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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-02-00-COA-newsletterLexington Senior Center & Social Services Newsletter NON - PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID BOSTON, MA 59348 Return Service Requested I February 2006 1475 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA 02420 Phone: 781 - 861 -0194 I Issue 303 http: / /ci.lexington.ma.us FAX: 781 - 863 -2271 DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL SERVICES Lauren MacNeil lmacneil @ci.lexington.ma.us Senior Center Show Polic OFFICE MANAGER If the Lexington Schools are closed due to snow, all COA programming and Dianne Snell dsnell @ci.lexington.ma.us lunches (including Meals on Wheels) will also be cancelled. Senior Center Staff will SOCIAL SERVICES COORDINATOR make every effort to be at the center during the day to answer any questions. Please Kelly Magee use your judgment about venturing out on snowy days as your safety is important to us. kmagee @ci.lexington. ma.us SOCIAL SERVICES NURSE Charlotte Rodgers Chinese New Year Celebration crodgers @ci.lexington.ma.us —2006— PROGRAM CLERK Sue Hayes shayes @ci.lexington.ma.us Year o f the D - 4704 NUTRITION SITE MANAGER Wednesday, February 1, 2006 9:30 a.m. 11:30 p.m. We will be presenting a host Muriel Meade of cultural activities. Activities will include a Traditional Stage Show with Tai Chi, SUPPORTIVE DAY CARE Chinese Music and Dancing and a Rice Flour Craft. A Chinese Lunch catered by Carolyn GriiffIth Yangtze River Restaurant will be served. Register with the receptionist $5.00. g g p cgriffit�g@c . to ma.us All regular scheduled programs will be cancelled until 1: 00 p.m. VETERANS'AGENT Winston "Pat" Flynn February Luncheons at the Seni Cen ter YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES COORDINATOR Va l en tine 's D ay Luncheon ... ... ...... Becky Rushford brushford @ci.lexington.ma.us Tuesday, February 14, 2006 at 11:30 a.m. 781-861 -242 Catered b Via La o. Menu includes Chicken Pasta Soup, Choice: Smoked y g p� COUNCIL ON AGING Turkey with Swiss Cheese and Garlic Mayonnaise, Virginia Ham and Brie, Fresh Betty Borghesani Marian Cohen, Chair Mozzarella, Basil, Tomato and Olive Oil and Tuna Salad. Dessert and Beverage. Bob Edwards Dan Fenn Register with the receptionist by February 10, 2006. $3.00. Donald Graham Paul Lapointe Leo McSweeney COA Sponsors Candidates Forum Frieda Oliner Jane Trudeau Wednesda y Februar 8th 9:00 a, m. Y' FRIENDS OF THE The Council on Aging will sponsor a Candidate's Forum at the Senior Center to give COUNCIL ON AGING seniors and others an opportunity to learn more about the candidates and local issues. Mark Barons Marie Hill In attendance to explain their positions and answer questions will be Selectman, School Susan O'Keefe Julie Miller Committee and Planning Board candidates. All are welcome. SELECTMAN LIAISON Richard Pagett 2 LEXINGTON SENIOR CENTER NEWS FEBRUARY 2006 Trusts and Probate. Tuesdays, 9:30 am-1 1:30 am. Trust and Probate is an ongoing member - directed class which discusses the use of wills, trusts, and probate in estate planning, as well as many aspects of senior living and town affairs. Class members all contribute to the discussions with their experience and points of view. World Affairs Study Group. Tuesdays, 2:00 pm. The World Affairs Group continues to meet in the Conference room. Dr. Rathore has returned and will be leading the group. The format is discussion about world affairs and current issues in the US. New people are always welcome. Beginner Quilting. Thursdays, January 5-February 23rd. 1:00 pm Students will learn the basics of quilting, including both hand and machine piecing. Register with receptionist. $42.00 Advanced Quilting. Thursdays, January 5-February 23rd 9:00 am Students will continue to explore advanced machine quilting techniques. We will design sampler type Quilts using varied block shapes and sizes. Register with Receptionist. $42.00 Computer Club Wednesday, February 15th, 9:45a.m. -11:00 a.m. Presenta- tion by Ted Wolfstich, Financial Consultant from Charles Schwab organization. Afternoon Movies Monday, February 13,1:15 pm - In Good Company - Dan Foreman (Dennis Quaid) is headed for a shakeup. He is demoted from head of ad sales for a major magazine when the company he works for is acquired in a corporate takeover. His new boss Carter Duryea (Topher Grace) if half his age —a business school prodigy who preaches corporate synergy. While Dan develops clients through handshake deals and relation- ships, Carter cross - promotes the magazine with a cell phone division. Rated PG -13 . Tuesday, February 21,1:15 pm - March of the Penguins Documentary film with a stunning insider's look at the life ofthe emperor