Never Too Late Para información en Español ver páginas 20 - 22
September 2022 What’s News • Aging in Our Community • Dementia Capable SoAZ: Memory Care Support Series • Medicare & SMP • Rights & Benefits • Caregiving: New Workshops • Healthy Living: Classes Happening Now! • PCOA Puzzle • Ending Life Well • Neighbors Care Alliance • Visibility Matters • Advocacy • CareGiver Training Institute • PimaCare at Home
Healthy Aging & Falls Prevention
PUBLICATION OF PIMA COUNCIL ON AGING, HELPING PIMA COUNTY AGE WELL SINCE 1967
Independence. Vitality. Respect.
Inside • Aging in Our Community 3 • Dementia Capable Southern Arizona 4 • Medicare & SMP 5 - 6 • Rights & Benefits 7 • Community Workshops 8 • Caregiving 9 - 11 • Community Lunch Program 12 • Healthy Living 13 - 17 • PCOA Puzzle 18 - 19 • Nunca Es Demasiado Tarde 20 - 22
• Ending Life Well 23 • Visibility Matters 24 • Advocacy 25
• Senior Companion Program 26 • Neighbors Care Alliance 27 - 28 • Featured Artist 34 • CareGiver Training Institute, Healthcare Education by PCOA 35 • Introducing TheKatie.org & PimaCare at Home, In-Home Care by PCOA 36
PCOA Helpline: (520) 790-7262 Administration: (520) 790-0504 Donate: givepcoa.org E-mail: help@pcoa.org Website: pcoa.org Mail: 8467 E. Broadway Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85710 Never Too Late is published by Pima Council on Aging, the Area Agency on Aging, Region II. Material from Never Too Late may be reprinted when permission is given and attribution is used along with ©PCOA 2022. Editor Adina Wingate, (520) 790-0504 awingate@pcoa.org Editorial Assistant Jan Baker, (520) 790-0504 jbaker@pcoa.org Advertising Adina Wingate, (520) 790-0504 awingate@pcoa.org Design Consultant Lori Lieber, Lori Lieber Graphic Design lori@lorilieber.com
On the Cover: Detail from A View of My Garden, oil on canvas by Harrie Handler, The Drawing Studio. (Story, full image on inside back cover) Help from PCOA During the Pandemic Due to the prevalence of the coronavirus in our community, we encourage the public to access our services by phone or email whenever possible. Our building at 8467 E Broadway is open for those requiring in-person assistance. We encourage you to call and make an appointment to ensure the right staff are available to assist you. Our building at 600 S Country Club is not currently open to the public. Please call or visit our website frequently for updates, as availability is subject to change as the public health crisis evolves. The best way to access our services, including making an appointment for in-person assistance, is by calling our Helpline between 8:30 AM and 5 PM Monday through Friday at (520) 790-7262 or emailing help@pcoa.org.
Editorial and Advertising Deadline for Next Issue SEPTEMBER 2 2022
Please include a contact person name and phone number with all submitted material. All articles are subject to editing in accordance with technical and policy guidelines but will not be altered in content without permission of the author. Publication of submissions is not guaranteed. Ads are not to be considered as PCOA endorsements of products, services, or individuals.
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Read Never Too Late online at nevertoolate.pcoa.org
Page 2 | September 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Aging in Our Community A Message from W. Mark Clark, President and CEO
Strengthening Community Connections
Falls Prevention Awareness Week 2022 When many of us think of our loved ones who have experienced a cascade of hospitalizations and health procedures, the initial precipitating event can often be traced back to a fall. As we note each year about this time, falling is the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries in people 65 and older, and one in four older adults have a fall each year. Like many of you I suspect, I know this from personal experience. The good news is that there are many steps we can take to reduce this risk. Falls Prevention Awareness Week takes place September 18-24, but preventing falls is a year-round effort that all of us at PCOA take very seriously. One of the main goals of our suite of Healthy Living classes is to empower older adults to manage their health and wellbeing so they can maintain their independence and quality of life. Some examples of our classes include A Matter of Balance, EnhanceFitness, The Aging Mastery Program and more. The Healthy Living suite of classes covers things like the cause of falls and how to prevent them, strategies to bolster physical fitness and balance, as well as other ways to empower older adults to keep themselves safe and healthy. Falls Prevention is a community effort that should be taken seriously not only by older adults but also for those who care for them. In this issue of Never Too Late you will find pointers, classes, special events and resources to prevent falls for yourself and those you love.
