Never Too Late - February 2022

Never Too Late Para información en Español ver páginas 23 - 25

February 2022 What’s News • Aging in Our Community • Dementia Capable SoAZ • Medicare Presentation & SMP Info • Rights & Benefits: ALTCS Workshop • Caregiving • Healthy Living • PCOA Puzzle • Advocacy • Neighbors Care Alliance • Visibility Matters • CareGiver Training Institute

Heart Health Month

• PimaCare at Home • HomeMatch Pima

P U B L I C AT I ON O F P I MA COU N C I L ON AG I N G , H E L P I N G P I MA COU N T Y AG E WE L L S I N C E 1 9 6 7

Independence. Vitality. Respect.

Inside • Aging in Our Community 3 • Dementia Capable SoAZ 4 • Medicare Presentations & SMP 5-6 • Rights & Benefits 7 - 10 • Caregiving 11 - 14 • Healthy Living 16 - 20 • PCOA Puzzle 21 - 22 • Nunca Es Demasiado Tarde 23 - 25 • Ending Life Well 26

• Advocacy 27 • Senior Companion Program 28 • Neighbors Care Alliance 29 - 30 • Visibility Matters 32 • HomeMatch Pima 33 • 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 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. Editorial and Advertising Deadline for Next Issue FEBRUARY 4 2022

On the Cover: Detail from Intaglio by Anita Goss 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.

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Page 2 | February 2022, Never Too Late

Pima Council on Aging

Aging in Our Community A Message from W. Mark Clark, President and CEO

Heart Health

February is American Heart Month, and in today’s climate, focusing on our health, including heart health, is more important than ever. With rising cases and the threat of COVID-19 still looming in our community, we know that older people, especially those with underlying health conditions like hypertension and heart disease, are more likely to experience serious illness from COVID-19. Here at PCOA, we are doing all we can to promote good heart health while continuing to increase our community’s immunity to COVID-19. This month you’ll find a wide array of class offerings from PCOA, including EnhanceFitness and A Matter of Balance. Our Healthy Living Programs focus on managing our own personal health, staying fit, and maintaining and improving our quality of life. We invite you to join us remotely or for in-person classes with safety precautions in place. Visit our virtual Healthy Aging Center at TheKatie. org to find and register for upcoming classes, as well as health and wellness videos that will help you get moving and decrease your risk for heart disease. We know the pandemic has been tough and that remote classes are not accessible for everyone, nor do they provide the same opportunities for social connection as interacting with others in person. One participant

were able to knock on over 100,000 doors, make over 75,000 phone calls, talk to over 12,500 people, and get commitments to vaccinate more than 8,000 people. Arizona Center for Empowerment did a wonderful job, and we can’t be more appreciative of their work. PCOA is continuing that work to educate and encourage people to get vaccinated, and we need your help. Volunteering to go door to door or make phone calls is the most effective way to encourage people to get their COVID-19 vaccination. We are working to break down barriers, have community conversations, and increase our health. Contact Maddy Bynes at mbynes@pcoa.org or (520) 790-7573 x 1768 for information about volunteering with this important effort. I’m excited to knock on some doors myself. It reminds me of the roots of my career when I started in community organizing in the 1970s. Whatever activities you enjoy, I hope you’ll join me in getting up, getting moving, and keeping your heart

in one of our healthy living classes in his 90s expressed how excited he was to hear that in early fall of 2021 we began offering in-person classes again. He knew and understood the risks of attending an in-person class, but didn’t want to miss out on the social engagement that had made his life so fulfilling up until the pandemic. Balancing the very real wellness benefits of socialization with concerns about physical health and safety has been one of PCOA’s greatest challenges during the pandemic, as I know it has been for each one of us. PCOA’s in-person events follow CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including requiring that participants mask up and remain physically distanced from each other. Safety precautions, coupled with receiving the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shot, make participating in in-person events a realistic possibility for so many older adults. Speaking of the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shot, I want to highlight some of the great work we are doing here at PCOA increase our community’s immunity to COVID-19. Throughout the past year, we’ve been working with Arizona Center for Empowerment, a local community organizing group, to organize volunteers to go door-to-door and make phone calls encouraging people to take their COVID-19 vaccinations and get their booster shots. In 2021, in partnership, we

healthy. Be well,

W. Mark Clark President & CEO

February 2022, Never Too Late | Page 3

Pima Council on Aging

Dementia Capable Southern Arizo na

February is American Heart Month, and our heart health directly impacts our cognitive health. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) Director, Dr. Walter J. Koroshetz, reminds us of how important it is to control “vascular risk factors like high blood pressure early in life in an effort to prevent dementia as we age. What’s good for the heart is good for the brain. ” Heart disease risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, elevated blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking, have also been shown to be risk factors for dementia. General cognitive decline is particularly significant in individuals with high cholesterol. The good news is that you can take steps to reduce your risk of cognitive decline and make a positive impact on your heart health at the same time. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified at least a dozen things that can easily be done. Steps to a healthy heart and brain:

