HomeMy Public PortalAboutSeptember 20191673 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
September 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.
Thank you, JT’s Seafood!
The Brewster COA would like to say a BIG thank-you to
JT’s Seafood for their generous donation of lobster for our
Lobster Roll luncheon last month at the COA.
It was delicious and enjoyed by everyone at our event.
We all feel grateful to be in a town with such kind
business-owners! Thank you JT’s, for supporting our
Brewster seniors!
Senior Center Closed for Labor Day
The Senior Center will be closed on Monday, September 2
for the Labor Day holiday.
Have a safe and happy holiday weekend!
September is National Senior Center
Month!
This year’s theme is “The Key to Aging Well”. Aging well
means different things to different people. For some, aging
well means GROWING. They want to understand other
cultures, meditate, and develop a more spiritual life or
practice gratitude daily through journaling. Others see aging
well as having time to devote to LEARNING, whether it is a
new language, tap dancing, or taking up pickle ball, a popular
recreation sport. Others see their most important work as
CONNECTING to family, old friends, and growing new
relationships. And some see GIVING back at the senior
center and within the community as the thing that fosters
purpose and a more meaningful life.
But most people want to incorporate a little of all the above
while they are on their journey to reach their full potential.
Senior centers hold the key to enhancing all these varied
experiences that are fundamental to aging well.
Senior Center Month’s Pizza Party!
Monday, September 23
12:30 - 3:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Come enjoy some pizza and drinks, while meeting our staff
and discussing the many things that we offer here at the
Brewster COA.
We will also be talking about our Brewster Police
Department’s “Smart911” program and help you understand
how to register. In order to make sure we have enough food,
please call us at 508-896-2737 to sign up! FREE
A group of happy people plays a game of Bocce at the
Brewster COA’s brand-new Bocce Court.
From left to right are: Julie Deloye, Karen Thurber,
Bob Deloye, Joe Cistulli and George Thurber.
The materials and supplies were purchased by
the Friends of Brewster Elders, and the court was installed
through the combined efforts of the Brewster DPW and the
Brewster Water Department. The COA would like to say a
special thank-you to all of the above for their money,
equipment, time and labor spent putting this court together
for the benefit of our community!
Photo courtesy of Denise Rego
Page 2 September 2019 Brewster, MA
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.
Computer Users’ Group
Thursdays: 1:00 - 2:30pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
September dates: 5, 19, 26
(No class on September 12)
Topics are solicited from program attendees at each
meeting and discussed at subsequent meetings in a
friendly atmosphere.
Skill level is from beginner to intermediate. There’s no
need to sign up ahead of time; just bring a desire to
learn something new!
Hearing Screenings
Thursday, September 19 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.
Brewster Walking Club
Wednesdays 8:30 - 9:30am
September 11 to 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 for a fun way to
exercise and make some new friends!
Thank you to our Advertisers!
This newsletter is made possible each month through
the support of the advertisers found within these pages.
Without them, the Brewster COA would not be able to
continue producing this publication.
With that in mind, the COA would like to thank the
following services/agencies/offices for their kindness in
supporting the seniors of our community:
Advanced Audiology A Place for Mom
Amy Harbeck, Kinlin Grover Realty
Cape Cod Memorials Cape Cop Home Safety
Cape Light Compact
Christine Briscoe, SeasCape Realty
Attorney Debra Coccoro
Doane, Beal & Ames Funeral Home
Herbert L. Gumpright, Jr., D.D.S.
Moore Security & Services
Morris, O’Connor & Blute Funeral Home
Nickerson Funeral Homes
Paulo’s Painting
Sharon L. Ryone, Gibson Sotheby’s Int’l Realty
Captains Golf Course Outing
Wednesday, September 25
2:30 – 4:30pm
1000 Freemans Way
Come with us to the Captains Golf Course for an
afternoon of fun! First, there will be a putting and
chipping clinic with Mark O’Brien, the Director of
Operations. Next, you’ll be taken on a short tour of
the facility, followed by a full swing clinic at the
driving range. You’ll also have an opportunity to hit
some range balls with a few pointers given by the
Nauset Boys Golf Team! The cost is FREE and clubs
will be provided. If you’re interested in golf, this is for
you!
Space is limited to 15 Brewster seniors.
The Brewster COA will provide transportation from
our parking lot at 1673 Main Street to the Captains
Club House, and also to the driving range. Of course,
you’re welcome to go directly to the Captains and meet
us there, but you’ll also need to drive your car to the
range when the full swing clinic takes place.
Simply give the COA a call at 508-896-2737 to register
for this activity.
Page 3 September 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
9:00 - 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.