penguin. This product of more than a year of filming in the brutal Antarctic ice, presents never - before - captured footage of the penguin's underwater life and explores their steadfast quest for monogamous mares. Not Rated Movies are provided by the generosity of Video Smith. Tussie Mussie, Thursday, Feb. 23rd, 10:00 a.m. EVERY- THING IS COMING UP ROSES: A ribbon rose pin work- shop. Learn to make a lovely ribbon rose pin with leaves using richly -hued French wire ribbon.You will leave with a com- pleted pin. This workshop involves some sewing so please bring a sewing needle and scissors. Register with Receptionist. Cost is $5.00. Space is limited. Lexington Veteran's Association. Monday, Febru- ary 13, 1:15 pm at Cary Memorial Library (Meeting Room), in Lexington Center, at 1874 Massachusetts Avenue. Our speaker will be Michael Terry and his topic will be the Lockheed P -3 8 fighter in World War II. Mr. Terry is an accomplished speaker and expert on the P38, the most effective long range fighter in WWII. Please join us. Veterans, friends and all interested people are invited to attend this free program. Coffee is generously provided by Starbucks (Lexington Cen- ter) and cookies /cake will be served. Art History Slide Presentation and Lecture with Gershon Weisenberg, Friday, February 17th 10:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. This months presentation will be "Women Artist's ofthe 20th Century ". A brief introduc- tion will be followed by a slide presentation after which Mr. Weisenberg will facilitate discussion. Register with the receptionist. $1 per person. Registration is limited to 40. Creative Craft Class, with Anne Rasis, Tuesday, Feb- ruary 21st, 9:30 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Card, Ornament or Mini Photo-Album—Learn to fold and assemble card stock which can then be used as a card, mobile or mini photo- album. Bring any used Christmas cards to turn this into a Christmas album or ornament. There will be a cost of $1.00. Register in advance with receptionist. Looking for something fun to do with your grandchil- dren over February vacation!! Please join us as we show "Madagascar" (rated PG) at Cary Memorial Library's Meeting Room on Friday, February 24th beginning at 1:00 p.m. Enjoy some snacks while watching the film. Space is limited to 40. Call the Senior Center (781) 861 -0194 to pre - register for both adults and accompanying children. Low Vision and Aging - Andrea Schein, Massachu- setts Commission for the Blind - Tuesday, February 7th 1:00 pm –2:30 pm. Everybody finds that their vision changes as they get older. Some changes are normal; but, some changes are associated with age - related diseases, like macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataract, or diabetic eye disease. In this program, you will learn more about theses conditions, as well as benefits and services available through the Com- mission for the Blind and other agencies. You will have an opportunity to try helpful and interesting aids and devices. Andrea Schein is a public education consultant for the BRIDGE Elder Blind Program at the Massachu- setts Commission for the Blind. Please call (781)861- 0194 to pre- register. FEBRUARY 2006 LEXINGTON SENIOR CENTER NEWS 3 "Un derstan ding the Mind-Body Connection Workshop " Monday, February 6 1h 10 to 11 am in the Classroom at the Lexington Senior Center. Free. Class size is limited. Pre - registration is required. Come and join our pre- senter, Lexington resident and psychologist Doris Berkstresser, as she explores the concept of the connec- tions between our body, mind and spirit. This class will discuss the differences between "alternative and integra- tive" medicine, explain the mind /body connection theory, discuss stress related health problems and explore vari- ous coping skills and techniques. Doris has a private practice in Lexington, and she focuses on the use of relaxation and hypnosis techniques for stress related problems, weight control and habit reduction. A portion of the workshop will include an opportunity to experi- ence /practice relaxation technique, and there will be plenty of time for questions as well. For more informa- tion and to sign up, please call the Lexington Senior Center at 781- 861 -0194. Grandparenting Support Group " Grandparenting with Love and Logic" Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m. starting February 7th February 28th in the Confer- ence room at the Senior Center. Based on "Grandparenting with Love and Logic" by Fay and Cline "Parenting experts Jim Fay and Foster W. Cline, M.D., grandparents themselves, have combined to offer sen- sible, easy -to -use techniques based upon their unique Love and Logic philosophy of working with children." The book guides us through