HomeMy Public PortalAboutMarch 2019
1673 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631 • (508) 896-2737 • Fax (508) 896-7587
Hours: 8:00am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday
Denise Rego, Director Andrea Nevins, COA Board Co-Chair Alice Stelzer, FOBE President
Sharon Tennstedt, COA Board Co-Chair
March 2019
MISSION STATEMENT: To support and advocate for older adults and their families by
providing programs, services and resources that promote independent living and quality of life.
A Matter of Balance
Informational Session: Friday, March 1
Classes held on Fridays:
March 8 - April 26
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
A Matter of Balance is an educational and exercise
program developed at the Roybal Center at Boston
University. If you are concerned about falling and want
to improve your strength, flexibility and balance, this is
the class for you.
The goal is to acknowledge the risk of falling but
emphasizes practical coping strategies to reduce your
fear. Meetings are led by 1 or 2 trained coaches.
An Informational Session will be held on
Friday March 1st from 1:00 - 2:00pm at the
Brewster COA. Class will run every Friday
from 1:00 - 3:00pm beginning on March 8th and
ending on April 26th.
To register for this FREE program, please call
Amy Chapman at the VNA at
508-957-7423.
A Timely Reminder:
Daylight Saving time begins on
Sunday, March 10. Remember to
set all clocks forward one hour,
and remember to check the
batteries in your smoke-detector(s) too!
Spring officially begins on Wednesday, March 20!
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at the COA
Monday, March 11
1:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Come get into the spirit of St. Patrick’s
Day with us as we welcome musician Bill Reidy.
Bill offers an entertaining one-man show that
includes traditional and contemporary Irish folk tunes,
rebel songs, ballads, pub songs, and Celtic songs, all
sung while accompanying himself on acoustic guitar.
We will be serving green punch and delicious treats
during the show. Transportation can be
provided, just let us know when you sign up!
This program is FREE!!
Please call us at 508-896-2737 to reserve your seat
soon! We hope you’ll join us!
Thank You to our SHINE Representatives!
Brenda Locke, Debra Johnson and Mary Rancourt
The annual Medicare Open Enrollment, which was from
October 15th through December 7th of 2018, is always a
very busy time here at our senior center.
Our Brewster COA SHINE representatives devoted
many hours of their time to help over 273 clients save
over $118,426!
Thank you for your efforts!
First Day of Spring Patio Party! (weather permitting)
Wednesday, March 20 8:30am - 3:30pm Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Let’s celebrate the 1st day of Spring by getting outside and enjoying our new patio! Coffee and donuts will be
served in the morning, and punch and cookies will be served in the afternoon. No need to sign up. Just stop by!
Page 2 March 2019 Brewster, MA
Exercise your Options!
The Brewster Council on Aging offers
these Exercise and Wellness classes to
help you have a healthy, active and
enjoyable life! All classes are at the
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street, un-
less otherwise noted. Check us out!
Keep Movin’
9:45 - 10:45 am
Mondays and Fridays
This program is primarily strength-
training for seniors. The classes are
friendly, and a fun way to relieve
arthritis symptoms while learning
important strengthening exercises.
Classes help to build strength,
coordination and balance each week by
using hand and leg weights, balls and
bands. The cost is $50 for the 10-weeks
(20 classes per session). To sign up,
stop in any Monday or Friday and speak
to the instructor, Linda Fraser. You
may observe the class, but may not
participate unless signed up by the
instructor.
Gentle Flow Yoga Class
2:30 - 3:45pm Mondays
Eddy School Recreation Room
2298 Main Street
In collaboration with the Brewster
Recreation Dept., we are offering a Gen-
tle Flow Yoga Class. Join this
Hatha-based yoga class suitable for all
levels; classes will be geared to
attendees. Variety from week to week
and season to season ensures a
sustainable practice – one that nourishes
all aspects of being: mental, emotional
and spiritual, as well as physical.
Come learn “tools you can use” in daily
life to calm and energize the mind while
strengthening and lengthening the body
and renewing the spirit.
Our instructor, Karen Corcoran, is
certified in Hatha, Kundalini and Yin
and has been teaching on Cape Cod for
over 2 years. This is an ongoing class
and the Recreation Department will sell
a 5-class card at $10/class.
Drop-in rate is $12.00 per class.
Please bring a mat. Call the Recreation
Department at 508-896-9430 to sign up!