Memory Cafés A Memory Café is a warm, welcoming environment for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. They are designed to include family members and caregivers as well (if they are involved), for a shared experience. Additionally, they can be helpful for people with all forms of mild cognitive impairment. They are a place to talk with others who understand what you are going through, to forget your limitations and instead focus on strengths, socialize, and explore something new. All cafés have a shared goal – to help guests feel comfortable and to know that they are not alone. Let It Be – Memory Café is hosting a virtual concert series, each month a different local band or musical will come and provide musical entertainment for your enjoyment! The next café will be Sunday February 20th 2022, from 1:00pm-2:00pm via Zoom (click here) February’s musical theme will be Country/Rodeo with special guest singer & songwriter Freddy Parish! Zoom Meeting ID: 869 9389 8633 Passcode: 225829 Contact: Marven Page – 520.477.2389 or MPage@ichd.net

• Eat healthy foods – consult a medical professional about nutrition options for your heart and brain health • Stop smoking and limit alcohol • Stay physically active (For adults 65 and over, WHO recommends at

Volunteers Needed One of the greatest gifts you can give is your time. Volunteering is a great way to help those with memory loss. If you enjoy hosting parties or

least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity per week) • Stay mentally active – engaging in activities that stimulate your brain • See your doctor – diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can all increase your risk of heart issues and dementia If you have one or more risk factors for dementia and heart disease, talk to your doctor and make a plan to get them under control. Your plan may include dietary, activity, other lifestyle changes or medication. Establishing or continuing healthy habits can help to mitigate current risk factors and may decrease the risk for others later in life – helping you in the path to a healthier heart and brain. A healthy brain and a healthy heart—that’s a win-win!

Memory concerns? Call the PCOA Helpline at 520.790.7262 or visit our website to complete a referral form online https://www.pcoa.org/dementiareferral/ To learn more about becoming a Memory Café volunteer contact Mary O’Donoghue, Volunteer Services Coordinator at 520.258.5062 . events, spending time getting to know others, and showing others that they are valued and appreciated, volunteering at a memory café might be a great fit for you. Like many of our programs, Memory Cafés rely on the dedication and commitment of volunteers.

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Pima Council on Aging

2022 Medicare Presentation Medicare Corner

Hosted by Green Valley Recreation, Las Campanas No Registration required Wednesday February 23, 2022, 10 am to 1 pm - Virtual via Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83759330323 For more information contact PCOA SHIP 520.546.2011 ship@pcoa.org

This project was supported, in part by grant number 90SAPG0049, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy 02/05/21

Medicare 2022 — Did you know? Know your opportunities to change coverage in 2022. Excerpt from Medicare Minute shared by 2022 Medicare Rights Cente r

You may be able to change your coverage in 2022 outside of the Open Enrollment Period, depending on your circumstances. • If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan , you have one opportunity from January 1 through March 31 to change your plan or switch back to Original Medicare with or without a prescription drug plan. • You might also qualify to return to your Medigap plan if you had one. • If you think a government employee made a mistake while assisting you , contact 1-800-MEDICARE and explain your situation. You may be approved to change your coverage. • If you have Extra Help, an assistance program that helps pay for Part D prescription drug costs, you can make one change per quarter for the first three quarters of the year. Understand that the public health emergency may affect your coverage in 2022.

Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, or PHE , certain flexibilities have been in place and some restrictions lifted in 2020 and 2021. Examples of these flexibilities include expanded coverage of telehealth services. • Coverage for 90-day supplies of prescription drugs when requested. • As of December 17, 2021, the PHE declaration will be in place through January 16, 2022. The PHE declaration has been extended multiple times previously, but there is no indication that it will again be extended. If the PHE expires, many of the current flexibilities and lifted restrictions may expire as well. Congress and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are working to extend some of these flexibilities, regardless of the PHE status, so details of how these Medicare coverage rules will change are still being discussed. To stay up to date on this evolving conversation, pay attention to the news, your local SHIP, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, or CMS for short.

