives and experiences of older adults here in Pima County for our Community Needs Assessment. This assessment is a crucial component of how PCOA structures and delivers its services to adults 60+ and family
Vote! With the November election on the horizon, the conversations I’m hearing occupy one of two contexts. First is the ever-present focus on current issues like Medicare and Social Security, which our Members of Congress and Senators have a great deal to do with. The second context that seems to be at an all-time high, is framing how this election will affect future generations, with increasing discussion surrounding topics like sustainability and the environment. This election, as is the case every four years, all of our statewide officials, like Governor, Secretary of State and Attorney General are up for election, which no incumbents. Also, all of our legislators. It is not an understatement to say that this could be one of the most impactful elections for years to come. However different our viewpoints might be, our futures are tied together and each of us has a vested interest in strengthening our community and our nation. When we view the distance between our own beliefs and those of others as a potential space for understanding compromise, each one of us can become an agent for positive change, a soothing balm to counteract the inflammatory rhetoric all around us. I encourage you all to be thoughtful citizens, to hear one another, and most of all to vote. If you need information about anything election related visit pima.gov/ vote2022. In solidarity,
W.Mark Clark President & CEO
October 2022, Never Too Late | Page 3
Pima Council on Aging
Dementia Capable Southern Arizo na
October is National Protect Your Hearing Month
Join us for an in-depth look at dementia! You will learn what to expect, common behaviors and how to approach them with your loved one. This 2-part training will leave you with a comprehensive understanding of the different stages of dementia, how the brain changes and what to anticipate as dementia progresses. Additionally, you will learn practical tips, tricks, and non-pharmacological interventions to help your loved one with dementia. These trainings are intended for those caring for a loved one with dementia. Memory Loss Progression, Behaviors, and Interventions
What does protecting your hearing have to do with dementia? There is a strong link between hearing loss and dementia. Those with mild hearing loss are two times more likely to develop dementia than those without hearing loss, those with moderate hearing loss are three times more likely, and those with severe hearing loss have a five times greater risk of developing dementia. Research also indicates that taking steps to minimize hearing loss could prevent or delay the onset of dementia. Hearing loss may contribute to dementia in multiple ways: • The strain of trying to hear constantly may cause the brain to dedicate more energy to trying to hear rather than memory and understanding functions of the brain. • Trouble hearing can also often lead to social isolation, which significantly increases the risk of cognitive decline. • It can also cause physiological changes in the brain itself. When signs of dementia are present, it is important to test for hearing loss. If there is hearing loss indicated, it can then be diagnosed, and treated typically with a hearing aid. In one study of people over 65 with deafness in at least one ear, 80% of participants showed cognitive improvement a year after being fitted with a cochlear implant. If you or your loved one has dementia AND hearing loss here are some tips that can help: • Quiet the room – reduce background noise and distractions • Lighten up – keep rooms well-lit; this helps make it easier to understand speech • Express yourself – when speaking use gestures and be expressive, ensure you are speaking face to face and at eye level when possible • Stay friendly • Don’t overcompensate – avoid exaggerated mouth movements that make your lips harder to read • Rephrase and restate – don’t repeat yourself too many times; choose different words to express your ideas • Annual cleaning – wax build up can exacerbate hearing loss so keep ears clean
Where:
600 S. Country Club Rd Tucson, AZ 85716
When:
Virtual (Zoom): Part 1: Thursday October 20, 10–11:30am Part 2: Thursday October 27, 10–11:30am In person: Part 1: Tuesday October 18, 10–11:30am Part 2: Tuesday October 25, 10–11:30am
Class size is limited Register through Eventbrite at: https://www.eventbrite. com/cc/dcsa-1070149 For more information or to register, contact Nicole Thomas at 520.790.7573 x1739 or nthomas@pcoa.org
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Pima Council on Aging
Medicare Corner October 2022 Medicare Presentation Dates**
Come learn about:
Medicare basics – difference between Original Medicare & Medicare Advantage Medigap Policies (Supplementary coverage) Coordination of Benefits (Medicare and VA coverage, COBRA, Retiree Plans, AHCCCS, etc.)