HomeMatch Pima Over the past two years or so, PCOA researched national homesharing models with the intention of establishing a county-wide program to match older homeowners with homesharers in meaningful and affordable ways. The goal was to create stable housing for older adults to age in place with social connections and dignity. With the generous support from the Tucson Industrial Development Authority (IDA), Pima County Board of Supervisors, and the City of Tucson, we spoke with dozens of interested community members, and met with small groups who shared their interests, commitments—and concerns. Our exploratory journey uncovered several considerations that limit our ability to make homesharing matches at this time. We have learned that people remain deeply cautious about sharing their homes with non-family members in this era of COVID-19. Additionally, homesharing in Arizona (in which a homeowner is matched with a homesharer) may be considered a landlord-tenant relationship which adds legal considerations and complications to the process. Because of that we believe more advocacy work needs to be done, which we plan on doing. While PCOA is unable to continue HomeMatch Pima at this time, we remain committed to advocating for affordable housing solutions—including possible homesharing options and developing innovative programs to meet the needs
of older adults in our community. In the meantime, we are providing information about housing resources on our website at https://pcoa.org/ways-we-help/ housing.html/ Community Needs Assessment Every few years PCOA conducts a community needs assessment to ensure that we have a deep understanding of the needs and experiences of older adults in our community. This information helps us tailor our programs and services to the current and pressing needs of people right here in Pima County. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic our previously scheduled community needs assessment was postponed, meaning this is the first assessment we are conducting in six years and we need your help! All Pima County residents age 50 or older are eligible to participate in the Community Needs Assessment. We want to hear from as many people as possible to ensure we have a robust picture of the needs of people in our community. Please visit needs.pcoa.org to complete the assessment today!
W.Mark Clark President & CEO
September 2022, Never Too Late | Page 3
Pima Council on Aging
Dementia Capable Southern Arizo na
September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month, a time where an increased effort is made to raise awareness of fall risks and ways in which to prevent falls. Individuals living with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias are four to five times more likely to fall than older adults who do not have cognitive impairment.
September Memory Cafés! A welcoming place for those experiencing memory loss and their care givers. Be part of our community, we invite you to come socialize with others in a safe, supportive, and fun environment.
• Ensure adequate lighting o Use night lights in the bedroom, hallway, and bathrooms o Install lights in dark closets o Keep entrances and outside walkways well lit • Provide visual contrast o Chairs, beds or toilet seats that are a different color than the floor are easier to see o Use non-slip contrasting bathmats or decals on the bottom of the tubs o Install darker handrails on light colored walls o Apply bright, non-slip tape on the edge of each step or on the bottom and top stair • Enhance accessibility o Lower bed height o Use adaptive equipment o Keep important items in consistent, visibility and each to reach places What can you to do help reduce the risk of falls if you have dementia or are caring for a loved one with dementia?
Why is it that someone living with dementia is at a higher risk of having a fall?
Posada Life
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• More likely to experience challenges with mobility, balance, or muscle weakness • May have difficulties with memory and finding their way around • Challenges processing what they see and reacting to situations • Medications play a role as well, they can cause feeling of drowsiness, dizziness, and lower blood pressure • Can find it difficult to communicate their worries, needs or feelings Each person will experience dementia in their own way, some may experience all or none of these risk factors.
In partnership with Posada Life Community Services Date/time: 3rd Saturday of each month September 17 | 1–2pm Location: Posada Life Community Center
780 S. Park Centre Ave. Green Valley, AZ 85614 Point of contact: Ellen March at 520.393.6840 or EMarch@casagv.org
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In partnership with Senior Pride Date/time: 4th Wednesday of each month September 28 | 10–11am Location: 600 S. Country Club Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716 Point of contact: Nicole Thomas at 520.790.7573 x1739 or nthomas@pcoa.org To register, visit: https://cafeatthekatie.eventbrite.com For all Memory Cafés an RSVP is appreciated but not required. For information about specific Memory Cafés contact the café point of contact.
• Ensure safe footwear • Keep pathways clear
Page 4 | September 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Medicare Corner
Understanding Medicare Presentation Hybrid (in-person and virtual)
Come learn about:
Medicare basics – difference between Original Medicare & Medicare Advantage Medigap Policies (Supplementary coverage) Coordination of Benefits (Medicare and VA coverage, COBRA, Retiree Plans, AHCCCS, etc.)
