January/February 2018 | Volume 31 | Issue 1

The most important organ in your body.It’s been 50 years since Lyndon Johnson declared February as American Heart Month. While the rate of heart disease has steadily declined since then, it still remains the number-one killer. Heredity factors can cause heart disease, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure, while obesity, tobacco use, physical activity and alcohol abuse are a few of the risk factors that impact heart health.

As we all know, the steps we need to take to reduce the risk of dying from heart disease are directly related to the risk factors. They include:

• Stop smoking.• Improve cholesterol levels.• Control high blood pressure.• Get active.• Follow a heart-healthy diet.• Attain and maintain a

healthy weight.• Control diabetes.• Manage stress and

anger levels.

There’s a lot you can do to lower your odds of getting heart disease, and this is a great time to start. Keeping the heart in mind, the Aspen Club is honored to feature two UCHealth cardiologists to recognize American Heart Month in Loveland. Join us for the following programs:

• Heart rhythms, pulse: The fascinating world of cardiac electrophysiology.2–3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15Chilson Senior CenterSee page 9 for details.

• Things people ask their cardiologist and the answers.12:30–1:30 p.m.Tuesday, Feb. 6MCR Longs Peak classroomSee page 9 for details.

Happy New Year to you. H appiness depends on

your outlook on life. Find the good in all situations.

A ttitude is just as importantas ability. Keep your attitude positive.

P assion. Find yours this year. Do what you love, and it will never feel like work.

P ositive thoughts makeeverything easier. Stay focused and positive.

Y ou are unique, withspecial gifts. Use them and never forget you have talent.

N ew beginnings start witha new year.

E nthusiasm is the truesecret to success.

W ishes and dreams. Mayyours be fulfilled.

Y ears go by too quickly—enjoy them.

E nergy. May you havelots of it.

A ppreciation of life. Don’ttake it for granted. Live each day.

R elax. Take the time to relaxthis year. Keep balance in your life.

Jill Taylor, UCHealth Aspen Club Supervisor

From the Aspen Club office.• Our Medicare program

served close to 5,000 people in consultations, education classes and outreach efforts.

• The people we counseled about Prescription Drug Plans collectively saved over $550,000.

Members also enjoyed a Nurture Your Soul in the Mountains three-day adventure, where they learned healthful meditation practices and enjoyed laughter, retirement and disease prevention programs. The top health interests indicated by members include women’s health, memory and brain programs, nutrition and arthritis, so be on the watch for more programs that address those issues.

So, without losing a beat, 2018, here we come! Good health, happiness and humor to you!

Jill TaylorUCHealth Senior ServicesAspen Club Supervisor

Greetings,

As we happily head into the new year, I want to share a few highlights from 2017 that kept us busy:

• We added close to 1,000 new members.

• More than 17,000 members participated in our programs, services and events.

• In caregiver classes, 90 percent of the participants gained the confidence they needed to deal with the day-to-day stress caregiving brings.

• In both Tai Chi and Stepping On fall-prevention classes, people improved 80 percent in fall-risk measures.

• 60 percent of participants improved memory scores in our UCLA Memory Fitness classes.

• More than 1,000 people attended classes on advanced directives and/or completed these important documents.

• Over 300 people attended our annual skin cancer screenings.

• During our Fight Fraud, Shred Instead event, we shredded more than 20,000 pounds of documents and collected 800 pounds of food for the local food bank.

Aspen ClubMonday–Friday8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Closed on all major holidays.

Fort Collins1025 Garfield St., Suite A Just west ofPoudre Valley Hospital(Note: mailing address is1024 S. Lemay Ave.Fort Collins, CO 80524) Phone: 970.495.8560

Loveland (limited hours)Medical Center of the Rockies (MCR)2500 Rocky Mountain Ave.Loveland, CO 80538Phone: 970.624.1860

Greeley (limited hours)1900 16th St., First FloorGreeley, CO 80631Phone: 970.313.2796

Recorded registration line:Call 970.495.8565 to sign up for classes in all communities.

uchealth.org/aspenclub

HEALTHY AGING

Oliver Wendell Holmes once said, “Men do not quit playing because they grow old; they grow old because they quit playing.” Lifelong learners continue to challenge themselves by playing the game of knowledge. In our ever-changing world, the supply of new and fascinating information is limitless.

