HomeMy Public PortalAboutAugust 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 Marilyn Dearborn, FOBE President
Sharon Tennstedt, COA Board Co-Chair
August 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.
“New to Medicare” Seminar
Thursday, August 8 6:00 pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Are you turning 65 soon?
Come and get the straight story about your
Medicare options from certified SHINE (Serving the Health
Insurance Needs of Everyone) counselors.
Call the COA today at 508-896-2737 to reserve a seat!
Light refreshments will be served.
Put on your Walking Shoes
Are you interested in walking in different
areas of Brewster? Would you like to meet other walkers?
See page 7 of this newsletter for more information about a
new walking group beginning next month!
Friends of Brewster Elders Changes
When you want something done you always ask a busy
person. Alice Stelzer is one of those people! We would
like to thank her for her service to the Friends of Brewster
Elders as President from August 2017 through June 2019.
Alice has served on the Friends of Brewster Elders board
since 2014 and will continue in that capacity.
Her replacement is former President of FOBE, Marilyn
Dearborn who took over as of June. Marilyn was also the
part-time Program Coordinator at the Brewster COA for
ten years. It’s nice to have someone who is familiar with
the Brewster seniors.
Many thanks to Alice and welcome back Marilyn!
Seeking Tax-Aide Volunteer Counselors
Do you enjoy people? Do you think numbers can be fun?
If YES, then we’re looking to share the fun with you.
Since 1968, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Volunteers have been
helping low and moderate income taxpayers complete their
Federal and State income tax returns free-of-charge.
New volunteers participate in a training program each fall.
Over a 3-week period, (2x a week for 3 weeks), they are trained
in the process of completing tax returns. Counselors, upon
passing the required test, are assigned to various centers across
the Cape and Islands. Preference is given to centers near their
homes. From February through April 15th, people are met with
and needed help is given. Schedules are flexible and allow for
vacation time. For more information, contact Pat Zeiss,
Volunteer Coordinator at patzeiss@juno.com or call Pat at
508-255-2292.
Identifying & Avoiding Financial Scams
Thursday, August 8 1:00pm
It is likely you know someone who has been a victim of
a financial scam. Older adults tend to be targets of such
scams.
Join us on Thursday, August 8th as Taryn Wilson,
Director of Fraud Prevention at Cape Cod 5 discusses
financial scams, how to best protect yourself as an older
adult and what to do if you believe you have been a
victim of such a scam. Come to this presentation to
become more knowledgeable about this important topic.
Please contact the COA at 508-896-2737 to sign up.
Note: This presentation is being held as part of our
regular Thursday Computer Users Group meeting.
Floor Refinishing at the Brewster COA:
Monday, July 29 through Friday, August 2
The hardwood floor in our 1st floor large room, front foyer
and front Outreach office will be undergoing refinishing
from Monday, July 29 through Friday, August 2. All
activities on the 1st floor will be cancelled for this
week. There will be no elevator access or front
staircase access during this time.
2nd floor activities will go on as scheduled, but your ONLY
access will be via the back staircase. We apologize for the
inconvenience.
Page 2 August 2019 Brewster, MA
W.O.W. (Wonderful Older Women)
Tuesdays: 9:30 - 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.
This popular program serves all eligible Brewster seniors, providing a few full bags
of groceries and paper products each month. Pre-order from a wide selection of
food items and your order will be ready for pick-up!
The program 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, August 14.
Please call our Brewster COA Outreach Office to enroll at 508-896-2737.
Computer Help
Wednesdays & Thursdays: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Do you need help using your computer?
We have one-on-one sessions available to help you feel
more confident in your computer skills. Sessions are
one hour and FREE!
Our knowledgeable and dedicated volunteer instructors
are Del Borah on Wednesday mornings, and Pete
Scheffer on Thursday mornings.
For all appointments, please contact the COA at
508-896-2737.
