Publication of Pima Council on Aging, Helping Pima County Age Well Since 1967
PUBLICATION OF PIMA COUNCIL ON AGING, HELPING PIMA COUNTY AGE WELL SINCE 1967 Never Too Late ISSUE 6 || NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2026
This is what Aging with Dignity looks like
INSIDE Honoring Marian Lupu’s Legacy p. 4 PCOA Brand Refresh p. 9 Recognizing Scams p. 10 Memory Cafés p. 11 Medicare Updates p. 18 Nunca Es Demasiado Tarde p. 22
AGING WITH DIGNITY IS A HUMAN RIGHT VISIT US AT pcoa.org
INSIDE
PCOA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Honoring Marian Lupu’s Legacy in Our Community . . . ..... 4 Musings of an Old Man . . . . . ...... 5 PCOA in the community . . . . ...... 6 Prepare Your Home for Cooler Weather and Holidays . . . . . ....... 8 PCOA Brand Refresh . . . . . . ....... 9 Recognizing Scams . . . . . . ...... 10 Dementia Support . . . . . . ....... 11 Caregiver Support . . . . . . ....... 14 Medicare . . . . . . . . . . ........... 18 EnhanceFitness® Program . . . ... 19 Neighbors Care Alliance . . . . .... 20 El Envejecimiento en Nuestra Comunidad . . . . . ...... 22
Paula Chronister, Chair Ava S. Butler, Vice Chair
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 2026. Editor Debbie Rich, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5043 drich@pcoa.org Graphic Designer Rebecca Manchester rmanchester@pcoa.org Advertising Jan Slonaker, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5076 jslonaker@pcoa.org Editorial and Advertising Deadline for Next Bi-Monthly Issue NOVEMBER 23, 2026 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 endorse- ments of products, services, or individuals.
Christina Noz, Esq., Secretary Silvia Amparano, Treasurer Piper Frithsen, RN Kristin Norstad C. Mary Okoye, Esq.
Estella Searcy Denise Taylor R. Wayne Wood, MD
ADVERTISE WITH US
Tucson and Pima County businesses, are you looking for a way to reach the 60+ market? Advertise with us and reach over 7,500 readers! Never Too Late is distributed at no cost in local grocery stores, libraries, community centers, and other venues frequented by older adults and caregivers along with a digital edition that receives over 1,200 views monthly. Contact Jan Slonaker at jslonaker@pcoa.org or (520) 790-7573 ext. 5076 for more information.
Read Never Too Late online at nevertoolate.pcoa.org
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Pima Council on Aging
AGING IN OUR COMMUNITY A Message from Our President & CEO, Robert Ojeda, PhD
What if I asked you this question: what would our community look like in 2036 if all older adults were thriving? Take a minute with that. Picture your street, your neighbors, your own life ten years from now. Over the past several months, I have
adults are not only served by their community; they lead it. And in that picture, we have found the root cause of poverty among older adults and solved it, not through one agency or one program, but together, through collective impact. It is a powerful picture. Then one participant said something I have not been able to set down: hope does not solve problems. That statement has stayed with me because it is true. Hope matters. It is where every change begins. But hope that stays a feeling changes nothing for the woman down the street skipping meals to pay her electric bill. Hope becomes useful when it becomes a plan, and a plan becomes real when people show up to carry it out. We have seen what that looks like. This year, more than 50 older adults gathered to learn their voting rights through Know Your Rights, a partnership with AARP
asked this question across Pima County. I asked it at our Elder
Robert Ojeda, PhD
Alliance meeting, where more than 80 organizations come together on behalf of older adults. I asked it of our own staff at our all-staff retreat. The answers have been energizing. People describe different things, but their visions intersect. Together they paint a picture of a Pima County where older adults have every resource they need to age with dignity. No one chooses between rent and medicine. Getting to the doctor, the grocery store, or the polls is simple. Older
asks each of us to decide what we will do, not just what we wish for. The answers will not come from PCOA alone. They will come from you. So I am asking you directly. How do we, as a community, turn hope into action? What would you do first? What is already working in your neighborhood that we should build on? What stands in the way? Please let us know. Share your vision for an age-friendly Pima County, where all older adults age with dignity, with Debbie Sisco Rich, Chief Development Officer, at drich@pcoa.org. Ten years is not very long. The Pima County we imagine in 2036 will be built by the choices we make now.
