The Momentum 2nd Quarter April-June 2022

The Momentum 2nd Quarter April-June 2022

Insurance Awareness 30 Barrier Awareness Day 17 ALS Awareness Day 5

AARP's Homefit Guide 35

In This Edition Vintage.......................................................3 ALS Awareness...........................................5 Coffee Cake Day..........................................6 Alcohol Screening Day.................................7 Need a Ride?................................................9 Lyme Disease............................................10 Combat Social Isolation.............................11 Caregiving in US........................................13 Caregiver Support Program.......................14 Nursing Home Neglect...............................15 In-Home Services Voucher........................22 Barrier Awareness Day..............................18 Frog Jumping Day......................................22 Healthy Aging............................................23 LGBT Elders Day........................................26 Benefits of Exercise...................................27 Anne & Samantha Day................................29 KN95 Masks..............................................30 Voucher Programs....................................34 COVID Vaccines.........................................35 AARP HomeFit Guide.................................36 Vegetable Gardening in the Mountains...... 72 CARE Program...........................................76 Partners at Meals......................................78 Riddles and Activities................................79 Age-Inclusive Communication...................81 CAREthartic Conversations........................84 Senior Smiles............................................85 Aging Well Expo........................................90 WIOA.........................................................89 Summit County Resources.........................53 Regional Resources...................................57

April - June 2022 Original content in this edition provided by Leah Rybak, LMR Consulting LLC Content Curated by Ceci Peterson, Vintage Magazine Edited by Amanda Rens-Moon, Vintage

We are The Alpine Region's Aging Expert

Vintage is the Alpine region's aging expert-ensuring that all of us have access to the supports, services, and resources we need as we age. We also provide deep content expertise to ensure our communities and providers meet those needs as well. Our services include financial assistance for in-home services, transportation, and dental & vision needs, information & referral, nutrition programs, caregiver supports, Medicare counseling, long term care ombudsman, volunteer opportunities, legal assistance and educational programs.

SERVICES FOR AGING WELL IN COLORADO Your Connection to Information, Resources, and Advocacy in Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, and Summit.

Volunteer Opportunities We have a variety of volunteer opportunities, such as Respite

Dental & Vision Assistance Programs

People-Carry

TOOTH

We have funding for adults 60 and older for dental and vision needs that will keep you healthy and receiving the care you need. Transportation We have trusted transportation options to get you where you need to go when you need to go there. Options include transportation vouchers and other transportation services depending on the area. Health: Nutrition & Balance Vintage offers the following nutrition- related programs such as Home Delivered Meals, Community Based Meals, and Nutrition Education and Counseling. We also provide Evidence-Based Health and Wellness Programs and fall prevention classes. Legal Assistance

Companions, Medicare Counselors, Regional Advisory Council Board members, Long Term Care Ombudsmen, and our RSVP program. Caregiver Support At Vintage, we support you in whatever stage of the aging journey you are on! For caregivers, we offer training and education, financial assistance, and have a volunteer respite program in Summit County to assist where you need it most. Medicare & State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) We are here to answer your questions or concerns about Medicare, Medicare benefits, or to see if you’re eligible for the Medicare Savings Program. LTC Ombudsman The Long Term Care Ombudsman protects and promotes the Resident Rights of the residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities in our region.

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HEARTBEAT

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We contract with partners who provide legal services to older adults 60+ free of charge to those with the most significant economic or social needs.

Aging Services Focused on YOU Call our Resource Center at (970) 468-0295 if you have any questions or are interested in learning more.

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What is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neuromuscular disease that destroys muscle-controlling nerve cells called motor neurons. As these motor neurons are lost, the muscles they control become weak and then nonfunctional, thus leading to muscle weakness, disability, and eventually death.

May is ALS Awareness Month

Lou Gehrig's Disease

Lou Gehrig was a New York Yankee baseball player who lived with ALS until his death in 1941. In the U.S. ALS is commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.

Support those with ALS this month by donating or participating in a local walk or run for ALS.

ALS Awareness Month Learn about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Symptoms of ALS

Is there a cure?

Muscle weakness, muscle atrophy and twitching Change in vocal quality, or swallowing Incomplete eye closure and drooling. Inappropriate laughing, crying, or yawning

There is no cure. From the time of diagnosis, most patients die within three to five years. Around 30 percent of ALS patients are alive beyond five years after diagnosis.

How many people have ALS?

ALS is estimated to affect 5 out of every 100,000 people in the United States. The onset of ALS symptoms usually occurs in late middle age or later.

April 7th is...

National Coffee Cake Day

History It's believed that coffee cake originated in Northern or Central Europe in the 17th century. There are several different countries claiming original ownership of the first coffee cake including: Germany, Austria and Denmark. Regardless of it's disputed origins, it's become an American breakfast staple.

Easy Microwave Coffee Cake Mug Cake

From Mildly Meandering

Mug Cake

Instructions

1/4 cup all-purpose flour 2 tbsp brown sugar 1/4 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 cup milk 1 1/2 tbsp butter, melted

In a small bowl, combine all ingredients for the mug cake except the ingredients for the topping. Stir until well combined and smooth.

