Stroke-the good, the bad and the ugly - AWS
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May/June 2022 | Volume 35 | Issue 3
Stroke—the good, the bad and the ugly. What are the signs
of stroke?
Why should I care about stroke? Will they think I’m overreacting if
With stroke being the leading cause my symptoms are mild? Balance: Sudden
of disability and 5th leading cause • No. We care about your brain difficulty standing
of death in the United States, we and your health too much to or walking.
want everyone to know what to do
if you see signs of stroke. In recent
dismiss any signs of stroke. E yes: Sudden loss of
• Even mild symptoms can vision or double vision.
years, the options for treating stroke
have expanded greatly, and we can be disabling, so we will do F ace: Uneven or
help many of the stroke patients that everything we can to figure out drooping smile.
what’s going on.
come to our hospitals. Treatment Arm: One arm is weak.
options depend entirely on time
from symptom onset so please, seek Should I be worried if I only had a S peech: Slurred or
emergent care as soon as you think ministroke? jumbled speech.
you or a loved one is having a stroke. • Ministrokes are your brain’s T ime to call: Call 911
warning signs that you are at if you suspect any
What should I do if I think I high risk for having a stroke. symptoms.
(or someone else) might be
• We treat ministrokes just as Also note sudden onset of
having a stroke?
urgently as strokes because we terrible headache.
• Call 911 and get to an want to fix the things causing the
emergency room. symptoms before damage occurs. What are some of the risk
– Calling 911 will give the hospital
factors for stroke?
a head’s up that you’re coming, Join UCHealth neurology specialists
and they’ll be ready for you. May 9 to learn more about • High blood pressure (aka
– Local ambulance crews will take stroke prevention and amazing hypertension)
you to your hospital of choice. advancements in diagnosing and • High cholesterol (aka
– All hospitals in this area can take treating strokes. See Spotlight on hypercholesterolemia)
care of suspected stroke patients Strokes on page 8 for details. • Smoking
• Do not go to urgent care or your
primary care provider. • Diabetes
• Age
• Overweight/obesity
• Sleep apnea
• Atrial fibrillation
• Coronary artery disease
(aka CAD)
Aspen Club
Aspen Club offices in all
locations have limited open
hours. It’s always advised to call
ahead before coming in.
Closed on all major holidays.
Fort Collins
Community Health
Improvement Building
1025 Garfield St., Ste. A
West of Poudre Valley Hospital
Phone: 970.495.8560
Greeley
New location to be announced
Phone: 970.495.8560
Mental health matters.
Longmont May is Mental Health Awareness • Outpatient: A separate space
Longs Peak Hospital (LPH) Month, the time to focus on for patient visits with more
1750 E. Ken Pratt Blvd. those things that bring us overall small-group meeting areas will
Longmont, CO 80504 health and wellbeing. Perhaps, be located on the first floor of
Phone: 720.718.1690 as we venture out more, we the Westbridge medical office
can reconnect with family and building across Lemay Avenue
Loveland friends. Deepening relationships from the main hospital.
UCHealth Medical Center deepens our sense of wellbeing • Additional services: A unit
of the Rockies (MCR) and purpose. offering electroconvulsive
2500 Rocky Mountain Ave. therapy, transcranial magnetic
Loveland, CO 80538 As you may know, the UCHealth stimulation and more will be
Phone: 970.495.8560 Poudre Valley Hospital added to a lower floor at PVH.
(PVH) campus is undergoing
Medicare helpline: renovation. Beginning this While specific geropsychiatric
970.495.8558 spring, our expansion will services are not part of this
include inpatient and outpatient expansion, the facilities are
Recorded registration line: behavioral health services at the poised to provide exceptional
Call 970.495.8565 to sign up campus. Anticipated in spring care for older adults.
for classes in all communities. 2024, services at UCHealth
Mountain Crest Behavioral The notion of warmer summer
aspenclub@uchealth.org Health Center in Fort Collins will months reminds us to bask in the
uchealth.org/aspenclub be moved to PVH, and the new days of longer sunshine and to
facilities will create an improved nurture our minds and bodies
environment and experience for with self-care. Commit to doing
these patients. A few highlights: something for yourself each day.
FUNNY PAGES • Inpatient: Capacity for 50 And as you venture out, I hope
patient beds (about 22% more you’ll be inspired to join us for an
than the 41 beds at Mountain upcoming class or two.
