HomeMy Public PortalAboutMarch 20221673 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631 • (508) 896-2737 • Fax (508) 896-7587
Hours: 8:00am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday (open to the public: Tu, We, Th)
Denise Rego, Director Andrea Nevins, COA Board Co-Chair Sharon Tennstedt, COA Board Co-Chair
March 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.
Income Tax Preparation with AARP
Wednesdays through April 13 Brewster Town Hall, 2198 Main Street
‘Tis the season for Income Tax! Make it easy on yourself and call the Brewster COA soon at
508-896-2737 to schedule an appointment with a knowledgeable tax representative from AARP.
Appointments are available on Wednesdays through April 13th on a first-come, first-served basis and will be 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
A Timely Reminder:
Daylight Saving Time begins on
Sunday, March 13. Remember to set all
clocks forward one hour,
and remember to check the batteries in your
smoke detector(s) too.
Spring officially begins on Sunday, March 20!
Senior Technology Day
Wednesday, March 9 10:00am – 12:00pm Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Sponsored by AT&T
On March 9th, 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.
Farewell to Lisa Donovan,
Program Coordinator
We are sad to say that Lisa has left us
and has returned to her roots, which are
in the criminal justice field. She was
recruited by the Office of the District
Attorney in Barnstable County to rejoin
their team working as a Victim Witness
Advocate. We wish her the best of luck
and will miss her.
The Wearin’ of the Green
St. Patrick’s Day is on Thursday, March 17. Stop by the COA
on that day, from 10:00am to 2:00pm, and show us that
you’re wearing your green. The COA will be giving out a
St. Patrick’s Day treat! (while supplies last)
Page 2 Brewster, MA March 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!
Pedicure
Friday, March 4
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, March 17
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:
March 14 and 28
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, March 17
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 valua-
ble service.
Mobile Dental Hygiene Service
Wednesday, March 23
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
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 Medi-
caid/MassHealth: cleanings, screen-
ings, oral cancer exams, fluoride
treatments, denture care, education,
referrals.
No dental insurance? They offer
reduced private-pay options. 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
Senior Shellfish Licenses
Senior Shellfish Licenses are availa-
ble at our office, 8am to 4pm Tues-
days, Wednesdays and 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!
Cape COAST (Councils On Aging Serving
Together) collaborates to strengthen our partner-
ships and leverage our collective resources to
offer older adults on Cape Cod enhanced options
for virtual programming. 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.
A MATTER OF BALANCE (MOB)
Beginning Wednesday, March 9 8 weeks
10:00am - 12:00pm (via Zoom)
Are concerns about falling keeping you from doing the things
you enjoy? Every Wednesday for 8 weeks, we come together
as a group facilitated by certified trainers Pegg and Brenda.
MOB is an evidence-based program proven to build your
confidence and give you tools to help you stay active and
connected. For more information or to register, call
508-385-5067 or email sjones@town.dennis.ma.us
HEALTH TALKS: Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes
Wednesday, March 9 10:00am - 11:00am (via Zoom)
What you need to know about surgery and rehabilitation with a
physical therapist and the experts from Kindred Health.
Presenter: Joanne Burbank, RN, Kindred Health
To register call the Barnstable Council on Aging at
508-862-4750.
BUYING & OWNING (or LEASING) A CAR
Wednesday, March 9 1:00pm (via Zoom)
Having a car can be an expensive proposition. Find tips on
buying vs. leasing, negotiating the best deal, financing, getting
the most out of warranties and service contracts, using gas
efficiently, and avoiding repossession. Presenter: Marie C.
Clougher, Esq., Executive Director, Consumer Assistance
Council. To register call the Barnstable Council on Aging
at 508-862-4750.
THE UNUSUAL BOOK CLUB
Wednesday, March 16 10:00am (via Zoom)
Love books but feel stressed if you have to read one by a cer-
tain date? This book club is different! Rather than reading one
book, we will gather to recommend books on a selected
theme. March theme: Fantasy & Science Fiction. Join us!
To register call the Provincetown Senior Center at
508-487-7080.
MEN IN RETIREMENT: Henry Quinlan
Wednesday, March 16 10:30am - 11:30am (via Zoom)
So, you’ve retired….what now? Learn about how retirement
can bring new relationship issues, and for men who do not find
new meaningful activities to replace work, there is the risk of
boredom and a sense of purposelessness that can be stressful
and lead to depression, marital issues, and health problems.
For more information or to register, call the Bourne
Council on Aging: 508-759-0600 ext. 5300
A VIRTUAL DOCK TOUR OF WOODS HOLE
OCEANOGRAPHIC INSTITUTION
Wednesday, March 16 1:30pm (via Zoom)
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is the world's leading,
independent non-profit organization dedicated to ocean
research, exploration, and education. It is committed to ad-
vancing knowledge of the ocean and its connection with the
Earth system. Presented by Paul Daigle, docent at the Woods
Hole Oceanographic Institution. To register call the Orleans
Council on Aging at 508-255-6333 beginning March 1.
