Never Too Late - February 2023

Publication of Pima Council on Aging, Helping Pima County Age Well Since 1967

Never Too Late Para información en Español ver páginas 20 - 21

February 2023 What’s News • Aging in Our Community • Dementia Capable SoAZ • Medicare & SMP Updates • Rights & Benefits • Caregiving • Healthy Living: Classes Happening Now! • Healthy Minds for Life • PCOA Puzzle • Ending Life Well • Neighbors Care Alliance • Visibility Matters • Advocacy • Senior Companion Program • CareGiver Training Institute • PimaCare at Home

American Heart Month

PUBLICATION OF PIMA COUNCIL ON AGING, HELPING PIMA COUNTY AGE WELL SINCE 1967

Independence. Vitality. Respect.

Inside • Aging in Our Community 3 • Dementia Capable Southern Arizona 4 • Medicare & SMP 5 - 6 • Rights & Benefits 7 - 8 • Caregiving 9 - 10 • Community Lunch Program 12 • Healthy Living 13 - 16 • Healthy Minds for Life 17 • PCOA Puzzle 18 - 19 • Nunca Es Demasiado Tarde 20 - 21 • Ending Life Well 25

• Visibility Matters 26 - 27 • Advocacy 28

• Senior Companion Program 29 • Neighbors Care Alliance 30 - 31 • PRIMEtime & Wisdom Circle 32 • Philanthropy: FreeWill 33 • Featured Artist 34 • CareGiver Training Institute, Healthcare Education by PCOA 35 • PimaCare at Home, In-Home Care by PCOA 36

PCOA Helpline: (520) 790-7262 Administration: (520) 790-0504 Donate: givepcoa.org E-mail: help@pcoa.org Website: pcoa.org Mail: 8467 E. Broadway Blvd. Tucson, AZ 85710 Never Too Late is published by Pima Council on Aging, the Area Agency on Aging, Region II. Material from Never Too Late may be reprinted when permission is given and attribution is used along with ©PCOA 2023. Editor Adina Wingate, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5067 awingate@pcoa.org Editorial Assistant Jan Baker, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5076 jbaker@pcoa.org Advertising Adina Wingate, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5067 awingate@pcoa.org Design Consultant Lori Lieber, Lori Lieber Graphic Design lori@lorilieber.com

On the Cover: Detail from Kinetic Diversion, acrylic on canvas by Barbara MacCambridge, The Drawing Studio. (Story, full image on inside back cover)

Help from PCOA During the Pandemic

Due to the increasing rate of COVID-19 transmission in Pima County and updated guidance from the CDC and Pima County Health Department, PCOA revised its guidance to staff and volunteers, and when interacting with members of the public, effective October 1, 2022. We encourage the public to access our services by phone or email whenever possible. Please remember that although masking in PCOA facilities continues to be option, the following guidelines are still in effect: All staff are expected to offer to wear masks and wear them when requested. PCOA will continue to supply surgical masks and KN95s to staff, volunteers and members of the public entering our facilities as requested. • Our building at 8467 E. Broadway Blvd. is open for those requiring in-person assistance. • Our building at 600 S. Country Club Rd. is open for those requiring in-person assistance. We encourage you to call and make an appointment to ensure the right staff are available to assist you. The best way to access our services, including making an appointment for in – person assistance, is by calling our Helpline between 8:30 AM and 5 PM Monday through Friday at (520) 790-7262 or emailing help@pcoa.org

Editorial and Advertising Deadline for Next Issue FEBRUARY 3 2023

Please include a contact person name and phone number with all submitted material. All articles are subject to editing in accordance with technical and policy guidelines but will not be altered in content without permission of the author. Publication of submissions is not guaranteed. Ads are not to be considered as PCOA endorsements of products, services, or individuals.

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TWITTER@ PCOAging

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Read Never Too Late online at nevertoolate.pcoa.org

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Pima Council on Aging

Aging in Our Community A guest opinion from Judy B. Clinco, RN, BS

Guest Opinion: Advance planning makes life changes easier for older adults

By Judith B. Clinco, RN, BS, is founder and president of Tucson-based Catalina In-Home Services Inc. and founder of the CareGiver Training Institute. Published by The Arizona Daily Star Monday, January 10, 2023 and reprinted with permission. The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer: ‘Tis the season to make resolutions. May I suggest one that could impact your life in profound ways, now and in the future? If you’re at that happy spot in life — you’re retired, possibly, but you still greet the day with energy and enthusiasm — this is a great time to get your future life in order. Why now? Because, let’s face it, none of us is invincible. If you’re lucky, you’ll live a long, happy, healthy life. But hope (or luck) isn’t a plan; time catches up with all of us, one way or another. Why not invest some of that energy and enthusiasm you now enjoy in planning how a not-so- robust future you will live? As Yogi Berra said, when you come to a fork in the road, take it. Good (albeit head-scratching) advice! Let’s call one path of the fork “procrastination.” It leads to a place where other people will make decisions for you: how and where you’ll live, how your money will be spent, your health care choices, and so on. The other path is called “planning ahead.” Not as much fun as booking that big

cruise, but in terms of your future quality of life, much more important. To be clear, I’m not talking about writing a will. That’s an important part of the planning process, but a will’s relevance is largely post- mortem. I’m talking about how things will go while you’re still alive. Most people want to age in place — at home. While often the best choice, there are a lot of moving parts involved. Is your home a safe place for someone with mobility issues (think stairs, trip hazards, bathroom grab bars, smoke detectors ...)? And will you need a caregiver? If so — who will that be? A family member? Someone from a home care agency? What about sharing your home with a “younger elder” or a college student, trading free housing Another moving part: what resources will you need? Do you have long-term-care insurance? A hefty nest egg or sufficient ongoing income? What about building a backyard casita for yourself or a caregiver — or to use as a rental property? Do you have an advance directive on file? Do others know where it is? Have you mastered the technology for home delivery, ridesharing, video chats and so on? for support and companionship? Or moving to a continuing-care retirement community?

