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PAFC News and Views
May 2023
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We all know that age is just a number, and it is our shared responsibility to ensure that every stage of life is filled with joy, purpose, and fulfillment. That's why we are reaching out to you today with an incredible opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of those who are on their journey of aging gracefully. By supporting the Partnership for Age-Friendly Communities in Larimer County, you have the power to enhance the quality of life for countless individuals in our community. Your generous donation will empower older adults to overcome challenges, embrace new opportunities, and lead lives that are vibrant, active, and meaningful. TOGETHER, we can create a world where every older adult feels supported, cherished, and valued. Your contribution, no matter the size, will have a lasting impact and leave a legacy of compassion for future generations. Join us in this noble cause and let us come together to make a profound and positive difference in the lives of those who have given so much. |
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Thank you to our Mission Sponsor, Sonders Fort Collins! | |
A Message from our Newsletter Sponsor,
Andrea Chirich:
Spring Has Sprung!
What a wonderful Spring! All the rain has turned trees, grass (and weeds) beautiful shades of green! Trees are flowering and flowers are blooming. The birds are busy doing what birds do and
getting ready for their first batch of hatchlings. Spring is in full bloom.
Before I discuss the current real estate market, a quick note on this year’s Tax Valuations. Every two years our properties are valued for taxes. The Assessors office looks at an 18-month window of home
sales, usually from the preceding year then back 18 months. For this tax valuation period, the 18-month review window fell from January 2020 to June 2022, the height of the housing market frenzy. All
home owners, in all counties, are being hit with these high valuations. We have until May 31st in Larimer County, to protest for a lower valuation. It is well worth your time to protest your new valuation using existing home sale prices during that window of January 2020 to June 2022. Reach out to me or your real estate professional for assistance.
“So how is the real estate market” you ask? It is as positive as the spring we are having. The real estate market this Spring is very strong in several markets and price points. The Fort Collins market for homes priced from about $600,000 and below is competitive and fast-paced. Houses continue to go under contract in less than a week and often for over list price. It appears Buyers have adjusted to
mortgage interest rates in the high 5% and low 6% range and are eager to buy. Inventory of available homes remains below Buyer demand, keeping house valuations strong and stable.
In some towns outside of Fort Collins and at higher price points the real estate market is moving slower. Homes that are well-prepared for sale and priced correctly are selling, with average Days on Market at a more normal 45-60 days. For Buyers seeking new construction, most Builders have inventory of available new homes, and are offering incentives to help with closing costs, interest rates, or both.
If selling your home is on your spring agenda, preparing your home and pricing correctly will help you take advantage of the current market. If you are ready to buy a new home, the market has variety and a range of price points. Being pre-approved is still critical for a strong offer, and a fast decision of “this is the one” may be necessary in some neighborhoods and price points.
No one has a crystal ball, but we are anticipating no further increases in mortgage interest rates and by 3rd quarter of this year we expect mortgage interest rates may drop into the low 5%s. If you are considering Selling or Buying, or simply have questions about anything real estate, please feel free to reach out to me. I am happy to answer your questions and be a resource for all things real estate.
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Empowering Older Adults through
Coaching and Connectivity
As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it offers numerous benefits and opportunities for people of all ages. With the guidance of PAFC Tech Buddy coaches, older adults in Larimer County can harness the power of technology to increase confidence and foster meaningful connections with friends and family. Let's explore the benefits of technology coaching and engaging with loved ones in the digital age.
Technology Coaching: Bridging the Generation Gap
Technology coaching plays a pivotal role in empowering older adults to navigate the digital landscape confidently. By partnering with our experienced Tech Buddies, older adults can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to utilize various devices, applications, and online platforms. The benefits of technology coaching include:
Increased Confidence: Learning new technologies can initially seem overwhelming. With personalized coaching, older adults can build confidence in their ability to use devices and software effectively.
Enhanced Independence: By embracing technology, older adults can gain greater independence in their day-to-day activities. From online shopping and banking to accessing vital information, technology empowers older adults to manage tasks efficiently.
Improved Cognitive Functioning: Engaging with technology stimulates the mind, promoting cognitive function and helping older adults keep their mental faculties sharp. This aspect is particularly crucial in maintaining brain health and preventing cognitive decline.
Digital Connectivity: Bridging the Distance
Technology serves as a powerful tool for older adults to stay connected with loved ones, fostering social engagement and reducing feelings of isolation. Key benefits include:
Video Calls and Messaging: Platforms like Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime allow older adults to see and hear their friends and family, regardless of geographical distances. Regular video calls facilitate meaningful connections, combat loneliness, and promote emotional well-being.
Social Media and Online Communities: Older adults can join social media platforms or online communities tailored to their interests, connecting with like-minded individuals and participating in discussions, hobbies, and virtual events.
Virtual Learning and Entertainment: Technology enables older adults to access a wealth of educational resources, virtual classes, and entertainment options, such as those offered in our Virtual Gateways catalog. Online courses and streaming platforms offer a range of engaging content, fostering personal growth and mental stimulation.
