HomeMy Public PortalAboutApril 20221673 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631 • (508) 896-2737 • Fax (508) 896-7587
Hours: 8:00am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday (open to the public: Mo, Tu, We, Th)
Denise Rego, Director Andrea Nevins, COA Board Co-Chair Sharon Tennstedt, COA Board Co-Chair
April 2022
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.
Holiday Closing Notes
The COA will be closed on Monday,
April 18 in honor of Patriots’ Day.
Enjoy the holiday!
Annual Spring Town Meeting Reminder
Saturday, May 14 10:00am
Stony Brook ballfield, 384 Underpass Road
The annual Spring Town Meeting is Saturday, May 14
at 10:00am on the Stony Brook ballfield (no tent).
The rain date will be Sunday, May 15.
Join us for an Ice Cream Social!
Sponsored by the
Brewster Council on Aging
Friday, April 29 2:00 – 4:30pm
(Brewster in Bloom Weekend)
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Choose from two flavors of ice cream (vanilla or choco-
late), a selection of toppings, plus sprinkles, cherries
and whipped cream to make a delicious sundae!
Cost per sundae is only: $2.00 for Adults
$1.00 for children under the age of 12
Social distancing will be encouraged with seating
spread throughout the building as well as outside.
This is a fun-filled event for all ages! See you there!
National Volunteer Week
April 24 - 30
The Brewster Council on Aging would like to give a
BIG Thank You to all of our 64 volunteers for giving so
much of their time in 2021. We couldn’t do it without
you! The COA is planning to honor our volunteers in
May. Stay tuned for more information! Beautify Brewster Day - Saturday, April 23
It’s that time of year again where we do a little spring
cleaning around our beautiful town! If you are interest-
ed in volunteering a few hours of your time to help pick
up trash, there will be 2 routes that we (the COA) are
responsible for: between the COA and the Brewster
Ladies’ Library, and between the COA and the lights at
the corners of Routes 137 and 124.
Please call Denise at 508-896-2737 if you have
any questions or would like to sign up.
Thank you for your continued support!
Congratulations to Daryl Bladen
Our 2021 COA Volunteer of the Year!
After a career with the Federal government,
Brewster was very lucky to have Daryl move here as she
began to volunteer around our town. Daryl has been a
medical ride driver for the past 5 years, helping to
provide transportation to Brewster seniors who have
medical appointments from Brewster to Hyannis.
Daryl was also a COA Board member for 3 years,
becoming the Chairperson the following 3 years.
She has been delivering for Meals on Wheels since 2000
and continues to do so every Friday.
Daryl began volunteering at the Cape Cod Museum of
Natural History in 1996, which led her to the paid
Volunteer Coordinator’s position. She was later hired as
the Volunteer Coordinator at our Brewster Ladies’
Library until retiring in 2017.
For several years prior to the pandemic, Daryl also took
the COA’s recyclable glass, plastic and aluminum to the
transfer station.
We think you would agree that she deserves this honor
of being our 2021 COA Volunteer of the Year.
Thank you, Daryl!
New COA Hours: The Brewster COA building is now
open 4 days a week, Monday through Thursday.
Although our building remains closed to the public on
Fridays, we can still be reached at 508-896-2737.
Page 2 Brewster, MA April 2022
Check out what’s going on
at the Brewster COA this
month!
Computer Help
Wednesdays
9:00 - 11:00am
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Do you need help using your
computer? We have one-on-one, one
hour sessions available to help you
feel more confident in your comput-
er skills. Sessions are FREE!
Our knowledgeable and dedicated
volunteer instructor, Del Borah, is
here to help you on Wednesday
mornings. For all appointments,
call the COA at 508-896-2737.
Brewster Men’s Coffee Club
(BMCC)
Thursdays
2:00 - 4:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
The Brewster Men’s Coffee Club
meets on Thursday afternoons
throughout the month. Why not
come in out of the chill and join us
for some lively conversation? We’re
always looking for new members.
We’re also seeking guest speakers, so
if you’ve got a topic of interest that
you’d like to present, just let us
know.
W.O.W.
(Wonderful Older Women)
Tuesdays
9:30 - 11:00am
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Do 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!
Quilters
Wednesdays
1:00 - 3:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St
The Brewster Baysters Quilting
Group meets Wednesday afternoons
throughout the month. We invite
you to join us. We welcome begin-
ners to advanced levels of quilters
and love to share ideas and free ad-
vice. Bring your Quilting inspiration,
enthusiasm, some handwork and
don't forget your Show and Tell!
