Publication of Pima Council on Aging, Helping Pima County Age Well Since 1967
Never Too Late Healthy Aging & Falls Prevention, Medicare Open Enrollment Months Para información en Español ver páginas 31 – 32.
Sept./Oct. 2024 What’s News • Aging in Our Community • Community Lunch Program • Dementia Capable SoAZ • Healthy Minds for Life • Medicare & SMP Updates • Rights & Benefits • Caregiving • Falls Prevention Awareness • Healthy Living: Classes • Ending Life Well • PCOA Puzzle • Visibility Matters • Advocacy • Neighbors Care Alliance • CareGiver Training Institute • PimaCare at Home
PUBLICATION OF PIMA COUNCIL ON AGING, HELPING PIMA COUNTY AGE WELL SINCE 1967
Independence. Vitality. Respect.
Inside • Aging in Our Community 3 • Philanthropy 4 • Community Lunch Program 6 • Dementia Capable Southern Arizona Classes 7-9 • Healthy Minds for Life 10 • Medicare Corner & Senior Medicare Patrol 11-13 • ALTCS Workshop & Social Security Updates 14-15 • Caregiving 17-19
• Ending Life Well 20 • Falls Prevention Awareness Month 21-25 • Healthy Living 26-28 • PCOA Puzzle 29-30 • Nunca Es Demasiado Tarde 31-32 • Visibility Matters 33 • Advocacy 34 • Neighbors Care Alliance 35-36 • Featured Artist 37 • CareGiver Training Institute (CGTI) 38 • PimaCare at Home (PCAH) 39
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 2024. Editor Adina Wingate, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5067 awingate@pcoa.org Editorial Assistant Jan Slonaker, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5076 jslonaker@pcoa.org Advertising Adina Wingate, (520) 790-7573 ext. 5067 awingate@pcoa.org Design Consultant Lori Lieber, Lori Lieber Graphic Design lori@lorilieber.com Editorial and Advertising Deadline for Next Bi-Monthly Issue OCTOBER 2, 2024 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.
On the Cover: Detail from Escape, Acrylic on Canvas by Sharon Hass, The Drawing Studio. (Story and full image on inside back cover.) Connect With Us The best way to access our services is by calling our Helpline between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at (520) 790-7262 or emailing help@pcoa.org. • Our 8467 E. Broadway Blvd. building is open for those requiring in-person assistance. • Our 600 S. Country Club Rd. building is open for those requiring in- person assistance.
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Read Never Too Late online at nevertoolate.pcoa.org.
Page 2 | September/October 2024, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Aging in Our Community A Message from W. Mark Clark, President and CEO
Dear Friends, Reflecting on my journey with PCOA, I am deeply grateful for our community’s impact on older adults across Southern Arizona. This edition of Never Too Late emphasizes Healthy Aging and Medicare Open Enrollment, underscoring our commitment to supporting individuals as they age with dignity and independence. Navigating Medicare Options Navigating Medicare options can be overwhelming, with numerous plans available, each with its complexities. Our Medicare program stands out by providing unbiased guidance. Unlike other services that may steer you toward specific plans, our staff and volunteer counselors are dedicated solely to helping you navigate your options and make informed decisions—free of charge. Whether you are exploring Medicare Advantage plans or evaluating prescription drug coverage, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and support needed to select the plan that best fits your individual health needs. Mental and Social Well-being At PCOA, we recognize that healthy aging encompasses more than just physical health—it includes mental and social well-being. Our programs promote holistic wellness among older adults. Our Healthy Living classes focus on managing personal health, staying fit, and improving quality of life. We offer several evidence- based personal health promotion programs for adults 60 years and older. For instance, our EnhanceFitness program offers multiple sessions each month across Pima County, enhancing mobility and strength, led by certified instructors who
quality and promotes the mental health and social well-being of caregivers. Community Partnerships The positive impact of these initiatives within our community is profound. Through partnerships with other community organizations, PCOA continues to expand access to even more critical resources, reaching more individuals who can benefit from our comprehensive approach to healthy aging. Looking ahead, I am inspired by the dedication of our staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners who are integral to our success. Together, we have achieved significant milestones that have expanded our outreach and enriched our services. Your support—whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness about our mission—continues to propel us forward. As we anticipate the future, I am confident in PCOA’s ability to change and innovate in response to the evolving needs of older adults and their families. I extend my sincere appreciation for your steadfast support and commitment to our mission. Together, we are building a community where aging is celebrated as a journey of growth and opportunity. For more information about our programs and services, please visit our website at www. PCOA.org. Warm regards,
understand the unique needs of older adults. Participants improve their physical health and build camaraderie and a sense of community. If you or someone you know has concerns about falling, ongoing health conditions, chronic pain, or diabetes, our Healthy Living Department provides tools, techniques, and classes to increase self-confidence and gain invaluable knowledge for managing these issues. PCOA’s commitment to healthy aging extends to mental well-being through our memory screening program. If you have concerns about memory for yourself or a loved one, our Options Counselors are here to help. By calling our Helpline at (520) 790-7262 or completing a referral form, you can access a brief screening tool. Based on the screening results, our counselors will work with you and your family to create a person-centered plan that includes general information, resources, and referrals as needed. They also provide dementia education and support for symptom management, ensuring a comprehensive approach to independence and cognitive health. Role of Caregivers Additionally, PCOA recognizes the critical role caregivers play in the well-being of older adults. We offer resources designed to support caregivers, including our How to be a Resilient Caregiver handbook with helpful information for those stepping into this role. Caregivers often neglect their own health and well-being while caring for others, leading to burnout and stress. Our caregiver support groups provide an outlet for caregivers to share experiences, receive emotional support, and access resources to help navigate challenges. This holistic approach enhances care
