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The Mashpee
Senior Connection
April 2015
MASHPEE SENIOR CENTER/COUNCIL ON AGING
26 FRANK E. HICKS DRIVE
MASHPEE, MA 02649
Phone: (508)539-1440 • Fax: (508) 539-2791
www.coamashpeema.gov
539-1440 or stop by the front desk to sign up. Drop-in’s welMASHPEE SENIOR CENTER HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
come!
The Mashpee Senior Center will be closed on MONDAY,
MASHPEE INFORMATION SESSION— Tuesday, April 14,
APRIL 20 for PATRIOT’S Day.
10:00 am. Do you know the agencies that provide services for
Mashpee residents? Join Special Police Officer and AdvoTHE POWER OF CONNECTION: FRIENDSHIP’S BENEFITS AS cate, Tara Carline at an informational session at the Mashpee
WE AGE — We need to stay fit physically and mentally, and Senior Center. The participating agencies are Mashpee Police
there are many things we can do to maintain mental agility! Department, Mashpee Fire Department, Mashpee Council on
Join us on Friday, April 17, 1:30 pm at the Mashpee Senior Aging, Mashpee Human Services, Southbay Community
Center for a presentation by Dr. Rob Schreiber, M.D., Medical Health Center, Mashpee Housing Authority and the Mashpee
Director of Outpatient Primary Care Practice, Community- Wampanoag Tribe. Each agency will speak to their role within
Based Programs, Innovation and Development, Hebrew Sen- the community and the services they provide to the Mashpee
iorLife. This program will discuss fostering community and residents. Anyone can benefit from educating themselves
connection and preventing loneliness, and it will focus on the about the services available in their community.
importance of maintaining friendships, staying connected in KNOWLEDGE IS POWER! Rsvp’s appreciated. Please call
your community and the negative effects of isolation. Dr. (508) 539-1440 or stop by the front desk to sign up.
Schreiber will also discuss evidence that friendships and beTHE LOST SHACKS — Join us on Friday, April 3 from 1:30
longing to communities has major physical, psychological and
pm— 3:00 pm for a photographic journey across Truro and
emotional benefits for everyone. Please Rsvp to the MashProvincetown to visit dune shacks no longer existing in the
pee Senior Center, (508) 539-1440 or stop by the front desk
Cape Cod National Seashore. “The Dune Tramp” (Robby
to sign up. Everyone is welcome, but Mashpee residents will
McQueeney) will discuss each shack, giving a brief history
be given priority if needed.
along with interesting anecdotes. Rsvp’s appreciated. Please
DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING INDEPENDENT LIVING PRO- call (508) 539-1440 or stop by the front desk at the Senior
GRAM — Are you or a family member coping with hearing Center. Drop-in’s welcome.
loss? Join us on Tuesday, April 28, 1:30 – 3:30 pm, for a
NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) Are you a
presentation by The Cape Organization for Rights of the Disafriend or family member of someone with mental illness? A
bled (CORD). Learn how to make your home safe and accestwelve week “FAMILY to FAMILY” course by NAMI began in
sible for you. The presentation will provide you information
March and continues every Tuesday through June 16, from
on assistive listening devices, how to obtain them, and your
1:30 pm—4:00 pm. It teaches family members about various
rights to communication access. It will show you how to plan
illnesses, medications, empathy, communication skills and
for emergencies and create an emergency preparedness kit.
self-care. Please Rsvp at the Mashpee Senior Center or call
Rsvp’s appreciated. Please call the Mashpee Senior Center at
(508) 539-1440 for more information.
(508) 539-1440 or stop by the front desk to sign up. Drop-in’s
UTILITY BILL COUNSELING — Do you have questions regardwelcome!
ing your electricity or gas service, bill or rates? Are your bills a
ADVANCE CARE PLANNING: ESSENTIAL CONVERSATIONS
concern for you? If so, on Thursday, April 9, representatives
FOR PEACE OF MIND BEFORE THERE IS A MEDICAL CRISIS.
from EverSource will be here to counsel you from 9:30 am to
Join us on Friday, April 24th, 10:00 am at the Mashpee Senior
12:30 pm. They will be available by appointment only. Please
Center. We all need to have a health care proxy. But how
bring your utility bill with you. Please call (508) 539-1440 for
does your health care proxy know your wishes? We’ll explore
your reservation.
the value of the Five Wishes document as a communications
tool for families. By using this document, you can be more NATIVE POLLINATOR GARDENING TALK — Spring is finally
confident that your individual definition of quality of life is here! Join us on Thursday, April 16, 10:30-11:30 am. The
understood and honored, should it ever be medically needed. bee starts the pollination process without even realizing it!
Presented by Melissa Weidman, Director of Community Rela- Learn about how bees help your gardening process. Presenttions, HopeHealth. Rsvp’s appreciated. Please Rsvp at (508) ed by Mary Kay Fox, Friends of Mashpee National Wildlife
Refuge. Rsvp’s appreciated.
Page 2
Activity
Spotlights
Mashpee
Council On Aging
PARKINSON SUPPORT NETWORK OF CAPE COD—Karen Hanesian, Attorney at Law, will present “Elder Law: Decision
Making and Honoring Personal Preferences” at the Mashpee
Senior Center on Friday, April 10. Seating at 10:30 am; program starts 11:00 am. Reservations are required. To Rsvp,
contact the American Parkinson Disease Association Information & Referral Center (800) 651-8466 or information@apdama.org. To learn more about the network, visit
www.parkinsoncapecod.org.