In a separate bowl, combine ingredients for crumb topping and mix together with a fork, until it has a crumb like texture.

Crumb Topping

Pour mug cake batter into microwave-safe mug and top with crumb topping.

1 tbsp butter, softened 2 tbsp brown sugar 1 tbsp flour 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Microwave for 1-1:30 minutes and enjoy!

National Alcohol

Screening Day

Alcohol use screening tests are questionnaires

designed to find out if you have alcohol use disorder

Heavy drinkers

(AUD). April 7th marks a day to raise awareness

17.7 MILLION

about the harmful effects of alcohol abuse and

alcohol dependency.

in the US.

AUD is a pattern of excessive drinking that can

61.6 million people were

cause serious problems in your work, relationships,

classified as binge drinkers,

and health. AUD can be

mild, moderate, or severe .

and 17.7 million people

Severe AUD is sometimes called alcohol abuse or

were classified as heavy

alcoholism .

drinkers (2020 NSDUH)

SCREENING QUESTIONS TO ASK

In the past year, have you:

Wanted a drink so

Continued to drink

Had times when you

badly you couldn’t

even though it was

ended up drinking

think of anything else?

causing trouble with

more, or longer, than

Found that drinking—

your family or friends?

you intended?

or being sick from

Given up or cut back

More than once

drinking—often

on activities that were

wanted to cut down or

interfered with your

important or

stop drinking, or tried

life?

interesting to you, in

to, but couldn’t?

Found that when the

order to drink?

Spent a lot of time

effects of alcohol were

More than once gotten

drinking? Or being sick

wearing off, you had

into dangerous

or getting over other

withdrawal

situations while or

after effects?

symptoms?

after drinking?

Addiction impacts not only the person, but their jobs, families, and communities,

too. Check out https://alcoholscreening.org/

Alcohol and

Older Adults

PLACES TO GET HELP

As you age, you become more sensitive to alcohol’s

effects. Along with serious health repercussions,

Alcoholics Anonymous

alcohol increases the risk for falls, broken bones, and

212-870-3400

car crashes tied to drinking.

www.aa.org

Heavy alcohol use can also lead to other health

Substance Abuse +

problems, such as cancer and liver disease. As well as

Mental Health Services

Administration

a higher risk of depression and suicide.

877-726-4727

Also, older women are more sensitive than men to the

800-487-4889 (TTY)

www.samhsa.gov

effects of alcohol.

MORE INFORMATION

MEDICINE INTERACTIONS

WAYS TO CUT BACK

Alcohol

+

1. Write down your reasons for cutting

Aspirin

= increased risk of stomach or

back.

These might include wanting to

intestinal bleeding

improve your health or to sleep better.

Cold/Allergy Medicines

= may make you

Other reasons may be to improve

feel very sleepy.

relationships and to stay independent.

Acetaminophen

= may cause liver damage.

2. Set a drinking goal.

You may decide to

Cough Syrups/Laxatives

= will cause your

cut down to 1 drink a day. Or not to drink

alcohol level to go up

at all. Write your goal down and put it

Sleeping Pills/Anxiety/Anti-Depression

where you will see it every day.

Medicines

= potentially deadly

3. Talk to your healthcare provide r if

you're worried about how you're feeling or

Check your doctor to see if your prescription

behaving. Other treatable factors, such as

interacts poorly with alcohol.

depression or anxiety, may be involved.

If you feel that alcohol is endangering you or someone else, call 911 or get other

help right away.

Vintage (Formerly known as Alpine Area Agency on Aging) has a transportation voucher to suit your needs. The voucher program works in two ways: 1. You drive yourself and receive mileage reimbursement. 2. Someone else drives you, and we pay them or reimburse you for payment. Who is Eligible? If you are 60+ and live in Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin or Summit counties, you may qualify. NEED A RIDE?

Contact Ceci Peterson for more information [email protected] 970-531-4087

National Lyme Disease Awareness Month

5 Fast Facts to Up Your Lyme Disease IQ

Lyme disease is transmitted from backlegged ticks, also known as deer ticks.

Symptoms include: Fatigue

Neck Stiffness or Pain Jaw Discomfort Joint Aches Memory Loss Vision Problems, Fainting

Ticks love high grasses, brush, and heavily wooded areas. Prevent Lyme disease by covering exposed skin and using bug spray. Always check for ticks after spending time in high risk areas.

If caught early (within the first 2 or 3 weeks,) and treated with antibiotics, up to 90% of cases will resolve. Untreated cases may develop "Long Lyme disease."

Lyme disease can be found worldwide (except Antarctica) and in all 50 states.

STAY CONNECTED to Combat Loneliness and Social Isolation

Feeling lonely and being isolated are bad for your health.

Loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher rates of depression, a weakened immune system, heart disease, dementia, and early death.*

Are you at risk? 