Chair Yoga
11:00am - 12:00pm Tuesdays
This class is designed to teach
beginners, as well as accommodating all
levels. The students will learn to adjust
the postures according to their own
body needs, using a chair as support for
the poses. Chair Yoga can be beneficial
in terms of minimizing stress and
boosting mental clarity, managing and
coping with pain brought on by aging or
an illness, improving strength, and
enhancing flexibility.
If you would like to try Yoga but feel
you can’t participate in traditional Yoga
sessions, this class is for you!
The cost is $10.00 per class. Please
bring a mat.
The class is taught by Araci Gomes, a
certified Yoga instructor.
Fourth Wall Line Dancing
8:00 - 8:45am Wednesdays
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!
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:
September 18 to December 11
3:30 - 4:30pm (12 sessions)
Eddy School Gym
2298 Main Street
This is an advanced 12-session workout
program to address 4 major categories
of fitness: endurance, strength, balance
& flexibility. Music provides the back-
drop and inspiration for all exercises in
each 60-minute class. Frank Callahan
will be your instructor. Class starts on
Wednesday, Sept. 18 and goes through
Wednesday, Dec. 11 at the Eddy School
Gym. Note: There will be no class on
Wednesday, November 27 due to the
Thanksgiving holiday. The fee is $60
for 12 sessions, making it $5.00 per
class. You won’t believe how much fun
you can have while exercising!
To register, please call the Brewster
COA at 508-896-2737.
September 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.
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.
Food to Encourage
2nd & 4th Mondays: September 9 and 23
9:30 - 11:30am
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 glucose 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!
Crafts with Megan
Thursday, September 19 10:30am - 12:00pm
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. Each month’s project
reflects the season and there is no crafting-experience
required!
Please contact the COA by Friday, September 13
to let us know you are interested: 508-896-2737
The Silvering Screen Film Series Continues!
“Shirley Valentine”
Wednesday, September 25 12:30pm
Brewster Fire Department - Multipurpose Rm.
Tired of Hollywood’s youth-targeted blockbusters featuring
superheroes, silly romances and special effects? This Film
Series is for you! Films have been chosen for mature
audiences, featuring older actors and presenting a more
balanced view of the second half of life and intergenerational
exchange. Our movie this month is “Shirley Valentine”.
A wise-cracking, bored English housewife takes a chance at
mid-life to have adventure and recapture her dreams.
Light refreshments will be served.
If you would like to have lunch at the Senior Center before
the movie, please call 508-896-5070 by 11:00am the day
before to order your meal. Film guides and optional
discussion will follow the showing. This is a program of the
Brewster Council on Aging. We thank the Brewster Fire
Department for the use of the room!
Tai-Chi
Tuesdays and Fridays 2:00 - 3:00pm
FREE introductory class Friday, September 6
from 2:00 - 3:00pm
Classes begin on Tuesday, September 10
$10.00 per class
Learn the many physical and spiritual benefits of Tai-Chi,
a gentle, flowing, standing exercise. Classes will incorporate
stretching warm-ups, and participants will learn the series of
movements culminating in the beautiful 24-posture Yang
form. These moves can improve flexibility, coordination and
balance; build muscle strength, and provide a mind-body
connection for stress release. Our instructor, A.Jay Zahn, is a
long-time practitioner and has studied related martial arts,
breathing exercises and meditation. Tai-Chi is suitable for
people at all levels of physical conditioning. If you would
like to try it out, we invite you to come to the FREE class on
September 6 at 2:00pm. Please call the Brewster COA
at 508-896-2737 to reserve your space.
Page 4 September 2019 Brewster, MA
Help at Home:
Exploring In-Home Services for Aging in Place
Thursday, September 19 5:30 - 7:30pm
Brewster Ladies Library Auditorium
1822 Main Street
Aging in Place may require short– or long-term supportive
home services. This second installment of the “If I Live to
be 100, Where will I Live?” series, reviews the range of
public and private services available, costs, payment options,
and how to make the best decision for a good fit. Your rights
and responsibilities when a provider comes into the home
will be covered. This program is FREE and sponsored by the
Brewster Council on Aging. To reserve your seat, please call
the COA at 508-896-2737.
NEW!!
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
2
(The COA is Closed)
3
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
11:00am Chair Yoga
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
4
8:00am Fourth Wall
Line Dancing
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Computer Help
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
5
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer
Users
2:00pm BMCC
6
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
2:00pm Tai Chi
FREE intro class!
9
9:00am Pedicare
9:30am Food to
Encourage
9:45am Keep Movin’
1:00pm Workshop:
Financial Education
For Seniors
10
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
11:00am Chair Yoga
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
2:00pm Tai Chi
11
8:00am Fourth Wall
Line Dancing
8:30am Walking Club
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Computer Help
10:30am BINGO
11:00am Healthy Meals
in Motion (Frederick Ct.)