60’S SOCIAL CLUB — If you are in your 60’s (60-69), please
join the Mashpee Senior Center’s 60’s Social Club. We meet
every 3rd Thursday of the month from 3:00—4:15 pm. This
month we will meet Thursday, April 16 — come socialize
with us! Couples, singles-doesn’t matter. Connect with people of like interests. Light refreshments served. Rsvp’s appreciated but not necessary.
DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM — Reduce your risk for
Type 2 Diabetes. Join us at the Senior Center on Tuesday,
April 21 at 2:30 pm or Thursday, April 23 at 10:30 am for an
information session about this YMCA program. For more
information call Patience Smith-Cabrera at 508.362.6500 x
136 or email pcabrera@ymcacapecod.org
LOW INCOME FREE ENERGY ASSESSMENT — HAC Energy
provides free energy assessments and other services to income-qualified homeowners and renters. Join us at the
Mashpee Senior Center on Tuesday, April 7, 1:30 pm —2:30
pm. To sign up, please call (508) 539-1440 or stop by the
front desk at the Senior Center.
MOVIES ARE HERE AT THE SENIOR CENTER! On each Friday,
we will be showing a movie for your viewing pleasure! Premovie socializing at 12:30 pm, movie starts at 1:00 pm. Light
movie refreshments will be served. Upcoming movies and
their rating:
April 3
27 Dresses (PG-13)
April 10
Twilight (PG-13)
April 17
Secret Life of Bees (PG-13)
April 24
Ali (R)
AGELESS YOGA — This gently-led Hatha yoga class is offered
Tuesdays from 3:00 pm — 4:00 pm at the Mashpee Senior
Center. Ageless Yoga is focused on stretching, improving balance and building strength in a calm, supportive atmosphere.
Students are encouraged to create an individual practice
even in this group setting. This allows each person to move
forward at their own pace. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or haven’t touched your toes in years, this class is
safe, beneficial and fun for all. Bring a mat; wear comfortable
clothes. For more info call Yoga Neighborhood at 774-2510370 or visit www.YogaNeighborhood.org.
WOODCARVING — Would you like to try your hand at
wood carving? Here’s your chance. We have a wood carving
group that meets every Tuesday morning at the Mashpee
Senior Center from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. No experience
necessary! Questions? Contact Anthony Cocuzzo, (508) 4196990.
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY (TOPS) — On every Monday at
10:30 am—12:00 noon there is a TOPS meeting at the Mashpee Senior Center. TOPS is a non-profit weight loss support
group that will help provide you with the support and ac-
April 2015
countability to make you successful. At 10:30 am there is a
weigh-in and meeting to follow. Please join us and learn what
TOPS is all about. There is a yearly fee. To sign up, please call
(508) 539-1440 or stop in any Monday at 10:30 am.
AEROBICS FOR THE BRAIN — Like our bodies, we need to
keep our minds fit. Join our Aerobics for the Brain program
on Tuesday, April 14th and 28th from 3:00 pm—4:00 pm.
Come join this fun, social group to help keep your mind sharp
and focused. To sign up, please call (508) 539-1440 or stop by
the front desk at the Senior Center.
SOCIAL CRIBBAGE — The Mashpee Senior Center is excited
to offer social cribbage from 10:00 am — 11:30 am on Thursdays. Come join this fun group! Rsvp’s appreciated; however,
drop-ins are always welcome. To sign up, please call (508)
539-1440 or stop by the front desk at the Senior Center.
SEA MIST SWIMMING — Sea Mist swimming program continues every Tuesday and Thursday from 11:00 — 2:00 pm.
Please note that you must be a senior from Mashpee, and
you must complete a liability form before swimming. For any
questions, please call (508) 539-1440 or stop by the front
desk at the Senior Center.
MASHPEE MEN’S CLUB — We invite retired or semi-retired
men over the age of 50 to join our club formed in 1997. We
meet at the Mashpee Senior Center on the first Tuesday of
each month starting with coffee at 10:00 am followed by a
brief business meeting and a speaker at 10:30 am.
For more information contact Deane Turner at
deane_turner@msn.com or Frank Lord at fjlord@msn.com.
MASHPEE MEN’S CLUB APRIL EVENTS — On April 7, at 10:30
am Club member and Vice Chairman of the Mashpee Finance
Committee Chuck Gasior will present an explanation of the
budget that will be voted on at the Mashpee Annual Town
Meeting. On April 20 they will tour the Blue Hill Meteorological Observatory founded in 1885 in Milton. The Observatory
is a National Historic Landmark and remains committed to
continuing its extensive, uninterrupted climate record with
traditional methods and instruments.
