of Berkshire County, Inc. • Proudly promoting Elder ... 2016.pdf · introduce the Seniors and...

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

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Volume 33, Number 7 • July 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 ....... 2

Government Update .......... 3

Elder Services .............4, 7-12

SHINE ......................................5

Caregivers/Alzheimer's .........6

Assisted Living .....................8, 9

Our Community ............... 14

Nutrition ............................ 16

PUSHED PAGE 5

ABUSE PAGE 14

Like Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc.

Elder Services' ProgramsSee pages 7-11

If you are on Medicare, and you think your hospital services are ending too soon, you can file an appeal—and gain some extra time from Medicare.You can ask ques-tions about or challenge the quality of the health care you have received, your access to appropriate health care, your discharge from the hospital, or your termination from skilled services.

For example, if you are in a hospital, and you are told you are going to be

Are you being pushed out of the hospital too soon?

discharged — but you feel too sick to leave — you can appeal your discharge to the Medicare designated Quality Improvement Organization (QIO), which for Massachu-setts is a company named Livanta.

When the hospital is go-ing to discharge a person on Medicare, they will give the patient a notice in writing called, “An Important Mes-sage from Medicare,” which will explain how to file an appeal with Livanta. Medi-care regulation requires you to request a review no later than midnight of the day of discharge. (On weekdays, Livanta’s Medicare Helpline is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the weekends the line is open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Just leave your phone number if you get

In Berkshire County, the Elder Protective Program at LifePath assesses reports and determines if elders are need of services. The program relies on reports from the community members who become aware of elders who may be in need of protec-tive service assessment and intervention. Elder abuse can happen to anyone, and all socio-economic groups, classes, ethnicities and races are affected by this issue.

Massachusetts Law de-fines elder abuse as acts or omissions resulting in seri-ous physical, sexual, or emo-tional injury or financial loss to an elder. Individuals who are 60-years-old or older and living in the community are protected by the law. Elder abuse includes: • physical, sexual, and

emotional abuse;

Together, we have the power to prevent elder abuseElder abuse should never be ignored – it can happen to anyone

By Linda Puzan

• caretaker neglect; and • financial exploitation.

Additionally, self-neglect is also a category that the law covers. Self-neglecting elders may be unable to access necessary services to meet health and basic essential needs or refuse to consider services that they may need to enhance their safety and wellbeing in the community.

Protective service issues can include but are not lim-ited to: bed-bound elders who are not moved or toileted regularly, elders who show signs of bruising or being fearful of a particular per-son in their lives. In cases of financial exploitation, sudden changes in finances and accounts, unusual bank withdrawals, or a suspicious signature on an elder’s check may be warning signals of a problem. Other signs that

may indicate a problem in-clude: mail piling up, an elder withdrawing from regular activities, or changes in phys-ical appearance. Most cases of elder abuse and neglect are individuals known and trusted by the elder including family members, friends and personal acquaintances.

Keep in contact with elders in your life and in the community. Talk with these elders regularly to en-sure their wellbeing. Regular communication helps to de-crease isolation, which is a risk factor for mistreatment. Keeping in contact also gives elders an opportunity to dis-cuss concerns that may be bothering them. Having an open ear to signs of trouble can be the best tool in our fight against elder abuse.

The older population is

July 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, John Lutz, and Rhonda Serre

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 & 664-6812

[email protected]

• Rep. Paul W. Mark (2nd District) 1-617-722-2013 & 464-5635

[email protected]

• Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier (3rd District) 1-617-722-2240 & 442-4300

[email protected]

• Rep. Smitty Pignatelli (4th District) 1-617-722-2017 & 637-0631

[email protected]

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

[email protected]

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

Elder Services Speaks 200 Languages!Beginning English speaker? Did you know that Elder Services has the ability to communicate with individuals speaking over 200 different languages? Don’t let language 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 .

A privilege to serve seniors

By John Lutz

Sometimes, your job reminds you to not forget about why you do your job instead of being absorbed with what it takes to keep your job.

At the end of May, Elder Ser-vices of Berkshire County had our triennial on-site visit designation review from the MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs. This is a program and administration audit performed once every three years that, as you might imagine, can generate palpable anxiety in the workplace and requires significant

preparation once you get the notice 30 days ahead of time. We endured the visit and await the written report, but were re-assured by the constructive interaction and positive feedback from our state office brethren.

Just three working days later, I found myself in the presence of an engaged, active, and robust group of seniors from Egremont and Mount Washington who had gathered for their “end of season” picnic in French Park in North Egremont. It was a beautiful late spring day and we began with a one mile (measured) walk around the grounds. I found myself sharing the time with a retired Episcopal priest. The agenda included helpful information from day hikes on the Appalachian Trail to edible plants — maybe those are more related than I realized at the time.

Now, like any nonprofit executive that wants to keep their job, I know that meeting and (hopefully) exceeding the expectations of our largest partner in the MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs is necessary for agency survival. But, really, that’s all about keeping our collective jobs.

The gathering in North Egremont is all about doing our job. Offering what we can, in any way we can, to as many as we can, to support their independence and sustain their quality of life.

Money Managment/SHINE Program Coordinator

Shauna Post, I want to thank you and the entire

team at Elder Services for the wonderful support and care you gave to my mother… I can never

thank you all enough.

Thank you Client Services Coordinator Bill Marsh

Bill has been wonderful – practical, compassionate, helpful. He’s easy to talk to and has always offered good advice and whatever

help he can provide.

Meals on Wheels DriverThe young lady who delivers my meals smiles and brightens my whole week. I know she cares if I’m sick or healthy, sad or happy.

God bless her.

Every day we have the privilege of serving people that can use and need our support. No two situations are alike. And, we can’t always do as much as we would like. But, like the partnership with The State Office of Elder Affairs, it’s our job to find creative solutions to person-centered problems. But, like the gathering in Egremont, it’s the satisfaction and gratification of impacting the lives of elders, their families and caregivers and serving them over time that brings the joy to our work.

Thank you for the privilege of serving you.

July 2016 Elder Services' Berkshire Senior

Government Update

If you have any concerns re-garding elder abuse or neglect, call 1-855-874-3242, Monday through Friday from: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

After hours, call the Elder Abuse Hotline:

1-800-922-2275.

Safety is a Right!

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.

Our nation faces an urgent crisis: as middle-class families increasingly are squeezed by stagnant wages and rising costs, the dream of a secure retirement is slipping away. During this election season, it is critical that Americans take a close look at how candidates plan to strengthen seniors’ economic security.