Brewster Men’s Coffee Club
Thursdays, 2:00 - 4:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
The Brewster Men’s Coffee Club will be meeting on
Thursday afternoons during August, except for
Thursday, August 1 when the floor at the COA
will be undergoing renovation (no BMCC that
day). Why not join us for a cup of coffee and
some lively conversation? 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
Thursdays: 1:00 - 2:30pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
August dates: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Topics are solicited from program attendees at each
meeting and discussed at subsequent meetings, all
within a friendly atmosphere. Skill level is from
beginner to intermediate. There’s no need to sign up
ahead of time. Just a desire to learn something new!
Please join us for a special presentation:
On Thursday, August 8th, from 1:00 - 3:00pm, come
listen to a presentation by Taryn Wilson, Director of
Fraud Prevention at Cape Cod 5 entitled “Identifying
and Avoiding Financial Scams” as part of our
regular Computer Users Group meeting (see page 1 of
this newsletter for the full description). This program
promises to be packed with information to help
everyone become more aware of the scams that are out
there, as well as ways to prevent yourself from
becoming a victim.
Please give the COA a call at 508-896-2737 so we can
save you a seat for this informative program!
Hearing Screenings
Thursday, August 15 8:30 – 10:30am
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
approximately 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.
Page 3 August 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, unless
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.
Yoga
8:30 - 10:00 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.
Fourth Wall Line Dancing
8:00 - 8:45am Wednesdays
through August 28th
This course is designed for students
with some line dance experience who
are accustomed to picking up new
material with ease and are interested in
learning technique. The “Fourth Wall”
refers to the conceptual barrier
between a performer and an audience.
In this class we’ll explore how to push
past the Fourth Wall and find a
connection to an audience.
Using only one-wall dances, we’ll start
with foot placements and then embellish
each dance with technique such as arm
motions, spotting, Latin action and
more. Whether your goal is to take your
line dancing to the next level or perform
with a team, this course will help you
learn how to share the positive energy
dance brings to your life!
$4.00 per class when paid by the month.
Karen Shackleford from ‘Cape Sands
Ballroom’ will be your instructor.
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
Fourth Wall Line Dancing and Line
Dance II - $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!
Note: For new participants, please call
the COA to see where class is meeting
this month - it sometimes meets at
Drummer Boy Park when the weather
is nice.
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!
Food to Encourage:
2nd & 4th Mondays:
August 12 and 26
9:30 - 11:30am
Please note:
The August 12 session will be
meeting at the Brewster Town
Hall, 2198 Main Street,
in Meeting Room A
(lower level).
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 and
healthy eating on diabetes and
hypertension.
This program is open to everyone.
Health monitoring by a nurse,
involving blood pressure and glu-
cose checks, is available. Each
participant will receive a bag of fresh
fruits/veggies every other week,
along with free recipes!
No need to sign up. Please bring
your own bag and stop by at any
point during the time period
listed above!
August 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.
Crafts with Megan
Thursday, August 15 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, August 9 to let us
know you are interested: 508-896-2737
Ice Cream Fridays!
1:00 - 3:00pm through August 30
Join us each Friday throughout the summer for ice cream
treats on our new patio. Admire the view, chat with a staff
member and enjoy the afternoon. If the weather is
inclement, we’ll simply head indoors! No need to call ahead.
Just stop by. We’d love to see you!
Lobster Roll Luncheon and Entertainment at
the COA!
Monday, August 12 10:30am - 12:30pm
Featuring Paul Ashley, singer and musician
$10.00 per person
Come join us for our first-ever Lobster Roll and
Entertainment luncheon at the Brewster COA. Enjoy musical
entertainment with Paul Ashley, a highly-skilled guitarist and
entertainer. Paul has toured all throughout the United States
and Canada. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lobster roll
luncheon featuring lobster supplied by JT’s Seafood
Restaurant! Due to anticipated high demand, pre-payment is
required by Monday, August 5th. There is a limit of 50
tickets, which will only be sold to Brewster Seniors. As of
this newsletter printing, we still have a few seats left. Please
stop by the COA office to purchase your ticket soon. Come
enjoy a fun day at the COA!
