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This guide has been designed in partnership with 9NEWS, the Colorado Department of Human Services, Rose Community Foundation, and the Denver Regional Council of Governments to help answer questions all of us have about getting older.
Senior Source provides information on transportation, health, Medicare, housing, food and nutrition, arts and recreation, support groups, financial planning, fraud protection, work/family and caregiving. In addition you will find an easy to use phone book with direct phone numbers as well as a dedicated Spanish section. Each month we will also highlight a specific topic of particular importance. In addition to the information on the website, this topic will be showcased on 9NEWS (Channel 9).
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 End of Life Issues
Palliative care is for persons with serious, advanced,
chronic illness.
Hospice care is for persons in the final months of life.
Both offer a team of professionals working to meet your
needs, your goals for comfort and your peace of mind.
Both put the control back where it belongs – with you
and your family.
Partnering with you, your family and
friends, on the final journey of your life.
The Colorado Center for Hospice & Palliative Care is a
statewide nonprofit organization working to increase
access to palliative and hospice services and promote
quality standards of care for all Coloradans.
The Center can:
• help you understand your situation and your options
• answer pressing questions about care and other
critical resources
• connect you with palliative care and hospice
services across the state
• inform you about options for payment, insurance
& Medicare/Medicaid benefits
Click the links below for more information:
CCHPC website
CCHPC brochure
CCHPC Search - Find a Provider
Read more about the process and find resources for End of Life Issues. 
National Institutes of Health:
Medicare Information for Caregivers Now Available on
NIH SeniorHealth
An easy-to-read overview, Medicare Basics for Caregivers, is now available at NIHSeniorHealth.gov, the Web site for older adults from the National Institutes of Health.
This brief, yet comprehensive introduction to Medicare gives caregivers the basics and helps them find answers to their questions.
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 2009 Senior Law Book
Estate planning, living wills, even complex Medicaid law, these issues will likely affect you and your loved ones.
Getting legal information now can ease the stress of tackling important legal issues later.
Get your FREE copy of the 2009 Senior Law Book, courtesy of SeniorSource, Rose Community Foundation, Colorado Health Foundation and the Colorado Bar Association.
The entire contents of the Senior Law Handbook, 2009 Edition are provided by Continuing Legal Education in Colorado, Inc. and can be accessed electronically at the COBAR website.
To receive your free 2009 Senior Law Handbook
in the mail,
CLICK HERE
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 Going Back to Work?
Some of the benefits of hiring workers that are 50+
• stability
• experience & knowledge
• maturity
• ability to train and mentor others
• schedule flexibility
• empty nesters
• work ethic
• loyalty
• understanding of change
• knowledge of building relationships with associates and customers
Finding jobs in these economic times can be tough. Here are some places to start:
CareerBuilder on 9News
Colorado Experience Bank
SeniorSource's Work section
Senior Job Bank in Colorado
Colorado Workforce
Career OneStop
This document contains a newspaper article and an academic publication about attracting retirees to work again.  |
 Grandparents Raising Grandkids
All parents face stress in raising children on a routine basis.
However, grandparents face the additional stress of being “repeat parents” which is quite unique. Research shows that networks of support are crucial for grandparents raising grandchildren. It can often seem to grandparent caregivers that they are alone in a huge endeavor.
CSU Extension has established a website designed especially for grandparents and kinship caregivers at http://www.ext.colostate.edu/grg
This Online Support website includes a blog, a listing of support groups in Colorado, frequently asked questions, publications, and links to other resource guides. The purpose of this resource is to increase grandparents’ knowledge about the issues affecting them, while empowering and uniting grandparents who may feel isolated, invisible, or overwhelmed. Please visit this site and feel free to share this resource with others.
Click here for a one page promotional flyer and
and here for a
brochure
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 A Killer Lurking In Your House?
Each year, 300 Colorado seniors die and over 9,000 are hospitalized for fall-related injuries
Facts:
• 19,000 Americans die each year from slips and falls and 8 million are hurt or hospitalized.
• In Colorado, we have over 300 deaths from falls yearly, and over 9,000 people age 65 and older are hospitalized for fall-related injuries.
• Costs for older adults hospitalized for fall-related injuries in Colorado total more than $263 million each year.
• Falls are the #1 cause of injury-related deaths for people age 64 and older. One of every three adults age 65 and older is injured in a fall each year.