grandparenting in today's world where grandparents are more important than ever. Join with other grandparents for lively and supportive conversations. The group will be facilitated by Marilyn Campbell, grandmother, Lexington resident, and geron- tologist. Space (and books) are limited. Register with the receptionist. Copies of the book are available to borrow from the Senior Center, thanks to the generosity of the Friends of the Council on Aging. Help Preparing your Income Taxes Sponsored by AARP /IRS, trained Tax -Aide volunteers will again be available to help prepare your Federal and State income taxes for those over 60 with incomes under $50,000. Sessions will start February 22. Appointments are required and may be scheduled after February 1 st. Call the receptionist at 781- 861 -0194 to schedule an appointment. CPR Training for Grandparents and others. Thursday, February 16th 9:00 a.m.- 1:00p.m. We are once again offering this popular course for seniors who are interested in learning CPR for infants and children, and adults. This class is for anyone who may be babysitting grandchildren, and want to learn the basics for CPR and first aid for choking. Our instructor will be Norm Porter, RN, from New En- gland CPR and First Aid. Participants will be certi- fied by the American Heart Association in Infant and Child and community CPR. Norm is a skilled pre- senter and trainer, and makes learning CPR fun! One class only, class will be limited to 10 participants. There is no cost for this class, but you must sign up with the receptionist. If you have any questions about this program, please call Charlotte Rodgers, RN at 781- 861 -0194. R E I K I HEALING TOUCH THERAPIES Relieves Pain •Reduces Stress Promotes a Feeling of Well -being Rosemarie Bass, Reiki Master (781) 862 -4292 gift certificates available Count (40e' ifds C V AA1 3 REHAB /L /TA T /ON WA V, WOBURN, MA Independent & Assisted Living For a Tour Phone Get Wise ... Advertise! LONGMEADOW PLACE An Independent and Assisted Living Residence Pathways Program for the Memory Impaired Call for a Tour 781- 270 -9008 • 800 -854 -0576 Located directly across from the Lahey Clinic 42 Mall Rd., Burlington, MA 01803 www.newtonseniorliving.com Call Senior Citizen Publishing 617 - 254 -4545 SENIOR CITIZEN PUBLISHING • 1505 COMMONWEALTH AVENUE BOSTON, MA 02135 (617) 254 -4545 4 LEXINGTON SENIOR CENTER NEWS FEBRUARY 2006 Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs The New Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage is available to all Medicare Beneficiaries beginning January 1, 2006. Extra help is available to pay for a Medicare prescription drug plan for people with limited income and assets. If you are eligible, you will have very low premiums and co- payments. An application for this "extra help" may have been mailed to you by the Social Security Administration. If you do not have a copy of this "extra help" form, call Social Security (1- 800 - 772 -1213) or the Mass Health Office (1- 800 - 841 -2900) for this applica- tion. Go to www. social security_gov to apply online. If you are on Medicaid (Mass Health) or in a Medi- care Savings Program (QMB,SLMB,or QI), where Massachusetts pays for your Medicare B Premium, you will receive this "extra help" automatically and do NOT need to complete an application. Don't forget that you must still enroll in a Medicare Pre- scription Drug Plan to use the extra help. Medicare Prescription Drug Plan information will be avail- able in October and enrollment begins November 15, 2005. If you are a Prescription Advantage member, you must complete an application for "ex- tra help" to keep your Prescription Advantage Coverage in 2006. You need to do this even if you think you are not eligible. Mail the application to the Social Security Administration in the envelope pro- vided with the application or send it to Prescription Advantage. If you have any questions call 1 -800- AGE -INFO or 1- 800 - 243 -4636 (and press 1). You must enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan by December 31, 2005. Medicare Prescription Drug Plan information will be available in October and enrollment begins November 15th, 1005. For More information call 1- 800 - MEDICARE or the SHINE (Serving Health Information Needs of Elders) Pro- gram at 1- 800 - AGE -INFO or 1- 800 - 243 -4636 (and press 2). MoneyManagementProgram: Assistance with Monthly Bill Paying. Coping with bills and the mechanics of monthly bill paying can be overwhelming. Could you or someone you know use help keeping up with your monthly bills? The Money Management Program (co- sponsored by AARP, EOEA, and Mass Home Care) can provide a volunteer to assist with bill paying including: making a budget, sorting bills, writing checks (for YOU to sign), and