Page 4 August 2019 Brewster, MA
Programs Changed or Ended for Summer:
● No Massages with Sandra until September.
● No Sight Loss meetings until September.
● No Senior Swim program at Brewster Green until fall.
● No Senior Striders program until fall.
● Tuesday Yoga is 8:30am to 10:00am throughout August.
● No Gentle Flow Yoga until September.
Financial Education Workshop for Seniors
Monday, September 9 1:00pm
Do you have questions about how to manage your money?
Do you want to prevent fraud and scams? We are pleased
to host this FREE financial education workshop, hosted by
bank and financial-planning employees of the Office of the
State Treasurer, geared towards senior citizens.
This workshop is designed to inform older adults about the
ways to prevent financial exploitation and effectively
manage their personal finances. Fraud and scam
prevention, banking, credit, saving money, financial
recovery and more will be discussed. You will learn how
to recognize and reduce the risk of elder financial
exploitation, guard against identity theft, prepare
financially for disasters, plan for possible loss of your
ability to manage your finances and more.
Please call the COA at 508-896-2737 to reserve a seat for
this very informative workshop. Refreshments will be
served.
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.
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. You might enjoy the new friendships that you
can make at the Senior Center!
This program is sponsored by Elder Services of Cape Cod
and the Islands.
Look what’s New/Returning in September:
Help at Home – Exploring In-home services for Aging in
Place. This will be the 2nd seminar of our “Homes for a
Lifetime” Series.
Silvering Screen Series – This series features films that
use older actors to present a more balanced view of the
2nd half of life.
Funky Fitness – A 12-week challenging exercise routine
with music to make it fun. Frank Callahan returns as your
instructor!
Pizza Party to celebrate Senior Center Month in
September
More information on all of these programs will be
available in the September newsletter.
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
(Floor renovations)
(Floor renovations)
(Floor renovations)
1
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer
Users
(Floor renovations)
2
9:45am Keep Movin’!
1:00pm Ice Cream
Friday!
(No BINGO due to
Floor renovations)
5
9:45am Keep Movin’
6
8:30am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
11:00am Chair Yoga
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
7
8:00am Fourth Wall
Line Dancing
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Computer Help
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
8
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer Users
“Identifying and Avoiding
Financial Scams”
2:00pm BMCC
6:00pm
“New to Medicare”
Seminar
9
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Ice Cream
Friday!
12
9:30am Pedicare
9:30am Food to
Encourage
9:45am Keep Movin’
10:30am Lobster Roll
and Entertainment
Luncheon
13
8:30am Yoga
9:30am Pedicare
9:30am W.O.W.
11:00am Chair Yoga
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
14
8:00am Fourth Wall
Line Dancing
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Computer Help
10:30am BINGO
11:00am Healthy Meals
in Motion (Frederick Ct.)
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
15
8:00am Pet Grooming
8:30am Hearing Scrgs
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
10:30am Crafts with
Megan
1:00pm Financial
Planning
1:00pm Computer Users
2:000pm BMCC
16
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
11:00am
Rep. Tim Whelan
1:00pm Ice Cream
Friday!
19
9:45am Keep Movin’!
20
8:30am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
11:00am Chair Yoga
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
21
8:00am Fourth Wall
Line Dancing
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Computer Help
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
22
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer Users
2:00pm BMCC
23
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Ice Cream
Friday!
26
9:30am Food to
Encourage
9:45am Keep Movin’!
27
8:30am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
10:00am BP/Glucose
Testing/BLL
10:00am Legal Help
11:00am Chair Yoga
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
28
8:00am Fourth Wall
Line Dancing
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Mobile Dental
Hygiene Service
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
29
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer Users
2:00pm BMCC
30
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Ice Cream
Friday!
Page 6 Senior Happenings
August 2019 Page 7 Brewster, MA
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, until no longer needed. Simply give us a call at
508-896-2737!
Free Personal Hygiene Items!
