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Non-Profit Org.U.S. POSTAGEPAIDPermit No. 115Pittsfield, MA 01201

Volume 33, Number 4 • April 2016 • The monthly newspaper for Berkshire County seniors • Free

Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. • Proudly promoting Elder Independence since 1974 •

Berkshire Senior

InSide

Elder Services Update ....... 2For Your Information .....3, 12Your Dollars .......................4, 5Caregivers/Alzheimer's .....6,7

Elder Services ..................8-11 SHINE .................................13Our Community ................14Nutrition .............................16

MEDITATION PAGE 12

PROTECT PAGE 4

Like Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc.

What is meditation?Meditation is a mind and

body practice that has a long history of use for increasing calmness and physical relax-ation, improving psychologi-cal balance, coping with ill-ness, and enhancing overall health and well-being. Mind and body practices focus on the interactions among the brain, mind, body, and behavior.

There are many types of meditation, but most have four elements in common: a quiet location with as few distractions as possible; a specific, comfortable posture (sitting, lying down, walk-ing, or in other positions); a focus of attention (a specially

chosen word or set of words, an object, or the sensations of the breath); and an open attitude (letting distractions come and go naturally with-out judging them).Meditation effectiveness

Many studies have inves-tigated meditation for differ-ent conditions. Research sug-gests that practicing medita-tion may reduce blood pres-sure, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression, insomnia, and the incidence, dura-tion, and severity of acute respiratory illnesses (such as influenza). Evidence about its effectiveness for pain and as a smoking-cessation treatment is uncertain.

A recent article in the Journal of the American Medical Association Medical association (JAMA), showed results that mindfulness-based interventions may help sleep problems among older adults in the short term, and this effect appears to carry

There was a time when staying away from crimi-nals meant keeping away from bad streets, not walk-ing alone, and locking your doors. Today, criminal activ-ity means cyber-attacks right in your home, under your nose! According to CNN Money, nearly one million new threats were released ev-ery day in 2014. With a sta-tistic like that, some say that you have either been hacked, or you don’t yet know that you have been hacked.

But before you panic and go off the grid, there are some things you can do to help stay safe and aware.

One kind of scam is done via phone calling. The IRS is calling about your overdue bill; the bank needs to verify

your account information; and one of the worst phone scams, “Hi Grandma, do you know who this is?” In this case a “grandchild” has been arrested in another county and needs bail money. Scam-mers can also “spoof” phone numbers, i.e., they make it appear that they’re calling from legitimate places. In fact they can spoof your own number to make it like you or your spouse is calling.

To avoid being scammed by phone, there are a few things you can do. 1) Take your time — it is best to think through the situation and not be rushed into anything. 2) Ask Questions — it’s ok to question their authority on what they are asking for. 3) Verify the information —

ask them to send a request in writing; ask for their name and department; or just hang up and call the actual number of the company to verify the request. 4) Do not give away any financial information — no one should be asking for your bank account or social security numbers. Always call your financial institution directly when an issue arises.

We all know that hav-ing a computer with internet capability is a liability of its own. Always have a good anti-virus software loaded (updated regularly) on your computer as well as being constantly aware of your surroundings. Think of surf-ing the internet like taking a trip to a city. There are good

Protect yourself from computer and phone scams

By Marianne Hall

Meditation, its safety and effectiveness

BEWAREApril is National

Volunteer Appreciation

Month

See pages 8 & 9

Don't panic and go off the grid, there are things you can do to help stay safe and aware.

April 2016

Elder Services UpdateElder Services Update

John Lutz is the Executive Director of Elder Services.

Editor and Production: Karen Shreeft er

Editorial Board: Bea Cowlin, Bonny DiTomasso, Laura Feakes, and John Lutz

Advertising Sales: Bob O'Connor

1-800-544-5242 or 499-0524

Berkshire Senior is published monthly by Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc., 877 South Street, Suite 4E, Pittsfi eld, MA 01201, 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242, e-mail: [email protected] or on the internet at www.esbci.org.

NOTICEElder Services sells advertising to defray costs. Inclusion of advertisers in no way implies that Elder Services endorses any product or service.

Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of Elder Services. For medical, fi nancial or other advice, seek a qualifi ed professional in the appropriate fi eld.

Elder Services and its programs are funded, in part, by the Massachusetts Executive Offi ce of Elder Aff airs.

State and federal funds provided to Elder Services are limited. Elder Services welcomes charitable donations to help meet the growing needs of Berkshire seniors, and gratefully acknowledges all donations.

Elder Servicesof Berkshire County, Inc.

Berkshire SeniorBerkshire County State Legislators

It's important to keep your legislators in-formed about what is important to you. If you have questions or comments that you want to share with your Berkshire representa-tives, you can contact them using the infor-mation below:

• Rep. Gailanne Cariddi (1st District): 1-617-722-2370 & [email protected]

• Rep. Paul W. Mark (2nd District) 1-617-722-2013 & [email protected]

• Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier (3rd District) 1-617-722-2240 & [email protected]

• Rep. Smitty Pignatelli (4th District) 1-617-722-2017 & [email protected]

• Senator Benjamin Downing, 1-617-722-1625 & 442-4008

[email protected]

What People say about Elder Services' Programs, Volunteers & Staff

"Berkshire Senior" Articles Saved Reader $600 in Taxes

I’d like to share a wonderful com-ment a gentleman recently made on the phone at the Reception desk. He was thrilled because

he saved $600 on his taxes with information he learned from an article in the "Berkshire Senior"!

Thank You Elder ServicesFrom a daughter after her mom’s passing, “We so appreciate all the

kindness and help our family received from Elder Services.”

Client Services' Coordinator Bill Marsh Helped My Mom Stay in Her Home

From a son after mom’s passing, “Bill Marsh, our case manager, was wonderful. He was a big help and support in keeping mom at home.”

Advocacy Helped My Dad Restore Benefits the Same DayFrom a family member, “Thank you for your assistance, advocacy and guidance for Dad. His benefits were re-stored the same day.”

It’s spring and time to celebrate Elder Services’ volunteers

By John LutzSpring is here! Though, given

the winter we had this year, it may seem like the arrival of the new sea-son is a little less dramatic and not as essential for continued sanity as other winters.

April is National Volunteer Ap-preciation Month around the country, and also here in Berkshire County.

Elder Services’ volunteers are an essential part of the work that we do every day. Below is a list of the many ways these volunteers make a difference in people’s lives.

Volunteers deliver Elder Ser-vices’ Meal on Wheels (MOW) to those who don’t have safe access to a hot, nutritious meal, or who are isolated in their community. Volunteers deliver-ing MOWs venture out in all types of weather to ensure that this vulnerable population is provided with essential nutrition and can enjoy social interaction with a friendly face. Volunteers also prepare and serve meals to seniors living in their community, and take pleasure in sharing a meal and good times with others at a congregate dining site at a local Council on Aging.

Volunteers offer free counseling on Medicare and other health insurance options to Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers th rough Elder Services’ SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) program. This counseling provides the tools and information that often results in money saving health insurance options.

Volunteer Benefits Counselors assist seniors and their families in un-derstanding and appreciating the array of benefits and programs available to them during critical times when significant decisions need to be made.

Through Elder Services’ Money Management Program, volunteers as-sist elders with balancing their checkbooks and budgeting to make sure they

have sufficient funds available to continue to live in their own homes. Money Management volunteers double check that seniors can meet their needs so they can “age in place” with a good quality of life.

Volunteers provide rides to doctor’s appointments for those who can no longer drive and don’t have access to reliable transportation. Volunteers also take elders grocery shopping so they can choose the things they like. Other volunteers just come by to “check in” on elders who want a little compan-ionship.

Volunteers are a vital part of the fabric of Elder Services of Berkshire County and allow our agency to positively impact thousands of elders, their families, caregivers, and loved ones every year.

For all of that, we can only say with heartfelt appreciation for all that you do and the impact you have, “Thank You.”

Questions About Services for Seniors?