At a time when our country faces a real and growing retirement crisis, it is more important than ever that we take steps to protect and expand Social Security. Yet today, Social Security remains under attack. Re-

publicans in Washington are doing everything they can to privatize and cut benefits for millions of seniors who rely on Social Security to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads.

This is exactly the wrong approach. Social Security is about economics, but it is also about our values. It’s about who we are as a people, and what kind of country we are determined to build. Every person who represents you in Washington should be talking about protecting and expanding Social Security – not cutting it.

This year — for just the third time since 1975 — seniors who depend on Social Security to make ends meet will get no annual cost of living increase. Social Security is supposed to be indexed to inflation so that when prices go up, benefits go up too. But Congress’s formula isn’t geared to what older Americans actually spend. So even though the cost of core goods and services is up this year, seniors who are already struggling to scrape by to cover rent and exploding prescription drug prices are scrambling.

That’s why I’ve joined with colleagues in the House and the Senate to introduce the Seniors and Veterans Emergency (SAVE) Benefits Act to give seniors on Social Security, veterans, and people with disabilities a one-time payment of $581 to help cover this gap. The bill is fully paid for by closing

“SAVE Benefits Act,” a common sense proposal to make a difference for seniors

By U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren

a tax loophole that allows corporations to write off obscene bonuses to top executives as business expenses for their taxes.

The SAVE Benefits Act is a common sense proposal that would make a real difference for seniors. So far, the Republican leadership in Congress has not held a vote on the legislation, choosing instead to protect taxpayer giveaways to a handful of wealthy corporations — but we’re going to keep fighting to pass this bill. It’s never too late to do right by our seniors.

This election year also serves as a reminder about the important role the federal government has in protecting the retirement savings of working families. In April, the Obama Administration announced new rules that establish a professional and legal obligation for retirement advisors to pro-vide advice that puts their clients’ interests first. Up until now, while most retirement advisors put their clients’ interests first, some were allowed to recommend financial products that benefitted the adviser, but not the person seeking advice. Republicans in Congress have tried to repeal the rule, but the Obama Administration is standing firm, and these new protections will save Americans an estimated $17 billion annually.

Seniors in the Berkshires and across the country deserve a Washington that works for working families, not for big corporations that want taxpayer giveaways or shady financial advisers who put their own interests ahead of retirees’. This election, we need to focus on how we can ensure that Ameri-cans who work hard and play by the rules can retire comfortably, with the dignity and security they have earned.Elizabeth Warren is the senior U.S. Senator of Massachusetts. To contact her, call 1-413-788-2690 or 1-202-224-4543.

July 2016

Elder Services

a member agency of…

877 South St., Suite 4E, Pittsfield, MA 01201 Telephone (413)499-0524

Fax (413)442-6443 E-Mail [email protected]

June 2016

Dear Friend,

The mission of Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. is to provide Berkshire elders, caregivers, andindividuals with disabilities the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and selfdetermination, and to achieve the highest possible quality of life.

For over 40 years, Elder Services is Berkshire County’s one stop source of aging support. Ourdedicated and compassionate professionals help Berkshire seniors make life enhancing decisions.We exist to serve you, your family, friends and neighbors – to provide hope, help and the ability toremain at home for as long as possible.

In order to meet our mission and continue to provide services for Berkshire seniors, we rely on thegenerosity of individuals and businesses. We ask that you make a commitment to support ourannual appeal.

Your donation will help us provide hot meals on the tables of seniors who can no longer preparetheir own, provide assistance to seniors having difficulty managing household finances, provide free,unbiased and up to date health insurance information, counseling and assistance to Medicarebeneficiaries of all ages, and help seniors assess their options and implement workable plans forlong term care.

If you are donating for the first time this year, we welcome you into our circle of supporters. We willsend you our monthly newspaper, Berkshire Senior, free of charge for one year.

Your gift is extremely important because it offers immediate resources that are directed to currentneeds at Elder Services. Berkshire seniors are counting on your support.

Please send your tax deductible gift of any amount today in the enclosed envelope.

Thank you so much for your help.

Sincerely,

Dawn M. Dellea, President, Elder Services Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Dawn M. DelleaPresident

Sully GarofanoVice President

John S. RysTreasurer

Diane SheridanClerk

Van Ellet

Diana Fontana

Erica Girgenti

Kim Graham

Hilary Greene

Susan Kormanik

Deb Kushnet

Kathleen Luczynski

David Mangun

Catherine R. May

David W. Murphy, Jr.

Your Donation to Elder Services of Berkshire County

Supports Elder Independence

$10 = Covers the suggested $2 donation for a week’s worth of meals at a Senior Meal Site$25 = One hour of Options Counseling for an elder exploring long-term care choices$50 = Two hours of personal care for a frail elder who is not feeling strong enough to care for herself$100 = 15 hot, nutritious, home-delivered meals for a homebound senior — three weeks of Meals on Wheels

Questions About Services

for Seniors?

Call Elder Services!1-800-544-5242

or 499-0524

Who helpsBerkshire seniors

maintain their independence?

Elder Services does!


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*

* There is no charge for meeting with SHINE counselors.

NEW SHINE TRAININGWhen: July 7 through August 4, weekly, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Elder Services, 877 South Street 4th floor, Pittsfield

Call Elder Services SHINE Coordinator Shauna Post 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242 ext. 723 for details.

a message machine. Once you appeal, you can then

stay in the hospital without having to pay (except for copays and deduct-ibles) until at least noon of the day after Livanta notifies you, the hospi-tal, and the doctor of its decision. If you appeal to Livanta, you cannot be discharged without your consent. By appealing, you delay your discharge by at least a day or two.

To get your appeal started, you must call Livanta’s HelpLine at 1-866-815-5440. Livanta will then call and fax the hospital and request your medical records. A physician reviewer at Livanta decides whether or not you are healthy enough to be discharged from the hospital. When the review is complete, you will receive a phone call and letter from Livanta with the decision.

You can also file an appeal if you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage managed care plan. You have the same appeal rights whether you are in traditional Medicare, or in a managed care plan. If you would like to have someone else explain your case to Livanta, you can appoint a represen-tative to speak on your behalf. There are no fees to have your discharge appeal reviewed by Livanta.