Click here to read more
also visit
www.FallPreventionNetwork.com |
Colorectal Cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States, but it doesn’t have to be. If everyone age 50 or older had a regular screening test, at least one-third of deaths from this cancer could be avoided. So if you are 50 or older, start screening now. For more information, visit http://www.cdc.gov/screenforlife
or click on the PDF link to read more about Colon Cancer
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a long term or recurring disorder of gastrointestinal functioning. It usually involves the large (colon) and small intestine with disturbances of intestinal/gut motility (motor function), sensation and secretion. For more information, visit http://www.iffgd.org
or click on the PDF link to read more about IBS
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, part of the National Institutes of Health, recommends that people over age 65 who choose to drink have no more than one drink a day. Drinking at this level usually is not associated with health risks. For more information, visit http://www.niaaa.nih.gov
or click on the PDF link to read more about alcohol consumption
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Staying Independent -- from the CERAP newsletter
Colorado Coalition for Elder Rights and Adult Protection
A new phrase often heard is “aging in place.” Instead of moving toward institutional care,
people are adapting their homes and rethinking their lifestyles in order to keep the familiar roof
over their heads. People don’t go to a nursing home just because they are old. It is only when
aging results in a disability that independence comes into question.
Now there are so many
options for mitigating disability that, in most cases, nursing home care seems absurd. The old
stigma of using mobility devices or other assistive technology is quickly being replaced by the
pride and dignity of using whatever it takes to live independently at home. Click here to read more. |
Centers for Independent Living
CIL's
are staffed with people who have disabilities, understand disability, and believe in your right to
make your own choices. All ten Colorado CILs offer the free core services of: information and referral, peer support,
advocacy, and independent living skills training. Several of the centers are partners in the new AT Network which hosts a
Senior from Colorado Senior Employment Program, trained by AT Partners, to provide information about access to assistive
technology. CILs are committed to community living for people with disabilities of any age.
For information about a CIL near
you, go to the Statewide Independent Living Council website at www.coloradosilc.org or phone Judy Neal at 303-866-4645.
Click here to read more about CIL's and adaptive technologies. |
Substance Abuse and Misuse in Seniors
The Geriatric Mental Health Foundation provides information about substance abuse and misuse among older adults.
American Psychological Association
Click here for information that addresses the mental health needs of older adults.
The document outlines what is gero-psychology, the growing need for pyschological services for older adults, and physical and mental health care.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
This website outlines health information for older adults ranging from
• health-related behaviors
•
mental health
• injuries
• infectious diseases
and other issues that affect older adults
How to Cope
Mental Health America of Colorado has provided this site with information about mental health topics that that affect older adults.
Topics incude:
• How to cope
• Alzheimer's and Dimentia
• Suicide and Depression
• tips to improve mental health
Is Retirement in your near future?
Looking forward to retirement is a life-long goal and dream but do you know when you are eligible and what your Social Security retirement benefits will pay?
Click here for more information from the Senior Law Handbook about retiring and your Social Security benefits.
 Click here to go to the Social Security Administration website.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT
FINANCIAL PLANNING
 Many adult children who are caregivers for frail parents have primary responsibility for administering medicines. Yet even active older adults who care for themselves may need help in taking medicines safely and appropriately. Here are some ideas from the National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE), for helping parents who are not in your care to make good use of their medicines. The time you take now can help your parents stay independent longer.
 Staying healthy and looking good are two main wishes of today's seniors. Exercising and eating right are important. Equally important as good general health for seniors is good oral care of teeth and gums. Simply by brushing twice a day with fluoride, toothpaste and flossing daily seniors can avoid many oral health problems. Regular dental checkups and having their teeth professionally cleaned are also important. Click here for oral care health tips.
 Senior Veterans of our nation’s Armed Forces are eligible for numerous benefits as a result of their service to our country. Of the 25 million veterans currently living, nearly three of every four served during a war or an official period of hostility. About a quarter of America’s population - approximately 70 million people - are potentially eligible for benefits and services because they are veterans, family members or survivors of veterans. From insurance to health guidance, it’s worth exploring the resources available to those who have sacrificed so much to preserve our freedom.
The Senior Law Book has an extensive explanation of Veteran benefits. Learn more:
Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs
The Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs is the state agency created to assist veterans and their family members and survivors in securing any benefits they may be entitled to because of service in the military. Learn more: VA Health Care Eligibility And Enrollment
Learn about the U.S. Department of Veterans Affair’s medical benefits package and the health care services provided to all enrolled veterans: Life Insurance 
The VA’s life insurance programs were developed to provide insurance benefits for veterans and service members who may not be able to qualify for insurance from private companies due to the extra risks involved in military service, or a service connected disability: Pharmacy Benefits
The mission of the VA’s Pharmacy Benefits Management Strategic Healthcare Group is to improve the health status of veterans by encouraging the appropriate use of medications in a comprehensive medical care setting. Learn more: Colorado Property Tax Exemption
Disabled veterans may qualify for property tax exemption. The link below contains an application form and phone number for more information: Colorado State And Veterans Nursing Homes
The Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) is committed to providing superior care for Colorado’s Veterans and all other residents in our State and Veterans Nursing Homes. Learn more at: Burial & Memorial Benefits
Veterans are entitled to important burial and memorial benefits. Get facts, information and details about these benefits:
Veterans History Project
Authorized by Congress, the Veterans History Project is an effort by the Library of Congress to preserve our nation’s history by collecting the stories and experiences of America's war veterans and the people who supported them at home:
Don't Become a Victim!
