The vast amount of information shared online during tax season makes it a haven for identity thieves, and they're doing everything they can to take advantage of the opportunity! Here are several ways that identity thieves are targeting you, common signs of ID theft and steps to take if you become a victim.
Here are some of the common signs of identity theft according to the IRS:
Other signs of identity theft include:
If you discover that you’re a victim of identity theft, consider taking the following action:
Article Submitted by Senior Tax Advisory Group. Call them with any questions at 719-596-4844
As seniors age, one of the most meaningful gifts we can offer them is the ability to remain in the comfort of their own home surrounded by familiarity, independence, and dignity. For many families in Colorado Springs, that goal becomes possible with the support of Visiting Angels, a trusted provider of non-medical home care services designed to help older adults remain safe, supported, and comfortable right where they are.Whether a loved one needs help with daily tasks, companionship to prevent isolation, or assistance staying active and engaged, Visiting Angels Colorado Springs brings warm-hearted care and personalized support to seniors throughout the region.Supporting Seniors With Personalized, Non-Medical CareNon-medical home care focuses on the everyday needs that help seniors thrive at home long before medical-level care is necessary. Visiting Angels recognizes that every senior is different, so each care plan is thoughtfully created based on a familys goals and preferences.Services may include: Personal hygiene assistance and grooming support Mobility and walking assistance Support with bathing and dressing Medication reminders (non-clinical) Social companionship and meaningful conversation Meal planning and preparation Light housekeeping & laundry Support with errands and transportation Memory care support for those living with dementia or Alzheimer's Respite care for family caregivers These services are designed to allow older adults to maintain independence while receiving the help they need whether that's a few hours a week or full-time assistance.Why Families in Colorado Springs Choose Visiting AngelsColorado Springs is home to a large and growing senior population more than 15% of residents are age 65+, according to U.S. Census data. With its mountain views, active lifestyle culture, and abundance of veteran communities, its no surprise that so many older adults choose to age here.But living at home safely sometimes takes a little help.Visiting Angels has become a trusted partner to families because they: Offer customized care plans tailored to each person's needs Provide experienced, carefully vetted caregivers Create flexible schedules from hourly to 24/7 care Prioritize emotional connection, companionship, and trust Help seniors continue participating in their local community Whether a senior enjoys morning walks in Garden of the Gods, weekly visits to Colorado Springs Senior Center, or quiet days reading at home, caregivers help support routines that matter most.A Team That Cares Like FamilyThe caregivers at Visiting Angels arent just professionals they are compassionate individuals who feel called to serve others.Each caregiver undergoes thorough screening, skills assessments, and personality matching to ensure they are the right fit for a family. The goal is to build genuine bonds and lasting trust. Our team understands that letting someone into your home is deeply personal. We dont take that privilege lightly. We care for your loved one the way wed want our family to be cared for. [Contact Name], Visiting Angels Team Member This commitment to dignity, respect, and personal connection helps seniors feel safe and valued every day.Non-Medical Care That Supports IndependenceOne of the biggest misconceptions families have is that care at home is only needed when medical needs arise. In reality, early support with non-medical services can help prevent hospitalizations, reduce falls, and delay the need for nursing home care.Families often reach out for support when they notice: Loved ones are struggling with daily household tasks Mobility or balance challenges are increasing Forgetfulness is becoming more frequent Social isolation or loneliness is affecting mood or health The family caregiver needs rest or work-life balance By stepping in early, caregivers help seniors remain safely independent so they can age in place, where they feel happiest and most comfortable.Serving Seniors Throughout Colorado SpringsVisiting Angels proudly supports individuals and families across Colorado Springs and surrounding communities, including: Monument Briargate Fountain Old Colorado City Black Forest Manitou Springs Seniors in our area deserve care rooted in respect and community. From watching the sunrise over Pikes Peak to visiting local parks and churches, caregivers help seniors remain connected to the place they love most.FAQ: Understanding Non-Medical Home CareWhat is non-medical home care?Non-medical home care includes assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, meal prep, companionship, and light housekeeping without providing medical procedures or skilled nursing care.Is non-medical care right for my loved one?If your loved one needs help with everyday tasks, mobility, staying active, or maintaining their home safely, non-medical care may be a great fit.How is non-medical care different from home health care?Home health care is clinical and typically requires a physicians order such as wound care, nursing services, or physical therapy. Non-medical care focuses on comfort, independence, and daily living support.Can Visiting Angels help if my loved one has dementia?Yes Visiting Angels offers specialized non-medical memory care support designed to help individuals with Alzheimers or dementia remain safe, calm, and engaged at home.How do I know which caregiver will be assigned?Families participate in the process of selecting their caregiver to ensure a comfortable, compatible match.Visiting Angels: Where Compassion Meets QualityChoosing a home care provider is a big decision. Families in Colorado Springs trust Visiting Angels because of their commitment to safety, compassion, and personalized support.Whether your loved one needs companionship once a week or ongoing daily assistance, Visiting Angels is ready to help.Connect With Visiting Angels in Colorado SpringsIf you're exploring non-medical home care options for a loved one, Visiting Angels is here to guide you every step of the way.Learn More: Visit their Seniors Blue Book Listing Give your loved one the gift of independence and give yourself the peace of mind you deserve.