GAME AND CARD DAYS — Join us for game and card days:
Monday
12:30 — 4:00 Mah Jongg
1:00 — 4:00
Rummikub
1:00 — 3:00
Pinochle
Wednesday
1:00 — 3:00
Canasta
Thursday
10:00 — 11:30 Cribbage
1:00 — 4:00
Social Bridge
Friday
12:30 — 4:00 Mah Jongg
BOOK CLUB — Book Club meets on the third Friday of the
month at 2:00 pm. at the Senior Center. This month, however, the Book Club will meet on Friday, April 24th, at 2:00
p.m. at the Senior Center. Please note the change of date
from the third to the fourth Friday of the month for April
only. The April selection is Karin Slaughter’s “Cop Town,” a
story of young police officer Maggie Lawson and rookie Kate
Murphy, struggling to do their part in a citywide search for a
cop killer. Come join us!
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Mashpee Council On Aging
FREE GADGETS & PC CLINIC — Have your questions answered on Thursdays from 12:00 noon — 2:00 pm about your
gadgets, i.e. cell phones, GPS, or e-mail, Facebook, etc. Bring
your devices fully charged, power sources are limited. Call
before coming in to confirm session is meeting that day.
MASHPEE SINGING SENIORS — Come express your musical
soul through singing and join us, the Mashpee Singing Seniors. We welcome men and women to sing with us on Thursday mornings from 9:30 am — 11:00 am at the Mashpee Senior Center. We rehearse a variety of music, including pop and
Broadway, from September to June, and we sing to a variety
of appreciative audiences in Mashpee, Falmouth and Sandwich. You don’t need to be a Mashpee resident and there are
no auditions. Just stop by! We look forward to having you
and your joy of singing join us.
MEDITATION GROUP — On Wednesday, April 1st, and the
first Wednesday of each month from 1:00 pm—3:00 pm at
the Senior Center, the Meditation Group will be held by the
April 2015
Reiki Practitioners. There is no charge for this group and it is
open to all interested seniors. Meditation has been found to
have mental and physical health benefits. Please come and
give it a try.
PLEASE NOTE: VETERAN’S SERVICES appointments normally
held on April 17 will be held on April 16 from 1:00—3:00 pm.
ASK A PHARMACIST — Are you current on your vaccinations? On Wednesday, April 29th at 10:30 am, come find out
the new medical recommendations for vaccination guidelines. This will be an informational program focusing on a
select group of protective vaccinations important to the
health of seniors. Aspects will include clinical guidelines,
health benefits, potential adverse effects, costs and acquisition process. Rich Starzyk RPh, from Walgreens will be here
to discuss the latest available vaccinations. He will be able to
answer most of your vaccination questions. Rsvp’s appreciated; however, drop-ins are welcome.
Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength….Betty Friedan
AARP TAX-AIDE INCOME TAX PREPARATION PROGRAM
The Mashpee Senior Center is a site for the AARP Tax-Aide Income Tax Preparation Program.
The following is a message from the volunteers who conduct this program. The Tax-Aide Program has started at the Mashpee Senior center with the last available appointments on Monday, April 13. Appointments will
be available on Mondays and Fridays between 9:30 am and 1:00 pm.
MAKING APPOINTMENTS — Call the Senior Center at (508) 539-1440 to schedule your appointment. You will be given an
appointment time; no special requests for a particular tax preparer will be taken. After making your appointment, you must
stop by the Mashpee Senior Center to pick up the Income Tax Questionnaire, please fill out and bring to your appointment.
Please note: Appointments are limited and therefore will be prioritized for Mashpee Seniors. Residents from other towns
are likely to be put on a wait list.
WHAT ARE YOU REQUIRED TO BRING TO YOUR APPOINTMENT? — In order to protect your security, please bring your
Social Security card and a photo ID. Please also bring a copy of your last year’s tax related documents, including a copy of
your tax return, with you to the appointment. If you want to receive your return by direct deposit, you should also bring
your account number and routing number (a check from your checkbook will have this information.) Since there will be limited appointments available, it is important that you have all this documentation with you at the time of your appointment,
as there will be little opportunity to reschedule.
ABOUT YOUR APPOINTMENT — You will be contacted the day before your appointment to confirm your attendance. If
you don’t confirm your attendance, we will not be able to guarantee your appointment. Should you have any further questions regarding this program, please bring them to your appointment as Mashpee Senior Center staff is not able to answer
tax questions.
SHINE NEWS—DID YOU KNOW?
In 2013, Medicare paid about $604 billion for health services for approximately 51 million individuals. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) estimated that improper payments—some of which may be fraudulent—were almost
$50 billion. Fraud, waste, and abuse contribute to the rising cost of health care. Taxpayer dollars lost to fraud, waste, and
abuse affect all of us. You can help stop fraud and abuse by reviewing your Medicare statement (Medicare Summary Notice
– MSN) or Part D Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to make sure Medicare is not charged for items or services you did not receive. If you have a question or concern regarding a Medicare claim, you should first discuss it directly with your physician,
provider, or supplier that provided the service. Assistance is also available through the Massachusetts Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), which is a group of trained volunteers who teach Medicare beneficiaries how to protect their personal information, identify and report errors on their health care statements and report fraud and abuse to the proper authorities. You
can contact the Massachusetts SMP program at Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley, 1-800-892-0890.
For further assistance with any Medicare issue, contact the SHINE Program. Trained SHINE volunteers offer free, confidential counseling on all aspects of Medicare and related health insurance programs. Please call the Senior Center to schedule a
SHINE appointment at (508) 539-1440 or stop by the front desk to schedule.