2 ASPEN CLUB NEWS

Patient and Family Advisory Council community event.5:30–7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17Poudre Valley Hospital, Café F

The purpose of the Patient and Family Advisory Council is to promote and support patient and family-centered values at UCHealth hospitals (Poudre Valley Hospital and Medical Center of the Rockies) by personalizing, humanizing and demystifying the health care experience. Learn more about how you can let your voice be heard. 

Senior leadership, along with committee members and UCHealth staff, will be in attendance to hear from you. We value your experience and insight into the perception of care you receive at UCHealth.

Additional information:

• Dinner will be provided, and we encourage you to bring a guest to share in this experience.

• Attending this event helps develop a partnership with the patients and families we serve.

• RSVP by contacting Rynell at 970.495.8313 or UCHNorthPFAC@uchealth.org

Mind your mental health this winter.During the winter season, many people start feeling a little off as darker and colder days drag on. Circadian rhythms, the body’s natural clock, help regulate functions such as sleep/wake cycles and mood and can sometimes be thrown off by the winter season. This shift, along with other factors (including genetics and body chemistry) might affect your mental health. What can you do to maintain your overall wellness this winter? Exercising, eating nutritious foods, practicing mindfulness and maintaining social support systems are core to maintaining a healthy lifestyle:

• Physical activity is a fantastic outlet for stress. Exercising 30 minutes a day may help your body release endorphins, which are your natural happy hormones.

• It’s challenging to always eat healthy, but do your best to fill up first on healthy fruits and vegetables to maintain a balanced diet—then have the occasional indulgence.

• Meditation has been shown to improve symptoms in people suffering from depression and anxiety. Meditation can be as short as a 10-minute session every other day when you check in with your body or it can be as simple as taking a quiet stroll in a park.

• Keeping in touch with your family, your friends and other caring people in your life strengthens your sense of community and provides you with a strong support system to call on when you feel down.

When should you seek help? Depression can come on during any season, so it’s important to call your doctor when you have these concerning signs of depression:

• Depressed mood most of the day.• Decreased interest or pleasure in activities that you used to enjoy.• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual.• Feeling tired and less energetic.• Feeling worthless or excessively guilty.• More difficulty concentrating than usual.• Thoughts of death, suicide or harming others.

If you notice these symptoms or have thoughts of harming yourself or others, seek medical attention right away. It is also important to reach out to the supportive people in your life.

3ASPEN CLUB NEWS

Memories and writing— a healthy combination. We’ve all heard someone say something like, “My uncle Joe was a great storyteller. I wish he would have written some of his stories down.” Or how many of us have thought, “I wish I had asked my mother about this or my grandfather about that?”

If you like to hear stories about your ancestors, recording your own memories might just be the best gift you could give anyone. You can share your wisdom, life lessons and values and the things that shaped your life with the generations that follow in your footsteps. Telling and receiving stories is truly a joy.

In these highly mobile times, distance often separates the generations. Many folks who are unable to hand down their cherished memories by word of mouth are choosing, instead, to write down their personal and family story. Writing down your life stories records and preserves people, moments and places in time that are too precious to lose. These life stories also help us better understand ourselves. Writing sometimes involves memories of pain and grief, but when written down, we discover something miraculous—healing happens and brings a newfound emotional understanding to life.

So how do you get started? The Aspen Club will be offering a four-week class titled Writing to Capture Your Memories, starting Jan. 8. You’ll be encouraged to start a topic list. Maybe it’s a few lines of a remembered conversation or a joke your grandpa liked to share. These topics lead you toward writing longer vignettes and fuller-bodied stories. Sharon Greenlee, author and therapist, will give you the tools you need. See page 7 for details.

INSIGHTFUL

“Why not” wellness tip.If you’re struggling to stay active in the cold weather, here are a few suggestions for staying healthy and stimulated during the winter season:

• Join an Aspen Club fitness class.

• Stretch daily.• Go for walks at the mall

with a friend.• Get involved in

sports leagues in your community.

• Fit in walk breaks whenever you can.

• Get some hand weights or stretch bands to use at home for resistance exercise.