Join our lively group for lots of
laughs and good conversation about
quilting and other topics.
Pedicure
Friday, April 1
9:00am - 3:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Autumn Knight, our pedicure nurse,
has a lot of experience in the field
and works for Cape Cod Healthcare
in their clinical education depart-
ment. In addition to being a RN, she
is also a Certified Foot Care Nurse/
Specialist (CFCN / CFCS).
Autumn is available for pedicure
services the first Friday of every
month. ½-hour appointments are
available from 9am to 3pm with a
fee of $35.00.
Call the COA to schedule your
appointment at 508-896-2737.
Pet Nail Trimming
Thursday, April 21
8:00 - 8:30am
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
(in the back parking lot)
The cost is $3.00 per pet’s nail trim
for senior (60+) pet owners, and is
offered on a first come, first served
basis in the COA parking lot behind
the building (look for the van).
For more information, please text
(preferred) or call Karen Duble of
Buttons and Bows at 508-360-2596.
Blood Pressure and Glucose
Testing
Second and Fourth Mondays
of each month:
April 11 and 25
10:00 - 11:00am
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
First come, first served
The Barnstable County Public
Health Nursing program provides
services here at the COA on the 2nd
and 4th Mondays of each month. A
Public Health nurse will take your
blood pressure and check glucose if
needed. This program is offered on a
drop-in basis and includes the
opportunity to speak with the nurse
regarding any health issues.
FREE!
Hearing Screenings
Thursday, April 21
9:00 – 11:00am
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Advanced Audiology Associates
offers FREE screenings here at the
Brewster Council on Aging. Screen-
ings are by appointment only and
last approximately 15 minutes.
These will include hearing screen-
ings, ear inspections and hearing aid
checks. Please call the COA at
508-896-2737 to set an appointment
for this valuable service.
Legal Help: Update
Although our on site Legal Help
program has been temporarily
paused for now, if you need some
legal guidance, the Brewster COA is
happy to refer you to attorneys from
South Coastal Counties Legal
Services. Please contact Rashida
Dickerson at 774-487-3251. You
must be 60+ to take advantage of
this service. In addition, Attorney
Adam Dupuy is available for
appointments at his office in
Yarmouth. He can be contacted by
calling 508-775-3433.
Save the Date! On Tuesday, May 17, we will be sponsoring a Health
& Wellness Fair at the Brewster Baptist Church. There will be
many different agencies represented, as well as some of our Town Depart-
ments. So, mark your calendar and check the May newsletter for more
details!
Cape COAST (Councils On Aging
Serving Together) collaborates to
strengthen our partnerships and
leverage our collective resources to
offer older adults on Cape Cod
enhanced options for virtual program-
ming. Join us as we connect visually
through Zoom, widen our circles and
take advantage of greater opportunities for engagement,
enrichment and education. Below is a list of virtual
programs open to all.
Burials at Sea
Wednesday, April 6 2:00 - 3:00pm (via Zoom)
Thinking of burial at sea? Long time presenter Capt. Brad
White, founder of New England Burials at Sea, and Funeral
Director Chris Goulet of Hamel-Lydon Chapel & Cremation
Service of Massachusetts invite you to this highly informative
virtual presentation. Time will be available at the end for Q&A.
To register call the Barnstable Council on Aging at
508-862-4750.
Get Your Garden Ready
Tuesday, April 12 2:00pm (via Zoom)
Presented by Master Gardener Donelle Denery, this program
will focus on the proper steps to get your garden ready in
anticipation of your planting season. Flower, vegetable, and
container garden preparation will be discussed. Properly
preparing your garden in early spring sets you up for a
successful growing season! To register call the Orleans
COA at 508-255-6333
In the Kitchen with Kelli
Tuesday, April 19 11:00am (via Facebook Live)
Join Kelli and her special guests to bake sourdough
bread! Learn how to prevent illness through small changes in
your lifestyle including the type of bread you eat. For more
information or to register, call 508-385-5067 or email
kfieldhouse@town.dennis.ma.us
Garden Talk: Growing for Birds and Bees
Thursday, April 21 1:00 - 2:00pm (via Zoom)
This program will focus on why we should care about the birds
and the bees and how they share our ecosystem. Learn what
threats they face, and how we can support them in our own
yards and neighborhoods with beautiful plants. Fran Raleigh is
a Master Gardener who has a PhD in Plant Science (Ecology)
from the State University of New York College of Environmen-
tal Sciences and Forestry in Syracuse. She taught for more
than 30 years and retired to Cape Cod in 2018. Her primary
focus in gardening is to celebrate native plants and create
habitat. To register call the Barnstable Council on Aging at
508-862-4750.