How to enroll How to make changes Medicare Savings Programs for low-income beneficiaries
Location:
PCOA - The Katie 660 S. Country Club Rd. Tucson, AZ 8571616 September 8 & 22
Live Zoom Presentation
September 8 & 22
Date
Thursday, 10am -1pm https://umvirtual22.eventbrite.com
Day/Time: Registration:
Thursday, 10am -1pm https://katiemedicareip.eventbrite.com
For more information, contact PCOA Helpline at (520) 790-7262 or email SHIP@pcoa.org This project was supported, in part by grant number 90MPPG0022, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official acl policy. Medicare Grievances, Complaints, and Beneficiary Resources
errors are honest mistakes related to the billing of a health care service or product. A pattern of errors by a physician or provider could be considered a red flag or potential fraud or abuse if not corrected. Some common examples of Medicare fraud or abuse are: • Billing for services or supplies that were not provided • Providing unsolicited supplies to beneficiaries • Misrepresenting a diagnosis, a beneficiary’s identity, the service provided, or other facts to justify payment
• Prescribing or providing excessive or unnecessary tests and services •Violating the participating provider agreement with Medicare by refusing to bill Medicare for covered services or items and billing the beneficiary instead • Offering or receiving a kickback (bribe) in exchange for a beneficiary’s Medicare number or for getting a service from them • Requesting Medicare numbers at an educational presentation or in an unsolicited phone call
What should I do if I suspect Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse? Medicare fraud occurs when someone knowingly deceives Medicare to receive payment when they should not, or to receive higher payment than they should. Medicare abuse involves billing Medicare for services that are not covered or are not correctly coded when the provider has unknowingly and unintentionally misrepresented the facts to obtain payment. Abuse includes any practice that does not provide patients with medically necessary services or meet professionally recognized standards of care. Medicare
(continued on next page)
September 2022, Never Too Late | Page 5
Pima Council on Aging
Medicare Corner
Medicare Coverage and COVID-19
COVID-19 antibody treatment Medicare covers monoclonal antibodies to treat COVID-19. You will owe no cost- sharing (deducible, coinsurance, or copayment). Medicare Advantage Plans must cover everything that Original Medicare does, but they can do so with different costs and restrictions. Telehealth benefits A telehealth service is a full visit with your doctor using video technology. During the public health emergency, Medicare covers hospital and doctors’ office visits, mental health counseling, preventive health screenings, and other visits via telehealth for all people with Medicare. You can access these benefits at home or in health care settings. You may owe standard cost- sharing (like a coinsurance or copayment) for these services. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, it must cover telehealth services as well. Contact your plan to learn about its costs and coverage specifics. Prescription refills • During the public health emergency, your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan should remove restrictions that stop you from refilling most prescriptions too soon. • During the public health emergency, all Medicare Advantage and Part D plans must cover up to a 90-day supply of a drug when you ask for it. However, plans cannot provide a 90-day supply of a drug if it has certain restrictions on the amount that can be safely provided, like restrictions that commonly apply to opioids. Pima Council on Aging is your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). If you need help understanding what Medicare covers and how to access
During the public health emergency*, it is important to know which services Medicare covers related to COVID-19 and how to access care. COVID-19 testing Medicare covers your first COVID-19 test without an order from a doctor other qualified health care provider. After your first test, Medicare requires you to get an order from your provider for any further COVID-19 tests you receive. You will owe nothing for the laboratory test and related provider visits (no deductible, coinsurance, or copayment). This applies to both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans. Starting April 4, 2022, if you have Medicare Part B you can receive up to 8 over-the-counter (OTC) at-home tests at no cost from eligible providers and pharmacies. This program lasts until the end of the public health emergency. Check with your pharmacy or provider in advance to learn if they participate in this program. COVID-19 vaccine • Original Medicare Part B covers COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, regardless of whether you have Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan. You pay nothing for the vaccine or boosters. o Health officials recommend the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shots for maximum protection against the virus. Speak with your doctor if you have questions or concerns. • Bring your red, white, and blue Medicare card with you to your vaccination appointment, even if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan . If you do not have your card on you, your vaccine provider may ask you for your Social Security number so that they can look up your Medicare information.
(continued from previous page) Medicare Grievances care, contact us at (520) 546-2011. *PHE renewal was signed on July 1, 2022. Source: https://www.phe.gov/emergency/ news/healthactions/phe/Pages/default. aspx You can watch out for fraud by keeping a calendar or calling your local SMP for a My Health Care Tracker, to track all of your medical appointments then comparing it with your Medicare statements (Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) if you have Original Medicare and Explanations of Benefits (EOBs) if you have Medicare Advantage or Part D) and bills from your providers. If something does not seem right—for example, if you see in your MSN that your provider billed Medicare for an office visit on a day when you did not see them, you should first contact your provider. Call your doctor or their billing office and let them know about the problem in case it was a billing error. If your doctor does not fix the error or if you continue to suspect fraud or abuse, you can call: PCOA at (520) 790-7262 for assistance. •Your Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) can help you identify Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse, and can help you report potential fraud to the correct authorities. Contact information for your SMP is on the final page of this document. This project was supported, in part by grant number 90mppg0022, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official acl policy.
Page 6 | September 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Rights & Benefits Information ALTCS Workshop
Older Americans lose $2.9 billion dollars annually from financial exploitation Join us as we focus our discussion on combatting scams, exploitation, and financial fraud targeting older adults. September 29 | 1-2 pm Protect Yourself and Your Money
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.