Of course, you can always be brave, bundle up and enjoy a brisk walk in the wintry weather. Just make sure your path is clear of snow and ice before you attempt that stroll down the street or have a snowball fight with your grandchildren.

Too many people, when they get older, think they have to live by the calendar. We shouldn’t let age define us. The calendar is a useful way to let you know the date, but if you let yourself be hemmed in by your chronological age, you may lock yourself out of potentially valuable opportunities.

—John Glenn

4 ASPEN CLUB NEWS

Your heart on optimism.There is a strong link between optimism, hope and overall satisfaction with life and a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. In fact, people with the highest levels of optimism have twice the likelihood of having ideal heart health compared to their more pessimistic peers. Research has shown that individuals who are the most optimistic have lower blood glucose and total cholesterol levels when compared to less optimistic people.

Optimists are more likely to eat healthier, exercise more, sleep better, have lower blood pressure and lipid levels and manage their stress levels better. Things that might improve levels of optimism for some people include:

• Taking the time to be thankful on a daily basis.

• Taking stock of the unique talents and positive attributes you have.

• Reminding yourself that things usually turn out OK.

• Surrounding yourself with uplifting and positive people.

• Reflecting on what went well today and what you learned.

• Taking your dog on a walk and enjoying the outdoors.

How can I check my bone density?Have you wondered if you are at risk for osteoporosis? Well, there are several technologies that help assess bone density. The most common and accurate (considered the gold standard) is the DEXA (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan. This quick, simple and painless scan can measure bone density at any spot in the body, but it is usually used to measure the lower back, total hip and the top of the thighbone. DEXA accomplishes this with only one-tenth of the radiation exposure of a chest X-ray. This scan must be ordered by your physician.

Another method for osteoporosis screening is the ultrasound bone density machine, which uses sound waves to measure bone density at the heel of your foot. This is the screening used by the Aspen Club.

Through these screenings, you receive a T-score, which tells you how close you are to average peak bone density and provides beneficial information you can share with your doctor. In the past two years, the Aspen Club has screened more than 600 people.

2015 results (317 participants):

• 46% normal• 51% mild loss• 3% low

2016 results (330 participants):

• Only 38% were normal• 49% mild loss• 6% low

Osteoporosis and low bone mass are currently estimated to be a public health threat for almost 44 million U.S. women and men, age 50 and older. This represents 55 percent of people age 50 and older in the United States.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends five steps to improve bone health:

1. Get calcium and vitamin D every day (check with your doctor).

2. Do regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.

3. Don’t smoke and don’t drink too much alcohol.

4. Talk to your health care provider about your chances of getting osteoporosis, and ask when you should have a bone-density test.

5. Take an osteoporosis medication, if it’s right for you.

Please see page 7 to find out when the next bone-density screening is scheduled.

5ASPEN CLUB NEWS

Stress-busters for caregivers.2:30–4 p.m.WednesdaysFeb. 14–April 11St. John’s Lutheran305 E. Elizabeth St.Fort Collins

The Aspen Club and the Larimer County Office on Aging (LCOOA) have joined forces once again to offer a beneficial program for those who care for loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer’s. This program focuses on caregiver education, support, problem-solving and stress management.

Each week a stress-management technique is practiced. Jill Taylor from the Aspen Club and Lynette McGowan from the LCOOA are program facilitators. Since this is a pilot program, participants are encouraged to attend at least seven of the nine classes.

There is no charge, but registration is required by calling the Aspen Club at 970.495.8560.

Are you taking a new medication? Have you recently stopped taking any medications? How many pills do you take each day and for which conditions? What do you take this supplement for? What time of day do you take this medication? These are just some of the questions Gina Harper, clinical coordinator of pharmacy services at PVH, might ask when you come in for a medication and supplement review with the Aspen Club.

The Aspen Club offers this valuable service because older adults routinely take many different kinds of medications. Sometimes, you may have medications ordered by different doctors, particularly if you visit a number of specialists. This can lead to a great deal of confusion when taking medications. During the review, our pharmacists will screen your medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements and vitamins for potential duplication of therapy or side effects. The findings may even save you money in the long run.

