HomeMy Public PortalAboutNovember 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
November 2018
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.
Flu Clinic
Thursday, November 8 10:00am - 12:00pm
Brewster Baptist Church, 1848 Main Street
This clinic is for any Brewster resident 18 or older.
Pre-registration is available at the Brewster COA,
1673 Main Street. Just stop by our office.
To register by phone, please have your insurance
card ready and contact us at 508-896-2737.
Rides to the clinic can be provided. Just let the COA
know when you sign up.
Please do not contact the Church!
November Holiday Closings
The Brewster COA will be closed on
Monday, November 12 in honor of Veterans Day.
Thank you to all of you who have served and to all
of those who are still in the service.
We will also be closed on Thursday and Friday,
November 22 and November 23, for the
Thanksgiving holiday. We wish all of you a
wonderful Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving Meal Food Distribution
Saturday, November 17, 2018
Our annual Thanksgiving “free turkey” distribution
method has changed. This year, the COA has only a
limited number of turkeys “with all the trimmings”
available.
If you are unable to afford to purchase a turkey and
assorted side dishes, but would like to prepare and share
the holiday meal with friends and/or loved ones,
we would be happy to deliver a frozen bird and all the
“fixins” to your home. These holiday food packs have been
generously donated through Lower Cape Outreach
Council.
Distribution will be on the morning of Saturday,
November 17. You must be at home to receive this
delivery, so plan ahead. Contact the COA at 508-896-2737
to get your name on the list. Please consider your friends
and neighbors who are truly in need before you make a
request.
November is
National Memory Screening Month!
FREE, Confidential Memory Screenings
Friday, November 2
1:00pm – 3:00pm
Brewster Council on Aging
1673 Main Street, Brewster
(508) 896-2737
We are happy to announce that the Alzheimer’s
Family Support Center is offering free, 30-minute
memory screenings here at the COA. These
screenings are not diagnostic but may indicate
whether participants should see a doctor for
further testing. Screenings are open to the public.
Please call the Brewster Council on Aging at
508-896-2737 to make an appointment.
The Alzheimer’s Family Support Center, a 501(c)3
nonprofit, provides free comprehensive support
services for families and individuals living with
Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.
For more information, or if you have an urgent
need for a screening, please call (508) 896-5170 or
email support@capecodalz.org.
Reminder:
Daylight Savings time ends on
Sunday, November 4. Remember to
set your clocks back one hour, and
don’t forget to check those batteries in
your smoke detectors!
Page 2 November 2018 Brewster, MA
Exercise your Options!
The Brewster Council on Aging offers these
exercise and wellness classes to help you have a
healthy, active and enjoyable life!
All classes are at the Brewster COA, 1673 Main
Street. 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 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!
Balancing Act Wednesdays
9:30am - 10:15am
Better Balance through Body Awareness and
Fun! This class explores a number of ways to
build more awareness of our bodies in order to establish
good balance. There is a combination of seated and
standing exercises, utilizing our chairs. Good posture
while standing, as well as walking and moving, is
emphasized. There will be some exercises to help build
a stronger body core and sense of being centered in our
bodies. Easy movement games help you build
confidence physically from the inside out. Come join us
for building good balance and having fun with it at the
same time! No need to call the COA to register.
Cost is $2.00 per class and drop-ins are welcome! Our
instructor is Carol Marcy. Why not give it a try!
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.
Meditation Class Thursdays
10:00am - 11:00am
Is your world moving too fast? Do you sometimes wish
you could stop, take a deep breath and stay still for a
short period of time? This meditation class focuses on
building internal awareness with an orientation toward
the heart and breath. Our instructor, Carol Marcy, will
also talk about the many benefits of meditation, as well
as some of the research, and use a guided meditation
format. No need to call the COA to register.
Cost is $2.00 per class and drop-ins are welcome!
Come and relax!
Gentle Flow Yoga Class with Karen Corcoran
Mondays 2:30pm - 3:45pm
Eddy School, 2298 Main Street, Brewster
In collaboration with the Brewster Recreation Dept., we will be offering a new Gentle Flow Yoga Class on
Mondays at 2:30pm at the Eddy School. Join this Hatha-based yoga class suitable for all levels; classes will be
geared to attendees. Variety from week to week and season to season ensures a sustainable practice – one that
nourishes all aspects of being: mental, emotional and spiritual, as well as physical. Come learn “tools you can
use” in daily life to calm and energize the mind while strengthening and lengthening the body and renewing
the spirit.