Planning ahead has another plus, too: stuff happens. One fall, one accident, one unwelcome diagnosis or the loss of a spouse and suddenly you’re in crisis mode, the worst possible situation in which to make consequential decisions. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed (and tempted to procrastinate) by all this. But advance planning is not something you need to do alone; you’re surrounded by a community ready to help. Talking with the professionals at your local Area Agency on Aging is a good place to start — you have nothing to say that they haven’t heard before. Interviewing certified fiduciaries is another wise move. Identifying ahead of time a money manager you know and trust is a great antidote to stress. Maybe most important: talk with your family! Start a conversation with your neighbors and friends! There’s no need to divulge confidential financial or health information, but they — and you — will be relieved to know you’re thinking ahead. You might find they’ve already been wondering what the future could look like. Once you’ve done your homework, go ahead and take that cruise. You’ll have a much better time without a load of anxiety and unfinished business in your baggage .

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Pima Council on Aging

Dementia Capable Southern Arizo na

February is American Heart Month – What is good for the heart is good for the brain! Heart disease risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, elevated blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking, have also been shown to be risk factors for dementia. General cognitive decline is particularly significant in individuals with high cholesterol. The good news is that you can take steps to reduce your risk of cognitive decline and make a positive impact on your heart health at the same time. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified at least a dozen things that can easily be done. Steps to a healthy heart and brain: • Eat healthy foods – consult a medical professional about nutrition options for your heart and brain health • Stop smoking and limit alcohol • Stay physically active (For adults 65 and over, WHO recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity per week) • Stay mentally active – engaging in activities that stimulate your brain • See your doctor – diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can all increase your risk of heart issues and dementia

A Memory Café is a warm, welcoming environment for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. They are designed to include caregivers as well (if they are involved), for a shared experience. Each Memory Café is unique, they focus on different aspects to create a distinctive experience for the individual with cognitive decline and their loved ones. Some Memory Cafés invite guest artists or musicians to attend, some offer education about memory changes, while others are just for relaxing and chatting. Free and welcome to all! Memory Cafés

In partnership with Senior Pride

Starting March 2023 will be hosting 2 cafés a month! February 22nd from 10–11am 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

In partnership with Posada Life Community Services

February 18th from 1–2pm Posada Life Community Center

Memory concerns? Call the PCOA Helpline at 520.790.7262 or visit our website to complete a referral form online https://www.pcoa.org/dementiareferral/ 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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Pima Council on Aging

Medicare Corner

Have costs for Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) changed in 2023?

* Note the out-of-pocket costs that help you get out of the donut hole include what you’ve spent on covered drugs since the start of the year (deductible, copays); most of the discount for brand-name drugs while you’re in the donut hole; and any drug costs paid by family members, most charities, State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs), AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAPs), and/or the Indian Health Service. How have insulin and vaccine costs changed in 2023? The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act created permanent changes to insulin and vaccine costs for Medicare beneficiaries. Starting in January 2023, copays for each Part D-covered insulin product will be capped at $35 per each month’s supply, with no deductible. Starting in July 2023, copays for each Part B-covered insulin product will be capped at $35 per month, with no deductible. Additionally, starting in 2023 you will owe no copays or deductibles for vaccines covered by your Part D plan, including the shingles vaccines. What are Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) SEPs are periods of time outside of normal enrollment periods in which you can make changes to your Medicare.

your plan’s benefits, costs, and covered drugs for 2023. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan with prescription drug coverage, you should have received one EOC that describes both your health and prescription drug coverage for 2023. Part D plans must include the minimum coverage that is set by law, but each plan may offer varying types of coverage. For example, in 2023 Part D plans can set a maximum deductible (amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance begins to pay) of $505. However, some plans may not require you to pay any deductible. The following chart shows costs last year compared to this year. Be sure to review your plan materials for specific cost changes .

If you have Medicare prescription drug coverage, often referred to as Part D, your plan should have notified you about any changes in costs for 2023. Part D plans can change the drugs they cover, their pharmacy networks, and their costs (such as copayments, coinsurance charges, and deductibles) from year to year. Remember, there are two main ways that you can get your Medicare prescription drug coverage: • A Medicare Advantage Plan that covers both health and drug coverage, or • A stand-alone Part D plan that works with Original Medicare. Your Part D plan should have sent you an ANOC or EOC notice informing you of

Medicare Part D Costs: 2022 vs. 2023

2022

2023

Part D maximum deductible

Up to $480 /year

Up to $505 /year

Part D coverage gap threshold You reach the coverage gap, or donut hole, when you and your plan together have spent this much on covered drugs since the start of the year. Part D catastrophic coverage limit You get out of the donut hole and reach catastrophic coverage when you have spent this much out of pocket * since the start of the year.