W. Mark Clark President and CEO Pima Council on Aging (PCOA)
September/October 2024, Never Too Late | Page 3
Pima Council on Aging
Philanthropy
Real-Life Impact of Small and Recurring Donations One of the most heartwarming examples of small donations making a big impact at PCOA is PCOA's Emergency Fund, which assists older adults in crisis situations. Whether it’s helping with unexpected medical expenses, housing repairs, or essential utilities, small donations to this fund have provided timely and crucial support to countless older adults. The steady flow of monthly donations allows PCOA to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, providing a safety net for the community’s most vulnerable members. In helping others, it’s the collective effort that makes the difference. Small donations, when combined, create a powerful force for good. By embracing recurring monthly giving, you can make helping others a part of your routine, contributing to sustained change and lasting impact. Remember, every dollar counts, and together, we can achieve remarkable things. Whether it’s a one- time gift or a monthly contribution, your support matters and makes a real difference. Making Monthly Giving Easy and Personal For many, the idea of committing to a recurring donation might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few ways to make it more approachable: 1. Start Small: Begin with an amount that feels comfortable. Even $5 a month can add up to a significant contribution over time. 2. Connect with the Cause: Think of your monthly donation as a way to continually support a cause close to your heart. It’s a way to stay engaged and make a lasting difference in the lives of older adults.
The Power of Small Donations: How Every Dollar Counts In a time where big donations often steal the spotlight, it’s easy to underestimate the power of small donations. However, when it comes to helping others, every dollar truly counts. Small contributions, when pooled together, can lead to big changes. Consider Pima Council on Aging’s (PCOA) Meals on Wheels program. Providing meals for homebound older adults might seem expensive, but breaking it down reveals a different story. If 500 people each donate $10, that's $5,000—a substantial amount that can cover the cost of meals for older adults for several weeks. This ensures they receive nutritious meals and a friendly visit, greatly enhancing their quality of life. The Ease of Recurring Monthly Giving One of the most effective ways to use small donations is through recurring monthly giving. This approach is particularly helpful because it provides steady support, allowing PCOA to plan and run our programs with greater certainty. Moreover, it makes giving more accessible to individuals who may feel that their occasional contributions are too small to make a difference. Imagine committing to a monthly donation of just $10 to PCOA. Over a year, that’s $120—enough to fund various initiatives, from providing emergency home repairs for older adults to supporting caregiver training programs. When hundreds or thousands of people make this same commitment, the combined effect is transformative.
3. Set it and Forget it:
PCOA offers automated payment options, making it easy to set up a recurring donation without having to
remember each month. Visit pcoa.org/how-you- can-help/donate and click the box next to “Show my support by making this a recurring donation.” 4. Stay Connected: At PCOA, we believe in maintaining a strong relationship with our donors. We are committed to keeping you updated on how your donations are making a difference. Through regular updates, stories, and reports, we’ll show you the real impact of your generosity.
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Pima Council on Aging
Information
More effective care through preventive screenings. Even the most expensive lab tests are a bargain compared to the costs of treating a major illness. That’s why we screen our members regularly to catch small problems early on. It’s just one of the many ways we help you live your best life, better. The most costly tests are the tests you don’t run.
Visit ArchWellHealth.com or call (520) 613-0005 today to learn more.
Primary Care for Tucsonans Age 60+
ADVERTISEMENT
September/October 2024, Never Too Late | Page 5
Pima Council on Aging
PCOA Community Lunch Program
NO MORE PARTY OF ONE Tired of dining alone? Want to get out of the house and enjoy a satisfying lunch while making friends?
PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED Please call for mealtimes, to reserve a meal, and for days and hours of operations. Ajo Community Center 290 W. Fifth St., Ajo (520) 387-5040 Armory Park Senior Center (Dinner Only) 220 S. 5th Ave., Tucson (520) 791-4070 Casa De Encanto 250 N. Silverbell Rd., Tucson (602) 831-1643 Donna Liggins Center 2160 N. 6th Ave., Tucson (520) 791-3247 El Pueblo Neighborhood Center 101 W. Irvington Rd., Tucson (520) 889-0928 El Rio Neighborhood Center 1390 W. Speedway Blvd., Tucson (520) 837-8210 Ellie Towne/Flowing Fred Archer Center 1665 S. La Cholla Blvd., Tucson (520) 791-4353 Freedom Park Center 5000 E. 29th St., Tucson (520) 791-4969 Posada Life Community Center 780 S. Park Centre Ave., Green Valley (520) 393-6814 Quincie Douglas Center 1575 E. 36th St., Tucson (520) 791-2507 Saguaro Senior Meals Program 8302 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson (520) 485-7413 William M. Clements Center 8155 E. Poinciana Dr., Tucson (520) 791-5787
COMMUNITY LUNCHES will fit the bill, a bill between $2 TO $3 A MEAL!