Some of the most common and potentially dangerous medication mistakes to avoid are:

1. Taking too much. Overdoses are the number-one cause of medication fatalities and the most common medication error.

2. Confusing medications with one another. Prescription medications frequently have names that are easy to mix up.

3. Medicines interacting with one another. Some medications were never meant to be mixed. With 40 percent of seniors taking five or more prescriptions, this is something you need to be careful about.

4. Food and drug interactions. While it’s common knowledge not to take certain medications at the same time, the way foods interact with drugs is less commonly discussed.

Your visit with our pharmacist will educate you, while helping you weigh the pros and cons of each medication and supplement. You’ll be given questions to ask your doctor next time you see them.

Aspen Club medication reviews are now offered in Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley. See page 10 for dates and times.

Medication and supplement reviews—opportunities expand.

FUNNY PAGES

Lester: Any news about the guy who fell into the upholstery machine?

Bessie: Yes. He’s now fully recovered.

6 ASPEN CLUB NEWS

FORT COLLINSBone-density screening. An ultrasound bone sonometer is used to measure the bone density in your heel. You should share your results with your physician. • 3–4:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 8

Aspen Club Office, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A• 2–4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb.13

2315 E. Harmony Road, Suite 170• Cost: $12.• Appointments required.

Writing to capture memories for you and your loved ones. Our past is rich with memories and experiences that shape our lives. Learn to capture those memories through writing techniques that help you organize your thoughts. It’s amazing how one memory will lead to the next. During this fun and interactive four-week workshop, Sharon Greenlee, counselor, consultant and writer, will help you write beautiful, meaningful and long-lasting memories to pass your legacy on or as a personal journal. Class size is limited.• Level I: 3–4:30 p.m. Mondays, Jan. 8–29

PVH Officescapes classroom• Level II: 3–4:30 p.m. Mondays, Feb. 12–Mar. 5

PVH Officescapes classroom (Level I or some writing experience required.)

• Cost: $32 per four-week class.

Balance screenings. These 20-minute consultations will assess your risk of falls using the Fullerton balance test. Exercise suggestions, balance and fall-prevention strategies will be shared based on your results. This is done in conjunction with the fitness professionals from Poudre Valley Medical Fitness. • 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Tuesdays, Jan. 9 and Feb. 13• 2315 E. Harmony Road, Suite 170• Cost: $15• Appointments are required; call 970.674.6500.

Ice melt pickup day. Small bags of ice melt are available for pickup in the Fort Collins office only one time per month for members. This service is to keep icy patches around your home safer throughout the winter. These will be the last two pickup dates for the season. • 9 a.m.–noon Saturdays, Jan. 20 and Feb. 17• Fort Collins Aspen Club office, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A

Foot reflexology appointments.Mary Axelrod, LMT, CR, is a board-certified and licensed massage therapist and certified reflexologist. She will be providing 20-minute foot reflexology sessions that promote relaxation, stress reduction and pain relief, and they feel so good. Call to make an appointment today.• 9 a.m.–noon

Saturdays, Jan. 20 and Feb. 17• 1025 Garfield St., Suite A• Cost: $20 for 20 minutes, pre-paid upon making your

appointment.

Aging, digestive health and your gut. Joshua S. Tierney, MD, is a general surgeon with UCHealth. He will discuss common digestive health issues that impact older adults. This could be from a changing digestive system, the impact of medications and inactivity, the importance of fluids, diverticular disease, polyps or GERD.• Noon–1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, PVH Café F• Feel free to purchase a meal from the cafeteria and

bring it to the program.

Living well with chronic disease. Learning how to manage a chronic condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis or high blood pressure is a daily challenge that requires energy and effort. In this 2.5-hour/week, six-week program, you’ll learn different tools to help you take control of your health. A workbook is included.• 5–7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 24–Feb. 28• Miramont Central, 2211 S. College Ave.  

CarFit assessments. CarFit teaches you how to make your car fit you to increase safety and mobility and to help you drive safer for longer. A CarFit technician goes over a 12-point checklist, including steering wheel spacing, properly adjusted headrests, seatbelt usage and more. Each check-up takes about 20 minutes, and appointments are required. It’s time well spent to keep you safe on the road.• Noon–3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5• Aspen Club parking lot, 1025 Garfield St., Suite A

Hearing screenings. Certified audiologists from All About Hearing and Hearing Rehab Center are available for baseline hearing screenings and to answer your questions about hearing health. Appointments are required. No charge.• 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8• Location given when you make your appointment.

