Looking for Assisted Living?

Assisted living must knows in Colorado // Are you looking into Assisted Livings and need to know the down and dirty? Do you want to know about up front fees, specific age requirements, and all the things no one tells you. Maintain Me goes over all the specifics of assisted livings in Colorado. If you are looking to move to assisted living or community living do not move until you watch this first as Colorado we see different things in each community. In this informative video, Maintain Me will educate you on the 5 must-know things about assisted living.

Whether you're considering moving into an assisted living community yourself, or helping a loved one make the transition, it's crucial to understand what is standard and what is unique to each community. In this video, you'll learn about entrance fees and other costs associated with assisted living, as well as the age requirements for residents. You'll also gain insight into the different levels of care offered in these communities, and what to expect in terms of cost for each level.

Maintain Me will also provide valuable tips on how to choose the right assisted living community for your needs, and what to look for when visiting potential communities. If you're considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one, this video is a must-watch. Let Maintain Me help guide you through this important decision and provide you with the information you need to make the best choice for your unique situation.


State Survey Info: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/find-and-c... 🚨
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Colorado Senior Lobby is Changing

Colorado Senior Lobby has announced that starting in June 2021, the organization is changing its name to the Colorado Center for Aging (CCA). This change does not alter the fundamental mission of continuing to strengthen the aging network by raising the voice of older Coloradans.

Why the change? Much has changed since the Colorado Senior Lobby was formed forty years ago. Today, the word “lobby” has negative connotations and we do not want the issues of older Coloradans to be lost. Updating our image and raising our voice is critical to our success.

We are committed to continuing to serve our members and all people in every part of our state. To accomplish this goal, we require a steady stream of funding. This change includes a new 501c3 tax status for the Colorado Center for Aging which will allow us to be eligible for more funding opportunities.

During the summer months we will be holding CCA Advocacy Committee meetings with Zoom, and we welcome all members and guests that would like to connect with us on aging issues and have discussions on how to take an active interest in aging issues in Colorado. Attend a meeting and then consider becoming a member and lend your voice and support to our Mission.

On June 16th from 4PM to 6PM we are having a Virtual Happy Hour celebrating the launch of Colorado Center for Aging. Join us as we showcase the new website, play trivia, and enjoy conversation. Visit our Eventbrite page to register – https://tinyurl.com/k39cwhz4

To find out more about the Colorado Center for Aging, check out our new website at:
www.ColoradoCenterforAging.org.

Salute to Seniors

Exhibit Booth, Sponsorships and Media Buys

The Colorado Gerontological Society and Channel2 News are partnering to bring you the 34th Annual Salute to Seniors

May 20, 2023 - In-person, Denver Marriott Tech Center

May 21, 2023 - Zoom

The Salute will feature Entertainment, Bingo, Information, “How to . . . Sessions”, Prizes, Auto Show, and More

Advertising and Marketing to a target older adult audience at reasonable prices

For More Information 303-333-3482

5 Tips When Selecting an Inpatient Rehab Center

Looking for Inpatient Rehabilitation?

In this video, we will be discussing the top five things to consider when choosing an inpatient rehabilitation center after your loved one is being discharged from the hospital. Making the decision to get physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and nursing assistance after a change of condition can ensure that you are able to return back to your previous home.

Our team of experienced professionals will guide you through the rehabilitation process, sharing insights and knowledge to help you make an informed decision. We'll cover topics such as insurance, surveys, location, touring, and support.

First, we'll discuss the importance of insurance coverage and understanding what your policy covers when it comes to long-term care.
Next, we'll go over the significance of survey results and how to access this information to help you make an informed choice. Location is also a crucial factor, as being close to family and friends can make a big difference in overall well-being. We'll talk about what to look for in a nursing home location and how to evaluate potential options. Touring is another essential component of the decision-making process. We'll discuss why it's crucial to tour the facility and what to look for during your visit.
Lastly, we'll touch on the importance of support, including the role of staff, family involvement, and community resources.

At Maintain Me Senior Services, we understand the unique challenges that come with aging and how to ensure a loved one can age in place. Our goal is to empower seniors and their families with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions and ensure the highest quality of life. So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into the top five things to consider when discharging from the hospital and choosing a rehab.

State Survey Info: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/find-and-c... 🚨
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Add Some Green to Your Home

At Home With Your Houseplants

Have you been wanting to green up your home but are unsure where to start? Or maybe you want to go beyond just a spider plant or all-forgiving pothos? This is a tour of some of our favorite houseplants to inspire you to create (or expand) your own interior home garden. Highlighted plants range from tropical beauties with luscious green leaves to sun-loving, desert-evoking cacti.