11:30am Sight Loss/BLL
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
12
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
2:00pm BMCC
13
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
2:00pm Tai Chi
16
9:45am Keep Movin’
17
9:00am Yoga
9:00am Massage with
Sandra
9:30am W.O.W.
11:00am Chair Yoga
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
2:00pm Tai Chi
18
8:00am Fourth Wall
Line Dancing
8:30am Walking Club
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Massage with
Sandra
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
19
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
2:00pm BMCC
20
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
11:00am
Rep. Tim Whelan
2:00pm Tai Chi
23
9:30am Food to
Encourage
9:45am Keep Movin’!
12:30pm Pizza Party
to celebrate
National Senior Center
Month!
24
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
10:00am BP/Glucose
Testing/BLL
11:00am Chair Yoga
1:00pm Bridge
1:00pm SHINE
2:00pm Tai Chi
25
8:00am Fourth Wall
Line Dancing
8:30am Walking Club
8:45am Line Dancing II
9:00am Mobile Dental
Hygiene Service
9:00am Computer Help
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
26
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer Users
2:00pm BMCC
27
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
2:00pm Tai Chi
30
9:45am Keep Movin’!
Page 6 Senior Happen-
September 2019 Page 7 Brewster, MA
A Message from Alzheimer’s Family Support Center
Join the Alzheimer's Family Support Center for events this fall to support free services for the
Cape's Dementia community. For information or to RSVP, call (508) 896-5170,
email: info@capecodalz.org, or visit our website: www.alzheimerscapecod.org
Alzheimer's Dinner Plate Party, Sunday, September 1, 3:00 - 6:00 pm, at the Fine Arts
Work Center, 24 Pearl Street, Provincetown. Food, Music, original plate designs for sale.
Performance of the play "Mother and Me," written and performed by NYC actor Melinda Buckley,
Saturday, October 19, 4:00pm at Provincetown Town Hall.
Walk for Alzheimer's, Sunday, October 20, 11:00am, Provincetown Town Hall. Food, Music, Dancing,
Community celebration.
Healthy Meals in Motion
This popular program serves all eligible Brewster seniors, providing a few full bags of groceries,
fresh produce 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, September 11.
Please call our Brewster COA Outreach Office to enroll at 508-896-2737.
SAVE MONEY IN 2020!!!!
MEDICARE’S OPEN ENROLLMENT IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER…
The annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7, 2019) for Prescription Drug Plans (Part D) and
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) will be here before you know it. It’s important to re-evaluate your
options during this period to ensure you have the most cost-effective plan for 2020. Each year Medicare plans
can change premiums, deductibles, co-pays and the prescription formulary (list of drugs they cover). Medicare
Advantage Plans (HMOs and PPOs) often add and/or drop primary and specialty physicians, skilled nursing
facilities and hospitals.
Your current plan must notify you by mail by September 30th of changes for the coming year. This letter is
called the Annual Notice of Coverage (ANOC). You should review this letter, and bring it with you to your SHINE
appointment to have a counselor explain it, if necessary.
If you switch plans during Open Enrollment Period, the change will take effect January 1, 2020.
In order to make the appointment most efficient, bring your Medicare Card, complete list of
your prescription drugs with dosages, and the computer printout from prior years with your
Drug List ID and Password Date (if you have it).
You can change Part D plans once per year, during Open Enrollment. Don’t miss this opportunity
to save money in 2020! Please call the COA to schedule your appointment at 508-896-2737.
Hospice and Late Alzheimer’s Disease: What to look for, when to call, and what to do
Monday, October 7 1:00 - 2:00 pm
Brewster Council on Aging, 1673 Main Street, Brewster
Join the Alzheimer’s Family Support Center and Broad Reach Hospice for lunch and a conversation about caring
for someone in late-stage Alzheimer’s disease. This program is free and open to the public.
To RSVP, please call the Brewster COA at 508-896-2737.
Melanie Braverman is co-founder and Cultural Director of the Alzheimer’s Family Support Center of Cape Cod.
Renee Bryden, OTR/L, RN, BSN, CHPN is the Hospice Education and Quality Coordinator for Broad Reach
Hospice and Palliative Care in Chatham.
Carla Torres, Administrator of Broad Reach Hospice, has been working in the hospice field on Cape Cod for 20
years. She is a Certified Hospice & Palliative Nurse, a Certified Hospice & Palliative Care Administrator.
Page 9 September 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: 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!
PLEASE NOTE: No class on September 12.
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
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. No appointments at COA in September.
FOURTH WALL LINE DANCING: Wednesdays ~ 8:00 - 8:45am
For those with prior Line Dancing experience interested in learning a new
technique. See page 3 for detailed information. Cost: $4.00 per class
when paid monthly. 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: 3rd Tuesday and Wednesday, beginning at
9:00am. Massages last 30 minutes and are offered for $15.00.