How to enroll How to make changes Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries
**October 20th presentation will include Medicare updates for 2023.
Virtual (Zoom) Attendance Presentation
In-Person Attendance Registration:
Date
Day/Time
Location
October 6 Understanding Medicare **October 20 Will include Medicare updates for 2023
Thursday 10am – 1pm
8467 E. Broadway Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85710
Broadway office location: https://lupumedicareip. eventbrite.com Country Club office location: https://katiemedicareip. eventbrite.com
https://umvirtual22.eventbrite.com
Thursday 10am – 1pm
600 S. Country Club Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716
https://umvirtual22.eventbrite.com
For more information, contact PCOA Helpline at (520) 790-7262 or email SHIP@pcoa.org
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.
October 2022, Never Too Late | Page 5
Pima Council on Aging
Medicare Corner
Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period 2022
Protect yourself from marketing violations and enrollment fraud Medicare has rules about how plans can and cannot communicate with you to market their insurance products. Plans are allowed to send you mail and emails but are not allowed to call or visit you in person without your permission. Here are some red flags to watch out for: • Anyone who tries to pressure you to join their plan • Anyone who claims they represent or are calling on behalf of Medicare • Anyone who claims you are missing out on entitled plan benefits • Anyone threatening that you will lose your Medicare benefits unless you sign up for a certain plan If you see any of these red flags or feel you may be experiencing Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse, you can contact your Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP). SMPs can teach you how to spot and protect yourself from potential Medicare fraud.
Who to contact for more information
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): Contact your SHIP if you have questions about notices you receive or for help reviewing your options on the Plan Finder at Medicare.gov. When you contact your local SHIP, a certified counselor will give you one-on-one guidance based on your unique situation and needs. Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Contact your SMP if you experience potential Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse. SMPs can help you prevent, detect, and report such experiences.
1-800-MEDICARE: Contact Medicare if you want to change your coverage during Open Enrollment. Medicare will send you a new Medicare & You handbook in the mail each fall, containing information specific to your region. If you do not receive your copy, contact Medicare to request another one. Medicare Advantage Plan/Part D plan: Contact a plan directly if you have questions about its benefits, coverage, or costs. If you do not receive your ANOC or EOC, contact your plan to request copies.
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Pima Council on Aging
Medicare Corner
Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period
Review your coverage for 2023 Medicare Advantage and Part D plans usually change each year. Make sure that your drugs will still be covered, and your providers and pharmacies will still be in network. • If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or a stand-alone Part D plan , read your plan’s Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and Evidence of Coverage (EOC). o Explore other plans in your area.
Medicare’s Open Enrollment runs October 15 through December 7 and is the time of year when you can make certain changes to your Medicare coverage. You can make as many changes as you need to your Medicare coverage during Open Enrollment. The last change you make will take effect on January 1. Take action during Open Enrollment to ensure your coverage will meet your needs in 2023. Know the changes you can make during Medicare’s Open Enrollment The changes you can make include: • Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan • Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan • Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan) Call 1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) to make changes by phone or visit Medicare.gov to compare options and enroll in some plans online. Note: If you leave a Medicare Advantage Plan to join Original Medicare, you may also be able to purchase a Medigap policy. Medigap policies help with out-of- pocket costs and only work with Original Medicare. Contact PCOA, your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), to learn about your state-specific Medigap rights and options.
o Medicare Advantage Plans have significant flexibility in the supplemental benefits they are allowed to offer their members, including whether some benefits are offered to all members or just some members. This includes the ability to offer benefits to some members that are not directly considered medical care, like nutrition services. This means that there are many factors to consider when comparing Medicare Advantage Plan options.
You may find a cheaper plan that meets your healthcare and prescription drug needs. Research shows you can lower your costs by shopping around.