Mashpee Council
onCouncil
Aging
Special Events
Mashpee
On Aging
Page 4
April 2015
Tuesday
March 31— June 16
NAMI “Family to Family” Course
1:30 pm—4:00 pm
Friday
April 3
The Lost Shacks
1:30 pm— 3:00 pm
Tuesday
April 7
Low Income Free Energy Assessment
1:30 pm—2:30 pm
Thursday
April 9
Utility Bill Counseling
9:30 am—12:30 pm
Friday
April 10
Elder Law: Decision Making and Honoring Personal Preferences
10:30 am—1:30 pm
Tuesday
April 14
Mashpee Information Session—Agencies that provide services for
Mashpee residents
10:00 am — 12:00
noon
Thursday
April 16
Native Pollinator Gardening
10:30 am—11:30 am
Friday
April 17
The Power of Connection: Friendship’s Benefits as We Age
1:30 pm—4:00 pm
Friday
April 24
Advance Care Planning: Essential Conversations for Peace of Mind
Before There is a Crisis
10:00 am — 11:00 am
Tuesday
April 28
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Independent Living Program
1:30 pm — 3:30 pm
Wednesday
April 29
Ask a Pharmacist
10:30 am — 11:30 am
Mashpee Council on Aging Regular Events
8:30-9:30
9:45-11:00
10:00-11:30
10:30-12:00
10:00-11:30
10:00-1:00
11:00-12:00
12:30-4:00
1:00-3:00
1:00-4:00
3:00-4:00
Group (4th)
MONDAYS
Strength Training
Gentle Yoga
Knit/Crochet/Quilt
TOPS
Atty Kosman (4th)
Grief Counseling (2nd)
Chair Yoga
Mah Jongg
Pinochle
Rummikub
Hearing Loss Support
THURSDAYS
8:30-9:30
Exercise
9:30-11:30 Mashpee Singing Seniors
10:00-11:30 Cribbage
10:00-11:30 Parkinson’s Support
Group(2nd)
11:00-2:00 Seamist Swimming
12:00-2:00 Gadgets & PC Clinic
12:15-1:15 Ballroom Dancing
1:00-4:00
Social Bridge
1:30-3:30
Hearing Tests (2nd)
1:30-2:30
Tap Dancing
3:00-4:15
60’s Social Club (3rd)
7:00-9:30 Tai Chi (Beginners
please come 1st Thurs)
TUESDAYS
8:30-9:30 Exercise
9:00-12 :00 Woodcarving
9:00-11:00 Atty Mello (2nd)
10:00-11:30 Men’s Club (1st&3rd)
11:00-12:00 Zumba Gold
11:00-2:00 Seamist Swimming
1:00-3:00 Photography Club (4th)
1:00-3:00 Atty Lavender (1st)
3:00-4:00 Ageless Yoga
3:00-4:00 Aerobics for the Brain (2nd
& 4th)
FRIDAYS
8:30-9:30 Strength Training
9:30
Bowling Club-Ryan Amusement
10:00-12:00 Sight Loss Services (4th)
10:00-12:30 Reiki Clinic (3rd)
10:30-11:30 Ask-A-Nurse (4th)
11:00-12:00 Zumba Gold
12:30-4:00 Mah Jongg
1:15 Veterans Services (1st&3rd)
2:00 Book Club (3rd) (FOR APRIL
ONLY, WILL MEET THE 4TH FRIDAY,
APRIL 24)
WEDNESDAYS
8:30-9:30 Strength Training
9:00-10:00 Blood Pressure Clinic (3rd)
9:00-3:00 Foot Care Clinic (3rd)
10-Noon & 1:00-3:00 Painting
11:00-12:00 Zumba Gold
11:00-12:30 CARES Support Group
(2&4)
1:00-2:00
Line Dancing
1:00-3:00
Canasta
1:00-3:00
Meditation (1st)
2:00-3:30
CARES Support Group
(2nd&4th)
2:30
Tai Chi for Healthy Aging
SATURDAYS
8:30-9:30 Exercise
Transportation is available for activities, either through our van or Cape
Cod Regional Transit Authority at 1800-352-7155
*There may be a cost for an instructor,
please call Christine Foisy, Activity Director, at 539-1440 ext 3512 for more
information on activities
Save the Dates! More info in the May Newsletter!
May 12
AARP Safe Driving Course
May 19
May 12
Quarterly Birthday Party (for April, May 21
May, and June birthday folks)
Honor Flight: Honoring WWII
Veterans Video
May 14
Lost and Found - Thomas Toby
House Dig Site Archeology Talk
Golf from a Sports Writer’s
Point of View Talk
May 22
Cooking Safety Presentation by Fridays Balance Classes
Mashpee Fire Chief
in May Resume
Fridays Movies at the Senior
in May Center
Page 5
Mashpee Council On Aging
April 2015
DID YOU KNOW...That Elder Services of Cape Cod and Islands does a luncheon at the Mashpee
Senior Center on Monday - Friday at 11:30 am? The lunch is by donation and is fun and social.
Come for an activity in the morning and stay for lunch! Make a day of activity at the Senior Center!