For many retirees, Social Security is the cornerstone of income. With the new changes retirees are experiencing a mix of routine program adjustments and sweeping policy changes. Here are some highlights of the most important updates to Social Security, as well as how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) reshapes the retirement landscape.Social Security Adjustments in 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA): Benefits rose by 2.5%, raising the average retired workers benefit to about $1,976 per month. Earnings Limits Increased: Retirees working before full retirement age can now earn up to $23,400 without full benefit reductions; those reaching full retirement age in 2025 face a higher limit of $62,160 before penalties. Taxable Wage Base Expanded: Wages subject to Social Security payroll tax rose to $176,100, ensuring higher-income workers contribute more. Repeal of WEP & GPO: The Social Security Fairness Act eliminated offsets that reduced benefits for public-sector retirees with non-covered pensions, granting higher or newly accessible benefits to many.How The One Big Beautiful Bill Act affects Social Security for Retirees The One Big Beautiful Bill Act delivers new tax relief for seniors: retirees aged 65 and older may deduct up to $6,000 per person (20252028), shielding much of their Social Security from taxation. For roughly 88% of beneficiaries, this eliminates federal taxes on benefits.The rules and regulations regarding Social Security and taxes can be complex and may change. Therefore, being informed about benefits and taxation is vital! Despite the complexity of Social Security and taxes, learning about these new changes are crucial to retirement income and tax planning.Managing finances in retirement involves more than simply drawing from savings. To secure stability and confidence, retirees must understand how income sources, Social Security benefits, and taxes interact. A coordinated strategy ensures resources last throughout later life stages.Consulting with financial and tax professionals may mitigate unexpected tax implications when receiving Social Security benefits and drawing down retirement savings assets.
Caring for a loved one with memory loss can be both an act of love and a journey filled with challenges. Families often face difficult decisions about how to ensure safety, dignity, and quality of life for their loved ones living with Alzheimers disease or dementia.At The Retreat at Sunny Vista in Colorado Springs, memory support is more than a service its a promise to provide compassionate, person-centered care that helps residents live each day with meaning, joy, and purpose.Visit The Retreat at Sunny Vista on Seniors Blue BookA Legacy of Compassionate Care in Colorado SpringsPart of the Sunny Vista community, The Retreat at Sunny Vista continues a legacy of serving seniors in Colorado Springs for over a century. Their reputation for excellence is built on a deep understanding of what families need most a trusted, supportive environment where their loved ones receive expert memory support and genuine human connection.Colorado Springs is home to a growing senior population with nearly 17% of residents over age 60 and an increasing number of families seeking professional memory support options. The Retreat at Sunny Vista meets that need by combining advanced dementia support practices with warmth, comfort, and a homelike setting designed for safety and serenity.What Makes The Retreat at Sunny Vistas Memory Support UniqueMemory loss affects each person differently. Thats why The Retreat at Sunny Vistas approach to Memory Support is personalized, evidence-based, and compassion-driven.Every resident receives an individualized plan that supports their physical, emotional, and cognitive health. From structured daily routines to meaningful activities, every aspect of care is designed to preserve dignity and foster connection.Key Features of The Retreat at Sunny Vistas Memory Support Program: Secure, thoughtfully designed environment for comfort and safety 24-hour trained staff specializing in dementia and Alzheimers support Personalized care plans based on each residents history, preferences, and abilities Engaging activities that stimulate the mind and nurture the spirit Family involvement and support to strengthen the circle of care Every resident has a story a lifetime of memories, experiences, and accomplishments. Our goal is to honor that story while helping them create new moments of joy every day. Faith Hopper, from The Retreat at Sunny Vista team Creating a Home That Feels Like FamilyFrom the moment you enter The Retreat at Sunny Vista, it feels less like a facility and more like home. The memory support neighborhood is purposefully designed to reduce stress, promote familiarity, and encourage social interaction.Comfort and Connection in Every DetailResidents enjoy: Bright, open living spaces filled with natural light Private and semi-private suites with personalized dcor Safe outdoor courtyards for fresh air and relaxation Cozy community areas for dining, activities, and gatherings These spaces are not only functional but also therapeutic helping residents feel calm, secure, and connected to others.The Power of Purposeful EngagementAt The Retreat, daily life revolves around connection, creativity, and care. Every activity is thoughtfully planned to promote cognitive stimulation, emotional well-being, and physical health.Residents might participate in: Music and art therapy, proven to evoke memories and reduce anxiety Gentle fitness and movement programs to encourage mobility and strength Reminiscence sessions that celebrate personal histories Gardening, crafts, or cooking classes to spark creativity and engagement Group events and social activities to maintain meaningful relationships These moments bring a sense of normalcy and joy helping residents feel valued, included, and purposeful each day.Highly Trained, Heart-Led CaregiversCaring for someone with memory loss requires not only skill but also empathy and patience. The Retreat at Sunny Vistas team members are specially trained in dementia communication strategies and behavioral support techniques.This ensures that