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Pima Council on Aging

SMP Corner Senior Medicare Patrol Excerpt from Medicare Minute 2022

Marketing violations that could affect your 2022 coverage. Medicare Advantage Plans and stand-alone Part D plans are administered, marketed, and sold by private companies. Plan representatives, agents, and brokers must follow federal guidelines when marketing to you. These guidelines protect you from manipulative/ deceptive sale and enrollment tactics that can lead to marketing violations by a plan. Here are some red flags: • You signed up for a plan after being told by an agent or company that certain services or prescriptions were covered, but after enrolling, you discovered they were not covered by that plan. • A company represented itself as coming from or sent by Medicare, Social Security, or Medicaid. • You received an unsolicited phone call or text from a plan with which you have no prior relationship, you have asked not to contact you, or of which you disenrolled from. • A plan agent returned uninvited to your residence after missing an earlier appointment. • An agent discussed other insurance products, such as life insurance or annuities, during a visit or meeting that was scheduled to only discuss a Part D or Medicare Advantage product. Take Action: 1. Review and understand your Medicare health costs. If you have Original Medicare, review your Medicare & You 2022 handbook or request one by calling 1-800-MEDICARE. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, see the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), or call your plan to learn more about your costs and coverage. 2. If you are unhappy with your coverage for 2022, find out if you can make changes during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period or during a Special Enrollment Period. Contact your SHIP for help. 3. Pay attention to the news, your SHIP, and CMS for any updates on how the public health emergency may affect Medicare coverage rules in 2022. 4. Contact your Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) if you enrolled in a plan because of misleading information or were enrolled in a plan without your consent. Local SMP- PCOA 520.790.7573 x 2019 Lkhumal@pcoa.org This project was supported, in part by grant number 90SAPG0049, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy

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Pima Council on Aging

Rights & Benefits Information

Plan Ahead for Phase Out of 3G Cellular Networks and Service

ALTCS Workshop 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.

If your mobile phone is more than a few years old, you may need to upgrade your device before your mobile provider shuts down its 3G network, to avoid losing service. For more information on your mobile providers’ plans for 3G retirement and how you can prepare, contact your provider directly. What is happening? Mobile carriers are shutting down their 3G networks, which rely on older technology, to make room for more advanced network services, including 5G. As a result, many older cell phones will be unable to make or receive calls and texts, including calls to 911, or use data services. This will affect 3G mobile phones and certain older 4G mobile phones that do not support Voice over LTE (VoLTE or HD Voice). Learn more about other connected devices, such as medical devices and home security systems that may be impacted below. When is it happening? As early as January 1, 2022, though plans and timing to phase out 3G services will vary by company and may change. Consult your mobile provider’s website for the most up-to-date information. • AT&T announced that it will finish shutting down its 3G network by February 2022. • Verizon announced that will finish shutting down its 3G network by December 31, 2022. • T-Mobile announced that it will finish shutting down Sprint's 3G CDMA network by March 31, 2022 and Sprint's 4G LTE network by June 30, 2022. It also announced it will shut down T-Mobile's 3G UMTS network by July 1, 2022, but has not yet announced a shutdown date for its 2G network. If your mobile carrier is not listed here, you may still be affected. Many carriers, such as Cricket, Boost, Straight Talk, and several Lifeline mobile service providers, utilize AT&T’s, Verizon’s, and T-Mobile’s networks.

Join us by computer, tablet or phone. Topic: ALTCS Workshop Time: February 10, 2:30 p.m. MST. Every month on the Second Thursday. Please join ALTCS Presentation on Zoom from your computer, tablet, or phone. Join Zoom Meeting https://pcoa-org.zoom.us/j/85133312275?pwd=d1Q0TE VvTWR6eG1OeFpMSmhIZ2xtZz09

Or call +1 669 900 9128 US Meeting ID: 851 3331 2275 Passcode: 114461

To register , go to: https://altcsfeb22.eventbrite.com, or call Donna DeLeon at 520.790.7573 ext 1750.

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Pima Council on Aging

Rights & Benefits Information

Plan Ahead for Phase Out of 3G (continued from previous page)

Note: These are dates for completing the shutdowns. Carriers may begin retiring parts of their networks sooner. What do I need to do? Contact your mobile provider or consult your provider’s website for more information about their 3G retirement plan and whether your phone, or other connected device, may be affected. It is important to plan now so that you don’t lose connectivity, including the ability to call 911. Some carrier websites provide lists of devices that will no longer be supported after 3G networks are shut down. You may need to upgrade to a newer device to ensure that you can stay connected, and carriers may be offering discounted or free upgrades to help consumers who need to upgrade their phones. Some devices may only require a software update to enable VoLTE (HD Voice) or other advanced services. If you purchased your phone independent of a mobile provider, you should be able to check whether your device is 4G LTE (with VoLTE or HD Voice) enabled by checking your phone’s settings or user manual, or by searching your phone’s model number on the internet, to determine whether you need to purchase a new device or install a software update. Does this just impact phones? No, other devices, such as certain medical devices, tablets, smart watches, vehicle SOS services, home security systems, and other connected products may be using 3G network services. And don't