You need to call (508) 477-0910 or go to the website: www.escci.org 24 hours in advance to reserve
a meal. If you have questions, call Annette at the Nutrition Center at (508) 477-0910.
Health, Wellness and Appointments
ASK-A-NURSE
KATHY GANEY-RN VNA OF CAPE COD
Kathy will be available Friday April 24, 10:00 am — 11:00 am
for your questions.
Embarrassing moments? Many problems that we experience in life come under the category of “embarrassing.” Persons living with “bladder problems “often times live in fear of
having an accident due to urinary leakage. However, various
therapies, medications and bladder training can help you
gain better control over your bladder. Your doctor or urologist can help put together a plan specific to your needs. You
can also boost your confidence in getting out and about by:
 Scouting your destination — Once you arrive at your
destination, locate the restroom
 Locating a convenient spot — Select a location to stand
or sit that allows you to easily get away to go to the restroom. Select seating by the aisle at church or at a
movie theater. If dining out, avoid getting seated in a
booth or a corner.
 Avoiding or limiting bladder irritants — Caffeine, citrus
juices, carbonated beverages, alcoholic beverages, and
tobacco products are known bladder irritants that may
be best avoided before your outing.
 Wearing the right clothing — Attire that does not require a belt may be more practical
 Having a supply of pads — Pads specifically designed for
urinary leakage are often very discreet and can easily fit
into a purse or small backpack.
 Having a change of clothes — If an accident does happen, this allows you to avoid going home
 Having a purse, bag or sweater tied around your waist
— Should an accident or leak occur, this allows you to
cover up on your way to the restroom.
HEARING LOSS SUPPORT GROUP — Leanne Fletcher, Au.D,
Doctor of Audiology, leads this group on the 4th Monday of
each month from 3:00 — 4:00 pm. They will meet on Monday, April 27th. This group welcomes all individuals, including
those with hearing loss as well as their family, caregivers, or
anyone else affected by hearing loss. To sign up, please call
(508) 539-1440 or stop by the front desk at the Senior Center.
HEARING TESTS — Thursday, April 9, 1:30 — 3:30 pm by appointment. Please call the Mashpee Senior Center at (508)
539-1440 or stop by for more information.
CARES Program
Hope Dementia and Alzheimer’s Services
This program is specifically for people with memory impairment and their care partners.
CARES provides an opportunity for families affected by
memory impairment to participate in two separate support
groups-held simultaneously-which provide information, guidance, and respite to Care Partners; and, conversation and
socialization for those with memory impairment. There are
two sessions available to choose from at the Senior Center.
Both are on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month. One is
at 11:00 am -12:30 pm and the other is 2:00 pm — 3:30pm.
This month the meetings will be on April 8 and April 22. To
register or for more information please call Hope Dementia
& Alzheimer's Services at (508) 775-5656.
BEREAVEMENT COUNSELING — Have you or someone you
love experienced a death or loss? Lyn Chafetz, LICSW is a
Bereavement Counselor with Hope Health’s Community Care
Services and is available to hear your concerns and answer
your questions in a confidential and supportive environment
on Monday, April 13, from 10:00 am — 1:00 pm. Please call
the Senior Center at (508) 539-1440 to make an appointment.
SIGHT LOSS SERVICES PEER SUPPORT GROUP — This support group meets at the Mashpee Senior Center on the 4th
Friday of every month from 10:00 am—12:00 noon (April 24).
This group is open to anyone with vision issues from diagnosis to legal blindness and provides access and information on
services available. For more information, call Sight Loss Services at 508-394-3904 or visit their website: www.jwen.com/
sls/ .
FOOT CARE—Wednesday, April 15, by Appointment. There is
a fee. Call the Mashpee Senior Center at (508) 539-1440 to
make an appointment.
LEGAL ASSISTANCE — We are fortunate to have attorneys
that visit the Senior Center on a monthly basis. The Attorney
and the fields that each would feel most qualified to assist
seniors with, BY APPOINTMENT ONLY are:
Atty. Thomas Kosman: 4th Mondays at 10:00 am - Housing problems, government benefits, health law, guardianship, reverse mortgage, and consumer issues.
Atty. Michael Lavender: 1st Tuesday at 1:00 pm - General legal problems, trusts, wills, estate planning and
settlement.
Atty. Patricia Mello’s office: 2nd Tuesday at 9:00 am Wills, health care choices, nursing home/Medicaid planning, estate planning, asset protection, guardianships.
Please try to consider the urgent questions that you have
and try to choose the appropriate attorney. PLEASE NOTE:
The lawyers do not handle questions regarding criminal
matters.
Page 6
Mashpee Council
On Aging
Darlene Perkins’
Outreach
Corner
Mashpee COA Outreach Program Mission
Statement:
To assist seniors in our community to find
the resources they need to help them
make the best choices to maintain the
highest quality of life possible.
APRIL IS STRESS AWARENESS MONTH!
The winter of 2015 has stressed us all out, so stop by the outreach office of the Mashpee Senior Center and pick up a relaxation tool. We have a limited supply of Relax a pocket
minder card. A credit card sized guide to managing your
stress and keeping your life on track!