$4,430

$4,660

$7,050

$7,400

(continued on next page)

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

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Pima Council on Aging

Medicare Corner

Medicare Part D (continued from previous page)

includes situations where a beneficiary states that they were enrolled into a plan without their knowledge or consent, and requests cancellation of the enrollment or disenrollment from the plan. For more information contact SHIP at (520) 546-2011 or email us at SHIP@pcoa.org. • If someone calls you and asks for your Medicare number or other personal information, hang up and call your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP). How can I replace my Medicare card? If you need to replace your card because it’s damaged or lost, visit Medicare.gov to log into (or create) a secure Medicare account where you can print an official copy of your Medicare card. If you don’t have an account, visit medicare.gov/ account/login to create one. If you need to replace your card because you think that someone else is using your number, call the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) (1-877-808-2468) and 1-800-Medicare. Pima Council on Aging is your local SMP. For assistance, call (520) 546-2011. Source: https://www.smpresource.org/Content/ Medicare-Fraud/Medicare-Cards.aspx

Your Medicare Card Tips for Protecting Yourself: Here are some important steps you can take to protect yourself from the identity theft that can lead to health care fraud: • Don’t share or confirm your Medicare or Social Security number with anyone who contacts you by telephone, email, or in person, unless you’ve given them permission in advance. Medicare will NEVER contact you (unless you ask them to) to ask for your Medicare number or other personal information or to send you a new card. Medicare already has your information. • Don’t ever let anyone borrow or pay to use your Medicare number. • Review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) to be sure you and Medicare are only being charged for actual items and services received. enrollments into or disenrollments from a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan that are not otherwise captured in regulation. Starting in 2023, CMS may grant SEPs to those who provide a verbal or written allegation that their enrollment into a plan was based on misleading or incorrect information provided by a plan representative or a SHIP counselor. This

There are also many SEPs for people already enrolled in Medicare to change how they receive their Medicare coverage. For example, to switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage or to join a new Part D or Medicare Advantage Plan. There is an SEP for individuals whom CMS determines have experienced exceptional circumstances related to

If you have Medicare, you can protect your identity and help prevent health care fraud by guarding your Medicare card like you would a credit card. Identity theft from stolen Medicare numbers is becoming more common. Medicare helped by removing Social Security numbers from Medicare cards and replacing them with a new, unique number for each person with Medicare. This decreases your vulnerability to medical and/or identity theft.

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Pima Council on Aging

Rights & Benefits Information

Tax breaks for older adults 2023 There are three types of tax programs for which you may be eligible:

• Income limitations **

o $36,077 for applicant, including spouse’s income and/or income of children over the age of 18 who reside in the home o $43,733 for applicant with dependent children under the age of 18 residing in the home o $43,733 for applicant with a disabled son or daughter over the age of 18 residing in the home (must be certified by a licensed Arizona medical authority as totally and permanently disabled) *These amounts are taxable income (non-taxable Social Security and Railroad Retirement are not included as taxable income) • The Assessed Value limitation is $29,418 Residential Property for each owner. • Applicants must have owned the subject property as of January 1 of the year you are filing for exemptions. • Applications made after October 1st, 2023, may only be eligible for a reduction to the second half of 2023 property taxes. • Additional restrictions may apply. Additional Qualifications for widows/widowers: • Spouse must have been an Arizona resident. • Spouse must not be separated or divorced at the time of death. • If remarried, the applicant cannot claim an exemption. Applicants must file in person at the Pima County Assessor’s Office between the first Monday in January through March 1st. Applications submitted after March 1st must be accompanied by a request for Waiver redemption. (continued on next page)

The Arizona Property Tax Refund Credit, also known as the 140PTC, may be filed if you meet the following criteria:

• Arizona resident for the entire year of 2022. • Age 65 by January 1, 2023 or a recipient of SSI. • Limited taxable household income (non-taxable Social Security and Railroad Retirement are not included as taxable income) • You paid property taxes and/or rent in 2022. Call PCOA Intake at (520) 790-7262 in Tucson for 140PTC forms, or to make an appointment for assistance in completing this form. THIS CREDIT IS PROVIDED BY THE ARIZONA STATE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE. This program is open from January until the tax filing deadline in April 2023. PCOA will be providing telephone appointments for assistance beginning February 1, 2023.

Qualifications for widow/widower and disability exemption applicants:

• The applicant must be a widow, widower, or 100% disabled. Veterans who are partially disabled can receive the percentage of the exemption for which they are determined to be disabled by the VA. • The applicant must be a permanent Arizona Resident. • The applicant must be over the age of 17.

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Pima Council on Aging

Rights & Benefits Information ALTCS Workshop

Tax breaks for older adults (continued from previous page) The Pima County Assessor Valuation Relief office is located at 240 N Stone Ave in the Pima County Public Service Building. You can call (520) 724-7500 for information on other locations that will be available during the filing period, or you can visit the website at www.asr.pima.gov. The Senior Property Valuation Freeze Option may be filed if you meet the following criteria: • At least one of the owners must be 65 years of age by September 1 of the current application year. • The property must be the primary residence of the taxpayer (primary residence is defined as “that residence which is occupied by the taxpayer for an aggregate of nine months of the calendar year”). A taxpayer can only have one primary residence. Rentals, mixed use properties, and properties over 10 acres do not qualify. • The owner must have lived and owned the home for at least two (2) years prior to applying for the option. • The household’s (owner/s and residents) total income from ALL sources, including non-taxable income, cannot exceed $43,872. The total income from ALL sources for two or more property owners cannot exceed $54,840 per the Arizona Department of Revenue. • The deadline for submitting the application is September 1, 2023. You will be notified by December 1, 2023 on the decision of your application. For further information, please visit our website at www.asr.pima. gov, or contact us at (520) 724-8630. 3

Learn about the Arizona Long Term Care System, including what it is, what it takes to be eligible for the program, and what kinds of services are available once a person becomes eligible. A great place to start when you are considering ALTCS for yourself, or for a loved one.

