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Counseling and Mental Health
Counseling and Mental Health
As part of their EAP services, Mines and Associates offers life coaching to help you prepare for the transition from work to retirement. They can also refer you to CS Advocare, a service that can assist you with Medicare and Social Security benefits.
The Aging Clinic of the Rockies offers counseling services and psychological testing for older adults and their families.
Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) at Blue Moon Counseling offer specialized counseling and psychotherapy services for older adults.
Dr. Pamela Brody, clinical psychologist and founder of Heart Bloom Therapy, offers life transition therapy.
NAMI offers mental health programs, services, and support groups, including family member support groups. Please see below for links to local NAMI chapters.
The Psychology Today website can help you find therapists, psychiatrists, treatment centers, and support groups. It’s easy to filter by location, specialty, insurance (including Medicare/Medicaid), and more.
SAMHSA offers help specifically for older adults regarding treatment, support, and other resources for mental health, alcohol, and drug issues.
Taking care of your health
Finding treatment and care
Grief
Transportation
Elder abuse
The VA offers resources to help veterans access mental health services and additional support.
Social Connections
Social Connections
Maintaining social connections helps build routines, expand relationships, improve mental health and well-being, and support cognitive and physical health.
West of 50 at the Center on Colfax provides a welcoming space and social support for adults 50 and older in the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.
Programs and events
Newsletter
Resources
Libraries
Libraries
Public libraries offer events, classes, and resources for adults of all ages. Please see below for links to library resources near you.
Arapahoe Libraries - Arapahoe Libraries offer resources for older adults and care partners.
Aurora Public Library - The Aurora Public Library offers Adult Programs and Events and Book Clubs.
Douglas County Libraries - The Douglas County Libraries offers Ageless Adults - services, events, and opportunities for adults of all ages.
Denver Public Library - The Denver Public Library offers events, classes, information, and resources for older adults through its Older Adult Programs.
MeetUp is an online resource for finding people in your area with similar interests. You can find social events and groups by location, interest, or group type (i.e., Over 50).
The Parker Senior Center offers activities, shared meals, group events, and learning opportunities for adults 50 and older.
RECCS is an organization made up of retired CCSD educators. RECCS provides events, classes, and support. The annual dues are $20, and new retirees receive one year free.
Senior Planet in Denver provides workshops, presentations, social events, coffee bar, support groups, and free Technology classes for adults 60 and older.
Part-Time Work and Giving Back
Part-Time Work and Giving Back
Volunteering or taking on a new job in retirement provides a sense of purpose, provides social connections, builds routine, and keeps you mentally and physically healthy.
** Additional volunteer opportunities are available at many of the organizations listed under Resources for Special Circumstances.
Colorado AmeriCorps offers full-time volunteer opportunities for educators. AmeriCorps members receive a modest allowance and may also receive additional benefits.
CEA offers advocacy opportunities for retired educators in Colorado who wish to continue supporting education in our state.
CVA provides volunteer opportunities for adults aged 55 and older, including the Senior Volunteer Program (55+), the Foster Grandparent Program (55+), and general volunteering.
Cool Jobs is a website for posting and discovering unique jobs across various industries.
Community members are paired with CCSD schools for volunteer opportunities based on skills and experience.
If you’re interested in staying connected to the classroom, you can apply for your substitute teaching license. To work as a substitute in Cherry Creek Schools, click the link below:
Lifelong Learning
Lifelong Learning
Taking classes in retirement provides social connections, builds routine, and keeps you mentally and physically active.
OLLI is a national, non-credit educational program for adults. At the DU chapter, annual memberships are $65, with course fees around $50 for a 4-week course and $70 for an 8-week course. DU OLLI members can also get a reciprocal membership at CSU for $10. Members interested in facilitating courses are encouraged to submit proposals.
OLLI is a national, non-credit educational program for adults. At the CSU chapter, annual memberships cost $25 per term. Additional course fees may apply. CSU OLLI members can also obtain a reciprocal membership at DU for $20.
CSU provides learning opportunities for adults aged 50 and older. On the lifelong learning webpage, you can choose from different learner categories in the “I am a..." dropdown menu. Please see the links below for opportunities at CSU.
Chagemakers is a four-month structured course designed for retired professionals to explore their strengths, set goals, and identify next steps. The program is a hybrid, cohort-based program that meets twice a week in the evenings. The cost is approximately $3600.
At CU Denver, Coloradans age 60 or older can audit up to two eligible undergraduate courses in person, on a non-credit/non-tuition basis. Currently, the only cost is the purchase of a campus ID.