By appointment only. Call 508-896-2737
MEALS ON WHEELS: Provided to each homebound elder who is una-
ble to prepare nutritionally balanced meals. Call Brewster Nutrition at
508-896-5070.
CHATTER
WEEKLY/MONTHLY PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES:
MEDITATION: Thursdays ~ 10:00 - 11:00am Class focused on build-
ing internal awareness with an orientation toward the heart and breath.
Guided meditation. $2.00 per session. Drop-ins welcome! (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
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: September - June on the 2nd Wednesday of
each month at Brewster Ladies Library ~ 11:30am - 1:00pm. Call Sight
Loss at (508-394-3904 for more information.
SWIMMING: Brewster Green Pool ~ Fridays ~ 10:00am to 12:00pm
NOTE: Please contact the COA at 508-896-2737 to see when it starts
in September. 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 monthly/quarterly to support
this activity.
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 ~ 9:00 - 10:30am.
$10 per class. Class uses breathing techniques as a foundation for
exploring gentle & safe stretching. Drop-ins welcome!
A Message from Charles Altieri, RN
Public Health Wellness Nurse, VNA of Cape Cod
Home visits will occur on Mondays.
Page 10 September 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, September 25 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
Removing a Tick
If you find a tick on your skin, remove it as quickly as possible using these tips:
● Grasp the tick as close to your skin’s surface as possible, using tweezers if available.
● Pull upward with a steady, continuous motion. To make sure the whole tick is removed, try not to
twist it or jerk it. If mouth parts do remain in the skin, leave the area alone and let the skin heal.
Your body will expel the mouth parts over time.
● After removal, clean the area with an antiseptic such as rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
● Place the tick in a plastic bag in case you develop any of the symptoms like fever, chills, headache,
joint pain, gastrointestinal upset, and a characteristic rash shaped like a bulls eye. Bring the tick
with you when you see your doctor.
● If you live in an area where Lyme disease is highly prevalent, and the tick that you’ve removed is
very swollen and engorged with your blood, discuss with your doctor whether an antibiotic such as
Doxycycline (Monodox, Vibramycin, and others) should be prescribed to prevent Lyme disease.
Prevent ticks from getting to your skin by wearing light-colored long sleeves and pants, shoes and socks. Try to
avoid areas where ticks are found, such as tall grasses, shrubs and leaf litter. If you think you may come in contact
with ticks, protect yourself further by spraying exposed skin with a repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
You can also apply permethrin to your clothing.
Remember to check yourself, family members and your pets after being outdoors. Using repellents on your pets
will not only protect your pet, but will protect you as well. The weather is warm and the living is easy, and with
global warming our winters are milder and making the tick season longer.
BE WELL! LIVE STRONG! LIVE LONG!
Charles Altieri RN, Public Health Nurse Mayo Clinic Newsletter, June 2017
September 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
Free Personal Hygiene Items!
The COA still has a large quantity of adult disposable incontinence products in various sizes. If you or someone
who 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!
Sightings from the Poop Deck
“Keep looking up, that’s the secret of life.”....Charlie Brown
We lost our primary care physician this summer. I’m sure the decision was a difficult one having to put up with
me for a few years, but I would have appreciated just a little more advance notice than a phone call the day before
my annual wellness exam. I visited the medical center to ask for another doctor, but none of the doctors at this
particular facility were taking new patients. Now what? I was given a list of various facilities that were possibly
taking new patients and the first one visited was a “no.” Not to be too discouraged we tried a few others, were
given the forms to fill out and were told that once the forms were examined we would either receive a yay or a nay
call.
Within a week one medical center called to verify our medical records, medications, etc., and we were assigned a
new primary physician. Couldn’t be any better than that. We were now covered. However, since we now had the
name of our new doctor I thought it would be a good idea to look at my Patient Portal and to find out a little
something about our new doctor. Bad idea, or maybe good, depending how you look at things. You see, my new
doctor resembled the image above, which reminded me of one of my granddaughters. This might be okay for Joan,
but I think I have a problem. Guys, you know what I am talking about.
She can check my height and weight and see that I am shrinking, check my eyes, ears, nose and throat and say
“You should have something done with that nose.” She can have me cross my legs and check my reflexes, she
can take my temperature, blood pressure and pulse, she can have me stand on one foot, review my medications,
prescribe new ones, look at my blood test results and ask me anything she wants, but at this point, in my opinion,
my wellness exam will have now been completed. There will be no “Please turn your head to the side and cough.”
Uh uh. “We’re done grasshopper, see you in 365 days plus 1. Maybe we can talk about this at that time - and then
again maybe we won’t!” Who says that you lose all your modesty when you grow old? It might be time to begin
looking for a homeopathic doctor.
Peter R. Scheffer (“Life is Good!”) - My first visit is in September. Standby. Cough cough!!
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 September 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.