and the League of Women Voters. That is hope with its sleeves rolled up. The harder work is making that the rule rather than the exception. It asks organizations to stop working side by side and start working together around shared goals. It asks older adults to take their seats at the table, not as people to be helped, but as leaders who know best what their community needs. And it
Let’s make them together. With respect and gratitude,
Robert Ojeda, PhD President & Chief Executive Officer Pima Council on Aging
November & December 2026, Never Too Late | Page 3
Pima Council on Aging
IN GRATITUDE
Marian Lupu founded Pima Council on Aging in 1967 and led it for forty years. When older adults in this county needed something, she did not wait to be asked. On Wednesday, October 21, at our Powerful Voices of Older Adults breakfast, PCOA presented the first Marian Lupu Legacy Awards to two women who work the same way. Honoring Marian Lupu’s Legacy in Our Community
Meghan McCaffery has worked at PCOA in our Rights and Benefits department for almost five years. She is dedicated to serving older adults in her role, providing advocacy, assistance, resources and guidance with a wide range of issues and topics. In late August, at the Tucson Electric Power (TEP) In Person Agency Partner Summit (IPAPS), Meghan was honored with a New Frontiers award. This award recognizes Community Partners who expand access and serve new or underserved communities. She was given this award for her advocacy, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) reapplication support, and helping older adults find a clear path to assistance. This was TEP’s first time giving awards to Community Partners at their annual IPAPS event. Meghan feels honored to be recognized by TEP for her work with older adults. ◆ Meghan McCaffery Awarded TEP Recognition for Service
L’Don Sawyer received the Professional Legacy Award. For more than 25 years, at TMC for Seniors, St. Luke’s Home, Catholic Community Services, and Mobile Meals of Southern Arizona, she has built programs shaped by what older adults say they want. She worked alongside Marian and taught this com- munity that respect begins with the words we use.
Algurie Wilson received the Volunteer Legacy Award. President of the
Coalition for African American Health and Wellness, she brings healthy aging, advance directives, and dementia education to health fairs, churches, and widows’ groups, with deep roots in Tucson’s African American community. She was one of Pima County’s first Dementia Friends Champions. Neither one waits to be asked. Congratulations, L’Don and Algurie. ◆
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Pima Council on Aging
Musings of an Old Man Submitted by Bart Wilburn GUEST EDITORIAL
would answer: “yep,” and change the subject. Being regarded as irrelevant and being irrelevant, however, are not the same things. Being irrelevant is being a geezer. Geezers are ignored–sidelined. Maybe sometimes it seems the best thing we can do is be there and listen. I don’t like that answer. We still pay attention and want to be engaged; we have stories to tell. I remember from not long ago I gave my boyhood rifle to my grandson. I was struck by how sincere he was in appreciating my giving him something that meant so much to me in the years since I was his age. I was relevant to him, and because I was relevant to him, I was relevant to my daughter. I talked about coping with the adversities of being old. There is, however, an upside to being old. The upside derives from being curious, optimistic, and adventurous. The upside is that when we are old, we have time. We have time to be creative, time to explore and discover, time to dig deeper into things we may not have thought about in years. We have time to create something new, maybe we succeed, maybe we don’t, but if we are resilient and persevere, we continue to grow, be relevant, and rekindle our sparkle. Everyone encourages the notion of being authentic, but most of us only have a vague idea of what it means. Becoming authentic is a subject for another day, but to be authentic means being resolute, resilient, and persevering in the face of adversity. I suggest being authentic and also being optimistic and adventurous is the best way forward. ◆
my wife, Laura, and I bought my first Harley. What a joy! Soon thereafter Laura’s Harley came; she objected to looking at the back of my head. We rode all over the country not thinking about getting old and yet I remember a few times marveling about the sensuous joy of pulling out onto the road with the bars in hand and the engine throbbing beneath me and thinking “Hey, I’m sixty-something.” That might have been a hint of thinking about getting old. Ten years went by and we were at least aware of getting older. We put our toys away thinking it is better to get off than fall off, but we weren’t content to be content and bought an Airstream. That was getting old. I’m 85 and she’s 78, now we ARE old. How is it different? We still travel in our Airstream, sometimes attending rally’s, sometimes just us. But what is daily life now? What can I say here that is of any use to others coping with being old? Let me say now that this is just me talking from our experience. Yes, we move slower, tire more quickly, maybe not as quick, and yes, Laura is on me to walk faster with my head up, do my exercises, and don’t forget your Tai Chi. There is no question that it is good to have someone in your life, to care for a puppy that loves you, and to remember simple things like what we had for dinner last night. But the most worrisome thing about being old comes from realizing that we are a generation older than most people. That worrisome thing is the anxiety of being ‘sidelined,’ of not being relevant. We are relevant among our peers, but not aways to those much younger than us. I can remember times when I offered a pearl of wisdom to my kids and they
I stay in touch with some former classmates from grad school and we have Zoom meetings almost every week. We are in our eighties, have known each other for nearly 60 years, and have talked about many things, sometimes physics, sometimes politics, anything that comes to mind. We talked about getting old, the adversities we have faced, and wondered about how people just entering the age of being old handle getting old. Are they anxious about it? Most people don’t think about it when they are young, but there comes a time when they do. We are old and have gone through getting old, it’s not the same thing. I think the short answer to how anyone handles getting old comes down to how they go about knowing themselves; it’s about authenticity. I have often thought that the most trying time is going from 79 to 81. When we are 79, we are wisened seniors, but when we are 81 we are in our eighties, that’s just called old. Let me talk a little about the difference between being old and getting old. I was 64 and retired, had published a few papers, and otherwise restless when
November & December 2026, Never Too Late | Page 5
Pima Council on Aging
Expanded Walk-in Hours and Access to Resources Around Pima County PCOA IN THE COMMUNITY
Walk-In Hours for Dementia Support
Walk-in Hours Thursdays 9:00 am–12:00 pm Services offered rotate weekly: First Thursday Community Resources Community Resource Specialists will listen to your personal situation and help identify resources to meet your specific needs.