13 Community Lunch sites in metro Tucson, Ajo, and Green Valley
Invite a friend! Community Lunch programs provide delicious, healthy meals for adults 60 years and older in a friendly environment filled with social engagement, learning, and opportunities to volunteer. Enjoy activities such as games, presentations, entertainment, and exercise. A suggested donation of $2 to $3 per meal and $8 per meal for guests not eligible for the program is appreciated.
Wells Community Center (Open Mon., Wed., Fri.) 1660 W. Ruthrauff Rd., Tucson (520) 887-9786
FIND ONE NEAR YOU
FOR MORE INFORMATION Please visit pcoa.org/ways-we-help/meals-nutrition.html or call the PCOA Helpline at (520) 790-7262.
Page 6 | September/October 2024, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Dementia Capable Southern Arizona
Healthy Aging When you hear the words “healthy aging,” what comes to mind? What about the health of your mind? Taking care of our brain health is as important as taking care of our physical health. There is also a huge overlap between what is good for our physical health and what is good for our brain health.
Memory Cafés in Pima County
We are excited to announce a new café! Midtown Memory Café hosted by JFCS of Southern Arizona. September 13 and October 11, 2024 2nd Friday of each month 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Location: JFCS Tucson 4301 E 5th St. Tucson, AZ 85711 Point of contact Alison Wood To register , visit Midtown Memory Cafe | JFCS of Southern Arizona - https://jfcstucson.org/event/midtown- memory-cafe/all/. For a list of all the Memory Cafés available in Pima County visit - https://pcoa.org/ways-we-help/ memory-cafes.html/. (520) 795-0300 x2248 or awood@jfcstucson.org. Registration is encouraged.
Engaging in regular physical activity, getting enough high-quality sleep, not smoking, and eating a heart-healthy diet are all great for the healthy aging of your body. These same habits are also great for the healthy aging of your brain and help to reduce the risk of developing dementia. Physical activity such as walking, swimming, dancing, gardening, and housework have all been shown to reduce the risk of dementia. For those living with dementia, healthy habits are still important and can help to slow the progression of some symptoms and manage common challenges. There is a direct connection between our physical health and our cognitive health. Regular doctor visits to monitor your blood pressure, sugar, weight, cholesterol, and vitamin levels are just as important to your brain’s health as they are to your body’s health. Making healthy aging a priority is an investment that can pay off in many areas of your life.
Falls Prevention Did you know?
Compared to older adults without dementia, older adults living with dementia have an increased risk of falling as well as an increased risk of serious injuries with falls. Here are a few tips to help reduce the fall risk of someone living with dementia: • Ensure sufficient lighting in all areas • Provide color contrast to clearly distinguish between items/areas
• Declutter rooms and have clear pathways • Use adaptive equipment and mobility aids • Ensure safe, well-fitted, non-slip footwear
September/October 2024, Never Too Late | Page 7
Pima Council on Aging
Dementia Capable Southern Arizona Dementia Care Partner Support Group An ongoing program partnership Memory Concerns?
between Alzheimer’s Association and Dementia Capable Southern Arizona This group can help provide social connection, encourage development of coping methods and maintenance of personal, physical, and emotional health as well as optimal care for the
person living with dementia. 4th Tuesday of each month 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 600 S. Country Club Rd.
DCSA offers walk-in hours at both PCOA offices. We provide free memory screenings, information, resources, and more! Walk-in hours: The Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center 600 S. Country Club Rd. Mondays 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. The Marian Lupu Building 8467 E. Broadway Blvd. Thursdays 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. To schedule an appointment outside of these hours, visit dcsa.pcoa.org or call (520) 790-7262.
Registration is not required. For information or questions, please contact Nicole Thomas at (520) 790-7573 x1739 or nthomas@pcoa.org.
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Pima Council on Aging
Dementia Capable Southern Arizona
Training Online (Zoom) Dementia Capable Southern Arizona Classes: September – December
In Person Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center (600 S. Country Club)
Dementia Friends Information Session Gain a general understanding of dementia with a focus on adopting a mindset of creating a dementia-friendly community. This presentation is appropriate for all community members ages 13+. Dementia Friends with Special Emphasis on Faith Communities Dementia Friends with Special Emphasis on Preparing for the Holidays Sesión informative de Dementia Friends (Español) (Dementia Friends Information Session (Spanish)) Es hora de cambiar la forma en que las personas piensan, actúan, y hablan sobre la demencia. Esta presentación es apropriada para todos los miembros de la comunidad de 13 años. Dementia Champions Training Already a Dementia Friend? Become a Dementia Champion and present Dementia Friends Information Sessions to your community. Dementia 101 Learn more about what dementia is and how it effects individuals, families, and communities. Understand common signs of dementia and how to approach memory concerns. Memory Loss: Progressions, Behaviors, and Interventions Part 1 Dive into the progression of dementia, the brain changes that occur, and care tips. This presentation is designed for family members and other caregivers. Memory Loss: Progressions, Behaviors, and Interventions Part 2 Take a deeper dive looking at caregiver strategies, common challenges, and approaches to caring for someone with dementia. This presentation is designed for family members and other caregivers.