Try to stay active and better connected if you: •

•

•

• are a caregiver • lack a sense of purpose

Ideas for staying connected

Find an activity that you enjoy or learn something new. You might have fun and meet people with similar interests.

Get moving! Exercise decreases stress, boosts your mood, and increases your energy.

Volunteer. You’ll feel better by helping others.

Stay in touch with family, friends, and neighbors in person, online, or by phone.

Consider adopting a pet. Animals can be a source of comfort and may also lower stress and blood pressure.

For more information about preventing loneliness and social isolation, visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/participating-activities-you-enjoy.

National Institute on Aging

*Cacioppo JT, Hawkley LC. Perceived social isolation and cognition. Trends Cogn Sci. 2009;13(10):447-54.

Vintage (formerly known as Alpine Area Agency on Aging) Caregiver Support Program Are you helping a family member or a friend over the age of 60? The Vintage Caregiver Support Program provides funding for caregivers of older adults who need assistance with transportation, personal care, chores, and homemaking services. It also provides information, assistance and resources for caregivers. Who is Eligible? If the person for whom you provide care is 60+ and lives in Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin or Summit county, you may qualify.

Contact Ceci Peterson for more information [email protected] 970-531-4087

Nursing Home Neglect: Preventing It and Getting Help Neglect is the failure to provide goods and services to a resident that are necessary to avoid physical harm, pain, mental anguish, or emotional distress . That could include the failure to provide the staffing, supplies, services, or staff training to meet the resident’s needs. Neglect may or may not be intentional. A person living in a nursing home has the right to be free of abuse and neglect. Federal law requires nursing homes to provide each resident the services and activities to “attain or maintain [their] highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being.” Signs of Neglect include: • Pressure ulcers or pressure sores • Malnutrition or unexplained weight loss • Dehydration • Poor personal hygiene – bathing, nails dirty and unclipped, hair dirty and matted or uncombed, teeth or dentures not brushed or cared for • Isolation – not offered or given the opportunity to interact or engage with others in the nursing home or in the community • Failure to provide assistive devices – such as canes, wheelchairs, eyeglasses, dentures • Frequent or untreated changes in condition, including illness and infection • Over- or under-medicating • Changes in demeanor – becoming withdrawn, depressed, angry

Red Flags of Neglect

T he resident is dirty, unkempt The resident’s room or the facility is dirty Changes in condition or demeanor Loss of abilities, such as walking, using the bathroom, or interacting with others Unexplained injuries, bruises, falls Long wait times for the call bell to be answered High staff turnover

These are red flags that could be cause for concern. Ask questions or get help.

• Loss of abilities – such as walking, incontinence • Unexplained injuries – bruises, broken bones, falls • Unclean living conditions

Neglect is often the result of inadequate staffing in a nursing home. If there are not enough staff to care for the residents, then care and services are not provided, and mistakes are often made, or accidents occur. Lack of proper training is another factor that can lead to neglect due to care not being properly provided, as well as increased staff errors and accidents.

Take Action to Report Neglect When you are concerned about the care, or lack of care, being provided, take action !

Raise your concerns inside the nursing home

Talk to the staff who provide care. Ongoing, early communication can keep minor problems from becoming serious and can help you build a good working relationship with staff. Ask for a care planning conference to review the care and services needed by the resident and ask how the nursing home is going to ensure the plan is followed. File a complaint through the nursing home’s grievance process. Every nursing home must have a grievance process, a grievance official, and must provide that information to each resident. Whenever a resident files a grievance, the nursing home must provide a written summary of its investigation and its results, including any corrective action to be taken as a result of the grievance. Raise your concerns to the Director of Nursing or Administrator. If talking to the staff person directly involved does not resolve the problem, or you’re finding the problems persist, ask to meet with someone with more authority, such as the Director of Nursing or the Administrator. Hear the nursing home out, but don’t lose sight of your goal: the resident’s well-being. The home may blame aides who call in sick, time-consuming paperwork, low reimbursement rates, etc. The nursing home is responsible, however, for ensuring that each resident receives the proper care and services. Ask how they will ensure that this happens for all residents. Connect with the Resident or Family Council. Resident and family councils may already be working on the issue or concerns you’re raising, and you will find out how widespread the problems may be. These councils can also present concerns to the facility, and according to law, the facility must act on council complaints. If the nursing home does not have a family council, start one yourself. Get more information about family councils at theconsumervoice.org/issues/family/family-council-center .

Get help from outside the nursing home

Contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. Long-term care ombudsmen are advocates for individuals living in long-term care facilities. They are trained to resolve problems and can assist with complaints. File a complaint with your State’s Licensing Agency. In every state this agency monitors or regulates licensed nursing homes. You can file a complaint to prompt an investigation.

To find an Ombudsman in your area, or your State’s Licensing Agency, go to theconsumervoice.org/get_help .

This material was completed in collaboration with the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care for the National Center on Elder Abuse situated at Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California and is supported in part by a grant (No. 90ABRC0001-04) from the Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Grantees carrying out projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Therefore, points of view or opinions do not necessarily represent official ACL or HHS policy.