forget about devices that use cellular connectivity as a back-up when a wired internet connection goes down. If the device is not labeled, contact the monitoring company or other service provider to confirm how the device connects and whether your device may be impacted. Why are 3G networks being phased out? As mobile carriers seek to upgrade their networks to use the latest technologies, they periodically shut down older services, such as 3G, to free up spectrum and infrastructure to support new services, such as 5G. Similar transitions have happened before. For example, some mobile carriers shut down their 2G networks when they upgraded their networks to support 4G services. Mobile carriers have the flexibility to choose the types of technologies and services they deploy, including when they decommission older services in favor of newer services to meet consumer demands. Need Other Help Staying Connected? As mentioned above, your mobile service provider may be offering special deals on new devices, including some deals that might include a free cell phone. In addition, although they do not cover the cost of new devices, other FCC programs may be able to assist eligible consumers with the cost of phone or internet services: • The FCC’s Lifeline program may be able to assist eligible consumers in getting connected to phone

and internet services. The program provides a discount on phone service for qualifying low-income consumers to ensure that all Americans have the opportunities and security that phone service brings, including being able to connect to jobs, family and emergency services. You can learn more about the Lifeline Program and find out if you may be eligible here. • In addition, The FCC’s Emergency Broadband Benefit Program provides a temporary discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can learn more about the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, what it covers, and find out if you may be eligible here. Additional Resources To learn more about 5G, visit our FAQs page (fcc.gov/5g-faqs). For more on the FCC's 5G strategy, visit the FCC's America's 5G Future ( https:// www.fcc.gov/5G). For more information on consumer issues, visit the FCC’s Consumer Help Center at www.fcc.gov/consumers. Source: Federal Communications Commission · Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau · 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) · TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) · www.fcc. gov/consumer-governmental-affairs-bureau

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Pima Council on Aging

Rights & Benefits Information

Tax breaks for older adults

There are three types of tax programs for which you may be eligible:

• Applications made after October 1st , 2022, may only be eligible for a reduction to the second half of 2022 property taxes. • Additional restrictions may apply, contact the Pima County Assessor Valuation Relief team for more information. **These amounts are taxable income (non-taxable Social Security and Railroad Retirement are not included as taxable income) Call PCOA’s Helpline at (520)790-7262 or the Tax Assessor’s office at (520)724-8630 or AsrValRelief@pima.gov in Tucson for written information and application locations. 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 $40,368 for an individual property owner or $50,460 for two or more property owners. • The annual application period is from February 28 (or after receipt of annual property valuation) until September 1, 2022. Under the terms of the Senior Property Valuation Protection Option, the evaluation of the older adult’s home can be ‘frozen’ at the current year’s valuation so that the value does not increase. The Pima County Board of Supervisors may still levy additional taxes. For more details about this program, Call PCOA’s Helpline at (520)790-7262 or the County Assessor’s office at (520)724-8630 in Tucson. 3

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 2021. • Age 65 or older by 12/31/2021 or a recipient of Supplemental Security Income (SSI). • Limited household income. Call PCOA’s Helpline at 520-790-7262 for income guidelines. • You paid property taxes and/or rent in 2021.

Call PCOA’s Helpline at 790-7262 in Tucson for 140PTC forms, or to make an appointment for assistance in completing this form. PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE PIMA COUNTY ASSESSOR OR TREASURER OFFICES REGARDING THIS FORM. This program is available during normal tax season from January through April 15, 2022. PCOA will be providing telephone appointments and some in-person appointments for assistance beginning the last week in January. Qualifications for widow/widower and disability exemption applicants: • The applicant must be a widow, widower, or 100% disabled as of January 1 of the year you are filing for exemption. • The applicant must be a permanent Arizona Resident. • The applicant must be over the age of 17. • Income limitations ** o $34,901 for applicant, including spouse’s income and/or income of children over the age of 18 who reside in the home o $41,870 for applicant with dependent children under the age of 18 residing in the home o $41,870 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) • The Assessed Value limitation is $28,459 Residential Property for each owner. • Applicants must have owned the subject property as of January 1 of the year you are filing for exemptions. • Applicants can file for current tax year only and not for any prior years. 2

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Pima Council on Aging

How to Get Help from Social Security Social Security is here to help. We want you to know how to get the service you need and to be prepared so we can help you as quickly and safely as possible. How to Get Help from Social Security Social Security is here to help. We want you to know how to get the service you need and to be prepared so we can help you as quickly and safely as possible.