Come meet with a Community Health Worker or Certified Options Counselor for a brief non-diagnostic cognitive screening or information on dementia, caregiving, and resources. There is no cost for our services. Walk-in hours for dementia support, resources, and guidance will be available at the following locations: AARP Tucson Info Center Third Monday of each month 9:30 am–12:30 pm 6700 N. Oracle Rd. Suite 331 Tucson, AZ 85704 Green Valley Council First Wednesday of each month 9:30 am–12:30 pm 555 N La Cañada Dr., Suite 117 Green Valley, AZ 85614 250 E. Continental Rd. Green Valley, AZ 85614 Sahuarita Food Bank & Community Resource Center Fourth Tuesday each month 9:00 am–1:00 pm 17750 S. La Cañada Dr. Sahuarita, AZ 85629 Green Valley Food Bank Third Tuesday each month 9:00 am–1:00 pm
Second Thursday Rights & Benefits
Help navigating community and financial assistance resources. Third Thursday Dementia Support Providing compassionate support, resources, and guidance for those navigating dementia and Alzheimer’s, and those who care for them. Fourth Thursday Caregiver Support Information and assistance for anyone caring for a loved one living with them or living in their own home. Fifth Thursday Contact PCOA for details.
Ward 2 Office In October, Pima Council on Aging returned to the eastside with office hours two days a week at the City of Tucson Ward 2 office located at 7820 East Broadway Boulevard. Services offered include accessing community resources, information on rights and benefits, along with dementia and caregiver support. The schedule is as follows for appointments on Tuesdays and walk-in hours on Thursdays. Appointments Tuesdays from 1:00–4:00 pm Schedule an appointment with any department or a Medicare specialist. Interested in talking with PCOA staff on the east side? Call (520) 790-7262 to get started.
Caregiver Support Group First Monday each month 1:00–2:30 pm
Caring for a family member, neighbor, or friend can be both rewarding and challenging. Support groups help reduce stress, build community, and support. RSVPs required, please call (520) 305-3405 or email tclay@pcoa.org to reserve a space.
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Pima Council on Aging
“What will you have, mija?” I turn to see who’s greeting me. Across the whole parking lot, of what was once an elementary school, you can hear Mexican corridos, the comal hissing, the occasional whistle, and the metal frames of the tents. The tables and their tablecloths cover the pavement where white lines once marked spaces for cars. Chairs and tables one-by-one build the community food stalls. Colorful little flags dance happily in the wind. Every small piece of this place comes together through collaboration and sharing the work- load. Bit by bit, it takes the shape of what the experts are now calling “a third space,” and what the barrio knows as “Nuestro Tianguis.” I look around. There is little evidence left of what was once a parking lot. This ritual repeats every weekend, carrying on this long tradition for over 500 years. Even when people move or visit other corners, the tradition seems to follow. Tianguis is a Náhuatl word meaning “open-air market.” Tianguis By Dora Martinez, Advocacy Director
food vendors, secondhand goods, arts, crafts, and services, by the local people and for the local people. In today’s environment, we understand the importance of this space for our community members, regardless of income level or nationality. Nuestro tianguis is home to traditional cooks who, every weekend, share their family recipes passed down from comal to comal. These are the hands that not only inspire the next generation of cooks, but also feed our neighborhoods. The tianguis is a great example of how access to space, cultural practices, and economic opportunity are all compo- nents of a healthy, vibrant community. We know that • environmental quality • community design • sociocultural cohesion • community safety
are important indicators of health, just as much as • quality food
• access to healthcare • green infrastructure
The tianguis also sustains the keepers of our culture and the bearers of wisdom in our community. These are the elders, artisans, land defenders, cooks, and keepers of traditional knowledge in our communities. Every weekend they bring their textiles, antiques, little plants, and everything else. These masters of tradition connect us to our histories and to place. Every weekend, the vendors remind us that, despite making up less than 7% of the world’s population, our Indigenous peoples around the world protect and are responsible for more than 80% of the world’s remaining biodiversity, giving a second (and third, and fourth) chance to clothing and everyday items that our fast-consuming society has thrown away. ◆
For centuries, Indigenous peoples of this continent have organized themselves into tianguis as a viable alternative for a more equitable commerce rooted in trade, culture and sustainability. These open-air markets are made up of a series of
November & December 2026, Never Too Late | Page 7
Pima Council on Aging
PREPARING FOR WINTER
Small energy-saving steps can add up to meaningful savings over time, which can be especially important to seniors who may be on fixed incomes. As Tucson’s temperatures cool, fall is the ideal time to tackle simple home tasks and refresh energy-saving habits that can help keep your home cozy, safe and affordable throughout the season and the holidays. Checking Home for Energy Efficiency Before winter settles in, give your home a quick energy checkup to help keep the warmth in and the cold out. Windows and doors: One of the easiest ways to improve comfort during cooler weather is to look for drafts around Prepare Your Home for Cooler Weather and Holidays Submitted by Sarah Tully Lev, Senior Corporate Communications Specialist, Tucson Electric Power