reconciling checkbooks to bank statements. Inter- ested? Call the Money Management Program at Minute- man Senior Services: 781- 272 -7177 or 978 - 263 -8720. LEXPRESS...Lexington's mini -bus service is wheelchair equipped and ADA compliant. Operates six fixed routes; each route runs once per hour. There is no service on Saturday, Sunday or legal holidays. Route No. 1 stops at the Senior Center entrance at 12:48 pm, 1:48 pm and upon request. Seniors fare is $.75. Transfers within the LEXPRESS system are $.25. For riders on Route No. 5 going to Burlington, a $.25 surcharge applies. An annual senior pass is available for $125. For more information call 781- 861 -1210 or www.lexpress.us. Library Lines: Do you find the regular print in Library books difficult to see? We have a good selection of large print books which can make reading much easier and enjoy- able than straining to see the print in typical library books. Please come and take advantage of our large print collec- tion and make reading a pleasure again. Senior Center Library Hours Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 2:00 pm FuelAssistance Program. The Fuel Assistance program will run through April 29, 2006. Appointments can be scheduled for new clients through the Senior Center receptionist by calling (781) 861 -0194. Fuel Assistance appointments will take place in the Senior Center Re- source Room on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Unfortunately, we are unable to take walk -ins, so please be sure to schedule an appointment. Special arrangements may be available to accommodate persons unable to come to the Senior Center. Please call Kelly Magee at (781) 861 -0194 with questions or if you need special accommodations. Prescription Advantage - Prescription Advantage will . have an o en enrollment from March 15 2006 to A ril Editorial Correction. The poem written in the p p January ewsletter 28, 2006 and publicity will commence February 15. y , applications will be developed and mailed out so My Grey Haired Friends and I New a pp p was written b Louise M. St. Germain. seniors should wait till those are available. y 5 LEXINGTON SENIOR CENTER NEWS FEBRUARY 2006 l Trip reservations can be made by mail or in person at the Senior Center. Reservations cannot be made by phone. Make checks payable to COA Recreation. Due to advance financial commitments, refunds for cancellations made only if the vacancy is filled. Trip itinerary may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Concord Museum & La Provence Lunch $29 Wed., February 15, 2006 Spend a special afternoon at the Concord Museum for a guided tour of "Why Concord ? ", the museum's feature exhibit, with an introductory film and six galleries of Concord's history. Among the important artifacts you will see are Native American tools, Paul Revere's lan- tern, Thoreau's desk, the furnishings of Emerson's study, and Daniel Chester French's Minuteman statue. There will be ample time to view the museum's new exhibit, "A Main Street Point of View ", a look back at Concord's past. This exhibit features photos and artifacts, then and now. Before the museum visit, luncheon will be served at La Provence with a choice of Chicken Suedoise or Quiche Lorraine, dessert and choice of beverage. Trip Code T06 -18. Depart 11:30 a.m.; return p.m. Park at St., Brigid's Church, Worthen Rd. Museum of Fine Arts: Degas to Picasso $28 Thursday, March 9, 2006 Degas to Picasso: Modern Masters will survey the Museum's collection of European painting, sculpture, and graphic arts from 1900 through the 1960's. Begin- ning with the late works of the Impressionists (Degas, Monet, Cezanne) and post- Impressionists (Gauguin, Rodin, Maillol), the exhibition explores clusters ofworks by major figures in 20th century Europe. German and Austrian works will be shown, as well of those of the Norwegian, Munch. The Parisian School will be repre- sented by Matisse, Miro, and Calder; and a major group of works by Picasso in virtually every medium will be presented. There will be ample time to view the Museum's other exhibits. Lunch is on your own in of the Museum's restaurants. Trip Code T06 -19. Depart 9 a.m.; return 3 p.m. Park at St. Brigid's Church, Worthen Rd. Mohegan Sun Casino $22 Monday, March 20, 2006 Celebrate the first day of Spring with a visit to Mohegan Sun Casino, where you can try your luck at your choice of over 6,000 state -of -the -art slot machines, as well as the table games. The package includes a $10 food coupon and a $10 free bet. Trip Code T06 -20. Depart 7:30 a.m.; return 6:30 p.m. Park at St. Brigid's Church, Worthen Rd. Windowpane Shop Hours loam to 2pm, Weekdays Selling like -new clothing, accessories, jew- elry, scarves, pocketbooks, and small house- hold items. Donations