Family caregivers are holding up our country’s broken long-term healthcare system. They often dip into their savings or cut back on their own health care — giving beyond their capacity to provide support for those they love. It’s time these sacrifices were recognized — and you’re part of a special group that can make a real difference to help.
New lawmakers from Colorado are in office — and Archuleta Seniors Inc. in partnership with AARP are pushing for them to prioritize much-needed financial relief for family caregivers. We’re supporting a bipartisan bill that would give working family caregivers a tax credit of up to $5,000. This is important: Family caregivers spend an average of over $7,000 out of their own pockets while caring for their loved ones. There are SO many family caregivers — in fact, over 48 million people across the country care for an older loved one. That’s more than the population of Texas and New York combined! And the power of family caregivers is undeniable: the value of their unpaid labor is over $600 billion every year.
Family caregivers have long been ignored and overlooked. We will not let that continue. And new lawmakers in Colorado and across the country can make a big difference by moving a caregiver tax credit forward. We are urging passage of the bipartisan, bicameral Credit for Caring Act (S. 1670/H.R. 3321) that would provide a new, non-refundable federal tax credit of up to $5,000 to eligible family caregivers to help address the financial challenges of caring for older parents, spouses, and other loved ones while remaining in the workforce. The vast majority of individuals 50-plus (92 percent) support a federal tax credit for family caregivers.
Family caregivers are the backbone of the U.S. care system, helping parents, spouses, and other loved ones live independently in their homes, providing about $470 billion annually in unpaid care. This care ultimately helps save taxpayer money by delaying or preventing expensive nursing home stays and hospital visits, though often at the cost of caregivers’ own financial security (including out-of-pocket expenses) and physical and emotional health. AARP believes family caregivers have earned support as they take on these costs and responsibilities which have been compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Credit for Caring Act would help working family caregivers offset the cost of some caregiving expenses such as a home care aide, adult day services, home modifications, assistive technology, respite care, transportation, or other supports that help them and their loved ones. The bill, unlike the existing child and dependent care credit, would help family caregivers who care for non-dependents or who do not live with the person they are assisting.
Eligible family caregivers assisting loved ones of all ages would receive the credit if the care recipient meets certain functional or cognitive limitations or other requirements certified by a licensed health care practitioner. The amount of the credit would be 30 percent of the qualified expenses paid or incurred by the family caregiver above $2,000, up to a maximum credit amount of $5,000. Individuals with higher incomes would be ineligible for the tax credit, and the bill includes provisions to prevent double-dipping with existing tax provisions. How would the Credit for Caring Act work? Eligible family caregivers assisting loved ones of all ages would receive the credit if the care recipient meets certain functional or cognitive limitations or other requirements certified by a licensed health care practitioner. The amount of the credit would be 30 percent of the qualified expenses paid or incurred by the family caregiver above $2,000, up to a maximum credit amount of $5,000. Individuals with higher incomes would be ineligible for the tax credit, and the bill includes provisions to prevent double-dipping with existing tax provisions
A federal tax credit for family caregivers has strong support across party lines among individuals 50-plus, with 96 percent of Democrats, 95 percent of Independents, and 87 percent of Republicans supporting it. For more information, or if you are interested in cosponsoring, please contact Rhonda Richards (rrichards@aarp.org) on AARP’s Government Affairs staff.
1st Annual Pagosa Springs Valentine’s Day Soirée: Fine Food and Wine Pairing
Join us for the 1st Annual Pagosa Springs Valentine’s Day Soirée Fine Food and Wine Pairing on February 14, 2025, from 6 PM to 8 PM at the Ross Aragon Community Center, 451 Hot Springs Blvd. Enjoy a selection of exceptional curated wines, savory appetizers from Mountain Bluebird Catering, and delicious chocolates from PS Chocolates, all crafted by local artisans. Live music from the gifted Gus Palma will enhance the evening’s ambiance. The soirée will also feature a silent auction with unique items and fantastic door prizes. This event invites everyone—singles, couples, and groups—to enjoy an unforgettable evening while supporting Archuleta Seniors Inc. Tickets are limited, so don’t miss out! Purchase tickets at https://givebutter.com/ValentinesWinePairingSoiree, call 970-264-2167, or visit our office.
Impact of Archuleta Seniors Inc.
Since 2023, over 1,000+ unduplicated older adults and caregivers in Archuleta County have benefited annually from our signature nutrition program, which offers nutritious meals served in a welcoming environment. In 2024 alone, we provided approximately 25,000 meals, including deliveries to homebound older adults, a convenient grab-n-go service and dine-in/socialize options. Annually, we also serve 600+ unduplicated older adults and caregivers via facilitating quality referrals to local organizations/agencies, providing social connection and support through various activities, including community clinics, fun games, educational classes, discussion groups, and creative and empowering community events.