Monday, November 4 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
N/A
Friday, September 20 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. N/A Jueves, 5 de septiembre 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
N/A
Monday, October 21 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. N/A
Wednesday, October 23 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
N/A
Wednesday, Sept. 25 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
N/A
Thursday, December 5 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 2 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thursday, December 12 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 9 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Register online today at https://bit.ly/DCSAevents or by scanning the QR code. For more information or to register , contact Nicole Thomas at (520) 790-7573 x 1739 or nthomas@pcoa.org.
September/October 2024, Never Too Late | Page 9
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 Take a Walk in the Park…. for Your Brain
A growing body of research suggests that spending time outdoors and experiencing nature provides health benefits, particularly for emotional health and an improved sense of well-being. If physical activity is good for you, being active and being outdoors is even better. Being outdoors increases the positive impact of exercise on physical and emotional functioning, leading to fewer depressive symptoms, decreased stress, and enhancing our sense of well-being and happiness. In one study, older adults who spent time walking outdoors even reported a decreased fear of falling and less pain. The benefits of being in nature don’t apply only to walking or hiking. Gardening has also been shown to promote overall health and quality of life, increasing physical strength, fitness and flexibility. It may even benefit cognitive abilities. A recent study published in Nature Scientific Reports had a group of adults in their 70s engaged in gardening activities—learning about plants, sprouting seeds, setting up planters, and growing vegetables, as well as nature-art activities such as leaf sketching. After a month, these individuals reported more positive emotion, reduced stressed, and their cognitive functioning improved on various tests of memory, attention, and problem solving. This was a small study, and clearly more research is needed. However, the study adds to our growing awareness of the importance of connecting with nature. Whether it’s walking or gardening, it doesn’t take much to see benefits. Studies have shown that even 30 minutes spent in nature has a restorative effect on us.
We all know that walking has many health benefits. Life expectancy, obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, brain health, mental health, and even quality of sleep have all been shown to improve with increased physical activity. For example, a study published in 2021 in the Journal of the Americal Medical Association reported that the more steps participants over age 40 took, the lower their mortality risk from all causes. People who took 8,000 steps a day, compared with those who took 4,000, had a 51 percent lower mortality risk. Even better, high-intensity vigorous walking wasn’t required to see these benefits; low- intensity strolls appeared to be just as effective. Numerous studies have reported that regular walking, especially when it is paired with a healthy diet, may have positive benefits for memory and attention abilities among older adults. In fact, several studies have found that aerobic exercise appears to increase the size of the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for memory. Other studies have found that regular exercise has benefits for sleep. In one study, older adults who walked regularly were 50 percent less likely to have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. There’s even some evidence from a large study conducted in Sweden that brisk walking may help keep your eyes healthy too, decreasing the risk for cataracts. So walking is clearly good for us. But did you know that where you walk makes a difference?
Even looking out a window into a garden or forest or viewing pictures of nature can reduce stress and improve cognitive health. These benefits may be especially significant for older individuals who live with chronic illness or experience stressful events such as the loss of a loved one. It is important to remember that outdoor activities benefit people of all ages, not just children and teenagers. As our population ages, it is important that we provide easy access to nature for all members of our communities. In addition to playgrounds, soccer fields, and bike paths, we need to think about easily accessible walking paths with benches for resting, and other accommodations that will ensure that everyone can enjoy nature, at any age. You can find more information about the Precision Aging Network at our website: https://precisionagingnetwork.org/. To hear about ways that you can participate in our research studies, email us at healthymindsforlife@email.arizona.edu. 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.
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Pima Council on Aging
Medicare Corner
2024 Medicare Presentations Understand the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Learn about Medigap and Prescription Drug Plans. Questions to ask before you enroll. How and when to enroll. Learn about Medicare Savings Programs which may help with paying Part B premiums and/or Part D drug costs for those who qualify. How to find plans that offer the lowest costs for the prescriptions you take. Pick up plan comparison spreadsheets for Pima County Medicare beneficiaries!
Date 2nd and 4th Wednesdays
Time
Registration Links
Location
Sept. 11 & Oct. 9
12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
https://Medicare-At-TheKatie.eventbrite.com
Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center 600 S. Country Club Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85716 Virtual via Zoom
Sept. 11 & Oct. 9 (virtual) Sept. 25 & Oct. 23
12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
https://PCOA-Medicare-on-Zoom.eventbrite.com
https://MedicareAtMurphy-Wilmot.eventbrite.com
Murphy-Wilmot Library 530 N. Wilmot Rd. Tucson, AZ 85711 Oro Valley Public Library 1305 W Naranja Dr, Oro Valley, AZ 85737
https://MedicareOroValleyLibrary.eventbrite.com
Sept. 18 & Oct. 16
12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
PCOA is the local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Pima County. Contact us at (520) 546-2011 for more Medicare information.
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.