600 S Country Club Rd, TEP Room
Please join us on Zoom from your computer, tablet or phone. Topic: ALTCS Workshop Time: September 8, 2:30 pm MST Join Zoom Meeting
Topic: Elder Justice Initiative Guest speakers: Jonathan Granoff , Assistant United States Attorney, US Attorney’s Office Jessica Olivas , Victim Witness Specialist, US Attorney’s Office Hassan Ibrahim , Supervisory Agent IRS Criminal Investigation Dan Grossenbach , Inspector U.S. Postal Inspection Service To register for In-person please visit: https:// elderjustice22.eventbrite.com. Space is limited; please register soon. Masks not required but are encouraged. To register for Virtual please visit: https:// elderjustice22zoom.eventbrite.com. Or you can contact Donna DeLeon at 520.790.7573 ext. 1750 for assistance.
https://bit.ly/PCOAALTCS22 Or call +1 669 900 9128 US Meeting ID: 897 2167 3847 Passcode: 700090
To register , go to: https://altcssept22.eventbrite.com, or call Donna DeLeon at 520.790.7573 ext 1750.
The ALTCS workshop is held every month on the Second Thursday. Participants who would prefer in-person you are invited to register for our October training held on Thursday, October 13, 2022.
September 2022, Never Too Late | Page 7
Pima Council on Aging
Information
Come Learn About Healthy Aging
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Big Smile, Small Self: Effects of Awe on Healthy Aging (Virtual) Wed, September 21, 2022 | 5–6 PM MST | Online event About this event Innovations in Healthy Aging is kicking off its 2022-2023 Lecture Series on September 21, from 5–6 pm. The lecture will be a hybrid in-person and virtual event. We are excited to present “Big Smile, Small Self: Effects of Awe on Healthy Aging,” by Virginia Sturm, PhD, the John Douglas French Alzheimer’s Foundation Endowed Professor at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF). Awe is a positive emotion associated with wonder, creativity and generosity. Dr. Sturm will describe the mental and physical health benefits of awe and summarize a study she conducted on “awe walks” for older adults. Dr. Sturm is Associate Professor in the departments of neurology and psychiatry and the Director of the Clinical Affective Neuroscience Laboratory, which is located in the UCSF Memory and Aging Center and affiliated with the UCSF Center for Psychophysiology and Behavior. This free virtual public lecture is open to the public. Register by September 20! Want to attend in-person instead? Reserve your seat by September 15! (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/big-smile- small-self-effects-of-awe-on-healthy-aging-in-person- tickets-396118199197)
Feast For Your Brain Saturday | September 10 | 10am–3pm
Bring your family and friends!
Come Join Us! Free Entry! Health Screenings | Music | Dance Virtual Reality Headsets | Tai-Chi & Qigong Speakers | Ballet Folklorico Tapatio | Food Trucks Raffle & Prizes | and more! University of Arizona Health Sciences Innovation Building 1670 E. Drachman St.
We want to hear from MindCrowd participants
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Page 8 | September 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
A Pandemic of Kindness
By Alex Trevino, Biliingual End of Life Specialist This month, we recognize the importance of healthy aging and falls prevention. To be healthy, vital, and to age with dignity is a multi- faceted pursuit that includes, at its heart, people. Social support offers perspective and strength for even the rockiest paths in life’s journey. In fact, an Italian proverb says, “Preventing someone from falling is better than helping him get up.” This month, the Family Caregiver Support Program is accompanied by a colleague from the End of Life Initiatives Program. Alex Trevino is a Bilingual End of Life Specialist, and shares his perspectives, wisdom, and compassion in the following article focused on caregiving. Cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and a countless number of other disorders tear apart the body and the mind. And as if these disorders are unsatisfied with the damage they create, they can also tear apart relationships and families, hopes and dreams. While many diseases are ruthless and seem unstoppable, there is an unrecognized condition more powerful than each of the diseases combined. This “sickness” has the ability to impact 100% of the population with its contagion and often chronic nature. But this condition can impact people’s health for good—even providing relief and healing.
What is this mysterious “illness” and how might people contract it? The condition is called kindness, and people can become easily “infected.” In the beginning, unsuspecting carriers of the condition may spread germs on door handles by holding open a door for an older adult, parent of small children, or person with disabilities. Over time, the “fever” may become more regular with the carrier developing commitments to volunteering with human care programs or raising research funds to fight cancer or dementia. And in late stages, the condition may develop into a more serious condition known as “becoming a caregiver.” Caregiving is a scary term, I know. If not managed properly, it may impact 8 and up to 24 hours of your day. More than 1 in 5 people in the US cope with this reality daily. In most severe cases, caregivers may experience extreme fatigue, loss of sleep, high-stress levels, or loss of appetite. The most concerning symptoms are denial and refusing care for their own health. We must take the caregiving “bug” seriously and offer the best possible inoculations, care, and support to the caregivers who manage its side effects each day. Caregivers are the curators of our nation’s living history, they are librarians for our loved one's memories. Caregivers heal our injured, assist those with disabilities, and serve as prosthetics for our elders’ independence.