Rights & Benefits Information

Crypto — Same Scams, Different Currency Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum and Dogecoin are soaring in popularity. Indeed, these virtual currencies, which are not regulated, can lead to profit for some investors. And scammers are more than happy to adapt traditional scams to this new space to try to line their own pockets along the way. How It Works • Websites promising huge returns if you invest in crypto with the company. • “Celebrities” offering investment opportunities in virtual currency. • Online love interests who either ask for financial help via cryptocurrency or seek to convince you to invest in crypto with them. • You get a call from a Medicare plan company offering a special “deal” on a new plan during open enrollment — perhaps with a free gift or limited-time offer. What You Should Know: • Pitches that claim that virtual currency investments offer little or no risk are seeking to deceive you. The value of virtual currencies is driven entirely by supply and demand, which can create wild swings that can produce big gains, but also big losses. • Most celebrities do not manage their own social media accounts, and those who do typically won’t engage directly with fans, especially with unsolicited investment opportunities. • Romance scams proliferate online, and not only on dating apps. Be wary of those you meet online who seek to grow a personal relationship with you. What You Should Do • Understand the risk: Even if it’s not a scam, cryptocurrency is a new and highly volatile way to invest. • Never invest in a virtual currency (or in anything, for that matter) at the

If you cannot use our website call our National 800 Number or your local Social Security office for help.

Go online to SSA.gov. Our website is the best way for most people to get help.

We will schedule an appointment for you, if necessary , to serve you by phone or in-person.

What to Know if You Must Visit an Office: • You must have an appointment to visit an office.

If you cannot use our website call our National 800 Number or your local Social Security office for help.

Go online to SSA.gov. Our website is the best way for most people to get help.

We will schedule an appointment for you, if necessary , to serve you by phone or in-person.

What to Know if You Must Visit an Office: • You must have an appointment to visit an office. • Masks are required for all office visitors and employees, regardless of vaccination status. • Visitor capacity is limited to follow physic l distancing r quirements. This means you may need to wait outside , so plan for cold or bad weather. • We ask that you come alone unless you require help with your visit . If you require help, we can only permit one person to accompany you. We appreciate your patience and understanding. • Masks are required for all office visitors and employees, regardless of vaccination status. • Visitor capacity is limited to follow physical distancing requirements. This means you may need to wait outside , so plan for cold or bad weather. • We ask that you come alone unless you require help with your visit . If you require help, we can only permit one person to accompany you. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

SSA.gov

Social Security Administration Publication No. 05-10558 December 2021 (First edition) How to Get Help from Social Security Produced and published at U.S. taxpayer expense

SSA.gov so you can better protect yourself and loved ones. We also advocate at the state, federal and local levels to enact policy changes that protect consumers and enforce laws. AARP’s Fraud Watch Network ( https://www. aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/ ) can help you spot and avoid scams. Sign up for free Watchdog Alerts, review our scam-tracking map, or call our toll-free fraud helpline at 877-908-3360 if you or a loved one suspect you’ve been a victim. Social Security Administration Publication No. 05-10558 December 2021 (First edition) How to Get Help from Social Security Produced and published at U.S. taxpayer expense

urging of someone who contacts you out of the blue or whom you have only met online. • Never share your “private keys,” the long letter-and-number codes that allow you to access your virtual currency, with anyone. Keep them in a secure place. Knowledge gives you power over scams. The AARP Fraud Watch Network equips you with reliable, up-to-date insights and connects you to our free fraud helpline

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Pima Council on Aging

Caregiving

Finding Meaning and Hope is designed for full-time, part-time, or long-distance informal caregivers of loved ones with dementia or other conditions where the care recipient is physically present but psychologically absent. The term coined by Dr. Boss to describe this is “ambiguous loss.” It gives a name to the caregivers’ ongoing experience of loss and grief. The video series is the basis for structured weekly conversations led by a trained facilitator from the Pima Council on Aging (PCOA), Family Caregiver Support Program, to help equip caregivers with tools to reduce stress and build resilience. A 20-minute video with Dr. Boss and Family caregivers is shared at each class followed by discussion on the topic in the video. Here are the topics of what will be discussed. Week 1 – The Ambiguous Loss of Dementia: How Absence and Presence Coexist Week 2 – The Complications of Both Loss and Grief Week 3 – Stress, Coping, and Resiliency Week 4 – The Myth of Closure Week 5 – The Psychological Family Week 6 – Family Rituals, Celebrations, and Gatherings Week 7 – Seven Guidelines for the Journey, Part I Week 8 – Seven Guidelines for the Journey, Part II Week 9 – Delicious Ambiguity Week 10 – The Good-Enough Relationship These classes are offered in a safe and confidential environment in which to share, develop friendships and build support for being a resilient caregiver. Register through Eventbrite at https://findingmeaningandhopejan22.eventbrite.com For more information or to register in person, contact Deb Waring at PCOA 520-790-7573 ext 3407, dwaring@pcoa.org. Class size is limited. Pre-registration is required.