Call Elder Services1-800-544-5242 or 499-0524

April 2016 Elder Services' Berkshire Senior

For Your Information

Joel A. LessManaged Properties, Inc.

An affordable supportive and enriched living environment that offers:• One & two bedroom apartments • Three bedroom townhouses designed for families• Beautiful, tranquil setting with river views• Spacious community room, guest speakers & on-going social activities• On-site social service coordinator & resource for all tenants• Rent based on 30% of your income including: on-site maintenance; heat & hot water; secure building; laundry facilities, intercom system, elevator, appliances, and allowances for electricity

Apply in person at 600 Main Street, Dalton, MA or call 413-684-0043 for an appointment

Professionally managed by: Joel A. Less Managed Properties, Inc.A Member of the Institute for Real Estate Management

SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITY

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Our affordable senior housing sites are enrichedsupportive living communities, where even those who live alone never feel alone.� Beautifully renovated apartments with amenities

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� On-site social service coordinator & resource for tenants

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How long is long-term care?

What is long-term care, and how long is it needed? Long-term care refers to a variety of services and supports designed to help you with personal care needs, like eating, bath-ing, dressing, walking and toileting. It is predominately not medical care — and it can take place over a short or long period of time. The goal of long term care is to help you live as independently as possible if you need help with everyday activities that you can no longer do on your own. The term you will often hear now is “long term services and support” (LTSS).

About 70% of people over age 65 need some type of long-term care during their lifetime. Perhaps the best known form of long term care is nursing facility services — but most long term care is provided in the home, and most personal care is provided by unpaid family members and friends.

Many nursing facilities and hospitals offer short-term “rehabilita-tion” to help you transition back to the community. Many of these rehabilita-tion services can also be provided in your own home.

If you have had medical treat-ment for a stroke or a broken hip, for example, you may get some medical care after you return home — but you may also need some help with what are called your “activities of daily living,” or ADLs, like using the toilet, taking a shower, walking and dressing. Tasks like shopping, cook-ing, and transportation — known as “instrumental activities of daily living.” — are also part of LTSS.

The need for LTSS may arise suddenly, such as after a heart at-tack, but more commonly the need for LTSS happens gradually, as you get older or have a disability that gets worse. Short-term care can last several weeks or a few months while you are recovering from an illness or injury. Long-term care can be ongo-ing, as with someone who is severely disabled from Parkinson’s or Al-zheimer’s disease. Many people use LTSS for years, using unpaid family members and hired caregivers.

It’s hard to predict how much or what type of long-term care you might need, but here are some risk factors to consider: • Age: The need for LTSS in-

creases with age.• Gender: Women are at higher

risk for LTSS needs than men, because they often live longer.

• Marital status: Single people are more likely than married people to need care from a paid provider.

• Lifestyle: Poor diet and exercise habits can increase a person’s risk.A number of public programs, in-

cluding Medicare and Medicaid, may help pay for some LTSS under certain circumstances. These programs have specific rules about what services are covered, how long you can receive benefits, whether or not you qualify for benefits, and how much you have to pay in out-of-pocket costs. Medi-care only covers medically necessary care and focuses on medical “acute care” such as doctor visits, drugs, and hospital stays. Medicare will pay for some of your nursing facility costs for up to 100 days. For the first 20 days, Medicare pays 100% of your costs, but for days 21 through 100, Medicare only covers a small part of your expenses.

Medicaid is better at covering LTSS needs — but it only helps people with low income and assets pay for some of their LTSS expenses. Medicaid, known in Massachusetts as “MassHealth,” covers personal care services at home, and nursing fa-cility care — but you still have to pay most of your income to the facility.

In addition to public programs, there are also private long term care insurance policies on the market. But people with certain medical or LTSS conditions may not qualify for such policies, even if they can afford the premiums. Someone buying LTC insurance in their 60s may not need to use it for 20 years---and consum-ers may not want to pay premiums for many years for a need that may

never arise.It’s important to start planning

for LTSS now to maintain your in-dependence and to make sure you get the care you may need, in the setting you want, in the future. To learn more about long term services

and supports in your community, call Elder Services at 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242. Reprinted with permission from Mass Home Care.


Your Dollars

Last chance for free tax preparation help

Free tax preparation assistance for all middle and low-income taxpay-ers, with special attention to those age 60 and older continues until April 15 through the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide Program. Volunteers trained in cooperation with the IRS will assist in filling out federal and Massachusetts tax returns and file them electronically.

Below are the eight Berkshire County sites offering this service, their schedules, and telephone numbers for making appointments:

Adams – COA Visitors Center, 3 Hoosac St. (743-8333) Noon – 3:30 p.m. on Wednesdays

Dalton – Dalton Senior Center, 40 Field Street Ext. (684-2000)9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays

Gt Barrington – Teague Senior Center, 909 South Main St. (528-1881)9 a.m. - noon on Wednesdays

Lee – COA Senior Center, 21 Crossway St. (243-5545)9 a.m. - noon on alternate Thursdays

Lenox – Community Center, 65 Walker St. (637-5535)9 a.m. - noon on alternate Thursdays

North Adams – Spitzer Senior Center, 116 Ashland St. (662-3125)9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Wednesdays

Pittsfield – Froio Senior Center, 330 North St. (499-9346)9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Tuesdays & Thursdays

Williamstown – Harper Center, 118 Church St. (458-8250)6 - 8 p.m. on Tuesdays

For additional information please contact the Information and Referral Department of Elder Services at 499-0524 or toll free at 1-800-544-5242.

streets and bad streets. On some streets there is art, music, and great food. Take a wrong turn and you will find crime, drugs, and scammers. The internet is the same way. Keep to popular sites; don’t click on ads; instead, go directly to specific sites offering the goods you want. Do not enter personal or financial informa-tion on a public computer (like at the library). Create “strong” passwords. Never use the company’s name in the password. Cyber criminals ac-tually have programs that look for dictionary words and numbers used in passwords. “Peanut1” may get you hacked while “Pe@nutMy#1Dog” may not.

If you purchased items online, check your statements regularly to make sure no one has hacked your credit card. Recently a person’s computer was hacked and there were almost $4,000 worth of charges made from London on a credit card and a PayPal account. Luckily, the person contacted the credit card company and PayPal both of whom took care of it.

Be cautious of email you receive especially with links or attachments. Email can come from strangers or your best friends and still be spam. Look for misspellings, bad English, and cold greetings in the body of the text. If you are not expecting an attachment from someone DO NOT open it! If the “IRS,” “Google,” or “AOL” is asking you to click on a link to verify information, they are

probably trying to steal it. It's always a good idea to keep a

backup of important documents and photos that you just can’t stand to lose This will make fixing or re-imaging your computer faster and easier in case something bad does happen to your computer.Marianne Hall is Elder Services' IT Coordinator.

IRS urges public to stay alert for scam phone calls

Criminals are posing as the IRS call to trick victims out of their money or personal information. Scams cost victims over $23 million. Phone scams first tried to sting older people, new immigrants to the U.S. and those who speak English as a second language. Now the crooks try to swindle just about anyone. And they’ve ripped-off people in every state in the nation.

Here are several tips to help you avoid being a victim of these scams:Scammers make unsolicited calls. Thieves call taxpayers claiming to be

IRS officials. They demand that the victim pay a bogus tax bill. They con the victim into sending cash, usually through a prepaid debit card or wire transfer. They may also leave “urgent” callback requests through phone “robo-calls,” or via phishing email.

Callers try to scare their victims. Many phone scams use threats to intimidate and bully a victim into paying. They may even threaten to arrest, deport or revoke the license of their victim if they don’t get the money.

Scams use caller ID spoofing. Scammers often alter caller ID to make it look like the IRS or another agency is calling. The callers use IRS titles and fake badge numbers to appear legitimate. They may use the victim’s name, address and other personal information to make the call sound official.

Cons try new tricks all the time. Some schemes provide an actual IRS address where they tell the victim to mail a receipt for the payment they make. Others use emails that contain a fake IRS document with a phone number or an email address for a reply. These scams often use official IRS letterhead in emails or regular mail that they send to their victims. They try these ploys to make the ruse look official.