Caregivers may not be recognized as first responder heros, or receive monetary rewards for their acts of selfless service, but they are examples for the rest of us to follow. They teach us the value of life, encourage us in the ways of tenacity, and challenge us to consider others instead of ourselves. They are kindness survivors, and they inspire us to face the “kindness infection” with courage. I encourage you to show kindness to a caregiver today. Offer a caregiver practical help—a home cooked meal, a few hours of respite or retreat, a small gift that shows them how important they are. Or better yet, prescribe for them the time and opportunity to take care of their own health—to breathe deeply, get some exercise, and visit their healthcare provider. You might not be able to cure the caregiver bug, but you can surely alleviate some of the symptoms!
September 2022, Never Too Late | Page 9
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
PCOA CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS – SEPTEMBER Five are currently being held by Zoom plus six 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 the Helpline at (520) 790-7262. Participation in the groups can be in person (6 groups), by telephone or by computer/tablet/smartphone w/ video. 9/1, 1st Thursday, 1–2:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM 9/6, 1st Tuesday , 12–1:30pm (Oro Valley) In Person 9/8, 2nd Thursday , 1–2:30pm (East) In Person 9/12, (Rescheduled from Labor Day) , 1–2:30pm (East) In Person 9/13, 2nd Tuesday, 5:30–7pm Virtual ON ZOOM 9/12, 2nd Monday , 1–2:30pm (Green Valley) 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. 9/15, 3rd Thursday, 1:30–3pm Virtual ON ZOOM 9/19, 3rd Monday, 1–2:30pm (Midtown) In Person 9/20, 3rd Tuesday , 9–10:30am Virtual ON ZOOM 9/26, 4th Monday, 11am–12:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM 9/27, 4th Tuesday , 9–10:30am (Southwest) In Person
“On an airplane, you are always told to put on your own oxygen mask first. The same way in life, you need to take care of your health first. If you are not happy and healthy, you cannot make anyone else happy and healthy.”
SEPTEMBER
— Rajashree Choudhury
*NOTE: There will be no meetings on days where holidays are observed PLEASE RSVP for all groups. At all in person meetings we continue to social distance and mask wearing is optional. To reserve a space or if you have any questions, please contact the PCOA Helpline at (520) 790-7262.
Page 10 | September 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
Free training for informal, nonpaid family caregivers Caregiving Essentials: First Steps Training Schedule 2022
Friday, September 16 Wednesday, October 12 Monday, November 7
The Katie 600 S. Country Club, 85716 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 Kelley Hansen 520-790-7573 ext. 3413; khansen@pcoa.org For possible respite during training, call Arizona Caregiver Coalition 888.737.7494 or our Helpline 520-790-7262. This training does not provide certification or CEU’s for employment. *Classes are subject to change due to health precautions. See page 30 for details.
September 2022, Never Too Late | Page 11
Pima Council on Aging
PCOA Community Lunch Program
Do You Know... • Someone who could benefit from a lunch program that also provides an opportunity to make new friends. Let’s face it, eating alone, at home, is no fun. • These programs are typically open from Monday – Friday (except as noted and holidays) from 9:00 a.m. to approximately 1pm. • There are fun activities available during these hours. Depending on the site, activities include games, movies, crafts and even field trips. • A transportation subsidy may be available to get someone to these lunch programs. Transportation is provided via Sun Van, to individuals with disabilities with a current ADA Eligibility Card issued by the City of Tucson. • That these lunch programs are open to all individuals 60 and older and their spouse regardless of age. Once you register at a meal site, you will be required to reserve your meals each week. That way, we know you’re coming and your lunch is waiting for you. A suggested donation of $2–$3 is requested. Community Center Lunches are a program of the Pima Council on Aging in collaboration with sub-contracted agencies: Catholic Community Services, and the City of Tucson Parks & Recreation Department. Have Lunch and Make a Friend
Check it out here: https://pcoa.org/ways-we-help/ meals-nutrition.html/ Click on “View Monthly Menu” This Month’s Menu
COMMUNITY LUNCH CENTERS NEAR YOU
Ajo Community
290 W. Fifth St., Ajo 85321
520-387-5040 520-791-4353 520-791-4070 520-889-0928 520-837-8210 520-887-9786 520-791-4969 520-791-3247 520-791-2509 520-485-7413 520-791-5787
Archer Neighborhood Armory Park Senior *
1665 S. La Cholla Blvd., Tucson 85713 220 S. 5th Ave., Tucson 85701 101 W. Irvington Rd., Tucson 85714 1390 W. Speedway Blvd., Tucson 85705 1660 W. Ruthrauff Rd., Tucson 85705
El Pueblo Neighborhood Center El Rio Neighborhood Center
Ellie Towne/Flowing Wells Community Center **
Freedom Recreation Center
5000 E. 29th St., Tucson 85711 2160 N. 6th Ave., Tucson 85705
Donna Liggins Center
780 S. Park Centre Ave., Green Valley 85614 520-393-6814
Posada Life Community Center Quincie Douglas Senior Center
1575 E. 36th St., Tucson 85713
Saguaro Christian Church William Clements Center
8302 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson 85710 8155 E. Poinciana Dr., Tucson 85730
Please call in advance to reserve a meal and for days and hours of operation. Funded by: Federal Older Americans Act through AZ DES/DAAS, United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, City of Tucson, and Individual Contributions * Dinner meal only ** Open Mon., Wed., Fri.