LIGHT HOUSES OF NEW ENGLAND
Tuesday, March 22 1:30pm (via Zoom)
Presented by Jeremy D’Entremont
Jeremy D'Entremont is a historian for the US Lighthouse Soci-
ety, president and historian of the American Lighthouse Foun-
dation, and the founder of Friends of Portsmouth Harbor Light-
houses. An author and producer, he has appeared many
times on national TV and radio speaking about lighthouse his-
tory. Jeremy will share stories of the many lighthouses that dot
the shorelines of Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantuck-
et. To register call the Orleans Council on Aging
at 508-255-6333 beginning March 1st.
GARDEN TALK-POLLINATION ECOLOGY – HOW CAN WE
HELP BEES?
Tuesday, March 22 11:00am - 12:00pm (via Zoom)
Honeybees, both locally and nationally have been suffering
catastrophic losses. This program will review honeybee biolo-
gy and the factors responsible for this problem. Many of the
fruits and vegetables we eat require pollination. Presenter:
Larry Dapsis, Etymologist, Cape Cod County Extension.
To register call the Barnstable Council on Aging at
508-862-4750.
NEW PATH TO POSITIVE CAREGIVING
Wednesday, March 23 10:00am - 11:00am (via Zoom)
This program is an overview of the Savvy Caregiver program
offered at the Barnstable COA. The series provides the care-
giver with skills, knowledge and techniques needed to provide
care to a person (most often a friend, or family member) who
has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (or a progres-
sive dementia). Presenter: Stacey Cullen. To register call
the Barnstable Council on Aging at 508-862-4750.
Page 3 Brewster, MA March 2022
Page 4
Need some exercise? All of
the following classes take
place at the Brewster COA
unless otherwise noted.
Beginner Tai Chi
Tuesdays, 10:30 -11:30am in
person
and Fridays 10:30 - 11:30am via
Zoom
$15 per class
Come learn Tai Chi and the many
physical and spiritual benefits. Also
known as "moving meditation," Tai
Chi can help improve balance, core
strength, flexibility, boost immunity,
and provide a mind-body connection
as a source for reducing stress.
Participants will learn the easy Tai
Chi Eight Form (Yang style), a basic
sequence of movements open to all
ages and abilities. No special equip-
ment or previous experience is nec-
essary. Classes incorporate stretch-
ing warm-ups, Qi Gong breathing
exercises, and an introduction to tra-
ditional Chinese medicine concepts
of energy flow through the body for
healing and vitality. We meet at the
Brewster COA on Tuesdays and on
Zoom on Fridays (or until the COA
reopens on Fridays). When the
weather warms up, both classes will
be held outdoors at the ball field be-
hind the COA. Also, a free Qi Gong
class every Wednesday on Zoom is
included in bi-weekly Tai Chi class
participation. Space is limited.
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
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 exer-
cises, and focuses on exploring the
"meditation-in-motion" aspect of
practicing Tai Chi. Our instructor,
A.Jay Zahn, has been practicing Tai
Chi for 40 years and teaching on the
Cape since 2018. The cost is $15 per
class, and class size is limited to 11
people.
To register for the class, please
email A.Jay Zahn at
capecodtaichisociety@gmail.com
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 me-
ridians to relieve and support vari-
ous organs. We meet at the Brewster
COA and at Drummer Boy Park,
warmer weather permitting. Our
participants also 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 cur-
rently have a class size limit of 11.
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.bitofblissyoga.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
for the class.
Brewster, MA March 2022
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 us-
ing theirs, many thanks!!
Page 6 March 2022 Brewster, MA
March Programs on Channel 18
Please note: Times and dates may change. If the Town of
Brewster needs to televise a live program, any program
featured below could be pre-empted.