Crest, with more private rooms)
My mother always used will be available in a renovated Yours in health and harmony,
to say, “The older you get, area on the third floor, north
the better you get. Unless side of PVH. It will include high-
you’re a banana.” acuity adult, general adult and
adolescent units.
—Betty White JoAnn Herkenhoff
• More patient-use areas: At the UCHealth Senior Services
center of the space will be an Aspen Club Supervisor
outdoor, rooftop courtyard.
2 ASPEN CLUB NEWS
Aspen Club leadership:
Harnessing wellbeing. Serving in the interim leadership
As the hours of sunshine extend their reach at the start and end role for Aspen Club gave me the
of our days and the moist ground gives way to the early blooms chance to meet some of you. And
of spring, we, too, start to venture outside of our winter and now I will have the opportunity to
pandemic cocoon. Admittedly, the seasons of the past two years expand my service to you all, as I
have somewhat blended together. We likely found ourselves more take on the permanent position.
isolated, less active and somewhat melancholy. I am honored and excited to
work closely with the Aspen
Signs of depression or anxiety should be checked by your doctor, if Club team—Alan, Alyssa, Julie
they persist. Symptoms that you can link to situational factors—like and Kat—to help you live healthy,
the pandemic—may be improved through intentional efforts to independent and rewarding
positively impact your wellbeing: years. Thank you for trusting
us to share resources, provide
• Get outside: Stepping out of the confines of our homes lends programming to enhance your
itself to a sense of freedom, allows us to drink in fresh air and life and connect you to our
ignites our senses through unique sounds and smells. extraordinary health system. I am
• Move your body: Whether it’s structured exercise or simply energized by all that is to come!
playful movement, plan activities that help lubricate your joints
and wake up your muscles. —JoAnn Herkenhoff
• Strengthen resilience: Focus on the positive influences in your life
to help offset the times when life deals you a disappointment.
• Build relationships: Combat isolation and loneliness by reaching
out to those you care about. Empathy and understanding are
often reciprocated expressions.
• Seek resources: Manage chronic conditions through exploring
resource options with your providers, family and neighbors, as
well as the Aspen Club.
• Reinforce purpose: Establish small goals to accomplish things you
want to do and build on your success by tackling progressively
larger goals.
• Count your blessings: Reflect on the things in your life that you
are most grateful for. Write them down. Verbally express them to
others.
• Establish routine: Set some time parameters around your day to
guide a balance of productivity, play, social interactions and rest.
Pick and choose which ideas work for you based on what matters
most in your life. The key to harnessing wellbeing is in setting the
intention to deliberately work on various aspects of it and then
committing your energy and creativity to make it happen.
ASPEN CLUB NEWS 3
Healthy mouth, healthy body.
A healthy mouth and a
healthy body go hand in
hand, but did you know
poor oral health can be
an indicator of some
major health problems?
Periodontal (gum) disease Good oral hygiene:
can introduce bacteria
and inflammation into • Brush and floss. Brush
our mouths, which has twice a day, morning and
the potential to migrate night, and floss once a
through the bloodstream day. This will prevent the
to other parts of our body buildup of oral bacteria.
and even to the brain. Once • See a dentist regularly.
the bacteria go systemic, Professional cleanings
they can wreak havoc are necessary to remove
and have been proven plaque that is missed
through research to cause from everyday brushing
cardiovascular disease, and flossing. If you’re
kidney disease, dementia experiencing symptoms
and more.1 The bottom line of gum disease such as
is that our whole body is bleeding or swollen gums,
interconnected, and in order bad breath or painful
to age healthy, we need to brushing, you should
keep all systems healthy, consult your dentist.
teeth and gums included.
• Avoid smoking. Smoking
Maintaining good oral can cause buildup of
hygiene can keep your body bacterial plaque on the
healthy and can decrease teeth. It also reduces the
your chances of facing health amount of oxygen in the
consequences down the bloodstream, so infected
road. It is better and more gums don’t heal as quickly.
beneficial to prevent these • Eat a healthy diet. An
problems than to treat them. anti-inflammatory diet
The actions to the right can that is high in vitamin C
help you maintain a healthy can help prevent and
smile and a healthy body.2 even reverse some of the
effects of gum disease.
To learn more about the connection between a healthy mouth and a Foods such as citrus fruits,
healthy body, register to join Dr. Rhonda Krause for her presentation salmon, blueberries and
in Loveland (see Say Ahh—How the Mouth and Body Are Connected, green tea are great for
and What You Can Do to Be Healthy in our class offerings.) maintaining healthy gums.