Page 12 | September 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.
EnhanceFitness®
Our current schedule for EnhanceFitness® classes (1 hour class) is: Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays • Randolph Recreation Center, is 200 S. Alvernon Way, Bldg. 1 , 9–10 am • El Rio Center, 1390 W. Speedway Blvd. , 11am–12 pm • Clements Regional Ctr., Fitness Center 8155 E. Poinciana Dr. , 8:30–9:30am • Udall Park, Carol West Senior Center, 7222 E Tanque Verde Rd. , 11am–12 pm • Tucson Estates (TENHN), 5900 W Western Way Circle , 10:30–11:30 am Mondays – Recreation Hall, Wednesdays & Fridays Multi-Purpose Hall Pre-registration is required through Eventbrite (located on the PCOA homepage), https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/enhancefitness-classes-176939 . Class size is limited. For assistance, call us at (520) 305-3410. In reference to contribution - September only - $27/month/participant The fee for Sept. is 25% off in celebration of National Fall Prevention Awareness Month .
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. Call Jennie at (520) 305-3410 for more information.
Picture Rocks Community Center 5615 North Sanders Rd. Mon., Wed., Fri., 10:30–11:30 am Drexel Heights Community Center 5220 South San Joaquin Ave. Mon., Wed., Fri., 12–1 pm Ellie Towne/Flowing Wells** Community Center, 1660 W Ruthrauff Rd. Mon., Wed., Fri., 10:30–11:30 am
Register Now! Search for Senior Fitness , at https://webcms.pima.gov/government/ natural_resources_parks_and_recreation/ Chose the center of your choice from the
list and go their class listing, look for EnhanceFitness to register. ** Class Not Open Yet
• Learn Practical Skills • Gain Self-confidence • Manage Fall Risks • Positive Changes & Healthier Living
Healthy Living with Chronic Pain offered in-person
October 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10 Thursdays, 10 am–12:30 pm 600 S. Country Club Rd., Fitness Room
*Classes subject to change due to health precautions. See page 30 for details.
Contribution Fee: $30 (covers your book & supplies) What: A six-week program for 2.5 hours once a week
September 2022, Never Too Late | Page 13
Pima Council on Aging
Healthy Living
A Matter of Balance Offered in Person
Sept., 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29 Tuesdays & Thursdays | 1 – 3 pm Tucson Estates 5900 W Western Way Circle (Multi-Purpose Hall)
October 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 25 (Tues.), 26 Wednesdays & Fridays | 1:30 – 3:30 pm Posada Life Community Services 780 S Park Centre Ave, Green Valley, AZ
More locations will become available and are being scheduled.
Contribution Fee: $30.00 (covers your book and supplies) Many older adults become concerned about their balance and falling as they age. They may 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.
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 • Recognize fall hazards • Make changes to reduce fall risk at home • Exercise to increase strength and balance What do participants learn?
Who should attend?
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
For more information and to register, contact Jennie at (520) 305-3410.
*Classes are subject to change due to health precautions. See page 30 for details.