allowing warm air to escape and outdoor air to enter. Taking a few minutes to inspect and replace worn seals may help your heating and cooling system work more efficiently while keeping indoor temperatures more comfortable. Air filters: Another simple task is changing your HVAC filter. Dirty filters can restrict airflow and force your system to work harder than necessary. Replacing the filter regularly can help your equipment operate more efficiently and may improve indoor air quality. If you haven’t had your heating system inspected recently, fall is a great time to schedule a routine checkup before cooler temperatures arrive. Natural light: Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to warm your home naturally with sunlight. Close them at night to retain heat. Reverse your ceiling fans: Change the direction of your ceiling fans so that they rotate clockwise. This pushes warm air down, helping to distribute heat more evenly. Don’t forget to turn them off when no one is home. While
install a programmable or smart thermostat. Find deals on smart thermostats on the TEP Marketplace (tep.com/marketplace). Consider one for your holiday gift list. Get Ready for Thanksgiving and Holiday Cooking While cooking and meal get-togethers can increase energy use, a little planning can help keep things efficient. Timing Cooking: Before a holiday gathering, consider organizing your menu so multiple dishes can be cooked at the same time. Making full use of the oven allows you to prepare meals more efficiently than cooking items one at a time. Similarly, the microwave can be a great option for reheating or preparing smaller dishes because it often uses less energy than a conventional oven. Warming Food: When using the stovetop, keep lids on pots whenever possible. Lids help food heat faster and retain heat, reducing cooking time and energy use. Glass and ceramic bakeware can also retain heat well, allowing food to cook effectively while maximizing the warmth already being produced by the oven. Comfortable Rooms: During larger holiday gatherings, the extra warmth from guests and cooking appliances may make your home feel warmer than usual. You may be able to lower your thermostat slightly and still remain comfortable. It’s a simple adjustment that can help reduce energy use while your home is naturally being warmed by holiday activity. Use Appliances Wisely: After the meal, allow leftovers to cool before placing them in the refrigerator.
doors and windows. Over time, weather-stripping can wear out,
ceiling fans make you feel more comfortable, they don’t change a room’s temperature. Thermostat: Energy standards suggest setting your thermo- stat to 68 degrees for optimal efficiency. If you bundle up at night, you might reduce the temperature in the evening hours. To help keep track of the temperature,
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Pima Council on Aging
BRAND REFRESH
A New Look, and the Promise Behind It By Debbie Sisco Rich, Chief Development Officer
Putting very hot food directly into the refrigerator can make the appliance work harder to maintain its temperature. And when cleanup begins, use the dishwasher, which often uses less hot water than hand washing. Decorate Safely and Stress Less Holiday decorations can bring warmth and joy to a home, but safety should always come first. Check the cords: Before plugging in seasonal lights or decorations, inspect cords carefully. Frayed, cracked or damaged cords should be replaced. Extension cords and power strips should be used according to manufacturer recommendations, and outlets should never be overloaded. Electrical safety becomes especially important during the holidays when more devices and decorations may be connected throughout the home. Lighting for Less: LED holiday lights can be an excellent choice because they use less electricity and can last longer than traditional bulbs. Turn it Off: Consider using timers to automatically turn lights off at bedtime or during daylight hours. Timers provide convenience while helping reduce unnecessary energy use. Just as important, remember that holiday decorating doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes a favorite wreath, a few traditional decorations or a simple display can create a festive atmosphere without adding stress. The holidays should be an opportunity for enjoyment, not a source of pressure or exhaustion. ◆
If you have visited a neighborhood center, met us at a community event, or read these pages for years, you may notice something new. PCOA has a fresh look, and every part of it was chosen
That is our promise. Life in later years can be complicated, and finding support often is too. We won’t pretend otherwise. What we can promise is that you will not need to sort it out alone. We will listen to your story, look at the whole picture, tell you honestly what we can and cannot do, and stay with you until you know your next step. You don’t have to have it all figured out to reach out. One more thing worth knowing: PCOA is an independent nonprofit, not a county office. We work alongside about 80 organizations, plus volunteers and neighbors like you, so that every older adult in Pima County has a way forward. The logo is new. The promise is one we intend to keep, one neighbor at a time. We’re going to figure this out together. ◆
to say something we believe: everyone deserves to grow older with dignity. Our logo begins with a sunrise cresting the horizon. That light creates a winding path to an open hand representing the support and resources we’re known for. You may also find our materials easier to read. That is on purpose. If we say every older adult matters, our business cards, flyers, and publications should be easy to read. Still, a logo means little on its own. What matters is what happens when you reach out. One neighbor put it this way: “I just needed someone to tell me there was a path forward. I didn’t need them to solve everything. I needed to know someone was there.”