UTILITY SHUT-OFFS
If you are facing a utility shut-off, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at (617) 727-8400. The AGO may be
able to provide additional information and/or mediation services to assist you in resolving your situation. You may also
wish to consult your own attorney. If you decide to seek legal
representation but do not have your own attorney, you may
wish to contact the Massachusetts Lawyer Referral Service at
(617) 654-0400.
 Home Heating - Under certain circumstances, a gas or
electric heating provider is not allowed to shut off your
heat, even for non-payment. You must be unable to pay
your bill because of financial hardship and certify to one
of the following circumstances: 1. Everyone in the house
is over 65, or 2. All adults living in the home are over 65
and a minor child resides in the home, or 3. You or
someone who lives in the home is seriously ill, or 4.
There is a child under the age of one living in the home.
 Qualified customers should contact their energy service
company and explain the situation. The company is likely
to ask for information such as written proof of illness
from a physician and/or proof of inability to pay based on
income
April 2015
COME IN FOR YOUR BENEFITS CHECKUP!
Are you struggling to make ends meet? As the cost of living is
rising and your income is remaining the same, you may be
entitled to some help! Make an appointment to fill out the
Benefits Check-up on line. Benefits Checkup is a free online
service that helps seniors find and enroll in benefits to help
pay for food, medicine, heat and more. Let’s find out if you
qualify for benefits!
We have a volunteer who will be at the senior center the first
and third Tuesdays of the month to help you fill out the
online questionnaire. She will help you fill out any applications that may apply to you. Every little bit helps, call the
Mashpee Senior Center at (508) 539-1440 to make your appointment.
MASHPEE LEGACY PROGRAM
Are you over 85 years of age and would like to have your life
story written up? We have a lovely volunteer who can help
you write up highlights of your life to share with family,
friends, and/or the Senior Center in our library. For an interview call Darlene Perkins, Outreach Coordinator at (508) 5391440.
LOOKING FOR A FRIENDLY VISITOR?
Are you feeling isolated? Would you welcome a smiling face
and someone new to talk to? Then a Friendly Visitor may be
just what the “doctor” ordered!
Call Darlene Perkins, Outreach Coordinator at (508) 539-1440
to set up a visit with one of our volunteers.
LIBRARY BOOK DELIVERY
If you are homebound and/or have difficulty going to the library, we offer a library book delivery service to you. A volunteer will pick up and return to the library any books, DVDs,
tapes, etc. that you would like. Please call Darlene Perkins at
(508) 539-1440 if you are interested.
Volunteer Coordinator Deborah Converse’s Corner
New Volunteers
Added
to
our
ranks
this
month are: Kim Briggs, Art Lash, Sam
Samuelson, and Robert Vesprini.
We have formed a committee to help with the organization
for the Volunteer Recognition. This group of volunteers will
help collect volunteers hours and organize other details related to the luncheon.
The Volunteer Recognition will be held Friday, June 12 at
New Seabury Country Club. We ask that all volunteers and
volunteer supervisors please make sure that hours worked
are recorded and given to the Volunteer Coordinator by April
1. (You may need to estimate the number of hours you will
volunteer for May and June, based on your past volunteer
hours). Volunteers who attend the Volunteer Recognition
Luncheon generally volunteer 25 hours during the course of
the year, July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015.
Volunteers Needed
With the help of volunteer Jean Clair, the Senior Center has
kept an historical scrapbook tracking articles of interest to
the Center. We are looking for someone to take over this
task for her.
Friendly Visiting is an important part of the Outreach offered
through the Center. If you are interested in visiting or driving
people to medical appointments, give Deb a call at (508) 4391440, extension 3508.
As always, if you have any special skills, talents or interests
you would like to share with other seniors at Mashpee Senior
Center please let me know.
A reminder
For those who drive people to appointments we will need
your updated paperwork. Please send it in if you haven’t
done so already.
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Mashpee Council On Aging
April 2015
April is officially designated as Volunteer Month. The Mashpee Senior Center will honor our
volunteers at a luncheon on June 12, 2015, but we want to take this opportunity to
acknowledge all of our volunteers during April, National Volunteer Month.
There are more than 200 people who volunteer helping seniors through the Mashpee Senior
Center. One of the greatest aspects of volunteerism is that there are so many
different ways to do it, and sometimes, we volunteer without even making a conscious connection of it -- for example, helping out a friend or our church or synagogue. Sometimes we can only
fit in one hour, maybe packing up luncheons for Meals-on-Wheels. These acts all deserve to be applauded. Our
applause goes to all of our volunteers!
As a “Thank You” to our wonderful volunteers, all volunteer names will automatically be entered into a drawing for
a beautiful plant from Verde Floral Designs in Mashpee Commons. The drawing will be held at the end of the
month.
Emergency Preparedness
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS - The Mashpee Council on Aging maintains a list of
seniors who are homebound, and/or frail
to help the town provide assistance to
them during a civil defense emergency
such as hurricane or blizzard. If you
would like to be on the list, please call the Senior Center at
(508) 539-1440 and request a simple registration form for
you to complete and return. Should you need assistance
completing the form, please call Outreach Coordinator, Darlene Perkins.
FUEL ASSISTANCE - The low income Home Energy Assistance
Program (LIHEAP), more commonly known as the Fuel Assistance Program, provides low–income households with help in
paying heating bills. SSCAC, Inc. provides fuel assistance to
residents of 38 communities of the South Shore and Cape &
Islands towns.