Who to contact for more information:
October 2022, Never Too Late | Page 7
Pima Council on Aging
Rights & Benefits Information ALTCS Workshop
Change Your Address and Phone Number Online with my Social Security By Stephen McGraw , Director, Division of Strategic Communications
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.
option to create your new my Social Security account with one of our two credential partners: Login.gov or ID.me. • Login.gov is the public’s one account for simple, secure, and private access to participating U.S. government agencies. • ID.me is a single sign- on provider that meets the U.S. government’s online identity proofing and authentication requirements. Please note, if you already have a Login.gov or ID.me account, you can select the appropriate button to sign in with either one and access your personal my Social Security account. If you previously verified your identity with Login.gov or ID.me , you don’t need to do so again. If you don’t have a Login.gov or ID.me account, please select the “Create an Account” link to start the one- time registration process. If you create a new Login. gov credential, we will still complete the identity verification part, so you will need to provide some personal information to us. You will also receive an activation code from us to complete the process. Remember, you can do much of your business with us online.
If you receive Social Security benefits, the easiest way to change your address and phone number is by creating a personal my Social Security account. Once you create your account, you can update your contact information from your preferred location. This feature is available for people who receive retirement, survivors, or disability benefits, along with Medicare enrollees. If you receive Supplemental Security Income, you can check the address that we have on record with your account. Visit our my Social Security webpage (https://www.ssa. gov/myaccount/) to get started. To create an account, you must: • Be at least 18 years old. • Provide a valid email address. • Have a Social Security number (SSN). • Provide a U.S. mailing address (includes military addresses, APO/FPO/DPO, AE, AP, or AA). Once you have a valid email address, you are ready to create your personal my Social Security account. When you visit my Social Security , select the “Create an Account” button. You will have the
Please join us in person. Topic: ALTCS Workshop Time: October 13, 2:30 — 4 p.m. Location: The Katie, 600 S Country Club Rd
To register , go to: https://altcsoct22.eventbrite.com, or call Donna DeLeon at 520.305.3450. The ALTCS workshop is held every month on the second Thursday. Participants who would prefer a virtual training are invited to register for our November training held on Thursday, November 10, 2022. Participants are asked to socially distance themselves; masks are optional. Space is limited; please register soon.
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Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
Meet Our Family Caregiver Support and Respite Team
Ellisette has a Bachelor’s in Public Health and has been pleased to work with older adults for 6 years through different careers ranging from caregiving to case management. “I enjoy hearing the fascinating stories our resilient elders share and being able to make a difference in their lives by connecting them with resources in our community.” During her downtime, Ellisette enjoys visiting family, watching movies, and an occasional glass of red wine. Luisa is a UArizona Wildcat and has a Bachelor’s degree in both Psychology and Spanish and enjoys working with people from different backgrounds and cultural experiences. “I find couples who have been married for a long time inspirational…and…I enjoy seeing how much love and respect they still have for each other.” In her non-work time, Luisa volunteers for the County Attorney Victim Services team, and enjoys lifting weights, meditation, and intentional relaxation. Deb holds a Master’s in Psychology and enjoys helping people to live with dignity and connectedness even when facing monumental challenges. She oversees several programs at PCOA, including Family Caregiver Support. “It is a privilege to support these amazing caregiving and respite professionals who genuinely care about the unique needs of our community’s older adults.” Deb enjoys all things coffee, spending time with family, and taking long walks. Selina has a Bachelor’s in History and has worked with PCOA for 5 years. She began her career as a paid caregiver with older adults, and developed unique perspectives (or understanding) about caregivers’ triumphs and struggles. “I enjoy working for an agency that is dedicated to improving the lives of others and I am inspired by clients’ perseverance and wiliness to adapt to unforeseen
Seated from left to right: Ellisette V., Case Manager and Luisa B., Case Manager Standing from left to right: Deb S., Director of Caregiving and Community Initiatives; Selina Linn, Aging and Caregiving Specialist; Kelley H., Aging and Caregiving Specialist; Tonetta C., Caregiver Support Group Facilitator; Mayra B., Bilingual Aging and Caregiving Specialist, and Elizabeth R., Community Services System Director
circumstances.” For self-care, Selina enjoys singing karaoke. Kelley has a Bachelor’s in Human Services and enjoys offering support to older adults in whatever way it is needed. “The last couple of years have been a huge challenge on so many levels, but our clients know they are not alone. It is such an inspiration knowing that they can set a goal and achieve that goal, one step at a time.” In her spare time, Kelley enjoys hiking and travelling, and spending quality time with her family, friends, and pets. Tonetta holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work, and has more than 20 years of experience working with individuals and families. Overseeing all 11 of PCOA’s monthly support groups, she says, “I enjoy working with older adults because of the wisdom they have about life and the world, and I am inspired by their tenacity and resiliency.” For self-care Tonetta enjoys baking, cooking, being out in nature, coloring, writing and doing anything creative noting, “It’s all therapy for me.”