The IRS will not:• Call you to demand immediate payment. The IRS will not call you if

you owe taxes without first sending you a bill in the mail.• Demand that you pay taxes and not allow you to question or appeal the

amount you owe.• Require that you pay your taxes a certain way. For instance, require that

you pay with a prepaid debit card.• Ask for your credit or debit card numbers over the phone.• Threaten to bring in police or other agencies to arrest you for not paying.

If you don’t owe taxes, or have no reason to think that you do:Do not give out any information. Hang up immediately.

PROTECT PAGE 1


Your DollarsFunding options for home repairs and improvements

By Laura FeakesMany seniors living on a fixed in-

come find it hard to finance needed home improvements, which would allow them to age in place safely, comfortably and independently. There are a number of programs that can help seniors with home repairs and improvement projects depend-ing on the person’s financial situation and where they live. Here are some options to explore:USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) Single Family Hous-ing Repair Loans & Grants, www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants - Also known as the Section 504 Home Repair program, it provides loans to very-low-income homeowners to repair, improve, or modernize their homes, or grants to very-low-income senior homeowners to remove health and safety hazards. To qualify, you must: be the homeowner and occupy the house; be unable to obtain affordable credit elsewhere; have a family income below 50 percent of the area median income. For grants, you must be age 62 or older and not be able to repay a repair loan. All Berkshire County towns are covered EXCEPT Pittsfield.

Examples of possible projects include installation and repair of sanitary water and waste disposal systems, connection fees for utilities, repair or replacement of heating systems, and structural improvements to roofs or siding. The maximum loan is $20,000; the maximum grant is $7,500 (Loans and grants can be combined for up to $27,500 in assistance). Home loans are available year round as long as funding is available, and applications are processed in the order they are received. Contact the USDA Hadley Office, 413-585-1000.The Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP), www.mass.gov/eohhs/consumer/disability-services/housing-disability/home-mod-loan - The state-funded HMLP, part of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC), lends money to homeowners who wish to start new modification projects that will allow them to remain in their homes and live more independently in their communities. No- and low-interest loans are provided to make modifications to the primary, permanent residence of elders, adults with disabilities, and families with children with disabilities. The modifications must be necessary to allow the beneficiary to remain in the home and must specifically relate to the functional limitations caused by the disability. It is not a home repair program. Examples of possible projects are ramps, hard wired alarm systems, accessible bathrooms and kitchens.

Income guidelines apply. Based on the income guidelines, from $1,000 up to $30,000 (inclusive of all costs) may be borrowed. Homeowners eligible for a 0% deferred payment loan (DPL) will not have to repay the loan until the property is sold or has its title transferred. 0% DPL and 3% amortizing loans must be repaid in 5 to 15 years, depending on the amount of the loan, and require monthly payment schedules. The agency administering the program for MRC in Western Mass is the Pioneer Valley Planning Com-mission (PVPC). Contact: 413-781-6045, TTY/TDD: 413-781-7168, or visit the website: www.pvpc.org.Municipal Home Improvement Grants - Individual cities and towns may have their own housing rehabilitation programs available to their residents, usually funded through state Community Development Block Grants. Generally these programs provide home improvement assistance to re-habilitate low/moderate income owner-occupied dwellings, with priority usually given to elimination of building code violations. Interested prop-erty owners should contact their town hall about program availability and assistance with completing an application.

One local example is the City of Pittsfield’s Home Improvement Program administered by its Department of Community Development (www.cityof-pittsfield.org). It provides grants and/or low-interest-rate loans to income-eligible homeowners or landlords with lower income tenants for code-related home improvements such as correction of building state sanitary code viola-tions. Examples of these improvements include plumbing, electrical, repair of sewer lines, lead paint removal, new roofs and furnaces, vinyl siding and

windows, porches, interior finish work, and foundation repairs. Pittsfield also offers a separate Handicapped Ramp Grant Program that provides grants to income eligible homeowners and tenants for the construction of exterior wheelchair ramps into housing units. Both of these programs are income eligible programs.Veterans Administration (VA), www.va.gov - The VA provides grants to service members and veterans with certain permanent and total service-connected disabilities to help purchase or construct an adapted home, or modify an existing home to accommodate a disability. For more informa-tion call 1-800-827-1000 or visit www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/adapted-housing.

Under Chapter 115 of Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L. ch. 115), qualifying indigent veterans and their families can receive necessary fi-nancial assistance for housing and other basic needs such as food, clothing, and medical care. Benefits could provide emergency home repair funds for veterans, a surviving spouse, or parents of veterans meeting financial eli-gibility guidelines. Applications for Ch 115 Public Assistance benefits can be filed with the veteran’s local Veterans’ Services Officer (VSO).For more information see: www.mass.gov/portal/articles/housing-for-massachusetts-veterans.html MassHousing, www.masshousing.com.MassHousing www.masshousing.com - MassHousing is an independent,

quasi-public agency that provides low-cost financing for affordable housing in Massachusetts. If you currently own a home in Massachusetts, MassHousing has a variety of useful resources including Septic System Repair Loans to repair a failing or noncompliant septic system and the Home Improvement Loan Program (HILP) to finance general repairs to your home. Borrow-ers must meet income eligibility limits to qualify for a HILP loan. Income limits vary by city or town. HILP loans are originated by approved banks, credit unions, and lenders across Massachusetts. For more information, call 1-888-843-6432.Berkshire Community Action Council (BCAC), www.bcacinc.org - BCAC has a Heating system repair and Replacement Program that is primar-ily designed to help with emergency “no heat” services. Clients who are eligible for Fuel Assistance and own their homes can have their heating systems repaired through this program. If the heating system cannot be repaired, assistance with the replacement of the heating system can also be provided. For more information contact the Director of Heating System Programs 413-418-3664 or visit their website.Mass Save®, www.masssave.com/residential - Mass Save® offers a no-cost home energy assessment to help homeowners make home improvements that save money, electricity and heating fuel. After you schedule an ap-pointment, an Energy Specialist will visit to assess your home’s current energy use and provide a custom list of energy-saving recommendations. They will help prioritize cost-effective improvements for your home, and let you know about rebates, discounts, tax credits, 0% financing, and other incentives to make it more affordable. They may even install no-cost immediate savings measures such as compact fluorescent light bulbs, programmable thermostats, and water saving devices. To schedule your no-cost Home Energy Assessment with a Mass Save® Energy Special-ist by calling 1-866-527-7283. Get more information and take an Online Home Energy Assessment at their website, www.MassSave.com.Homeowner Options for Massachusetts Elders (H.O.M.E.), http://elder-homeowners.org - This nonprofit agency provides in-home counseling services, offering elder homeowners a full review of specific needs and matching those needs with a wide range of services. Counseling is across a broad spectrum of concerns and various resource options, including: home repairs, income supplements, debt management, budgeting, long-term financial and remainder-of-life planning. Specialized intervention counseling and advocacy is available regarding foreclosure prevention and premature displacement threats due to overwhelming health and housing code problems, property tax and water liens, excessive consumer debt, mortgage, and refinance difficulties. To be eligible a person must be age 60 or older or age 50 if in jeopardy of losing your home, a Massachusetts homeowner with only one residence, low or moder-ate income. Call 978-970-0012 or 1-800-583-5337 to access their central intake system. Laura Feakes, Elder Services Infor-mation and Referral Specialist.


CAREGIVER DISCUSSION GROUPS

Elder Services’ Caregiver Coordinator Bea Cowlin leads monthly caregiver discussion groups. Unless otherwise noted, the groups meet at Elder Services.

• 2nd Tuesday, 10 - 11:30 a.m., at Elder Services

• 3rd Wednesday, 1- 2:30 p.m., Gt. Barrington COA

• 4th Thursday, 1 - 2:30 p.m., North Adams' Spitzer Center

New members are always welcome. There is no charge.Come for conversation, support, & helpful information.

For information call 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242.

Elder Services' Richard & Rita Gallagher Alzheimer's

Resource Center is for YOU!