Yoga
9:00 - 10:30 am Tuesdays
This class uses breathing techniques as a
foundation for exploring gentle and safe
stretching. It is appropriate for all
fitness levels, and helps with relaxation
and focus.
$10.00 per class. Please bring a mat.
No need to sign up in advance.
Feel free to check out a class to see if
it’s right for you! Our long-time
instructor is Marilou Raposa.
Line Dancing - Beginner (I)
8:oo - 8:45 am Wednesdays
A fun, new way to get light exercise and
meet new friends. This is NOT your
usual Country-Western line dance class.
We dance to all styles of music!
No dancing experience required!
Prerequisites: Good balance, good
spatial orientation and ability to
memorize 32-count patterns.
$4.00 per class when paid monthly,
$6.00 per class for drop-ins.
Our instructor, Karen Shackleford,
comes to us from ‘Cape Sands
Ballroom’. Meet new friends and dance
your cares away!
Line Dancing -
Beyond the Basics (II)
8:45 - 9:30am Wednesdays
Carry your dance experience forward!
This intermediate class is for those with
knowledge of jazz squares, grapevines,
Charlestons, diagonal travel, box steps,
and mambo steps.
Prerequisite: Good balance, good
spatial orientation and ability to
memorize 32-count patterns.
$4.00 per class when paid monthly,
$6.00 per class for drop-ins.
Discount offered for those enrolled in
both classes - $3.50 per class!
Come learn fun, mini dance routines to
your favorite pop, rock and Latin music!
Karen Shackleford from ‘Cape Sands
Ballroom’ will be your instructor.
Qi Gong
9:00 - 9:45 am Thursdays
Qi Gong is an integration of physical
postures, breathing techniques and
focused intentions. The gentle,
rhythmic movements help to reduce
stress, build stamina, increase vitality
and enhance the immune system.
Qi Gong’s greatest appeal is that
everyone can benefit! The instructor
also incorporates some elements of
Tai Chi into each session. $2.00 per
class or $10.00 per 5-week session.
Our instructor is Ray DiPietro.
You’re welcome to come check it out!
Meditation
10:00 - 11:00am Thursdays
Is your world moving too fast? Do you
sometimes wish you could stop, take a
deep breath and stay still for a short
period of time? This meditation class
focuses on building internal awareness
with an orientation toward the heart and
breath. Our instructor, Carol Marcy,
will also talk about the many benefits of
meditation, and will use a guided
meditation format. Cost is $2.00 per
class and drop-ins are welcome!
Come and relax!
Funky Fitness
Wednesdays:
March 6 to May 29 2:30pm
Eddy School Recreation Room
2298 Main Street
This is an advanced 12-session workout
program to address 4 major categories
of fitness: endurance, strength, balance
and flexibility. Music is the backdrop
and inspiration for all exercises in each
60-minute class. Frank Callahan will be
your instructor.
The class will begin on Wednesday,
March 6th and go through Wednesday,
May 29th at the Eddy School
Recreation Room. There will be no
class on Wednesday, April 17th due to
school vacation week.
The fee will be $60 for the 12 sessions,
making it $5.00 per class. You won’t
believe how much fun you will have
while exercising!
To register, please call the Brewster
COA at 508-896-2737.
Page 3 March 2019
W.O.W. (Wonderful Older Women)
Tuesdays: 9:30am - 11:00am
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Are you sitting at home talking to yourself? Would you
enjoy talking with others and feeling good about your
day? Do you like to discuss books, movies, local events
and issues?
Then WOW would love to welcome you into our weekly
discussion group. Join us whenever you can at the
COA! You’ll find us to be a very friendly group with a
positive attitude.
If you have any questions, please call the COA at
508-896-2737.
Brewster, MA
Computer Help
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Thursdays: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Please note: There will be no Computer Help
sessions available until April.
Check the April ‘Bayside Chatter’ for the complete
schedule!
Brewster Mens’ Coffee Club
Thursdays, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
The Brewster Mens’ Coffee Club will be meeting on
the following Thursday afternoons in March:
7, 14, 21, 28
Come join us for a hot cup of coffee and some lively
conversation on these cold, winter days. We’re always
looking for new members. We’re also looking for Guest
Speakers, so if you’ve got a topic of interest that you’d
like to present, just let us know!