Vintage (formerly known as Alpine Area Agency on Aging) In-Home Services Voucher Program Do you need help with daily activities like vacuuming, doing laundry, snow removal, and personal care? The Vintage In-Home Services Program provides funding for older adults who need assistance with personal care, chores, and homemaking services. Who is Eligible? If you are 60+ and live in Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin or Summit county, you may qualify.

Contact Ceci Peterson for more information [email protected] 970-531-4087 30

National Barrier

Awareness Day

In 1986, when 36 million Americans dealt with some type of disability and it was believed 80% of Americans would face a disability in their lifetime, Congress passed Joint Resolution 544 to designate May 7th as National Barrier Awareness Day.

Denver Public Library Western History Collection Archives, Rocky Mountain News (1978, July 6)

What is Barrier Awareness Day?

According to studies from 2021, about 61 million adults in the United States—about 1 in 4—live with a disability. For those over 65, the number is 2 out of 5. The top two functional disability types are mobile disability and cognition disability. In 1986, when 36 million Americans dealt with some disability and believed 80% of Americans would face a disability in their lifetime, Congress passed Joint Resolution 544 to designate May 7th as National Barrier Awareness Day. This was done to raise awareness so that stereotypes and cultural attitudes that held back people with disabilities would be dispelled.

Defining the word “disability” isnʼt easy.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development uses this description: “Any person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; has a record of such impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment.” The U.S. Census Bureauʼs American Community Survey uses six categories—difficulty with “vision, hearing, cognitive, ambulatory, self- care, and independent living”—to estimate that 12.8 percent of the population has disabilities.

Ways to Remove Barriers

Today is a great day to challenge the mental obstacles around disabilities. Many people still hold misconceptions, stereotypes, and myths regarding individuals with disabilities.

One of the biggest barriers is that people are unaware that most disabilities are invisible. An example of this is someone parking in a handicapped space might not have physical disabilities but could suffer from debilitating pain. It's important to keep in mind cognitive disabilities, including, Autism, ADHD, and Dyslexia.

It is time to see the abilities, not the disabilities, in the person.

We can remove the barriers by:

Being an advocate for those with disabilities. On a local, state, and national level! Educating yourself about those with disabilities and learn ways to Change your mind: the general belief is that disability is the individual's problem, but truly the disability rights movement affects our whole society.

Denver Gang of 19

Thanks to the efforts of the Gang of 19, Denver became one of the first cities in

the country with accessible mass transit.

It's been 44 years since the Denver Gang of 19 changed the game for accessibility.

On July 5 and 6 in 1978, 19 individuals laid down in the busy intersection of Broadway and Colfax in Denver in a protest against the lack of wheelchair accessibility on RTD buses. The disability activists, who became known as the " Gang of 19 ," blocked traffic and chanted " We will ride! " until the city and RTD agreed to make the buses accessible to people who use wheelchairs. These are the names of the Gang of 19: Linda Chism-Andre, Renate Rabe-Conrad, Willy Cornelison, Mary Ann Sisneros, Carolyn Finnell, George Roberts, Mel Conrardy, Bobby Simpson, Debbie Tracy, Jeannie Joyce, Kerry Schott, Jim Lundvall, Lori Heezen, Glenn Kopp, Bob Conrad, Larry Ruiz, Cindy Dunn, Paul Brady, and Terri Fowler. The group didn't stop there. The Denver Public Library notes in a 2015 article about the Gang of 19, "The second major wave of ADAPT protests targeted Social Security, health care policies, and Medicaid. Their ultimate goal was to obtain government support for attendant care and independent living funds. Eventually, ADAPT began protesting restaurants, schools, parking lots, post offices, housing communities, casinos, churches, and more. Wherever wheelchairs could not go, ADAPT was there to take action and demand access."

Members of the Gang of 19 protesting inaccessible RTD buses on July 1978 in Denver. Photo courtesy of the Denver Post via Getty Images

National Frog Jumping Day

National Frog Jumping Day is on May 13. While the name itself may seem rather vague, its origins come from Mark Twain’s first published short story about a betting man and his pet frog. Did you know that there are approximately 7,300 species of frogs around the world and the most colorful ones are the most poisonous? National Frog Jumping Day is important because it brings literature to life, as well as brings awareness to different kinds of frogs and their impact within our ecosystem. Mark Twain, one of the most famous and celebrated authors in literature, published his first short story named “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County” in 1865. This story also goes by “Jim Smiley and His Jumping Frog” and “The Notorious Jumping Frog of Calaveras County.” The premise of the story is about a man named Jim Smiley, a compulsive better. He trains a pet frog he names Dan’l Webster and bets his frog can jump higher than all the other frogs in town. The man who he bets with ends up tricking Smiley and wins the bet. Inspired by this story, Calaveras County in Northern California started hosting a Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee during the third week of May. The fair spans four days and offers classic fair food, award-winning wines, carnival rides, rodeo, and live music, amongst other things, but their main event is the frog jumping competition. One frog named Rosie the Ribeter has held the jumping record at 21 feet, 5 ¾ inches since 1986. Even though there are other frog jumping competitions throughout different cities in North America, the one at Calaveras is the most popular and well-known because of its relation to Mark Twain’s short story. This day allows people to celebrate the agility of frogs and to embrace literature in a new and exciting way.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention HEALTHY AGING