Page 14 | September 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Healthy Living
Strengthening Community Connections in Fall Prevention is a Team Effort
Your occupational therapist (OT) Whether you’re already working with an OT or not, they are a vital part of any fall
It seems like common sense—everybody falls, no matter what age. However, for many older adults, an unexpected fall can result in a serious and costly injury. The good news is that most falls are preventable. And one of the ways you can prevent a fall is by knowing who you can call on for help. That is why fall prevention should be a team effort, where each member of the team offers expertise in their area of responsibility or field of work. Some members include health care professionals, like your primary care physician, an occupational therapist, physical therapist, pharmacists, and more. While health care professionals provide much of the expertise and experience to ensure you live independently and falls free, there are other resources in your community that contribute to falls prevention. Let's get to know your falls prevention team From medication and vision impairment to poor lighting and chronic conditions, the factors to watch for are numerous. That’s why having a team to help spot and address fall risks is so helpful. Below are the resources that play a significant role in
prevention team. They can ensure your assistive devices fit your needs and assess your home to identify hazards to eliminate and modifications needed that can prevent falls. Your primary care physician (PCP) Primary care physicians are often able to work with patients on fall prevention and get the process started because they see patients regularly. Your PCP knows your medical history and manages chronic illness like diabetes and arthritis that may put you at risk. PCPs can recommend evidence-based programs designed to reduce fall risk, spot hidden injuries resulting from a fall, and evaluate side-effects and other problems with medications that may increase your risk of falling. Be proactive about addressing falls when you visit your doctor. Tell your doctor if you’ve fallen recently, feel unsteady on your feet or are worried about falling. Your pharmacist Most older adults take medications or supplements daily. The effects of medications on our risk of falling aren’t usually something we think about when we’re trying to get over a cold or manage disease like high blood pressure or arthritis. That is why pharmacists are an important part of any fall’s prevention team. When you pick up your medications, use the opportunity to ask about any side effects you’re experiencing, and any changes in the medications you’re taking. Your physical therapist (PT) Physical therapists are an important member of the fall prevention team. They can work with you to improve balance, strength, and mobility to prevent falls and can help address the reasons you may be feeling unsteady. Physical therapists can also help you identify what you can do each day to manage your falls risk and connect you to resources in the community to maintain and improve your strength and balance. Your fire department Your local fire department can play a key role in fall prevention and do more than help you in case you do fall. Fire departments
promoting safety and preventing falls for you. Your falls prevention team should include: • family and friends • an occupational therapist (OT) • your primary care physician (PCP) • a pharmacist
• your recreation or senior center • your hardware store • your faith-based organization(s) • your library • your local sporting goods store
• a physical therapist (PT) • your local fire department
Each of them brings a unique mix of expertise and familiarity that can provide important protections against falling. Your family and friends You know them, you trust them, and they are happy to help. Family and friends provide some extra hands, or another set of eyes to check and rid your home of fall hazards. The next time they come over to visit or help around the house, ask them to take a little extra time helping you find common fall hazards. Family and friends can also join you during doctor visits and help ask questions and gather information about prevention falls.
(continued on next page)
September 2022, Never Too Late | Page 15
Pima Council on Aging
Healthy Living
(continued from previous page) Fall Prevention can help prevent falls by offering home safety checks to spot falls hazards, such as rugs without non-slip backing or too many electrical devices plugged into one outlet. They also can assist in testing and replacing smoke alarms. Firefighters can also connect you to resources in the community to prevent falls. Your recreation/senior center Senior centers are local community-based meeting places where you can gather to enjoy recreational, social, cultural, health and wellness and educational programs to remain physically active, learn new things, and stay engaged with the community. They are also a trusted community hub for health and fitness programs to encourage exercise and movement. Your hardware stores Y ou can find household goods and many other home products and appliances to maintain and improve your home at any local hardware store. It is the ideal one-stop shop if you want to make modifications to your home to reduce your risk of falls. They have all the supplies and materials needed to make your home a safe and comfortable place to age in place and remain independent, such as grab bars, a hand-held shower head, nightlights and lightbulbs for brighter light, and nonslip pads for your rugs. Your faith-based organization(s) You can depend on your faith-based organization to support and encourage you along your fall prevention journey. Faith leaders are trusted sources of valuable information and can connect you to community resources to address your needs, especially your health. You can also count on your faith community for social support. Your library Libraries are a valuable place to learn about falls prevention. They have books and other media for you to use so you can be more informed and educated about your health and fall prevention. Your local sporting goods store Your local sporting goods store is a valuable resource for the most appropriate shoes, clothes, and equipment to help you stay active and falls free. These stores can help you pick out the best shoes for walking, hiking, and the right equipment for health and fitness programs.
Ready to build your falls prevention team? As you start to pull together those who will help you protect your health and independence, you can always turn to your area agency on aging for information on the evidence-based, fall prevention programs available in your area. Some of these include A Matter of Balance, Bingocize and Enhance Fitness. They can provide resources for home modification needs. Call them, they are here to help!