The Center is at Elder Services, 877 South Street in Pi sfi eld and off ers:• books • videos • brochures • journals • and more

Use this invaluable resource when you or someone you know needs Alzheimer’s informa on.

Call 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242 for more informa on.

Caregiver/Alzheimer's InformationElder Services to host Alzheimer’s education series

By Bea Cowlin, LSWElder Services, in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Association,

will reprise the very popular Alzheimer’s Care Partners Education Series. The sessions begin on Thursday, April 7 and will continue the next five Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. The series will take place at Elder Services of Berkshire County, 877 South Street, Pittsfield.

Sessions 1, 2, 5 and 6 will be facilitated by Marcia McKenzie, M. Ed., Manager, Western Massachusetts Alzheimer’s Association. These sessions include: • April 7, “The Basics of Dementia”, addressing normal aging vs. de-

mentia, related disorders, how to obtain a diagnosis, and how to talk to your doctor;

• April 14, “Behavior and Communication,” addressing different ways to approach and speak to an individual with Alzheimer’s disease, common behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s and how to prevent wandering and restlessness;

• May 5, “Caregiving at Home”, addressing how to structure the day, how to help with personal care, and safety issues in the home and concern-ing driving;

• May 12, “Care for the Caregiver”, addressing the warning signs of caregiver stress, respite and coping strategies. On April 21, Session 3 entitled, "Asking for Help,” will feature Elder

Services’ Caregiver Coordinator Bea Cowlin, LSW, who will address when is the best time to ask for help, local resources, and how to select appropri-ate care services.

On April 28, Attorney Pamela Greene will present the fourth session on “Legal and Financial Issues,” addressing legal and financial matters and advance care planning.

As the delivery of health care becomes more challenging, the trend trans-lates into more family members each day moving into the role of caregiver. We know that caregivers have unique needs that if not addressed can lead to caregiver burnout. This series offers important information on Alzheimer’s

disease, and related dementias, and al-lows for discussion on what caregivers need and on how they can better cope with the increased stress that comes with caregiving. Caregivers are encour-aged to attend all of the sessions, but can attend only those that interest them if they wish. Registration is required.

For information on the series or for information on the Family Caregiver Support Program, please call Bea Cow-lin, Caregiver Coordinator, at 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242, or email bcowlin@ esbci.org. Bea Cowlin, LSW, is Elder Services Caregiver Coordinator.

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24 hours a day,7days a week!

Personal Emergency Response Service

Call 413-442-6363

World Headquarters – Novi, MICare Center – Pittsfield, MA

Available Nationwide

April 2016

These articles are reprinted with permission from the Alzheimer’s Associa-tion from “Family Care Guide - A Guide for Families Caring for Someone With Alzheimer’s Disease or a Related Dementia,” created and distributed by the Alzheimer’s Association.

Caregiver/Alzheimer's InformationSafety issues for those with Alzheimer’s

Changes in judgment and orientation that occur with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease can present risks to the person you are caring for and those around him. Addressing these risks often involves difficult decisions about limiting a person’s independence and increasing supervision and services. The information in this section will guide you as you make these decisions. You may need to consult your physician, elder law attorney, the Alzheimer’s Association or other family or health care providers for indi-vidualized advice.Wandering

Wandering away from home and becoming lost is an all-too-common behavior associated with Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, more than 60 percent of people with Alzheimer’s will wander at some point. For caregivers, it is an emotionally wrenching experience. For the person with Alzheimer’s, it can be life-threatening. A person with Alzheimer’s who wanders may not realize when she is lost. She may wander into dangerous areas; wandering also puts her at increased risk of exhaustion, dehydration, and exposure.

One of the most important things you can do is enroll the person with the MedicAlert® + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return® program. This is a 24-hour nationwide emergency response service. If a person with Alzheimer’s wanders away from home or a facility, a community support network, including the Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter, police and hospitals, is activated to help find the person who wandered. The program provides identification jewelry for the person and also for the caregiver. There are modest fees associated with this program, but help is available for those who cannot afford it. For information on enrollment or assistance in paying for the program, please call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 or visit www.alz.org/manh.

It is impossible to predict if or when a person with Alzheimer’s disease will wander, but sometimes the person will provides clues or behavioral signs that indicate he may be at heightened risk of wandering. The clues include:• Tries, or wants to “go home” even when at home. Try redirection.

Instead of telling him that he is home, for example, tell him that it’s a long trip home, and that he may want to take some food with him. Redirect him from the exit door into the kitchen or dining area. Calmly switch his focus from leaving to eating.

• Tries, or wants to “go to work” or other former obligations. - Try using fiblets. Instead of telling him that he’s been retired for 10 years, reassure him that he doesn’t have to go to work today because he’s “on vacation.”

• Is restless or paces - Offering exercise and other meaningful activities throughout the day may help control wandering behavior caused by restlessness.

• Is nervous or anxious - Reducing noise levels or other distractions can reduce agitation and help avoid a sudden attempt to leave.Once a person shows signs of wandering behavior, it can help to look

more closely at the circumstances surrounding the behavior such as:• What triggers it? Is there a certain time of day when the wandering

behavior is more common? Or does the person commonly exhibit a particular clue before attempting to wander?

• Is there something new in the person’s life? Has there been a recent move or a new medication that could be increasing confusion?

• Is the person hallucinating? Offer reassurance, provide a distraction or use redirection.

• Is there a pattern to the person’s wandering? Does she usually take the same route? Can this route be incorporated into periodic walks?As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, the person will need more and more

supervision from caregivers to prevent wandering and meet other needs. In addition to close supervision, the following ideas can also reduce the risk of wandering:• Place a slide or dead bolt out of the normal line of vision, about six inches

from the top or bottom of doors that lead outside.• Use child-safe doorknob covers that fit over the knob so that only the

cover turns, not the knob.• Attach a bell or an electronic device that buzzes or chimes to exit doors

(as merchants do to alert them to customers entering or leaving).• Keep items that can be misinterpreted by the person as cues to leave, such

as hats, coats, umbrellas, purses, away from exit doors and out of sight.• Try placing a simple black doormat in front of the exit door. This may

appear to the person as a “hole” that he should avoid. Keep in mind that if the mat is left in place over time, the person may ignore it.

• At night, disguise exit doors with a full curtain or screen, or drape a foot-square cloth over the area around the knob.

• Try putting traffic “stop sign” on the inside of the exit doors.In the event that your loved one wanders, here are the steps to take to

help ensure a safe return:• Inform the local police and call Medic Alert® + Alzheimer’s Association

Safe Return® program at 1-888-572-8566 whether or not the person is enrolled in the program.

• Alert neighbors to call you if they see the person outdoors unsupervised and keep a list of neighbors’ phone numbers handy.

• Note the places where the person may have wandered in the past or has recently talked about visiting.

• Keep several copies of a recent clear photo of the person with Alzheimer’s on hand.

• Keep an article of clothing with the person’s scent on it in a plastic bag.