Please join us in person. Topic: ALTCS Workshop Time: February 9, 2:30 — 4 p.m. Location: The Katie , 600 S Country Club Rd

Participants are asked to socially distance themselves; masks are optional.

Space is limited; please register soon.

To register , go to: https://altcsfeb23.eventbrite.com, or call Donna DeLeon at 520.305.3450. Participants who would prefer a virtual training are invited to register for our March training held on Thursday, March 9, 2023. The ALTCS workshop is held every month on the second Thursday.

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Pima Council on Aging

Caregiving

Free training for informal, nonpaid family caregivers Caregiving Essentials: First Steps Training Schedule 2023

Fri., Feb. 17 Mon., Mar. 6

Wed., Apr. 19 Tue., May 16

600 S. Country Club Rd., Tucson If staying for both, bring your own lunch. Coffee and water available.

Workshop 1: Steps to Resilience (9 am – 12:30pm)

Workshop 2: Physical Care and Safety (1:00 – 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://caregivingessentials23.eventbrite.com or call Pima Council on Aging, 520.790.7573 ext. 1750; ddeleon@pcoa.org

For questions, call Kelley Hansen 520-790-7573 ext. 3413; khansen@pcoa.org For possible respite during training, call Arizona Caregiver Coalition 888.737.7494 or our Helpline 520-790-7262. This training does not provide certification or CEU’s for employment. *Classes are subject to change due to health precautions. See page 27 for details.

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Pima Council on Aging

Caregiving

PCOA CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS – FEBRUARY Five are currently being held by Zoom plus six in person.

Participation in the groups can be in person (6 groups), by telephone or by computer/tablet/smartphone w/ video. Support groups are a way to connect with others who are walking the journey of caregiving like you are. You get to SEE (if you use the video option) that you are not alone. You get to hear other’s challenges and successes, learn about helpful resources, know that your story matters and that you have been heard. Support groups are facilitated by a professional and are a safe place for you to express your concerns, frustrations, etc. and learn that others feel this way too. 2/16, 3rd Thursday, 1:30–3pm Virtual ON ZOOM 2/21, 3rd Tuesday , 9–10:30am Virtual ON ZOOM 2/23*, 4th Thursday, 1–2:30pm (Midtown) In Person * rescheduled from 2/20 2/27, 4th Monday, 11am–12:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM 2/28, 4th Tuesday , 9–10:30am (Southwest) In Person

To protect the confidentiality of the group sessions, access information will only be given to registered participants. Emails are sent out on Fridays with updated schedules and additional information. If you participated in the groups before COVID, and have not been receiving the emails, please check your junk or spam folder. To RSVP or if you have any questions, please contact: Tonetta Clay, Support Group Facilitator 520-305-3405, tclay@pcoa.org 2/2, 1st Thursday, 1–2:30pm Virtual ON ZOOM 2/6, 1st Monday , 1–2:30pm (East) In Person 2/7, 1st Tuesday , 12–1:30pm (Oro Valley) In Person 2/9, 2nd Thursday , 1–2:30pm (East) In Person 2/13, 2nd Monday , 1–2:30pm (Green Valley) In Person 2/14, 2nd Tuesday, 5:30–7pm Virtual ON ZOOM

FEBRUARY

“In the coldest February, as in every other month in every other year, the best thing to hold on to in this world is each other.” — Linda Ellerbee

*NOTE: There will be no meetings on days where holidays are observed PLEASE RSVP for all groups. At all in person meetings we continue to social distance and mask wearing is optional. To RSVP or if you have any questions, please contact: Tonetta Clay, Support Group Facilitator 520-305-3405, tclay@pcoa.org

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Pima Council on Aging

Information

my Social Security: It’s Not Just for Retirees

ANNIVERSARY 36 th

Do you know someone who has been on this earth 100 years?

You don’t have to be retired or even close to retirement to benefit from a personal my Social Security (https://www. ssa.gov/myaccount/) account. Calling or visiting a local Social Security office probably is rarely necessary once you have one. You can do much of your business with us online. With your personal my Social Security account, you can: • Request a replacement Social Security card (in most states and the District of Columbia). • Estimate your future benefits to compare different dates or ages to begin receiving benefits. • Check the status of your Social Security application when you do decide to apply. • Review your work history. If you already receive benefits, you can also: • Request a replacement Social Security card (in most states and the District of Columbia). • Get a benefit verification or proof of income letter. • Set up or change your direct deposit.

Salute to Centenarians with our annual

• Change your address. • Request a replacement Medicare card. • Get a Social Security 1099 form (SSA-1099). • Opt out of receiving certain notices by mail and receive them in the secure Message Center.