Source: National Council on Aging (NCOA), July 2022 Southern Chapter of the Arizona Falls Prevention Coalition Community Presentations
Falls are a threat to the health of older adults and can reduce their ability to remain independent. However, falls don’t have to be inevitable as you age. You can reduce your chance of falling or help a loved one prevent falls. There are proven ways to reduce and prevent falls for people of all ages especially older adults. During National Falls Prevention Awareness month, communities and states work to raise awareness about the impact of falls and the strategies proven to reduce and prevent them. Pima Council on Aging and the Pima County Health Department are co-founders of the Southern Chapter of the Arizona Falls Prevention Coalition (SCAZFPC). Along with other coalition members, they invite you to attend one of the following fall prevention community presentations: Wednesday, September 21 | 10:30 am – 12 pm | Ellie Towne/ Flowing Wells Community Center | 1660 W. Ruthrauff Rd. Tuesday, September 27 | 10:30 am – 12 pm | Saguaro Christian Church | 8302 E. Broadway Blvd. Wednesday, September 28 | 10:30 am – 12 pm | Posada Life Community Services | 780 S. Park Centre Ave. | Green Valley Thursday, October 6 | 12:30 pm – 2 pm | Armory Park Center | 220 S. 5th Ave. Seating is limited. For more information contact Jennie at 520-305-3410
Page 16 | September 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Healthy Living
These past several months, older adults in our community have been diligent about getting their booster shots to keep themselves and their families and friends safe. This spring the CDC approved a 4th booster shot for people 50 years of age or older or for people who are moderately to severely immunocompromised. Take YOUR FOURTH Shot!
Join University of Arizona Health Sciences and Banner - University Medicine for our second annual Fall Prevention Fair! Date and time: Thursday, September 29, 2022 4:30–7:00 PM MST Location: Health Sciences Innovation Building 1670 E. Drachman St. Tucson, AZ 85721 Eventbrite Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/falls- prevention-fair-2022-tickets-344819052067 About this event The second annual Falls Prevention Fair hosted by Banner - University Medicine and the University of Arizona Health Sciences empowers older adults with the tools they need to live happy, healthy lives free from the fear of falling. Join us for educational sessions from a variety of university experts, interactive workshops in balance and tai chi, a vendor fair, food and refreshments, and giveaways. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., and presentations will begin at 5 p.m. Featured topics will include:* • Falls prevention risks for older adults • Fractures, osteoporosis, and prevention of fractures • Medication that can increase fall risk • Nutrition and hydration for fall and fracture prevention • Adaptive equipment for mobility • Clutter and home safety *Schedule subject to change. Stay tuned for more details closer to the event date.
It’s easy with the pandemic restrictions beginning to lift to forget what a threat COVID-19 still poses for us and our communities. Our single best bet to stopping new variants and ensuring the safety of ourselves and others is to make sure you are up to date with your vaccines. And that means to take the latest booster shots as you become eligible. Visit covid19.pcoa.org for the most up to date information about the COVID-19 vaccine and for information on how you can receive your COVID-19 booster shots.
September 2022, Never Too Late | Page 17
Pima Council on Aging
PCOA Puzzle
September Puzzle
75 Law 76 Fight against underwater threats 77 Penny 78 U R L starter Down 1 Kind of hoop 2 Competently 3 Cape Town carrier 4 One of the Indian majority 5 Quarrelsome grouch 6 Very fashionable 7 Hog-wild 8 Recording medium
9 Belief system 10 Bad weather 11 Paved outdoor area
12 Karate degree 15 Hammer god 21 Aim
23 Federal fiscal watchdog 25 One of a hundred in D C
27 Eye cell 28 Methods
29 Statement of understanding 30 The Beatles' lovely meter maid 32 Apiece 33 Antidotes 34 Classic Ford model 37 Type of rechargeable cell 39 Man-eating giant 40 Stimulating South American shrub 41 Sit in a tub 43 Bank machine 46 E.g. Robinson, Doubtfire 48 Plump 50 Vigor
52 Thanksgiving dish 54 Spherical hairdo 55 --- Vista, Disney brand 56 Military groups 58 Outguess 61 Heroic 64 Gasp 65 Bead 66 Newswoman --- Curry 68 The present time 70 Cable/satellite network 72 Dine 62 Diminish slowly 63 Vast multitude
49 Rotational speed measure 51 Bashful 53 Top 54 Harsh treatment 57 Applicable 59 Entertainment 60 Bench with a back 63 Letters on Royal Navy ships 64 E.g. a street kiss 67 Horse controller 69 Spanish fashion designer ---
26 Casing 28 Electrical connector 31 Passed away (Abbr.) 34 Old card game 35 "Would it be ---?" (Presley: "Can't help falling in love") 36 Father's sibling 38 Physicians 42 So far 43 Sour-smelling 44 Sticky stuff 45 Junction 47 Not us 48 Killer whale
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Rabanne 71 Long 73 Aware of 74 Overnight stops
Answers: following page
Page 18 | September 2022, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Information
ADVERTISEMENT
Puzzle Solution from previous page
Are you looking for ways to live and age well?
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September 2022, Never Too Late | Page 19
Pima Council on Aging
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