Computer Users Group
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Thursdays: 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Please note: There will be no Computer Help
sessions available until April.
Check the April ‘Bayside Chatter’ for the complete
schedule!
Mobile Dental Hygiene Service
Wednesday, March 27
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Mobile Dental Hygiene Services offers friendly,
convenient, and affordable preventative oral health
care at the Brewster Council on Aging!
The following services are FREE to eligible individuals
with Medicaid/MassHealth: cleanings, screenings,
oral cancer exams, fluoride treatments, denture care,
education, referrals.
No dental insurance? They offer reduced private-pay
options such as: cleaning - $80, denture care - $25
and an exam for $30. The price of a cleaning includes
an exam and denture care. They will also see children
if there are any visiting grandchildren!
This service will be held on the 4th Wednesday of every
month.
Please contact Mobile Dental Hygiene Services if you
have any questions or you would like to make an
appointment.
Their telephone number is 508-827-6725 or check
them out at: smiles@mobiledentalhygiene.com
Hearing Screenings
8:30am – 10:30am
Thursday, March 21
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Advanced Audiology Associates offers FREE screenings
here at the Brewster Council on Aging.
These screenings are by appointment only and last
around 15 minutes. They will include hearing
screenings, ear inspections and hearing aid checks.
Please call the COA at 508-896-2737 to set an
appointment for this valuable service.
Income Tax Preparation
Brewster Town Hall, 2198 Main Street
Income Tax season is here! Make it easy on yourself and call the Brewster COA soon at
508-896-2737 to schedule an appointment with a knowledgeable tax representative from
AARP. Appointments are available on Wednesdays until April 10th, on a first-come,
first-served basis. The representatives will make the job of filing your taxes much easier!
***Although the program is free, donations to the Brewster COA are appreciated!
Please note: This service is for basic, uncomplicated tax filing ONLY! (Form 1040 or
Form 1040-EZ)
March Program Notes
Check out the exciting and informative
programs and events we’ve got planned for
you this month! All programs take place at
the Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street,
unless otherwise noted.
Mardi Gras is on Tuesday, March 5th
Be sure to stop in at the COA to pick up some beads
and a treat!
Food to Encourage
2nd & 4th Thursdays 9:45am - 11:45am
March 14 and March 28
Lower Cape Outreach Council in partnership with the
Barnstable County Public Health Nurses and the
Brewster COA are looking to explore the impact of
Nutrition & Healthy eating on Diabetes and
Hypertension.
This program is open to everyone. Health monitoring
by a nurse, involving Blood Pressure and Glucose
checks, is available. Each participant will receive a bag
of fresh fruits/veggies every other week, along with free
recipes! Just stop by at any point during the time
period listed above!
Crafts with Megan
Thursday, March 21 10:30am - 12:30pm
Free! You’ll be creating an easy, fun new craft each
month. All supplies are included. Meet new friends
and indulge your creative side while our instructor,
Megan, offers guidance in all projects.
Please contact the COA by Friday, March 15 to
let us know you are interested: 508-896-2737
The Silvering Screen Film Series
“Calendar Girls”
Tuesday, March 26 2:00pm
Wingate Residence at Brewster Place
855 Harwich Road
We will be showing a series of movies whose producers
have used older actors to make a statement about the
second half of life.
Our 1st presentation will be “Calendar Girls”.
This movie is about a group of mid-life women who
develop a nude calendar to raise money.
Beverages and refreshments will be served!
Please call the COA to reserve your seat at
508-896-2737.
The Savvy Caregiver Educational Program
Thursdays: March 7 - April 10
10:00am - 11:30am
Brewster Ladies Library, 1822 Main Street
The Savvy Caregiver 6-session course covers:
the Pathology of dementia diseases, Strategies for
caregiver self-care, Dementia stages, Developing
contented involvement for someone with
dementia, How to recognize options to optimize
decision making, and Making the most of family
resources.
This FREE program is recommended for active family
caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s or other
dementia-related diseases.
Free respite-care is available during class
hours.
This program is being offered by the Alzheimer’s Family
Support Center, in conjunction with the Brewster COA.
For more information, or to register, please
contact Judi Devaney at 508-896-5170, or email:
support@capecodalz.org
Citizens Police Academy
Tuesdays: March 12 through May 14
(10 weeks) 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Brewster Police Department,
631 Harwich Rd.
The Brewster Police Department announces its
upcoming Citizens Police Academy, beginning on
Tuesday, March 12. This is your opportunity to get an
insider’s look at the functions of the Department and its
officers. The class is FREE and open to the public.