WOMEN’S RADICAL AGING GROUP
Wednesday, April 27 9:30am (via Zoom)
Women’s Radical Aging Gatherings provide us with a confi-
dential space to speak of our experiences of aging: to be
heard as we talk about the hard things we carry and the daily
joys we gather. This is our place to offer support and connec-
tion to each other and revitalize our spirits! Facilitated by Mary
DeRocco, MA, LMHC, LMFT.
To register call the Provincetown COA at 508-487-7080.
Page 3 Brewster, MA April 2022
Income Tax Preparation with AARP
Wednesdays through April 13
Brewster Town Hall, 2198 Main Street
Meeting Room C
Income Tax season is almost over. Call the Brewster COA
soon at 508-896-2737 for an appointment with a knowl-
edgeable tax representative from AARP. Appointments
are available on Wednesdays through April 13th and are
held at the Brewster Town Hall. The representatives will
make the job of filing your taxes much easier! Although
the program is free, donations to the Brewster COA are
appreciated!
Note: This service is for basic, uncomplicated
tax filing ONLY! (Form 1040 or Form 1040-EZ)
Meditation Thursdays (via ZOOM) 10:00 - 11:00am
This ongoing meditation class taught by Carol Marcy meets Thursdays on ZOOM from 10:00 to 11:00am.
Meditation has proven to have many important benefits. Carol Marcy has been certified to teach meditation by
the Washington Center for Consciousness Studies. She is a long time meditator who has studied a variety of
spiritual traditions. If you are interested please email Carol so that she can send you the ZOOM link
at drcarolmarcy@gmail.com
Senior Technology Day
Wednesday, April 13 10:00am – 12:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Sponsored by AT&T
On April 13, representatives from the Hyannis and
Cape Cod Mall AT&T store will be on site at the
Brewster COA to provide assistance and answers to
any technology related questions.
Please drop by anytime between the hours of 10:00am
and 12:00pm and feel free to bring the device you
have a question about. This includes, but is not
limited to: cell phone, Kindle, iPad, laptop, etc.
Page 4
Need some exercise? All of the
following classes take place at
the Brewster COA unless
otherwise noted.
Intermediate Tai Chi
Mondays and Thursdays
11:15am - 12:15pm
$15 per class
Class starts on Monday, Apr. 11.
(No class on Monday, Apr. 18)
This class is geared toward folks who
have some experience with Tai Chi
and are familiar with the Tai Chi
Eight Form. Also known as “moving
meditation” Tai Chi can help im-
prove balance, core strength,
flexibility, and provide a mind-body
connection as a source for stress re-
lief. Classes will incorporate stretch-
ing warm-ups, Qi Gong breathing
exercises, and an exploration of
Traditional Chinese Medicine con-
cepts for healing and vitality. During
better weather we meet outdoors at
the ball field behind the COA.
To register, please email our
instructor A.Jay Zahn at
capecodtaichisociety@gmail.com
or phone 607-227-0509.
A.Jay is a long-time practitioner of
Tai Chi, Qi Gong and related martial
arts and meditation.
Advanced Tai Chi
Mondays and Thursdays
10:00 – 11:00am
$15/class
This class is offered to people who
have learned the 24 Posture Yang
Tai Chi Form (National Beijing
Form). Class includes basic warm-
up exercises, and focuses on explor-
ing the "meditation-in-motion" as-
pect of practicing Tai Chi. During
better weather we meet outdoors at
the ball field behind the COA. Our
instructor, A.Jay Zahn, has been
practicing Tai Chi for 40 years and
teaching on the Cape since 2018.
To register for the class, please
email A.Jay Zahn at
capecodtaichisociety@gmail.com
or phone 607-227-0509.
Qi Gong
Tuesdays 9:00 – 10:00am
FREE
Qi Gong is a form of exercise that
dates back 3000 years and is not a
martial art. The forms used in this
class are therapeutic, involving slow,
repetitive movements which incor-
porate meditation, deep breathing
and visualization. Many of the
movements can be done while sit-
ting. Qi is energy we use and which
needs to be replaced with fresh Qi.