Embracing technology and receiving effective coaching empowers older adults to lead enriched, more connected lives. By embracing technology coaching, older adults gain the skills and confidence necessary to navigate the digital landscape with greater ease. Leveraging technology for digital connectivity bridges geographical distances and fosters meaningful connections. It is essential for organizations like PAFC to continue supporting and encouraging older adults in embracing technology, as it holds immense potential to enrich lives and to thrive in the digital age.
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Show Your Appreciation for
Older Adults!
We are joyfully preparing for our June 24th Celebration of Older Adults event, and we need your help! Please send in your photos, funny or powerful quotes, haikus/poems, short stories, or anything else that creatively expresses your appreciation for the older adults in your life. We'd love to feature these meaningful tributes at our celebration!
Your tribute doesn't need to be flashy or fancy - what is most important is that it's from the heart. We can't wait to celebrate with you June 24th - no need to RSVP, just be ready for great music, really yummy food, and a TON of helpful resources for older adults!
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Celebrating Older Adults!
In honor of Older Americans Month, let us celebrate the remarkable contributions of older adults to Larimer County!
With wisdom forged through decades of experience, these individuals bring a wealth of knowledge, resilience, and perspective that enriches our communities in countless ways. Their wisdom and guidance serve as beacons of light, guiding younger generations towards a brighter future. Our Larimer County older generations infuse our society with an invaluable sense of history, sharing stories and lessons that bridge the gap between past and present. Their unwavering dedication to family and community fosters a strong sense of belonging and togetherness.
From volunteering their time and talents to mentoring the next generation, older adults exemplify the true spirit of compassion, empathy, and selflessness. Their continued pursuit of personal growth and lifelong learning sets an inspiring example for people of all ages.
In celebrating Older Americans Month, let us honor and cherish the immeasurable contributions of older adults, for they are the pillars upon which our society stands tall.
To all of our older adult friends and family members, THANK YOU for all that you do!
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How Are You Celebrating Older Adults in Your Life?
There are so many ways to show our genuine appreciation for the older adults in our lives - how are you choosing to celebrate those special individuals who have impacted you?
- Write heartfelt thank-you notes or letters expressing gratitude for their contributions and impact on the community.
- Offer to help with everyday tasks like grocery shopping, running errands, or household chores.
- Bake or cook a homemade meal and deliver it to an older adult's home as a gesture of kindness.
- Take the time to listen actively to stories, experiences, and wisdom, showing genuine interest and respect.
- Send them a small gift or care package with items they enjoy, such as books, puzzles, or their favorite snacks.
- Offer to accompany a friend or family member on walks or outings to local parks, museums, or events, providing companionship and social interaction.
- Share your skills or hobbies with them by offering to teach a craft, play a musical instrument, or engage in a shared interest.
- Create a photo album or scrapbook capturing precious memories and moments shared with them.
- Offer to assist with technology-related needs, such as setting up a new device, troubleshooting issues, or teaching them how to use specific apps or programs.
- Simply spend quality time with your older adult friends and family, engaging in conversations, playing board games, or enjoying a cup of tea together. Your presence and genuine care can make a world of difference in their lives.
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The Benefits of an Age-Diverse Workforce
PAFC's Age-Friendly Workplace Initiative is on a mission to educate local business about the many benefits of an age-diverse workforce. Wondering what some of those benefits might be, and how you can help spread the word? You've come to the right place! Your challenge: Choose 2 businesses in your network and pass this information along to them!
Cultivating an age-diverse workforce in any industry can bring numerous benefits. Here are just some of the benefits that arise from having employees of different age groups:
- Enhanced customer service: An age-diverse workforce can better understand and cater to the needs of customers of all ages, leading to improved customer satisfaction.
- Diverse perspectives: Employees from different age groups bring varied life experiences, ideas, and viewpoints, fostering creativity and innovation within the organization.
- Knowledge sharing: Older employees possess valuable industry expertise that can be shared with younger colleagues, promoting learning and development across the organization.
- Mentoring opportunities: Older employees can serve as mentors to younger employees, providing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities.
- Customer insight: Employees from different age groups can offer valuable insights into consumer behavior and preferences, helping industries tailor products and services to target markets.
- Reduced turnover: Building an age-diverse workforce fosters an inclusive environment that promotes employee engagement, job satisfaction, and loyalty, leading to lower turnover rates.
- Increased customer loyalty: Customers appreciate interacting with employees who represent a diverse range of age groups, fostering a sense of connection that can lead to increased loyalty.
- Greater market reach: An age-diverse workforce enables any industry to reach a broader range of customers, as employees can connect with different age demographics more effectively.
- Enhanced brand reputation: Organizations that prioritize age diversity demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity, which can enhance their brand reputation among customers and stakeholders.
- Improved problem-solving: Combining the perspectives and problem-solving approaches of different age groups can lead to more comprehensive and effective solutions to challenges faced by many industries.
- Employee well-being: A diverse workforce that considers the needs and preferences of employees across different age groups can foster a supportive work environment that promotes overall well-being.
Want to learn more about how age-diversity in your workplace can enhance outcomes?
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Getting Back to Work?
Are you age 55 or better and looking to re-enter the workforce or make a career switch? Interested in exploring new job opportunities, but not sure where to start? If you were adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, our workforce program may be able to help. Learn more below and contact us today!
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