You will learn a great deal and meet those who serve
our community.
To sign up, applications are available at the Brewster
COA and the Police Department.
If you have any questions, please contact
Lt. George Bausch at the Brewster Police
Department: 508-896-7011
Mediterranean Pathway to Wellness
A Fun & Informative Nutrition Presentation
Friday, April 5 1:30pm – 2:45pm
Learn about the delicious components and benefits of
the Mediterranean diet. See why those following the
diet have less heart disease and lower death rates than
those following a typical American diet. Join registered
dietitian Tricia Silverman as she shares easy ways to
incorporate healthful Mediterranean foods into your
own diet. Tricia will lead a fun olive oil tasting.
Please RSVP to the Brewster Senior Center at
508-896-2737 to reserve your seat.
Page 4 March 2019 Brewster, MA
Page 5 March 2019
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
1
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm A Matter of
Balance - Info Session
4
2:30pm Gentle Flow
Yoga/Eddy School
5 Mardi Gras Day
9:00am Yoga
9:00am Massage with
Sandra
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
6
8:00am Line Dancing I
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Massage with
Sandra
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
2:30pm Funky Fitness/
Eddy School
7
9:00am Qi Gong
10:00am Meditation
2:00pm BMCC
8
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm A Matter of
Balance
11
9:00am Pedicare
1:00pm
St. Patrick’s Day
Celebration!
2:30pm Gentle Flow
Yoga/Eddy School
12
9:00am Yoga
9:00am Massage with
Sandra
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
13
8:00am Line Dancing I
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Massage with
Sandra
10:30am BINGO
11:00am Mobile Pantry
(Frederick Ct.)
11:30am Sight Loss/BLL
1:00pm Quilters
2:30pm Funky Fitness/
Eddy School
14
9:00am Qi Gong
9:45am Food to
Encourage
10:00am Meditation
2:00pm BMCC
15
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
11:00am
Rep. Tim Whelan
1:00pm A Matter of
Balance
18
9:45am Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Gentle Flow
Yoga/Eddy School
19
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
20
First Day of Spring
Patio Party at the COA!
8:00am Line Dancing I
8:45am Line Dancing II
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
2:30pm Funky Fitness/
Eddy School
21
8:00am Pet Grooming
8:30am Hearing
Screenings
9:00am Qi Gong
10:00am Meditation
10:30am Crafts with
Megan
1:00pm Financial
Planning
2:00pm BMCC
22
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm A Matter of
Balance
25
9:45am Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Gentle Flow
Yoga/Eddy School
26
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
10:00am
BP/GlucoseTesting/BLL
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
27
8:00am Line Dancing I
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Mobile Dental
Hygiene Service
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
2:30pm Funky Fitness/
Eddy School
28
9:00am Qi Gong
9:45am Food to
Encourage
10:00am Meditation
2:00pm BMCC
29
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm A Matter of
Balance
Page 6 Senior Happenings
Disclaimer
The Brewster Senior Center offers many legal, financial, recreational, medical screening
or other services and/or activities by volunteer or nominal-cost
practitioners. Seniors participating in these services do so with the understanding that the
Brewster Council on Aging, The Brewster Senior Center, the Town of
Brewster, Friends of Brewster Elders (aka F.O.B.E.) or its employees or agents DO NOT
ASSUME ANY LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ADVICE OR SERVICES
RENDERED BY SUCH VOLUNTEER OR NOMINAL COST PRACTITIONER.
Any act, advice, or service by outside providers at the Council on Aging SHOULD NOT BE
PRESUMED TO BE ENDORSED OR SPONSORED BY THE BCOA.
‘Brewster Bayside Chatter’ Online:
The ‘Brewster Bayside Chatter’ is available online each month and can be found on our
website at: www.brewster-ma.gov. Search under ‘Departments’ and select ‘Council on
Aging’. Scroll down to where it reads: ‘our newsletters are available online’ and click on
the link! Happy Reading!
March 2019 Page 7
Mobile Pantry - “Healthy Food to Go”
We are pleased to bring you this program in cooperation with The Family Pantry of
Cape Cod.