Medicare CornerYour Monthly Answers to Common Questions

Q. What’s not covered by Part A & Part B? A. Medicare doesn’t cover everything. If you need certain services that Medicare doesn’t cover, you’ll have to pay for them yourself unless you have other insurance or you’re in a Medicare health plan that covers these services.Even if Medicare covers a service or item, you generally have to pay your deductible, coinsurance, and copayments.Some of the items and services that Medicare doesn’t cover include: • Long-term care (also called custodial care)• Most dental care• Eye examinations related to prescribing glasses• Dentures• Cosmetic surgery • Acupuncture • Hearing aids and exams for

fitting them• Routine foot care

PUSHED PAGE 1

From set-up of in-home care to emotional support and painmanagement, we’ve been providing care to BerkshireCounty for more than 35 years. We are the Berkshire’s mostpersonalized hospice, with neighbors caring for neighbors.

The difference is in our care.

35 years of hospice.

Thousands of lives touched.

HospiceCare in The Berkshires

We’re Perfecting the Art of Superior Care

877 South Street Suite 1WPittsfield, MA 01201413-443-2994www.hcib.org

Note: Be sure to ask your hospi-tal: “What is my admission status?” If you are on “observation status,” you have appeal rights through the Medicare Administrative Contrac-tor (MAC). The hospital should give you an Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN), which describes your appeal rights through the MAC.

You also have the right to ap-peal to Livanta over a termination of “skilled services,” such as home health, skilled nursing, hospice, and outpatient rehabilitation. Livanta will review your case, and decide if continued skilled services are medi-cally necessary based upon standards of care.

This whole appeal process must be completed within one day after Livanta receives all medical records for hospital appeals requests filedin a timely way, or within 24 to 72 hours (depending on the type of review) from your first call for a skilled services appeal. If you are not satis-fied with Livanta’s decision, you can request a further appeal — but any skilled services you receive after the termination or discharge date might not be paid by Medicare. This means you would be completely responsible for those costs. For a link to the Li-vanta Medicare appeal process, go to: http://bfccqioarea1.com/appeals.html.

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


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.

You CAN Save Energy & Money!Sometimes the best things are

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Caregiver/Alzheimer's Information

When a person with Alzheimer’s is aloneGoing out alone

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, a person can sometimes safely go out alone. First, however, her safety should be considered. Ask yourself if she can reach her destination and return safely. Awareness of her surroundings will decline over time, so her abilities should be continually re-evaluated.

To help ensure the person’s safety if she is going out alone:• Enroll her in the MedicAlert® + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return®

program.• Tell the local police and neighbors that the person has Alzheimer’s disease

and is at risk for wandering.• Make sure she carries personal identification.• Give her a card with her address, telephone number, directions to her

house, and instructions on what to do if she gets lost.• Observe the person frequently to evaluate her ability to cross streets and

follow other safety rules.Staying home alone

Persons in the early-to-middle stages of Alzheimer’s disease can some-times be safely left alone. First however his safety should be considered. Ask yourself if he gets agitated or nervous when left alone in a room for even a short period, or attempts to look for you by leaving the house. His ability to stay home alone will decline over time, so you will need to constantly re-evaluate. Appropriate precautions can minimize the anxiety and safety risks caused by a brief or extended absence of a familiar caregiver.If person is to be home alone, some recommendations to follow are:• Even if you are leaving for only a short period, say good-bye and tell the

person the approximate time you will return.• Leave a note in sight indicating where you are going and when you will

return.• Leave a photo album of family members easily accessible to provide

reassurance.• Enlist the support of neighbors so they’ll be ready and willing to help if

needed.• Enroll him in the MedicAlert® + Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return®.• Let the local police know that the person has Alzheimer’s disease.• Be sure safety hazards are removed or reduced from the home.This material was reprinted with permission from the Alzheimer’s As-sociation 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.

July 2016

Elder Services' Programs

Adult Family CareAdult Family Care hosts provide individualized care in a home envi-

ronment, allowing a senior or an individual with disabilities to become a valued and productive member of the family. Adult Family Care features monthly visits from an Elder Services’ registered nurse and social worker. Family members are eligible caregivers (with the exception of spouses or legal guardians) and can receive a tax-free stipend.

When the health of married couple Michael and Shelly declined nearly three years ago, they were going to need in-home help if they were going to remain together, at home. Shelly’s sister Patty, a Licensed Practical Nurse, volunteered to move in with them to help them out. Patty quickly discov-ered that she was not able to provide the hands on care and supervision that Michael and Shelly needed, and continue to work. Elder Services’ Adult Family Care program was not only able to provide Patty with a tax-free stipend on a monthly basis for the extensive care she provides to her sister and brother-in-law, Elder Services has also provided Patty, Michael and Shelly with a registered nurse (RN) and social worker dedicated to their case to monitor the care in the home and to give each of them support and guidance during monthly visits. Patty’s commitment as an AFC caregiver has allowed Michael and Shelly, who are both under 60, to remain at home, to continue to engage with other family members on a regular basis, and to participate in activities that give them pleasure, such as going to their favorite restaurant, all while living with complex medical conditions.

Benefits Counseling and Application Assistance Program

The Benefits Counseling Pro-gram is designed to enhance the financial security of Berkshire residents 60 years old and older who live on fixed and limited in-comes. Volunteers assist Benefits Counselors who visit seniors in their homes or meet them at Coun-cils on Aging, senior centers, and other public locations for non-health related benefits counseling and ap-plication assistance. Counselors help seniors apply for programs that pay for basic expenses such as food, energy, weatherization, and home maintenance and repairs. Following is just one story.

Mary S., an 84 year old, single, woman who lives in Pittsfield, was referred to the Benefits Counseling Coordinator for help with her financial situation. She needed assistance filling out applications for SNAP (formerly food stamps) and fuel assistance benefits as she has low vision.

A home visit was made and the applications were completed and mailed to appropriate agencies. A second appointment was scheduled as more documents were needed to complete the process. Documents were

Elder Services’ Adult Family Care program has helped many seniors live in private homes while being part of the family.

photographed using an iPad. The documents were downloaded in the office, printed off and mailed. Mary was eligible to receive $625 in fuel assistance for the season and $175/month in SNAP benefits and a representative from BCAC (Berkshire Community Action Council) completed an energy audit. Her light bulbs were replaced and she is on a wait list for an insulation audit to be completed in later months. She received a new refrigerator which will be more energy efficient. A utility discount form was mailed to Eversource and she will be receiving a reduction in her bill of 32% per month. Mary had a BRTA (Berkshire Regional Transit Authority) van application that I completed with her. She is now able to receive rides locally, using the van.