Join a group of fellow caregivers as we discuss the complexities of ongoing loss associated with caring for someone with dementia and what to do about it. You will learn skills to help you stay strong, healthy, resilient, and positive so you can navigate the journey with healing and hope. This discussion series features videos based on the groundbreaking book, Loving Someone Who Has Dementia: How to Find Hope While Coping with Stress and Grief by Pauline Boss, Ph.D., the nation’s leading expert on caregiver grief. Finding Meaning and Hope Video Discussion Series Details: Where: The Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center 600 S Country Club Rd., Tucson, 85716 When: Wednesdays, January 5 through March 9* Time: 1:00 – 2:30 pm

Thanks to our community partners

*Event subject to change due to health precautions. See page 33 for details.

February 2022, Never Too Late | Page 11

Pima Council on Aging

Caregiving

PCOA CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS – FEBRUARY Three are currently being held by Zoom plus seven 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. Questions or to RSVP : call Sam in Caregiver Support at (520) 790-7573, Ext. 3405 Participation in the groups can be in person (7 groups), by telephone or by computer/tablet/smartphone w/ video. 2/1, Tuesday , 12–1:30pm (Oro Valley) *IN PERSON 2/3, Thursday , 1–2:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM 2/7, Monday , 1–2:30pm (East) *IN PERSON 2/8, Tuesday, 5:30–7pm (Midtown) *IN PERSON 2/10, Thursday, 1–2:30pm (Midtown) *IN PERSON

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. In–person support group participants are required to wear masks and social distance. 2/14, Monday , 1–2:30pm (Green Valley) *IN PERSON 2/15, Tuesday , 9–10:30am Virtual ON ZOOM 2/17, Thursday, 1:30–3pm (Midtown) *IN PERSON 2/22, Tuesday , 9–10:30am (Southwest) Tucson Estates *IN PERSON 2/28, Monday , 11am–12:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM

FEBRUARY

“Caregiving will never be one-size-fits-all.” — Nancy L. Kriseman

*Event subject to change due to health precautions. See page 33 for details.

To reserve a space or if you have any questions, please contact Sam at PCOA Caregiver Support, sbandiera@pcoa.org, (520) 790-7573 Ext. 3405

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Pima Council on Aging

Caregiving

Free training for informal, nonpaid family caregivers Caregiving Essentials: First Steps Training Schedule 2022 Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center 600 S. Country Club, 85716

Monday, May 9 Monday, June 8

Monday, Feb 7 Friday, March 4 Wed., April 13

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 (1:00 – 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 Debra Waring 520.790.7573 ext. 3407; dwaring@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. *Events subject to change due to health precautions. See page 33 for details.

February 2022, Never Too Late | Page 13

Pima Council on Aging

Caregiving

Bon Appétit By Ana Daniel , PCOA Aging and Caregiving Specialist

them out https://www.jellydrops.com. The internet also shares how to make these. • Having trouble chewing and/or swallowing, cut food into smaller pieces or puree foods like chicken soup or cooked canned beans. • For the light eaters, try eating small snacks throughout the day and/or smaller portions of food. Blueberries make a perfect snack or dessert. They can be a finger food and be eaten with nut butter for glucose management and added protein. • If taste or lack of smell are an issue, try cooking with aromatics (garlic, onion, rosemary, cumin, etc.) and include meals with vibrant cooked veggies (carrots, bell peppers, sweet potato). • If there is overindulging in unhealthy sweets, then swap them out for a fruit smoothie that contains frozen unsweetened berries, kale or spinach, and protein powder or unsweetened nut butter. • Explore a meal with varying temperatures and consistencies. For dinner make seasoned chicken with steamed carrots and pureed sweet potatoes. For dessert make a fruit smoothie. • Consider whether there might be food sensitivity to the top 8 allergens. (Gluten, cow’s milk, peanuts, fish, nuts, eggs, corn, and soy). These allergens can cause digestive issues that can decrease appetite and affect our overall health. • Do you need a break from cooking? Try making enough food to have as leftovers so you don’t have to cook the