April 2016

Elder Services' Volunteers…

Ron AasenSandra AasenNorman AntonioLucy AulisiFlorence AveryYvette BastowKaren BaumbachAnna BeiningElizabeth BenzPaula BergeronBlossom BerryBarbara BizziMarina BobrovskyPatricia BoisvertEva BonneyMaxine BooklessJudy BoucherConlin Bradley

Florence BrettJanice BrindisiBeverly BrothersAngela BurkeChristine ByrneBarbara ChamberlainNancy ChicoineRuth ClairmontAnn ClarkBeverly ClarkeEileen ClarkeFrank ClarkeCarolyn Coco Carol ColabatistaLinda ComstockDeborah CoodyCarol Couture

Rosemary CummingsJoan DafarraMichelle DargieMarie DauryLorraine DeanElla DeaneKaren DeOrdioDennis DeVergilioElizabeth Di GrigoliCaryl DiengottCaroline DietlinMelissa DobbertHolly DobbinsNorma d’OliveiraNorman DouglasJudith DouvilleGail EllisMichael Ende

Joy EngelsJudy EnsignMichael EvansRalph FarrarFlavio FernandesKarmen Field-MitchellJanice FisherJoanne FlynnLouise FrankenbergDr. John GaltGordie GalushaAllan GarnerCeceila GarnerAndrea GaylordJoanne GaylordJoe GerardJohn Gilligan

Volunteer Helping Elder Services' Caregiver Staff

Board of Directors Dawn Dellea, PresidentVan ElletDiana FontanaSully Garofano, Vice PresidentErica GirgentiKim GrahamHilary GreeneSusan Kormanik

Debra KushnetKathleen LuczynskiDavid MangunCatherine R. MayDavid Murphy, Jr.John Rys, TreasurerDiane Sheridan, Clerk

Advisory Council Gail ArmstrongBruce BernsteinTammy BiaginiCathy CarchediJean C. DavisRosanne FrieriMichele Gilligan *Jennifer GoeweyKaren Gold, Vice Chair

Lisa Fletcher-UdelElizabeth KeeganJoe MajorPolly Mann *Mary MartinelliBrian O’GradyKelly Pizzi, ChairPattie Pero *Anne Singleton

Non-Board Committee MembersLinda CernikTanya Haas *Christopher KingKelli KozakHerb LawrenceArthur Milano

Bill PolkWilliam RyanVirginia Stanton SmithGini Titterton *

* Also volunteer for a program

Group Volunteers Many thanks to the following organizations, their staff members and their clients who donate time to volunteer for Elder Services:

Balance Rock Investment GroupBerkshire County ARC:

Advantage Employee Network Center for Development

Crossroads Social Development Center

Transitions Berkshire Life, a Guardian Company

Northern Lights RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program)

Riverbrook ResidenceSABIC

April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month

Volunteerism is an enormous part of strengthening communities across America. National Volunteer Appreciation Month is a time

to celebrate those who dedicate their time to be stewards and leaders of our community through volunteerism. President Richard Nixon established National Volunteer Week with an executive order in 1974, and every sitting U.S. president since has issued a procla-mation during National Volunteer Week, urging Americans to give

their time to community outreach organizations.

Elder Services will host a tea for its volunteers to thank them for all they do on April 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the ITAM Lodge, Waubeeka Road in Pittsfield. Volunteers can RSVP to Beth Mathis-Torrey at

499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242.

Volunteers Board members: Kathleen Luczynski, David Mangun, Deb Kushnet, Diane Sheridan and Diana “Toni” Fontana.


…Make a Difference EverydayJennifer GlassCeline GodboutJean GoodermoteEric GreenbergWilliam GreilichMarie GrullMary HaddadCecilia HamiltonMarie HarpinNadine HawverRosemary HoughtlinThelma HoverAlexandra HuberChristine HurleyJudith HydeMargaret Jenks

Charles JochAnne JonesThomas JosephCaroline KacenskyRuthie KarrelHoward Kaufman

Peggy KeefnerCharis KeelerHolly KetronButch KingHeather KingPat KingMargery KirchnerDebbie KnappWilliam KormanikClaire KristensenNorma KronenbergMargaret KuhnLily KuziaPatricia LaBaghVirgina LafondLynn LampiasiMonica LapinMargaret LavaletteGertrude Lennox

Edith LeveilleMary Ellen LevinCecily LevineFrancine LicataShirley MacDonaldGeorgette MancusoRene ManghueCandace MarksRosanne MarshHelena MatthewsEllen MerrittNicholas MildenhallSharon MilukasVictoria MoncecchiTheresa MoreauJudy Morehouse

Paula MoreySusan MorrisJohn MorseJoan MoylanSonny NelsonGail Nelson

Lorraine NewtonWinslow NewtonVirginia NiewinskiHarold NovickKaren D. OakNancy O’BrienTerry O’BrienMary K. O’BrienGeorge OleenW. Kay OrchardEdward OshinskyMarianna PachecoRuth PearceDavid PelletierWesley PetersenPatricia PezzeJohn PhilpottJenifer PicardGerda Pichler

Marcel RajotteRaymond RanzoniDiana ReevesLinda RichardsRuth RichardsonAlice RiveraOrella RobareCristena- Theresa RobertsWarren RobertsonJim RockochAlice RodriguezGail RothwellJane RozakRichard RozakRita RusdenAnne RyderPatricia SalviLorraine SawtelleMarion SchleicherLaurie SchwartzDennis SearsElizabeth SenayRenate ShaferGilian ShallcrossBetty ShepardElaine ShindlerMary Shogry-HayerAdele SiterMarion SmithRoberta SmithSusan Smith

Meals On Wheels Volunteer

Ombudsmen Volunteers

Nancy SommerMargaret SouleCatherine SpinneyRobert St. PeterKathy StaropoliRon StewartArlene StockleyLaura SunnJulia SzakalJane TantJulie TaylorRonald TerryArt ThielPeggy ThielFloyd TulerJeff TurnerDavid TwiggsJoan UryWinnie VerettoMarilyn VinceSamuel VinceMaryAnn VreelandRich WallachMary WashburnCharles WebsterLorraine WechterAlan WeinmanMarsha WilsonJanet WinnTeresa Zaccaria

SHINE volunteers

Elder Services Wants You!Elder Services invites you to join this

special group of people.

To apply to become a volunteer, please call Elder Services at

499-0524 or 1-800-544.5242.

April 2016

Elder Services Speaks 200 Languages!

Beginning English speaker? Did you know that Elder Services has the ability to com-municate with individuals speaking over 200 different languages? Don’t let lan-guage be a barrier to getting services for you, your aging parents or grandparents.

Call us today at 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242 for more information .

Meals on Wheels

Editor’s Note: Unless requested otherwise, each month Berkshire Senior pub-

lishes the names of donors to Elder Services and those honored by the donations. These funds help Elder Services provide Berkshire seniors with programs and services to help them remain indepen-dent. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent of the law.

You Can Donate

to Elder Services Online!JUST GO TO WWW.ESBCI.ORG & CLICK

THE IDONATE BUTTON!Scroll down the page to see a number of options for supporting Berkshire

seniors. You can provide an e-check, use your credit or debit card, or donate non-cash items. You can donate to the “Greatest Service Need” or choose

to designate your gift to the Elder Independence Appeal, Meals on Wheels, the Elder Care Fund, or make a Memorial or In Honor of Donation.

Thank you for your help!

General Donations

We RememberJanuary Memorial Donations

Elder Services

Elder Independence Appeal

Mrs. Sylvia Mendel Mr. & Mrs. Wilfred Peat

Helen Pigott Ms. Irene F. Ropelewski

Adams Community Bank Mrs. Ginger Alexander Mr. & Mrs. Thomas ArientiMr. & Mrs. Frank Aulisio, Jr.Mr. Claude Austin Ms. Jean Barber-LibrizziMr. Arthur Batacchi, Sr.Ms. Jo BellomoMs. Geraine Benham Mr. Richard Brophy Mr. & Mrs. Brian Butterworth Mr. & Mrs. Gene Carlson Ms. Susan Coles Ms. Alice Collins Colt Insurance Agency Mr. & Mrs. Frank Cote Ms. Lindsay Crampton Mr. & Mrs. Walter CwalinskiMr. & Mrs. Mark DallmeyerMr. Richard Daub Mr. & Mrs. William Dempsey Mr. Alfred A. Derosia, Sr.Mr. & Mrs. Frank DignardMr. & Mrs. James DobbertMr. & Mrs. George Everhart Mr. Robert J. FachiniMs. Bernice B. FilkinsMr. Thomas FurlanoMr. & Mrs. Thomas Gardner Mr. Bruce GelinasMr. & Mrs. William W. Goessel Attorney & Mrs. Joel Greenberg Ms. Hilary Greene Ms. Marguerite GuidenMr. Donald HagbergMs. Victoria W. Harrison Ms. Joan Haskins Mr. & Mrs. Neil HiltpoldMs. Pam HugaboneMrs. Joyce E. Kelley Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Klein Ms. Sandra J. KleinerMs. Roseann Kudlate

