Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Barre Senior Center/Council on Aging Please note: Our NEW mailing address is:
557 South Barre Road 40 West Street , Suite 433
P-978-355-5004—F-978-355-5021 Barre, Massachusetts 01005
Eileen Clarkson, HS-BCP, CDP, MS, MPA—Director August~ 2018
Notary Public, MCOA Certified Director, ServSafe Certified Volume 1, Issue 8
Email-coa@townofbarre.com Hours of Operation:
Monday –Friday 9:00—3:00
1
Information, Services and Resources Did you know….???...A third of Social Security
beneficiaries receive 90 percent of their income from
Social Security. Three of every five depend on the
Please check out our Web-Site Page benefit for at least half of their income. As an econom-
on the Town’s Web-Site. Our site ic safety net, Social Security provides critical support
is http://www.townofbarre.com then for seniors but it doesn’t fully cover basic living ex-
click on Services and scroll to penses and, in some regions, it doesn’t come close
Senior Services.
COA Wish List: Old towels (for To all those August Barre babies, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you.
cleaning), individually wrapped Enjoy your day...Come to the Center and Celebrate with us on
candy (chocolate is a favored the first Monday of each month at 12:00 for cake sponsored by
choice for folks), monetary do- Fallon Health NaviCare Program. There are 13 of you over the
nations age 80 and 3 over the age of 90. Congratulations!!
2
Information, Services and Resources Did you know…..?
Why is falls prevention important? FALLS ARE COM-
Did you know ...Each year, millions of older adults be- MON • Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal
come victims of financial exploitation. Protecting injuries for older Americans. 1 in 4 older adults falls
those who are most vulnerable—including those with each year. • Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated
cognitive impairments—is essential to ending the cy- in the emergency room for a fall. • Every 19 minutes, an
cle of elder abuse. older adult dies from a fall.
Created in 1939 as an amendment to the Social Se- FALLS CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES • Falls result
curity Act, the Representative Payee Program is one in injuries, such as hip fractures, broken bones, and
tool that can help. Representative Payees assist in- head injuries. In fact, more than 2.8 million older adults
dividuals with physical and mental impairments, as are treated in emergency departments annually be-
well as minor children, who cannot manage or direct cause of a fall, resulting in over 800,000 hospitaliza-
the management of their Social Security or Supple- tions.
FALLS ARE COSTLY • The average hospital cost for a
mental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
fall injury is over $30,000. Falls, with or without injury,
carry a heavy burden on quality of life. After a fall, many
older adults develop a fear of falling and, as a result,
Jokes: Height makes all the difference. Tall guy walks
limit their activities and social engagements. Fear of
around with a trench coat, he looks like Wyatt Earp or
something cool like that. I put one on, you know what I falling can result in further physical decline, depression,
look like? I look like the Hamburglar. social isolation, and feelings of helplessness.
FALLS IMPACT CAREGIVERS, TOO • Research has
She's always bragging about the dumbest stuff. The other shown that after a care recipient’s first fall, caregivers
day she was telling me, she's like, 'You know I can still fit report a significant increase in caregiver burden, fear of
in my wedding dress.' I was like, 'Oh my god, who cares, falling, and depression.
right?' I mean it is weird that she's the same size now as
she was when she was 8 months pregnant.
Food Pantry is open on
I had to fight this guy because he was call- the 2nd Wednesday of
ing me names from across the street,
right? Then he calls me 'chicken' -- screw each month at the Congre-
that, right? Instead of proving I'm not chick- gational Church. Bring you
en, I crossed the road to get to the other license and a bill to show
side. residence.
A nose walks into a bar and asks for a drink.