Mayra has more than two decades of experience in the caring and medical fields, managing people and their needs. “I value helping clients get the best possible support and resources available,” and works with her team to ensure that each client’s unique situations are honored. Mayra finds inspiration in caregivers who often sacrifice their own lives to serve others. She enjoys working out, listening to music, thinking about inspirational messages, and making crafts. Elizabeth has a Master’s in Social Work and was privileged to intern with the Tucson VA Hospital. “While I was there, I found I loved talking with older veterans about their lives.” This turned her attention from young adults to older adults and long-term care. “I have learned so much… from listening to people share their perspectives, and I hope that my work makes a difference in people’s lives.” For leisure, Elizabeth enjoys curling up with her cats and a good book, knitting, and travelling.
October 2022, Never Too Late | Page 9
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
PCOA CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS – OCTOBER 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. 10/17, 3rd Monday, 1–2:30pm (Midtown) In Person 10/18, 3rd Tuesday , 9–10:30am Virtual ON ZOOM 10/20, 3rd Thursday, 1:30–3pm Virtual ON ZOOM 10/24, 4th Monday, 11am–12:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM 10/25, 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 10/3, 1st Monday , 1–2:30pm (East) In Person 10/4, 1st Tuesday , 12–1:30pm (Oro Valley) In Person 10/6, 1st Thursday, 1–2:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM 10/11, 2nd Tuesday, 5:30–7pm Virtual ON ZOOM 10/12, 2nd Wednesday , 1–2:30pm (Green Valley) In Person 10/13, 2nd Thursday , 1–2:30pm (East) In Person
OCTOBER
“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of Autumn.” — John Muir, The Mountains of California
*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 10 | October 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
Free training for informal, nonpaid family caregivers Caregiving Essentials: First Steps Training Schedule 2022
The Katie 600 S. Country Club, 85716 If staying for both, bring your own lunch. Coffee and water available.
Wednesday, October 12 Monday, November 7
Workshop 1: Steps to Resilience (9 am – 12:30pm)
Workshop 2: Physical Care and Safety (1:00 – 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://caregivingessentials22.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 30 for details.
October 2022, Never Too Late | Page 11
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
EnhanceFitness®
Are you looking for ways to live and age well? Practice with purpose
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 • Tucson Estates (TENHN), 5900 W Western Way Circle , 10:30–11:30 am Mondays – Recreation Hall, Wednesdays & Fridays Multi-Purpose Hall
EnhanceFitness®
Contribution Fee: $36 (per month & participant) (covers your book & supplies)
A Matter of Balance®
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.
Healthy Living with Chronic Pain®
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
Picture Rocks Community Center 5615 North Sanders Rd. Mon., Wed., Fri., 11:45 am –12:45 pm Drexel Heights Community Center 5220 South 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
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.
list and go their class listing, look for EnhanceFitness to register. ** Class Not Open Yet
Healthy Living with Chronic Pain offered in-person
(520) 305-3410 healthyliving.pcoa.org Small steps. Positive changes. Healthier living.