Karen is certified in Hatha, Kundalini and Yin and has been teaching on Cape Cod for over 2 years. Drawing
from these yogic traditions keeps classes fresh, interesting and balanced.
This will be an ongoing class and the Recreation Department will sell a 5-class card at $10/class.
Drop-in rate is $12.00 per class. Please bring a mat.
Page 3 November 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
Computer Help
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Thursdays: 9:00am - 12:00pm
(No appointments on Nov. 22 due to Thanksgiving)
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!
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 November:
1, 8, 15, 29
Come join us for a hot cup of coffee and some lively
conversation on these cool, autumn days. We’re always
looking for new members. We’re also looking for Guest
Speakers, so if you’ve got a topic of interest that you’d
like to present, just let us know!
Computer Users Group
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Thursdays: 1:00pm - 2:30pm
(No class on Nov. 22 due to Thanksgiving)
Are you interested in computer technology? Then you
are invited to join this friendly group to learn about all
things tech! Each week’s topics are solicited from
program attendees, and covered in subsequent
meetings. The skill level is from beginner to
intermediate. All questions are welcome and there’s no
need to sign up. Just come and enjoy the fun!
Come and learn something new!
Mobile Dental Hygiene Service
Mobile Dental Hygiene Services offers friendly,
convenient, and affordable preventative oral health
care at the Brewster Council on Aging! The following
services are FREE to eligible individuals with
Medicaid/MassHealth: cleanings, screenings, oral
cancer exams, fluoride treatments, denture care,
education, 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’s
date will be Wednesday, November 28th.
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
It’s Medicare’s Open Enrollment Time!
We’re offering appointments here at the COA on
Tuesdays and Thursdays through December 6th.
See the article on page 7 of this newsletter and don’t
delay! Make your appointment soon!
Hearing Screenings
8:30am – 10:30am
Thursday, November 15
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Advanced Audiology Associates offers FREE screenings
here at the Brewster Council on Aging.
These screenings are by appointment only and last
around 15 minutes. They will include hearing
screenings, ear inspections and hearing aid checks.
Please call the COA at 508-896-2737 to set an
appointment for this valuable service.
Christmas Ornaments
Can you think of 1 or 2 words that best describes your
interest in our Brewster Senior Center? Would you
help us decorate the Senior Center by coloring an
ornament and writing that word(s) on the ornament?
We will be setting up a small Christmas tree early this
month in the 1st floor large room for you to do just that.
We hope you enjoy this activity, and thanks for helping
us decorate our tree!
November Program Notes
Check out the exciting and informative
programs and events we’ve got planned
for you this month! All programs take place
at the Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Food to Encourage
Thursday, November 8 9:45am - 11:30am
(No program on November 22nd due to
Thanksgiving)
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, is available. 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!
Everything you need to know about
pre-arranging Funeral Services,
but were afraid to ask!
Monday, November 5 1:00pm
Christine Damery, from Doane, Beal and Ames/
Nickerson Funeral Home, will be here to discuss the
importance of pre-planning the one event we do not
like to think of – or sometimes even talk about: our
final arrangements. Help your family know what your
wishes are and make this easier for them. Christine will
also be able to answer any questions you might have.
This is not a subject most of us like to discuss, but it is a
very important one for those we leave behind.
Refreshments will be served. Don’t be afraid to come
and listen to what she has to say!
Please call the Brewster COA at 896-2737 to register
for this very important program.
Crafts with Megan
Thursday, November 15
10:30am - 12:30pm
Free! You’ll be creating an easy, fun new craft each
month. All supplies are included. Meet new friends
and indulge your creative side while our instructor,
Megan, offers guidance in all projects.
This month’s project will be a rustic candle
votive with twine, faux maple leaves and twigs!
Please contact the COA by Friday, November 9th
to let us know you are interested: 508-896-2737
Trip to the Bourne National Cemetery
Friday, November 16
12:30pm - 3:30pm
If you are interested in taking a ride to the Bourne
National Cemetery to visit your loved one’s grave,
please call the COA at 508-896-2737. We are able to
take 8 people on this special trip. When you call
us to sign up, please give us the name of the loved one
that you would like to visit. We will make sure everyone
has a chance to stop by their loved one’s resting place.