If you go to the 800ageinfo web-site, you can
The bartender says, "Sorry, I can't serve you. You're al-
ready off your face."
do an assess my needs where you would be
able to find tools that may help you with some
Are you caring for an older family member? Are you a grandparent (55+) car- basic needs or find resources that could help
ing for a grandchild? Or a relative (55+) caring for an individual with a disabil- you. 800ageinfor.com
ity? The Family Caregiver Support Program may be able to help you. Find out
more by calling (800) 243-4636 and asking to speak with a Caregiver Special-
The ancient practice targets physical and cognitive fundamentals
ist. Patricia Bethke Bing, 75, a retired community organizer in Knox-
An adult family member or other non-paid caregiver, age 18 and older, who is ville, Tenn., has been practicing Tai chi for approximately 20 years.
providing care to an individual who is 60 years of age or older, or She practices three days a week, for 40 minutes, with a group of
An adult family member or other non-paid caregiver, age 18 or older, who is people around her age.
providing care to an individual of any age who has Alzheimer’s disease or a “I decided to do Tai chi for the health benefits, both mental and
related dementia, or physical. I have no specific health issues, but I was looking to keep
A grandparent or other relative (not parents), age 55 years of age or older, my good health and improve my leg strength,” said Bing. “Tai chi
who is providing care to a child under the age of 18, or practice helps me to maintain my good balance, strength, and flexi-
A grandparent or other relative (including parents), age 55 years of age or bility.”
Tai chi, also known as Tai chi chuan, is a Chinese martial art per-
older, who is providing care to an adult with a disability who is 18 through 59
formed with slow, controlled postures and movements. Enthusiasts
years of age. Find out more and locate a Caregiver Specialist near you by practice it for defense or health, or both.
calling toll free (800) 243-4636. Tai Chi Is Helpful for Balance
3
Events at the Senior Center Council on Aging Take Note-sign-up is be-
Board Meeting is ginning for FLU, Pneu-
the First Wednes- monia, and Shingles
Come join us for coffee each day of every month, SHOTS. Walgreens
morning starting at 9.00 am August 1st, 2018. If (formally RITE-AID) will
A donation is asked. you would like to be providing these shots.
become an associ- Sign-up and pre-
ate member, let’s insurance screening is
Join our Tai Chi group and required. Sign-up at the
talk... We are al-
learn the relaxing benefits desk.
ways looking for
of this strengthening and
members. If you
endurance technique. Eve-
are looking for Line Dancing—
ry M-W-F at 1:00. Cost is
something to do for join us on Mon-
$5 for 3 classes. Slow gen-
a few hours a day’s from 11 to
tle exercise, standing or
month, we want 12. There is a do-
sitting. First class is
you! nation suggestion
FREE!!
of $3.00 per class or $20.00 for
9 classes.
On Tuesdays at 9:00, join the Art group for your
choice of medium, cost is $20.00 for 5 classes with Be sure to sign up for your pedicure or manicure at
supplies included. Explore your artistic
the desk. Or you can sign up for reflexology or a
talent and see what you can do, you may
hot rock therapy. Price list is at the desk. Check it
be surprised. Art class is starting back up
out.
on July 2nd.
Join us for hot dog and hamburger Try something relaxing... Senior
on Saturday, August 25th at 12:00. Chair based Yoga at the Barre
Sign-up is required by August 21st, Senior Center on Tuesdays and
pre-pay is also required. The cost is Thursdays 9:00-10:00am $5.00
$10.00 per ticket and includes ham- per class. Free class coupons
burger/hotdog, corn, a salad, condi- available.
ments, and build your own sundae.
Sorry no refunds.
Don’t forget, if you need
some help with your electronic
device, stop by and I can help
Join VNACare on August 29th at you. We also have some here
12.45 on a STROKE presentation. that we can teach you on if
Stroke-this power point presenta-
you want to learn how to use a
tion touches upon recognizing
laptop, tablet, or desktop,
the signs and symptoms of a
please let me know so that I
stroke. Also, discussed is the
can be here to help you. Call us
benefits of diet and exercise.
at 978-355-5004.
4
Events at the Senior Center Computer Lessons—Do
you what to know some-
Council On Aging
Board Members
thing about a computer, Richard (Dick) Whippee~Chair--
tablet, cell phone, or oth- 2019
What Is Reflexology? Patricia (Pat) Kowal~Vice Chair--
Reflexology is a non-medical therapy approach. It is er device, stop by and see 2019
acupressure applied to points on the hands, feet, the director to learn Patricia (Pat) Sirois~Secretary--
face, and ears. It helps to release toxins from the about these electronic 2019
body and improve circulation. devices. Andrea Goodwin~2020
Remember Reflexologists’ Don’t—Diagnose Beverly (Bev) Brooks~2018
medical conditions-Treat medical conditions Linda Payne—2020
Gloria Castriotta-2018
Prescribe medications-Claim or promise to cure Bernice Miller-2020
Perform Massage-Replace your primary care pro- Stanley (Stan) Miknaitis-2021
vider Associate Board Members
What are you waiting for? You deserve Diane Clark
This is for all levels of
relief and relaxation-treat yourself! Dede Charlton
learning so please stop Hardwick Council Members
Every third Monday, starting appointments at 9:00.