References:
Rose, L. F. (2019, January 15). Gum Disease & Systemic Health. Gum Disease and
1
Systemic Health. Retrieved from https://www.deardoctor.com/articles/gum-
disease-and-systemic-health/ HEALTHY AGING
2
Why your gums are so important to your health. Harvard Health. (n.d.). Retrieved
February 9, 2022, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/why-your-
gums-are-so-important-to-your-health
The difficult is what takes a
little time; the impossible
is what takes a little longer.
—Fridtjof Nansen
4 ASPEN CLUB NEWS
With a will, Know your numbers—
there’s a way.
In considering your plans for the
but what do they mean?
future, you may not be thinking You have probably heard many times that you should know your
about how you might benefit numbers when it comes to blood pressure and heart health. But
the health of our community. A what do the numbers mean, and which is more important?
charitable bequest is one of the
easiest gifts to make and permits Blood pressure is the force exerted on the inner walls of blood
you to leave a legacy. You can vessels as your heart pumps blood throughout the body. Systolic
create a bequest of any dollar pressure is the top number of a blood pressure reading and
amount, gift specific property represents the pressure against the vessel walls during the surge of
or designate a percentage of blood that happens with every beat of your heart. Diastolic pressure,
your estate in your will or trust the bottom number, represents the pressure during the rest phase
plan. If you wish to make a gift of between heart beats.
your IRA or 401(k) plan, this can
usually be done by filling out a Which is more important? Well, they both are important. If your
beneficiary designation form. systolic reading is consistently over 130, then by definition you have
hypertension, even if your diastolic is below 80. If your systolic is under
The following language 130 but your diastolic is over 80, then you have hypertension. This is
demonstrates how simple it is to not based on a single reading and must be confirmed by a health care
designate UCHealth Northern professional. The risk of death from ischemic heart disease and stroke
Colorado Foundation as a doubles with every 20 mm Hg systolic or 10 mm Hg diastolic increase
beneficiary of your will. among people aged 40–89. Systolic readings rise as we age and
vessels become stiffer and more plaque build-up occurs.
Specific bequest: I give and
bequeath to UCHealth Northern
Colorado Foundation, a Blood pressure Systolic mm Hg Diastolic mm Hg
qualified 501(c)3 non-profit category (upper arm) and/or (lower arm)
organization (Federal Tax ID
Number: 74-1894581), located Normal Less than 120 and Less than 80
at 2315 E. Harmony Road, Suite
200, Fort Collins, CO 80528, Elevated 120–129 and less than 80
the sum of $ to be
used for its unrestricted use High blood pressure
130–139 or 80–89
(or [Optional] for the following (hypertension) Stage 1
purpose: ).
High blood pressure
140 or higher or 90 or higher
Percentage bequest: I give (hypertension) Stage 2
and bequeath to UCHealth Hypertension crisis
Northern Colorado Foundation, (consult your doctor Higher than 180 and/or Higher than 120
a qualified 501(c)3 non-profit immediately)
organization (Federal Tax ID
Number: 74-1894581), located Source: American Heart Association
at 2315 E. Harmony Road,
Suite 200, Fort Collins, CO If you are checking your blood pressure at home, be sure to sit with
80528, % of my estate to your back supported and your feet flat on the floor (do not cross
be used for its unrestricted use your legs or ankles), rest for 5 minutes before and do not talk during
(or [Optional] for the following the reading. Factors that can affect blood pressure include caffeine,
purpose: ). stress, a full stomach, pain, tobacco use and alcohol use, among
other things. To get a good picture, check your blood pressure at
For further information: the same time each day. Blood pressure tends to be lower in the
For confidential information morning and rises throughout the day.
on how to create a legacy
gift, please contact Annette Written by Julie Knighton, MSN, RN, NC-BC
Geiselman, Development
Manager, at 970.237.7404 or
Annette.Geiselman@uchealth.org.
ASPEN CLUB NEWS 5
INSIGHTFUL
There are shortcuts to
happiness, and dancing is
one of them.
—Vicki Baum
Common myths
about advance
care planning.
Myth: I'm a parent
or spouse, so I will Advance care planning
automatically have
decision-making capability. for peace of mind today.