She also requested a volunteer companion for visits and to go to events. She now has a regular companion who brings her to fitness classes at the local senior center, meetings, walks, and to social events.

Berkshire Senior NewspaperElder Services' monthly newspaper, “Berkshire Senior,” supports the agency’s mission to offer information, advocacy, and services to provide Berkshire seniors the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and self-deter-mination, and to achieve the highest possible quality of life.

Monthly articles include those written by Elder Services' Executive Direc-tor; Elder Services SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) Coordinator; Elder Services’ nutritionist; and Massachusetts government officials who focus on legislation, the Commonwealth’s budget, and state and local funding. The paper frequently provides information about major health issues including cancer, diabetes, GERD, stroke, cardiac problems, Alzheimer’s disease, dental, pulmonary, orthopedic, and infectious diseases. Each month the paper prints Elder Services’ Nutrition Department’s menu with Senior Lunch Site contact information and the Berkshire Senior TV schedule. Elder Services’ Information and Referral Department provides articles about resources available for seniors.

"Berkshire Senior" looks forward to continuing to provide information to our over 11,000 readers.

Berkshire Senior TVBerkshire Senior TV programs are broadcast monthly on all Berkshire

County local cable access stations, including Pittsfield Community TV, Northern Berkshire Community TV, Community TV of Southern Berkshires, and WilliNet in Williamstown. The show features topics relevant to seniors, including Elder Protective Services, elder safety, Council on Aging programs, benefits for seniors, legislation affecting elders, and volunteer opportunities.

Crossway Village & Crossway TowerDeveloped by Elder Services, and located in Lee, Crossway Village and

Crossway Tower feature one-bedroom senior apartments. Residents are able to maintain their independence in a supportive living environment while re-maining members of the Lee Community. The Lee Senior Center is located in the Crossway Village building, offering an Elder Services lunch site open to local seniors five-days-a-week. A working beauty salon is on premises,

"This month on Berkshire Senior TV: Linda Puzon (author of our cover story) and John Lutz discuss Berkshire Elder Protective Services and how to spot elder abuse."

Benefits Counseling Coordinator Ann Rocchi


Elder Services' Program

Client ServicesAl is a 90-year old gentleman who lives in North Adams. He has been

an Elder Services' client since August 2013. Due to his diagnosis of advanced Alzheimer’s disease, he requires 24 hour care. When the Elder Services’ case manager first met Al, his two sons and their wives were rotating shifts to care for him during the day while private caregivers were with him at night. His case manager worked with Al and his family to develop a com-prehensive service plan that included personal care services to provide some much needed relief to his family. His family also arranged for support from his Veterans’ benefit, which included additional personal care along with a registered nurse to conduct home visits for medication management and to check his vitals.

Within a year, the private care arranged for him had depleted his assets. With the guidance of his Elder Services' Case Manager, Michelle Arsenault, the family applied for MassHealth Standard on his behalf to help cover the cost of his in-home care and other medical expenses. He currently receives an enhanced service package to meet his increasing care needs which includes several hours of personal care each day which is supplemented by services he continues to receive via his Veteran’s benefit. In addition, a registered nurse provides him with in-home foot care on a regular basis which is funded by an Elder Services grant. Due to his complex care needs and the extended hour service plan he receives from Elder Services, Al’s case manager conducts an on-site assessment every other month to monitor his well-being and to ensure that the services he is receiving continue to meet his needs while of-fering support and guidance to his family. While Al receives a lot of formal support from many sources, he would not be as well cared or as happy in his home if it were not for the on-going love and support he continues to receive from his family on a daily basis. Not only do they manage his many medical appointments, monitor his complex medical conditions above and beyond his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, they ensure his life continues to have meaning and that he experiences joy wherever he can. Al still goes to McDonalds once a week to have coffee with his old friends, goes out to breakfast and to an occasional ball game. Michelle Arsenault, states “Al has a loving and involved family who are dedicated to keeping him home.”

Elder Nutrition/Meals on Wheels Program

The Elder Nutrition Program helps address many problems seniors face, including malnutrition, health problems, food insecurity, and loneliness. Elder Nutrition/Meals on Wheels Program covers Berkshire County 946 square miles of, going anywhere and everywhere homebound seniors need hot, nutritious weekday meals. Often MOW drivers do more than deliver a meal.

A few weeks ago, Mike (one of Elder Services’ drivers) was going about his normal route; however, there was no answer when he knocked on the door of a long time customer. Knowing that she did not call ahead to say she wouldn’t be home for delivery and relying on his instincts and training, he paused and listened carefully for any sounds coming from inside the house. Sure enough, he could hear her cries. His client had fallen and was unable to answer the door or reach for the phone. Thanks to his attentiveness, she received immediate medical treatment and now has a personal safety device in case of future falls. Her family is grateful to Mike for his volunteerism and awareness; she could have been there for hours before her family came for their evening visit.

Elder Services’ Nutrition Program also includes senior lunch sites, which are gathering places for seniors who are mobile enough to join others for meals in a group setting. Last year, our Lanesborough kitchen prepared more than 40,000 meals for 13 senior lunch sites located at senior centers throughout the county, and supported one kosher lunch site operated by the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires. Informative and interesting programs and guest speakers are regularly scheduled to follow the meals. At each lunch site Elder Services’ warm-hearted staff and many volunteers serve up friendship, a well-balanced hot meal and a safe environment for anyone over age 60 at a suggested dona-tion of just $2.00, if affordable. No senior is turned away because they are unable to donate towards the cost of their meal. All are welcome.

The Family Caregiver Support Program

The Family Caregiver Support Program provides information and support to all caregivers. Services available are ongoing caregiver support either in in-dividual discussions, or in support groups. There are also several caregiver trainings throughout the year. Following is one story of many.Bill is a caregiver for his par-ents, Mary and John. (Not their real names). Mary was diagnosed with Multiple Scle-rosis 10 years ago. John, who has been Mary’s caregiver, was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Bill at-tended our caregivers train-ings, Powerful Tools for Care-givers and the Alzheimer’s

Care Partners Education series. After the trainings, Bill referred himself to the Family Caregiver Support Program. He met with an Elder Services’ Caregiver Coordinator for an initial assessment. During the assessment it was discovered that Bill was spending most of his time off with his parents. His wife was also helping. Both of them were stressed and caregiving was taking away from their life with each other and their children. Also Bill’s parents’ finances were in disarray and he was concerned whether medical insurance was covering their needs.