Registrationrequired

Aspen Club Monthly FeaturesLocations are denoted: Fort Collins (FC), Loveland (LV), Windsor (WI), Estes Park (EP), Greeley (GR), Fort Collins Senior Center (FCSC), Poudre Valley Hospital (PVH), Medical Center of the Rockies (MCR) and Greeley Medical Clinic (GMC).To download the Aspen Club calendar or register for classes, please go to uchealth.org/aspenclub.

7ASPEN CLUB NEWS

Arthritis education and support.Dr. Daniel Muller, UCHealth rheumatologist, will discuss arthritis and rheumatology. Learn about how these conditions are diagnosed, available treatment options (both conventional and alternative) and how you can incorporate preventive measures in your daily life, including exercise, self-care and alternative medicine. • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12• Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Drive

Stress-busters for family caregivers. Please see page 6 for more information about this evidenced-based program that practices different stress-busting techniques each week for those who deal with the day-to-day stress of caring for loved ones. This is offered by the Larimer County Office on Aging and the UCHealth Aspen Club. A wonderful manual and CD are given to all participants who attend seven out of nine classes.• 2:30–4 p.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 14–April 11• St. John’s Lutheran Church, 305 E. Elizabeth St.

The following opportunities are at theFort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Drive. Registration is available at fcgov.com/recreator or by calling 970.221.6644. Please refer to the activity number listed.

Healing through meditation and spiritual wisdom. Age gracefully by bringing strength to midlife joys and challenges through simple yoga breathing, visualization, positive affirmation and meditation. These techniques help with stress, fatigue, lack of sleep and high blood pressure. These four-week sessions are led by Swamijii Dharmananda.• 10–11:30 a.m. Fridays, Jan. 5–26, Activity #125420-01• 10–11:30 a.m., Fridays, Feb. 2–23, Activity #125420-02• Cost: $40 per session

Am I Hungry?® Mindful eating workshop. In this eight-week program, you'll learn how to be in charge of your eating instead of feeling out of control.  You will practice eating the foods you love without overeating or guilt and improve mindless and emotional eating. Also you will learn how to eat healthier without depriving yourself.• 3–4:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, Jan. 17–March 7 Activity #125418-01

• Cost: $65 (includes all classes, book and journal)

Living well with diabetes. Do you know what you should do to control your diabetes, but have a hard time fitting it into your life? In this 2.5-hour, six-week class, you’ll earn practical ways to self-manage your diabetes through physical activity, nutrition and better communication skills. A workbook is included.• 1–3:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 31–Mar. 7• Activity #125411-01

Special event: A taste of wellness. Food and information that’s easy to digest! Enjoy this event sponsored by the Friends of the Senior Center. Participants will sample healthy food options available from some of the finest local eateries and find out how field-to-table food choices enhance wellness. Donations from this event will raise funds toward making enhancements to the Fitness Center. Chances will be available for door prizes too. • 1:30–3:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18• Admission for a donation.• Contact Barbara Schoenberger at

barbararoseks@gmail.com for information and tickets. 

Note: Please look under multiple locations for other Fort Collins offerings.

GREELEYUsing the immune system to fight cancer. Dr. Ross McFarland, from UCHealth Cancer and Hematology Clinic–Harmony Campus, will discuss how the immune system fights cancer by providing an overview of current immunotherapies. Dr. McFarland will explain how cancer is treated today and familiarize attendees with treatments available locally. • 10–11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17• GMC, 1900 16th St., lower-level classroom

Powerful tools for caregivers. If you are the primary caregiver for a loved one, taking care of you must become a priority. Topics in this six-week class include helpful community resources, reducing stress and guilt, making tough decisions and communication. This program is offered through a partnership with the Weld County Area Agency on Aging. • 9–11:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 23–Feb. 27• GMC, 1900 16th St., lower-level classroom • Call Julian Broce at 970.400.6130 or 970.313.2796

to register.