The movements deal with our
meridians to relieve and support
various organs. We meet at the
Brewster COA and at Drummer Boy
Park (warmer weather permitting).
Our participants enjoy the social
aspect of these meetings as well as
the physical benefits. Contact our
instructor, Ray DiPietro, if you
would like to reserve a spot. We look
forward to meeting you!
To register for the class, please
email Ray at
rayvector@hotmail.com or call
him at 508-246-4486.
Bit of Bliss Yoga Classes
Tuesdays 2:30 – 3:30pm
$10/class or 5 classes for $45
Join our instructor Janet Bettey,
E-RYT, and experience a balance of
movement and stillness as you
nurture your body, mind and soul.
These gentle yoga classes take a
holistic approach to stretch and
strengthen the body gradually, en-
hancing your body's ability to move
and empowering you both physically
and mentally. This class is for any-
one from beginners to experienced
practitioners looking for a nourish-
ing experience to restore vitality and
find peace within. Participants bring
their own yoga mat. Space is limited.
Reserve your spot at
www.bitofblissyogaofcapecod.com
or call 978-500-2390.
Keep Movin’
Tuesdays and Thursdays
1:00 – 2:00pm
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.
Class fee will be discussed upon
registration. Please email our
instructor, Cindy Doutrich, at
cdoutric@ycp.edu to register.
Brewster, MA April 2022
Senior Shellfish Licenses
Senior Shellfish Licenses are
available at our office, 8am to 4pm
Mondays thru Thursdays. Please
bring your driver’s license (showing
that you are at least 70 years of age).
If your license does not have a
Brewster address, please bring a
copy of your latest tax bill to show
you are a Brewster resident. Licenses
are a one-time charge of $5.00 (we
accept check or cash) and are good
for your lifetime!
Did you know?
COA Video Presentations may be
viewed anywhere, anytime from
your computer, laptop, or phone.
To watch any video presentation via
your device of choice please go to
the Brewster MA Council on Aging
website. Scroll either across or down
to COA Video Program Presenta-
tions (in blue ink). Click on COA
Video Presentations then click on
any vimeo to enjoy a presentation
and/or class.
Do you have a ‘My Senior
Center’ Card?
If not, please stop by the front desk
and request one. By obtaining a card
and using it to ‘swipe in’ each time
you visit the COA for a program, you
are helping us track attendance,
which in turn helps the COA qualify
for various grants. If you’ve lost your
card, or don’t know how easy it is to
use it, just stop by our office. And to
all those who have been using theirs,
many thanks!!
Page 6 April 2022 Brewster, MA
April on Channel 18
Please note: Times and dates are subject to change. If the
Town of Brewster needs to televise a live program, any
program featured below could be pre-empted.
Emergency Preparedness
Presented by
Chip Reilly, Emergency Preparedness Specialist
for Barnstable County
Chip Reilly, the Emergency Preparedness Specialist for
the Barnstable County Department of Health and the
Environment, holds a discussion about being prepared
for an emergency with a concentration on senior
preparedness. Mr. Reilly talks about the importance of
building a kit, making a plan, and staying informed as a
means of preparing for emergencies.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
April 12 and 20 at 11:00am
April 9 at 3:00pm
Homeopathy
Presented by
Casey Hammond, RN
Homeopathy is a gentle and natural healing discipline
that works with the body’s own capacity to relieve
symptoms, restore vitality, and improve overall health.
It is recognized worldwide as a form of medicine that is
backed by thousands of research studies, papers, and
clinical trials and used by millions of Americans, over
200 million people worldwide, and in 70+ countries.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
April 6, 11, 19 at 11:00am
April 2 at 3:00pm
Love, Limits and Learning: Container Planting
Presented by Dr. Margaret Rappaport,
Master Gardener
Gardening is love. It is all encompassing. Gardening is a
great teacher; your capabilities limit what your imagina-
tion suggests. Gardening is learning; the more under-
standing you bring to the soil, plants, environments of
the garden, the better. Dr. Rappaport is presently inter-
ested in container gardening and includes the belief that
the generative response one feels when giving help to
growing plants is meaningful. Containers allow for ex-
perimentation with shapes and sizes and plantings.