Call TMC for Seniors at (520) 324-1960 (520) 324-1960 or email SeniorServices@tmcaz.com, to submit the individual’s name by Friday, March 3, 2023.

Please help us spread the word. Let your family and friends know that they can create a my Social Security account today.

For local citizens age 99 and over

We look forward to documenting and sharing their stories in our commemorative tribute book.

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Pima Council on Aging

PCOA Community Lunch Program

Do You Know... • Someone who could benefit from a lunch program that also provides an opportunity to make new friends. Let’s face it, eating alone, at home, is no fun. • These programs are typically open from Monday – Friday (except as noted and holidays) from 9:00 a.m. to approximately 1pm. • There are fun activities available during these hours. Depending on the site, activities include games, movies, crafts and even field trips. • A transportation subsidy may be available to get someone to these lunch programs. Transportation is provided via Sun Van, to individuals with disabilities with a current ADA Eligibility Card issued by the City of Tucson. • That these lunch programs are open to all individuals 60 and older and their spouse regardless of age. Once you register at a meal site, you will be required to reserve your meals each week. That way, we know you’re coming and your lunch is waiting for you. A suggested donation of $2–$3 is requested. Community Center Lunches are a program of the Pima Council on Aging in collaboration with sub-contracted agencies: Catholic Community Services, and the City of Tucson Parks & Recreation Department. Have Lunch and Make a Friend

Check it out here: https://pcoa.org/ways-we-help/ meals-nutrition.html/ Click on “View Monthly Menu” This Month’s Menu

COMMUNITY LUNCH CENTERS NEAR YOU

Ajo Community

290 W. Fifth St., Ajo 85321

520-387-5040 520-791-4353 520-791-4070 520-889-0928 520-837-8210 520-887-9786 520-791-4969 520-791-3247 520-791-2509 520-485-7413 520-791-5787

Archer Neighborhood Armory Park Senior *

1665 S. La Cholla Blvd., Tucson 85713 220 S. 5th Ave., Tucson 85701 101 W. Irvington Rd., Tucson 85714 1390 W. Speedway Blvd., Tucson 85705 1660 W. Ruthrauff Rd., Tucson 85705

El Pueblo Neighborhood Center El Rio Neighborhood Center

Ellie Towne/Flowing Wells Community Center **

Freedom Recreation Center

5000 E. 29th St., Tucson 85711 2160 N. 6th Ave., Tucson 85705

Donna Liggins Center

780 S. Park Centre Ave., Green Valley 85614 520-393-6814

Posada Life Community Center Quincie Douglas Senior Center

1575 E. 36th St., Tucson 85713

Saguaro Christian Church William Clements Center

8302 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson 85710 8155 E. Poinciana Dr., Tucson 85730

Please call in advance to reserve a meal and for days and hours of operation. Funded by: Federal Older Americans Act through AZ DES/DAAS, United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, City of Tucson, and Individual Contributions * Dinner meal only ** Open Mon., Wed., Fri.

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Pima Council on Aging

Healthy Living

Healthy Living with Chronic Pain, offered in person February 27, March 6, 13, 20, 27, April 3 Mondays, 1:30 – 3:30 pm The Katie , 600 S. Country Club Rd. Contribution Fee: $30 (covers your book & supplies)

Are you looking for ways to live and age well? Practice with purpose

EnhanceFitness®

Our current schedule for EnhanceFitness® classes (1 hour class) is: Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays • Randolph Recreation Center, 200 S. Alvernon Way, Bldg. 1 , 9–10 am • El Rio Center, 1390 W. Speedway Blvd. , 11am–12 pm • Clements Regional Ctr., Fitness Center , 8155 E. Poinciana Dr. , 8:30–9:30 am • Udall Park, Carol West Senior Center, 7222 E Tanque Verde Rd. , 11 am–12 pm • The Katie , 600 S. Country Club, and Remote , 10:30 to 11:30 Pre-registration is required through Eventbrite (located on the PCOA homepage), https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/enhancefitness-classes-176939 . Class size is limited. For assistance, call us at (520) 305-3410. • Tucson Estates (TENHN), 5900 W Western Way Circle , 10:30–11:30 am Mondays – Recreation Hall, Wednesdays & Fridays Multi-Purpose Hall Contribution: $36 per person/per month

A Matter of Balance®

Healthy Living with Chronic Pain®

The Healthy Living suite of classes covers things like the cause of falls and how to prevent them, strategies to bolster physical fitness and balance, as well as other ways to empower older adults to keep themselves safe and healthy.

Picture Rocks Community Center 5615 North Sanders Rd. Mon., Wed., Fri., 11:45 am –12:45 pm Drexel Heights Community Center 5220 South San Joaquin Ave. Mon., Wed., Fri., 12–1 pm Ellie Towne/Flowing Wells** Community Center, 1660 W Ruthrauff Rd. Mon., Wed., Fri., 10:30–11:30 am

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. **There are no classes in Feb.

(520) 305-3410 healthyliving.pcoa.org Small steps. Positive changes. Healthier living.

February 2023, Never Too Late | Page 13

Pima Council on Aging

Looking for Volun

Healthy Living

A Matter of Balance® offered in person

Tucson Estates (Multi-Purpose Hall) 5900 W. Western Way Cir. Jan. 31, Feb. 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23 Tuesdays & Thursdays 1:30 – 3:30 pm

Udall Park 7222 E. Tanque Verde Rd. February 6, 8, 13, 15, 22, 27, March 1, 6 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Mondays & Wednesdays, 10 am – 12 pm

The Katie, PCOA Healthy Aging Center, 600 S. Country Club Rd., Fitness Rm.