Lamme & Linscott Attorneys-at-Law Ms. Elaine LaPierreMs. Katt LissardMr. James Maher Mr. & Mrs. James P. Mahon Ms. Lorraine Maloney Mr. Vincent MarinaroMr. & Mrs. Thomas A. McGill Mr. Frank J. McKeever, Jr.Mr. & Mrs. Paul C. MerlinoMr. & Mrs. Edward R. Messer, Jr.Mrs. Claire Mooney Mr. & Mrs. Raymond H. MoulthropMs. Marie T. MusanteMr. & Mrs. Wilfred Peat Dr. & Mrs. Larry J. PellishMr.& Mrs. B. & M. PhilbrickPurple Plume Ms. Rose Rondeau Ms. Irene F. RopelewskiMr. & Mrs. Harold RudinRabbi & Mrs. Harold Salzmann, D.D.Ms. Marcia Savage Ms. Della SayresMr. & Mrs. Thomas L. Sedgwick Mrs. Bernice ShainmanMrs. Tryntje ShapliMs. Elizabeth M. ShogryMr. Theodore SideropoulosMs. Carole Siegel Ms. Evelyn Small Mr. & Mrs. James SulzmannSurgimed Corp. Mr. Kurt W. SyerMrs. Janice TassoneMr. & Mrs. Wayne TenneyThe Memory Clinic Ms. Judith Ann Thompson Ms. Rose VadalaMr. David Van DeusenMr. Adam Weinberg Ms. Victoria E. Williams Ms. Rosa Zubizarreta

Mr. Jonathan BaumbachMs. Elizabeth RobertsMs. Elaine SteinertAdams Community Bank

Greylock Federal Credit UnionBerkshire Taconic Community Foundation

St. John’s Episcopal Church

Elder Services' Community-based Services staffLeft to right: Bonny DiTomasso, Home and Community Based Programs Supervisor; Laura Tatro, Options Counselor; Bea Cowlin, Caregiver Coordinator; Linda Kay, SCSEP Job Developer; Ann Rocchi, Benefits Counselor and Volunteer Coordinator; Phyllis DeMartino, Lead SHINE Counselor; and John Arthur Miller, Options Counselor


Elder Services

Elder Services Adult Family Care Program can help put the family in your loved one’s care!

• Do you have a family member with a medical condition limiting his or her ability to live independently?

• Are you caring for a family member age 60 or older or a chronically disabled adult between the ages of 18 & 59?

If you answered yes, then:• Elder Services may be able to provide you with support through

a Medicaid-funded program, Adult Family Care.

• Caregivers of eligible clients receive a tax-free monthly stipend and clinical support from a registered nurse and a social worker.

For more information about Adult Family Care, call Elder Services at 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242.

Fallon Community Health Foundation donates to Elder Services' Nutrition/MOW program

From set-up of in-home care to emotional supportand pain management, we’ve been providing careto Berkshire County for more than 30 years. Weare the Berkshire’s most personalized hospice,with neighbors caring for neighbors.

The difference is in our care.

877 South Street Suite 1WPittsfield, MA 01201

413-443-2994www.hcib.org

30 years of hospice.

Thousands of lives touched.

HospiceCare in The Berkshires

We’re Perfecting the Art of Superior Care.

Kimberly M. Salmon, Fallon Health Community Foundation Director of Community Relations, with Elder Services' Executive Director John Lutz.

The Fallon Community Health Foundation donated $2,500 to Elder Services’ Nutrition/Meals on Wheels (MOW) program, which provides hot, nutritious, noontime meals to over 800 Berkshire seniors each weekday.

In 2015, Elder Services prepared and served over 200,000 meals. Over 80% were delivered as Meals on Wheels to the homes of frail elders who might not otherwise have had a hot meal or a friendly visit. The remaining meals were served to seniors attending Elder Services’ 15 group lunch sites throughout the county.

Elder Services’ MOW program provides noontime meals each week-day to frail, homebound seniors. To receive Meals on Wheels, a senior

must be age 60 or older and have at least one of the following: a recent hospital or nursing home discharge, a physical or cognitive impairment making it difficult to cook meals, or inadequate kitchen facilities. In addition, a senior must be unable to attend a senior lunch site and have no formal/informal supports for noon meal preparation. There are no income eligibility criteria.

¿Habla usted español?Elder Services cuenta con servi-cios de intérpretes y en los folle-tos de la agencia está disponible

en español.

Llame por favor 499-0524 o 1-800-544-5242

Looking for Quality Affordable Senior Living?

You’ve just found the right place!

Columbia Arms

Rose Manor

Wahconah Heights

Francis Plaza

Supportive Housing Programat Providence Court

Pitts eld Housing Authority65 Columbus Avenue • Pitts eld, MA

413-443-5936

Pay only 30% of Your Income for Rent

All Utilities Included

24 Hour Maintenance Service

APPLICANTS MUST MEET STATE AND FEDERAL GUIDELINES

We Thank Our Advertisersfor Their Support!

April 2016

For Your Information

Embracing the Beauty of the Aging BodyHow body image affects people in the community & continuing care settings

Presenter: Jane Fleishman, MS, MEd, Back by popular demand!

When: Tuesday, April 26, Registration & Refreshments: 2:30–3: p.m., Program: 3 – 5:30 p.m.

Where: Sugar Hill Senior Living Community, Music Room, 45 Main Street, Dalton

Jane Fleishman will discuss how carrying “old baggage” about the body can affect one’s ability to age with grace and to embrace the beauty of the aging process. Body image, particularly as one ages, can have an enormous impact on an individual’s self-esteem, ability to relate to others, and cause serious health effects. In this pow-erful workshop, participants will gain clear understanding of the ways in which the aging body can affect older adults in the community and in continuing care settings.

2.5 credits available for NP’s, nursing, social work, LMHC, substance abuse counselors, NHA’s, LMFT’s

Berkshire Senior TV keeps you up-to-dateCeleste Roeller Harp of Age Friendly Berkshires and Laura Kittross from the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission discussed the Age Friendly Initiative and upcoming events with Elder Services of Berkshire County Executive Director John Lutz on Elder Services' March Berkshire Senior TV.

Berkshire Senior TVBerkshire Senior TV produces programs on topics of special interest to seniors and their families. These infor-mative halfhour programs are shown regularly on local Berkshire cable channels. Check your cable TV guide for exact broadcast times of Berkshire Senior TV.

PCTV - Access Pittsfi eld (Central Berkshire) – Channel 15 Tuesdays at 4:30 + 9 a.m., and 1, 5 + 8 p.m.

NBCT (Northern Berkshire) – Channel 15Thursdays 9 p.m.

CTSB (Southern Berkshire) – Channel 16Visit www.ctsbtv.org or call 243-8211

WilliNet (Williamstown) – Channel 17Visit www.willinet.org/schedule/WilliNet Channel 17 or call 458-0900

over into reducing sleep-related day-time impairment that has implica-tions for quality of life.

Clinical practice guidelines is-sued in 2014 by the Society for Inte-grative Oncology (SIC) recommend meditation as supportive care to re-duce stress, anxiety, depression, and fatigue in patients treated for breast cancer. The SIC also recommends its use to improve quality of life in these people.

Meditation-based programs may be helpful in reducing common menopausal symptoms, including the frequency and intensity of hot f lashes, sleep and mood distur-bances, stress, and muscle and joint pain. However, differences in study designs mean that no firm conclu-sions can be drawn.

A 2014 research review sug-gested that mind and body practices, including meditation, reduce chemi-cal identifiers of inflammation and show promise in helping to regulate the immune system.Meditation effects on the brain and aging

In a 2012 study, researchers com-pared brain images from 50 adult meditators and 50 adult non-medi-tators. Results suggested that people who practiced meditation for many years have more folds in the outer layer of the brain. This process (called gyrification) may increase the brain’s ability to process information. A 2013 review of three studies suggests that meditation may slow, stall, or even reverse changes that take place in the brain due to normal aging.Is meditation safe?