September/October 2024, Never Too Late | Page 11
Pima Council on Aging
Medicare Corner
Medicare Cost Assistance Programs Below is information on programs that can help you save on your Medicare costs. To learn more about these programs and receive help with applications, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at 877-2675 or www.shiphelp.org. PCOA is your local SHIP; contact us at (520) 546-2011 .
What are the Medicare Savings Programs? Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state programs that help cover your Medicare costs. To qualify for a MSP, you must meet your state’s income and asset limits. Below are the baseline federal income and asset limits for each MSP. Most states use these limits, but some states have different guidelines, such as different income limits or not imposing asset limits. You should consider applying for the MSP even if you are over the limits, because some income and assets are not counted toward the limits. There are three main programs, each with different benefits and eligibility requirements:
What is Extra Help? Extra Help is a federal program that helps pay for most of the out-of-pocket costs of Medicare prescription drug coverage. If you have Medicaid and MSP or receive Supplemental Security Income, you will be automatically enrolled in Extra Help. If you are not enrolled in these programs, you must apply directly and meet the eligibility requirements below: Income limit Asset limit Benefits
Individual: $1,903 /month Couples: $2,575 /month
Individual: $17,220 Couples: $34,360
$4.50 generic copay $11.20 brand-name copay $0 deductible and premium (for a basic Part D plan with a premium at or below your state benchmark)
MSP
Benefits
Monthly income limit
- Pays Part A and B premiums - Eliminates cost-sharing for Medicare-covered services - Pays Part B premium
Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)
Individual: $1,275 Couple: $1,724
Medicaid • People can be eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. • Medicaid can cover services that Medicare does not, like long-term care. • It can also pay secondary to Medicare, picking up Medicare’s out-of-pocket costs, like copayments or coinsurances. • Generally, your income and assets must be below a certain amount to qualify, but this amount varies from state to state and from program to program. • Call your local Medicaid office to learn about Medicaid programs in your state.
Specified Low- income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Qualifying Individual (QI)
Individual: $1,526 Couple: $2,064
- Pays Part B premium
Individual: $1,715 Couple: $2,320
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
What Other Benefits, Rights, and Protections Come With the MSP? If you enroll in an MSP, you will automatically get Extra Help , the federal program that helps pay your Medicare prescription drug (Part D plan) costs. The MSP allows you to enroll in Medicare outside of the regular enrollment periods. If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period to enroll in Part B, the MSP will allow you to enroll in Part B during any time of the year. If you do not have premium- free Part A and are not enrolled, QMB may allow you to enroll without waiting for the General Enrollment Period, depending on your state.
If you have a late enrollment penalty (LEP), the MSP can eliminate it. Most people need this for Part B LEPs. However, if you have a Part A LEP and qualify for QMB, QMB will also eliminate your Part A LEP. If you are enrolled in the QMB MSP, providers who accept Original Medicare or who are in-network for your Medicare Advantage Plan cannot bill you for any Medicare cost-sharing. This includes deductibles, copayments, and coinsurances for all Medicare covered services. If you have the QMB MSP and your provider bills you for services, let them know that you have QMB and should not be billed. (Note that some states may impose small Medicaid copays for Medicare-covered services.)
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. • Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Contact your local SMP if you have QMB and are being billed for Medicare cost-sharing by a Medicare provider. SMPs empower Medicare beneficiaries, families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report potential Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse. PCOA is the local SHIP/SMP for Pima County. Contact us at (520) 546-2011 for more Medicare information. Remember that the MSP is available to all people with Medicare who qualify, not just those who are enrolled in certain private plans. Where can I go for additional help? • State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): Contact your local SHIP to learn if you are eligible for an MSP. Local SHIPs can also help you with your application and screen you for other Medicare cost assistance programs.
September/October 2024, Never Too Late | Page 13
Pima Council on Aging
Rights & Benefits Information
Changes Are Coming to How You Access Social Security’s Online Services By Dawn Bystry, Associate
ALTCS Workshops Learn about the Arizona Long Term Care System, including what it is, what it takes to be eligible for the program, and what kind of services are available once a person becomes eligible. This workshop is a great place to start when you are considering ALTCS for yourself or for a loved one.
Commissioner, Office of Strategic and Digital Communications
We’re making changes to the way you access Social Security’s online services, including your personal my Social Security account. The changes will simplify your sign-in experience and align with federal authentication standards. At the same time, we’re continuing to provide safe and secure access to our online services. If you created your my Social Security account before September 18, 2021, you will still be able to use your username and password to sign in. However, you will not be able to do so for much longer. In the near future, all users will need to have an account with one of our two Credential Service Providers (CSP) – Login. gov or ID.me – to access your personal my Social Security account and other online services. To learn more, read our press release. If you have an existing Login.gov or ID.me account, you do NOT need to create a new one. And, if you can access your personal my Social Security account through
Login.gov or ID.me, you don’t need to take any action. What to do if you don’t have a Login.gov account. To avoid any disruptions in accessing Social Security’s online services you may want to transition your account now by signing in with your Social Security username. Our online instructions will guide you through the process of creating a new account with Login. gov. Once you successfully link your personal my Social Security account with your new Login.gov account, you’ll get a confirmation screen and have immediate access to our online services. In the future, you’ll sign in to your account with Login.gov and not your Social Security username. Login.gov offers 24/7 customer phone and chat support to answer your questions. “We encourage you to make the transition to Login.gov or ID.me now before the username option goes away later this year.”