Nutrition for Healthy Aging
Presented by Emily Pacetti, Food Service
Clinical Manager at Cape Cod Hospital
Emily Pacetti is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in Geriatric
Nutrition. She is also the Clinical Nutrition Manager for Cape Cod
Hospital. Emily will discuss how nutrition plays a vital role in healthy
aging and will review nutritional strategies on how diet can be used
to prevent cognitive and functional decline. For any additional
questions please email Emily at ejpacetti@capecodhealth.org
Channel 18 air times/dates:
March 2, 15, 23 11:00am
March 12 3:00pm
What You Need to Know About Geriatric Care
Management
Presented by Jill Beardsley, MA, CAGS of
Case Management Professionals in Hyannis
This presentation will discuss the role of a Geriatric Care Manager
(GCM) and their areas of expertise. It reviews when you may need
the help of a GCM, what to expect, and how to go about hiring a
GCM who is right for you and your needs. For further information,
please contact Jill at 508-771-1075 or jill@csacapecod.com.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
March 4, 17, 30 11:00am
March 26 3:00pm
Home Improvement Contractors
Presented by Robin Putnam, Research and
Special Projects Manager from the Office of
Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
This presentation includes information about the Home Improve-
ment contractor programs, including registration of contractors, how
to file a complaint, and how to apply to arbitration and the guaranty
fund.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
March 14, 22 11:00am
March 5 3:00pm
Home Safety and Modification
Presented by Dave Karas, Certified Aging in
Place Specialist
Along with good health and economic security, planning for appro-
priate housing that meets one’s needs over time is essential and
should not wait for a health crisis to begin. Evaluate your home’s
suitability for “aging in place” and learn from a Certified Aging in
Place specialist a number of free and affordable modifications that
can make your home safer and age-ready. Valuable resources will
be shared for making wise and informed decisions for the best
safety and home modification solutions.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
March 10, 31 11:00am
March 19 3:00pm
Critical Financial Conversations with Your
Family
Presented by Bob Mauterstock, Financial
Advisor
This presentation will address such critical areas as having a family
meeting, long-term care planning and legal planning. People will
leave the program with the tools to get their affairs in order to
communicate clearly with their children.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
March 9, 24 11:00am
Chair Yoga
This class accommodates 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 mini-
mizing 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:
March 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 30 7:00am
March 7, 21, 28, 29 11:00am
Funky Fitness
This workout program addresses four 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 is your instructor.
Channel 18 air times/dates:
Part 1 & 2 - 7:00am:
March 4, 7, 9, 16, 24, 28, 31
Part 1 & 2 - 11:00am
March 1
Part 3 & 4 - 7:00am
March 2, 14, 21, 23, 29
Part 3 & 4 - 11:00am
March 3, 8, 16
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 March 2022
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
1
9:00am Qi Gong
9:30am W.O.W.
10:30am Beginner
Tai Chi
2:30pm Bit of Bliss
Yoga
2
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Income Tax/TH
1:00pm Quilters
3
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
2:00pm BMCC
4
9:00am Pedicure
7
8
9:00am Qi Gong
9:30am W.O.W.
10:30am Beginner
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Bit of Bliss
Yoga
9
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
10
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:00pm BMCC
11
14
10:00 to 11:00am
Blood Pressure &
Glucose Testing
15
9:00am Qi Gong
9:30am W.O.W.
10:30am Beginner
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Bit of Bliss
Yoga
16
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Income Tax/TH
1:00pm Quilters
17
8:00am Pet Grooming
9:00am Hearing
Screenings
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:00pm BMCC
18
21 22
9:00am Qi Gong
9:30am W.O.W.
10:30am Beginner
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Bit of Bliss
Yoga
23
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Mobile Dental
Health
9:00am Income Tax/TH
1:00pm Quilters
24
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:00pm BMCC
25
28
10:00 to 11:00am
Blood Pressure &
Glucose Testing
29
9:00am Qi Gong
9:30am W.O.W.
10:30am Beginner
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:30pm Bit of Bliss
Yoga
30
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Income Tax/TH
1:00pm Quilters
31
10:00am Advanced
Tai Chi
1:00pm Keep Movin’!
2:00pm BMCC
Senior Happenings
Page 9 March 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 produce
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, March 9. 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.
Fuel Assistance
Do you need some help with your winter heating bills? Fuel Assistance season is here, so please contact
the Outreach Office at the COA at 508 -896-2737 to see if you are eligible.
SHINE Notes
Medicare’s Open Enrollment (October 15 - December 7 every year) has ended and now you find you’re
not happy with your drug plan or Medicare Insurance. What to do? Call your SHINE counselors at your
local COA. We’re not just here for Open Enrollment. We can help you all year with issues you may have
with Medicare. 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 March 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.
Medical Equipment Loans: Our medical shed is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays for equip-
ment 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 planning on bringing.
Vaccination/Booster Information
If you have questions about the COVID-19 vaccination and don’t know who to call, please see the list of helpful
resources below. It is always best to call your doctor FIRST, as they would understand your complete medical
history and can therefore properly advise you.
Visit the town’s website at https://www.brewster-ma.gov/
Call the Brewster Health Department at 508-896-3701 X1120
Call the Brewster COA at 508-896-2737
COVID-19 hotline: 774-330-3001
Dial 211 which connects you to information about critical health and human services
programs.
As of 1/19/22, every home in the US is eligible to order 4 FREE at-home COVID-19 tests from the
federal government. The tests usually ship in 7-12 days.
To order, go to http://www.covidtests.gov/
Exercise to Support Your Immune System
Your immune system is your body’s defense to fighting off infection and disease. This intricate combination of
cells, tissues, and organs works together to identify threats and neutralize them. Every body is different, but did
you know regular exercise can actually help to boost your immune system?