Meditation is generally consid-

ered to be safe for healthy people. People with physical limitations may not be able to participate in certain meditative practices involving move-ment. Everyone with physical health conditions should speak with their health care providers before starting a meditative practice, and make their meditation instructor aware of their condition.

There have been rare reports that meditation could cause or worsen symptoms in people with certain psychiatric problems like anxiety and depression. People with exist-ing mental health conditions should speak with their health care providers before starting a meditative practice, and make their meditation instructor aware of their condition.

Because only a few studies have been conducted on the effects of meditation for attention deficit hyper-activity disorder (ADHD), there isn’t sufficient evidence to support its use for this condition.More to consider

Don’t use meditation to replace conventional care or as a reason to postpone seeing a health care pro-vider about a medical problem. Ask about the training and experience of the meditation instructor you are considering. Help your health care providers give you better coordinated and safe care by telling them about all the health approaches you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health.Information for this article was provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, National Institutes of Health, and National Center for Complementary and Inte-grative Health (NCCIH).

MEDITATION PAGE 1

Northern Berkshire Parkinson’s Support GroupMeets the last Friday of the month in the downstairs board room

of the Williamstown Savings Bank (Mountain One, located right on Route 2) at 10:30 am.

The meetings are free, and caretakers are welcome as well as people with Parkinson’s.

For further information call 458-8427.

April 2016

SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone)

Adams Visitors Center 743-8333 3 Hoosac StreetBecket/Otis/Sandisfield Otis Town Hall269-0100 x107 One North Main RoadDalton Senior Center684-2000 40 Field Street ExtensionGreat Barrington Claire Teague Senior Center528-1881 909 South Main StreetHinsdale Hinsdale Town Hall655-2310 or 655-2929 39 South StreetLanesborough Lanesborough COA448-2682 83 North Main StreetLee Lee COA243-5545 21 CrosswayLenox Community Center637-5535 65 Walker StreetNorth Adams Spitzer Center662-3125 116 Ashland Street.Pittsfield Ralph J. Froio Senior Center499-9346 330 North StreetSheffield Senior Center229-7037 25 Cook RoadStockbridge Senior Center298-4170 x263 50 Main StreetWilliamstown Harper Center458-8250 118 Church Street

City/Town/Phone Address

Where You Can Meet With a SHINE Counselor*

Looking for interesting articles & helpful information on aging?

Check out the Executive Office of Elder Affairs’ website:www.800ageinfo.com,

Or call: 1-800-243-4636 (1-800-AGE-INFO)

As always, you can call Elder Services at 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242, your one stop resource for Berkshire County seniors.

* There is no charge for meeting with SHINE counselors.

Volunteers who will SHINEElder Services’ SHINE and Management Program Coordinator Shauna Post recently presented a training for a class of new SHINE Counselors. (Left to right) Robin Knapp, Laura Tatro, Shauna Post, John Arthur Miller and Chelsee Testa.

Managing your diabetes can sometimes be overwhelming. You may have a myriad of questions about the best way to manage your disease, what medications you need, if you need to check your sugar lev-els, and how you are going to pay for your supplies and medications. Price Chopper and Market 32 have a program available that can help you confidently and affordably manage your diabetes called the Diabetes AdvantEdge program.

The Diabetes AdvantEdge pro-gram provides many diabetes medi-cations and supplies to patients with a prescription at no cost. Joining the program is free and some of the most common medications for diabetes are included.

Being a member of the Diabetes AdvantEdge program also gives you the option of accessing our automatic refill program so you never have to worry about missing a dose. Your medication will be refilled a few

days before you run out and will be ready for you at the pharmacy. You will even receive a phone call or text notification reminding you that your prescription is ready for pick up.

We also have an easy nutritional scoring system, NuVal, available on our shelf tags throughout the store to help you make better food choices. The scale is 1-100, the higher the number the better the nutrition of the item. This makes it easy to compare products at the shelf. Brochures and more information are available at the pharmacy.

It is important for patients with diabetes to make sure their immuni-zations are current. Our pharmacists are all certified immunizers and can provide you with an “Immunization Check-up” to make sure you are up to date.

The Diabetes AdvantEdge pro-gram can be your complete diabetes care solution and help you make the changes necessary to live a happier, healthier life with diabetes. Stop and talk with a pharmacy teammate at our pharmacies in Pittsfield or Great Barrington for more information. Chelsea Trant is a Pharmacy Intern at Price Chopper and Market 32.

The Price Chopper and Market 32 Diabetes AdvantEdge Program

By Chelsea Trant

18 Oak St., Pittsfield, MA(413) 447-3800

Established in2001

Serving All of New England & New York

If You Need Transportation Assistance, We Are Available 24/7, 365 Days

You name it, we do it!

WheelchairSupplied if Needed

Did You Know?

In the past year, Elder Services was fortunate enough to share the generosity of over 285 volunteers with Berkshire County seniors. Over 90 percent of those volunteers are themselves seniors.

April 2016

Our Community

The MassDOT and Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has launched the “RMV Near Me” program, a pilot partnership statewide with Councils on Aging (COA) to provide additional service locations where senior citizens can receive assistance processing routine Registry transac-tions online.

Trained by RMV staff assist residents with conducting online transactions as well as helping to locate important RMV forms, docu-ments, and resources online provide assistance at participating COAs: Ad-ams, Great Barrington, Pittsfield, and Sheffield. Examples of several RMV transactions that can be processed at COA locations include: renewing Massachusetts driver’s licenses on-line (if the resident is younger than 75), and renewing a motor vehicle registration without having to visit the local RMV branch.

Over the last year, the RMV has been increasing the use of existing al-

RMV partnering with COAs to offer seniors online transactions assistance

ternative service channels, increasing RMV staff performance measured by improving accountability and customer treatment, and improving customer wait times through the use of dual queuing methods that have eliminated hidden wait times at participating branches. The RMV has also redesigned MassRMV.com to be more customer friendly and improved outreach to increase online use.

The partnership with the COAs follows an RMV partnership with 12 AAA offices throughout the Commonwealth offering Registry services for members. For a complete list of transactions, visit http://www.southernnewengland.aaa.com/.

The RMV reminds customers that the best place to do business is at our online branch as it offers more than 20 transactions you can complete online at www. MassRMV.com. For the latest RMV news follow Twitter @MassRMV #skiptheline.

Outings, Events, Meetings, Groups,

Volunteer Opportunities, and More!

For information about membership, visit any Greylock branch throughout Berkshire County. Or, visit us online at www.Greylock.org. Federally Insured by NCUA

Join QTC and take advantage of all the benefits and services the Club has to offer.

Quality Time Club®for Greylock members age 55 and over

The

A great way to spend the dayThe Supportive Day Program located at the Ralph Froio Senior Center in Pittsfield, celebrates many holidays including the Chinese New Year with a Chinese luncheon, complete with chopsticks, Chinese history, fortune telling, and calligraphy, and Valentine’s Day at the center with the “Happy Club.” Caregivers who are interested in respite services may contact the program Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 499-9346 ext. 108.

Rainbow Seniors Serves LGBTQ EldersPittsfield: The first Saturday of the month, April 2, May 7, June 4, July 2,

August 6, at the Berkshire Athenaeum Conference Room 2 - 4 p. m.

Williamstown: The third Tuesday of each month 2 - 4 p. m., featuringe our traditional potluck lunches and programs at First Congregational Church

of Williamstown (906 Main St., at Route 2 and Chapin Hall Road (April 19, May 17, June 21, July 19, August 16)

For the latest schedule & information, contact Ed at 413-441-6006 or [email protected].

Sign up for our email announcements and never miss a minute of the fun.


Visit www.berkshirehealthcare.org to contact a location near you.

HILLCREST COMMONS • MT. GREYLOCK EXTENDED CARE • KIMBALL FARMS • FAIRVIEW COMMONS

WILLIAMSTOWN COMMONS • NORTH ADAMS COMMONS • HOSPICECARE IN THE BERKSHIRES

We’re Perfecting the Art of Superior Care.