At CU Boulder, adults aged 55 and older can audit courses for a flat fee of $95 per semester. CU Boulder alumni pay $85 per semester, and veterans audit courses for free with a copy of their DD214.
Adults 65 and older (or 62+ and retired) can audit classes as non-degree students, space permitting, without paying tuition and mandatory fees. Some programs may charge course or department fees or require instructor approval.
Physical Health
Physical Health
Staying current with regular medical check-ups and vaccinations is crucial to maintaining good health. UnitedHealthcare provides this checklist for determining preventive care and vaccinations, customizable by age and gender.
Staying physically active also remains just as important in retirement as at other stages of life—not only for physical health but also for mental health and social connection. The organizations and resources listed below provide programs, activities, events, and discounted rates for older adults, helping you stay physically active during retirement.
Aurora Parks and Rec offers several options for older adults. If you are 62 or older, you qualify for a discounted membership. Aurora Parks and Rec also participates in the SilverSneakers and Renew Active programs. See the links below to access opportunities at Aurora Parks and Rec.
When looking for activities on the Denver Parks and Rec website, you can find options for adults 50+ by searching for Active Older Adults (AOA). See the registration link below for more details.
Register online for Denver Parks and Rec activities
Denver residents aged 60 and older who are not already eligible for another discount program can join Denver Prime for FREE access to all the city’s recreation centers and pools, including drop-in fitness classes and clubs. Membership also provides access to the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave in Denver's Lookout Mountain Park. Additional reduced-rate memberships are available for adults 65 and older. See the links below for Denver Prime and membership details.
Parker Parks and Rec offers fitness and wellness classes, sports leagues, and enrichment programs for older adults. If you are 62 or older, you qualify for a discounted membership. Parker Parks and Rec also participates in the SilverSneakers, OnePass, and Renew Active programs.
Trails Recreation Center offers an Active Aging program. If you are 62 or older, you qualify for a discounted membership. Additionally, Trails Rec Center participates in the SilverSneakers, OnePass, Renew Active, and other similar programs.
The YMCA of Metro Denver provides programs for active older adults and takes part in the SilverSneakers, Silver & Fit, and Renew Active programs. Click the links below for more information.
Reduced-rate Access to Health and Fitness Programs for Older Adults
These programs provide discounted rates at recreation and fitness centers through various health insurance companies. See the links below to learn more about these programs.
Preventive Care and Vaccinations
Preventive Care and Vaccinations
Click here to access UnitedHealthcare's customizable checklist for determining preventive care and vaccinations based on age and gender.
Dental Health
Dental Health
As your body ages, caring for your teeth and gums becomes increasingly important to prevent common dental problems such as dry mouth, gum issues, cavities, oral cancer, and side effects of medications. Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) or private dental insurance are necessary to pay for regular cleanings and preventive services. The following resources in Colorado provide reduced-rate dental services.
The Colorado Community Health Network operates clinics that offer primary care, dental, and behavioral health services, as well as an on-site pharmacy. Use the “find a clinic” button to locate clinics by location.
Concorde provides community hygiene clinics where Concorde dental hygiene students operate under the supervision of the program director and a licensed dentist.
Affordable, comprehensive dental care is available at student-provider clinics (dental students) and advanced-care clinics (experienced dental residents). Providers at both clinics work under faculty supervision and accept Health First Colorado. Care is also offered at faculty practice clinics, which charge standard dental fees. Faculty Practice Clinics do not accept Health First Colorado. To see the fees for each provider option, visit CU Anschutz School of Dental Medicine - Dental Fees.
Denver Health provides a variety of preventive dental services. In addition to accepting Medicare Choice/Select, Medicaid, and private insurance, patients without dental coverage may qualify for the Denver Health Sliding Fee Discount Program (DHSFDP).
The Community Dental Clinic at FRCC offers affordable preventive dental care, provided by dental hygiene and dental assisting students under the supervision of licensed dental faculty and professionals. Licensed dentists also provide care at the clinic at a low cost. At the dental hygiene clinic, you can receive treatment from a hygiene student supervised by licensed hygienists.
The VA Medical Center offers various dental services exclusively for eligible Veterans. To verify your eligibility, call 303-399-8020.
Tobacco and Substance Use Support Services
Tobacco and Substance Use Support Services
In addition to the tobacco and substance use supports linked on the Physical Wellness page, the following resources offer specialized tobacco and substance use support for adults aged 50 and older.