are accepted Mon. through Fri. 8:30-4:30 pm. Fix It Shop Open Thursdays 9 am to 12 noon A great place to get those small items repaired. Drop off and pickup during these times only. Labor free - repair parts at cost. Donations accepted. Cynthia Warman RZX&,SS &,Vice. 781 -248 -8180 Cmw,..w.xmamoNEew.uxm FUR-tkne Realtor Walthum SL Lun MA Do you have trouble falli*ng asleep .1 Are you awake for long periods of time during the night, leaving you tired and rundown the next day? Healthy men and women age 65 and older who are experiencing sleep problems are needed for a study involving an investigational medication for insomnia. This study involves two daytime office visits & ten overnights. Qualified volunteers will also receive up to $2060 Qualified individuals completing study receive • • Study Medication • • Laboratory Tests • • Study Related Medical Care Interested? Call (617) 855 -2174 McLean Hospital An affiliate of Harvard Medical School qF SENIOR CITIZEN PUBLISHING • 1505 COMMONWEALTH AVENUE BOSTON, MA 02135 (617) 254 -4545 Q � IZ O cn � •— �+ c 'Q � O 0) L . v � 0) c: � O v1 E O O n � C O 01- O� UUcn2Hw r _ L m r o 3: � � (U c� � _j 0 Lu a �a� cit Q mm X > � -0 a)0 W J ' U U N CL W > O a U 0 q* 00m% LL CU z Q J � � F"� i N h } Q D Cl) W H V Q Y Z � O r� �+ V . v •� U W LO �..; V = 1 Y ♦ C6 �.� ) r _ RZO m r o 3: � � (U c� � _j a a �a� , _c 00 @ mm X > � -0 a)0 W J ' U cu r a CL W > �J a U U J J LL CU O W Q J � L _ C9 � v z a oa° �'� o , tm � LU . 0 N > O- (L) a U ■dam LL +r p 0 0 -.- CO U- CO > - –i +r 0 0 0 -.- C/) LL- co > --i cc +r 0 6 0 CnLL ° >a U. 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M O O M � N O O M M N - = � N N 00 O7 O7 O7 v- v- v- � � N -aft, W 1 J � � Q W N � J 1 OQ� � � cfl o QOZ � o CL o ck� �o E O 0 Q � L.L � O Z � ■ Q W U H � W p J W Z J� OOWZ� — z ZO> 6n !� M V O � • 1 a PON y � M 8 LEXINGTON SENIOR CENTER NEWS FEBRUARY 2006 FROM THE HEALTH CORNER: Understanding High Blood Pressure Charlotte Rodgers, RN, Social Services Nurse Happy Valentine's Day! During February, health care providers focus on awareness, understanding and prevention of heart disease. Maintaining a normal blood pressure is an important part of your heart health. The following questions and answers, adapted from the American Heart Association, may help answer some of your blood pressure questions. Part 1: What is Blood Pressure? Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood against the walls of the arteries. Blood pressure results from two forces. One is created by the heart as it pumps blood into the arteries and through the circulatory system. The other is the force of the arteries as they resist the blood flow. What do blood pressure numbers indicate? • The higher number (systolic) represents the pressure while the heart contracts to pump blood to the body. • The lower number (diastolic) represents the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats. • When reading a blood pressure, the systolic pressure is always stated first, and the diastolic pressure is second. For example, 118/70 (118 over 70); systolic= 118, diastolic =70. Blood pressure at or below 120/80 is considered optimal for adults. A blood pressure reading of 140/90 or higher is considered elevated (high). Why is high blood pressure harmful? High blood pressure makes your heart work harder than normal. Both the heart and the arteries are then more prone to injury. High blood pressure increases your risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, eye damage, con- gestive heart failure and fatty build -ups in the arteries called atherosclerosis. If you have high blood pressure and are obese, smoke, have high blood cholesterol levels or diabetes, your risk of heart attack and stroke goes up several times. Part 2- What Can Be Done The American Heart Association recommends the fol- lowing for people with high blood pressure: • Follow the instructions of your doctor or health care provider. • Stay on your medication. • Make lifestyle changes. How does medicine help control high blood pressure? Medicines called antihypertensives lower high blood pressure. • Diuretics, or "water pills" - rid the body of excess fluids and salt (sodium). • Beta blockers- reduce the heart rate and the heart's output of blood. • Vasodilators- cause the muscles in blood vessel walls to relax. • ACE inhibitors, Angiotension 11 receptor blockers and Calcium antagonists (calcium channel blockers)- block the production of angiotension 11, a chemical that causes the arteries to constrict. Calcium channel blockers can decrease the heart's pumping strength and cause the blood vessels to relax. In most cases, these drugs lower blood pressure. But all people react differently - this is why most people go through a period of "trial and error" to