Participants select their food in advance using the provided shopping list, which
includes standard non-perishable foods, along with special non-perishable foods,
fresh produce, bread products, dairy and meats.
Your shopping order is pre-bagged at the Family Pantry and kept in a refrigerated
truck until you pick it up. This takes place on the 2nd Wednesday of each month,
from 11:00am to 12:00pm at Frederick Court, across from the Brewster COA.
Our next date is Wednesday, March 13.
Participants must register and be income-qualified. For more information, please
call Debra or Brenda at our Outreach Office at (508) 896-2737.
Brewster, MA
Fuel Assistance
Need some help with your winter heating bills? You may be eligible for fuel
assistance. Please contact the Outreach Department at the Brewster COA at
508-896-2737.
Fuel Assistance recipients automatically receive a substantially discounted electric
rate, so call now for more information.
Come Join Us for Lunch!
Simply call Maria in our Brewster COA Nutrition Center at
508-896-5070 by 11:00am the day before and she
will make sure your delicious, hot meal will be ready for
you when you come the following day.
The monthly menu is always available at the COA.
Just ask us for one!
Join us at 10:30am on Wednesdays and Fridays to play BINGO before lunch.
Or, join us for some lively piano music on Thursdays, provided by our wonderful
volunteer pianist! Requested meal donation is $3.00. Transportation can be
arranged. This program is sponsored by Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands.
You might enjoy the new friendships that you can make at the Senior Center!
Advertising
Page 8 March 2019
BAYSIDE
WEEKLY/MONTHLY PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES:
ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP & ACTIVITY
GROUP for PEOPLE WITH COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT:
1st & 3rd Tues. of each month ~ 1:00 - 2:30pm at Maplewood of
Brewster, 820 Harwich Road (Route 124). The Caregivers support
group and the Dementia support group run simultaneously. Drop-ins
welcome. Dr. Molly Perdue, facilitator. Call (508) 896-5170
BANKING ASSISTANCE: For help balancing seniors’ checkbooks. By
appointment only. Please call the COA at (508) 896-2737 to reserve.
BINGO: Wednesday and Friday ~ 10:30 - 11:30am.
BLOOD PRESSURE & GLUCOSE TESTING/HEALTH COUNSELING:
4th Tuesday of the month at the Brewster Ladies Library, lower level.
10:00am – 2:00pm - On a drop-in basis. Provided by VNA of Cape Cod.
BREWSTER MEN’S COFFEE CLUB (BMCC): Thursdays ~ 2:00pm.
BRIDGE (men’s and women’s groups): Tuesdays ~ 1:00pm.
COMPUTER HELP: Thursdays ~ 9:00am – 12:00pm
By appointment only. 1-hour sessions are hands-on, one-on-one,
and participants choose their own pace and area of interest.
Call (508) 896-2737 PLEASE NOTE - No Computer Help until April
COMPUTER USERS GROUP: Thursdays ~ 1:00pm - 2:30pm
The first part of the meeting is usually for questions and answers, followed
by instructions on topics solicited from program participants. Skill level
Is from beginner to intermediate. Just drop in!
PLEASE NOTE - No Computer Users Group until April
DENTAL HYGIENE SERVICE: 4th Wednesday ~ 9:00am
Mobile Dental Hygiene Service offers friendly, convenient and affordable
preventative oral health care at the COA! To make an appointment,
please call Mobile Dental Hygiene Svc. at (508) 827-6725 or visit their
website at smiles@mobiledentalhygiene.com
PLEASE NOTE: This month’s date is March 27
FINANCIAL PLANNING: 3rd Thursday ~ 1:00pm.
By appointment only. A knowledgeable volunteer answers questions
and provides information concerning Long Term Care and Financial
Planning. Call (508) 896-2737
GENTLE FLOW YOGA Mondays ~ 2:30 - 3:45pm Eddy School,
2298 Main Street. Hatha-based yoga suitable for all levels. 5 classes for
$10.00. Drop-ins $12.00. Call Brewster Rec. Dept: 508-896-9430
HEARING SCREENINGS: 3rd Thursday ~ 8:30am By appointment
only. FREE. Includes ear inspections and hearing-aid checks if needed.
Appointments are 15 minutes each. Call (508) 896-2737.
KEEP MOVIN’!: Mondays and Fridays ~ 9:45 - 10:45 am. 10-week
session/20 classes, for the cost of $50.00. Strength training for seniors.