The Caregiver Coordinator provided caregiver support to Bill and in-formation on Alzheimer’s disease and MS, and discussed services for Bill’s parents including Meals On Wheels, Homecare, Money Management, and SHINE – Serving the Health and Information Needs of Everyone. Bill stated that both parents are resistant to outside services so she offered to meet with Bill and his parents. At the meeting, the Caregiver Coordinator discussed the importance of Bill taking care of himself, and that he needed some help so that he could balance his job, his own family life, and caring for them. Once it was understood that accepting services was going to help Bill, the parents reconsidered. It was also explained that these services were designed to help them remain in their home. They started with accepting Meals On Wheels. This eased some of the responsibilities away from Bill and his wife. Eventu-ally Mary and John accepted homemaking services, and Mary accepted some assistance with personal care when John could no longer help her. It was a difficult transition for both of them. Presently they are very happy with the trained professionals who come into their home to provide the services that help them remain in their home. In addition, Bill made an appointment with a SHINE counselor to review his parents’ medical insurance. Another family member took over managing the finances.

Bea Cowlin, one of our Caregiver Coordinators, presents caregiver Paula McCaul with a food basket donated by the employees of BCAC.

July 2016

Elder Services' Program

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.

If you are caring for someone age 60 or older, or someone under the age of 60 with a disability or a form of dementia, or if you are a grandparent raising a grandchild, you may be eligible for the Family Caregiver Support Program. Please contact Elder Services’ Caregiver Coordinators Bea Cowlin, LSW or Joe Choon, at 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242.

The Richard and Rita Gallagher Alzheimer’s Resource Center.

This lending library, located at Elder Services’ Pittsfield office, provides information about Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders and coping strategies for caregivers. Up to five resources may be checked out at one time. There is a requested deposit of $5.00 per resource, and they may be checked out for up to two weeks. The Center also has a computer with online access & links to related topics.

Information & Referral Program Elder Services' Information and Refer-ral (I & R) Program at is your one-stop source for all matters around aging in the Berkshires. If Elder Services does not provide a service directly, I & R specialists know who does and will put you in touch with the right solution for your concern. Assistance can come in the form of information or even direct advocacy if the situation warrants.

For example, last winter we as-sisted a gentleman by helping him keep his gas service from being shut off. As is often the case these days, his was a multi-generational home includ-ing a new born baby. He was having difficulty communicating that with the Gas Company. Our Information

and Referral team was able to contact the Gas Company on his behalf. We clarified the situation and assisted the family with gathering the documenta-tion needed to prevent a shut off.

Money Management ProgramThe Money Management Program is a free, volunteer-based service for income-eligible seniors who are hav-ing difficulty paying bills, balancing their checkbooks and/or maintaining a household budget. Some seniors who enter the program are at-risk of losing their independence due to their inability to pay basic rent, food and utility bills on time. Often these se-niors are homebound, disabled, visu-ally impaired, or confused, and have no nearby family to help them. The Money Management Program helps seniors to remain safe and secure in

their own homes.Robert Huffington, a 68 year old recent widower, contacted Elder Ser-

vices' Money Management Program for help in February 2015. Huffington had explained that he had vision deficits that made it difficult for him to process his mail and pay his bills. Huffington also stated that his wife had taken care of the bookkeeping for the entirety of their 48 year marriage and that he was struggling to budget for his household needs.

Huffington now meets with a Money Management Volunteer on a monthly basis to review his mail, pay his bills, and review the budget that he created with assistance from the volunteer. Huffington has expressed feeling peace of mind due to the collaborative support he receives, which allows him to maintain his independence. Huffington is now following a budget that he created in conjunction with the volunteer and is able to adequately maintain himself in his home.

Eloise Grafton, an 88 year old widow, who prided herself on paying her bills "no matter what," was referred to Elder Services' Money Management Program by a concerned neighbor with whom she was close. Grafton was

Elder Services’ Information and Referral Specialists, Laura Feakes (above) and Deborah Connolly help connect seniors with aging resources.

Bill Eade is one of our highly trained Money Management Counselor.

unable to purchase sufficient food or maintain compliance with her medi-cations. During the Initial Assessment it was determined that Grafton was likely entitled to several benefits that would help make ends meet, including SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps) and Fuel Assistance. Grafton also received a comprehensive SHINE evaluation. Grafton was spending a large portion of her limited income on minimum payments for a couple of credit cards that she had not used in the last few years, but was unable to make any progress on the balance due to high interest rates and fees. Through her involvement with the Money Management Program, Grafton, was able to invoke her Consumer Protection Rights and stop the numerous calls to her residence, establish a livable budget, and meet her basic needs. Grafton was also referred to meet with an Options Counselor (see page 10) and is now on the wait list for more affordable housing.

***** All names have been changed to protect the privacy of our clients

Nursing ServicesElder Services' registered nurses (RN) do Clinical Assessment and Eligibility (CAE) for nursing home admissions and to help nursing home residents return home. All Berkshire County Medicaid recipients age 22 or older seeking admission to nursing homes must be approved for placement by requesting pre-admission screening by Elder Services. Medicaid recipients who are determined inappropriate for nursing home placement will have a community-based service plan devel-oped by an Elder Services' Client Services Coordinator. Elder Services' Comprehensive Screening and Service

Model (CSSM) works in collaboration with long-term-care facilities to cre-ate a formal process for safe and appropriate transitions of nursing home residents to their own homes and communities.

One of the most difficult decisions faced by family members is the thought of having to move a family member into a nursing home. Many older adults and their loved ones may not be familiar with making this kind of decision, or knowing what other service options exist.

The nurse meets with elders and family members to explain nursing home admission criteria, screen for eligibility, and explore alternatives in community care that may be available to keep someone home. Often clients require short term rehabilitation services in a nursing facility after a hospital stay. Before seniors are discharged, the Elder Services' nurse works closely with the nursing facility and the Elder Services' Client Services Coordina-tor to assist with a safe and appropriate discharge home, which may include home safety evaluation with recommended home modification and referrals for other home care services.

Elder Services’ nursing department serves as an integral part of the case management team, providing in home assessments for elders. Our nurses determine a plan of care for clients in need of assistance with personal care at the request of Elder Services' Client Services Coordinators. They visit elders in their homes to assess their needs for assistance with bathing or other personal hygiene and to evaluate the home environment to see if any accommodations such as safety equipment or adaptations need to be made before personal care begins.