A SAMHSA resource specifically for older adults regarding treatment, support, and other resources for mental health, alcohol, and drug issues.
Taking care of your health
Finding treatment and care
Grief
Transportation
Elder abuse
The VA offers resources to help veterans access mental health services and additional support.
Private Health Insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid
Private Health Insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid
There are several options for continuing health coverage after you retire. Each retiree’s situation, options, and best fit will vary. For more information or questions about the options listed below, contact your HR representative. You can also find your HR representative’s name by logging into your my.cherrycreek Oracle account and selecting “Benefits.” On the right side of your benefits page, you will see the name and contact details for your benefits representative. For employees retiring at the end of the current school year, please plan to attend one of the upcoming Retirement Meetings.
ACA Eligibility
ACA Eligibility
Full-time employees who choose to continue working with CCSD after retirement in an hourly role, such as a substitute teacher, may be eligible for continued benefit coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The ACA allows you to maintain benefit coverage for a period after retirement as if you were still a benefit-eligible employee. Your benefits representative can confirm your eligibility.
Colorado’s online marketplace for private health insurance plans.
The Colorado PEAK website allows you to apply for and manage your Health First Colorado (Colorado Medicaid program) benefits, including medical, food, and cash assistance.
Federal health insurance for adults 65 years and older and those with qualifying disabilities.
A comprehensive health benefits plan provided through PERA that includes dental, vision, and Medicare coverage.
COBRA insurance lets you extend your employer-sponsored health coverage for a limited period of time. CCSD provides COBRA insurance through UnitedHealthcare. Visit the CCSD Benefits COBRA webpage for more details or contact your Benefits representative.
Trusted Sources for Health and Wellness Information
Trusted Sources for Health and Wellness Information
Finding trustworthy health information online can be challenging. Below are links to some of the most common sources of reliable health information. This article from the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute on Aging also provides helpful guidelines on identifying trustworthy health information.
Educational materials for older adults and caregivers cover various topics in wellness, preventive care, self-responsibility, independence, and maintaining connections with family and community. The information is professionally reviewed by members of the American Gerontological Society.
The Health section of the AARP website offers medically reviewed articles on nutrition, medication, fitness, and more for adults 50 and older.
The CDC website offers a database of information, education, statistics, and more related to health topics.
Harvard Health Publishing offers articles and information on common conditions, staying healthy, online resources, and expert answers to common health issues.
The Mayo Clinic website provides a health library with expert-reviewed information on diseases, symptoms, treatment options, and healthy living.
A service of the National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus offers a directory of health topics, drugs, and medical tests.
NIA is a division of the National Institutes of Health that provides comprehensive, science-based information on healthy aging and common health issues among older adults.
Financial Health
Financial Health
When planning for retirement, it is important to understand the payouts you can expect from your PERA or other retirement accounts. You are encouraged to contact a PERA representative directly with any questions about your PERA retirement account. Additional retirement information is available on the Organizational Wellness Retirement Plans and Information page. Below are links to other resources that may be helpful.
An informational page on the PERA website that explains what to expect from your PERA contributions after you retire.
Charles Schwab - Financial Tips
Charles Schwab - Financial Tips
Charles Schwab has published the following articles to help older adults protect their finances and financial interests:
If you're worried about the financial decisions of another older adult in your life, Charles Schwab provides a Financial Exploitation Prevention Checklist.
CSPERA is a member-led organization dedicated to safeguarding pension security for retirees, providing pension representation, education, and numerous other resources.
Resources for Special Circumstances
Resources for Special Circumstances
Life can bring unexpected challenges. Whether you need assistance for yourself, a loved one, or an aging parent, many organizations in Colorado are ready to help. Many of these resources also provide eldercare and caregiver support, which are also available on our Eldercare Resources page. Many of the organizations listed below also provide volunteer opportunities.
An online source for education, news, and resources for older adults, their families, and caregivers.
A local organization offering information and resources for older Coloradans, their families, and caregivers in the following areas:
Articles, guides, webinars, news events
Adaptive medical devices and technologies
Aging in place
Disability services and programs
End-of-life services
Food access and delivery
Government and veteran programs
Housing help
Job assistance for 50+
Medicaid, Medicare coverage, finance, legal, insurance
Medical and wellness care
Social, learning, life enrichment
Transportation services
A state office that helps older adults, their families, and caregivers find long-term services and support options.
planning for long-term service and support needs
counseling/support with decision-making
information and assistance
A state office that helps senior adults, their families, and caregivers find support and resources.