Classes help to relieve arthritis symptoms using adjustable weights and
stretch bands. PLEASE NOTE: If you are interested, please stop by
the class and speak with the instructor.
LEGAL HELP: 10:00am on the 4th Tuesday of even months with Atty.
Katie Wibby. Atty. Adam Dupuy still offers legal advice, but does not have
scheduled dates at the COA. 1/2-hour appointments. By appointment
only: (508) 896-2737 The attorney will answer your legal questions.
Free for initial appointment.
LINE DANCING (I): Wednesdays ~ 8:00am - 8:45am No dance
experience required. $4.00/class when paid monthly, or $6.00/class for
drop ins. Cash or checks payable to “Cape Sands Ballroom”.
No need to call first; just come and join us!
LINE DANCING (II): Wednesdays ~ 8:45am - 9:30am
Some dance experience required (see class description on page 2).
Fees same as LINE DANCING I.
MASSAGE with Sandra: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Massages last 30 minutes and are offered for $15.00. By appointment
only. Call (508) 896-2737
CHATTER
WEEKLY/MONTHLY PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES:
MEALS ON WHEELS: Provided to each homebound elder who is unable
to prepare nutritionally balanced meals. Call Brewster Nutrition at
508-896-5070.
MEDITATION: Thursdays ~ 10:00am - 11:00am
Class focused on building internal awareness with an orientation toward
the heart and breath. Guided meditation format used. $2.00 per session.
Drop-ins welcome! Come and relax!
OLD FASHIONED QUILTING BEE: Wednesdays ~ 1:00pm.
Fellow quilters bring in their quilting projects and enjoy the camaraderie of
other quilters. Come join in with the ‘Brewster Basters’!
OUTREACH ASSISTANCE: The Outreach Workers will answer any
questions you have about resources and programs you may be entitled to,
assist with assessing needs, file-of-life, fuel assistance applications, etc.
Please call 508-896-2737 to make an appointment.
PEDICARE: 2nd Monday of the month ~ 9:00am - 2:30pm
(Diabetics must see a MD/Podiatrist). ½ hr. appointments - $29.00
Home Visit - $50.00 Please call (508) 896-2737 for appointment.
PET GROOMING: Buttons & Bows ~ 3rd Thursday of the month ~
8:00am - 8:30am Nail clipping for animals will take place in a mobile van
at the back of the COA parking lot. First-come, first-served. The charge is
$3.00 (normally $10.00). Stop by!
PICKLEBALL: Please call the Brewster Rec. Dept. at 508-896-9430
POKER: On-hold until late Spring 2019
QI GONG: Thursdays ~ 9:00am - 9:45am. $10.00 for 5 sessions.
Chinese method for enhancing the immune system; utilizing posture and
breathing exercises, along with focused intentions. Gentle and calming.
REP. TIM WHELAN: 3rd Friday of the month ~ 11:00am - 12:00 pm
Offered on a drop-in, first-come-first served basis.
SENIOR DINING: Hot lunches are provided Monday through Friday
at the COA. Suggested donation is $3.00 per meal. 24-hour notice
required. Please call 508-896-5070 no later than 11:00am the day
before. Come at 10:30am on Wednesdays and Fridays to play BINGO
before lunch! Live piano music on Thursdays at 11:30am.
SENIOR STRIDERS: Monday - Friday (during school session)
6:30am - 7:15am and 3:00pm - 5:00pm. Visit the Brewster Rec. Office at
Eddy Elementary School to register! Program is held at Stony Brook Elem.
SHINE: Serving the Health Information Needs of Everyone
Scheduled appointments on Tuesday afternoons, or call Brenda for an
appointment on other days. Highly-trained volunteer counselors help
seniors and Medicare beneficiaries understand their rights and benefits.
Please contact the COA for an appointment at: 508-896-2737.
Appointments are FREE!
SIGHT LOSS GROUP: September - June on the 2nd Wednesday of
each month at the Brewster Ladies Library ~ 11:30am -1:00pm
Please call Sight Loss at 508-394-3904 for more information.
SWIMMING: Brewster Green Pool ~ Fridays: 10:00am - 12:00pm.
This is ONLY available for Brewster’s senior (60+) residents. You
ALSO need to have your Brewster COA Swipe Card for admittance.