This activity is innately interesting and the results are
rewarding. Exploration of locations for containers, in-
side and outside, is a source of play and fun.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
April 7, 21 at 11:00am
April 16 at 3:00pm
Pollen Ecology
Presented by Larry Dapsis,
Cape Cod Entomologist
Honeybees, both locally and nationally, have been suf-
fering catastrophic losses. This program will review
honeybee biology and the factors responsible for the
problem. In addition, we will review the state of wild
pollinators like bumblebees and the things residents
can do to help them. Many of the fruits and vegetables
we eat require pollination.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
April 1, 14, 28 at 11:00am
April 23 at 3:00pm
Chair Yoga
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.
The class is taught by Araci Gomes, a certified Yoga
instructor.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
April 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 27 at 7:00am
April 4, 18, 25, 26 at 11:00am
Funky Fitness
This workout program addresses four major categories
of fitness: endurance, strength, balance & flexibility.
Music provides the backdrop and inspiration for all
exercises in each 60-minute class.
Frank Callahan will be your instructor.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
Part 1 & 2 - 7:00am:
April 1, 4, 6, 13, 21, 25, 28
Part 1 & 2 - 11:00am
April 27
Part 3 & 4 - 7:00am
April 11, 18, 20, 26
Part 3 & 4 - 11:00a
April 5, 13
For the latest information on town topics, we
encourage you to visit the Town of Brewster website
at:
www.brewster-ma.gov
Page 7 Brewster, MA April 2022
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
1
9:00am Pedicure
4
5
9:00am Qi Gong
9:30am W.O.W.
10:30am Beginner
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Bit of Bliss
Yoga
6
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Income Tax/TH
1:00pm Quilters
7
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:00pm BMCC
8
11
10:00am
Blood Pressure &
Glucose Testing
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
11:15am Intermediate
Tai Chi
12
9:00am Qi Gong
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Bit of Bliss
Yoga
13
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Income Tax/TH
10:00am Senior
Technology Day
11:00am Healthy Meals
In Motion
(Frederick Court)
1:00pm Quilters
14
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
11:15am Intermediate
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:00pm BMCC
15
18
The COA is
closed
19
9:00am Qi Gong
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Bit of Bliss
Yoga
20
9:00am Computer Help
1:00pm Quilters
21
8:00am Pet Grooming
9:00am Hearing
Screenings
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
11:15am Intermediate
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:00pm BMCC
22
25
10:00am
Blood Pressure &
Glucose Testing
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
11:15am Intermediate
Tai Chi
26
9:00am Qi Gong
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Bit of Bliss
Yoga
27
9:00am Computer Help
1:00pm Quilters
28
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
11:15am Intermediate
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:00pm BMCC
29
2:00pm
Ice Cream at the
COA!
(Brewster in Bloom
weekend - 4/29 to 5/1)
Senior Happenings
Page 9 April 2022 Brewster, MA
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.
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels delivers meals to people aged 60 and over who are homebound and unable to prepare
their own meals. For more information call Elder Services, Information and Referral at 508-394-4630
or 1-800-244-4630. If you are already a client and need to reach our Nutrition Site, please call Kelly
Rooney at 508-896-5070.
OUTREACH Notes
Our Outreach staff is available for information about: Fuel Assistance, SNAP Assistance, Emergency
Buttons, Homecare Assistance, Medical Equipment, Elder Services, and referrals of all types. For help
with any of these, please contact the Outreach Office at 508-896-2737.
Healthy Meals in Motion
This popular program serves all eligible Brewster seniors, providing groceries, fresh pro-
duce and paper products each month. Preorder from a wide selection of food items and
your order will be ready for pickup at Senior Housing at Frederick Court between 11:00am
and 12:00pm. Brewster’s date is always the second Wednesday of each month, so the
next date will be Wednesday, April 13. Please call the COA Outreach Office to enroll at
508-896-2737.
Property Tax Relief
Applications are now available for the Fiscal Year 2022 tax season to qualifying seniors who meet
certain eligibility requirements. Please call Brenda Locke or Debra Johnson to find out if you qualify for
significant savings at 508-896-2737 or email blocke@brewster-ma.gov.
SHINE Notes
Are you confused about what you’re paying at the pharmacy? Wondering why that one drug is so
expensive when it was cheaper last month? Before spending frustrating hours dealing with a person at
the other end of the phone at your insurance company, call your SHINE counselors. We may be able to
decipher problems and offer solutions quickly and easily. We aren’t just here during open enrollment,
we’re here year ‘round. SHINE counselors are state certified and offer their unbiased services free of
charge. Our Brewster COA SHINE counselors can be reached at 508-896-2737.