Fact: Selecting a health
care agent is important Advance care planning (ACP) helps you think about what matters to
in Colorado, as there you and make decisions about your future care so you can live your
is no default as to who extraordinary life today. The best way to ensure peace of mind now
can make decisions for is to make sure your loved ones and medical providers know where
adult children or spouses. you stand if serious illness or injury ever makes you unable to speak
Therefore, it's important to for yourself. Documents including medical durable power of attorney
designate your health care and a medical living will, also known as advance care directives, give
agent by completing a you a voice in decisions about your future medical care.
medical durable power of
attorney form. These powerful documents, paired with robust conversations with loved
ones and medical providers, ensure that you get the treatment you want
for yourself if you cannot communicate your preferences. Please view
Myth: Advance care
the column to the left for a few commonly held myths that should not
planning is only for the
stand in your way of creating your advance care directives.
elderly and seriously ill.
Fact: Anyone can become Start your plan today by attending an advance care directives-focused
suddenly ill or injured and class, or schedule an appointment to have your questions answered
need to make decisions and get your directives done. There are a variety of free options
about health care for local assistance available, and you don’t need an attorney to
treatments. Making your complete your plan. You can even complete your medical durable
values and preferences power of attorney through UCHealth’s online patient portal, My Health
known ahead of time can Connection, at uchealth.org/access-my-health-connection. Once
be a tremendous help. completed online, your document is available to your providers and
can be printed and shared with those named as decision-maker(s).
Myth: Once I create my
plan, it's final. By making advance care plans, you can decrease distress for you
and your loved ones, ensure you get the care you value and improve
Fact: We recommend quality of life through to the end of life.
reviewing and potentially
updating your advance Free assistance, documents and information are available through
directives if any of these the following sources:
six Ds occur: decade,
divorce, death, decline, • UCHealth Aspen Club presentations and individual appointments:
new diagnosis or 970.495.8560 or uchealth.org/aspenclub.
departure to another state. • Health District Advance Care Planning Team presentations and
appointments: 970.482.1909 or larimeradvancecare.org.
6 ASPEN CLUB NEWS
Aspen Club Monthly Features Registration
Recorded registration line available 24 hours a day at 970.495.8565. required
A guide to Aspen Club class locations:
Fort Collins: • Snow Mesa Clinic, Loveland:
• PVH: Poudre Valley Hospital, 4674 Snow Mesa Drive, Ste. 100 • MCR: Medical Center of the Rockies,
1024 S. Lemay Ave. • Prospect Medical Plaza, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave.
• FMC: Family Medicine Center, 1106 E. Prospect Road • MCR North Medical Office Building,
1025 Pennock Place • Hearing Rehab Center, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave., Ste. 2200
(the classroom is located at door #118) 1030 Centre Ave., Ste. A • Chilson Senior Center, 700 E. 4th St.
• FCSC: Fort Collins Senior Center, Longmont: Greeley:
1200 Raintree Drive • LPH: Longs Peak Hospital, • GMC: Greeley Medical Center,
• Fort Collins Aspen Club Office, 1750 E. Ken Pratt Blvd. 6767 W. 29th St.
1025 Garfield St., Ste. A • Longmont Senior Center, • Hearing Rehab Center,
• Westbridge, 1107 S. Lemay Ave. 910 Longs Peak Ave. 2018 35 Ave., Ste. A
(the classroom and Lifestyles room are
both on the first floor)
VIRTUAL-ONLY CLASSES—MS TEAMS IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL LEARNING
• Class link will be emailed a few days before class date. CLASSES (MS Teams)
• COVID-19 restrictions will dictate in-person class sizes.
Virtual Am I Hungry? Mindful Eating • Class link will be emailed a few days before class date.
Eight-Week Workshop
Learn how to be in charge Medicare 101
instead of feeling out of Are you turning 65 or new to Medicare? This
control. Learn to eat informative class will offer an overview of Medicare
foods you love without benefits, supplemental insurance, Medicare
overeating or guilt. Advantage Plans, prescription drug plans, preventive
Get tools to work with services and how Medicare works with employer
emotional eating cues. health insurance and more. This is presented by Aspen
Taught by Deanna Club Medicare Counselors.