residents receive professional, compassionate attention in every interaction whether its assistance with daily routines or simply sharing a warm smile.Families can rest assured that their loved ones are cared for by a team that treats them like family.Supporting Families Through Every StepThe journey of memory loss affects the entire family emotionally, physically, and mentally. The Retreat at Sunny Vista recognizes this and offers guidance, education, and emotional support to families navigating Alzheimers and dementia care.Families are encouraged to stay involved, visit often, and participate in care planning and community events. The staff also provides resources to help families understand the progression of memory loss and strategies for maintaining connection and communication.This collaborative approach ensures that both residents and families feel supported, informed, and empowered.The Local Difference: Serving Seniors in Colorado SpringsColorado Springs is a community known for its beauty, innovation, and heart and The Retreat at Sunny Vista reflects those same values.Local families choose The Retreat because it offers: Convenient proximity to area hospitals like UCHealth Memorial and Penrose-St. Francis Strong ties to the community, including partnerships with senior resources and health organizations Trusted reputation built over decades of service to local families With Colorado Springs senior population steadily increasing, The Retreat at Sunny Vista stands out as a leader in memory support excellence, combining advanced practices with compassionate, hometown care.How Families Know Its Time for Memory SupportRecognizing when a loved one needs specialized memory support can be difficult. Common signs include: Increased confusion or disorientation Difficulty managing daily activities or personal hygiene Wandering or safety concerns Withdrawal from social situations or favorite activities Caregiver burnout or exhaustion If these signs are familiar, it might be time to consider a supportive memory support community. The team at The Retreat can help families evaluate options and make a smooth transition with understanding and respect.Frequently Asked Questions About Memory SupportQ1: What is Memory Support? Memory Support is a specialized form of senior living designed for individuals with Alzheimers disease, dementia, or other cognitive impairments. It provides structured routines, secure environments, and trained staff focused on supporting memory, safety, and well-being.Q2: How does Memory Support differ from Assisted Living? While Assisted Living offers help with daily tasks like meals and medications, Memory Support adds an extra layer of security, structured programming, and dementia-specific care for cognitive challenges.Q3: Can families visit loved ones in Memory Support? Absolutely. Family involvement is encouraged and welcomed. The Retreat at Sunny Vista believes that regular family interaction plays a vital role in residents happiness and stability.Q4: What activities are available for residents? Residents enjoy personalized activities that stimulate memory, promote engagement, and provide joy such as music therapy, fitness classes, social gatherings, and creative workshops.Q5: How do I know if The Retreat at Sunny Vista is the right fit? The best way is to schedule a visit. Touring the community allows families to experience the environment, meet the staff, and see firsthand the quality of care and compassion that make The Retreat so special.The Bottom Line: Compassion, Dignity, and ConnectionFor families in Colorado Springs seeking a trusted, compassionate approach to memory support, The Retreat at Sunny Vista offers peace of mind and purpose-filled living for their loved ones.From personalized support and meaningful engagement to family collaboration and community connection, every aspect of The Retreats program is designed to enhance quality of life and celebrate every moment big or small. Our residents may be living with memory loss, but they still have so much to share. Every smile, every story, and every connection reminds us why we do what we do. Faith Hopper, from The Retreat at Sunny Vista team Take the Next Step Toward Compassionate Memory SupportIf your loved one could benefit from specialized memory support in Colorado Springs, connect with The Retreat at Sunny Vista today. Their caring team is ready to answer questions, schedule tours, and help your family find the support and peace of mind you deserve. Learn More: Visit their Seniors Blue Book Listing
Colorado Communications Organization provides education to our local community on current Life, Health and Wealth issues through educational programs developed by local experts. Communication is the key to success in everything you do. We are devoted to bringing current, useful information to Southern Colorado.
"Senior Tax Advisory Group is a company that specializes in serving the retirement needs of anyone over the age of 50. We have helped over 3,000 people in the greater Colorado Springs area since 2002. Our Review and Discovery process helps you discover if your current strategies match up with your future plans. Our proprietary process helps guide you through retirement. Well help you make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, lower income taxes, increase your estate size, and we are experts at removing unnecessary risk This proven process helps us create a sound plan based on facts and logic not emotion and opinions. Thats what makes our firm different!"
"Senior Tax Advisory Group is a company that specializes in serving the retirement needs of anyone over the age of 50. We have helped over 3,000 people in the greater Colorado Springs area since 2002. Our Review and Discovery process helps you discover if your current strategies match up with your future plans. Our proprietary process helps guide you through retirement. Well help you make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, lower income taxes, increase your estate size, and we are experts at removing unnecessary risk This proven process helps us create a sound plan based on facts and logic not emotion and opinions. Thats what makes our firm different!"