Clients who can benefit from various community services are referred to those agencies. Assistance could range from a personal care worker assisting with bathing to moving to an assisted living or rest home program. If the community services that are available are not sufficient to meet the elder’s needs, we then approve them for nursing home admission.

Elder Services' Client Services Registered Nurses Francine Roy and Shirley Zawistowski.

July 2016

Ombudsman ProgramElder Services’ Long-Term-Care Ombudsman program has four main

goals: to receive, investigate and resolve complaints made by, or on behalf of older persons who are residents of nursing and rest homes; to protect resi-dent’s rights; to provide information; and to advocate for positive changes to the Long Term Care System.

Ombudsman volunteers visit each of Berkshire County’s 15 nursing homes at least once a week to ensure residents’ rights are being upheld, to monitor the general condition of the facilities, and to help resolve any com-plaints and problems. This past year, Ombudsman volunteers made more than 1,000 visits to Berkshire County nursing and rest homes, and investigated more than 150 complaints.

A volunteer Ombudsman said that upon his arrival to his assigned facility, "I observed a resident (who usually was quite talkative and engaged) who seemed very quiet and withdrawn. As we began to talk, he mentioned that he was feeling 'lousy' because his walker was literally falling apart. He showed me the basket on the front of his walker was hanging off and sometimes the brakes got stuck. I realized very quickly that for him this walker was much more than a tool to help him walk. The mobility it offered allowed him to remain connected to others. This resident was always neat and clean, and it was important to him to have his walker in good condition. When I brought this issue to the attention of the facility administrator, she notified me that this resident (being a veteran) might be eligible for a new walker. In two weeks the resident had a brand new walker. I was grateful that with all of us working together, this resident's quality of life was enriched and that, as an Ombudsman, I was happy to be part of this process."

Options Counseling

John Arthur Miller and Laura Tatro are Elder Services’ Options Coun-selors (above). They provide free interactive, short-term decision-support process to assist consumers, family members, caregivers and/or significant others to make an informed choice about long-term services and supports.

All too often, the need for a long-term solution comes upon a family at a time of crisis. It can be overwhelming to understand the full breadth of choices and how to prioritize your decisions. That’s where we can help. Elder Services’ Options Counselors provide the clarity and compassion to support you through this difficult time. They will bring the resources to you and allow you the peace of mind to know you are making the best decisions for your loved one.

Elder Services' ProgramsSenior Community Service

Employment Program (SCSEP)The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is an

employment and training program administered by Elder Services. The program provides on-the-job training to unemployed, low-income individu-als age 55 and older, while they enjoy part-time subsidized employment in a local non-profit agency or government office. The goal is for the participants to transition to unsubsidized employment in the public or private sector.

At 69 years old, and almost two years after retiring from her career in bookkeeping, Anne Crouse decided that she wanted to return to work. She missed being in the workplace and the income it generated, but she found it difficult to find work at her age. So in 2010, at the recommendation of her daughter, Crouse reached out to our Senior Community Service Employ-ment Program (SCSEP) for help in training to securing part-time em-ployment.

Over the course of four years, Crouse excelled in multiple SCSEP training programs. She took ad-vantage of classroom opportunities including Microsoft Office (Word,

Excel, and PowerPoint), QuickBooks, job interviewing, problem solving, motivation, listening and communication skills, and confidence building. During this time, she also worked in rewarding SCSEP supported positions within our community as an activities assistant in a nursing home and as of-fice support staff for a community health organization.

Crouse credits the SCSEP program with allowing her the freedom and security to develop several new skills that she would otherwise not have had an opportunity to try. She eventually took a permanent office assistant position in a local church where she was promptly promoted to office administrator. She is thrilled with the fellowship that she found with her new church family and hopes to continue working as long as she can.

SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone)

Elder Services’ SHINE volunteers are trained to help elders understand their Medicare/Medicaid benefits and other health insurance options. They provide free unbiased health insurance information, counseling and assistance to Medicare recipients and their caregivers.

Susan Stapler contacted the SHINE Program at her local Council on Aging three months prior to her 65 birthday. Stapler, like many of her contemporaries, had concerns regarding the transition from her current insurance coverage to Medicare. Would coverage be affordable? How do I know that I’m choosing the best drug coverage for my needs? What about Supplements, networks, and my wellness needs? Stapler was able to participate in a free SHINE counseling session in her hometown during which time she was screened for public benefits related to insurance, provided a comprehensive overview

Recent SHINE Graduates Hedy Burbank, Larry Shea, William Eade, and Dawn Regan. The next class for SHINE counselors begin their training this month. The program hopes to help a record number of seniors this fall.

Thanks to Elder Services' SCSEP Program Anne Crouse found rewarding employment.


of the Medicare system, and ultimately left the appointment having applied for her coverage. Stapler was also instructed to check back-in during Open Enrollment (October 15 to December 7) to have her coverage re-evaluated for the coming year.

Jack Lee, a 72 year old veteran, had contacted the Elder Services' SHINE Program last summer. Lee was living on a fixed income and was having difficulty purchasing his medications while maintaining his other needs. Lee met with a SHINE Counselor and was determined to be likely eligible for Extra Help, a federal program that assists eligible parties with their drug coverage premiums and copays. The SHINE Counselor assisted Lee with the application process, helped locate a more cost-effective drug plan, and now the monthly cost of his medications has decreased from nearly $300 per month to approximately $75.00. Lee was also encouraged to speak to his local Veterans Agent to discuss additional financial and medical benefits that he might have been eligible for.

Agnes Briggs, a disabled 32 year old woman, had received notice of her pending eligibility for Medicare and the discontinuation of some of her insurance benefits as a result. Briggs was very concerned about the cost of Medicare, as she had been paying few copays and was living on a fixed income. Briggs was able to meet with a SHINE Counselor at no cost and received detailed counseling regarding her forthcoming coverage. Briggs was able to leave the appointment confident in the fact that she would continue to have sufficient medical coverage.

For a list of SHINE counselor locations and contact information, see page 5.

State Home Care ServicesElder Services’ State Home Care programs, which serve over 1,000 seniors a month, provide an array of essential in-home services that are designed to help support independent living. These services include as-sistance with personal care needs such as dressing, bathing, and bath-room assistance, and with household needs such as laundry and homemak-ing. Elder Services offers home care services to individuals in Berkshire County who are over age 60 and qualify based on income and spe-

cific functional impairments, such as difficulty cleaning, doing laundry, going shopping, and taking care of personal care needs.