Am I Eligible to Receive Fuel Assistance? - Eligibility is
based on gross income, household size and vulnerability
to heating costs. Fuel Assistance can assist with any primary heat type: oil, natural gas, electricity, propane, kerosene, wood or coal. In Massachusetts, the eligible income
guidelines extend to households with incomes up to
$32,618.00 for 1 member, up to $42,654.00 for 2 members.
The program is winding down for the 2015 Winter Season
and will end on April 30. If you are still interested in participating and have not applied, please contact the Mashpee Senior Center at (508) 539-1440 to make an appointment to fill out an application. If you have any questions,
please contact Darlene Perkins at the Senior Center (508)
539-1440.
DISABILITY INDICATOR FORM - Are you a disabled elder?
Disabilities would include life support system, mobility impaired, blind, deaf and hard of hearing, teletypewriter,
speech impaired, cognitive impairment, etc.
If you have any of the listed disabilities, Clay Nicholson,
Mashpee’s 911 Municipal Coordinator, recommends that a
9-1-1 DISABILITY INDICATOR FORM be completed and forwarded to him so that if an emergency occurs, public safety
officials will be alerted that an individual residing at your address communicates over the phone via TTY and/or has a
disability that may hinder evacuation or transport. This information is confidential and will only appear at the dispatcher’s
location when a 911 call originates from your address. Please
contact Clay Nicholson, (508) 539-1400 ext. 8499 with any
questions and to pick up a form. You can also pick up this
form at the Mashpee Senior Center.
REVERSE 911 - Did you know that you could receive automated messages by phone from the Town, helping you with
storm preparedness? If you do not already receive important/emergency messages from the Town, or if you want
to edit your contact info, please go to the Town website:
www.mashpeema.gov, and select “Automated Messages Sign
-Up Here” box on the lower left. Select a “resident” button
on the left and enter your contact information here so local
leadership may contact you with timely, important messages.
THE FILE OF LIFE & THE PET FILE OF LIFE
The “File of Life®” is a miniature medical history file that is
posted on the outside of your refrigerator, and a smaller version which is placed either in your wallet or the glove compartment of your vehicle. In the event of an emergency,
E.M.T’s, Firefighters and Police Officers who are dispatched
to your home or vehicle will know where to find it. For any
questions, please contact Darlene Perkins.
The “Pet File of Life” is similar to your own “File of Life”, but
for your pet. It will contain such information as: diet, emergency contact, veterinarian, health concerns. Keeping this
form with your File of Life will help people to respond appropriately in an emergency. Please pick up a card, courtesy of
the Companion Animal Program, at the Front Desk.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS, PLEASE VISIT WWW.MASS.GOV/MEMA.
Or
Follow the Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning
Committee at their Twitter @bcrepc and like their Facebook
page at facebook.com/bcrepc.
Page 8
Mashpee Council On Aging
April 2015
There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring
to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source,
you will truly have defeated age. ...Sophia Loren
Whether sixty or sixteen, there is in every human being's heart the lure of wonder, the unfailing child-like appetite of what's next, and the joy of the game of
living. In the center of your heart and my heart there is a wireless station; so long as it receives messages of beauty, hope, cheer, courage and power from men and from the infinite, so long are you young....-- Samuel Ullman
FUTURE PROGRAMMING: WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR GOOD IDEAS AND NEW SUGGESTIONS! Do you have a program you wish us to present? How about programs you would like to see offered? Let Christine Foisy, Activities Coordinator, know your thoughts! You can reach her at (508) 539-1440, x3512.
TRAVEL CLUB NEWS
Foxwoods "Spring Fling" includes free slots and lunch bonus, 4/14, $32; Dirty Dancing at PPAC & Providence Place, orchestra
seats, 4/26, $105; Art In Bloom at Museum of Fine Arts, 4/27, $55; "In The Mood" Big Band Show & Fanieul Hall, 5/21, $95;
Boston Pops "Film Night" with John Williams, 1st balcony, 5/22, $105; Cirque de la Symphonie" with the Boston Pops, 1st
balcony, 6/12, $99; Rhode Island Flower Show 20th Anniversary, 6/19, $55; Red Sox vs Baltimore, day game, PB 13-unobstructed and covered, 6/25, $135; For a complete listing of all our trips stop by the Mashpee Senior Center or visit
www.adventureswithkarynwendell.com. Karyn is here every Thursday from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. For more information,
please contact Karyn Wendell at (508) 420-5288. Mail payments for travel c/o Karyn Wendell, P. O. Box 161, Centerville, MA
02632
Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the
sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love!...Sitting Bull
VAN SERVICE
Are you getting tired of driving? Reluctant to drive in bad weather? Or just trying to save on
gas? Don’t be shy, give us a try; you’re sure to love our van service! We will pick you up and
drop you off at your door! Here is our schedule, come join us!
 MASHPEE — Weekly — Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays (except last Friday
of month) PLEASE MAKE MASHPEE medical appointments between 10:00 am and 1:30
pm
 FALMOUTH — Weekly — Tuesdays PLEASE MAKE FALMOUTH medical appointments
between 10:30 am and Noon.