Registration is required for both the in-person workshop and online webinar. To register , go to: https://bit.ly/3KldFP2 , or call Donna DeLeon at (520) 305-3450. Please join us on Zoom from your computer, tablet, or phone. Date: October 23rd Fourth Wednesday of each month from 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location may be subject to change. Eventbrite registration will reflect the most up-to- date location information. The webinar is available by telephone or via Zoom on a computer or smart device. Please join us in person. Date: September 25th Location: The Katie | 600 S. Country Club Rd.
Page 14 | September/October 2024, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Rights & Benefits Information
Pro Bono Legal Services From Step Up to Justice
“Step Up to Justice (SU2J) is a free civil legal center for low-income individuals and families in Pima County, powered by the talents of volunteer attorneys,” states Kate Wolf, Director of Operations at SU2J. The legal service provides education and assistance with housing, family law, domestic violence, consumer fraud, bankruptcy, employment, wills/probate, and other legal areas. SU2J and PCOA have partnered to serve low-income older adults in Pima County since the non- profit’s inception in the fall of 2016. Step Up to Justice is privately funded which enables them to help any person who qualifies without being held to restrictions government contracts sometimes impose. It’s no secret that even before the pandemic, but especially since, older adults have been hit hard by rising rent and financial hardship. While this is a national problem, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition’s latest "Out of Reach" report, Arizona is the 14th costliest state in the country for renters. The report states that to secure a modest one-bedroom apartment a renter would need a full-time wage of $27.25 per hour (or $4,723.33 per month). Many of the older adults PCOA serves in Pima
County are limited to Social Security Benefits, often less than the 2024 Federal Poverty Limit of $1,255 per month for a single person. Navigating the rental world is even harder when one doesn’t know their rights. To assist renters and those struggling financially, in the fall SU2J is launching community education projects to help inform the public about their rights in three key areas. Wolf outlines the projects as follows: The RENT Project (Renter Education for Neighborhoods and Tenants) provides tenants with a general understanding of their rights and obligations under Arizona landlord tenant laws. The presentation covers topics including landlords’ obligations regarding making repairs, what tenants can do to minimize the possibility of eviction, and what a tenant should do if an eviction is filed against them. SU2J plans to relaunch this project this fall with online materials and live presentations. Written materials and videos are already available on the SU2J website in both English and Spanish. The MAPP Project (Mobile Home Asset and Property Protection) is like RENT. The curriculum explains mobile
homeowners’ legal rights and responsibilities when they own their mobile home but rent the
land beneath the home. The intent of the project is to help mobile homeowners avoid disputes with their landlords and preserve their primary asset. Additionally, written materials and videos are also available on the SU2J website (English and Spanish), with plans to launch live presentations in the fall. The BEACON Project (Bankruptcy Education and Consumer Outreach Network) is SU2J’s newest outreach project and is geared towards people who are considering filing for bankruptcy to manage their debts. The presentation will cover topics including the legal rights and responsibilities of debtors interested in filing for bankruptcy, the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, pre-filing considerations, and what bankruptcy can and cannot do for debtors. SU2J plans to launch this project in the fall with online resources and live presentations.
SU2J doesn’t require registration for these workshops and invites any who are interested to attend on the following dates:
RENT Workshop
Location
Dates
Time
English
320 N. Commerce Park Loop
10/22/24, 12/10/24
2:00 p.m.
MAPP Workshop
Location
Dates
Time
English
320 N. Commerce Park Loop
9/10/24, 11/12/24
2:00 p.m.
To apply for help or learn more about Step Up to Justice visit their website at https://www.stepuptojustice.org/. If you don’t have access to the internet, please call the PCOA Helpline at (520) 790-7262.
September/October 2024, Never Too Late | Page 15
Pima Council on Aging
Information
PCOA Representatives Coming to Green Valley Meet Us! Mondays between 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. September 2024 9th – Family Caregiving Support Program 16th – Medicare 23rd – Dementia Capable Southern Arizona October 2024 7th – Rights & Benefits 21st – Medicare 28th – Dementia Capable Southern Arizona November 2024 4th – Rights & Benefits 18th – Medicare 25th – Dementia Capable Southern Arizona December 2024 2nd – Rights & Benefits 9th – Family Caregiving Support Program 16th – Medicare 23rd – Dementia Capable Southern Arizona Join us at
Assistance in Green Valley PCOA provides information, assistance, and advocacy for older people and their families in Pima County. A wide variety of help is available for people living in Green Valley, either in-person, by phone, or virtually. Please call our Helpline at (520) 790-7262 to find out how PCOA can help, or use the contact information below to reach specific programs directly.
Call us for help with...