Registrationrequired

Aspen Club Monthly FeaturesLocations are denoted: Fort Collins (FC), Loveland (LV), Windsor (WI), Estes Park (EP), Greeley (GR), Fort Collins Senior Center (FCSC), Poudre Valley Hospital (PVH), Medical Center of the Rockies (MCR) and Greeley Medical Clinic (GMC).To download the Aspen Club calendar or register for classes, please go to uchealth.org/aspenclub.

8 ASPEN CLUB NEWS

Common growths that occur with age and when to worry. Dr. Hoover from Front Range Dermatology Associates will present information about the changes that occur in your skin with age and answer questions about why we get wrinkles and bruise easier with age. He will discuss how growths or “age spots” can occur and which ones to worry about. Plus, he will give you tips to protect and renew your skin and what products are truly dermatologist-recommended.• 10–11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 9• GMC, 1900 16th St., lower-level classroom

Signs of hearing loss. Dr. Jacki Reider, audiologist with Hearing Rehab Center, will educate us about hearing loss and what the next steps are once you feel you may have hearing loss. She will discuss device styles and technology choices and the importance of feeling comfortable with and trusting your audiologist.• 10–11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 15• GMC, 1900 16th St., lower-level classroom

Note: Please look under multiple locations for other Greeley offerings.

LOVELANDPelvic floor: Restoring continence and confidence. Many women and men experience urinary or fecal incontinence. This is not a normal part of aging, and physical therapy can help. Sharon Petty, PT, DPT, OCS, will present conservative management ideas for incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, as well as bowel management. • 2–3:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18• Chilson Senior Center, 700 E. 4th St.

Heart rhythms, pulse. The fascinating world of cardiac electrophysiology. Did you know the heart is an extraordinary organ capable of generating and transmitting electricity through its own specialized circuitry? Please join us for an introduction into the world of cardiac electrophysiology, the study of electrical disorders of the heart. We will discuss basic anatomy and physiology of the heart’s own electrical system and review common heart rhythm disorders. Eric M. Riles, MD, will provide an overview into the world of cardiac electrophysiology.  • 2–3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15• Chilson Senior Center, 700 E. 4th St.

Things people ask their cardiologist and the answers. Lance Richards, MD, UCHealth cardiologist, will talk about what’s important for your heart and health from the patient’s perspective and some of the common themes that come up. Dr. Richards will share heartwarming, entertaining and informative anecdotes he has experienced during his four-year career in cardiology. • 12:30–1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6• MCR Longs Peak classroom

Meditation for brain health. Stress reduction is one of the best things you can do for your memory. This class combines brain health games and strategies with various meditation and breathing techniques to reduce stress and improve memory. This class is co-sponsored by the UCHealth Aspen Club. • 1:30–3 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16• Windsor Community Recreation Center, 250 N. 11th St.

Note: Please look under multiple locations for other Loveland offerings.

IN MULTIPLE LOCATIONS AARP safe drivers class. This class covers defensive driving skills, age-related changes and driving safely in today’s world. Participants may be eligible for discounts on their auto insurance premiums. Registration is required; call any Aspen Club office.• Fort Collins: Noon–4:30 p.m.

Thursdays, Jan. 18 or Feb. 15, Fort Collins Senior Center• Loveland: Noon–4:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 8, MCR• Greeley: 9 a.m–1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3

GMC lower-level conference room.• Cost: $15 for AARP members, $20 for non-members

(checks only, payable day of class)

Medication and supplement reviews. PVH, MCR and GMC PharmDs will review your medications, vitamins, supplements and over-the-counter drugs for safety purposes, to look for the potential of adverse reactions, make sure you are getting a good value for your dollar and answer your related medication questions. Appointments are required.• Loveland: 8:30–12:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22

MCR, Mount Meeker Room• Greeley: 9 a.m.–noon Wednesday, Jan. 24

GMC lower-level conference room• Fort Collins: 8 a.m.–noon Friday, Feb. 9

Aspen Club office, 1025 Garfield, Suite A

Registrationrequired

Aspen Club Monthly FeaturesLocations are denoted: Fort Collins (FC), Loveland (LV), Windsor (WI), Estes Park (EP), Greeley (GR), Fort Collins Senior Center (FCSC), Poudre Valley Hospital (PVH), Medical Center of the Rockies (MCR) and Greeley Medical Clinic (GMC).To download the Aspen Club calendar or register for classes, please go to uchealth.org/aspenclub.