The COA still has a large quantity of adult disposable incontinence products in various sizes.
If you or someone that you know could use them, don’t hesitate to give us a call at
508-896-2737, or just stop by. Let us know what size you’re looking for. If we’ve got them
we will be happy to give them to you!
Coming next month...
Brewster Walking Club
Wednesdays 8:30am
September 11 through October 30
Have you ever wanted to go for a walk but didn’t want to go alone?
Would you like to explore other areas of town? How about joining our
new walking group for active walkers. The walks will be no more than
one hour, and each week will feature a different location in Brewster.
Walkers should dress appropriately and bring water. Participants will be asked to provide
an email address which will enable them to be contacted if the group cancels due to
inclement weather. The first walk will be in Nickerson State Park.
Pre-registration is required by calling the COA at 508-896-2737. Each walker will be
required to sign a waiver. This club will be led by Karen Thurber, Suzanne Dean and
Rob Williams. Come join us and make new friends!
Donate your Used Eye Glasses and Hearing Aids
(yes, used hearing aids!)
The Lions Club of Dennis-Harwich is now collecting used eye glasses and used hearing aids
here at our COA. Please feel free to drop off these items in the box in our hallway.
In addition, we’ve also got a receptacle for used hearing-aid, watch and other button
batteries. You’re welcome to drop these batteries off here for proper disposal.
Take a Cruise this Summer!
The COA still has senior discount coupons for the Hyline High-Speed Ferry service to the
Islands, as well as the Hyannisport Harbor Cruise and the Cape Cod Canal Cruise.
Just stop in at the COA office to pick one up before you embark on your new
summer adventure!
Please note: these coupons are to be used for individual travel only (not for
groups).
Summer is Still Here!
The COA has 2 Beach Wheelchairs available, one of which can actually go right into the
water! We loan them out for 2 days at a time and we ask for a donation of $10.00. They
can be used at any of the Brewster beaches (either bay or pond beaches), but must stay
within town lines. For more information, and/or to reserve, please call the COA at
508-896-2737.
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: Wednesdays ~ 9:00 – 12:00pm with Del Borah
and Thursdays ~ 9:00am - 12:00pm with Pete Scheffer
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
COMPUTER USERS GROUP: Thursdays ~ 1:00 - 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!
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 August 28
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
HEARING SCREENINGS: 3rd Thursday of the month ~ 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.
PLEASE NOTE - This month’s date is August 27
FOURTH WALL LINE DANCING: Wednesdays ~ 8:00 - 8:45am
For those with prior Line Dancing experience interested in learning a new
technique. The “Fourth Wall” refers to the conceptual barrier
between a performer and an audience. Technique such as arm motions,
spotting, Latin action and more will be covered. Cost: $4.00 per class
when paid monthly. Discount available for those enrolled in Fourth Wall
and Line Dancing II classes. Come expand your skill and have fun!
LINE DANCING (II): Wednesdays ~ 8:45 - 9:30am
Some dance experience required (see class description on page 3).
Cost: $4.00 per class when paid monthly. $6.00 per class for drop-ins.
MASSAGE with Sandra: Not available until September
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 ~ 10:00 - 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! (See page 3)
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 ~
8:00 - 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: Call the COA at 508-896-2737 to see when playing.
QI GONG: Thursdays ~ 9:00 - 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.
(See page 3 for more information)
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)
6:30 - 7:15am and 3:00 - 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 and Wednesday 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: No meetings until September.
SWIMMING: Program not available until this fall.
TENNIS: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays ~ 9:00 – 11:00am
Please call the Brewster Recreation Department at 508-896-9430 for
more information.
W.O.W.: (Wonderful Older Women): Tuesdays ~ 9:30 - 11:00am
This friendly group of women review current events, talk about movies &
books, give each other support & enjoy conversation. Stop by!
YOGA: Tuesdays ~ 8:30 - 10:00am.
Please note summer hours effective through August.
$10 per class. Class uses breathing techniques as a foundation for
exploring gentle & safe stretching. Drop-ins welcome!