When our loved ones are dealing with an illness or are experiencing physical changes as older adults tend to do, their desire to eat can diminish and/or their food preferences can change suddenly. As someone who is caring for this person, you might feel exhausted and hopeless not knowing how to navigate this situation. It can be useful to explore different foods and drinks that might be helpful in increasing appetite and identifying your loved one’s food preferences. Keep in mind whether your loved ones are getting enough nourishment from the foods they eat. A good place to start is by finding out why they might not be eating well; that way you can better understand their situation and help them accordingly. There is no universal solution for appetite loss, but below are some possible considerations that might help. I encourage you to consider them and to experiment for yourself. Food tips that may be useful: • Finger foods often are more appealing than chasing peas around a plate. If they like finger foods, leave green beans long if needed, they can pick them up like it was a French fry. Serve sweet potato tots instead of French fries for added nutrition. • Not drinking enough water really saps energy; try edible water drops that look like candy but give hydration to the body. Here is a website to check

next day. You can also freeze leftovers and enjoy them on days where you might feel tired or don’t have time to cook. • It is okay to need and accept help. PCOA can be here to support you on your caregiving journey. Contact our helpline at PCOA to see if you or your loved one can qualify to receive delivered meals from our Home Delivered Meal Program. Call our helpline at 520-790-7262, or help@PCOA.org. • Another idea is to be screened to see if you can receive respite care that can provide help with meal preparation and to give you a break from caregiving. Contact our helpline to be screened for this service. • You can also speak to our family caregiver support team if you need guidance with meal and nutrition ideas or problem solving. Just let the helpline know of your request to speak with our Aging and Caregiver specialists.

Page 14 | February 2022, Never Too Late

Pima Council on Aging

Information

We are excited to launch a new phase of our Take YOUR Shot campaign to encourage community members to get their COVID-19 vaccine, boosters, and flu shot. This new iteration of the campaign is multifaceted and focuses on both community organizing and media, including print, TV, radio, and social media. In December, we sent canvassers to neighborhoods to speak directly with residents about why it’s important to get vaccinated and to help unvaccinated residents find vaccination sites near them. This community outreach is essential to increasing the access people have and the accurate information they receive about vaccines, and it cannot be accomplished without community members like you. We need YOUR help! We are currently seeking volunteers and will provide all the training and talking points required, so there is no experience needed. If you are interested in helping your community get vaccinated and providing Tucson residents with updated information about vaccines, please reach out to Maddy Bynes at mbynes@pcoa.org and (520) 790-7573 ext.

The CDC is now recommending COVID-19 booster shots for people 12 years of age and older. If you received Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine, you should get your booster shot at least 2 months after. If you received Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech’s vaccine, you should get your booster shot at least 6 months after your second dose. COVID vaccines, booster shots, and flu shots are all available at multiple locations throughout Pima County. Please visit covid19.pcoa.org for the latest recommendations and current resources. Be sure to like and share our videos, and talk to your family and friends about getting their vaccines. To get your questions answered and to schedule a free at-home vaccine appointment for a COVID vaccine, booster shot, or flu shot, please call (520) 222-0119.

February 2022, Never Too Late | Page 15

Pima Council on Aging

Healthy Living

The Aging Mastery Program (AMP) classes Tuesdays, February 15 – April 19, 2022, 1:30 – 3:00 pm*

The Aging Mastery Program (AMP) classes will explore: ®

• Healthy Relationships • Healthy Eating and Hydration • Medication Management • Fall Prevention • Community Engagement

• Navigating Longer Lives • Exercise and You • Sleep

• Financial Fitness • Advance Planning

A comprehensive approach to aging well. The program combines classes with expert speakers, group discussion and goal setting to help you gain new skills to make small meaningful changes in your life. Registration is payable in advance for all 10 weeks of the program. Limited spots available: Sign up now! Fee: $89/person if registered and paid by Tues., Feb. 1. After Feb. 1, fee is $99 Registration and Fee (payable in advance) by Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022 (No refunds after Tues., Feb. 1, 2022 ) Location: Offered in-person at The Katie PCOA Healthy Aging Center, 600 S Country Club

Join the adventure!

*Event subject to change due to health precautions. See page 33 for details.

For more information and to REGISTER, call Pima Council on Aging, 520-305-3409

Page 16 | February 2022, Never Too Late

Pima Council on Aging

Healthy Living

Small steps. Positive changes. Healthier living. At least 91% of older adults have at least one chronic condition and 77% have two or more. Diabetes affects 23% of older adults, and 1 in 3 older adults fall every year in the U.S. Most falls can be prevented.

Healthy Living with Ongoing Health Conditions offered in-person

*Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, March 3, 10 Thursdays from 10:00 – 12:30 pm

Healthy Living with Ongoing Health Conditions , also named the Chronic Disease Self- Management Program (CDSMP), was developed for people with ongoing health conditions - those who want to restore the feeling that they are living “with” a condition rather than letting “it” control them. Participants and their caregiver/support person learn practical skills for managing their chronic health problems such as tools to communicate effectively with family, friends, and health professionals, problem solving and relaxation techniques which result in improved health status and proper utilization of the health care system.