by and see what you can Gloria Judd
Call for a price list or stop by an pick one up. learn to do on your de- Alice Paradis
vice, or even if you do
Join us for pinochle every Wednesday not have one, you can If you would like to join the
starting 1:00. This is a fun game and learn on ours. Any board, please see the Director or
folks can help you learn it. Stop by to time—FREE call 978-355-5004
check it out.
Do you enjoy crafts? Do you Please, as a reminder, Jayne needs a two (2) day no-
like to have conversations? tice for lunch, for example, if you are ordering lunch
Stop by on Fridays at 10:00 for for Tuesday, you need to call 978-355-5027 the Friday
our Crafts and conversation before by 11:00 am in order for her to order the correct
group. Bring your craft item, amount of meals.
crocheting, knitting, or other Thank you...
item and sit and enjoy some
coffee and conversation while Food Pantry is Fallon Health will be here on
working on your craft. open on the 2nd August 29th from 10:00 to
Wednesday of each 12:00 for any questions you
month at the Con- may have regarding your
gregational Church. insurance.
Bring you license Brian is here
and a bill to show to help you,
residence. stop by.
5
PLEASE TAKE A FEW MINUTES TO COMPLETE THE SURVEY AND RETURN TO SENIOR CENTER
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
1. Are you aware of the types of programs/activities/events that are offered at the center? Yes/no
2. Have you ever attended an any programs/activities/events at the center? Yes/no
3. If no why/why not-
_____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
4. Do you know what a senior center does/does not do? Yes No
5. If you do not attend the center, how can we improve things to have you visit us?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
6. If not, what types of programs/activities/events would interest you? Please name them________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
7. If we offered the programs/activities/events you suggested above, would you attend them? Yes/no
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
If no, why/why not-
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
8. Did you know that we can help you this all types of applications/forms/provide recourses and oth-
er information you may need for yourself or a loved one? YES/NO
9. Suggestions/thoughts/ideas/other:
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
Did you know….???...Last month was a slow month A federal judge blocked Kentucky’s Medicaid work require-
for us. We only had a total of 809 sign-ins with 132 ments on Friday, ruling that the Trump administration did
not adequately consider before approving the state’s pro-
total amount of folks coming into the center for the
posal whether work requirements would violate the pro-
month of June. Our total for last fascial year was gram’s purpose of providing health care to the most vulner-
something...we had 9009 total event signings, we able Americans.
had 1033 folks come through the doors, and 6183 The court decision is at least a temporary blow to the ambi-
total swipes. And over 9667 hours of volunteerism. If tious plans of Republican-led states and the Trump admin-
we paid these folks, that would be over $106,000 in istration to remake the program.
pay at $11/per hour. Thank you to all of our volun- The ruling came in a lawsuit involving Kentucky, one of the
teers, you are truly appreciated. first states to have its proposal requiring certain Medicaid
recipients to work (or else lose their benefits) approved by
the Trump administration. District court Judge James
What Does MassOptions Do? Boasberg, an Obama appointee, came down in favor of the
We empower you to make informed choices by making access to plaintiffs, led by the National Health Law Program and Ken-
community services and supports easier. tucky Equal Justice Center, who sought to block the work
Trained specialists from MassOptions give you fast, personalized
attention. All you need to do is tell them about yourself or what
requirements from taking effect on July 1 as planned.
you need to live independently. You can even stay on the line The federal government is obligated under federal law to
while they connect you with an appropriate community resource or consider whether a Medicaid proposal advances the pro-
organization. You can speak to a specialist at MassOp- gram’s objectives, the judge wrote, and the Trump admin-
tions, Monday - Friday from 9am to 5pm, call us toll-free at 1- istration failed to meet that standard before approving Ken-
844-422-6277, or use the online chat feature. tucky’s plan.