Exceptional Care, everywhere in Berkshire County

800-445-4560www.berkshirehealthcare.org

Nationally recognized quality, hometown care

• Independent and Assisted Living

• Memory Care

• Short-term Rehab• Skilled Nursing• Hospice Care

Have Questions? Call Elder Services at

1-800-544-5242 or 499-0524

Berkshire Senior

¿Habla usted español?Elder Services cuenta con

servicios de intérpretes y en los folletos de la agencia está disponible en español.

Llame por favor 499-0524 o 1-800-544-5242

Berkshire Elder Law CenterCall for my FREE

Home & Savings Protection Kit.DONʼT LOSE EVERYTHING, PLAN NOW!

• Estate and Medicaid Planning • Real Estate Transactions • Will and Probate Administrations

JAMES J. SISTO (413) 664-7700 (413) 458-9800Elder Law Attorney

www.BerkshireElderLaw.com311D Main Street

Williamstown, MA 0126740 Main Street

North Adams, MA 01247

Savino Empire Monuments, Inc.

Est. 1931 Complete Service of

Monuments & Markers

100 Wahconah Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201

(413) 442-4149

Donna Brewer, Owner

Elder Services' Nutrition Program

April

Elder Services' Senior Lunch Sites Elder Services offers hot, nutritious noontime meals at senior lunch sites located throughout Berkshire County. Anyone 60 or over can reserve a meal at any of the sites by calling the site they would like to attend by 11:30 a.m. the previous day. There is a suggested donation of $2.00 per meal.

If You Receive Meals on Wheels & Are Not Going to be Home

PLEASE TELL YOU MOW DRIVER OR CALL US TOLL FREE BY 9 A.M. at 1-800-981-5201.

SENIORS 60 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDERSuggested Donation - $2.00

All contributions are returned to the community toward the cost of the Nutrition Program and Services.

Dietary InformationAll meals include 1% Milk 102 calories/107 mg sodium. Calories and sodium from salad dressings, margarine, crackers and condiments are not included. **High Sodium Entre *Modifications for restricted sugar available

Nutrition information provided is not exact but will help guide you.

City/Town/Phone Address Meal Times

Days Meals Served M T W Th F

Adams 743-8333

Community Center 3 Hoosac St. 11:30 a.m.

Becket 623-8934

Town Hall Route 8 11:00 a.m.

Cheshire 743-9719

Senior Center 119 School St. 11:30 a.m.

Dalton 684-2000/684-0016

Senior Center 40 Field St. Ext. Noon

Great Barrington 528-4118

Claire Teague Senior Ctr. 917 South Main St. 11:30 a.m.

Lanesboro 442-2682

Town Hall 83 North Main St. 11:30 a.m.

Lee 243-5545

Senior Center 21 Crossway Village 11:45

Lenox 637-5535

Community Center 65 Walker St. Noon

City/Town/Phone Address Meal Times

Days Meals Served M T W Th F

North Adams 662-3125

Spitzer Center 116 Ashland St. 11:45 a.m.

Pittsfield 499-9346

Ralph J. Froio Senior Ctr. 330 North St. 11:30 a.m.

Pittsfield-Kosher 442-2200

Cong. Knesset Israel 16 Colt Rd. Noon

Stockbridge 298-4170, x263

Senior Center 50 Main St. Noon

Stockbridge 298-7037

Heaton Court 5 Pine St. 11:30 a.m.

Sheffield 229-7037

Senior Center 25 Cook Road Noon

Williamstown 458-8350

Harper Center 118 Church St. 11:30 a.m.

1529

483

13215

Calories 744 Sodium: 834

4 5 6 7 8 *high sodium day*190 156 44 198 550

20 98 283 98 1263 9 26 334 195

123 132 213 121 2131 2 81 15 5

Calories: 588 Sodium: 444 Calories: 668 Sodium: 504 Calories:849 Sodium 754 Calories: 802 Sodium: 873 Calories 715 Sodium: 1196

11 12 13 14 * high sodium day* 15301 451 226 896 131

3 56 85 53 48186 1 109 0 64

99 110 355 193 121222 1 10 1 4

Calories:748 Sodium: 918 Calories:539 Sodium: 726 Calories: 833 Sodium: 892 Calories 752 Sodium: 1250 Calories: 556 Sodium: 475

18 19 20 21 22104 321 224 279

19 167 109 18672 9 109 3

132 215 193 1105 43 1 151

Calories: 602 Sodium: 439 Calories: 738 Sodium: 862 Calories: 807 Sodium: 743 Calories: 749 Sodium: 836

25 26 27 28 29284 487 355 240 285

56 48 33 93 5643 5 14 185 2

123 99 100 121 1320 174 1 4 6

Calories: 530 Sodium: 613 Calories: 925 Sodium: 920 Calories: 559 Sodium: 610 Calories: 545 Sodium: 750 Calories: 716 Sodium: 588

If you have any questions regarding your dietary needs please contact Elder Services Nutrition at 1-800-981-5201

Parslied PotatoesMixed Vegetables

Italian BreadOrange

*Chocolate Pudding w/ Topping

Chicken Cacciatore

BroccoliWhole Wheat Hamburg Roll

Apple Crisp

SpinachRye Bread

Banana

PATRIOT'S DAY

Beef BurgundyGarlic Mashed Potatoes

Peas and CarrotsWhole Wheat Dinner Roll

Peaches

Pears

Cream of Mushroom SoupEgg Salad

Macaroni & CheeseStewed Tomatoes

Mixed Tropical Fruit

Bone in Baked ChickenRice Pilaf

Pineapple Chunks*Vanilla Pudding w/ Topping

Tuna Noodle CasseroleGreen Beans

Stewed TomatoesMultigrain Bread

Beef ChiliBrown Rice

SpinachBiscuit

Chicken w/ AsparagusOven Roasted Potatoes

CarrotsOatmeal Bread

**Stir Fry Pork CasseroleNoodles

Oriental Mixed VegetableRye Bread

Italian Beans100% Whole Wheat Bread

Grilled Chicken w/ GravyRosemary Potatoes

Corn w/ Pimiento100% Whole Wheat Bread

Fresh Apples

Italian MeatballsPenne w/ Sauce

Green Beans (HDM)Italian Bread

PineappleTossed Salad (Cong)

**Hot DogVegetarian Baked Beans

SauerkrautWhole Wheat Hot Dog Roll

Apricot Half

Roast Pork w/ GravyMashed PotatoesBrussels SproutsOatmeal Bread

Applesauce

Lentil SoupChicken SaladSeasoned Kale

Whole Wheat Hamburg BunPeach Cobbler

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

Meatball StroganoffRoasted Potatoes

Peas w/ Pearl OnionsMultigrain Bread

*Butterscotch Pudding w/ Topping

Meatloaf w/GravyRoasted Potatoes

Wax BeansWhole Wheat Dinner Roll

Applesauce

Roast Turkey w/ GravyMashed Potatoes

BroccoliWhole Wheat Dinner Roll

Fresh Pears

Beef StewBoiled PotatoesWinter Squash

Whole Wheat Dinner RollMixed FruitPineapple Chunks

100% Whole Wheat BreadCauliflower

Sweet PotatoesBeef Patty w/ Pepper Gravy

Tossed Green Salad (Cong)Pears

Oatmeal BreadBeets (HDM)

Au gratin PotatoesBreaded Alaskan Pollock

According to the March 2016 "Tufts Health and Nutrition Newsletter," eating your vegetables for many Americans mean eating potatoes, tomatoes, and lettuce. This translates into: white potatoes 30% (115 pounds per person), mainly as French fries, potato chips, and other processed potatoes; tomatoes 22% , about 4/5 of which were processed, rather than fresh; and lettuce 7% (25 pounds per person). Everyone needs to eat more vegetables, especially other varieties that are not pro-cessed, because vegetables help our bodies by supplying vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Non-Profit Org. PAID Permit No. 115 Pittsfield, MA 01201 ... · PAID Permit No. 115 Pittsfield, ......

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Transcript of Non-Profit Org. PAID Permit No. 115 Pittsfield, MA 01201 ... · PAID Permit No. 115 Pittsfield, ......