Pima Council on Aging This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. Classes are free and held twice a week for 4 weeks for 2 hours each. Participants learn to: · view falls as controllable · set goals for increasing activity · make changes to reduce fall risks at home · exercise to increase strength and balance A Matter of Balance® Chances are you know someone who has fallen or has a fear of falling. A Matter of Balance is a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity. PCOA is looking for volunteers to help offer this program. Training is provided. AMatter o Chances are you know someone who h A Matter of Balance is a proven progra concerns about falls and increase phys Adult Falls Coalition is looking for v program. Free training provided. Looking for Volunteer Coaches! For more information and to register for an upcoming training, contact Jennifer Cain, jcain@pcoa.org or call 520.790-7573, ext. 3411.

March 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1 – 3 pm

Contribution: $30.00 (covers your book and supplies)

A Matter of Balance® is a a workshop designed to reduce the fear of falling and help participants learn to view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activity and make changes to reduce fall risks at home. It includes 8 two-hour sessions for 10-15 participants and is led by trained coaches.

For more information and to register, contact Jennie at (520) 305-3410.

Page 14 | February 2023, Never Too Late

Healthy Living

The Aging Mastery Program (AMP) classes in person Tuesdays, February 14 – April 18, 2023, 1:30 – 3:00 pm* • Navigating Longer Lives • Exercise and You • Sleep The Aging Mastery Program (AMP) classes will explore: ® • Financial Fitness • Healthy Relationships • Advance Planning ®

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

A comprehensive approach to aging well. The program combines classes with expert speakers, group discussion and goal setting to help you gain new skills to make small meaningful changes in your life. Registration is payable in advance for all 10 weeks of the program. Limited spots available: Sign up now! Fee: $89/person if registered and paid by Tues., January 31. After Jan. 31, fee is $99/person Registration and Fee (payable in advance) by Tuesday, January 31, 2023 (No refunds after Tues., January 31, 2023 ) Location: Offered in person at The Katie PCOA Healthy Aging Center (TEP Room), 600 S Country Club Rd

*Classes are subject to change due to health precautions.

Join the adventure!

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

February 2023, Never Too Late | Page 15

Pima Council on Aging

Healthy Living A healthy lifestyle may help former smokers lower their risk of death

Healthy lifestyle recommendations include maintaining a healthy body weight, being physically active, eating a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol consumption. Former smokers who stick to a healthy lifestyle have a lower risk of dying from all causes than those who don’t engage in healthy habits, according to a new study by researchers at NCIExit Disclaimer, part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The reduced risk of dying was observed for specific causes, including cancer and heart and lung diseases. Lifestyle interventions have not been robustly studied in former smokers, and these new findings could have important implications for the 52 million former smokers in the United States. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—defined as doing things such as being physically active and having a healthy diet—was associated with a 27% reduction in the risk of death over the 19-year follow-up period, compared with not maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The findings, which appeared Sept. 22, 2022, in JAMA Network Open, come from an analysis of a large group of former smokers who participated in the NIH- AARP Diet and Health Study. “I was surprised to see the robust associations [with lifestyle],” said Maki Inoue-Choi, Ph.D., of the Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics at NCI, lead author of the paper. “Former smokers who adhered to evidence-based recommendations for body weight, diet, physical activity, and alcohol intake had a lower risk of mortality than former smokers who didn't adhere to these recommendations.” Quitting smoking is well known to have many health benefits, but former smokers still have a higher risk of disease and

premature death than people who have never smoked. Past studies have suggested that people who follow healthy lifestyle recommendations, such as maintaining a healthy body weight, being physically active, eating a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol consumption, may have a lower risk of disease and death. However, few studies have looked at the benefit of such adherence among former smokers. The current analysis included 159,937 former smokers who had completed questionnaires asking about lifestyle, demographics, and other health-related information between 1995 and 1996 when they joined the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study. The participants, whose average age at study entry was 62.6 years, were followed for approximately 19 years. During the follow-up period, which extended through 2019, 86,127 participants died. Death information, including cause of death, came from the National Death Index. For each participant, the researchers calculated a total adherence score ranging from no adherence to full adherence. The total adherence score incorporated individual scores for body mass index, based on guidelines from the World Health Organization; for dietary quality, based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010-2015; for physical activity, based on the second edition of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans; and for alcohol use, based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. Former smokers who had the highest total adherence scores had a 27% lower risk of death from any cause than those with the lowest scores. In addition, participants with the highest scores had a 24% reduction in risk of death from

cancer, 28% reduction in risk of death from cardiovascular disease, and 30% reduction in risk of death from respiratory disease. The reductions in risk of death were observed regardless of health status, other health conditions, how many cigarettes participants used to smoke per day, years since they quit, and age they began smoking. The researchers also evaluated the benefit from adherence for individual lifestyle recommendations. In each case, people with the highest score had a lower risk of death than those with the lowest score: 17% lower for physical activity, 14% lower for body weight, 9% lower for diet quality, and 4% lower for alcohol intake. “To have the greatest benefit, it is better to adhere to many lifestyle recommendations,” Dr. Inoue-Choi noted. “But even those who adopted just a single lifestyle recommendation experienced benefits.” The researchers cautioned that studies based on self-reported data can only show associations, not establish cause and effect. Although the researchers controlled for many factors that could have confounded the associations, they said they cannot rule out the possibility that other factors may have affected the associations they observed. The researchers also noted that more studies are needed to explore the associations between adhering to lifestyle recommendations and risk of death among former smokers in more diverse populations. “The NIH-AARP study is a predominantly White population with relatively high socioeconomic status,” Dr. Inoue-Choi said. “These research questions need to be extended to other populations.”