October 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10 Thursdays, 10 am–12:30 pm 600 S. Country Club Rd., Fitness Room
Contribution Fee: $30 (covers your book & supplies) What: A six-week program for 2.5 hours once a week
October 2022, Never Too Late | Page 13
Pima Council on Aging
Healthy Living
Looking for Volunteer Coaches! Looking for Volunteer Coaches !
A Matter of Balance® offered in person
Contribution Fee: $30.00 (covers your book and supplies) More locations will become available and are being scheduled. October 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 25 (Tues.), 26 Wednesdays & Fridays 1:30 – 3:30 pm Posada Life Community Services 780 S Park Centre Ave, Green Valley, AZ
A Matter of Balance® Chances are you know someone who has fallen or has a fear of A Matter of Balance Chances are you know someone who has fallen or who is afraid of falling. A Matter of Balance is a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity. Union County Older Adult Falls Coalition is looking for volunteers to help provide this program. Free training provided. Coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls, help to identify ways to reduce falls, and lead exercises to help increase strength and balance. What do you need to be a coach? · good communication and interpersonal skills · enthusiasm, dependability and a willingness to lead small groups of older adults · ability to lead low to moderate level exercise. For more information call 937-642-2053 or email rebecca . honaker @ uchd . net . 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. Coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls, help to identify ways to reduce falls, and lead exercises to help increase strength and balance. What do you need to be a coach? • good communication and interpersonal skills • enthusiasm, dependability and a willingness to lead small groups of older adults • ability to lead low to moderate level exercise. A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls Volunteer Lay Leader Model ©2006 This program is based on Fear of Falling: A Matter of Balance. Copyright ©1995 Trustees of Boston University. All rights reserved. Used and adapted by permission of Boston University. A Matter of Balance Lay Leader Model Recognized for Innovation and Quality in Healthcare and Aging, 2006, American Society on Aging. A Matter of Balance Lay Leader Model was developed by a grant from the Administration on Aging (#90AM2780). This work is funded either in whole or in part by a grant awarded by the Ohio Department of Health, Bureau of Healthy Ohio, Violence and Injury Prevention Program and as a sub-award of a grant issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant under the grant award number 3B01DP009042-13S1 and CFDA number 93.991. This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Classes are held twice a week for 2 hours each, for 4 weeks. 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 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 For more information and to register for an upcoming training, contact Mary O’Donoghue at mo’donoghue@pcoa.org or call 520.258.5062
A Matter of Balance® is a program designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. It includes 8 two-hour sessions for a small group 8-15 participants led by a trained facilitator.
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For more information and to register, contact Jennie at (520) 305-3410.
Page 14 | October 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Healthy Living
Listen Up! Noises Can Damage Your Hearing Sounds surround us. We enjoy many of them—like music, birdsong, and conversations with friends. But loud or long-lasting noises—from motors, power tools, and even headphones—can permanently damage your hearing. Take steps to protect your ears from harmful noises. Loud noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss. An estimated 26 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 69 already have irreversible hearing loss caused by loud sounds. And up to 16% of teens have hearing loss that may have been caused by loud noise. “Noise damage can begin at any age, and it tends to accumulate over time. That’s why avoiding excess noise is so critical,” says Dr. Gordon Hughes, a clinical trials director and ear, nose, and throat specialist at NIH. “Hearing loss caused by noise is completely preventable.” For adolescents, music players with headphones are a common source of noise exposure. “With adults it may be power tools, lawn mowers, snow blowers, and other sources of that type,” Hughes says. “Workplace noise—like farm machinery, construction, and noises associated with military service—may also cause problems.” Noise-related hearing loss can arise from extremely loud bursts of sound, such as gunshots or explosions, which can rupture the eardrum or damage the bones in the middle ear. This kind of hearing loss can be immediate and permanent.