Price: $16, $8 member, $5 student

• Tour prices include admission to the Gardens.

• Tours are mainly outdoors; dress accordingly for the weather. Water, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended.

• Please plan to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the start time of your tour. Tours meet in the lobby of the Boettcher Memorial Center.

• Denver Botanic Gardens strives to be inclusive and accessible for all. Email us at tours@botanicgardens.org if any special accommodations are needed for your tour.

Advocate for Change

Has anyone ever said to you, or perhaps you to another person, “You look great for your age.” Although probably well-intentioned, there is an inherent bias against growing older contained within this ‘compliment’, an underlying expectation that you wouldn’t or shouldn’t look great as an older adult.  Do we offer the same compliment to a 19-year-old or a 29-year-old?  Somewhere along the way looking great is not associated with advanced years.

Ageism is all around us; in the workplace, in commercials, movies and tv shows we watch, in the cards we buy, the products marketed to us, and yes, even in the language we speak.

What about the phrase “senior moment?”  We tend to attach a brief lapse in memory to only the older adult.  However, elementary students routinely forget where they’ve left their backpacks or to feed the dog.  Many teenagers have misplaced earbuds or sports jerseys. What about the Mom or Dad who searches for the car keys or goes out to the garage and upon their arrival, forgets the item they went there to retrieve?  The fact of the matter is that we all experience momentary forgetfulness throughout our lives. Yet it is emphasized when it happens as an older adult.  And no, it’s not necessarily a sign of dementia, but rather a manifestation of our busy lives.

Ageism is discrimination or the devaluing of an individual or group of individuals based solely on their age. And it can be directed toward the young as well as older adults. It creeps into our psyche at a very young age and is continually reinforced throughout our lifetime. As a result, many of us are convinced that young people are not able to lead a workgroup, offer valuable ideas and solutions to societal issues or are not compassionate towards others.  On the other hand, society in general believes that as we age, we have nothing more to offer, obstruct the success of younger people on the way up the corporate ladder or are a drain on the economy.  None of this is true.

Subtle and not-so-subtle messages about the aging process surround us each day.  Do we recognize them and realize the negative effect they have on us? Can we affect a change in how we all think, speak and act about aging?  Gretchen Lopez, Chair of the Seniors’ Council of Douglas County, will deliver a thought-provoking and entertaining presentation on Thursday, May 4th at 10 am at the Parker Library.  And we won’t be asking for birth certificates at the door, so leave those at home!  Meetings are free and open to the public.

Seniors’ Council of Douglas County is for older adults who want to be heard, keep learning, and make a difference. Please check our website for details and possible program changes at https://www.douglas.co.us/community-services/services/senior-services/seniors-council/

New Video - 5 Things to Consider

In this video, we'll be discussing five essential factors to consider when looking for a nursing home or rehabilitation facility. As aging adults, it's important to understand the differences between the two, as well as regulations and funding. Our team of knowledgeable professionals will provide insights on the critical topics to consider, including state surveys, regulations, location, who pays for the care, and touring. First, we'll explain the difference between a nursing home and rehab facility, as well as the benefits of each. It's essential to know which type of care is required for you or your loved one's specific needs. We'll also discuss the importance of state surveys and regulations when selecting a nursing home or rehab facility. Understanding how these facilities are monitored and evaluated can give you peace of mind and assurance in your decision. Location is another critical factor to consider, especially for families and friends who wish to visit their loved ones regularly. We'll discuss what to look for in a location and how to assess the accessibility of the facility. Additionally, funding for long-term care can be complicated, and we'll dive into the various payment options, including private insurance and government programs. Finally, we'll talk about the importance of touring the facility, what to look for during your visit, and how to make an informed decision about your or your loved one's care.

Eligible Older Adults May Receive Hundreds Of Dollars In Refunds, Rebates

Denver, Colo. – The cost of housing, taxes and utilities has Coloradoans concerned, especially older adults on fixed incomes. Older Coloradoans may qualify for hundreds of dollars in refunds and rebates depending on income.  

Colorado taxpayers are eligible to receive another Tabor Refund, similar to the Colorado Cash Back.  However, individuals need to apply again to receive the 2023 refund.  Low income individuals earning less than $25,000 annually will receive $153 by filing the Colorado Income Tax Form DR0104.

Coloradoans over 65 can receive the $1000  Affordable Housing Income Tax Credit if they  have less than $25,000 annual income.  To claim the Tax Credit, if you do not have any taxable wages, file both the Colorado Income Tax Form DR0104 and DR0104CR.  