600 S. Country Club Rd. What: A six-week program for 2.5 hours once a week Registered participants receive a copy of the Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions . Contribution: $30 per couple (covers your book and supplies)

EnhanceFitness®

Community-based health promotion programs help individuals gain self-confidence in controlling symptoms; manage the progression of long-term and chronic, age-related conditions; and lead an active and productive life that most strive for.

Our current schedule for EnhanceFitness® classes (1 hour class) is: • Mon/Wed/Fri: 9:00 am in-person at the Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center, 600 S. Country Club Rd.* • Mon/Wed/Fri: 10:30 am in-person at the Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center, 600 S. Country Club Rd.* • Mon/Wed/Fri: 10:30 am offered remotely via Zoom • Tues 10:30 am/Thurs 1pm/Fri 11am one hour class in person at Tucson Estates* Pre-registration is required through Eventbrite (located on the PCOA homepage, https://pcoa.org/ways-we-help/enhancefitness.html/ ). For assistance, call us at (520) 305-3410. The contribution fee is $36/month per participant. Masks are required for all participants and class size is limited to enable social distancing. *Events subject to change due to health precautions. See page 33 for details.

Call (520) 305-3410 for more information.

*Event subject to change due to health precautions. See page 33 for details.

Learn Practical Skills • Gain Self-confidence • Manage Fall Risks • Positive Changes & Healthier Living

February 2022, Never Too Late | Page 17

Pima Council on Aging

Healthy Living

Happy Heart Health Month!

A Matter of Balance offered in-person

By Marty Twichell , EnhanceFitness Program Coordinator, PCOA’s Healthy Living Department, ACE certified Senior Exercise Specialist and Group Fitness Instructor In the fitness world, February has traditionally been a great month to speak to heart health. In 1968, Dr. Kenneth Cooper’s book “Aerobics” was published and changed the fitness industry dramatically. His focus on the heart muscle being the most important muscle to be exercising, and also on fitness testing to monitor cardiovascular fitness (endurance) improvement was a new way of thinking about exercise. When Jackie Sorenson read his book and tested herself, she realized that practicing and teaching her dance classes accomplished a similar result to running and she started communicating with him. He encouraged her to design dance exercise classes for women to improve their heart health and overall fitness. He thought women would like dancing way more than running. Their collaboration resulted in the 70s and 80s popularity of aerobic dance classes and in more awareness of heart health. Step aerobics was added in the 80’s and men were welcomed to the classes in 1983. PCOA’s 60+ exercise program “EnhanceFitness” has a 20-minute cardiovascular portion that works the heart muscle with big body movements, some dance moves and low impact calisthenics. The theme of cardiovascular exercise is always heart health! You might consider adding some cardio exercise to your day the whole month of February. Walking, dancing, climbing stairs, running, exercise classes… anything that gets your heart rate up counts. Aim to do it for 20 minutes every day. Avoid pushing yourself too hard and drink plenty of water. Remember the goal is to feel better after you are done. If you feel exhausted or in pain, or if you cannot do the activity for 20 minutes, you need to ease up and maintain a comfortable intensity. You can usually see improvement in your heart health by taking your resting pulse rate and watching it get lower over just a few weeks. Since your focus is on your heart health, you could add relaxing meditation to your day also. Just a few minutes where you sit quietly and focus on your breath can be enough to help with stress levels. Just make sure you celebrate Valentine’s day with a little love directed at your heart and be a nice Valentine to yourself!

Feb. 22, 24, March 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17* Tuesdays & Thursdays 1:30 – 3:30 pm The Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center 600 S. Country Club Rd.

Contribution Fee: $30.00 (covers your book and supplies) A Matter of Balance is being offered remotely and all you need to participate is a computer, laptop or tablet with a video camera, microphone and speakers. Many older adults experience a fear of falling. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater. 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 of 8-15 participants led by a trained facilitator.

What do participants learn?

Who should attend?

For more information and to register or if you are interested in a remote class, contact Jennie at 520-305-3410. • Recognize fall hazards • Make changes to reduce fall risk at home • Exercise to increase strength and balance The program enables participants to achieve significant goals. They gain confidence by learning to: • Overcome the fear of falling and learn to view falls as controllable • Set goals for increasing activity

The program is designed to benefit older adults who:

• Are concerned about falls • Have sustained falls in the past • Restrict activities because of concerns about falling • Are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength • Are age 60 or older, community-dwelling and able to problem solve

*Events subject to change due to health precautions. See page 33 for details.

Page 18 | February 2022, Never Too Late

Pima Council on Aging

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