Senior Dining at the COA - Temporarily on hold
Senior Dining at the COA has been temporarily paused until further notice. Meals on Wheels will still
be offered as they have been. When Senior Dining resumes, we will let you know.
Page 10 April 2022 Brewster, MA
A Message from Nikki Courtney, Exercise Physiologist & Activities Specialist
VNA of Cape Cod - Public Health and Wellness
Home visits will occur on Mondays.
Senior Fitness Hour
“Senior Fitness Hour” is found on Channel 99 of Lower Cape Community Access TV for older adults in the
communities of Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, and Truro. It is the result of a collaborative effort between
Lower Cape TV and the Councils on Aging in these communities. Every weekday there will be fitness classes
featuring instructors from various senior centers. From 10:00 - 10:30am, there will be regular senior fitness
classes, and from 10:30 - 11:00am there will be chair fitness classes. See below for the schedule:
10-10:30am: Regular Senior Fitness 10:30-11am: Chair Fitness
M Frank’s Funky Fitness M,W,F Life Exercises with Janet
Tue, Th Morning Fitness with Becky Tue Chair Fitness with Melissa
W Fitness with Melissa Th Sit Fitness with Becky
F Gentle Yoga with Debra
Medical Equipment Loans:
Our medical shed is open Monday - Friday for equipment pick up. If we have what you are looking for you are
welcome to take it. There is no cost and no set return date. If you find you no longer need the item, please return
it to us in clean, working order. We also welcome donations of clean, durable medical equipment in good
working order. If donating, please call the COA first at 508-896-2737 to tell us what you are bringing.
Vaccination/Booster Information
If you have questions about the COVID-19 vaccination and/or booster shots, or if you need to get one, please
call the Brewster COA at 508-896-2737.
Heart Health
The heart is an incredible organ - it beats about 100,000 times a day. According to the World Health Organiza-
tion, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, with heart attacks and strokes at the top of
the list. Luckily, your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases can be lowered by making lifestyle changes.
● Smoking cessation. Smoking can increase heart rate and blood pressure. This is due to smoke damaging
blood vessels, causing them to thicken. The heart has to work harder to pump blood through the narrow
passage. Smoking can also cause the formation of blood clots, increasing the risk for a stroke.
● Eating a balanced diet. Research has shown that eating a diet that is high in cholesterol, saturated fats,
trans fats, and sodium is linked to cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association recommends a
diet emphasizing fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins. Additionally, they recommend
minimal processed foods, minimal added sugar, limited alcohol consumption, and low sodium. Speak with
your healthcare team about what a healthy, balanced diet looks like for you.
● Regular physical activity. Adults should aim to get at least 150-300 minutes of moderate physical
activity each week. Regular physical activity lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood
pressure, and obesity. Any amount of movement is better than none, so speak with your healthcare team
about what kinds of physical activity are right for you.
● Medication Adherence. According to the American Heart Association, not adhering to your medication
instructions significantly increases the risk for mortality, repeat hospitalizations, and heart failure. Make
sure to regularly see your healthcare team to help manage your health and medications.
For more information about lifestyle changes you can make to improve heart health, visit
//heart.org/en/healthy-living
COVID-19 Home Test Kits for Brewster HOMEBOUND residents
On Saturday, March 5th, the Town distributed COVID-19 Home Test Kits. If you are a Brewster HOMEBOUND
resident and would like to have a kit, please call us at 508-896-2737.
Page 11 April 2022 Brewster, MA
‘Brewster Bayside Chatter’ Online:
The ‘Brewster Bayside Chatter’ is available online each month and can be found at:
https://www.brewster-ma.gov/council-on-aging
Scroll down to where it reads: ‘our newsletters are available online’ and click on the link! Or go directly to:
http://records.brewster-ma.gov/weblink/Browse.aspx?dbid=0&startid =75664&row =1&cr=1
Sightings from the Poop Deck
“Happiness is like peeing in your pants.
Everyone can see it, but only you can feel the warmth.”