Page 16 | February 2023, Never Too Late

Pima Council on Aging

Healthy Minds for Life A Message from Lee Ryan, Professor and Head of the Psychology Department at the University of Arizona Healthy Minds for Life Memory problems are a common don’t know how to truly prevent memory loss, at least not yet. There are things we can do, however, that seem to decrease

occurrence for many people in their 70’s and beyond. In fact, it’s estimated that one in three older adults experience difficulty with their memory on a regular basis. Normal age-related memory changes aren’t like the severe, debilitating loss of memory function that is experienced by a person living with Alzheimer’s disease. These are more subtle ‘memory slips’ that happen throughout our lives, but as we get older, they become more frequent. They’re little annoying things, like forgetting where you put your glasses, or where you parked the car. For most people, age-related memory changes are relatively mild. However, for some people, memory loss can become sufficiently serious that it begins to interfere with the quality of their daily lives. Some people may forget to take their medications on a regular basis, or forget whether they paid the electric bill. Of course, many people devise clever ways to cope with memory changes – we might adopt a strategy like writing post-it notes or to-do lists as reminders for our daily tasks. One person I know sets her medication right beside her glasses on the night stand before she goes to bed. When she gets up in the morning, she puts her glasses on and then immediately reaches for her pills. For her, it’s a surefire way to remember to take her medication every day. I’m often asked if age-related memory problems can be prevented through lifestyle choices like diet and exercise. I wish it were true, but sadly, we really

the risk of experiencing memory loss as we age. And, as a bonus, many of these same things may also decrease the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Collectively, these can be summed up as “good for the heart, good for the brain”. Maintaining heart health helps to maintain brain health, and may also decrease risk for Alzheimer’s disease. The Mediterranean diet is one lifestyle choice that has been shown through scientific studies to have multiple health benefits. It’s associated with lower risk for cardiovascular disease, lower risk for certain types of cancers, and an overall lower mortality rate. Interestingly, in 2006, researchers at Columbia University (Scarmeas et al., 2006) found evidence that adherence to the diet over a ten year period was associated with a substantial decrease in risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. The good news is that this isn’t some restrictive diet that leaves you hungry and grumpy! Many people would simply call the Mediterranean diet ‘healthy’ – lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and legumes, and oily fish like salmon and sardines. Healthy unsaturated fats are included too – especially olive oil and avocado – as well as a moderate amount of dairy, particularly from hard cheeses like parmesan. But the diet is low in red meats, poultry, and saturated fats. Many of the foods included in the diet have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, such as colorful vegetables,

beans and legumes, nuts and seeds, and garlic, which may be the reason we see these health benefits. If there’s one ‘rule’ that will get you immediately closer to eating Mediterranean style, it’s this: Eat by the rainbow . Include fruits and vegetables of all colors in your daily meals – yellow, purple, green, red, and orange. Your heart and your brain will thank you. Diet is just one of the many factors that researchers at the University of Arizona’s Precision Aging Network are considering, as we explore new ways to prevent and treat age-related memory impairment. If you’d like to hear more about our studies, or if you’d be interested in participating, send us an email at healthymindsforlife@ email.arizona.edu. We’ll tell you about some great opportunities to get involved. I’ll look forward to hearing from you! Lee Ryan is a Professor and Head of the Psychology Department at the University of Arizona. She is a researcher studying aging and Alzheimer’s disease, and is a member of the Precision Aging Network. To learn more about the Precision Aging Network, visit our website at https:// precisionagingnetwork.org/.

February 2023, Never Too Late | Page 17

Pima Council on Aging

PCOA Puzzle

February Puzzle

52 Comedians 54 Drugs (Abbr.) 55 Threat to fighters 56 Alan Ladd gunfighter role 58 Loopy

59 D-Day beach 60 Main artery 61 Piece for two 62 "Time --- My Side" (The Rolling Stones) 63 Awesome 64 Stack 65 Fix Down 1 Mental ability 2 Bury the hatchet 3 Director/producer --- Stone 4 Kind of rummy 5 Small seedless raisin 6 Foe 7 Drinks slowly 8 Corner consoles? 9 Operation mementos 10 Decide with a coin 11 Pure 12 Plan sponsored by Sen. William Roth 13 Family guy 21 Spanish farewell 22 Stable food 24 Californian pine 25 Vavavoom 27 Block 28 Ordure 30 Lower abdomen 31 Pantry

Answers: following page 51 German philosopher 53 Cosmopolitan (Abbr.) 54 Second-largest Hawaiian island 56 Nordic airline 57 By what means? 58 National economic indicator 59 Actor --- Carrey 33 Ensnares 35 Hairless 36 Keen 37 Computer code 39 Attendees 41 Low sounds? 42 Out with a potential partner 46 Neglect 47 Pressurize 48 Comet finder --- Halley 50 Bargain