Individuals earning up to $75,000 are eligible for the Affordable Housing Income Tax Credit, if they do not receive the Senior Property Tax Exemption.  Individuals who make more than $25,000 per year will need to file a Federal Income Tax Form 1040, a Colorado Income Tax Form DR0104 and a DR0104CR.  Individuals whose annual  income is between $25,000 and $75,000 will receive a prorated income tax credit depending on adjusted gross income.

Low income individuals who make less than $16,925 per year ($22,858 for a couple) and who paid rent, heat or property taxes, can qualify a refund.  To apply, you must be age 65 or disabled and file the PTC104.

Utility assistance is available through LEAP for individuals whose income is less $2880 per month ($3,766 for a couple).  Individuals must pay for heat as part of the rent or to a utility company. Applications are due by April 30, 2023.

If you need forms or instructions, call 303-333-3482 or 1-855-293-6911 (toll free) or 1-866-880-4777 (Spanish) or visit www.senioranswers.org. 

Assisted Living Vs. Personal Home Care

Many people know the word board and care home or personal care home, now known as residential home for assisted living. What they do not know is at what point does a senior need a personal care home versus a small or even larger assisted living.

Community living is not that black and white but Maintain Me talks about some of the main differences between a personal care home and these other larger communities. What are things that may sway a senior to choose one over the other and the complexities of the two.

If you are looking to move into a senior living community, nursing homes are not the only option, Maintain Me teaches all about your choices and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Don't move into an assisted living before watching this first!

Denver Home Show

The Denver Home Show returns to the National Western Complex Friday, March 24 through Sunday, March 26, 2023. This is the ideal place to find great deals, new ideas, and practical advice, with trusted local professionals to make your dream home a reality. Three days only to shop, compare, and save with more than 250 experts in kitchens and baths, landscaping, flooring, décor and more all under one roof.  Save yourself from remodeling disasters with advice from Rico León, host of HGTV’s “Rico to the Rescue.” Plus, learn about skoolie and van living and don’t miss the Sogetsu Ikebana Flower Display where you will dive into Japanese culture with live floral arrangement demos and workshops. For more information, to plan your trip and save on tickets visit, denverhomeshow.com.

SPECIALS: Hero Day is on Friday, March 24. All active military personal, veteran, first responders, and health care workers will get FREE admission with valid ID. Teacher Day is on Sunday, March 26. All teachers and school employees receive FREE admission at the box office with valid ID.

WHAT:   Denver Home Show

WHERE:  National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt Street, Denver, CO 80216

WHEN:   Friday, March 24, 2023 :: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, March 25, 2023 :: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday, March 26, 2023 :: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

TICKETS:        Ticket prices start at $10 with online advance purchase and $12 during the show.

Single day tickets are priced as follows:
Adults (13+) at Box Office: $12
ONLINE Advanced Adults: $10 discounted rate through March 23.
Starting opening day price will increase to $12 online, same as box office pricing.
Seniors (60+): $7 at the box office or online                   
Children (12 and under): FREE

TICKET URL:     denverhomeshow.mpetickets.com

Entertaining Older Adults

Watch Free Live Nature Cameras

Preventing boredom in seniors is a great way to improve mood, reduce agitation and anxiety, and improve quality of life overall.

Many people enjoy nature scenes and observing animals in their natural habitat, but are limited by mobility or what’s near their window or home.

We found a wonderful free website with live camera feeds from places all around the world.

From the comfort of home, watch horses in Kentucky, a tropical reef aquarium in California, the Northern Lights in Canada, pandas in China, beautiful sunsets in Hawaii, and more!

We explain how to use the website and share some of our favorite live camera feeds.

How Has COVID Changed Community Living?

How has COVID changed community living?  Maintain Me Senior Services covers a comprehensive overview discussing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the aging population.

The video covers five topics, the beginning of the pandemic, the adjustment phase in community living, the new normal, the fear of it happening again, and even the positive side of the pandemic.

If you have considered moving into independent living, assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing facility (nursing home) this is a must see video!

Don't let fear keep you from having a great quality of living, we are here to show you how things have grow as an industry to best serve our seniors.

Congratulations Morgan!

Maintain Me is so proud to announce that we have another CPRS certification in the team. Morgan is the Director of Transition Services with Maintain Me and is always looking for ways to learn. She is on the board of Colorado Placement Referral Alliance (CoPRA) and on the Governance Committee. We as a team could not be more proud of her and her accomplishments. GREAT JOB MORGAN for passing the test and now becoming a CRPS certified Transition Director!

New YouTube Video!

Can I get paid to take care of my loved one?

Maintain Me is pleased to welcome Cassie Angerer with PASCO (Personal Assistance Services of Colorado) as she shares her incredible knowledge around the Family Caregiver Program for Older Adults. We were asked this question on our YouTube channel and wanted to come with the local expert to tell all! 

