Colorado Senior Advantage Newsletter. Living Better, Longer and More Enjoyably in Colorado.
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Travel•Health•Finance•Events•Resources
Issue of September 15, 2026  |  By Herm Brocksmith

Welcome to The Colorado Senior Advantage

Retirement planning, home equity and financial security for Colorado homeowners 62 and better.

Colorado offers some of the best opportunities in America for active adults. Whether you're exploring mountain towns, spending time with grandchildren, traveling, volunteering, or simply enjoying retirement, this newsletter is designed to help you make the most of your next chapter.

Twice each month, you'll receive practical health tips, money-saving ideas, travel destinations, local events, senior resources, and information that can help you live a healthier, happier, and more secure retirement. If you have ideas or would like to see something included, or even help out writing some content articles, please contact me at [email protected]. I'd love your thoughts and perspectives.

Feel free to forward this newsletter to a friend, neighbor, or family member who may enjoy it.

Feature story

Fall Is Colorado's Best Kept Secret

golden aspens along Kenosha Pass

Many Coloradans would argue that September and October are the most beautiful months of the year.

This year, experts expect Colorado's fall colors to arrive slightly earlier than normal, making mid-September through early October an ideal time for a scenic drive. Areas around Rocky Mountain National Park, Summit County, Aspen, Vail, and the Peak-to-Peak Highway are expected to provide exceptional viewing opportunities.

If you're planning a leaf-peeping trip, consider scheduling it a week earlier than usual due to Colorado's dry summer conditions. Pack a picnic, bring a camera, and invite friends along. Sometimes the best retirement memories are made just a few hours from home.

Some of the most popular fall drives

  • Kenosha Pass
  • Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway
  • Guanella Pass
  • Kebler Pass near Crested Butte
  • Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway
two friends walking a neighborhood trail
Healthy living

The Simple Exercise That May Add Years to Your Life

Walking remains one of the most effective forms of exercise available to older adults.

Benefits include

  • Improved cardiovascular health
  • Better balance and coordination
  • Reduced joint stiffness
  • Improved mood and mental health
  • Better blood sugar control

Try this simple goal: Walk 20 to 30 minutes daily, five days per week.

If 30 minutes seems difficult, break it into three 10-minute walks throughout the day.

Consistency is more important than intensity. Remember to wear supportive shoes, stay hydrated, and walk with a friend, companion, or your dog whenever possible.

a Colorado home in the fall
Money matters

Colorado Property Tax Benefits Many Seniors Overlook

Many Colorado homeowners are unaware that they may qualify for valuable property tax programs.

Available programs may include

  • Senior Property Tax Exemption
  • Property Tax Deferral Program
  • Property Tax, Rent, and Heat Rebate (PTC Rebate)
  • Tax-free equity draws from your home equity without a monthly mortgage payment

Qualified homeowners may reduce property taxes, defer certain taxes, or receive rebates depending upon age, income, and eligibility requirements. Colorado also provides certain retirement-income tax benefits for qualifying seniors.

If you are a homeowner with substantial home equity, you may be able to qualify for a growing line of credit with a HECM (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage). The cash equity can be a great way to have cash available when you need it, tax free.

Watch the on-demand HECM webinar

Consider contacting your county assessor's office or tax professional to determine whether you qualify. A few minutes of research could potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually.

Spotlight

Your home equity can be part of your retirement plan.

A HECM line of credit grows over time and lets you access tax-free cash when you need it, with no monthly mortgage payment. The free on-demand workshop shows how real people use it, with no cost, no pressure and no obligation.

Watch the free reverse mortgage workshop
a narrow gauge train through gold aspens
Colorado getaway

Take a Scenic Train Ride This Fall

One of Colorado's most enjoyable autumn experiences is riding through the mountains while the aspens turn gold. Several scenic rail experiences operate throughout the fall season, offering breathtaking views without the physical demands of hiking.

Many routes feature

  • Mountain canyons
  • Historic mining towns
  • Wildlife viewing
  • Spectacular fall foliage

For those who prefer sightseeing from a comfortable seat, a scenic rail excursion can be one of the best day trips in Colorado. Popular train excursions include the Royal Gorge Route, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Georgetown Loop excursions, and other mountain rail experiences that are particularly popular during peak color season.

Community events

September Highlights

  • Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival
  • Breckenridge Oktoberfest
  • Colorado Springs Senior Expo
  • Fall foliage drives throughout the mountain regions
  • Community walks, concerts, and senior programs taking place across Colorado throughout September
Fun fact

Colorado Trivia

What is Colorado's highest peak?

Answer

Mount Elbert is the highest peak in Colorado, with an elevation of 14,400 feet above sea level. It is located in the Sawatch Range near Leadville and is also the highest summit in the entire Rocky Mountains. Colorado has 58 "Fourteeners" (mountains over 14,000 feet). Mount Elbert is about 12 feet taller than Mount Massive, Colorado's second-highest peak.

Ask Herm

Question

What is the biggest mistake people make when approaching retirement, or in retirement on a fixed income?

Answer

Many retirees focus entirely on investments while overlooking healthcare costs, housing expenses, and maintaining adequate emergency reserves. A successful retirement plan addresses all three.

What people don't realize is that healthcare costs and housing costs are the two biggest expenses that seniors face. Having the wrong Medicare plan, or having huge healthcare cost exposure gaps, could devastate even the best retirement plans. A large housing expense or repair could cost tens of thousands of dollars.

By planning ahead today, having immediate access to tax-free cash reserves may be a smart move to protect your future retirement and provide peace of mind for your golden years.

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This website is for educational purposes and is not a commitment to lend. Program terms subject to change. Borrowers must continue to pay property taxes, homeowner's insurance, and maintain the home.

The Colorado Senior Advantage Newsletter. Issue of September 15, 2026.