Page 9 August 2019
A Message from Charles Altieri, RN
Public Health Wellness Nurse, VNA of Cape Cod
Home visits will occur on Mondays.
Page 10 August 2019 Brewster, MA
‘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!
Mobile Dental Hygiene Service
Wednesday, August 28 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, and 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. 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
Health Tips: Ladder Safety
Whether you’re dusting above the cabinets or clearing the gutters, a ladder may be just the tool you
need. But each year hundreds of thousands of people seek treatment for ladder -related injuries.
Some tips for safely navigating a ladder:
● Safeguard from the start - Guard doorways and block any high-traffic areas to reduce the
chance of a collision. Be mindful of weather conditions that might make outdoor ladder use
hazardous, such as rain or high winds.
● Set a strong foundation - Set the ladder on a firm, flat and even surface. If you must use the
ladder on a soft surface, try placing a board underneath it.
● Angle appropriately - A straight or extension ladder should be placed one foot away from the
surface it’s resting against for every four feet of the ladder’s height.
● Climb carefully - Face the ladder while climbing and maintain three points of contact; either
two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand. Grip the rungs not the side rails, and don’t climb
with items in your hands. Wear shoes with good traction.
● Stop before the top - Don’t stand on the top of a step ladder. With straight or extension ladders,
avoid going higher than the third rung from the top.
● Avoid leaning and overreaching - Get down and reposition the ladder instead.
● Ask for help - If you’re not feeling steady, request help with completing the task. Or hire
someone to get the job done.
Mayo Clinic - July 2019
BE WELL! LIVE STRONG! LIVE LONG!
Charlie Altieri, BSN, RN, Public Health Nurse
Visiting Nurse Association of Cape Cod
August 2019 Page 11
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 FOBE) 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, MA
Sightings from the Poop Deck
When the boys have been beaten up by a girl and you try not to laugh when
you visit them.
Anonymous
It was a lazy summer day and we sat on the curb on Lincoln Street in Passaic, New Jersey. We were
eleven years old, upcoming juvenile delinquents; the twins Bobby and Billy, and me, peashooters in
hand looking for trouble. The choke-cherry trees were producing the green-pea ammunition not yet
quite ripened into their almost-black sour fruit, making them perfect for our peashooters. Our targets
were the passing cars and trucks. The repetition of shooting at the tires got boring so we changed our
strategy and began targeting the drivers, which was pretty comical since we were now interacting with
living things...until Billy accidentally hit some young guy right next to his eye. As the guy slammed on
his brakes Billy jumped up and ran under his porch with Redeye in hot pursuit. Bobby and I just sat
there taking it all in. At our age we had already learned that only the guilty run.
Eventually Billy had to surrender and was led to his front door by the scruff of his neck where Redeye
explained to Billy’s mother what her dear son had done and the next thing we heard coming from Billy
was “Ow, that really hurt!” As Redeye drove away I thought I noticed a smile on his face as he looked
back at us. We however, were not quite through. We went back to the tires until the nineteen year -old
girl down the street came driving by. Neither Bobby nor I particularly liked her, after all, she was a girl!
Our peashooters became machine guns and we did not miss. She stopped and we both took off and
stupidly ran in the same direction. Hey, we were only eleven, what did we know about splitting up?
Needless to say she ran as fast as today’s Usain Bolt and when she caught us we thought we were being
beaten by Rhonda Rousey, the former female Ultimate Fighting Champion. I have to admit that it still
feels humiliating to have been beaten up...by a girl!
When the streetlights came on that night and I walked home for dinner my mother asked, as I came
through the door, “Why is your face so red?” I told her I didn’t want to be late for dinner and ran all the
way. I figured if I told her the truth, I risked being beat up by a girl twice in one day!
Peter R. Scheffer (“Life is Good!”) - Split up and remember to duck!!
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 August 2019 Brewster, MA Std. Mail US Postage PAID Permit #100 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 TOWN OF BREWSTER - COA 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.