O’Connell, UCHealth • Loveland: 2:30–4 p.m. Tuesday, May 10
dietitian and mindfulness MCR Big Thompson Room
practitioner. • Fort Collins:
• 4–5:30 p.m. – 9–10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 14, FMC, #118
Wednesdays, May 4–June 22 – 5:30–7 p.m. Monday, May 16, FCSC
Call 970.221.6644 to register;
Virtual Living Well With Lifelong Health refer to activity # 225400_01
Learn self-managing tools that help improve health – 9–10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 18, FMC, #118
in this six-week program. Learn skills that can be • Greeley: 2:30–4 p.m. Thursday, May 26
incorporated into daily life to help be in control of GMC conference room 3
your health.
• 5:15–7:30 p.m. Thursdays, June 16–July 21 Get Your Advance Directives Done
It’s important to have your advance directives
Virtual Let’s Get Moving completed, especially as we age. Learn about medical
Do you want to start moving again in the safety health care directives and have an opportunity to
of your own home with an experienced exercise complete and notarize them. If you prefer, materials
leader? Join Jennie Valdez for a gentle 30-minute from this class can be sent via email or mail, and a
seated exercise program in the comfort of your own follow-up consultation is an option.
space. Required: computer with internet access • Fort Collins:
or smartphone with camera and microphone – 9:30–11 a.m. Thursday, May 26, UCHealth Internal
capabilities. Go to uchealth.org/events to register. Medicine – Prospect Clinic, Ste. 100
Search for Let’s Get Moving. – 10–11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 9, UCHealth Internal
• 9–9:30 a.m. Thursdays, every month Medicine – Snow Mesa Clinic, Ste. 100
• No cost. • Loveland: 4:30–6 p.m. Tuesday, June 28
MCR, North Medical Office Building, Ste. 2200
ASPEN CLUB NEWS 7
Aspen Club Monthly Features Registration
Recorded registration line available 24 hours a day at 970.495.8565. required
Talk With a Health Care Professional Spotlight on Strokes
Join UCHealth physicians and staff Strokes occur when the blood supply to part of your
for a shared conversation on brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue
a variety of health-related from getting oxygen and nutrients. It is a medical
topics from head to toe. emergency that requires prompt attention. UCHealth
Plan for an interactive Neurology Specialists will talk about stroke prevention
hour of fun and helpful and amazing advancements in diagnosing and treating
health information. strokes. Time is of the essence!
Dinner will be provided • Fort Collins: 2–4 p.m. Thursday, May 12
to in-person attendees. Chilson Senior Center
Seating is limited. • Register by calling 970.962.2783;
• Longmont: refer to activity #191212-1.
– 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 17 Tired All The Time (TATT)
Dermatologist Dr. Brad Baack will speak This class is all about learning strategies to boost
about skin cancer your energy so that you are not TATT. Who doesn’t
– 5:30–6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 21, Dr. Maina Flecha need that? Doctors even refer to the acronym TATT
(internal medicine) will speak about the dating game in their care plans. Our own UCHealth community
• Register by calling Longmont Senior Center at health nurse, Julie Knighton, will discuss what might
303.651.8411 be causing your tiredness and what you can do to help
yourself have more energy.
• Greeley: 1–2:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 25
IN-PERSON CLASSES, HEALTH SCREENINGS
GMC conference room 3
AND SERVICES • Loveland: 1:30–3 p.m. Thursday, June 9
• COVID-19 restrictions will dictate in-person class sizes. MCR Big Thompson room
My Health Connection Open House New Member Orientation
Have you been wanting to set up your My Health New and longtime Aspen Club members are invited
Connection account in the UCHealth app, but need to learn about the benefits and services available
a little technical help? We’ve got you covered. Join us to them such as blood tests, health screenings and
for an opportunity to be guided through set-up and educational programs.
to have your questions answered. No appointment • Loveland: 1–2 p.m. Wednesday, May 25
necessary; just drop in and bring your phone. MCR Big Thompson Room
• Fort Collins: 9–noon Saturday, May 14 • Fort Collins: 2–3 p.m. Friday, June 24
Fort Collins Aspen Club office Aspen Club office
• Greeley: Call 970.495.8560 for new member
Living Well With Diabetes orientation dates coming up in Greeley
In this six-week program, learn what you can do to take
control of diabetes rather than letting diabetes take Say Ahh – How the Mouth and Body Are
control of you. If you are dealing with diabetes or living Connected, and What You Can Do to Be
with someone with diabetes, come learn skills to deal Healthy
with the life and emotional changes that come with Many people are aware of the relationship between
diabetes. This does NOT replace diabetes education. good health and a long life, but have you ever
• Fort Collins: 1–3:30 p.m. Tuesdays, May 10–June 14 considered that the health of your mouth is linked
UCHealth Medical Group to your overall health? As a general dentist for over
1106 E. Prospect Road, Ste. 100 27 years in Loveland and a member of the American
Academy of Oral Systemic Health, Dr. Rhonda Krause
Chronic Pain Management will talk about the connection between a healthy
For those living with chronic pain such as arthritis, back mouth and a healthy body.