What is a Healthy Brain? New Research Explores Perceptions of Cognitive Health Among Diverse Older Adults

Cognitive health is a major factor in ensuring the quality of life of older adults and preserving their independence. To explore how diverse older adults think about “cognitive health and cognitive decline,” the Healthy Aging Research Network, a group of nine universities supported by the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) Healthy Aging Program, conducted a series of group interviews across the United States. This research, identified in The Healthy Brain Initiative: A National Public Health Road Map to Maintaining Cognitive Health (www.cdc.gov/aging) as a priority area, was designed to gain insights into how people view cognitive health and how to maintain it.The findings will

be used to further the development of effective public health messages to promote cognitive health in older adults across the nation. Between 2005 and 2007, researchers conducted 55 focus groups with over 450 participants from nine states.The diverse participants included older adults (some of whom were

experiencing cognitive impairment), individuals caring for family or friends experiencing cognitive impairment, healthcare providers, residents of rural and urban areas, speakers of English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Vietnamese, African Americans, American Indians, Asian Americans, Hispanics, and non-Hispanic whites. Several key themes emerged from the focus groups.

What is cognitive health? A healthy brain is one that can perform all the mental processes that are collectively known as cognition, including the ability to learn new things, intuition, judgment, language, and remembering.

Race and ethnicity can influence how we define a healthy brain. People from many diverse racial and ethnic groups shared a common language and a core set of beliefs • about what comprises a healthy brain.They most often describe cognitive health as “staying sharp” or being “right in the mind” and define it as living to an advanced age, having good physical health, having a positive mental outlook, being alert, having a good memory, and being socially involved. Participants also identified areas where their specific ethnic, cultural, or geographic group may be • unique in terms of how cognitive health is defined. Researchers found differences among the groups in terms of how participants discussed specific issues • such as independent living, older adults and driving, the importance of playing games or puzzles, and the effects of “good genes.” Older adults believe that physical activity can protect cognitive health but are often less clear on the role nutrition can play. Participants in all groups believed that physical activity, particularly walking, promotes cognitive • health, but they were unsure about the frequency, duration, and intensity of walking that would be required to achieve benefits.

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A wide range of healthy physical activities were cited, including Tai Chi, gardening, and housekeeping. • However, strength training, which has numerous benefits for older adults (such as improved bone density and decreased risk of falling), was seldom mentioned by any of the groups. Many participants acknowledged difficulty translating their knowledge of what they “should” do into • healthy actions. Participants also believed there is a link between diet and cognitive health, but they were more skeptical • about this link than they were about the link between physical activity and cognitive health.There was also considerable variability among groups about what they considered a “healthy” diet; some focused more on moderation and portion size, others on foods that should be avoided. Most participants said that fruits, vegetables, and lean meats are good for the brain, but did not identify • specific dietary changes, and many expressed confusion over the role of dietary supplements.

“First in staying sharp is exercising, the second is diet, and the third is being active in society. Go often, participate often …” ~by a participant

Findings can guide development of better messages Regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, language, or geographic region, older adults who participated in the group interviews agreed that cognitive health—memory, decision-making, and similar functions—is important to healthy aging.

Participants shared their views on ways to maintain a • healthy lifestyle, including physical activity, a healthy diet, social involvement, participation in enjoyable activities, a positive mental attitude, spiritual activities, and accepting and adapting to physical and cognitive changes. Participants also provided many creative and useful ideas that could be used to develop effective public health messages about cognitive health. Their suggestions reflected racial and ethnic diversity. African Americans, for example, linked cognitive • health to spiritual health, while Chinese and Vietnamese participants felt that a healthy body and a healthy brain go together. White participants emphasized that no matter what your age you can still be healthy and happy. Health messages that build on existing perceptions, use cognitive health as a motivator for healthy • behaviors, and involve “community champions” as advocates were viewed positively by these groups. Media messages are rare and often conflicting. Participants reported hearing little about cognitive health in the mass media, with most information • coming from print media. Although most participants watched a lot of television, they reported little or no information about cognitive health coming from this source. All groups expressed a distrust of media messages regarding cognitive health, and felt that conflicting • and changing messages contribute to confusion about the media’s promotion of health. Social networks and educational programs were identified as more effective ways to reach people with • messages about cognitive health, particularly within pre-existing social networks such as clubs or senior centers.