Adult protective services
Adult unit of aging (additional resources)
Veterans’ community living centers
A food bank in Southern Colorado that participates in the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, a federal initiative providing free extra food to low-income adults aged 60 and older.
A local resource for older adults, their families, and caregivers since 1980 offering support in the following areas:
Counseling and referral services for long-term care, caregiving, housing, financial services, advance care planning, legal services, and more
Physical and mental health services, including grants for dental care and short-term mental health counseling
Telephone buddies and holiday food baskets
Online information through toolkits, newsletters, databases, guidebooks, and fact sheets
Application assistance for Medicare/Medicaid, utility assistance, food insecurity, and economic security
Education and training for professionals in the field of aging
Consumer education
Events
Advocacy on behalf of older adult services in Colorado
A radio series highlighting current news andissues facing older adults in Colorado.
A government resource that assists older adults, their families, and caregivers in finding programs and services that promote safety, dignity, and independence.
Consumer financial protection
Resource guide
Aging well
Government programs
Free transportation
A government resource within the Denver Office of Aging to assist older adults, their families, and caregivers in finding support in the City and County of Denver in the following areas:
Life enrichment and engagement services
Crime victim support services and resources
Emergency services
Employment
End-of-life services
Financial assistance
Grandparent services
Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and blind services
Healthcare
Home support services
Hospice
Housing, eviction, and unhoused
Information and referral hubs
Legal services
Mental health services
Nutrition and meals
Services for diverse populations
Prescription assistance
Transportation
A Douglas County office that assists older adults, their families, and caregivers in finding resources in the following areas:
Employment, Housing, and Food Assistance
Healthcare and Mental Health
A Colorado online resource and confidential helpline for aging and disability services. Resources are available on the website or by dialing 211 to contact the Colorado confidential helpline.
Caregiver resources
Senior Housing
Long-term care services
Aging and disability
Transportation
Adult protective service
Senior employment
Social Security
A resource from CSU Extension for grandparents who are the primary caregivers of their grandchildren, offering support with education, health, legal, and parenting concerns.
An online database to assist adults aged 50 and older in Douglas County in finding resources. Some resources are available to those outside Douglas County. The database also includes information for senior adults.
Information and Service Contacts
Activities
Adventures in Housing
Advocacy
Aging Well
Associations and Support Groups
Caregiving
Consumer Alerts
Dental Resources
Elder Abuse
Emergency Alerts
Emergency Financial Assistance
Emergency Services
Employment
End of Life Planning
Fall Information
Food Banks/Food Assistance
Grandparenting
Handyman
Hearing Loss Resources
Highlands Ranch Community Websites
Home/Medical Supplies and Equipment
Hospitals
Housing Placement
Immunizations
LGBTQ+
Library Services
Living and Aging Well
Meals on Wheels
Medicare
Medicaid
Medical Emergencies
Memory Care/Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Mental Health Resources
Nutrition Services
Recreation/Events
Suicide Prevention
Support Groups
Tax Information
Transportation
Veteran’s Services
Vision Services
Volunteering
A resource for locating your local area agency on aging and accessing services for older adults, their families, and caregivers.
Nutrition Programs
Health & Wellness
Transportation
Information & Referral
In-Home Services
Homemaker & Chore Services
Case Management
Dental & Vision Assistance
Elder Rights
Caregiving Programs
SHIP Medicare Counseling
Long Term Care Ombudsman
A service of Colorado’s PBS station offering resources, webinars, stories, and events for older adults in Colorado and their caregivers.
A Colorado resource for locating in-home and out-of-home support services for senior adults. The website also provides resources to support caregivers.
A resource from Colorado Springs that provides services, activities, and companionship for older adults, their families, and caregivers.
Transportation
Food (food assistance, meal delivery, lunch with others, lunch to go)
Housing
Support and Resources for daily living
Companionship and Activities
Caregiver support (resources, mental health and wellbeing, support group)
A home-sharing program in Colorado designed for seniors that helps older adults lower their housing expenses by pairing them with roommates.
A national non-profit organization providing advocacy, information on aging and health, upcoming events, and news about healthy aging and equitable access to care.
A national organization that offers resources, tools, best practices, and advocacy related to issues facing older adults. The Aging Well section provides information on the following topics:
Caregiver Support
Chronic Diseases
Fall Prevention
Health and Wellness
Nutrition and Exercise
Aging in Place
Benefits and Assistance
Medicare
Personal Finance
Work, Job Training, and Retirement Resources
A national directory for locating resources and services for older adults by location.
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