A donation of $1.00 per swim is recommended and this is done by an
Honor system. Stop by the COA on a monthly or quarterly basis to support
this activity!
TENNIS: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays ~ 9:00am – 11:00am
Please call the Brewster Recreation Department at
(508) 896-9430 for more information.
W.O.W.: (Wonderful Older Women): Tuesdays ~ 9:30am - 11:00am
This friendly group of women review current events, talk about movies &
books, give each other support & enjoy conversation. Stop by!
YOGA: Tuesday mornings from 9:00am - 10:30am.
$10 per class. Class uses breathing techniques as a foundation for
exploring gentle & safe stretching. Drop-ins welcome!
Page 9 March 2019
A Message from Charles Altieri, RN
Public Health Wellness Nurse, VNA of Cape Cod
Home visits will occur on Mondays.
Page 10 March 2019 Brewster, MA
Carbon Monoxide
New cars are now coming with keyless ignition; this is carrying a new unrecognized risk. You’re more
likely to leave the car running once parked in the garage, which means a risk of carbon monoxide
poisoning.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that’s produced from cars, small engines,
stoves, fireplaces, furnaces, or any fuel burning appliance. Exposure is usually low, for example when
the running car is in open air, and when your furnace is operating properly. But with enough build-up
in an enclosed space the gas can become deadly quickly.
Signs of poisoning from exposure to low levels include:
● Headache, Fatigue, Shortness of Breath, Dizziness, Nausea.
Higher or prolonged exposure warning signs become more severe including:
● Confusion, Vomiting, Loss of coordination, Loss of consciousness, Death.
If you suspect exposure, seek fresh air immediately. Once outside use your cell phone or go to
a neighbor’s house and call emergency help; 911 will connect you to your local firehouse.
Do not go back into the house, as you may pass out.
Reducing your risk of Carbon Monoxide exposure includes:
● Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector and place it close enough to wake you up.
Change the batteries regularly.
● Have your heating system, water heater, and any gas, oil, or coal appliance serviced annually.
● Make sure all gas appliances are properly vented.
● Don’t use a gas range to heat your house.
● If you have a wood-burning fireplace, open the vent before lighting, and leave the vent opened
until all the ashes have cooled. Have the chimney cleaned annually.
● Don’t leave your car running inside an attached garage, even if you leave the garage door
open.
● Don’t use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove or any other gas or charcoal burning device in
your house or garage.
● Have a carbon monoxide alarm for all recreational vehicles, including motor homes.
● Know all your warning signs for leaving your keyless ignition - such as beeps or dashboard
displays.
Mayo Clinic, January 2019
BE WELL! LIVE STRONG! LIVE LONG!
Charlie Altieri, RN, Public Health Nurse
Looking for Medical Equipment?
If you are currently looking for Medical Equipment, either for yourself or for someone you know,
please contact the COA to find out if we have anything that you could use. We often receive donations
of crutches, walkers, canes, shower/tub benches, commodes and wheelchairs that we lend out, free of
charge, for indefinite periods of time.
Simply give us a call at 508-896-2737. We may just have what you’re looking for!
March 2019 Page 11
Brewster, MA
Sightings from the Poop Deck
"Not I, nor anyone else can travel that road for you. You must travel it by yourself. It is not far. It is
within reach. Perhaps you have been on it since you were born, and did not know. Perhaps it is
everywhere - on water and land."
Walt Whitman (Leaves of Grass)
It’s January 4, 2019 and I am a very humbled beneficiary enjoying a spectacular view looking out over
the Pacific Ocean about 200 yards away from the balcony of my daughter Debbie and son -in-law Nick’s
beach house in Chumico, Coclé Province, Panama. I’ll be down on the beach this evening as the sun
goes down sipping my glass of Cabernet and watching the gentle Pacific lapping at the shoreline. It’s
amazing how different and mild the Pacific is when compared with the angry Atlantic which we are so
used to.
For some strange reason I am hung up today on the word “Journey.” Perhaps it may have something
to do with recently watching the legendary John Wooden giving a TED Talk (Technology,
Entertainment, Design). He mentioned “journey” a couple times, specifically referring to his team
practices, often thought of as the journey and the games the destination. For you non basketball fans,
John Wooden coached UCLA basketball from 1948 until 1975 winning ten NCAA national
championships, a record which may never be reached again.