One example involves Ann and Bruce Dobson who were only married 10 years when their world was turned upside down. Retired by then, Bruce had taken a job delivering the "Berkshire Eagle." One morning, Bruce did not come home. He had lost his way and ended up in Albany, NY. He was taken to Albany Medical Center by the New York State Police. Several doctors’ appointments later, he was diagnosed with dementia. Ann, 15 years younger than Bruce, was still working full-time. “At first, I tried to do it all on my own and continue working.” She would come home on her breaks during the day and tend to his needs. Ann reached out to Elder Services for help. Bruce began to receive home delivered meals five days a week. This not only provided him with a nutritious, hot noontime meal, but he also received a daily well-being check by his Meals on Wheels driver. As Bruce’s disease began to progress and his care needs increased, it was clear that he and Ann would require more support to allow him to remain at home. In 2014, Ann reached out again to Elder Services for help. Overwhelmed with the demands of working full time and being the sole caregiver for her husband, Ann re-ports, “This was when I was at my lowest point.” A case manager came to the home to help Ann and Bruce develop a service plan that would provide him the help he needed with personal care, meal preparation, companionship, laundry and cleaning while Ann continued to work.

Ann says, “Elder Services gave me hope and has changed our lives.” Bruce’s case manager, Sara Dastoli, assisted Ann with applying for MassHealth under the Frail Elder Program for Bruce, which has helped cover the cost of his medical care and services, including his medications. Ann says of Sara, “she is truly a wonderful woman who is caring and compassionate. Even today, just the sound of her voice calms me down.” Bruce currently receives in-home help seven days a week, giving Ann a much-deserved respite from her caregiving duties for at least part of the day. She is also thankful for the two home health aides assigned to Bruce from Porchlight Home Care under their contract with Elder Services. “Marge and Rick are patient and caring, just wonderful. They are like family to us and give me peace of mind.” Ann admits, “I still have my moments, but I owe Elder Services so much.”

Elder Services' ProgramsSupportive Housing at Providence

CourtProvidence Court Senior Housing is a five-story high rise managed by

the Pittsfield Housing Authority, with Supportive Services provided through Elder Services of Berkshire County. The former St. Luke’s Hospital was converted to senior housing in 1981. Supportive Housing at Providence Court in Pittsfield is a collaborative effort between Elder Services and the Pittsfield Housing Authority to provide assisted-living-like services to Providence Court residents.

Providence Court offers on-site noontime community meals, and the presence of a part-time Elder Services’ Residential Coordinator, who helps set up and oversee services for the residents. Providence Court also offers on-site Personal Care services for residents.

Volunteer ServicesElder Services of Berkshire County relies on 198 active volunteers to help

provide services in the Berkshires. These volunteers may provide transporta-tion, grocery shopping, or companionship. Some complete intensive training to supply money management services or benefits counseling and SHINE advising. Many deliver Meals on Wheels and provide a nourishing meal and a warm smile.

Our entire volunteer program is staffed with only two part-time coordina-tors who recruit and schedule volunteers for service to those we serve. We welcome new volunteers year-round. We are seeking help from those with a wide range of skills and expertise. Please call Elder Services at 1-800-544-5242 or 499-0524 to become part of this special team.

Meals On Wheels Volunteer

Mission Statement

The mission of Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. is to provide Berkshire elders, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and self-determi-nation, and to achieve the highest possible quality of life.

Statement of Inclusivity

Elder Services practices non-discrimination in employment prac-tices and service delivery. Embracing diversity, our in-home and community-based services are available to all without regard to race, ethnicity, language, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or lifestyle.

July 2016

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 RememberApril Memorial Donations

Elder Services

Elder Independence Appeal

Ms. Amy DavidsonMs. Michele Gilligan

Bernadette AllardMs. Deborah AllardMr. & Mrs. Mark CahoonMr. & Mrs. Thomas MalangaMr. & Mrs. Keith NoelMs. Lisa OlsonMr. & Mrs. Lawrence Sands

Barbara Cady & Mary Contino

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Balawender

Kathryn McCarthyPolish National Alliance, Group 1365

EleanoreSpringstubeMs. Cynthia Muenkel

Helen St. PierreMs. Susan Sorcinelli Mrs. Jane Betti

Mr. & Mrs. John DelisleMs. Phoebe HoringMr. & Mrs. Ron KinnasMs. Barbara Noyes

Ms. Jane PerrasSpecialty Minerals, Inc.Mr. & Mrs. William E. ThompsonMr. Jeff WaingrowMr. & Mrs. Richard Ziarnick

Ms. Elaine Steinert

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

Spreading the good newsMichele Gilligan, Elder Services’ SHINE and Benef i t s Counsel ing Volunteer recently helped promote Elder Services' programs and services and at St. Peter’s Church in Great Barrington.

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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

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SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITY

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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

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July 2016

Our Community

Rainbow Seniors Serves LGBTQ EldersPittsfield: The first Saturday of the month, July 2, August 6, at the Berk-

shire Athenaeum Conference Room 2 - 4 p. m.

Williamstown: The third Tuesday of each month 12 - 2 p. m., featuring our traditional potluck lunches and programs at First Congregational Church of Williamstown (906 Main St., at Route 2 and Chapin Hall Road (July 19,

August 16)

For the latest schedule & information, contact Ed at 413-441-6006 or ed@rain-

bowseniors.org. Sign up for our email announcements and

never miss a minute of the fun.

growing, and risk of abuse is an in-creasing concern. Elder abuse should not be ignored. With the help from the community, we will have the power to intervene and assist these elders in need. When Protective Service staff does get involved, they work with elders to respect their wishes and their right to self-determination. In many cases, simple interventions can be provided and go a long way to improve the situation.

Elder Protective Services covers every town in Berkshire County. Since July 1st, 2015, we received a total of 605 reports in Berkshire County. Do not hesitate to call and

ABUSE PAGE 1 make a report if you have a concern about an elder who may be abused or self-neglecting. All reports are confidential. During regular busi-ness hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., call 1-855-874-3242 to make a report. Reports can also be made to the Elder Abuse Hotline – evenings, weekends, and holidays –at 1-800-922-2275. If a situation is life-threatening or there is immediate danger, call 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.Linda Puzan is the Regional Direc-tor of the Elder Protective Service Program for Berkshire and Franklin Counties, LifePath, Inc.