Find ways to protect yourself from street crime, frauds and scams, emotional and physical abuse, financial swindles and other vulnerable aspects of senior life.
Protecting Yourself from Crime
Protect Yourself from Frauds and Scams
Colorado Coalition for Elder Rights and Adult Protection (CCERAP)
CCERAP's mission is to educate and facilitate the first positive steps to resolving or moving out of an abusive situation that elder and at-risk adults may find themselves in.
CCERAP provides statewide information and training about the abuse of elder and at-risk adults and promote projects, publications and activities that benefits elder and at-risk adults.
We also provide support for laws, regulations, and policies that promote the rights of elder and at-risk adults.
CCERAP also works to provide opportunites for professionals to meet, share information, address policy issues and develop strategies for increase service coordination.
The National Center on Elder Abuse can help if you fear yourself or a loved one is in danger of fraud or physical abuse.
Click here to see the National Center on Elder Abuse PSA's
If you suspect elder abuse, neglect or exploitation, please call 1-800-677-1116. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or the local police for immediate help.
Assisted Living and Nursing Homes
What are the six key steps to selecting a good assisted living residence or nursing home?
Compare Nursing Homes in your area in your area
End-of-Life Decisions
In the event of no longer being able to communicate, how will you convey your wishes? With a Medical Advance Directive legal document, your very important desires concerning your care and disposition can be communicated.
Read More
AARP's End Of Life Resources
Hospice and Palliative Care
Hospice and palliative care are both options for those suffering from terminal and non-terminal illnesses. Find out what the difference is between the two and how to find, pay for and choose the right care option for you or a loved one.
Request a Senior Law Handbook
Power of Attorney
If you become incapacitated, your Power of Attorney can make important decisions on your behalf.
Answers to all your questions about Power of Attorney can be found here.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Wills, Estate Planning and Trusts
Estate planning, wills and trusts can become very complex. Find answers to common questions and an easily-understood discussion of the options available to distribute your personal property after you die.
Learn more: Re
Medicare Drug Insurance and You:
Colorado Options 2008
Request a Senior Law Handbook
End Of Life Care
 Making decisions for a loved one or ourselves about end of life care can be difficult and emotional. The one area that most of us avoid planning is the end of our life. Yet, if we don't at least think about it and share our ideas with those we love, others take over at the very time when we are most vulnerable, most in need of understanding and comfort, and most longing for dignity.
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Knowing Your Rights & Understanding The Laws
That Affect Seniors |
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 Estate planning, living wills and complex Medicaid laws are major issues that are likely affect you and your loved ones. By seeking legal advice now, you’re taking an important step in easing the stress of tackling legal issues later. Fortunately, there are a number of helpful resources to help you understand the rights and laws that affect seniors.
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Civic Engagement / Volunteerism |
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Giving Your Time & Talents
 In Colorado, seniors give back to our communities in countless invaluable ways by volunteering, care giving and through paid work. In 2004, the value of volunteer contributions by older adults in our state was estimated at more than $1.6 billion! If strategically mobilized, the powerful resource of an aging “Baby Boomer” population could increasingly fill our society’s gaps in the areas of education, health care and family support.
 “Civic engagement means working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference. It means promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes.” Civic Responsibility and Higher Education
Contrary to popular perception, the aging of the significant increase in the Baby Boom population presents our nation with a potentially powerful resource opportunity. If strategically mobilized, older adults can increasingly fill gaps in areas such as education, health care, and family support. |
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Tax Refund Anticipation Loans (BEWARE) |
The need for good nutrition does not diminish as a person ages. It is essential for older adults to maintain a proper diet to stay healthy and independent in their later, more vulnerable years.
Senior Nutrition & Creative Meal Sharing:
Eating well as we grow older is important. Numerous benefits of a healthy diet and proper nutrition include: increased mental acuteness; resistance to illness and disease; higher energy levels; a more robust immune system; faster recuperation times, and; better management of chronic health problems. |
The following are signs that may indicate abuse, exploitation or neglect are occurring: |
What is depression?Click to enlarge image
Depression is more than just feeling blue or sad. It is an illness. When you have depression, it interferes with daily life and normal functioning, and causes pain for both you and those who care about you. |
Learn more about depression from the National Institute of Mental Health. |
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