A big thank you to Cassie for taking time out of her busy day to help us learn about this incredible program as well as a big shout out to Benefits in Action. These individuals are out there creating change and making a big difference in the community, and we want you to know how much we appreciate you!
 

Breakfast with COPRA

Date: March 6th, 2023
Time: 9:00 AM-10:30 AM
Location: Colorado State Capitol Building
200 E Colfax Ave Denver, CO 80203
North Side, 2nd Floor, Outside the Old Supreme Court Chamber
Co-PRA Members: $40
Non-CoPRA Members: $50

Details: Parking is located on Grant Street on the east side of the Capitol building. It is $15 for the day.  There are other parking lots within a few blocks of the building on Capitol Hill. The metered parking in the immediate area is closed for staff during the Legislative Session. You will enter the building on the south side ground floor. Be prepared to go through security. 

Why do I have to pay to go?
Last year we went over budget for food.
We will have additional handouts created to handout
Any additional money will be saved in our local CoPRA account for events and expenses in the future

How to Pay?
Zelle: Use phone number 720-614-7859, Account - Greater Denver Colorado Placement 
Check (made to Greater Denver Placement Referral) or Cash

Subscribe Now!

If You Haven't Subscribed...

THE TIME IS NOW!

Maintain Me will be releasing one video a week as well as shorts filled with education, resources, and more. We will have special guests as well as our team of experts sharing all the information you need when navigating the care continuum. 

We believe education is how we continue to grow while also serving our aging population, so please follow along with us, learn with us, grow with us!

Take a Stand on SB23-063

This past Thursday, Morgan testified on the Senate Floor before the Committee, speaking against SB23-063. The Bill challenges current Statue "Family Choice". Chelsea and other outstanding members of CoPRA Leadership worked with our Local Lobbyist and team Kyle Hays Group, to get passed in 2019 & 2020. 


Here are a few moments from the day: 

Morgan says, "An incredible experience to use my voice in the proper channels of my local government and have it actually be heard. I encourage everyone to experience this and speak up for something important to them. Win or lose. The whole process took about five hours. (Hanging at the Capital was amazing, the building is stunning and rich with history.) We met ahead of time to polish our notes with any new information gathered by our Lobbying Pros and basically stand together and wait for our turns to speak. If you're in our industry, you will notice familiar faces and there's many more I didn't capture. We were ready and everyone did well with their testimony. If it passes Committee, we will have to testify again before the House." 

New Social Security Administration Tool!

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability or blindness who have income and resources below specific financial limits.  SSI payments are also made to people age 65 and older who meet the requirements.  A person who is approved for SSI may also be eligible for other benefits such as medical, food, or housing assistance.

If you know someone who may be able to get SSI, please encourage them to use the  electronic SSI Protective Filing tool to tell SSI they want to apply.  Parents, family members, representatives, staff, and others may also use the tool which will establish a protective filing date. The protective filing date determines when benefits can begin if we approve the application.

Most Social Security services are available online at www.ssa.gov, by calling Social Security toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or by contacting your local Social Security office. 

Helping Families Search for Housing and Homecare

TOPIC
Helping Families Search for Housing and Homecare for Loved Ones

DATE/TIME
March 30, 2023
1:30 to 3:30 pm (in-person)
Virginia Village Library, 1500 S Dahlia St, Denver

April 6, 2023
1:30 to 3:30 pm (zoom)
Register


SPEAKER:
Jack Rouff
Colorado Gerontological Society

TOPIC:
The Housing and Home Care Locator is a guide for families who are searching for help to care for a loved one in their own home or who are facing decisions to place a loved one in an assisted living or nursing home.

The Housing and Home Care Locator is a searchable data base of all licensed home care agencies, hospices, adult day programs, nursing homes, assisted living residences, independent living communities and low to moderate income housing programs.

The Locator is searchable by place, payment type, cost, services, licensure, survey findings and more.

Not sure what type of service you need, complete our "Help Me Find Services" questionnaire to help guide you to the right service.

Join us for a demo and to learn more about finding help to keep a loved one safe.

Maintain Me is on YouTube!

Maintain Me Takes Education to the NEXT LEVEL

Find Us On YOUTUBE

Maintain Me truly believes that education is part of creating change and informed consumers. We believe in making a difference with every conversation we have and since we try to help as many families as we can, we have expanded to the largest DIY video platform there is, YOUTUBE. If you are looking to learn more about the senior care world, go check it out! We are helping people in and out of state with this new outreach tool. 

https://www.youtube.com/@MaintainMe