RSVP board member appreciates volunteer job with benefits

By Jane ApkinAs a volunteer RSVP Board Member, I have found the benefits are

twofold: I’ve learned that our Retired Senior Volunteer Program is very different than I’d thought. I’ve also discovered some inventive ways to serve the community through interpersonal connections.

Before joining the board, I saw RSVP as “those retired guys that give seniors a ride to the doctor,” but now I know that RSVP’s 324 volunteers serve at 68 stations to help people of all ages in different ways. Some vol-unteers read to children, others bake, and still others help with tax prepara-tion. RSVP volunteers donate time and work worth over $80,000 annually.

Marissa Boggins, our Volunteer Coordinator, is fantastic at access-ing the full potential of seniors who are looking for meaningful volunteer service by guiding each one to the perfect setting for their particular skill set. My own principle is that we all need a reason to get out of bed in the morning — which feels best when it’s to help someone else. Boggins makes sure our volunteers love getting up each morning!

The second benefit is my newfound connection with the movers and shakers of the 55-plus crowd. In a mostly rural area like Berkshire Coun-ty, seniors need comprehensive access to multiple support organizations at once, which in turn requires a strong network of public and private sector agencies making constant cross-referrals to meet the ever-changing and varied needs of each senior.

Collaboration and open communication are key to ensuring our service organizations act together as a cohesive service “net.” Most members of the RSVP board work in service-oriented vocations. Each member forges relationships that further our awareness of, and familiarity with, other lo-cal agencies. Our net becomes stronger and more effective through these connections, thereby not only improving our ability to promote the mission of RSVP but also serving all the nooks and crannies of our community as a whole. Jane Apkin, M.A. CCC-SLP served as a medical Speech-Language Pa-thologist and Rehabilitation Administrator for over 20 years. She opened our Seniors Helping Seniors location to enable seniors in our community to “get a little help from a friend” as well as to provide another viable senior employment option in Western Massachusetts.


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¿Habla usted español?Elder Services cuenta con

servicios de intérpretes y en los folletos de la agencia está dis-ponible 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

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Personal Emergency Response Service

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Elder Services' Nutrition Program

July

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

SENIORS 60 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER

Suggested Donation - $2.00

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

Dietary Information

All meals include 1% Milk 102 calories/107 mg sodium. Calories and sodium from salad dressings, margarine, crackers and condiments are not included. *High Sodium Entree **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.

1668

8543

1211

Calories 708 Sodium: 1025

4 5 6 7 837 620 70 218

8 109 86 319251 43 64 9150 110 178 215

5 1 132 015

Calories 576 Sodium: 558 Calories: 664 Sodium: 990 Calories 576 Sodium 652 Calories: 831 Sodium: 868

11 12 13 *high sodium meal* 14 1569 512 216 207 38285 97 238 8 6

2 23 475 26 3121 132 213 132 99

1 141 0 5 10

Calories: 659 Sodium: 385 Calories: 745 Sodium: 1012 Calories: 684 Sodium: 1249 Calories: 682 Sodium: 485 Calories: 606 Sodium: 607

18 19 20 21 22550 285 219 577 820213 56 85 63 97140 4 109 119 16169 355 121 110 99

5 5 10 1 5

Calories 827 Sodium: 1184 Calories: 783 Sodium: 812 Calories: 644 Sodium: 651 Calories: 628 Sodium: 977 Calories: 689 Sodium: 1144

25 28 29410 931 290 320 147

65 181

275193

107 59 9 8 179

110 43 1 109 213

39 132 123 121 1510 0 5

Calories: 681 Sodium: 779 Calories 595 Sodium: 1287 Calories 606 Sodium: 711 Calories 577 Sodium: 945 Calories: 740 Sodium: 854

Green BeansMultigrain Bread

Pineapple Chunks

Tossed Green SaladHamburger Roll

Orange

Chicken a la King Beef Burgundy Pepper SteakBrown Rice Noodles Roasted Potato

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Oatmeal Bread Hot Dog Roll Whole Wheat Roll

4TH OF JULY HOLIDAY Stewed Tomatoes Mixed Vegetable

Roast Turkey w/ Gravy Tuna Salad

Apricots

Harvard BeetsDinner Roll

Applesauce

Potato Salad

Winter Squash Seasoned KaleMacaroni SaladMashed Potato

Three Bean SaladPeas & Carrots (HDM)Dinner Roll

Orange

Rye Bread Whole Wheat BreadDiced Pears Pineapple Chunks

27

Carrot Raisin SaladSpinachSugar Snap PeasOatmeal Bread Whole Wheat Bread

Grilled Chicken Breast

Hot Dog* Calico Beans w/ Sausage Chef's SaladHot Dog Roll

Beef StewBrown RiceBoiled Potato

Brown RiceCarrots

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

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

Chicken Nuggets w/ Teriyaki *What to look for in yogurt when you find it hard to read the little print. 1. No added sugar or the other like sugars such as maple syrup, agave, honey and evaporated

cane juice. 2. No artificial sweeteners except for Stevia or sugar alcohols like erythritol. 3. 160 calories or less. 4. At least 8 grams of protein. 5. 2 grams or less of

saturated fat and 6. 120 mg or more of Calcium. Enjoy a snack of yogurt.

Poached Rainbow Trout Breaded Chicken Filet* Pork Roast Chicken Salad

Oatmeal BreadPineapple Chunks

Noodles Rice Pilaf Pork Gravy Pasta Salad

Fruit MixVanilla Pudding w/ Topping**Tossed Green Salad (Cong)

PearsBiscuits

Fruit Mix Banana Apricots

Baked BeansColeslaw

Chicken w/ Barbecue Sauce*Mashed Potato

Braised CabbageMultigrain Bread

Peaches

ApplesauceSpiced Apples

Italian BreadCorn (HDM)

BroccoliMeat Sauce

Lasagna Roll

Oatmeal Bread

Polynesian SauceButtered Noodles

Spinach

Krabby Patty

Roasted PotatoesCauliflower au GratinWhole Wheat Bread

Yogurt w/Fruit

26 *high sodium meal* Baked Ham*

Raisin SauceScalloped Potatoes

CarrotsDinner Roll

Fresh PeachTropical FruitTossed Green Salad (Cong)

Egg Salad

Potato SaladCold Spiced Beets

Hot Dog Roll

of Berkshire County, Inc. • Proudly promoting Elder ... 2016.pdf · introduce the Seniors and...

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Transcript of of Berkshire County, Inc. • Proudly promoting Elder ... 2016.pdf · introduce the Seniors and...