The American College of Sports Medicine and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that
adults participate in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week. “Every exercise session that
meets the above requirements activates the army of immune cells to seek and defend against invaders.
Cardiorespiratory exercise is particularly effective at deploying this defense, which increases the rate at which the
army of cells can search for invaders (DeSimone, 2021).”
But how exactly does exercise help boost your immune system? “The total leukocyte count can increase two- or
threefold after even brief dynamic exercise… this translates to literally billions of immune cells being redeployed
between the blood and tissues in response to every single bout of exercise we perform (Baker and Simpson,
2021).”
Research has shown that regular exercise not only helps support your immune response, it can also improve your
body’s response to vaccinations. “Regular exercise has been shown to improve immune responses to vaccination,
lower chronic inflammation, and improve various centers, HIV, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cognitive
impairment (DeSimone, 2021).” While physical activity is important for all, there are contraindications for
exercise. Speak with your healthcare team about what kind of physical activities are safe for you.
References:
Baker, Forrest L. Ph.D.; Simpson, Richard J. Ph.D., FACSM Exercise to Support Optimal Immune Function,
ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal: 1/2 2021 - Volume 25 - Issue 1 - p 5-8
doi: 10.1249/FIT.0000000000000628
DeSimone, Grace T. B.A., ACSM-CPT, ACSM-GEI SHAREABLE RESOURCE, ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal:
3/4 2021 - Volume 25 - Issue 2 - p 3
doi: 10.1249/FIT.0000000000000656
Page 11 March 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
Senior Fitness Hour
“Senior Fitness Hour” is found on Channel 99 of Lower Cape Community Access TV for older adults in the com-
munities 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 fea-
turing 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
Sightings from the Poop Deck
“All men make mistakes, but a good man yields
when he knows his course is wrong, and re-
pairs the evil. The only crime is pride.”
Sophocles
We were living at 362 Monroe Street, a tough neigh-
borhood in Passaic, New Jersey in 1943. It was extreme-
ly hot, we were on summer break and the kids on the
block were just hanging out. It was late in the afternoon
and we were actually brainstorming trying to come up
with some productive and mischievous idea. When I
think of it now it was kind of like the Ernest Borgnine
movie “Marty,” “What do you want to do today, Marty?
I don’t know, what do you want to do?” Since I was the
youngest of this bunch of hooligans, no one paid any
attention to my suggestions, like “How about a movie?”
What we settled on was to be my introduction into
my life of crime. We were going to go into “Mr. Toma-
toes’” tomato garden and help ourselves to his yield. I
said I wasn’t going; that would be stealing. This gang
convinced me that Mr. Tomatoes said it was perfectly
okay to help ourselves. Hey, I’m six years old and these
guys were ten or eleven, so I’m easy prey. So off we go
around the corner to Martha Place. It seemed odd that
if these tomatoes were free for the taking, why the six
foot fence? So the big guys jump up and over and some-
one gives me a boost, since I can’t reach the top rail,
then over I go. We were in the garden about five
minutes when I happen to notice Mr. Tomatoes looking
out his kitchen window, but he wasn’t waving and he
wasn’t smiling. As a matter of fact his face was beet red
(maybe tomato red) and he was heading for the door.
My “friends” made a beeline to the fence and were over
it like they were world-class hurdlers. I jumped for the
top rail and couldn’t quite reach after three tries. On my
fourth try I was assisted by Mr. Tomatoe’s size 10
L.L.Bean boot attached to his right foot and accompa-
nied by some well-known Italian profanity that I actual-
ly understood. I was airborne but did not holler out
“Geronimo”, only “Ow!” It would not surprise me if Mr.
Tomatoes turned out to be Adam Vinatieri’s grandfa-
ther.
As I limped around the corner massaging my sore
bum, I was greeted by a bunch of my ex friends who
were doubled over and rolling on the ground laughing.
“Not funny,” I said. The tomatoes in my pockets had
been crushed so badly that I could not even offer them
to my mother for tomato sauce.
As fate would have it, our apartment was scheduled
to be razed the following year which meant we had to
move, and my life of crime would thankfully be over.
We moved to Number 60 Sixth Avenue, also in Passaic
(where else?). Little did I know that waiting just for me
at Number 44, was Joanie Carfora. She didn’t know I
was a potential jailbird on parole, yet here we are 77
years later still living the dream. Okay, okay, I’ll admit, I
got the better of this deal!
Peter R. Scheffer - (“Life is Good!”) - Crime does not
pay…and can be a pain in the A - -!
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 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 two days notice. There will
be a maximum of 4 people per trip. A suggested donation of $2 is accepted for
this service. Please call the COA to schedule your ride at 508-896-2737.
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 March 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 Brewster Nutrition Site at
508-896-5070.