John Wooden quotes Cervantes in his talk, specifically, “the journey is better than the end,” and it got
me to digging a little. Ralph Waldo Emerson is often quoted, “It’s not the destination it’s the journey” so
if you gave it some thought it is probably true in many cases. How many times has our destination been
a disappointment and our journey the highpoint? To digress a little and as an aside to teachers both
active and retired who may be reading this, may I suggest that you look up this John Wooden TED Talk
on YouTube which will undoubtedly make you extremely proud of your profession.
Moving on with the word “Journey,” in one of the dark recesses of my brain (actually I only have one
dark recess, the rest is just empty space) I was reminded of a movie I saw about ten years ago, namely,
The Bucket List. If you saw it too you will remember that Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman become
good friends and travel (Journey throughout) the world together. Some of the quotes from the movie are
hilarious and some very philosophical. Carter Chambers (Freeman) shares with Edward Cole
(Nicholson) the two questions asked of the dead by the gods at the entrance to heaven: “Have you found
joy in your life? Has your life brought joy to others?” I’m going to test that question right now.
“Hey Joanie Carfora, has my life brought joy to you?” She’s standing there looking at me
cross-eyed. I’ll take that as a yes!
One last quote from the Bucket List only because it refers to older (mature) people like myself and I find
it to be rather useful. Edward Cole is giving some sage advice to his aide Thomas whose name is really
Michael, but Edward thinks that the name Michael is too biblical so he renames him Thomas:
“Three things to remember when you grow older. Never pass up a bathroom, never waste a...bleep
(censored), and never trust a fart.”
No argument there!
Peter R. Scheffer - (“Life is Good!”) - Everyday is a journey!!
P.S. Happy Saint Patrick’s Day and also equally important, Buon San Giuseppe!!
poop deck, n., a deck above a ship’s main afterdeck
BHT - BOSTON HOSPITAL TRANSPORTATION
Enjoy comfortable and safe transportation from Cape
Cod DIRECT to Boston hospitals on a
wheelchair -accessible van.
MONDAY thru FRIDAY SCHEDULE
7:30a.m. Orleans (Shaw’s)
7:45a.m. Harwich (Route 124 Commuter Lot)
8:00a.m. Barnstable (Route 132 Commuter Lot)
8:15a.m. Sagamore (Rotary Commuter Lot)
RESERVATIONS are a MUST!!!
(Reserve no later than 11a.m. the day before)
$30.00 Round Trip/$15.00 One-way
Cash or Checks (Payable to CCRTA) accepted
For reservations call 1-800-352-7155
Monday – Friday: 8:00a.m. – 5:00p.m.
Schedule your medical appointments between
10am & 2pm. The van will leave Boston by 3pm.
Please visit the website for more information:
www.capecodrta.org
TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
COA VAN – Scheduled trips include:
Monday – Friday to nutrition site and home after lunch: FREE!!
Grocery Shopping in Orleans: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11am - 1pm.
Post office, banking & pharmacy trips: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
The suggested donation is $2.00 for these errands.
Please contact the COA at (508) 896-2737 to schedule your ride.
MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS – Volunteer drivers are available for transport to
medical appointments in their personal cars. Please call the COA at
508-896-2737 as soon as you make an appointment or at least four business
days (Monday thru Friday) in advance so that we can find a volunteer to
provide your ride. Please notify the COA if you can’t keep your appointment so
we can notify our drivers. Donations are accepted for this service.
WHEELCHAIR-ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL VAN – Transportation to medical
appointments is provided on a volunteer basis, Monday through Friday.
A one-week advanced reservation is required. Donations are accepted for
this service. Call the COA for more information at (508) 896-2737.
Page 12 March 2019 Brewster, MA Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID Permit #25 Orleans, MA 02653 DART - DIAL-A-RIDE TRANSPORTATION Service:
CCRTA provides a daily general public demand response service that is wheelchair-accessible, door-to-door, and ride-by-appointment. This service is
available to all Cape Cod residents and is available Monday through Saturday in all towns, with limited Sunday service. The DART does not run on
holidays. For available times in Brewster please call Customer Service toll-free at (800) 352-7155, Monday-Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm. OR CURRENT RESIDENT FRIENDS OF BREWSTER ELDERS 1673 MAIN STREET BREWSTER, MA 02631 This agency and its programs are funded (in whole or in part) by the MA
Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Federal Administration for Community
Living by a contract from Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands.