HomeMy Public PortalAboutSeptember 2018
1673 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631 • (508) 896-2737 • Fax (508) 896-7587
Hours: 8:00am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday
Denise Rego, Director Andrea Nevins, COA Board Co-Chair Alice Stelzer, FOBE President
Sharon Tennstedt, COA Board Co-Chair
September2018
MISSION STATEMENT: To support and advocate for older adults and their families by
providing programs, services and resources that promote individual living and quality of life.
The Senior Center will be closed on
Monday, September 3rd in honor of
Labor Day.
Have a safe and happy holiday
weekend!
“New to Medicare” Seminar
Wednesday, September 26th
6:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Congratulations on turning 65
and becoming eligible for
Medicare! What exactly does
that mean?
Come and get the straight
story from our certified
SHINE counselors.
There are some important things you should know
about your Medicare options.
Our SHINE counselors will introduce you to the
confusing world of Medicare A, B, C, and D,
enrollment periods, medigaps, Medicare
Advantage plans, and when you should sign up for
coverage.
Please call us at 508-896-2737 to reserve your
seat.
A light supper will be provided by
Wingate of Brewster.
SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL SENIOR CENTER MONTH!
This year’s theme is ‘Senior Center: Building Momentum!’
We have begun to roll out our 5 Year Action Plan, so you will be seeing
new and more programs, as we build momentum for our community residents. Let’s celebrate by having a
“Meet & Greet” afternoon with our staff, along with entertainment and a delicious cake and refreshments!
This will be held on Monday, September 17th at 1:00pm.
Please call us at 508-896-2737 to let us know if you can come, because we don’t want to run out of cake!
Dance Your Way to Better Health
Although our center doesn’t offer dance nights, our
neighboring Dennis Senior Center does and you are
welcome to attend!
Upcoming Social Dance Nights are scheduled for:
August 24th, September 28th, November 23rd and
December 28th.
For more information and exact times, please call the
Dennis Senior Center directly at 508-385-5067.
Affinity Groups
A number of people have suggested the COA organize
“Affinity Groups” or groups with people who have similar
interests and would like to get together.
Examples might be interests such as: dine-arounds, wood
working, stamp collecting, walking partners, knitting, etc.
If you would like to suggest an Affinity Group topic, please
contact Denise at 508-896-2737.
Page 2 September 2018 Brewster, MA
Exercise your Options!
The Brewster Council on Aging
offers the following exercise
and wellness classes to help
you have a healthy, active and
enjoyable season!
All classes are at the
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Come check us out!
Keep Movin’
Mondays and Fridays
9:45 - 10:45 am
This program is primarily
strength-training for seniors. The
classes are friendly, and a fun way to
relieve arthritis symptoms and learn
important strengthening exercises.
Classes start easy and help to build
strength and coordination each week
by using hand & leg weights 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
Tuesdays: 9:00 - 10:30 am
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. No need to sign up in
advance. Feel free to check out a
class to see if it’s right for you!
Our long-time instructor is
Marilou Raposa.
Line Dancing
Wednesdays: 8:45 - 9:30 am
A fun, new way to get light exercise
and meet new friends. This is NOT
your usual Country-Western line
dance class. We dance to all styles of
music! No dancing experience
required! $4.00 per class when paid
monthly, $6.00 per class for drop-
ins. Come at 8:35am for an optional
10-minute warm-up period for
students with knowledge of jazz
boxes, grapevines, paddle turns, etc.
Our instructor, Karen Shackleford,
comes to us from ‘Cape Sands
Ballroom’. Dance your cares away!
Qi Gong
Thursdays: 9:00 - 9:45 am
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. You’re welcome
to come check it out! Our instructor
is Ray DiPietro.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are new
to the COA’s Qi Gong program,
be sure to give the COA a call
before dropping by the class.
On particularly good-weather
days, class sometimes meets at
the gazebo in Drummer Boy
park. Just give us a call at
508-896-2737 if you’re
unsure of where
they are
meeting.
Balancing Act
Wednesdays, 6 classes: 9:30am - 10:15am September 5th through October 10th
$12.00 for six classes
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
Better Balance through Body Awareness and Fun! The COA is pleased to announce another
6-week session of this popular class! We will explore a number of ways to build more awareness of our bodies in
order to establish good balance. Some of what we will do will be seated. Some of it will be using our chairs as we
learn to create a sense of our bodies balancing while standing. We will also work on having a good posture while
standing, as well as walking and moving. There will be some exercises to help build a stronger body core and
sense of being centered in our bodies. We might even play some easy movement games to help build confidence
physically from the inside out. Come join us for building good balance and having fun with it at the same time!
Please give the COA a call at 508-896-2737 to register. Sorry, no drop ins. Our instructor is Carol Marcy.
Beginner’s Meditation Class
Thursdays, 6 classes: 10:00am - 11:00am September 6th through October 11th
$12.00 for the six classes
Brewster COA, 1673 Main St.
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? We are again offering a beginner’s meditation class that will focus on building internal
awareness with an orientation toward the heart and breath. Our instructor will also talk about the many benefits
of meditation, as well as some of the research, and use a guided meditation format. Carol Marcy has a Master’s
degree in Dance/Movement Therapy, a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, had a private practice for 26 years in
Maryland, and was the Director of the Office of Stress Management for the Montgomery County Police
Department for 7 years. She comes with a lot of knowledge, and you can benefit from it! Please stop in or call the
Brewster COA to sign up at 508-896-2737. Sorry, no drop ins.
Page 3 September 2018
W.O.W. (Wonderful Older Women)
Tuesdays: 9:30am - 11:00am
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Are you sitting at home talking to yourself?
Would you enjoy talking with others and feeling good
about your day? Do you like to discuss books, movies,
local events and issues?
Then WOW would love to welcome you into our weekly
discussion group. Join us whenever you can at the
COA! You’ll find us to be a very friendly group with a
positive attitude.
If you have any questions, please call the COA at
508-896-2737.
Brewster, MA
‘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!
Computer Help
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Thursdays: 9:00am - 2:00pm
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 completely
FREE!
September dates are: 20, 27
If you’d like to make an appointment,
please contact the Brewster COA at
508-896-2737
Brewster Mens’ Coffee Club
Thursdays, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
The Brewster Mens’ Coffee Club will be meeting on
the following Thursday afternoons in September:
6, 13, 20, 27
Come join us for a cup of coffee and some lively
conversation.
We’re always looking for new members as well as Guest
Speakers! We welcome you to join us!
Computer Users Group
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Thursdays: 1:00pm - 3:00pm
PLEASE NOTE:
There will be no meetings of the Computer
Users Group this month. Please check next
month’s ‘Bayside Chatter’ for more
information.
Thank you to Marilou!
Marilou Raposa, who has been one of our dedicated
Massage therapists, is stepping away from providing
massages. The COA would like to thank her for her
many, many years of providing massages to our
seniors!
She will continue on as our Tuesday morning Yoga
instructor, so we’re very happy that we’ll all still be
able to see her at the COA!
Massages with Sandra are back!
3rd Tuesday of the month: 11:00am - 3:00pm
3rd Wednesday of the month: 10:30am - 1:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
The COA is happy to offer Massages with Sandra
Smith for two days this month! Massages are $15.00
for 1/2-hour, and by appointment only. Please give
the COA a call at 508-896-2737 to reserve your spot!
Mobile Dental Hygiene Service
Mobile Dental Hygiene Services is now offering
friendly, convenient, and affordable preventative oral
health care at the Brewster Council on Aging!
The following services are FREE to eligible individuals
with Medicaid/MassHealth: cleanings, screenings, oral
cancer exams, fluoride treatments, denture care,
education, referrals.
No dental insurance? They offer reduced private-pay
options such as: cleaning - $80 , fluoride treatment -
$20 , denture care - $25 and an exam for $30.
The price of a cleaning includes an exam and denture
care. They will also see children if there are any
visiting grandchildren!
This service will be held on the 4th Wednesday of
every month. This month, the date will be
Wednesday, September 26th.
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
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 St.
(unless otherwise noted)
Food to Encourage
2nd & 4th Thursdays: September 13th & 27th
9:45 am to 11:30 am
Lower Cape Outreach Council in partnership with the
Barnstable County Public Health Nurses and the
Brewster COA are looking to explore the impact of
Nutrition & Healthy eating on Diabetes &
Hypertension.
This program is open to everyone. Health monitoring
by a nurse, involving Blood Pressure and Glucose
checks, will be provided. Each participant will receive a
bag of fresh fruits/veggies every other week, along with
free recipes! Just stop by at any point during the time
period listed above!
Crafts with Megan!
Thursday, September 20th
10:30am - 12:30pm
Free! Come join us for yet another great day!
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. There is a maximum class size
of 6 participants, so don’t wait to sign up!
Please contact the COA by Friday,
September 14th to let us know you are interested:
508-896-2737
Monthly General Grief Support Group
Wednesday, September 26th
2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Have you lost a loved one?
It might be difficult on these lovely fall days when it
seems that everyone else is happy but you are still
grieving. Hope Hospice will be hosting a support
group here at our senior center.
All Hope Hospice grief support groups provide a safe,
confidential and supportive setting for anyone
experiencing a loss. These are mutual support groups
led by specially-trained facilitators. Registration is
required.
For more information and to register, please contact
Hope Hospice at 508-957-0304.
Page 4 September 2018 Brewster, MA
Friends of Brewster Elders
Sea Captain’s Thrift Shop
66 Harwich Road (Route 124)
Monday - Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Looking for some early fall deals?
Be sure to check out the great values at the shop!
We’ve got everything you need for those cooler days
ahead!
We’re open 6 days a week, so come stop in!
Attention Swimmers!
The Friday Senior Swimming
program at Brewster Green Resort
resumes this month on September 14th.
This program is open to Brewster residents only, age
60+. You must have a swipe-card issued by the
Brewster COA in order to attend. These cards are
FREE. If you do not have one, simply stop in our
COA office to request one.
Swim time is from 10:00am to 12:00pm on most
Fridays during the off-season. The resort requests
that you do not arrive before 10:00am, and depart by
noon.
Many thanks to our friends at Brewster Green for
continuing to allow our seniors the privilege of
swimming in their lovely pool!
Although the resort does not charge you to swim, the
COA requests a $1.00 donation per swim on an honor
system. Stop by the COA on a monthly or quarterly
basis to support this activity.
Color Me Creative!
Monday, September 17th 1:00pm
Free! If you love to color, you’ll
LOVE this workshop! First, we view
and discuss a painting from the
Cape Cod Museum of Art. Next, we
grab our colored pencils, markers and
a coloring-book version of that same
painting and get creative!
Come meet new friends and relax while you unlock
your own creativity. Light, seasonal refreshments will
be served!
Please call the COA at 508-896-2737 to sign up for
this fun program!
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
3
(The COA is closed)
4
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
5
8:45am Line Dancing
9:30am Balancing Act
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
6
9:00am Qi Gong
10:00am Meditation
2:00pm BMCC
7
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
10
9:00am Pedicare
9:45am Keep Movin’!
11
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
12
8:45am Line Dancing
9:30am Balancing Act
10:30am BINGO
11:00am Mobile Pantry
(Frederick Ct.)
11:00am Sight Loss/BLL
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
13
9:00am Qi Gong
9:45am Food to
Encourage
10:00am Meditation
2:00pm BMCC
14
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
17
9:45am Keep Movin’!
1:00pm Color Me
Creative!
1:00pm Celebration:
National Senior Center
Month
Meet & Greet event
with refreshments!
18
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
11:00am Massages
with Sandra
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
19
8:45am Line Dancing
9:30am Balancing Act
10:30am BINGO
11:00am Massages
with Sandra
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Quilters
20
8:00am Pet Grooming
8:30am Hearing
Screenings
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
10:30am Crafts with
Megan
1:00pm Financial
Planning
2:00pm BMCC
21
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
11:00am
Rep. Tim Whelan
24
9:45am Keep Movin’!
25
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
10:00am BP/Glucose
Testing & Health/BLL
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
26
8:45am Line Dancing
9:00am Mobile Dental
Hygiene Service
9:30am Balancing Act
10:00am Legal Help with
Atty. Katie Wibby
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
2:00pm Grief Support
Group
6:00pm Seminar:
New to Medicare
27
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
9:45am Food to
Encourage
10:00am Meditation
2:00pm BMCC
28
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
Page 6 Senior Happenings
Disclaimer
The Brewster Senior Center offers many legal, financial, recreational, medical screening or
other services and/or activities by volunteer or nominal-cost practitioners. Seniors
participating in these services do so with the understanding that the Brewster Council on
Aging, The Brewster Senior Center, the Town of Brewster, Friends of Brewster Elders (aka
F.O.B.E.) or its employees or agents DO NOT ASSUME ANY LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR
ANY ADVICE OR SERVICES RENDERED BY SUCH VOLUNTEER OR NOMINAL COST
PRACTITIONER. Any act, advice, or service by outside providers at the Council on Aging
SHOULD NOT BE PRESUMED TO BE ENDORSED OR SPONSORED BY THE BCOA.
September 2018 Page 7
Mobile Pantry - “Healthy Food to Go”
We are pleased to bring you this program in cooperation with The Family Pantry of Cape
Cod. Participants select their food in advance using the provided shopping list, which
includes standard non-perishable foods, along with special non-perishable foods, fresh
produce, bread products, dairy and meats.
Your shopping order is pre-bagged at the Family Pantry and kept in a refrigerated truck until
you pick it up. This takes place on the 2nd Wednesday of each month, from 11:00am to
12:00pm at Frederick Court. Our next date is Wednesday, September 12th.
Participants must register and be income-qualified. For more information, please call Debra
or Brenda at our Outreach Office at (508) 896-2737.
Brewster, MA
SHINE News…
MEDICARE’S OPEN ENROLLMENT IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!
Don’t wait until it is too late!
The Open Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7, 2018) for Medicare Advantage Plans
(Part C) and Prescription Drug Plans (Part D) will be here before you know it and it is very
important to re -evaluate your Medicare options for 2019 during this period. Each year
Medicare plans can change premiums, deductibles, co-pays and the prescription formulary
(list of drugs they cover). In addition, Medicare Advantage Plans (HMOs, PPOs) often add
and/or drop primary and specialty physicians, skilled nursing facilities and hospitals.
Your current plan is required to notify you by September 30th of any changes for the coming
year. This letter is called the Annual Notice of Coverage (ANOC) - please make sure you
review it. If you decide to stay with your current plan there is no further action required.
If you switch your Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D)
Plan during the Open Enrollment Period it will take effect January 1, 2019 (please note - this
enrollment period may not affect you if you have retiree coverage).
SHINE appointments fill up quickly so don’t forget to call the Brewster COA at
508-896-2737 during late September or early October to make your SHINE
appointment for this year’s open enrollment.
Remember- don’t wait until it is too late. If you don ’t make a change during the
Open Enrollment Period (Oct 15 - Dec 7, 2018) you may have to stay with your existing plan
for another whole year.
Attention: Pickleball Fans!
The Brewster Recreation Department has listed the following dates and times for Pickleball
games:
September 29, 12-2pm outside at Stony Brook courts (16 people)
October 27, 12-2pm, outside at Stony Brook courts (16 people)
November 17, 9-11am, inside in Eddy Gym (12 people)
Drop-in Pickleball times can also be discussed with the Rec. Dept. For more information,
see the Brewster Recreation Department’s website, or call them at 508-896-9430.
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.
Dr. Molly Perdue, facilitator. Drop-ins welcome. Call (508) 896-5170
for more information.
BANKING ASSISTANCE: For help balancing seniors’ checkbooks. By
appointment only. Please call the COA at (508) 896-2737 to reserve.
BINGO: Wednesday and Friday ~ 10:30 - 11:30am.
BLOOD PRESSURE & GLUCOSE TESTING/HEALTH COUNSELING:
4th Tuesday of the month at the Brewster Ladies Library, lower level.
10:00am – 2:00pm - On a drop-in basis. Provided by VNA of Cape Cod.
BREWSTER MEN’S COFFEE CLUB (BMCC): Thursdays ~ 2:00pm.
BRIDGE (men’s and women’s groups): Tuesdays ~ 1:00pm.
COMPUTER HELP: Thursdays ~ 9:00am – 2:00pm
By appointment only. 1-hour sessions are hands-on, one-on-one,
and participants choose their own pace and area of interest.
Call (508) 896-2737
PLEASE NOTE: This month’s dates: September 20 and 27
COMPUTER USERS GROUP:
PLEASE NOTE: There will be no meetings of the Computer Users
Group this month. See next month’s ‘Bayside Chatter’ for
more information.
DENTAL HYGIENE SERVICE: 4th Wednesday ~ 9:00am
Mobile Dental Hygiene Service offers friendly, convenient and affordable
preventative oral health care at the COA! To make an appointment,
please call Mobile Dental Hygiene Svc. at (508) 827-6725 or visit their
website at smiles@mobiledentalhygiene.com
PLEASE NOTE: This month’s date is Wednesday, September 26th
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 ~ 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 Wednesday with Atty. Katie Wibby.
Atty. Adam Dupuy still offers legal advice, but does not have scheduled
dates at the COA. 1/2-hour appointments.
By appointment only: (508) 896-2737 The attorney will answer your
legal questions. Free for initial appointment.
LINE DANCING: Wednesdays ~ 8:45am - 9:30am No dance
experience required. $4.00/class when paid monthly, or $6.00/class for
drop ins. Cash or checks payable to “Cape Sands Ballroom”.
No need to call first; just come and join us!
MASSAGE with Sandra: 3rd Tuesday, beginning at 11:00am, and 3rd
Wednesday, beginning at 10:30am. 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 unable
to prepare nutritionally balanced meals.
Call Kelly Kirby at (508) 896-5070.
CHATTER
WEEKLY/MONTHLY PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES:
OLD FASHIONED QUILTING BEE: Wednesdays ~ 1:00pm.
Fellow quilters bring in their quilting projects and enjoy the camaraderie of
other quilters. Come join in with the ‘Brewster Basters’!
OUTREACH ASSISTANCE: The Outreach Workers will answer any
questions you have about resources and programs you may be entitled to,
assist with assessing needs, file-of-life, fuel assistance applications, etc.
Please call (508) 896-2737 to make an appointment.
PEDICARE: 2nd Monday of the month ~ 9:00am - 2:30pm
(Diabetics must see a MD/Podiatrist). ½ hr. appointments - $29.00
Home Visit - $50.00 Please call (508) 896-2737 for appointment.
PET GROOMING: Buttons & Bows ~ 3rd Thursday of the month ~
8:00am - 8:30am Nail clipping for animals will take place in a mobile van
at the back of the COA. First-come, first-served. The charge is $3.00
(normally $10.00). Stop by!
PICKLEBALL: Courts are available at 384 Underpass Road, by
Stony Brook School. Contact the Brewster Recreation Dept.
at (508) 896-9430 for more information.
QI GONG: Thursdays ~ 9:00am - 9:45am. $10.00 for 5 sessions.
Chinese method for enhancing the immune system; utilizing posture and
breathing exercises, along with focused intentions. Gentle and calming.
PLEASE NOTE: Please call the Brewster COA at (508) 896-2737 for
more information, and to find out where the class is meeting during
September.
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 Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11:30am.
SENIOR STRIDERS: This program has been discontinued until
further notice per the Brewster Recreation Dept.
SHINE: Serving the Health Information Needs of Everyone
Tuesdays & Wednesdays - 1:00pm - 4:00pm Highly-trained volunteer
counselors help seniors and Medicare beneficiaries understand their rights
and benefits. Please contact the COA for an appointment at:
508-896-2737. Appointments are FREE!
SIGHT LOSS GROUP: September - June on the 2nd Wednesday of
each month at the Brewster Ladies Library ~ 11:30am -1:00pm ~ Call
Sight Loss at (508) 394-3904 for more information.
SWIMMING: Brewster Green Pool ~ Fridays: 10:00am - 12:00pm.
This is ONLY available for Brewster’s senior (60+) residents. You
ALSO need to have your Brewster COA Swipe Card for admittance.
A donation of $1.00 per swim is recommended and this is done by an
Honor system. Stop by the COA on a monthly or quarterly basis to support
this activity!
TENNIS: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays ~ 9:00am – 11:00am
(Open play during winter months). Tennis courts are at 384 Underpass
Road. Please call the Brewster Recreation Department at
(508) 896-9430 for more information.
W.O.W.: (Wonderful Older Women): Tuesdays ~ 9:30am - 11:00am
This friendly group of women review current events, talk about movies &
books, give each other support & enjoy conversation. Stop by!
YOGA: Tuesday mornings from 9:00am - 10:30am.
$10 per class. Class uses breathing techniques as a foundation for
exploring gentle & safe stretching. Drop-ins welcome!
Page 9 September 2018
A Message from Charles Altieri, RN
Public Health Wellness Nurse, VNA of Cape Cod
Home visits will occur on Mondays.
Page 10 September 2018 Brewster, MA
Looking for Medical Equipment?
If you are currently looking for Medical Equipment, either for yourself or for someone you know, please contact
the COA to find out if we have anything that you could use.
We often receive donations of crutches, walkers, canes, shower/tub benches, commodes and wheelchairs that we
lend out, free of charge, as long as they are needed.
Give us a call at 508-896-2737. We may just have what you’re looking for!
Is it a Cold or an Allergy?
If you tend to get colds that develop suddenly and occur at the same time of the year or when you visit a
particular place, it’s possible that you’re actually experiencing allergies. Although colds and allergies share some
of the same symptoms, they have different causes and respond to different treatments.
While sneezing, congestion and a runny nose are typical with both ailments, other signs and symptoms can vary:
Cough - common with a cold, sometimes occurs with an allergy
General aches and pains - may occur with a cold but never with an allergy
Fatigue - sometimes occurs with a cold and sometimes with an allergy
Sore throat - common with a cold and sometimes with an allergy
Fever - rarely with a cold, never with an allergy
Another difference may be the duration of symptoms. A cold generally lasts three to ten days, although some last
several weeks. Allergy symptoms persist while you are exposed to a trigger (allergen), such as pollen or
pet dander. Seasonal allergies may last several weeks to months.
Both colds and allergies can usually be managed with a combination of self-care and non-prescription
medications.
Talk to your doctor about other treatment options or allergy testing if your symptoms are particularly bothersome
or if they persist despite treatment.
(Mayo Clinic - April 2018)
BE WELL! LIVE STRONG! LIVE LONG!
Charlie Altieri, RN, Public Health Nurse
Come Join Us for Lunch!
Simply call Kelly in our Brewster COA Nutrition Center at (508) 896-5070 by 11:00am the day before and she will
make sure your delicious, hot meal will be ready for you when you come the following day. The monthly menu is
available at the COA. Just ask us for one!
Join us at 10:30am on Wednesdays and Fridays to play BINGO before lunch!
Or, join us for some lively piano music on Wednesdays (after Bingo) and Thursdays,
provided by our wonderful volunteer pianists! Requested meal donation is $3.00.
Transportation can be arranged!
This program is sponsored by Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands.
You might enjoy the new friendships that you can make at the Senior Center!
Septbember2018 Page 11
Brewster, MA
Sightings from the Poop Deck
“No matter how far down you get on a tube of toothpaste, it seems like it ’s always good
for just one more squeeze.”
Things That Don’t Matter
Yesterday was the first really hot day of this year. Working in the yard became almost unbearable, especially in
the sun, but we managed to bring up all the patio furniture from the basement, bleached and hosed it off and it is
now squeaky clean. Doesn’t matter! First rainfall and we will be back to more bleach and scrubbing. It was a day
when sunblock was a necessity from sunup until sundown. The dermatologist will have a field day with his liquid
nitrogen the next time I see him. I don’t think I convinced him that these new aging spots were brought on by
sitting too close to a nightlight. Doesn’t matter!
Have you noticed the new flashing lights at all of the bike trail road crossings here in Brewster? Hopefully they
will reduce the number of accidents this summer if the cyclists take heed, stop, and walk their bikes across and
finally realize that they’re going to lose every time they don’t. Doesn’t matter! Ain’t gonna happen.
The defending champions of the Cape Cod Baseball League Brewster Whitecaps got off to an awful start this year.
Doesn’t matter! All they have to do is make it to the playoffs, get hot and bring home another championship like
they did last year. With four games left to the season, they have managed to overtake Orleans last night (July 29),
so we’ll keep our fingers crossed. Hope you were able to get out and support our “boys of summer.”
Oh, and if you were wondering who is credited with that toothpaste quote? Well that’s an original. I play this lit-
tle game just to see how many more squeezes I can get out of that tube once Joanie Carfora has a fresh new one
on the bathroom vanity ready to use. I used to think that toothpaste tubes had no end and went on infinitely, but
sometimes no matter how hard I squeeze, eventually I have to surrender when my fingers turn blue and nothing
comes out. Next tube please!
Last Tuesday was a five-star horoscope day for me so I hurried down to Luke’s to buy my $500 million dollar
lottery ticket...two of them. Didn’t matter! Some guy in San Jose was the lone winner. He won’t “need a hundred
down to buy a car” either. Next time I’ll put the four bucks toward a six-pack.
“Do you know the way to San Jose?”①
Peter R. Scheffer (“Life is Good!”) - ①“ In a week maybe two they’ll make you a star”①
poop deck, n., a deck above a ship’s main afterdeck
① Dionne Warwick
Mark your calendars!
Grandparents’ Day is Sunday, September 9th. We would like to wish all grandparents,
great-grandparents and great-great grandparents a very happy day in celebration of all that
you have done, and all that you continue to do!
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.
This agency and its programs are funded (in whole or in part) by a contract
from Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands, the MA Executive Office
of Elder Affairs, and the Federal Administration for Community Living.
Page 12 September2018 Brewster, MA Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID Permit #25 Orleans, MA 02653 DART - DIAL-A-RIDE TRANSPORTATION Service:
CCRTA provides a daily general public demand response service that is wheelchair-accessible, door-to-door, and ride-by-appointment. This service is
available to all Cape Cod residents and is available Monday through Saturday in all towns, with limited Sunday service. The DART does not run on
holidays. For available times in Brewster please call Customer Service toll-free at (800) 352-7155, Monday-Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm. OR CURRENT RESIDENT FRIENDS OF BREWSTER ELDERS 1673 MAIN STREET BREWSTER, MA 02631