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“I don’t know if there’s anything left that really they [the media] know is healthy for you.” ~by a participant Overall, the findings suggest that messages about cognitive health should be tailored to specific communities and cultural subgroups, and that existing media messages are often conflicting. Researchers will continue to examine these issues to better inform the public about the evolving science of maintaining cognitive health and preventing cognitive impairment. This work was supported in part by the Healthy Aging Program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

RESOURCES To learn more about this research, see the special issue of The Gerontologist: Promoting Cognitive Health in Diverse Populations of Older Adults (Volume 49, Number S1, June 2009). A good general resource for consumers is NIHSeniorHealth, an easy-to-use website from the National Institutes of Health that features health and wellness information for older adults. (http://nihseniorhealth.gov/) To learn more about CDC’s Healthy Brain Initiative contact:

Kristine L. Day, MPH Healthy Brain Initiative Healthy Aging Program Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [email protected] To learn more about the PRCHAN’s research contact: Daniela B. Friedman, PhD Arnold School of Public Health University of South Carolina [email protected]

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Honor Our LGBT Elders Day on May 16th each year recognizes the thousands of people in the LGBT community who have paved the way for access and social acceptance. The rights and acceptance that LGBTQ individuals have today did not occur in a vacuum or happen by accident. LGBT elders worked hard to gain rights and social acceptance. Although LGBTʼs history continues to be written, learning the history help to educate and develop understanding. Many pivotal events created a lasting impact, and the people behind those events deserve recognition. 1924 – Henry Gerber establishes the Society for Human rights, the first gay rights group in the United States. 1969 – The Stonewall riots begin in New York City. 1973 – The American Psychiatric Association removes homosexuality from the official list of mental illnesses. Being gay or lesbian is no longer considered a mental illness. 2004 – Massachusetts becomes the first state to legalize same-sex marriage. These are only a few of the events that made lasting change. The day offers an opportunity to explore more history and people who have brought more equality to the LGBT community. While more work needs to be done, be sure to take time to recognize the LGBT elders who made a difference. HONOR OUR LGBT ELDERS DAY May 16th is...

During Honor Out LGBT Elders Day, community centers, faith organizations, educational institutions, and aging service providers recognize the lives of LGBT older adults and honor their contributions to history.

In 2015, Nate Sweeney founded Honor Our LGBT Elders Day to recognize the contributions and leadership of the older members of the LGBT community.

The Emotional Benefits of Exercise Research shows the benefits of exercise go beyond just physical well-being. Physical activities—like walking, biking, dancing, yoga, or tai chi—can help:

Reduce feelings of depression and stress

Enhance your mood and overall emotional well-being

emotional well-being

Improve sleep

Increase your energy level

So, the next time you’re feeling down, anxious, or stressed, start moving! Get exercise ideas, motivational tips, and more from the National Institute on Aging at NIH.

National Institute on Aging

nia.nih.gov/health/exercise

Samantha Smith

Anne Frank

Anne Frank Anne Frank moved generations with the words she recorded in her diary – the diary of a young Jewish girl. Born June 12, 1929, in Frankfurt, Germany. The Frank family fled Nazi Germany for the relative safety of Amsterdam, the Netherlands after Germany began its campaign in 1939 by attacking Poland. Weeks after receiving a red checkered diary for her 13th birthday, Anneʼs family and the families of her fatherʼs employees were forced into hiding. The year was 1942. Anne and her family survived in hiding in the empty space at the back of her fatherʼs company building. It was here Anne wrote daily. Her diary became a place of solace when despair was overwhelming. In August of 1944, betrayal split her family apart, separating the men from the women. The Germans forced the Franks into hard labor under brutal conditions in concentration camps. Her father would be the only family member to survive. He would later discover Anneʼs diary left behind. Samantha Smith The daughter of an instructor of college literature and a social worker, Samantha Smith, was born June 29, 1972. When she was ten years old, she sought to understand the Cold War between the United States and Russia by writing a letter to the Soviet leader, Yuri Andropov. On April 26, 1983, she received a reply. Andropov addressed each of the young girlʼs questions in a lengthy letter which included an invitation to visit the Soviet Union. Samantha soon became known as “Americaʼs Youngest Ambassador.” She traveled to the Soviet Union and wrote a book about her visit. She traveled the world participating in peacemaking activities and became an actress in the television series Lime Street. Her young life was cut short at the age of 13 when the plane she was traveling in crashed on August 25, 1985. Celebrated bi-annually on the summer solstice and the winter solstice, Anne and Samantha Day honors Anne Frank and Samantha Smith.

How to use a KN95 Mask

3

1

2

KN95

Hold the mask so that the nose wire is on top.

Pull the bottom of the mask over your chin.

Wash your hands with either soap and water or use hand sanitizer before putting it on.

6

5

4

KN95

KN95

KN95

Hold the mask by the ear loops. Place a loop over each ear. If the loops are adjustable, you can tighten or loosen them to fit better.

Pinch the nose wire so it bends to the shape of your nose.

Check the seal of your mask: • Put both of your hands lightly over the front of the mask, covering as much of it as you can. • Breathe out quickly. You should feel air pressure build up inside the mask. • If air leaks near your nose, adjust the nose wire. • If air leaks from around

To take off your mask, hold it by the ear loops and remove it from your face. You can store your mask in a paper bag or another clean, breathable container until you are ready to use it again. If your mask becomes dirty, wet, or hard to breathe through, throw it away and use another one.

the sides of the mask, adjust the ear loops.