Aging with Dignity is a Human Right
November & December 2026, Never Too Late | Page 9
Pima Council on Aging
RECOGNIZING SCAMS
Protecting Your Golden Years Spotting Fraud and Scam Red Flags Submitted by Tiffany Holguin, Vice President; Consumer Banking Market Leader, Bank of America
Remember, scammers are master manipulators, and if this happens to you, you are not alone. This is why Bank of America (BofA) has been working with community groups, including senior citizen organi- zations, to educate around common and new scams. The goal is to arm everyone with an eye out for red flags to avoid falling prey to fraudsters and protect your hard-earned money. Scams targeting people over 60 account for $28.3 billion in annual losses. To keep your money safe, here are some red flags to watch out for: • Impersonation Scams: Criminals use the latest technology to impersonate a loved one’s voice, calling to say they are in danger and need money immediately. • Tech Support Scams: Scammers pose as tech support claiming your computer has a virus to gain remote access to your device, convincing you to give them confidential passwords. • Cash Withdrawal Scams: Imposters may even pose as your bank or other authority, instructing you to withdraw cash and deposit it into a “new” account to protect it from fraud–and not to tell anyone who asks. • Romance Scams: Strangers build your trust online, eventually asking for money for fake emergencies or even plane tickets. Common threads of these scams include coming out of the blue; a sense of urgency and secrecy; and unusual
payment methods like gift cards and wire transfers. You can protect yourself by remembering a few simple rules. First, pause and don’t rush. Second, independently verify their information. Also, share the matter with trusted friends and family, also consider creating a family “safe word” that only you and your loved ones know to combat impersonation scams Trust your instincts. If a situation seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you suspect you’ve been targeted, pause but also act quickly by contacting your bank and creditors to let them know your identity may be compromised. Also, consider reporting the incident to local law enforcement.
Scams have gotten very sophisticated over the years, and the perpetrators are constantly inventing new ways to trick people. Sadly, older adults are frequent targets. Scams targeting people over 60 account for $28.3 billion in annual losses. Shockingly, $20.5 billion of that is likely never reported to the authorities, often because victims feel embarrassed.
To learn more about common scams and ways to protect yourself and your finances, check out BofA’s webpage Scam Prevention: Trending Scams and Their Red Flags at web.bankofamerica.com/en/ security/scam-prevention BofA also hosts free “Scaminars” for the public in Southern Arizona and all over. ◆
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Pima Council on Aging
Why a Dementia Diagnosis Can Be a Step Forward By David Torrez, PCOA Options Counselor DEMENTIA SUPPORT
groups, respite services, community programs, and disease-specific resources. It may also provide access to clinical trials, many designed for the earliest stages of cognitive impairment. These connections help
A dementia diagnosis can feel frightening, but having clear answers often creates more options, not fewer. When changes in memory, thinking, judgment, or daily functioning are evaluated early, the person and family gain valuable time to understand what is happening and decide what comes next. A thorough evaluation may identify medical conditions that can cause or worsen cognitive symptoms, including medication side effects, depression, sleep disorders, infections, thyroid problems, or vitamin deficiencies. When dementia is present, identifying its likely type and stage can help the healthcare team recommend appropriate treatment, manage related symptoms, and address other health conditions. Some treatments are most useful or available only during earlier stages of certain diseases. Early diagnosis also protects the person’s voice. While the individual can still clearly express preferences and participate in decisions, the family can discuss future care, living arrangements, finances, advance directives/powers of attorney, and end-of-life wishes. Planning ahead does not mean giving up hope. It means preserving choice, reducing uncertainty, and helping ensure future decisions reflect the person’s values. A diagnosis can connect families with education, care consultation, support
families understand what to expect and remind them that they do not have to manage the journey alone.
of life. Families need information in manageable amounts, written next steps, and time to ask questions. Following up is essential. A diagnosis should begin an ongoing care process and not end with a referral or a handout. Regular check-ins allow professionals to monitor changes, revisit safety, connect families with timely services, and recognize caregiver stress before a crisis. Acting early gives people living with dementia greater dignity and control while helping families prepare, adapt, and care with more confidence. For those first steps in seeking guidance, support, and services, PCOA offers free memory screenings and dementia care consultations by appointment or during walk-in hours: Mondays, 9:00 am–12:00 pm, and Thursdays, 1:00–4:00 pm. ◆ FOR MORE INFORMATION call the Resource Line at (520) 790-7262 or visit pcoa.org/ways-we-help/ dementia-capable-southern-arizona
Safety planning is another important benefit. Concerns involving driving, medication management, falls, wandering, firearms, cooking, frauds/scams, or living alone can be addressed gradually before an emergency forces rushed decisions. Minor changes made early are often less disruptive and easier for everyone to accept. Proactive Practice: Turning Diagnosis into Support Being proactive begins with noticing concerns and responding promptly before a crisis. Clinicians and service professionals should routinely ask about changes in memory and daily functioning, especially when individuals, families, or care partners report changes or known risk factors are present. Brief validated cognitive assessments can help determine whether a more complete evaluation is needed. Diagnosis conversations should be honest, transparent, sensitive, empathic, compassionate, and centered on what becomes possible: treatment, planning, support, safety, and continued quality
November & December 2026, Never Too Late | Page 11
Pima Council on Aging
DEMENTIA SUPPORT
Dementia Support in the Community A Memory Café is a welcoming social gathering for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. It provides a safe, supportive space to enjoy activities and connect with others in a relaxed environment. Cafés help promote social connectedness and foster community for those affected by memory loss. Join our community today! Please visit bit.ly/memory-cafes for café-specific information or to register.