Why not join us for lunch at the COA beforehand (lunch
is served at 11:30am)? Just let us know when you
reserve your seat that you’d like to join us for lunch as
well. Our bus will be leaving the COA at 12:30pm.
Color Me Creative!
Monday, November 19 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 refreshments will be served! Call
the COA at 508-896-2737 to sign up!
Monthly General Grief Support Group
Wednesday, November 21 2:30 - 3:45 pm
Have you lost a loved one? It might be difficult
when it seems that everyone else is happy but you are
still grieving. Hope Hospice hosts a support group
here at our senior center every month.
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.
Orleans Bowling Center Senior Discount!
Orleans Bowling Center, 191 Route 6A, will be giving us
a senior discount every Wednesday during the
off-season from 1:00pm - 4:00pm. Cost is $1.00 per
senior for shoes, and $3.00 per senior per game. At
4:00pm the restaurant opens, so this makes for a fun
outing with your friends while getting a little exercise!
Page 4 November 2018 Brewster, MA
Property Tax Exemption Information
You may qualify for a substantial Real Estate Tax
Exemption. Please contact the Outreach office at the
Brewster COA at 508-896-2737.
Page 5 November 2018
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
1
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Open Enrollment
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer Users
Group
2:00pm BMCC
2
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Memory
Screenings
5
9:45am Keep Movin’!
1:00pm Seminar:
Pre-arranging Funeral
Services
6
9:00am Yoga
9:00am Open
Enrollment
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm Bridge
2:30pm Gentle Flow
Yoga/Eddy School
7
8:45am Line Dancing
9:30am Balancing Act
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
8
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Open Enrollment
9:45am Food to
Encourage
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer Users
2:00pm BMCC
9
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
12
(The COA is closed)
13
9:00am Yoga
9:00am Open
Enrollment
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm Bridge
2:30pm Gentle Flow
Yoga/Eddy School
14
8:45am Line Dancing
9:00am Pedicare
9:30am Balancing Act
10:30am BINGO
11:00am Mobile Pantry
(Frederick Ct.)
11:00am Sight Loss/BLL
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
15
8:00am Pet Grooming
8:30am Hearing
Screenings
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Open Enrollment
10:00am Meditation
10:30am Crafts with
Megan
1:00pm Financial
Planning
1:00pm Computer Users
2:00pm BMCC
16
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:00am Swimming
at Brewster Green
10:30am BINGO
11:00am
Rep. Tim Whelan
12:30pm Trip:
Bourne National
Cemetery
19
9:45am Keep Movin’!
1:00pm Color Me
Creative!
20
9:00am Yoga
9:00am Open
Enrollment
9:30am W.O.W.
11:00am Massage with
Sandra
1:00pm Bridge
2:30pm Gentle Flow
Yoga/Eddy School
21
8:45am Line Dancing
9:30am Balancing Act
10:30am BINGO
10:30am Massage with
Sandra
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Quilters
2:30pm Grief Support
Group
22
(The COA is closed)
23
Day after Thanksgiving
The COA is closed
and there will be
No Swimming at
Brewster Green Resort
today.
26
9:45am Keep Movin’!
Decorate the COA
for the holidays this
Week!
27
9:00am Yoga
9:00am Open
Enrollment
9:30am W.O.W.
10:00am BP/Glucose
Testing & Health/BLL
1:00pm Bridge
2:30pm Gentle Flow
Yoga/Eddy School
28
8:45am Line Dancing
9:00am Mobile Dental
Hygiene Service
9:30am Balancing Act
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
29
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
9:00am Open Enrollment
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer Users
2:00pm BMCC
30
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.
November 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, November 14th.
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…Don’t Delay - Medicare Open Enrollment is going on now!
Medicare’s Part C (Medicare Advantage Plan) and Part D (Prescription Drug Plan) Annual
Open Enrollment begins is going on now through December 7th. Please make sure you
review your 2019 Medicare options during this period.
During the Annual Open Enrollment (October 15 - December 7), you will have a chance
to CHANGE your plan. This change will take effect January 1, 2019. SHINE Counselors can
help you understand your plan’s changes, screen you for assistance programs and discuss
other options you may have. If you do not change your plan during this period you may have
to stay with your existing plan for another whole year. (Note: the open enrollment may not
affect those with retiree coverage).
