Colorado has been ranked one of the top states in the country for seniors to retire – and it’s no secret why. The state has a favorable climate, seemingly endless recreational opportunities and is home to major metropolitan areas perfect for seniors and younger adults alike.
Boulder is one such area. Known for its iconic Flatirons, University of Colorado Boulder and its craft breweries, it may seem like a city for young adults. However, with the number of senior services in Boulder, it’s a great place for older adults to retire.
Health and Wellness Programs
Colorado has the lowest rate of diabetes and obesity in the nation, and is consistently named one of the top 10 healthiest states. To help older adults take advantage of living in such an active and healthy state, many senior services in Boulder are geared toward health and wellness.
Through the Boulder County Area Agency on Aging, seniors can take advantage of the programs, workshops and courses designed to help them adopt healthier lifestyles, reduce their risks of falls, and manage pain and chronic diseases.
The City of Boulder publishes a series of online exercise videos, called Forever Fit, designed specifically for older adults. These videos focus on low-impact cardio, strength, stretching, yoga and tai chi, and allow seniors to exercise in the comfort of their own homes.
Through the Silver Sneakers and Silver & Fit programs, Boulder seniors can receive discounted membership rates to all three of Boulder’s community and recreation centers. Locations include the East Boulder Community Center (5660 Sioux Drive), North Boulder Recreation Center (3170 Broadway) and South Boulder Recreation Center (1360 Gillaspie). The program also gives them access to more than 100 drop-in fitness classes and senior sports leagues.
Food and Nutrition Assistance
Food and nutrition are vital components of overall health and wellness, and senior services in Boulder include nutrition counseling and education through the Boulder County Area Agency on Aging. At no cost to them, seniors can work one-on-one with a registered dietician to develop appropriate meals plans and have access to cooking classes where they can learn to cook healthier meals at home.
Seniors can also take advantage of Boulder’s Meals on Wheels program. By visiting Café Classico inside the West Boulder Senior Center, located at 909 Arapahoe Ave., they can receive a healthy lunch every weekday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for just $6 and enjoy dinner and entertainment Tuesday evenings at 5:30 for $7. Seniors can also sign up for home delivery through Meals on Wheels and receive one healthy meal to their doorstep on week days.
Healthcare Services
The Boulder County Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is a free, confidential service for nursing home or assisted living residents. Through the program, residents of these facilities receive help advocating for their rights and access to quality care. Boulder County’s Adult Protection & Senior Services staff are available to help investigate reports of abuse or neglect and will offer services to help older adults in risky situations.
Boulder County hosts free monthly Medicare Basic Classes to help seniors understand the enrollment process, plans, benefits and costs of Medicare. Seniors can also apply for Medicaid long-term care benefits through Boulder County Housing & Human Services, provided they meet certain income eligibility requirements.
The Alzheimer Association’s Colorado Chapter offers support to seniors in Boulder living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, as well as to their families and caregivers.
Caregiver Support
Seniors services in Boulder include support for caregivers as well. Boulder County offers a variety of caregiver programs, including caregiver training and respite services. Every year, Boulder County hosts its Annual Caregiving Symposium where caregivers can receive educational information and information on local resources. Boulder caregivers can also sign up to receive the monthly newsletter Care Connections, which contains caregiving articles as well as information regarding local resources, classes and events.
Additional Services and Resources
Through Boulder County CareConnect, seniors can receive assistance with home repairs and maintenance, transportation to and from medical appointments, even grocery delivery and sidewalk shoveling. The Colorado PEAK website lets Boulder residents check their eligibility for medical, financial and food assistance. The Boulder County Veterans Services Office gives veterans and their dependents information and assistance with Medicaid, Medicare, nutrition programs, family caregiver programs, respite and home care, legal advice, mental health support, transportation and more.
To receive additional information about senior services in Boulder visit one of the city’s two senior centers, the West Senior Center at 909 Arapahoe Ave. or the East Senior Center at 5660 Sioux Drive.