AARP Colorado

By Danica Lucker

Have you received a phone call or a postcard in the mail offering you a back brace or knee brace? It is not uncommon for Medicare beneficiaries to receive these types of solicitations, even when your doctor has not deemed a medical device necessary. Often the “salesperson” will tell you that the product will help you and it’s “free” because it’s “covered by Medicare.” They will also request lots of personal information, including your Social Security number. If you receive one of these solicitations here a few tips to remember:

Join AARP Colorado for NeighborWalks Colorado Springs. Enjoy guided walks through some of Colorado Springs' most beautiful and interesting neighborhoods. Come meet others in your community, learn the history and join the fun. Walks will be led by a local historian.

Please join AARP at Foothills Art Center to view 3 Scientists, 3 Artists, 3 Forms; An Exhibition of Stone on Friday, September 15, 2017. AARP members will enjoy free admission from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The American Red Cross is seeking people to volunteer their time and help save lives at the Sound the Alarm home fire safety and smoke alarm installation events beginning September 23 through October 14. Most events are Saturday morning from 8:30-12:30, there are 19 different events across Colorado. Sound the Alarm in Colorado is part of the nationwide Red Cross effort to help reduce the number of deaths and injuries from home fires. By volunteering with the Red Cross, you can truly make a difference in someone’s life. Please join us and help Sound the Alarm by volunteering

Over the past twelve years, I have presented thousands of programs on various aspects of caregiving. I can’t discuss caregiving without addressing the issue of CHANGE. I always ask those in attendance if they welcome and enjoy CHANGE. CHANGE. The word alone triggers anxiety, fear, and discomfort. People squirm in their seats. Look at me in disbelief. Groan loudly! Or laugh nervously. Obviously, CHANGE is not a pleasant experience for most us. However, CHANGE is an inherent part of life—certainly an abiding aspect of caregiving. CHANGE is inevitable and unavoidable. So, instead of fearing CHANGE, let’s understand and effectively deal with CHANGE. The bi-weekly podcast is free and available four ways:

Throughout life, many of us find ourselves with multiple opportunities to invent and reinvent our destinies. A chance to start anew, regardless of age, background or circumstance.

Working family caregivers face unique challenges that can leave them exhausted, overwhelmed, and worried about meeting commitments both at work and at home. New research by Home Instead Inc. found working family caregivers report experiencing additional strain in multiple areas of their life including finances (60%), career (65%), physical and mental health (74% and 81% respectively), and ability to manage work-life balance (83%).

People age 50+ receive free admission to Denver Botanic Gardens, where they can explore a wide range of gardens and collections that illustrate the diversity of plants from all corners of the world. See how the distinctive gardens define and celebrate our Western identity, and a unique high altitude climate and geography.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is looking to expand its team of volunteers for the upcoming tax season. Approaching its 50 th year, Tax-Aide offers free tax filing help to anyone, especially those 50 and older, who can’t afford a tax preparation service. Tax-Aide volunteers make a difference in their communities by assisting many older, lower-income taxpayers who might otherwise miss out on the credits and deductions they’ve earned.