Join us in-person and online
PCOA Helpline: (520) 790-7262 • Rights & Benefits Assistance
• Caregiver support groups To see the schedule of virtual family caregiver support groups and to register, call: (520) 305-3405 Visit memorycafe.pcoa.org or call (520) 790-7573, ext 1739 • Workshops about understanding Medicare To register, call: (520) 546-2011 • Workshops about understanding the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) To register, call: (520) 305-3450 • EnhanceFitness® classes To see the schedule for EnhanceFitness®and learn about other virtual programs go to: thekatie.org • Memory Cafés
Provides assistance with community resources and landlord/tenant issues Help access financial assistance resources Information and assistance for anyone caring for a loved one living with them or living in their own home Advocacy for people in nursing and assisted living facilities throughout Pima County • Medicare Education and Counseling • Dementia Screenings and Support • Family Caregiver Support • Ombudsman
Community Lunch Program
Help in the home
• Located at Posada Life Community Center • Monday - Friday at 11:30 a.m. • For people 60 and older (and spouse, regardless of their age) • A suggested donation of $2–$3 is requested To register call: (520) 625-2273
Call our Helpline for more information and eligibility assessment: (520) 790-7262 • Help with bathing and light house keeping • Home Delivered Meals • Time away (respite) for family caregivers
Valley Assistance Services Your Helping Hand Forward
PCOA Helpline: (520) 790-7262 | pcoa.org | help@pcoa.org PCOA maintains a waiting list for services based on available funding and capacity of workers. Are you interested in being a paid caregiver? Contact us at (520) 305-3445
3950 S. Camino Del Heroe, Green Valley, AZ
Page 16 | September/October 2024, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
PCOA CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER
Held in-person or virtually with Zoom.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER professional and are a safe place for you to express your concerns, frustrations, etc. and learn that others feel this way too. Participation in the groups can be in person, by telephone, computer, tablet, or smartphone with 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 others’ challenges and successes, learn about helpful resources, know that your story matters and that you have been heard. Support groups are facilitated by a
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 at (520) 305-3405 or tclay@pcoa.org.
“Participation in the group aids in navigating the shift from life before my partner’s diagnosis and alleviates the weight of guilt and fear for both of us.” –Support Group Attendee
9/3 & 10/1, 1st Tuesday 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Oro Valley) In-Person 9/4, 1st Wednesday (Rescheduled from the Holiday) 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (East) In-Person 9/5 & 10/3, 1st Thursday 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
(Green Valley) In-Person 9/10 & 10/8, 2nd Tuesday 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Virtual ON ZOOM 9/11, 2nd Wednesday 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (East) In-Person 9/16 & 10/21, 3rd Monday 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (Midtown) In-Person 9/17 & 10/15, 3rd Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (North) In-Person 10/16, 3rd Wednesday 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
(East) In-Person 9/19 & 10/17, 3rd Thursday 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Virtual ON ZOOM 10/18, Friday (Rescheduled from the Holiday) 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (Green Valley) In-Person 9/23 & 10/28, 4th Monday 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Virtual ON ZOOM 9/24 & 10/22, 4th Tuesday
Virtual ON ZOOM 10/7, 1st Monday 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (East) In-Person 9/9, 2nd Monday 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (Southwest) In-Person
*NOTE: Meetings will not be held on days when holidays are observed. PLEASE RSVP for all groups. We continue to social distance at all in-person meetings. Masks are optional. To RSVP or if you have any questions, please contact: Tonetta Clay, Support Group Facilitator (520) 305-3405, tclay@pcoa.org
September/October 2024, Never Too Late | Page 17
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
Caregiving Essentials: First Steps Training Schedule Free training for informal, nonpaid family caregivers
Thursday, September 12 Wednesday, October 16 Friday, November 15
600 S. Country Club Rd., Tucson, AZ If staying for both, you may bring your own lunch. Coffee and water will be available.
• Stress Management & Grief • Communication • Dementia Behaviors & Issues • Finances & Legal Resources • Lifelines for Support: Respite & Support Groups • Phone & Technology Use • Grief & End of Life Resources Workshop 1: Steps to Resilience (9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.) Check in at 8:45 a.m.
Workshop 2: Physical Care and Safety (1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.)
• Proper Body Mechanics • Home Environment Safety & Falls Prevention • Planning for an Emergency • Understanding Assistive Devices • Proper Walking/Transferring Techniques
• Re-positioning with Reassessment • Activity Planning, Outings & Car Etiquette • Infection Control & Providing Personal Care
This training does not provide certification or CEU’s for employment.