 HYANNIS — Once a month — 1st Thursday of each month PLEASE MAKE HYANNIS medical appointments between
10:30am and Noon.
 SAGAMORE — Once a month — 2nd Thursday of each month
 SPECIAL MONTHLY OUTING — On the last Friday of each month, you can ride the van to our “Day Trip Town of the
Month”. When you reserve your spot on the van, let us know where you would like to go in that town. Perhaps you
want to shop at a special store that you normally don’t have the chance to visit, or see a physician. Maybe you have a
friend who is recuperating in a rehabilitation or assisted living facility in the town who you would like to visit. When
you call in to reserve your seat, also be ready to let the receptionist know where you want to go! This month we will
be going to WAREHAM for our outing!
The van will take you wherever you wish to go in each town it serves.
To schedule rides, please call our receptionist at (508) 539-1440. Our van cannot guarantee time of pick up or drop off.
Van is handicapped-accessible with wheelchair lift. Van rides are free of charge. Donations are gratefully accepted. If we are
not able to meet your transportation need, please call the Cape’s public transportation service, the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority at 1-800-352-7155 for a ride.
Page 9
Mashpee Council On Aging
April 2015
MASHPEE POLICE DEPARTMENT’S
TIP OF THE MONTH
MASHPEE POLICE REASSURANCE PROGRAM
This is a program managed in conjunction by the Mashpee
Police Department and the Mashpee Senior Center that
connects seniors of our community with the police departMashpee Police Department is now on Facebook! Please ment with a daily check-in call by the senior to ensure
check us out for the latest information and updates in there have been no emergencies. If you are feeling alone
Mashpee. Any questions please contact Special Officer and are concerned about your well being, you can join the
and Advocate Tara Carline at 508-539-1480, ext. 7253
program by contacting Outreach Coordinator, Darlene
Perkins.
Spring has returned. The Earth is like a child that knows poems….Rainer Maria Rilke
THE CAPERS’ DOINGS
On April 13, David Polanski, story teller, musician, and vocalist, will entertain us royally at the Mashpee Senior Center. Everyone is invited to see the show! Socialize with friends known and new afterwards. Refreshments will be served.
Keep checking the bulletin board at the entrance of the Senior Center for more details of our active group.
Page 10
Mashpee Council On Aging
April 2015
BROADCAST E-MAIL - When you signed up to receive the Senior Center newsletter, you gave us your email. In an effort to
give you the most up-to-date information on Senior Center events, we will be emailing you from time to time regarding last
minute schedule changes and/or updated information. Currently, we only have a small percentage of emails that are working. Please give your email to the Mashpee Senior Center so that we may update our information and keep you informed.
To get a digital copy of this newsletter, visit www.mashpeema.gov/Pages/MashpeeMP_Aging/index and click the newsletter
link at the bottom of the page, which will take you to the most recently published newsletter.
If you wish to honor a loved one, the Mashpee Senior Center offers commemorative gold and silver leaves, prominently
displayed in the entry foyer, beautifully engraved to memorialize family and/or friends. We also etch permanent patio
bricks, preserving names and sentiments, on the patio area outside. For more information, please call the Director, Lynne
Waterman at (508) 539-1440.
Lynne Waterman, Director ………………………...………………………..……….………..…….lwaterman@mashpeema.gov
Darlene Perkins, Outreach Coordinator………………………………………………………...…..dperkins@mashpeema.gov
Linda Wicks, Principal Clerk …………………………………………………………………………..........lwicks@mashpeema.gov
Lisbeth Dineen, Office Assistant…………………………………………..…………….……cofficeassistant@mashpeema.gov
Peggy Rose, Receptionist..………………….……………………………………………………………...….prose@mashpeema.gov
Deborah Converse, Volunteer Coordinator……………………………………………………..dconverse@mashpeema.gov
Christine Foisy, Activity Coordinator…………….…………………………………….…………..……..cfoisy@mashpeema.gov
Robert Morton, Van Driver………………………….……………………………………..………...…..rmorton@mashpeema.gov
Lewis Newell, Van Driver…………………………….………………………………….…………………...lnewell@mashpeema.gov
MASHPEE COUNCIL ON AGING MISSION STATEMENT:
The Council on Aging is an organized commitment by the population of the Town of Mashpee to coordinate
or carry out human service, educational, social and recreational services and programs designed to identify
and address opportunities and solutions for the empowerment and betterment of the senior community.
Our Core Values
RESPECTFUL
WELCOMING
SUPPORTIVE
The cost of mailing this newsletter has been paid
by the Friends of the Mashpee Council on Aging.
Lynne Waterman, Director
Darlene Perkins, Outreach Coordinator
Irving Goldberg, Chairperson, Council on Aging
PRSRT STD
U. S. POSTAGE
PAID
MASHPEE, MA
PERMIT NO. 15
MASHPEE COUNCIL ON AGING
26 FRANK E. HICKS DRIVE
Mashpee, MA 02649
DISCLAIMER
The Mashpee 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
Mashpee Council on Aging, The Mashpee Senior Center, the Town of Mashpee or its employees do not assume any legal responsibility for any advice or services rendered by such volunteer or nominal practitioner. Any act or advice or service by outside providers at the Council on Aging should not be presumed to be endorsed & sponsored by the Council on Aging.