pain, neck pain, headache or pelvic pain. Participants • Loveland: 2–3 p.m. Friday, June 10
learn how to identify triggers and learn skills to Chilson Senior Center
manage their pain on a day-to-day basis with exercise, • Register by calling 970.962.2783;
healthy eating, relaxation and more. refer to activity #391210-1
• Longmont: 10–11 a.m. Tuesday, May 10
LPH conference room A
8 ASPEN CLUB NEWS
Aspen Club Monthly Features Registration
Recorded registration line available 24 hours a day at 970.495.8565. required
Arthritis and Joint Diseases Staying Healthy in a Viral World
When joint diseases take over, there are many Learn seven important lifestyle factors for staying
helpful treatment options available. These might healthy and optimizing your immune system.
include injection therapy, physical therapy, Dr. Rhonda Krause, a general dentist in Loveland and
medicine, surgery, or a combination of these things. a member of the American Academy of Oral Systemic
Learn about robotic-assisted surgery options for Health, will talk about conditions that make people
arthritis-related joint diseases. Provided by Dr. Hale, vulnerable and how lifestyle can have an impact.
joint replacement surgeon. • Fort Collins: 2–3 p.m. Friday, June 24, FCSC
• Fort Collins: 2–3:30 pm Monday, May 9, FCSC • Register by calling 970.221.6644;
• Register by calling 970.221.6644; refer to activity #325408-01
refer to activity #225403_01
Living Well With Lifelong Health
Cognitive Wellness and Brain Health Learn self-managing tools that help improve health in this
Do you ever wonder what is “normal” six-week program. Learn skills that you can incorporate
for memory as you age? This into daily life to help be in control of your health.
class will focus on normal aging • Fort Collins: 1–3:30 p.m. Thursdays, June 30–Aug. 4
versus cognitive decline, brain- UCHealth Medical Group
healthy lifestyle and exercises 1106 E Prospect Road., Ste. 100
for cognitive stimulation. Taught
by Marlis Lane, occupational The Doctor in the Mirror
therapist with Health Promotion The health advocate you need most is YOU! Don’t let
Partners. your health situation take control of you—take control
• Fort Collins: 2–3 p.m. Thursday, June 9 of your health. It’s time to age with more vitality. Join
Westbridge classroom UCHealth Community Health RN Julie Knighton and
• Loveland: 9–10 a.m. Thursday, June 16 discuss ways to improve your health as you age.
MCR Big Thompson room • Loveland: 3–4:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 29
• Greeley: 2–3 p.m. Thursday, June 23 Chilson Senior Center
GMC conference room 3 • Register by calling 970.962.2783;
refer to activity #391207-1
Resiliency: A Steadying Inner Resource
Have you felt beaten down by repeated Driving Safely in Your Golden Years
disheartening news? In this class we engage in five Older drivers are generally safe drivers. However,
practices to build your resilience or ability to have aging can affect the skills necessary for driving. This
inner strength, optimism and flexibility in the face of presentation will review health factors that affect
adversity and disappointment. Taught by Deanna driving and propose 4 steps to improve driving
O’Connell, UCHealth registered dietitian and health. Taught by Heather Ackart, occupational
mindfulness practitioner. therapist and driver rehabilitation specialist with
• Fort Collins: 10–11 a.m. Wednesday, June 29 Health Promotion Partners.
FCSC Auditorium • Fort Collins: 3–4 p.m. Thursday, June 30
• Register by calling 970.221.6644; Westbridge classroom
refer to activity #325401-01 • Future dates to be offered in other communities
Ultra-Processed Foods – HEALTH SCREENINGS
A Negative Impact on Health
Discover what ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are Medication and Supplement Reviews
and why they have been shown to adversely impact UCHealth pharmacists review your medications,
health. Learn about healthy alternative foods and vitamins, supplements and over-the-counter drugs
beverages, as well as simple meal combinations to to check for overall medication safety and potential
replace UPFs in your diet. Class presenter is Laura adverse reactions, make sure you are getting a good
Young, registered dietitian and certified diabetes value for your dollar and answer medication-related
care and education specialist. questions. Appointments are required.