Find a
Near you MEMORY CAFÉ
AARP Memory Café Fridays, November 20 & December 18 10:00—11:30 am AARP Tucson Office 6700 N. Oracle Rd., Suite 331 Tucson, AZ 85704 Alzheimer’s Association Memory Café Wednesdays, November 11 & December 9 3:00–4:00 pm Beyond Bread 421 W. Ina Rd. Tucson, AZ 85704 Café at the Murphy-Wilmot Library Monday, November 23 10:30-11:30 am Murphy-Wilmot Library 530 N. Wilmot Rd. Tucson, AZ 85710 Registration not required. Contact Nicole Thomas at (520) 790-7573 ext. 1739 or nthomas@pcoa.org Memory Café at The Katie Wednesdays, November 25 & December 9 (No cafés November 11 or December 23 due to holidays) 10:00–11:00 am Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center (PCOA) 600 S. Country Club Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716
Esperanza Memory Café Thursdays, November 12 & December 10 2:00–3:00 pm United Methodist Church Green Valley
CPLC Casa de Encanto 250 N. Silverbell Rd. Tucson, AZ 85745
Registration requested. Favor de confirmar su asistencia. Contact/ contaco Mayra Garcia at (520) 310-4516. Casa del Pueblo Memory Café Thursdays, November 5 & December 3 jueves, 5 de noviembre &
300 W. Esperanza Blvd. Green Valley, AZ 85614 Mt. Calvary Memory Café Wednesdays, November 4 & 18, and December 2 & 16 10:30–11:30 am Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church 210 E. Lester St. Tucson, Az. 85705 Contact Chalonda Jones-Thomas, Medical Ministry Leader at mtcalvarymedicalministry@gmail.com Posada Life Memory Café Fridays, November 20 & December 18 1:00–2:00 pm La Posada Community Center 780 S. Park Centre Ave. Green Valley, AZ 85614 BILINGUAL/BILINGÜE Casa de Encanto Memory Café Mondays, November 9 & December 14 lunes, 9 de noviembre &
3 de diciembre 10:00-11:00 am CPLC Casa del Pueblo 4975 S. Liberty Ave. Tuscon, AZ 85706
Registration requested. Favor de confirmar su asistencia. Contact/ contaco Amee Gonzalez at (520) 310-2915. Memory Café with YWCA Thursdays, November 19 & December 17 jueves, 19 de noviembre & 17 de diciembre 10:00-11:00 am House of Neighborly Services Registration requested. Favor de confirmar su asistencia. Contact/ contaco Maria Ornelas at (520) 596-0115. 525 N. Bonita Ave. Tucson, AZ 85745
14 de diciembre 10:00-11:00 am
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Pima Council on Aging
Upcoming Presentations Dementia 101 Learn more about what dementia is and how it impacts individuals, families, and communities. Understand common signs of dementia and how to approach memory concerns. For all community members 18+. VIRTUAL Thursday, November 19 2:00–3:30 pm Memory Loss: Progressions, Behaviors, and Interventions Part 1 Dive into the progression of dementia, the brain changes that occur, and planning. For family members and other caregivers. VIRTUAL Thursday, December 3 2:00–3:30 pm Memory Loss: Progressions, Behaviors, and Interventions Part 2 Dig deeper into caregiver strategies, common challenges, and approaches to caring for someone with dementia. For family members and caregivers. VIRTUAL Thursday, December 10 2:00–3:30 pm IDEA! Strategy A 3-step strategy to help you figure out why a behavior is happening and how to deal with it. For family members and caregivers. VIRTUAL Thursday, December 17 2:00–3:30 pm End of Life Care Planning When Living with a Dementia Diagnosis Understand end of life care decisions, decision-making authority, and advance directives, including special considerations with dementia.
Meal and Food Distribution Sites Training Learn potential signs of dementia and get tips and resources if you encounter individuals who may be experiencing cognitive decline. For staff & volunteers at organizations that provide meals and food resources for community members. VIRTUAL Friday, November 6 1:00–2:00 pm VIRTUAL Thursday, November 19 9:00–10:00 am Friday, November 20 3:00–4:00 pm Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center (PCOA) 600 S. Country Club Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716
Tuesday, November 17 2:00–3:00 pm Green Valley Recreation, East Hall 7 Abrego Dr. Green Valley, AZ 85614 Dementia and the IDD Population Learn about dementia, unique issues for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, and information on navigating the journey. For family members and professionals working with the IDD population. Tuesday, November 10 3:00–4:30 pm Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center (PCOA) 600 S. Country Club Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716 VIRTUAL Thursday, November 12 3:00–4:30 pm Dementia and Hearing Loss Learn about the relationship between dementia and hearing loss, special considerations for working with people with hearing loss, and resources available for individuals who may be experiencing cognitive decline. VIRTUAL Wednesday, November 4 3:00–4:00 pm Thursday, November 5 3:00–4:00 pm Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center (PCOA) 600 S. Country Club Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716
Register online at bit.ly/DCSAevents or
by scanning the QR code.
FOR MORE INFORMATION on the presentations, please contact Nicole Thomas at nthomas@pcoa.org or (520) 790-7573 ext. 1739.
Virtual presentations can be joined from anywhere in the world, so they are a great option for including out-of-town family and friends!
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Pima Council on Aging
CAREGIVING When Families Disagree About Caring for an Older Loved One Submitted by Catherine Tornbom, Chair, Board of Directors, of the Center for Community Mediation and Facilitation (CCMF) Few conversations are harder than the ones families have about how to care for an aging parent or relative. Siblings who agreed on almost everything growing up can suddenly find themselves at odds over whether Mom should still be driving, whether Dad needs more help at home, or who is carrying the greater share of caregiving.