find a medication that works well for them, lowering blood pressure with the fewest amount of side effects. What about diet and lifestyle changes? These changes can help you to control high blood pres- sure. Sometimes lifestyle changes only are prescribed for people with mildly elevated blood pressure. • Healthy diet- Don't eat a lot of salt (sodium). Do eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and fat -free and low - fat dairy products. Such diets are rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium and protein, and low in total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol. (continued on next page) FEBRUARY 2006 LEXINGTON SENIOR CENTER NEWS 9 Blood Pressure continued • Drinking too much alcohol (more than two drinks per day) raises blood pressure in some people. • Lose weight. In people that are overweight, doctors recommend a sensible diet and exercise program. When people lose weight, their blood pressure often drops, too. • Regular physical activity helps you control your weight and lower your blood pressure. • Quit smoking. If you smoke, you greatly increase your risk of heart d isease. Remember to check with your own doctor or clinic about what is right for you. Find out how often you need to have your blood pressure checked. Follow your medication schedule carefully and never stop taking your medication without checking with your doctor first! Take small steps to begin lifestyle changes. Even a few simple diet changes can add up to greater health benefits. U �:� Medicare Plan Finder Help The Medicare Drug Plan Finder Tool is not yet available on www.medicare.gov but the SHINE Program is providing Medicare Drug Plan Enrollment Worksheets to all the Councils on Aging in order to help people prepare to find a plan. This form should be completed by the senior who can use to: personally search the plan finder tool at www.medicare.gov, give it to the SHINE counselor for processing in 3 -4 weeks, send it to Minuteman Senior Services SHINE Program for processing, call MassMedline with the information at 1- 866 - 633 -1617, or call Medicare at 1- 800 - medicare. CAUTION: Do not be hasty and pick a plan before you understand how it may impact your health insurance for 2006! For example, if you belong to a Medicare HMO and you pick a plan that is not connected to your HMO, you will be disenrolled by Medicare from the HMO and lose your health insurance! Call the HMO with the phone number on the back of your HMO card if you have questions. Beware companies who want to do the search for a fee. The SHINE Program and MassMedline searches are free. Beware companies who ask you for your Social Security and Medicare numbers. Fraudulent companies may try to use the numbers to bill Medicare for a service or equipment you do not need. Remember, most people have until May 15, 2006 to decide on a plan and trained staff will be available to help you. Diabetic Sneakers* cie for Medicare *We will bill Patients! your Medicare Insurance Company directly • ARLINGTON Cerified Retailer. The best selection of Raquel Welch wigs and additions. Lynn Sheehan, Certified Fitter (781) 6 4 6 - 6 0 0 0 w orld's Finest beauty, choice and fit Hair U Wear is a proud sponsor of the American Cancer Society and has donated 13, 000 wigs to the American Cancer Society thru 2005 MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR YOUR IF It IE IE Hearing Screening or Hearing Aid Cleaning Receive $100 OFF the purchase of a hearing aid. Pine Knoll Nursing Center V as "We take good care '• � of our neighbors. " 30 Watertown Street -86 -8 5 781 2 1 1 Lexington, MA www.pineknollnursingcenter.com 10 LEXINGTON SENIOR CENTER NEWS FEBRUARY 2006 Media Alert -Scam Artists Targeting Elders Elder Affairs Warns Seniors on Medicare Past D Scams With the start of the Medicare Part D enrollment, scam artists have already begun targeting elders. The Execu- tive Office of ElderAffairs warns Massachusetts elders to be cautious of unscrupulous people specifically those asking for banking information. Elder Affairs has received calls from caregivers of elder parents reporting that their family members have received telephone calls from people asking for their bank information. Usually the caller states that they can "sign you up for a Medicare plan for a one time charge." Please note: THERE IS NO ONE TIME FEE TO ENROLL IN A MEDICARE PART D PLAN. Thus far, the reported charges from these scams have varied from $249 to $398. Citizens Bank has verified in one instance that an amount of $398 was automatically removed from an elder's account. The scam artists that are contacting the elderly are perpetuating Identity theft and fraud. Identity theft involves a person obtaining and using your personal identifying information without