National

Insurance

Awareness

Day

June 28th reminds us to check our insurance policies. Here are some tips to help ensure you have the best insurance for your home.

Check Your

Homeowner's

Insurance

June 28th encourages us to review our insurance policies

With risks of fires and floods increasing here in Colorado, now is not the time to skimp on your homeowner's or renter's insurance. Here are the 2 most important insurance tips for older adults, along with a checklist for checking in on your policies. Check your liability coverage According to USA Today, many homeowners increase their coverage as their home increases in value, but they often forget that, as they get older, their 401(k) plans and other defined-contribution plans have increased in value.

Buy enough personal liability coverage to equal your net worth. If you are likely to have helpers in the home, having enough coverage will decrease your risk of being sued.

Sign up for duplicate premium notices It's recommended for older adults should consider designating a child or another trusted younger relative to receive duplicate premium notices. If you don't have a mortgage, then the insurance premium is no longer paid by the bank from the escrow account. Bills are sent directly to the homeowner. It's always a good idea to have a backup, in case of forgetfulness, illness, or any other barriers to receiving and paying the bill, so that your coverage continues.

The Momentum | Spring 2022 | yourvintage.org

Homeowners Insurance:

4 Steps to Follow

Step 1: Create a Home Inventory + Get to Know Your Home Different insurance policies offer different coverage for your personal property items up to your coverage limit. Before meeting with your agent, itʼll be helpful to create a home inventory of all of the assets in your home. Step 2: Get Confident In Your Coverages Learn what coverage you have. Be sure to check on flood and fire coverage, along with any riders that are applicable! Step 3: Meet With Your Insurance Agent Check-in with them and make sure you have answers to all of these questions. 1. How much would it cost to rebuild your home? 2. How much are all of your possessions worth? 3. Do you have jewelry, furs, fine art, silverware, etc? 4. Do you know what replacement cost coverage means? 5. Is your liability insurance enough to protect your assets? 6. Do you know about Additional Living Expense Coverage? 7. Do you need Additional Peril Coverage? 8. Ask about discounts. 9. Know what kind of deductible you want. 10. Ask questions. Step 4: Take Advantage of an Annual Review Set up an annual insurance review to reassess your policy and confirm that your limits meet your needs. It doesnʼt take long to check in with your agent and the peace of mind an updated policy brings is invaluable.

The Momentum | Spring 2022 | yourvintage.org

Voucher Programs

DENTAL VOUCHERS 60 and older $500 for your dental needs at your dentist of choice

D

VISION VOUCHERS 60 and older $150 for vision needs at your eye doctor of choice Additional funding available for vision impairment/blindness

V

IN-HOME SERVICE VOUCHER ( Homemaker, Chore, Personal Care) 60 and older Difficulty shopping, cooking, performing chores, bathing etc. $1000 for your provider of choice

I

TRANSPORTATION VOUCHER 60 and older

T

$500 mileage reimbursement for medical appointments or social trips

Dental and Vision Vouchers Amanda Rens-Moon 970-315-1325 [email protected]

In-Home & Transportation Vouchers Ceci Peterson 970-531-4087 [email protected]

5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE COVID-19 VACCINES

The safety of COVID-19 vaccines is a top priority. Researchers rigorously test vaccines and then the FDA authorizes them before they are available to members of the public. Vaccines must be proven to be safe and effective before they are given to people. The COVID-19 vaccines are no different. It is not possible to get COVID-19 from the vaccines. None of the authorized and recommended COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus that causes COVID-19. This means that a vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19. However, you may feel some side effects after receiving a dose. These symptoms are normal and mean that the body is building protection against COVID-19. COVID-19 vaccines cannot change your DNA. All authorized COVID-19 vaccines teach your body how to make spike proteins like the ones that cover the COVID-19 virus. They do this by giving your body temporary instructions in the form of genetic code. This code goes away after your body builds immunity. It won’t change your DNA. Vaccinations protect you and your community. Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself from getting really sick or dying from COVID-19. It may also reduce the chance that you could spread COVID-19 to others who are more vulnerable. Vaccines will help us get back to what we love. Getting as many people vaccinated as possible will hopefully allow us to achieve widespread community immunity. This past year has been tough, and we’ve suffered through a lot. The vaccines will help us get back to work, back to spending time with family, and back to a more normal life. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and rigorously tested. The vaccines will soon be available for free to anybody who wants one. All available vaccines are shown to be highly effective at preventing moderate, severe, and critical COVID-19 illness, hospitalization, and death.

For more information on the COVID-19 vaccines, please call: 1-877-268-2926 Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Answers available in multiple languages. VACCINE HOTLINE | 1-877-CO VAX CO

HomeFit Guide ™

Smart ways to make a home comfortable, safe and a great fit for older adults — and people of all ages

AARP HomeFit Guide | 1

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 or older to choose how they live as they age. With nearly 38 million members and offices in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families, with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.