Don’t wait until it’s too late - appointments fill up fast!
Call the Brewster COA at 508-896-2737 and make an appointment with a SHINE
counselor for this year’s open enrollment. Appointments will be held right here at the COA!
Make sure you bring your Medicare card, as well as a list (or bottles) of your current
medications (including dosages) to the appointment. This service is FREE!
Senior Real Estate Tax Abatement Program
This program matches municipal volunteer opportunities in the Town of Brewster with
eligible citizens who are qualified and able to volunteer their services in exchange for a
reduction in their real estate property tax bill. Program participants may work in a variety
of jobs for the Town. In exchange for volunteer services, the Town will rebate your annual
real estate property tax bill in the amount of $500.00* (* minus mandatory deductions).
You need to be sixty (60) years old or older and complete the hours of volunteer service by
September 1, 2019. For the 2019 program, the Town has twenty (20) available positions
and priority will be given to those residents whose income is less than $50,201 if single, or
$57,381 if married.
Applications for the 2019 program will be available at Town Hall and the
Council on Aging on November 1, 2018 and are due on December 15, 2018.
Town Meeting is on Monday, December 3rd
7:00pm at the Stony Brook School
The COA is offering rides! Just give us a call at 508-896-2737. We’ll see you there!
Advertising
Page 8 November 2018
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 – 12:00pm
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: November dates: 1, 8, 15, 29
COMPUTER USERS GROUP: Thursdays ~ 1:00pm - 2:30pm
The first part of the meeting is usually for questions and answers, followed
by instructions on topics solicited from program participants. Skill level
Is from beginner to intermediate. Just drop in!
PLEASE NOTE: November dates: 1, 8, 15, 29
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 November 28.
FINANCIAL PLANNING: 3rd Thursday ~ 1:00pm.
By appointment only. A knowledgeable volunteer answers questions
and provides information concerning Long Term Care and Financial
Planning. Call (508) 896-2737
HEARING SCREENINGS: 3rd Thursday ~ 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.
PLEASE NOTE: No appointments at the COA in November.
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.
PLEASE NOTE: This month’s date is Wednesday, November 14th.
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 Brewster Rec. Dept.: 508-896-9430
POKER: Wednesdays ~ 12:30pm - 3:45pm
PLEASE NOTE: Call the COA for information as to dates of play.
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.
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: Monday - Friday (during school session)
6:30am - 7:15am and 3:00pm - 5:00pm. Visit the Brewster Rec. Office at
Eddy Elementary School to register! Program is at Stony Brook Elem.
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!
PLEASE NOTE: OPEN ENROLLMENT appointments are going on
now at the COA. Call now to schedule yours: 508-896-2737
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 November 2018
A Message from Charles Altieri, RN
Public Health Wellness Nurse, VNA of Cape Cod
Home visits will occur on Mondays.
Page 10 November 2018 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!
Senior Striders
The Senior Striders Walking Program continues throughout the school year! Seniors are able to walk laps at the
Stony Brook Elementary School, both before and after school. Due to new security measures, all participants will
need to be CORI-checked and have a name badge that they will wear while walking. This program is FREE, but
you must register with the Brewster Recreation Department.
Walking hours are 6:30am - 7:15am and 3:00pm - 5:00pm (during school session).
Walk in comfort at Stony Brook! To register for this great program, please visit the Brewster Recreation
Department office in-person, located at the Eddy Elementary School, 2298 Main Street.
Go4Life Program Channel 18 7:00am
Go4Life, a simple in-home 60-minute exercise program developed by the National Council on Aging, will air on
local TV Channel 18 at 7:00am each morning. Free resources, including a CD and Exercise Guide, can be ordered
online at: go4lifenia.nih.gov. Exercise and remain active this winter by tuning in!
Flu Season! When to seek care?
Your first winter illness came on fairly suddenly, with a fever and a slight sore throat. You had your flu shot but
wonder if this could be the flu. Should you seek medical care?
For older adults and those with chronic medical conditions, the best advice is to call your doctor’s office and to be
seen for an appointment if you are asked to come in.