But most noise-related hearing problems develop slowly over time, with ongoing exposure to loud sounds. Loud noises can injure the delicate sensory cells—known as hair cells—in the inner ear. “These cells have little hair-like tufts on one side,” Hughes says. Hair cells help to convert sound vibrations into electrical signals that travel along nerves from the ear to the brain. These cells allow us to detect sounds. But when hair cells are damaged and then destroyed by too much noise, they don’t grow back. So hearing is permanently harmed. Sometimes loud noises can cause tinnitus—ringing in the ears that lasts anywhere from a brief period to a lifetime. Loud noises can also cause temporary hearing loss that goes away within hours or a couple of days. “But some research suggests that even though the symptoms disappear, there may be molecular or chemical abnormalities that build up and cause potential for long-term damage to hearing,” Hughes says.
problems. The louder the sound, the quicker the damage. “At maximum volume, an audio player with ear buds might produce 105 dB. There’s potential for noise damage to occur at barely 30 minutes of exposure,” Hughes says. A siren may be 120 dB, a rock concert 110 dB, a motorcycle 95 dB, and a lawn mower 90 dB. All these have the potential to harm hearing over time. “Wear ear protection such as ear plugs if the sound can’t be avoided. Or just get away from the sound, or reduce it, like turning down the volume on an audio player,” Hughes says. Foam insert earplugs can keep some sound intensity from reaching the eardrum, as can protective earmuffs, available at hardware and sport stores. For better ear protection, talk with a hearing specialist about getting a custom-fitted ear mold. Finally, don’t forget to protect the ears of children who are too young to protect their own. And get a hearing test if you think you or a loved one might have hearing loss. Source: NIH News in Health, Jan. 2015, National Institutes of Health, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
It’s best to avoid loud noises when possible. But how loud is too loud?
Sound is measured in units called decibels (dB). Sounds less than 75 dB are unlikely to harm hearing. Normal conversation, for instance, measures about 60 dB. A typical hair blow dryer has an intensity of about 85 dB, but if they’re used for just brief periods, they’re unlikely to damage hearing. However, long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 dB can cause
October 2022, Never Too Late | Page 15
Pima Council on Aging
Healthy Living What older adults do while they sit affects dementia risk, study finds Researchers explored the link
"Although we know that physical activity is good for our brain health, many of us think that if we are just more physically active during the day, we can counter the negative effects of time spent sitting," said study co-author Gene Alexander, a professor in the UArizona Department of Psychology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute. "Our findings suggest that the brain impacts of sitting during our leisure activities are really separate from how physically active we are, and that being more mentally active, like when using computers, may be a key way to help counter the increased risk of dementia related to more passive sedentary behaviors, like watching TV." Researchers used self-reported data from the UK Biobank, a large-scale biomedical database of more than 500,000 participants across the United Kingdom, to investigate possible correlations between sedentary, leisure activity and dementia in older adults. More than 145,000 participants aged 60 and older – all of whom did not have a diagnosis of dementia at the start of the project – used touchscreen questionnaires to self-report information about their levels of sedentary behavior during the 2006-2010 baseline examination period. After an average of nearly 12 years of follow-up, the researchers used hospital inpatient records to determine dementia diagnosis. They found 3,507 positive cases. "Our ability to ask and answer these research questions is a testament to large- scale biomedical databases linked to medical records, such as the UK Biobank," said study co-author Yann Klimentidis, an associate professor of epidemiology and biostatics in the UArizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health.