For questions or possible respite ideas, call Kelley Hansen at (520) 790-7573 ext. 3413; khansen@pcoa.org
Register and/or cancellations on Eventbrite: https://caregivingessentials24.eventbrite.com or call Donna Deleon at (520) 790-7573 ext. 1750; ddeleon@pcoa.org
Page 18 | September/October 2024, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
Caregiving
For older adults, falls pose a significant health concern, and often lead to lost independence, severe injuries, and even fatality. Falls have profound impacts on older adults’ caregivers also. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four older adults falls each year, resulting in more than 3 million emergency room visits, 800,000 hospitalizations, and 28,000 deaths annually in the U.S. alone! Older adults are at increased fall risk because of: • Age-related Changes: Muscle strength, balance, and vision may decline with age • Medications: Many medications (especially those affecting blood pressure and balance) can cause drowsiness or dizziness • Chronic Conditions: Arthritis, osteoporosis, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes can negatively affect both mobility and stability • Tripping Hazards: Poor lighting, slippery floors, throw rugs, unsecured cords, and cluttered spaces can lead to slips, trips, and falls But many falls are preventable when older adults and their caregivers implement simple safety and fall prevention strategies including: • Exercise: Getting regular physical activity that includes strength and balance exercises improves muscle tone, flexibility, and coordination • Medication Management: Reviewing medications with healthcare providers to identify drug interactions, optimal doses, and timing of medications significantly reduces fall risk • Vision and Hearing Checks: Wearing corrective lenses and hearing aids improves sensory perception and environmental awareness • Footwear: Donning properly fitting, supportive shoes with non-skid soles helps people with sure-footedness • Home Safety Modifications: o Installing grab bars in bathrooms and stairways o Removing throw rugs, or secure them (and cords) with double-sided tape o Improving lighting, especially in hallways and staircases The Value of Falls Prevention for Older Adults and Their Caregivers By Deb Seng, Caregiving and Community Initiatives Director
Many older adults rely on family, or informal caregivers for regular support and assistance with the activities of daily living. This means caregivers are well-positioned to champion falls prevention with their loved one, and can help in the following ways: • Exercise: Encourage and participate with your care recipient in physical activities and prescribed exercises • Medication Management: Ensure your loved one’s medications are taken as prescribed, and monitor for risky side effects • Observation: Be mindful about changes in your person’s wellbeing including declines in vision, hearing, mobility, and stability • Home Safety: Collaborate with your loved one to identify and eliminate potential hazards in the home Far too often, older adults who fall succumb to complications from their injuries—increased dependency on others, reduced mobility, pneumonia, blood clots, and death. In fact, studies consistently show that older adults who experience a hip fracture are significantly more likely to die within a year than their peers who do not break their hips. Implementing these simple falls prevention strategies promotes independence and improves life quality for older adults and their caregivers. Equipped with knowledge, caregivers play an integral role in creating safe environments and preserving independence for the older adults they love. To learn more about preserving your loved one’s dignity and safeguarding their wellbeing, contact our Helpline at (520) 790-7262 and ask for the Family Caregiver Support Program .
September/October 2024, Never Too Late | Page 19
Pima Council on Aging
Ending Life Well: Conversations & Connections
Weathering the Storm: Bone Fractures and the Importance of Advance Directives
By Alex Trevino , Caregiving and End of Life Specialist September, sadly, marks the end of our monsoon season—a period I eagerly anticipate each year. Although it is a beautiful time, it is also a time to be mindful and vigilant of your surroundings due to multiple weather-related threats. For instance, did you know lightning kills more people than tornadoes and hurricanes? Yet it is interesting that most of us do not see a thunderstorm as a direct threat to our safety. September is also Falls Prevention Awareness Month. Being mindful of falls is crucial, especially for older adults, as a fall can easily lead to bone fractures. Like lightning, we tend to underestimate the threat of such events. In reality, bone fractures are not only painful injuries, but they present high complication risks often leading to a downward spiral of health concerns, and even death. These types of injuries can create “the perfect storm,” significantly impacting an individual's quality of life and overall health, particularly in older age. The trauma of breaking specific bones like a hip often leads to immobility, loss of independence, and increased risk of complications such as pneumonia, blood clots, pressure ulcers, and infections. The recovery process can be arduous and lengthy, requiring intensive rehabilitation and long-term care. Unfortunately, individuals aged 65 and older, who experience a hip fracture are at a higher risk of mortality within the first year following the injury compared
to those who do not. A recent study published in JBMR Plus (published by the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research) shows that older adults who experience some bone fractures have a five-year survival rate of fewer than one-third in men and about one-half in women. The highest risk for mortality is hip fractures with survival rates around 67.7% for males and 78.5% for females in the first year. This means that the survival rate for individuals who break a hip is worse than that of several common cancers.
of a medical emergency, or incapacity. By documenting preferences regarding medical treatments, end-of-life care, and preferred life-sustaining measures, individuals provide clarity and guidance to their healthcare providers and loved ones during challenging times. Get ahead of the storm and make the decision to complete your End of Life Plan today. By engaging in conversations about healthcare options, discussing end- of-life care wishes with important people, and documenting directives in advance of a health crisis, individuals empower themselves to make informed decisions and retain control over their healthcare journey, even in the face of unexpected challenges. Please call the PCOA Helpline at (520) 790-7262 if you have questions or need assistance completing your Advance Directives. Study: https://academic.oup.com/jbmrplus/ article/8/5/ziae002/7584588?login=false
Unfortunately, we are as good at predicting when these types of injuries may occur as we are predicting when and where lightning will strike. Given these sobering statistics and the potential consequences of something like a hip fracture, the importance of completing Advance Directives in healthcare planning cannot be overstated. Advance Directives allow individuals to express their healthcare preferences, values, and priorities, ensuring that their wishes are known and respected in the event
Shaaron Kent Endowment held at the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona
Page 20 | September/October 2024, Never Too Late
Pima Council on Aging
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