Jon Foreman
Like many of you, I am on a consistent regimen of visiting with my primary care physicians periodically
throughout the year. My daily activities rotate around my doctor appointments like the earth revolving in orbit
around the sun. These visits come more frequently now and are in direct proportion with my age, e.g., the older I
get the more frequent my doctor visits. Before I visit with my cardiologist I need to fast and then run to Fontaine
for a blood test which the doctor will subsequently analyze and make adjustments to my medication. I do not ob-
ject to his dictates and think he is doing a marvelous job. Afterall I’m still here!
On one of my visits a few years ago, the results of the blood test indicated that my kidneys needed to work a
little harder, and I was given a new prescription for a diuretic. Many of you are aware of the results when taking a
diuretic. The prescription… 20mg Torsemide tablet taken daily. Now I don’t know if any of you are familiar with
Torsemide, but if you are, you are well aware of the consequences. Warning - if you plan on shopping on any giv-
en day after swallowing a Torsemide tablet, choose a store either surrounded by many trees, or be sure you know
where all the restrooms are located. By the way, over the years, post Torsemide, I have put together a handy-
dandy booklet of every store on Cape Cod and where its restrooms are located. Big tip…If you happen to be in
Home Depot in Hyannis and you get an emergency calling, grab a bucket and hide behind the appliances because
you will never find the restroom in time. My illustrated booklet is very complete and up-to-date and should you
wish your very own autographed copy of the first edition send me a self-addressed-stamped envelope. Please indi-
cate how you would like me to sign it, otherwise it will read, “Running on Empty.”
Guys, here is another bit of helpful advice. Those favorite chinos that you can’t live without are no longer
suitable in public if you are on a diuretic. They are a no-no. Ditch them forever, or plan on investing in some adult
pampers. You may want to dig out those navy and black trousers as an alternative.
I have recently completed a very unscientific study and concluded that many dogs may also be on Torse-
mide. Why else would they stop at every pole, tree, and fence post? I really envy them, but then again I mimic
them when no one is looking.
Peter R. Scheffer - (“Life is Good!”) - Now where the hell is that restroom in Home Depot? Bucket please!!
poop deck, n., a deck above a ship’s main afterdeck
Transportation Notes:
Due to demand, we regret that we are unable to accommodate grocery shopping or other errand requests from
our friends residing at assisted living facilities. However, we are happy to still offer rides to routine medical
appointments as far as Hyannis. Appointments should be booked between the hours of 9:00am and 2:00pm. We
do require a 4 business day notice. This service is provided by volunteers using their own private vehicles.
Please call the COA for more information at 508-896-2737.
BHT - BOSTON HOSPITAL TRANSPORTATION
Enjoy comfortable and safe transportation from Cape
Cod DIRECT to Boston hospitals on a wheelchair-
accessible bus Service available Mon. thru Thur. only.
MONDAY thru THURSDAY SCHEDULE
7:30am Orleans (Shaw’s Market)
7:40am Fontaine Medical Center (Entrance)
7:45am Harwich (Route 6 & 124 Commuter Lot)
8:00am Barnstable (Route 6 & 132 (Burger King)
8:15am Sagamore (Commuter Lot)
RESERVATIONS are a MUST!!!
(Reserve no later than 9:00am 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: 8:00am – 5:00pm
Schedule your medical appointments between
10am & 2pm. The bus will leave Boston by 3pm.
Please visit the website for more information:
www.capecodrta.org
TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
COA VAN - We offer trips for Grocery Shopping in Orleans on Thursdays, from
11:00am to 1:00pm. We require at least two days notice. There is a maxi-
mum of 4 people per trip. A suggested donation of $2 is accepted for this ser-
vice. Please call the COA to schedule your ride at 508-896-2737.
NOTE: This service is not available to those residing at assisted living facilities.
MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS - Volunteer drivers are available for transport to
routine medical appointments in their personal cars. We travel as far as
Hyannis and regret we can not accommodate patients having procedures.
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 schedule your ride. Please notify the COA if you can’t keep your appoint-
ment so we can notify our driver. Donations are accepted for this service. All
appointments should be booked for times between 9:00am and 2:00pm.
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 April 2022 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. Rides must be scheduled by no later than noon on the day prior to a ride. Rides can be scheduled up to 30 days in
advance. 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.
Please note: There is no on-site Senior Dining available at the Brewster Council on
Aging until further notice. This menu is for Meals on Wheels program participants
only. For more information, please contact our Kelly Rooney at our Brewster
Nutrition Site at 508-896-5070.