"They increasingly allow us to gain new insights into risk factors for dementia and many other diseases." The team adjusted for certain demographics – such as a person's age, sex, race/ethnicity and employment type – and lifestyle characteristics – such as exercise, smoking, alcohol use, and time spent sleeping and engaging in social contact – that could affect brain health. The results remained the same even after the scientists accounted for levels of physical activity. Even in individuals who are highly physically active, time spent watching TV was associated with an increased risk of dementia. In contrast, leisure-time spent using a computer was associated with a reduced risk of developing dementia. "Our study shows that physical activity doesn't fully mitigate the risk of dementia from too much sitting in the same way it does for other diseases, however what we do while we're sitting matters," Raichlen said. "This knowledge is critical when it comes to designing targeted public health interventions aimed at reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disease from sedentary activities through positive behavior change." In addition to Raichlen, Alexander and Klimentidis, other authors of the study include Pradyumna K. Bharadwaj of UArizona and M. Katherine Sayre, Mark H.C. Lai and Rand R. Wilcox of USC. The study was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health (P30AG072980, P30AG019610, R56AG067200, R01AG049464, R01AG72445), the state of Arizona and Arizona Department of Health Services, and the McKnight
between sedentary behavior and risk of dementia and found that type of activity matters when it comes to brain aging. Older adults who spend a lot of time watching TV might have an increased risk of developing dementia. Adults ages 60 and older who sit for long periods watching TV or engaging in other passive, sedentary behaviors may be at increased risk of developing dementia, according to a new study by University of Arizona and University of Southern California researchers. The study also showed that the risk is lower for those who are more active while sitting – engaging in behaviors like reading or using computers. "It isn't the time spent sitting, per se, but the type of sedentary activity performed during leisure time that impacts dementia risk," said lead study author David Raichlen, who was previously on the UArizona faculty and is now a professor of biological sciences and anthropology at USC. "We know from past studies that watching TV involves low levels of muscle activity and energy use compared with using a computer or reading," Raichlen said. "And while research has shown that uninterrupted sitting for long periods is linked with reduced blood flow in the brain, the relatively greater intellectual stimulation that occurs during computer use may counteract the negative effects of sitting." The study also revealed that the link between sedentary behavior and dementia risk persisted even among participants who were physically active.
Brain Research Foundation. Source: Unviversity of Arizona
Page 16 | October 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
PCOA Puzzle
October Puzzle
63 Lettuce variety 65 Building extension at a right angle 67 Gaza Strip grp. 68 Pray in Latin 70 Minnelli with a zee 72 Weeders' tools 73 Country music's --- Tucker 74 "--- in the Dark" (Streep movie) 75 Appetite 76 "--- there, done that" 77 Podded vegetables 78 "--- Porter" (Johnny Cash song) Down 1 Diamond weight unit 7 Abundance 8 Grand view 9 Actress/director/producer --- Lupino 10 Bombard 11 Preserve 12 Pharmacist's container 15 Latin law 20 Provide 22 Banned insecticide 25 Possess 27 Show --- (entertainment industry) 29 Rancid 30 Support column 31 Apparatus 33 Slender fork-tailed gull 34 Gunk 35 Drifter 36 Floating bubbles 37 Low calorie variety 38 Loads 40 Long slippery fish 44 Fifth sign of the zodiac 47 Freq. unit 49 Type of computer connection 51 Low 53 Suffer 55 Huge amount 57 Pollen grain 58 Lament 59 Small winning margin 60 Military bed 61 Dingy 62 Malacca 64 Strike with an open hand 65 Writer --- Pound 66 Sung poems 69 Whiskey variety 71 Diamonds 72 Bewildered response 2 Writer --- Asimov 3 Room for relaxing 4 Buddhist actor Richard --- 5 Tennis server's edge 6 Attack command
30 Noncom 32 Irritate 36 Open pastry dessert
Across 1 Spanish hero El --- 4 Deep cut 8 Big cheeses 12 Flower jar 13 --- Falco, Nurse Jackie 14 Paragon 16 Formerly Persia 17 Rich, in Spain 18 Soothing ointment 19 Small cell 20 Author 21 Oregon summer clock setting 23 Lone Star State (Abbr.) 24 One over a major 26 Small amount 28 Neighbor of Neb.
39 Carnival 41 Nothing 42 Lubricate 43 Untamed
45 Chafe 46 Speck 48 Enticement 49 Software menu option 50 Crystal --- 51 Tucson time 52 West Atlantic international grp. 54 Menagerie 56 "A Doll's House" dramatist 60 Atlanta-based health grp.
Answers: following page October 2022, Never Too Late | Page 17
Pima Council on Aging
Information
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Page 18 | October 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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