6
Information, Resources, and Other
7
2018 AUGUST
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
AUGUST 6 7 8 9 10
9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool 9.00--Pool 9.00-Pool
9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Computer 9.00-Computer
11.00-Line Dancing 9:00-Art 9.00-Computer 9.00-Yoga ($5) 10.00-Crafts and Con-
11.45-Lunch-Ranch 9.00-Computer 9.00-Quilting Group 10.15 Bingo versation
Chicken 9.00-B/P Clinic FREE 9.00-SHINE-by Appointment 11.45-Lunch-Spaghetti/ 11.45-Lunch-Chciken
1:00 Tai Chi ($5) 9:00-Yoga ($5) 9.30-Chair Aerobics Meatballs Picatta
10.15-Bingo 10.30-Meditation 12.30-Scat 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
11.00-REP Berthiaume 11.45-Lunch-Veggie
11.45-Lunch-Beef w/ Cheese Bake
Onions/Peppers 1.00-COA Board Meeting
1.00-Scat-Cribbage 1.00-Pinochle
1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
13 14 15 16 17
9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool
9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour
11.00-Line Dancing 9:00-Art 9.00-Quilting Group 9.00-Computer 9.00-Computer
11.45-Lunch-Roast Beef 9.00-Computer 10.30-Meditation 9.00-Yoga ($5) 10.00-Crafts and Con-
SW 9:00-Yoga ($5) 11.45-Lunch-Meatloaf w/ 10.15 Bingo versation
1:00 Tai Chi ($5) 10.15-Bingo gravy 11.45-Lunch-Chickin Pot 11.45-Lunch-Mac/
11.45-Lunch-Greek Chick- 1.00-Pinochle Pie Cheese
en 1.00-Tai Chi ($5) 12.30-Scat 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
1.00-Scat-Cribbage 12.30-Movie-Al Clark Tour
20 21 22 23 24
9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool
9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour
9.00-Pedi/Manicure, 9:00-Art 9.00-Quilting Group 9.30-DA Early Presentation 9.00-Computer
Reflexology-by appointment 9.00-Computer 9.30—Chair Aerobics on Senior Safety 10.00-Crafts and Con-
9.00-Computer 9:00-Yoga ($5) 10.30-Meditation 9.00-Computer versation
11.00-Line Dancing 10.15-Bingo 11.45-Lunch-Chicken Mila- 9.00-Yoga ($5) 11.45-Lunch-Haddock
11.45-Lunch-Beef Stew 11.45-Lunch-Cranberry no 10.15 Bingo w/dill sauce
1:00 Tai Chi ($5) Chick/salad 1.00-Pinochle 11.45-Lunch-Salisbury 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
2.00-Wii 1.00-Scat-Cribbage 1.00-Tai Chi ($5) Steak
12.30-Scat Cookout Tomorrow-sign
up at the desk.
27 28 29 30 31
9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool
9.00-Coffee Hour 9:00-Art 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour
9.00-Computer 9.00-Computer 9.00-Quilting Group 9.00-Yoga ($5) 9.00-Computer
11.00-Line Dancing 9:00-Yoga ($5) 9.00-Computer 10.15 Bingo 10.00-Crafts and Con-
11.45-Lunch-Jambalaya 10.15-Bingo 10.00-Fallon Insurance versation
11.45-Lunch-BBQ Chicken
1:00 Tai Chi ($5) 11.45-Lunch-Meatballs w/ 10.30-Meditation 11.45-Lunch-Marinated
2.00-Wii Onion Gravy 11.45-Lunch-Fish w/ 1.00-Scat Pork Loin
1.00-Scat-Cribbage Crumb topping 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
12.45-STROKE presenta-
tion
1.00-Pinochle
1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
SEPTEMBER 3 4 5 6 7
9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool
9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour
9:00-Art 9.00-Quilting Group 9.00-Computer 9.00-Computer
9.00-Computer 10.30-Meditation 9.00-Yoga ($5) 10.00-Crafts and Con-
9:00-Yoga ($5) 11.45-Lunch- 10.15 Bingo versation
10.15-Bingo 1.00-Pinochle 11.45-Lunch- 11.45-Lunch-
11.45-Lunch- 1.00-Tai Chi ($5) 12.30-Scat 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
1.00-Scat-Cribbage