9ASPEN CLUB NEWS

Aspen Club Ongoing ServicesTo find out more about these services, call any Aspen Club office or go online to uchealth.org/aspenclub.

Medicare 101. Are you turning 65 or new to Medicare? Confused? Have questions? Join your peers for this informative class, which offers an overview of Medicare benefits, supplemental insurance, Medicare Advantage Plans, prescription drug plans, preventive services, how Medicare works with employer health insurance and more. Presented by Aspen Club Medicare Counselors.• Fort Collins: 4–5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9, PVH Café F• Greeley: 4:30–6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18, GMC lower level

Get your advance directives done. It’s important at any age to get advance directives done, but especially as we get older. This class will explain living wills and medical health care directives and give you a chance to complete them. We will also discuss end-of-life issues and the importance of letting your loved ones know your plans.• Fort Collins: 9–10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 10

Fort Collins Senior Center. To register, call 970.221.6644. Refer to activity #125401-01

• Fort Collins: 1:30–3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 22 Prospect Medical Plaza, 1106 E. Prospect Road

• Loveland: 1:30–3 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23 MCR Medical Clinic, Suite 2200, North Office Building

New member orientation. Aspen Club members are invited to learn about the benefits and services available to them, such as blood tests, health screenings and educational programs. • Fort Collins: 1–2:15 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11

Westbridge classroom, 1107 S. Lemay Ave.• Loveland: 1:30–2:45 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20

MCR lower-level classroom• Greeley: 1–2:30 p.m. Thursday, March 1

GMC lower-level classroom

Blood pressure (BP) checks.• In your home: If you have difficulty getting out to

monitor your BP, please call the Aspen Club to arrange for a community paramedic to come to your home for a free check.

• Fort Collins: 9–11 a.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 23 and Feb. 20 at 1025 Garfield St., Suite A 11 a.m.–noon Thursdays, Jan. 18 and Feb. 15 at DMA Plaza, 300 Remington St.

• Loveland: 10 a.m.–noon Mondays, Jan. 22 and Feb. 26 Chilson Senior Center Center, 700 E. 4th St.

• Greeley: 10–11 a.m. Fridays, Jan. 26 and Feb. 23 at Rodarte Center, 920 A St. 10–11 a.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 17 and Feb. 21 at Birchwood Apartments, 2830 27 St. Lane

Preparing for total hip and knee replacement.Learn what to expect from joint-replacement surgery, including pre-surgery exercises, necessary equipment, diet, pain management and safety. No registration needed; just drop in.• Fort Collins: 2–4 p.m.

Every Monday Westbridge Classroom, 1107 S. Lemay Ave. For more information, contact 970.495.8260.

• Loveland: 1–2 p.m. every Monday MCR fourth-floor conference room For more information, contact 970.624.4326.

• Advance directives/notary assistance • Aspen Club low-cost blood tests • Blood pressure checks• Bone-density screening ($12)• Caregiver classes and resources• Exercise and nutritional consultations ($30)• Hearing screenings

• Information and referral about senior services• Medicare counseling and assistance• Quarterly arthritis support and education• Toenail services in Fort Collins and Greeley ($35)• Total hip and knee replacement classes• Therapeutic mini massages ($1 per minute)

Registrationrequired

Aspen Club Monthly FeaturesLocations are denoted: Fort Collins (FC), Loveland (LV), Windsor (WI), Estes Park (EP), Greeley (GR), Fort Collins Senior Center (FCSC), Poudre Valley Hospital (PVH), Medical Center of the Rockies (MCR) and Greeley Medical Clinic (GMC).To download the Aspen Club calendar or register for classes, please go to uchealth.org/aspenclub.