Across 1 Urban air pollution problem 5 That's in Paris 9 Prim

29 Ankle injury 30 Parking area 31 Doozie 32 Undersides 34 2,000 lbs 35 Foundation 38 Tear 39 Shorthand inventor John Robert --- 40 --- calling! 41 Maturity 43 Stiff sentence 44 Missions (Abbr.) 45 Goad

14 Formerly French Sudan 15 E.g. Rice, Harvard (Abbr.) 16 Snake vulnerable to the mongoose

17 Not dissimilar 18 Salespeople 19 Syrian dynasty 20 Padre (Abbr.)

21 Prepares for war 22 Roughly speaking 23 Traditional voting day 25 West Atlantic international grp. 26 Flat panel TV type

49 Banned insecticide 50 Distress message 51 Chivvied

Page 18 | February 2023, Never Too Late

Pima Council on Aging

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February 2023, Never Too Late | Page 19

Pima Council on Aging

Nunca Es Demasiado Tarde

Columna de opinión: La planificación anticipada facilita los cambios de vida en adultos mayores Por Judith B. Clinco (enfermera registrada).

¿Ha preparado sus voluntades anticipadas? ¿Hay personas que saben dónde se encuentra el documento? ¿Ha logrado dominar la tecnología para recibir entregas a domicilio, solicitar transporte, hacer video llamadas, etc.? Planear con anticipación tiene otros aspectos positivos, ya que todo puede pasar. Con una caída, un accidente, un diagnóstico inoportuno o la pérdida de su cónyuge, de pronto se encontraría en situación de crisis, la peor situación posible para tener que tomar decisiones. Con todo esto, es fácil terminar agobiado (y tentado a procrastinar). Pero la planificación por adelantado no es algo que tenga que hacer usted solo; le rodea una comunidad que está lista para ayudar. Una buena forma de empezar es hablando con expertos en su agencia local sobre el envejecimiento. Usted puede hablar de todo; no hay nada que no hayan escuchado antes. Otra opción inteligente es entrevistarse con fiduciarios certificados. Un buen antídoto contra el estrés es identificar con anticipación a un administrador de su dinero que sea de su entera confianza. Y quizás lo más importante: ¡Hable con su familia! ¡Empiece a platicar con sus vecinos y amigos! No hay necesidad de revelar información confidencial, financiera o médica, pero, tanto ellos como usted, tendrán la certeza de que usted piensa a futuro. Usted tal vez ya esté visualizando cómo será su futuro. Cuando ya haya hecho su tarea, ya podrá viajar en ese crucero. Lo disfrutará mucho más sin la carga de ansiedad por los pendientes sin resolver.

gastará su dinero, sus decisiones de salud, entre otras. El otro camino es la planificación por adelantado. No es tan divertido como planificar un viaje en crucero, pero en términos de su futura calidad de vida, es mucho más importante. Para que quede claro, no me refiero a que tenga que preparar un testamento. Eso es una parte importante del proceso de planificación, pero la relevancia del testamento radica principalmente después de la muerte. Me refiero a cómo se harán las cosas en vida. La mayoría de las personas quieren envejecer en casa. Aunque generalmente es la mejor opción, esto implica muchos factores que pudieran cambiar. ¿Su casa es un lugar seguro para alguien con problemas de movilidad (considerando escaleras, riesgos de caídas, barras sujetadoras en el baño, detectores de humo)? ¿Necesitará de un cuidador? De ser así, ¿quién será? ¿Un familiar? ¿Alguien de una agencia de cuidados domésticos? ¿Pudiera compartir su casa con adultos mayores más jóvenes o con un estudiante universitario, compartir casa gratis a cambio de apoyo y compañía? ¿Se mudaría a una comunidad de retiro que ofrece atención constante? Otro factor importante de la mudanza es el recurso necesario. ¿Cuenta usted con seguro que cubra el cuidado a largo plazo? ¿Cuenta con pocos ahorros o con un ingresos constante y suficiente? ¿Ha pensado en la posibilidad de construir una pequeña habitación en su patio trasero para usted o para su cuidador o vive en una casa de renta?

Fundadora y presidenta de Catalina In- Home Servicies, Inc. en Tucson; fundadora del CareGiver Training Institute. Publicado en The Arizona Daily Star el lunes 10 de enero de 2023. Reproducido con autorización. Opinión y análisis personal de la autora: Esta es la temporada de los propósitos. Me permito sugerir uno que pudiera impactar su vida de manera profunda hoy y a futuro. Si se encuentra en ese momento alegre de su vida, ya sea porque está jubilado, pero recibe cada día con energía y entusiasmo, es un excelente momento para poner en orden su futuro. ¿Pero por qué ahora? Porque, seamos honestos, nadie es invencible. Si tiene suerte, puede tener una larga vida, sana y alegre. Pero la esperanza (o la suerte) no es un plan; el tiempo nos llega a todos de una forma u otra. ¿Por qué no invertir parte de esa energía y entusiasmo del que ahora goza para planificar un estilo de vida a futuro que tal vez no sea tan firme? Como dijo Yogi Berra, al llegar a una encrucijada, sigan adelante. Muy buen consejo (aunque quedan muchas dudas). Uno de los caminos en la encrucijada es la procrastinación. Esto lleva a situaciones en las que otras personas decidirán por usted: cómo y dónde vivirá, cómo se

Page 20 | February 2023, Never Too Late

Pima Council on Aging

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