When families reach these difficult moments, a few principles can help. Keep the older adult at the center. Whenever possible, the person whose life is being discussed should have a meaningful voice in the decisions. It can be easy for concerned family members to begin talking about an older adult rather than with them. Respecting their wishes, choices, and autonomy helps preserve dignity, even when others would make a different choice. Hold safety and independence together. Families often treat these as competing goals, with one person advocating for more protection and another for more freedom. Instead, ask: What are we worried might happen? What matters most to our loved one? What options could reduce the risk while preserving as much independence as possible? Talk about fairness. Caregiving responsibilities are rarely divided equally. Geography, work, finances, health, and family relationships all affect what each person can contribute. Love does not prevent resentment, especially when one person feels that the responsibility has fallen disproportionately on them. Naming the imbalance without blaming one another creates room for more honest problem solving. How families talk is just as important as what they decide. Slow the conversation down. Listen to understand rather than preparing your response. Before disagreeing, try reflecting back what you heard. Ask questions about the concerns underneath someone’s position. “Dad needs to stop driving” may actually mean, “I’m afraid he’ll get
hurt.” Understanding the concern creates more possibilities for solutions. It also helps to name what you share. Even families who strongly disagree usually want their loved one to be safe, respected, comfortable, and able to live with dignity. That common ground can shift the conversation from “Who is right?” to “How can we work on this together?” Sometimes families become too stuck to have these conversations on their own. A trained, neutral mediator does not decide who is right or tell a family what to do. Instead, mediation creates a respectful space where people can clarify what matters to them, hear one another more fully, and make their own decisions about a way forward. Caring for an older loved one asks a great deal of everyone involved. Curiosity, respect, and a willingness to listen can help families move through difficult decisions while preserving the relationships that matter most. ◆ Catherine Tornbom is Chair, Board of Directors, of the Center for Community Mediation and Facilitation (CCMF), which has served Pima County and Southern Arizona for over 40 years. CCMF provides mediation, facilitated dialogue, and training to help individuals, families, organizations, and communities navigate conflict constructively. She will present Elder Care Mediation: Supporting Families Through Difficult Conversations for PCOA’s Family Caregiver Support Group on November 5.
Disagreement does not necessarily mean something has gone wrong. More often, people who care deeply about one another are seeing the same situation through different eyes. Love and resentment can exist side by side in caregiving. One person may be worried about safety. Another may be trying to protect a parent’s independence. Someone else may be exhausted from providing most of the day-to-day care, or carrying feelings shaped by family relationships that go back many years.
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Pima Council on Aging
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS
NOVEMBER Tuesday, November 3 12:00–1:30 pm (Oro Valley) Impact of S. Arizona 15930 N. Oracle Rd. Activity Center Conference Room Wednesday, November 4 1:00–2:30 pm
Thursday, November 19 1:00–2:30 pm (East) Kirk-Bear Canyon Library 8959 E. Tanque Verde Rd. Small Meeting Room Monday, November 23 11:00 am–12:30 pm VIRTUAL Tuesday, November 24 9:00–10:30 am (Southwest) Tucson Estates 5900 W. Western Way Circle Recreation Center, Board Conference Room
Monday, December 14 1:00–2:30 pm (Green Valley) Friends Indeed 301 W. Camino Casa Verde, Room C Tuesday, December 15 10:00–11:30 am (North) AARP Arizona 6700 N. Oracle Rd. Suite 331 Classroom Wednesday, December 16 1:30–3:00 pm VIRTUAL Thursday, December 17 1:00–2:30 pm (East) Kirk-Bear Canyon Library 8959 E. Tanque Verde Rd. Small Meeting Room Monday, December 21 11:00 am–12:30 pm (Midtown) Eckstrom-Columbus Library 4350 E. 22 nd Street Tuesday, December 22 9:00–10:30 am (Southwest) Tucson Estates 5900 W. Western Way Circle Recreation Center, Board Conference Room FOR MORE INFORMATION on support groups or to RSVP for a support group listed here, please contact Support Group Facilitator, Tonetta Clay at tclay@pcoa.org or (520) 305-3405. RSVPs are required for all support groups.
(East) City Ward Office 7820 E. Broadway Blvd. Cholla Room Thursday, November 5 1:00–2:30 pm
VIRTUAL WORKSHOP Elder Care Mediation: Supporting Families Through Difficult Conversations Monday, November 9 1:00–2:30 pm (Green Valley) Friends Indeed 301 W. Camino Casa Verde, Room C Tuesday, November 10 10:30 am–12:00 pm (Marana) Nanini Library 7300 N. Shannon Rd. Monday, November 16 1:00–2:30 pm (Midtown) Eckstrom-Columbus Library 4350 E. 22 nd Street, Meeting Room Tuesday, November 17 10:00–11:30 am (North) AARP Arizona 6700 N. Oracle Rd. Suite 331 Classroom Wednesday, November 18 1:30–3:00 pm VIRTUAL Meeting on Zoom
DECEMBER Tuesday, December 1 12:00–1:30 pm (Oro Valley) Impact of S. Arizona 15930 N. Oracle Rd. Activity Center Conference Room Thursday, December 3 1:00–2:30 pm VIRTUAL Meeting on Zoom Monday, December 7 1:00–2:30 pm (East) City Ward Office 7820 E. Broadway Blvd., Cholla Room
Tuesday, December 8 10:30 am–12:00 pm (Marana) Nanini Library 7300 N. Shannon Rd.