• Fort Collins: 10–11 a.m. Friday, June 10 • Fort Collins: 8 a.m.–noon Friday, May 6
FCSC Auditorium Aspen Club office
• Register by calling 970.221.6644; • Longmont: Please call 720.718.1267 to make
refer to activity #325400-01 an appointment
ASPEN CLUB NEWS 9
Aspen Club Monthly Features Registration
Recorded registration line available 24 hours a day at 970.495.8565. required
Balance Screenings IN PARTNERSHIP
These screenings, performed by physical therapists, WITH COMMUNITY AGENCIES
will assess your fall risk using the Fullerton balance test.
Exercise programs and balance and fall-prevention
COVID-19 Isolation Project
Larimer County Office on Aging is providing seniors
strategies will be shared based on your results.
in Larimer County with weighted blankets and robotic
• Fort Collins: Tuesday, May 10 or June 14
pets in an effort to foster comfort and companionship.
Westbridge classroom; call 970.495.8560 to
Benefits include a reduction in stress, depression,
schedule an appointment
anxiety, sleeplessness, agitation, social isolation and
• Loveland: Wednesday, May 25 or June 22
loneliness. Community members can apply for these
Chilson Senior Center
items themselves or for a loved one.
Call 970.495.8560 to schedule an appointment
• Please contact the Larimer County Office on Aging
• Cost: Free, thanks to grant-funding
for more information and to apply: 970.498.7750 or
The Nurse Is In for BP Checks and More adrc@larimer.org.
Have your blood pressure checked and visit with
UCHealth Community Health RN Julie Knighton to ask ONGOING SERVICES
questions about medications, chronic diseases and CarFit Assessments
healthy lifestyles. Julie can also help you complete CarFit teaches you how to
advance directives. make your car “fit you” to
• Fort Collins: 9 a.m.–noon Wednesdays, May 4 and increase safety and mobility.
June 1, Aspen Club office Using a 12-point checklist,
• Loveland: 9 a.m.–noon Wednesdays, May 11 and including steering wheel
June 8, Aspen Club office, MCR spacing, properly adjusted
• Schedule an appointment by calling 970.495.8560 headrests, seat belt usage
Blood Pressure Checks and more, occupational
No appointments necessary for a blood pressure therapist Marlis Lane or Heather
check performed by our UCHealth Community Ackart will help you drive safer for longer.
Health Improvement RN, Linda Strauss. Discussion • Fort Collins: 1-4 p.m. Mondays, May 9 or June 13
about healthy lifestyle and general blood pressure Health Promotion Partners, 2850 McClelland Drive
information is also available. • Appointments are required by calling 970.495.8560
• Loveland: 9–11 a.m. Mondays, May 23 and June 27 Toenail Service
Chilson Senior Center A specially trained nurse will do a lower-leg and foot
Hearing Screenings assessment, toenail trimming and filing, corn and
Certified audiologists from Hearing Rehab Center callus reduction, light foot massage and more.
and Alpine Ear, Nose and Throat will provide baseline • Greeley: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Wednesdays, May 4, May 11,
hearing screenings and answer your hearing-health June 1 and June 8. Call for location
questions. Appointments are required. • Fort Collins: 8:15 a.m.–3:45 p.m. every Tuesday,
• Fort Collins: 1–4 p.m. Thursday, May 5, Hearing Family Medicine Clinic, 1025 Pennock Place, Ste. 101
Rehab Center, 1030 Centre Ave., Ste. A (Please note: We are generally booked out 2–3
• Greeley: 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Thursday, June 16, Hearing months in advance.)
Rehab Center, 2018 35 Ave., Ste. A • Longmont: 1–5 p.m. Wednesday, June 22
• Appointments are required for both locations; • Prepayment of $38 is required
call 970.495.8560 • Schedule appointments at all locations by calling
970.495.8560
Bone Density Screenings
An ultrasound bone sonometer is used to measure the Preparing for Total Hip and Knee
bone density in your heel. Results should be shared Replacement
with your physician. Learn what to expect from joint replacement surgery,
• Fort Collins: 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Tuesday, May 17 including pre-surgery exercises, necessary equipment,
Aspen Club Office diet, pain management and recovery.