AARP 601 E Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20049 Website: AARP.org Phone: Toll-Free: 1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277)

Toll-Free Spanish: 1-877-342-2277 International Calls: +1-202-434-3525 TTY user dial 711 (English: 1-877-434-7598 | Spanish: 1-866-238-9488)

AARP Livable Communities

The first edition of the AARP HomeFit Guide was published in 2010, having originated from a program created by AARP Michigan. Its focus was on the ways older adults could modify their homes in order to safely age-in-place. Over time, the guide has expanded to encourage people of all ages to think about and implement the types of improvements and features that can make where they live a lifelong home. The AARP HomeFit Guide is now part of the AARP Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of local leaders and residents throughout the nation to make their communities more livable and age-friendly.

Website: AARP.org/Livable Email: [email protected] Facebook: @AARPLivableCommunities Twitter: @AARPLivable Free Newsletter: AARP.org/LivableSubscribe or text the word LIVABLE to 50757

Copyright © 2021 by AARP | AARP is a registered trademark. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of AARP, except brief quotations in connection with reviews written specifically for inclusion in magazines, newspapers or websites, or limited excerpts strictly for personal use. Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While AARP has used its best efforts in preparing this publication, it makes no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents, examples, instructions and/or guidance contained herein. The advice and strategies discussed may not be suitable for each reader’s or community’s situation. Consultation with local professionals is advised, and compliance with local regulations is required. AARP shall not be liable for any loss of profit or any other commercial damages, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other types, nor for any injuries to persons or property.  022022

AARPHomeFitGuide Smart ways to make a home comfortable, safe and a great fit for older adults — and people of all ages

Contents 2 A ‘HomeFit’ Home Fits People of All Ages 4 Entrances and Exits 6 The Foyer 8 The Kitchen

What if a home could be suitable for any resident, of any age or physical ability? What if an older adult who wants to live independently despite changing abilities or evolving needs could do just that? The AARP HomeFit Guide was created to help people live safely and comfortably in their home by enabling where they live to be a “lifelong home,” suitable for themselves and others in their household, no matter a person’s age or life stage. The AARP HomeFit Guide can help individuals and families make their current or future residence age-friendly. In addition, elected officials, policymakers and local leaders can learn about and advocate for the types of housing features and designs that communities need so their residents can live safely and comfortably — and thrive.

11 The Dining Area 12 The Living Room 16 Hallways and Stairways 18 The Bedroom 20 Closets 22 The Bathroom 24 The Laundry Area 26 The Garage 28 Outdoor Places and Shared Spaces 30 Home Safe Home 32 Quick Fixes and Harder To-Do’s

Visit AARP.org / HomeFit for related resources and to download or order the AARP HomeFit Guide , which is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese.

A ‘HomeFit’ Home Fits People of All Ages

Barely 1 percent of the nation’s housing supply contains any “universal design” elements — such as single-story living or a sink that can be reached from a wheelchair. 4 Having a no-step way for getting into or out of a home clearly benefits older residents and people who use a wheelchair. But a step-free entrance also helps a parent who’s pushing a stroller, or a teenager with a sports injury, or anyone carrying heavy grocery bags. The reality is few people have the resources to build their perfect home. And it isn’t realistic to expect that a large enough quantity and broad enough variety of housing options will be built soon enough to meet the nation’s diverse and changing needs.

Most houses and apartments are designed for young, able-bodied adults and don’t meet the needs of older residents or people with disabilities. In fact, in many parts of the United States, most housing units were built more than a generation ago to serve a population of family households, generally consisting of two parents and at least two children. But two decades into the 21st century, America is a nation in which the dominant household type — accounting for about 30 percent of all households — consists of single adults living alone. 1 Another 20 percent of Americans reside in a home that’s occupied by three or more generations (a grandparent, an adult child and a grandchild) under one roof. 2 By 2030, one in five people in the U.S. will be age 65 or over. And it’s projected that by 2034, such older adults will outnumber children under 18 for the first time ever. 3 AARP surveys consistently find that older adults want to remain in their current homes and communities for as long as possible. But America’s housing stock doesn’t fit its rapidly changing and rapidly aging population.

That’s where the AARP HomeFit Guide comes in.

When possible, “home-fitting” a residence should take place before easier-to-use home spaces and features become must-haves. The AARP HomeFit Guide examines what makes a home aging-friendly. And it suggests the kinds of designs and modifications that can make a home safer, more comfortable and a better “fit” for its residents — of every age.

1 AARP and the National Building Museum, Making Room: Housing for a Changing America | AARP.org/Making Room (2019) 2 Pew Research Center, “A Record 64 Million Americans Live in Multigenerational Households” (April 5, 2018) 3 U.S. Census Bureau, “Older People Projected to Outnumber Children for the First Time in History” (October 8, 2019) 4 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, “Meeting the Future Housing Needs of Seniors,” PD&R Edge (November 2017) 5 Community Aging-in-Place – Advancing Better Living for Elders (CAPABLE), Johns Hopkins School of Nursing

2 | AARP HomeFit Guide