10 ASPEN CLUB NEWS

Aspen Club Fitness Opportunities Eight-week classes • No class on Monday, Jan. 1, to recognize New Year’s Day • Register by calling 970.495.8560

Strong women, healthy bones.Weight training to improve bone density and body composition and create an overall sense of well-being.• Noon–1 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, Jan. 3–Feb. 23

Studio West, 216 W. Horsetooth Road, Suite B. Cost: $52• 1:15–2:15 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, Jan. 3–Feb. 23

Studio West, 216 W. Horsetooth Road, Suite B. Cost: $52• 9–10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 2–Feb. 22

Studio West, 216 Horsetooth Road, Suite B. Cost: $52• 2:45–3:45 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 2–Feb. 22

Westbridge Classroom, 1107 S. Lemay Ave. Cost: $52

PWR! moves. Level II.The Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery (PWR) class helps people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) move better and longer through exercise. • 1–2 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 4–Feb. 22

Studio West, 216 W. Horsetooth Road. Cost: $36• For a level I PWR! Moves class, please call the

Fort Collins Senior Center.

Yoga.Chair yoga.Safe and gentle exercises will tone and strengthen muscles, loosen joints, lower stress and help you relax.• 10–11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 3–Feb. 21

Westbridge, 1107 S. Lemay Ave. Cost: $48.75

Gentle yoga.This class is perfect for those wanting a slower-paced, gentle yoga class. Please bring a yoga mat. Participants must be able to get up and down from the floor.• 1–2:15 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 2–Feb. 20

Masonic Lodge, 225 W. Oak St. Cost: $46

Focused yoga.This class is best suited for those with some prior yoga experience or who are fairly fit.• Fort Collins: 1–2:15 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 4–Feb. 22

Masonic Lodge, 225 W. Oak St. Cost: $46.• Loveland: 1:30–2:45 p.m. Mondays, Jan. 8–Feb. 19

First Christian Church, 2000 N. Lincoln Ave. Cost: $40.25

Core strength.Learn ways to strengthen your core muscles using a fit ball. Must have a fit ball and be able to get up off the floor.• 10–11 a.m. Mondays, Jan. 8–Feb. 19

Lifepoint Church Gym, 901 E. Lake St. Cost: $31.50

Tai chi for healthy living.Tai chi uses gentle and fluid movements to increase strength and flexibility, decrease pain in joints, decrease stress, reduce blood pressure, improve balance and improve your sense of well-being.• Advanced: 9–10 a.m. Fridays, Jan. 5–Feb. 23

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 2000 S. Lemay Ave. Cost: $36

• Intermediate: 10:15–11:15 a.m. Fridays, Jan. 5–Feb. 23 Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 2000 S. Lemay Ave. Cost: $36

• Beginning: 10:30–11:25 a.m. Thursdays, Jan. 4–Feb. 22 Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 2000 S. Lemay Ave. Cost: $36

Tai chi for balance.Tai chi helps prevent falls by improving balance and mobility, increasing leg strength and flexibility and reducing your overall fear of falling. Research shows that regular tai chi practice has a positive impact on reducing falls time and time again. This class is encouraged for individuals with Parkinson’s; however, it is open to anyone who feels they need more balance.• 1–2 p.m. Mondays, Jan. 8–Feb. 19

Studio West, 216 W. Horsetooth Road Cost: $31.50. No class Jan. 2.

Strength, agility and stability.Easy but effective exercises improve balance by correcting posture and increasing strength and agility so you can move with confidence. Participants should be able to participate in some standing exercises. • 10–11 a.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 3–Feb. 21

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 2000 S. Lemay Ave. Cost: $36

Men—loosen up! (New class for men.) It’s never too late to start a stretching routine. This all-men stretching series will integrate moves to improve flexibility and range of motion. This class will help you with more energy, decrease potential risk for injury and might even help your golf game.  • 8:30–9:30 a.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 7–28

Westbridge Classroom,1107 S. Lemay Ave. Cost: $13

11ASPEN CLUB NEWS

Aspen ClubPoudre Valley Hospital1024 S. Lemay Ave.Fort Collins, CO 80524-3998

Return service requested.

Non Profit Org

U.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 168

Fort Collins, CO

IN THIS ISSUE...

May every day of the new year glow with good cheer and happiness for you and your loved ones.

Happy new year from all of us at UCHealth and your friends at the Aspen Club.

Two cardiac physician presentations

page 1

Happy New Year

page 1

Writing your memories for loved ones

page 4

For men— a new flexibility class

page 11

Aspen Clubmembership

11,994