• Loveland: 2–6 p.m. Tuesday, June 21 • Registration is required. Visit uchealth.org, go to
Aspen Club office at MCR the classes and events section and search for joint
• Cost: $12; appointments and prepayment required replacement surgery
• For more information, please contact 970.624.4326
10 ASPEN CLUB NEWSAspen Club Fitness Opportunities
• Nine-week session May 2–June 30 • Register by calling 970.495.8560
• Space is very limited. Registration is handled on a first-come, first-served basis
• Classes will abide by all COVID-19 protocols assigned by UCHealth at the time
Wellness Walks Chair Yoga
All are welcome to join the following walks. Unless Safe and gentle exercises will tone and strengthen
the weather is particularly bad, this group walks rain muscles, loosen joints, lower stress, relieve tension and
or shine; however, if you’d like to opt in to our walker’s help you relax. No experience necessary.
email list for cancellation notices and a flyer with • 10:30–11:30 a.m. Wednesdays, May 4–June 29
more details about this group, please message us at Westbridge classroom
aspenclub@uchealth.org. • Cost: $51.75
• Fort Collins walks: Gentle Yoga
– 8 a.m. Monday, May 9 This class is perfect for those wanting a slower-paced,
Dixon Reservoir/Pineridge Open Space gentle yoga class with a lot of stretching and slower
– 8 a.m. Monday, June 13 movements. Please bring a yoga mat. Beginners are
Colorado Welcome Center welcome, as well as seasoned practitioners; however,
– 8 a.m. Monday, July 11 you must be able to get up from and down to the floor.
Cache La Poudre School River Trail • 2:30–3:45 p.m. Thursdays, May 5–June 30
– 8 a.m. Monday, Aug. 8 Westbridge Lifestyles room
Northside Aztlan Center River Trail • Cost: $51.75
– 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 12
Cottonwood Glen Park PWR! Moves
– 8 a.m. Monday, October 10, Fossil Creek Park The Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery (PWR) class helps
• Longmont walks: people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) stay better longer
– 7:30 a.m. every Thursday beginning May 5 with exercise. This fun, safe and motivational class
Locations TBD is designed to address multiple PD symptoms and
– For more information, call 720.718.1690 enhance daily activities.
• 1–2 p.m. Thursdays, May 5–June 30
Seated Tai Chi Contemporary Dance Academy
Tai chi uses gentle and fluid movements to increase • Cost: $40.50
strength and flexibility, decrease pain in joints,
decrease stress, reduce blood pressure, improve Men – Loosen Up!
balance and improve your sense of wellbeing. It’s never too late to start a stretching routine. This all
This class is a safe, seated option for those new to men’s stretching series will integrate moves to improve
practicing tai chi. flexibility and range of motion. Helps you with more
• 9:30–10:15 a.m. Mondays, May 2–June 27 energy, decreases potential risk for injury and might
Westbridge classroom even help your golf game. Please select one of the
• Cost: $40.50 class times below.
• 8–9 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, May 4–July 1
Westbridge classroom
• 9:15–10:15 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays May 4–July 1
Westbridge classroom
• Cost: $58.50
Aspen Club Ongoing Services
To find out more about these services, call any Aspen Club office or go online to uchealth.org/aspenclub.
Please note—not all services are available in all Aspen Club locations.
• Advance directives/notary assistance • Hearing screenings
• Aspen Club low-cost blood tests • Information and referral about senior services
• Blood pressure checks • Medicare counseling and assistance
• Bone density screening ($12) • Balance screenings
• Caregiver classes and resources • Toenail services in Fort Collins and Greeley ($38)
• Exercise and nutritional consultations ($30) • Total hip and knee replacement classes
ASPEN CLUB NEWS 11Non Profit Org
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PAID
Permit No. 168
Fort Collins, CO
Aspen Club
UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital
1024 S. Lemay Ave.
Fort Collins, CO 80524-3998
Return service requested.
IN THIS ISSUE...
Stroke Your mouth Advance care Classes and
awareness and your health planning services
page 1 page 4 page 6 page 7 Aspen Club
membership
14,049
National Healthcare Decision Day.
In honor of National Healthcare Decisions Day, April 16, you are encouraged to think about
your values and preferences in the event of serious illness and who you would want to speak
for you if you are unable. There are many myths surrounding advance directives—see page 6
for more information. And if you have questions or would like to meet with someone to help
you complete your advance directives, please call 970.495.8560 to schedule an appointment
or register for a class.You can also read