Sometimes, symptoms clearly suggest whether you’re dealing with viral influenza (flu) or another illness, such as
a common cold. Symptoms of the flu can vary in atypical ways, particularly in older adults. In addition, adults 65
and older are at high risk of complications with influenza, such as bacterial pneumonia.
Taking action when dealing with the flu involves several key steps:
●Getting the flu vaccine each year: this reduces the risk of flu infections and lessens the severity of illnesses if
you get the flu. Vaccine effectiveness varies from year to year, but it’s still the single best protective measure
available.
●Practicing good hand hygiene; clean your hands frequently using an alcohol-based hand-sanitizer or soap and
water. Avoid large crowds and close contact with people who are sick.
●Contact your doctor as soon as you suspect that you have the flu; your doctor can determine if you have the
flu and if you need an antiviral drug. Your doctor may order a simple test that detects flu viruses. These
antivirals include Tamiflu, and Relenza, which are prescribed to prevent further complications. They can
reduce the flu’s severity. It is best to take them within 48 hours of the start of the illness. However, studies
have shown the benefits can extend beyond the 48-hour window, especially in people at high risk.
Be alert to complications; contact your doctor if symptoms become more severe, improve and then become worse,
or if you have unusual symptoms such as severe sore throat, chest pain, confused thinking, dizziness,
lightheadedness or breathing difficulty.
Mayo Clinic, October 2018
BE WELL! LIVE STRONG! LIVE LONG!
Charlie Altieri, RN, Public Health Nurse
November2018 Page 11
Brewster, MA
Sightings from the Poop Deck
“A kiss on the hand might be quite continental, but diamonds are a girl’s best friend.”
September is always a special month in the Carfora/Scheffer household; special because it is the month when
Joan and I were married and this year was particularly important, since the traditional gift for this anniversary
is…..wait for it….DIAMONDS!! Understand that Joanie Carfora and I are fairly modest when it
comes to wearing jewelry and, if you ever noticed, the only gold I wear is my wedding band.
Soooo, I was particularly surprised when JC came to me and said that since this year was such an important
milestone, the only thing she wanted was a diamond tennis bracelet. I looked at her waiting for a wink, or some
clue indicating that she was kidding, but it never came and who am I to argue? Joan has never asked for jewelry.
I’m very accommodating in matters such as this and said, “Let’s go, we have plenty of choices; Hannoush and
Kay’s at the mall, Chatham Jewelers, etc.” Her reply? “I was thinking of Jared's!”
Off we went to the mall just to get an idea of what diamond tennis bracelets looked like, for my benefit. Believe it
or not I did not really care how much these things were worth, nor was I overly concerned about the cost. You
may not believe that, but if you factor in all those years she has put up with me, and for those of you who know me
well, in your own mind you will say, “She earned it!”
The next time you see Joanie Carfora and she is wearing her new bracelet, you can make a big fuss over it, or you
can think, “Wow, there is not really much to a diamond tennis bracelet” and truthfully, there really isn’t.
Remember, I did not build this, I only paid for it. What I really would appreciate, after you see the bracelet, is
for you to listen carefully to see if you hear a voice whispering in your ear saying, “He went to Jared’s!”
Peter R. Scheffer (“Life is Good!”) - Remember our veterans!! and Happy Thanksgiving!
poop deck, n., a deck above a ship’s main afterdeck
Pre-Holiday Line Dance Showcase
Monday, December 3rd
1:00pm - 1:30pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
On Monday, December 3rd from 1:00 – 1:30 pm, please join us at Brewster COA for a festive, upbeat line dance
showcase by students of Cape Sands Ballroom. The dancers will share their love of dance with you as they move
and groove to tunes from the 50’s through today including a few holiday selections. At the end of the showcase, if
you’d like to try out a few steps yourself, Karen Shackleford of Cape Sands Ballroom will offer a free, no obligation
mini-lesson in line dancing so you can give it a whirl!
We’ll be serving some light refreshments as well. In fact, perhaps you might want to come for lunch that day
(11:30am) and stay for the show! Be sure to give the COA a call at 508-896-2737 to reserve your seat and let us
know your lunch plans. Hope to see you there!
Holiday Decoration Party!
If you would like to help Denise decorate our senior center for the holidays,
we will start the week of November 26th. Please call her at 508-896-2737!
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 November2018 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