the consent of the targeted person in order to commit fraud and other crimes. Elder Affairs offers the following tips to avoid being scammed: Keep all ofthe following personal information safe and available only to yourselves or your trusted caregiver: • Social Security Number • Medicare or Medicaid Number • Mother's Maiden Name • Date of Birth • Credit Card and Checking Account numbers Another scam being perpetrated on the elderly in- volves people posing as Social Security Administra- tion (SSA) personnel in an effort to get personal information. An S SA Employee may contact an appli- cant if information is incomplete or there is a question about information contained in the application. SSA employees, however, will not ask for social security information, mother's maiden name, date of birth, or any other personal, identifying information. In addi- tion, elders should be aware that the state and federal mailings are branded by official state and federal logos and are written on official stationary. "Scams have been o the rise since enrollment into the new Medicare prescription drug benefit has begun and many federal and state agencies, including Elder Af- fairs, have disseminated materials containing Medi- care Part D sign -up information," said Elder Affairs Secretary Jennifer Davis Carey. "It is extremely impor- tant for elders to keep in mind that the SSA already has your personal information, like your social security number, and will not ask you for this information over the telephone. Be vigilant with callers asking for personal identifying information." Do not give out any personal information until you are sure the person you are talking to is an Elder Affairs SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) Counselor, a SHINE Counselor from your local Council on Aging or senior center, or a Centers for Medicare &Medicaid Services or Social Security Administration personnel. SHINE is a free health insurance counseling and assistance program for Medi- care beneficiaries of all ages. continued next page FEBRUARY 2006 LEXINGTON SENIOR CENTER NEWS 11 Medicare Part D Scam Continued....... In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services offer the following tips: People who are rem working with Medicare: • Cannot come to your home uninvited to sell or endorse any Medicare - related product, but they can Volunteers Needed Are you interested in spending time with the middle school students? Clarke Middle School is looking for volunteers to teach after - school clubs. It can be anything of interest, knitting, chess, painting. Please contact Becky Rushford, Youth and Family Services Coordina- tor at 781- 861 -2742. call you about their plan. Cannot enroll you into a drug plan or ask you to pay for a drug plan over the telephone, unless you are adding prescription drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage or other Medicare Health Plan you already have. Note: State Health insurance Assis- tance Programs and other local organization may help you enroll over the telephone. (In Massachu- setts, that is the SHINE program) Cannot ask for payment over the web. The plan must send you a bill if you enroll over the web. Massachusetts elders do not have to fall prey to scam artists. SHINE counselors are available to assist elders with Medicare Part D, the prescription drug benefit, at Councils on Aging, senior centers Area Agencies on � g Aging or by calling 1- 800 - AGE -INFO (1- 800 - 243 - 4636.) Seniors should report suspected scam perpetrators at the SSA Fraud website: www.ssa.gov by calling 1- 800 -447- 8477. Free rides for medical appointments Did you know FISH offer free rides to medical appointments ?? If you are a Lexington resident, FISH will take you to a medical appointment throughout the Greater Boston area, Monday Friday FREE of charge. For more information call between 9:00 am 4:00 pm at 781 -861- 93 00. FISH always needs volunteers to drive locally or help with phone calls. If you want to hear more about volunteering call 718-862-0375. Volunteer Opportunities! The Friend -to- Friend program is seeking volunteers to support home -bound seniors through socialization and assistance with light household management tasks. Share personal stories, play cards, or assist with grocery shop- ping—the two of you decide!! While offering help to a senior at home, you can gain personal fulfillment from volunteering and form a lasting relationship. Call Kelly Magee at 781- 861 -0194 for information. ANNUAL ROTARY .. ... ... ... ... ... SENIORS DINNER The Lexington Rotary invites you to their annual Senior Appreciation Dinner, for Lexington Seniors only, to be held on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 5:00 p.m. at the Heritage Hall, 177 Bedford St., Lexington. � MARCH 23,2006 ROTARY DINNER � � Name � � Address � Phone � Once again, you will need to fill out and return this � � coupon to the Rotary Club. (Please circle) � � Do you need the Rotary to provide you with transporta- tion? Yes No � How many in your party? One Two � Please return this coupon to the Rotary Clubby March � � 1 2006 to: � � Lexington Rotary Club � � P.O. Box 615 � � Lexington, MA 02420 � � The Rotary Club will send your tickets in the mail. � 12 LEXINGTON SENIOR CENTER NEWS FEBRUARY 2006 Yoga for Health and Fitness, with Lisa Groves Fridays, 9:30 -10:30 a.m. Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24, $24.00 March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 $30.00 Develop strength, flexibility, and balance, and improve overall physical and mental well -being using time - honored yoga movements, postures, and breathing exercises. Exercises will be adapted to meet individual needs; all levels welcome. Please bring a blanket or yoga mat. Register with Senior Center receptionist. Class size is limited. Tai Chi, with Laura Coulter -Cook 1:30- 2:30pm Mondays - Feb. 6, 13, 27 $9.00 March 6, 13, 20, 27 $12.00 Improves balance, breathing and body awareness. Medical studies show benefits towards lower blood pressure, cholesterol and osteoporosis. First 30 minutes of class is chi gong exercises to warm up. In the second 30 minutes, beginners learn to breathe, balance and the sequence of Level 1. Register with Senior Center receptionist. • Stretch & Bend. Large, popular stretching and limbering group offers support and instruction. The group meets Monday through Friday, 9 -9:3 0 am. Free. • 60+ Fitness. Lead by enthusiastic group members, this workout focuses on both upper and lower body muscle strengthening, using free weights and bands. Meets Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays at 9:35- 10:30. All welcome. Instructor Sue LeVasseur will run one session/month. See group for schedule. Free. • Kripalu Yoga with Don Weikert. Move gently from a centering meditation, to stretching and warm - ups, to learning physical postures (asanas) to relaxation. Mondays 8:30 -9:45. $5 /session. Pay instructor. • Line Dancing with Patricia Kavgian. Dancing is a great way to exercise! Come join the group for great music, fun dances and a group of people having a great time. Every Thursday from 1:15 to 2:3 0 in the dining room. Pay instructor $2 a session. • Ping Pong. All welcome to join a game on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 2 -4. All levels. Bereavement & Friendship Group. Meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month., facili- tated by staff Social Worker , Kelly Magee. All are welcome, and no registration is necessary. 1 -2:30 pm. Prostate Cancer Group. This group is for men who currently have prostate cancer or survivors who wish to share the knowledge they have gained with others. Meets third Wednesday of each month, 1:00 - 2:30 pm.. Parkinson's Support Group. Led by Art Sotak. The Parkinson's Disease support group will meet 4th Mon- day of each month at 1:00 pm at the Senior Center in the Muzzey Room. Caregivers Group: Group meets 1 st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 2-3:3 0 pm. A support group for caregivers of individuals with memory impairment. The group is ongoing and there is no fee. The group is ongoing and there is no fee. If interested, please call Sandy Simon for an initial telephone intake at 781- 862 -2829 The Evergreen Group. We meet to talk about personal and family issues. Meets at the Senior Center 2nd Monday of each month, 10:00 -11:30 a.m. Podiatry Clinic. With Dr. Teri Burtoft. Thursday, February 16. Call 781- 861 -0194 to schedule an ap- pointment. $25. Please pay the Podiatrist directly. Ap- pointments scheduled 8:3 0 am to 11: 3 0 am. Blood Pressure Clinic. Thursdays at 10:00 AM. On the first Thursday of the month, the clinic is held at the Senior Center. Clinics are also held at the Senior Vil- lages other Thursdays of the month. Call the Senior Center for directions to the other locations. Veterans' Agent Office Hours. Our Veterans' Agent Pat Flynn can meet with you during his weekly office hours. Monday's from 2:00 to 3:3 0 PM. Call Pat at 781- 861 -9108 to make an appointment. SHINE. Counselors Rose Lerner or RhodaNeidorf are available to help you with any aspect of your health insurance on Tuesdays from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Call the Senior Center at 781- 861 -0194 to make an appoint- ment. Please let us know if you can't make your appoint- ment. Supportive Day Care. Provides a safe daytime envi- ronment for seniors who are having difficulty living independently, and respite for caregivers. Call Carolyn for further information at 781- 259 -1807. Free.