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Pima Council on Aging
CAREGIVING Love and Perseverance A Family Caregiver’s Story Submitted by Beth Smith When Jorge Bejarano began to show signs of dementia in his mid-50s his wife Maria embarked on a journey entailing hard work and financial insecurity, but she was energized by love for her husband and a deep commitment to his well-being. She took it upon herself to learn about community, state, and federal resources that helped her get through the next ten years. Jorge and Maria met in her home town of Parker, Arizona. They were both 18 years old. She was a high school senior working part time in an ice cream shop, and he was a farm worker, one of 12 children. “We just clicked,” she recalls. “There was a good friendship, lots of talking, then we were boyfriend and girlfriend. He was very kind and respectful of me.” They dated for two years, then married in 1978. They raised four children together. Jorge worked long hours as a heavy equipment welder and manager at construction companies. “He was a great father and provider, he was very caring for his children and myself,” says Maria. “He always wanted to protect us and make sure that we had the necessities of life.” When she wasn’t needed full-time at home, Maria held various jobs in Parker, then in Tucson after the family moved there. She was involved with the creation of the Comienzo Sano (Healthy Start) and Head Start programs in Parker,
which are still active, and also worked as a teacher’s aide at several schools. She was eventually hired as an office worker at Soreo In-Home Support Services in Tucson, which proved to be a fortuitous connection. When he was 54, Jorge called from work one day and said he was not feeling well. He went home and said he could no longer drive or remember things. He also suffered from aphasia, so he could not explain his symptoms. His primary care physician had previously warned him of the effects of work stress and depression, but it took more than two years for the health care providers to settle on a diagnosis of dementia. During this time he was hospitalized, then placed in a locked care unit which he found very traumatic, then discharged to a nursing home. He lived there for three years, and was initially confined to his bed or a wheelchair. He then began to recover his mobility and some cognitive skills, although his dementia continued. He participated in veterans meetings at the home; though not a veteran himself, they welcomed him because he had three sons who had chosen careers in the military. Maria visited him three times a day, while working and maintaining their home. The nursing home eventually suggested that he move to a more independent unit, but Maria decided to bring Jorge home instead. “He was my everything. I kept an eye on him no matter what,” she says. “He always protected me until the end, and I wanted to do the same for him.” While still at the nursing home Jorge left the building undetected and walked
to a nearby Costco looking for Maria. After she brought him home he stayed put—he didn’t need to look for her anymore. She arranged the photos and mementoes in his room to remind him of his life story life and the good times, and he didn’t allow them to be moved. Included is a framed certificate from two UA College of Pharmacy Students who participated in a clinic at Devon Gables. Ther certificate states, “To Mr. Jorge Bejarano, a gentleman whose life story tells of honor, commitment and courage. You instilled those values in your children, who have gone on to serve our country, and now you’ve helped shape two of America’s future pharmacists. We can’t thank you enough.” Maria learned about community resources while working for Sorea and attending classes there, and her manager provided valuable advice and support throughout. Due to the delays in getting a proper diagnosis, Jorge did not qualify for Social Security Disability
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Pima Council on Aging
Income (SSDI) until two and a half years after he stopped working. Maria became his representative payee, and since their savings had evaporated she applied for him to receive AHCCCS benefits, then long-term care support through ALTCS. Although an office worker, she became a state-certified caregiver while at Soreo.
of the home through a financial power of attorney or a special court conservatorship. The spouse who owns the home can then decide its disposition after death. Maria petitioned the court with pro bono legal assistance. Jorge qualified for hospice services in 2024, then passed away at home on March 28, 2025, nearly 50 years after they first met. Maria acknowledges that being responsible for 24/7 care of a loved one at home is not for everyone. She was often exhausted, and Jorge could be difficult at times. “I tell people that if they’re considering this, to think very, very hard about what it requires,” she says. “But it gave me purpose, and I miss that part of it.” ◆
children were supportive but had their own families and work demands. She took the initiative to explore all available options, which involved many phone calls and conversations with health care providers. ALTCS Home and Community-Based Services provided part-time caregivers for Jorge when he moved back home, then Maria learned
“He was my everything. I kept an eye on him no matter what,” she says. “He always protected me until the end, and I wanted to do the same for him.”
Many people are easily overwhelmed by the bureaucratic requirements when processing applications for Social Security Disability, AHCCCS and ALTCS benefits, but Maria was undaunted. “When you’re used to having the husband in charge, you’re basically starting from scratch,” says Maria. The
she could be paid as well and took the ALTCS caregiver training program to qualify. She turned to the Pima Council on Aging legal clinic in 2022 to obtain legal advice about preparing a will and powers of attorney. The attorney pointed out that ALTCS allows the spouse of an ALTCS recipient to obtain full ownership
My grandpa is in the early stages of dementia... It’s a lot to manage with school and my other responsibilities, but I have to make sure he’s getting the care and medication he needs.
Connect to trusted caregiver resources at pcoa.org or call (520) 790-7262. Yes, you are, and we can help.
November & December 2026, Never Too Late | Page 17
Pima Council on Aging
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