Can Advanced Care Planning Help Everyone?

When aging loved ones begin to need a little extra help, the right kind of care can make all the difference. For families in Boulder, Colorado, Windhorse Elder Care has long been a trusted name, offering personalized non-medical care that empowers seniors to live safely, comfortably, and independentlywhether in a private residence or care facility.Unlike traditional home care agencies that focus strictly on task-based services, Windhorse Elder Care takes a holistic approach that nurtures both body and spirit. Their non-medical caregivers provide everything from basic caregiving to geriatric care management, combining practical support with meaningful companionship.The Importance of Non-Medical Care in BoulderBoulder Countys senior population has grown steadilytoday, more than 17% of residents are over age 65. As the area continues to attract retirees who value its active, health-conscious lifestyle, the demand for compassionate, reliable non-medical care has expanded dramatically.Non-medical services play a crucial role for older adults who may not need skilled nursing but do need consistent help with daily livingfrom preparing meals and running errands to providing emotional and social connection.What Non-Medical Care Means at Windhorse Elder CareWindhorse Elder Cares model integrates personalized attention with clinical insight and deep respect for individual dignity. Their team of skilled professionals focuses on relationship-centered care that goes beyond a checklist of tasks.Their services include: Personal care and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) Light housekeeping, meal preparation, and transportation Medication reminders and safety supervision Companionship and emotional support Respite care for family caregivers Holistic geriatric care management to coordinate services and monitor wellbeing Each care plan is customized after a thorough assessment by a care manager, ensuring the right balance of independence and support.A Holistic Approach Rooted in CompassionWhat sets Windhorse apart is their belief that every interaction matters. As one team member explains: Our care is grounded in mindfulness and respect. Whether were helping a client make breakfast or taking a walk through their favorite Boulder park, our goal is to enhance their quality of life through connection and consistency. This mindful approach mirrors Boulders own valuescommunity, wellness, and active living. Its what makes Windhorse Elder Care not just a service, but a companion in lifes later chapters.Why Families in Boulder Choose Windhorse Elder CareFamilies throughout the Front Range turn to Windhorse Elder Care because of their reputation for: Experienced caregivers trained in dementia and chronic illness support Flexible scheduling for part-time, full-time, or 24-hour care Continuity of care through consistent caregiver assignments Professional oversight from care managers who monitor progress Heartfelt relationships that bring peace of mind to families For those balancing work, family, and caregiving responsibilities, Windhorse provides the stability and reassurance that loved ones are cared for by people who genuinely care.Non-Medical Care That Adapts to Changing NeedsAging is not static, and neither is Windhorses care model. Their team regularly reassesses each care plan, collaborating closely with family members, physicians, and other professionals to ensure that support evolves as needs change.From assisting with daily tasks to coordinating specialized care, Windhorse helps seniors age in placesafely, confidently, and with dignity.FAQ: Non-Medical Care in Boulder1. What is considered non-medical care? Non-medical care includes assistance with daily activities, companionship, and safety monitoringbut does not involve clinical or medical procedures.2. Who can benefit from non-medical care? Seniors living independently, those with early-stage dementia, or individuals recovering from illness who need help at home can all benefit.3. How is non-medical care different from home health care? Non-medical care focuses on personal assistance and daily living support, while home health care includes licensed medical services.4. Are Windhorse caregivers trained professionals? Yes, every caregiver undergoes thorough screening and specialized training to ensure safe, compassionate care.5. Can services be provided in assisted living or senior communities? Absolutely. Windhorse caregivers support clients in private residences or care facilities across Boulder and nearby communities.The Heart of Non-Medical SupportWindhorse Elder Care is more than a caregiving agencyits a community partner devoted to enriching the lives of Boulders seniors. Through skilled professionals and individualized care, they offer comfort, connection, and confidence to older adults and their families alike. Ready to learn more about how Windhorse Elder Cares non-medical services can help your loved one thrive?Visit their Seniors Blue Book listing here to connect with their team today.

Having just completed another Annual Enrollment Period, reviewing coverage options and costs, I thought it appropriate to learn some interesting facts about Medicare. Since President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicare into law on July 30, 1965, millions of Americans have relied on it for medical care.Part A and Part B, called original Medicare, were included in the 1965 law. In 1997, Congress created Part C, now Medicare Advantage, the private insurance alternative. In 2003, lawmakers added Part D, covering prescriptions.Today, more than 67.4 million Americans are enrolled over 60 million are 65+ and 7 million are younger people with disabilities. President and First Lady Truman were the first Medicare beneficiaries.The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has 10 regional offices, serving approximately 125 million people with Medicaid and Medicare coverage.Medicare helped desegregate hospitals after the Civil Rights Act. To receive federal funding, hospitals had to comply and desegregate.51 million people are enrolled in Medicare Part B, which helps pay for physician, hospital, outpatient, some home health, and preventive services.Last year, over 16 million people chose a private Medicare Advantage plan, like an HMO or PPO, as an alternative to original Medicare.Currently, 41 million Medicare beneficiaries have prescription drug coverage through a Medicare health plan or stand-alone prescription drug plan.Some items and services Medicare doesnt cover include:         Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)         Long-term care         Cosmetic surgery         Massage therapy         Hearing aids and exams for fitting themAs we approach the 60th anniversary of the Medicare and Medicaid Act, keep in mind that if you need assistance with your Medicare decisions, a licensed advisor can help. Theyll learn about your health goals and budget, present options, and help you enroll. Crystal Manning has over 35 years of experience assisting clients.  Editors Note: This article was submitted by Crystal Manning. She can be reached at 412-716-4942 or crystalmanning33@gmail.com. You may also contact her daughter, Dvyona Sedlacko-Stephens, at 412-657-3889 or djsedlacko@gmail.com. See ad on page 85.  

 The digital world offers incredible opportunities to connect, learn, and manage our lives more easily. Yet, for many older adults, the idea of navigating the internet can feel like standing at the bottom of a daunting staircase. Each new device and unfamiliar application can seem like another steep and challenging step.   If this is you, know you arent alone, only 26% of seniors feel confident using digital tools.[1] However, it has become increasingly important to use these tools in todays world. Want to pay your bills, or manage your finances, or go shopping? They say it is easier now more than ever, but for some people, going to the bank or store seems easier than doing your errands online. What if you had a supportive guide to help you build your digital staircase? Thats precisely what Tech2Elevate offers digital skills education under our personable team of digital coaches designed to empower you as you navigate the online world. Allow us to be your handrail, here to support you as you ascend the digital staircase at your own pace. Our motto that we promise to all our clients is that We meet you where you are. We believe that everyone, regardless of prior experience, can reach the top and enjoy the view that todays technology offers. Your Digital Staircase: What Steps Can We Help You Take? Our range of services are carefully crafted to help you build a stable digital staircase:          Online Safety and Security: We recognize that online safety is a significant concern as you first enter the digital world. Our workshops and individual sessions help you identify scams and phishing attempts, create strong passwords, and protect your valuable personal information.          Connecting with Loved Ones: Learn how to manage email, call and text, and social media platforms like FaceBook.          Finding Information and Entertainment: Stay up to date with news and stream entertainment.          Simplifying Daily Life: Learn to confidently use online banking, manage appointments through digital calendars, and navigate the steps to ordering groceries or prescriptions online. Visit us at tech2elevate.org or call us at (724) 262-6802 to take the first step in your digital journey!