Stretching & Mobility Weekly Class
Community members are invited to attend new free weekly classes, every Tuesday this fall and winter, from 9:30 am – 10:30 am at the Pagosa Springs Senior Center (451 Hot Springs Blvd. in the back of the Ross Aragon Community Center). The stretching and mobility classes for older adults (age 55+) are designed to help build balance in the body through functional exercises that aim to improve mobility and flexibility. Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of techniques that can help enhance overall movement efficiency. Though not necessary, a mat is recommended for this class. The program is instructed by local ballet dance instructor Dee Pitchon who will provide modifications to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the exercises.
Bingo
The Pagosa Senior Center will be hosting bingo twice a month on Friday afternoons from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm on Jan. 31, Feb. 14 and Feb. 28, March 7 and March 21. The price to participate is free and all we ask is you bring yourself and a friend for an hour of joyful fellowship. We will provide prizes from local businesses for all winners and snacks will also be provided. No RSVP required, just show up. All ages welcome, but we ask those 18 and younger to come with an adult chaperone. Seats are first come first serve. For more information contact us at 970.264.2167.
Senior Conversations
Join us every Monday at 1:15 pm for a series of “Senior Conversations” with local Bill Salmansohn. Bill brings to our conversations a variety of topics designed to stimulate discussions within a safe and comfortable environment as we explore our wellbeing and shared experiences. This is a unique opportunity to connect with others living within the Archuleta community for friendship and togetherness. Snacks will be provided. Afterward, hosted by Robin Williams, is a get-together created for those who wish to continue the conversation. This opportunity is typically from 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm, following Senior Conversations. The group occasionally reconvenes as an informal gathering at various local restaurants.
Share Lunch and Dine Monday through Friday
Open to All. Join us at the Silver Fox’s Den aka Community Cafe in person for daily hot/cold meals Mondays through Fridays downtown at the Ross Aragon Community Center between 11am and 1pm weekly. Pickup is available all week including Fridays. Our dining hall is open to all ages and welcomes you with kindness and warmth. We provide hot/cold meals for anyone in the community interested in a nutritious and delicious meal. For those 60 or older we request a suggested donation of $6.00, but no one will be turned away. There is a $10.50 charge for guests under the age of 60. To reserve your meal for the day please make your reservation via text or phone call 970-264-2167 by 9 am weekdays.
Community Cafe Menu
Thursday, January 30 – Cod & Shrimp Veracruz, Roasted Asparagus, Garden Salad, Vanilla Yogurt, Fruit, and Milk.
Friday, January 31 – Chicken & Dumplings, Roasted Cauliflower, Garden Salad, Fruit, Cranberry Nut Muffin, and Milk.
Monday, February 3 – King Ranch Chicken Casserole, Pinto Beans, Garden Salad, Fruit, Cherry Pie, and Milk.
Tuesday, February 4 – Pasta Primavera w/ Alfredo Sauce, Wilted Spinach, Garlic Bread, Garden Salad, Fruit, Muffin, and Milk.
Wednesday, February 5 – Greek Chicken Pita w/ Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Onions, Tzatziki sauce, Lemon Orzo, Garden Salad,Fruit, Baklava, and Milk.
Thursday, February 6 – Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles, Roasted Asparagus, Garden Salad, Fruit, Carrot Cake,and Milk.
Friday, February 7 – Jerk Chicken, Caribbean Beans, Tropical Fruit Salad, Cottage Cheese, Garden Salad, and Milk.
Medicare Call by Appointment
For anyone who needs help enrolling and navigating Medicare plans, the San Juan Basin Area Agency on Aging helps with Parts A, B, and D. They can also help you with fraud concerns and troubleshooting any billing issues you may be having. By appointment only. Please call the Medicare line at 970-264-0501; ext 4.
Hand & Foot Card Game
Whether you are new to Hand & Foot or interested in learning, please join us most Tuesdays at 1:15 at the Senior Center. This card game involves 4 rounds of playing until the final round is reached – some 2 to 3 hours later. Plan to stay and meet some new friends or catch up with those you have missed over the last couple of years. No experience is necessary so come willing to learn.
Support Our Elders Please support our ongoing operations and programming that provide critical services to some of the most vulnerable in Archuleta County. You may mail your donation to PO BOX 3444, Pagosa Springs CO 81147 or please visit our website: http://www.psseniors.org/ (donation button). Donation checks can be written to: Archuleta Seniors, Inc. We are located at 451 Hot Springs Blvd., in downtown Pagosa Springs. For more information about ASI, please visit http://www.psseniors.org/.
ASI Board of Directors has multiple vacant positions open. Terms are 3 years with an option to renew for an additional term. Potential candidates should be at least 21 years of age or older and must have a passion for adult and aging services. Please stop by our offices at 451 Hot Springs Blvd. to pick up an application or call 970-264-2167 for more information.