Berkshire Senior June-July 2022 by New England Newspapers, Inc.

Your Care, Your Home, Your Neighbors

Elder Abuse Awareness Berkshire County Farmers’ Markets July in Pittsfield

“I’m so glad I called HospiceCare in The Berkshires when I did.” “They helped us make every moment matter.” Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

“When Mom got sick, I was so overwhelmed managing her care, filling out paperwork, and trying to be there for her. Thankfully, HospiceCare in The Berkshires was there to make everything easier. They provided compassionate care, that supported a quality of life for Mom.”

Offering compassion to our community: • Emotional and spiritual support • Symptom management

• Integrative therapies • Home health aides

• Meaningful end-of-life care • Bereavement counseling

How will you know when it’s time to call hospice? Visit www.HCIB.org/WhenToCallHospice to learn more. 877 South Street, Suite 1W • Pittsfield, MA 413-443-2994 • www.hcib.org

The difference is in our care

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-determination, and to achieve the highest possible quality of life.

Statement of Inclusivity Elder Services practices non-discrimination in employment practices 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.

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Berkshire Senior Editorial Board: Deb Aldrich, Kimberly Kelly , Christine Thomson, Laura Feakes, Christopher McLaughlin, Kathleen Cleary, Kathleen Phillips, Susan Guerrero and Kara Graziola. Advertising: To place an advertisement in Berkshire Senior, please contact Kate Teutsch at (413) 496-6324 or e-mail advertising@berkshireeagle.com. Berkshire Senior is published bi-monthly by Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc., 877 South Street, Suite 4E, Pittsfield, MA 01201, 499-0524 or 1-800-5445242, e-mail: esbc@esbci.org or on the internet at www.esbci.org. NOTICE

Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of Elder Services. For medical, financial or other advice, seek a qualified professional in the appropriate field. Elder Services and its programs are funded, in part, by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs. 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.

By Christopher McLaughlin, Executive Director of Elder Services Hoping all is well with you and yours. As I write this, it is a 65-degree day with much warmer temperatures expected this weekend. Berkshire County is again in the red for COVID. I hope this is only temporary since, until recently, it looked like we were beginning to put the pandemic behind us. It would be nice to enjoy all the Berkshires has to offer this summer without the Coronavirus being top of mind. As this is our mid-year issue, we thought it made sense to share some of the recent feedback we have received from our consumers (clients) and their families. In the normal course of things, we receive consistent calls, e-mails, letters and cards from people letting us know about their experiences with our Agency and its services. For the most part, the feedback we receive is very favorable though there are occasionally instances in which our consumers let us know there is room for improvement. What follows are the actual comments received from our consumers and their families or the narratives provided by our staff from phone conversations they have had with families and consumers: “Thank you for helping schedule our COVID shots. We appreciate what you did for us.” “My mother used your services for years. It is because of your services that she was able to remain in her home until her passing. The wonderful people like her driver for meals on wheels who would check on her every day and her (home care) aide who for years helped with her showers and cleaned her house. These people will always remain in our thoughts for the wonderful support to her.” “I wanted to write to thank you for the help that was provided to me in helping me get the right supplemental insurance for my upcoming retirement in January of 2022. The woman who contacted me was fantastic…and could not have been any more helpful. Not only was she very informative but courteous, kind and thoughtful. My hats off to her and this whole organization for what you do for people like me.” “I just wanted to pass along that I got glowing praise for Sam yesterday (Sam is a Clinician on our Elder Mental Health Outreach Team). I met with a consumer and his daughters yesterday and they appreciate her and how she has gotten the consumer to open up. I saw a difference from when I opened his case six months ago.” “I’d like to share some pleasantries from a consumer of Nutrition. continued on page 4

Contents

Elder Abuse Awareness �� 5 July in Pittsfield ��11 Farmers’ Markets �� 6 Summer in the Berkshires ��12 Hinsdale/Peru COA �� 7 Donations ��14 New Dialing Codes for Suicide Prevention �� 8 Gardening for Seniors ��14 Who Doesn’t Love a Parade �� 9 Letter from the Board President ��15 Meals on Wheels �� 9 COVER PHOTO: Photos from our Volunteer Recognition Events.

Volume 40, Number 3 June 2022 The bi-monthly newspaper for Berkshire County seniors

FREE

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

Berkshire Senior advertising helps to the defray the costs of producing the newspaper. Inclusion of advertisers in no way implies that Elder Services endorses any product or service.

Comments from Seniors and Families

ELDER SERVICES UPDATE

Mission Statement

ASSISTANCE

Comments

continued from page 3

Since 1983 MOLARI HealthCare has enjoyed providing our neighbors in Berkshire County with trusted, quality homecare. Working as your partner, our staff will create a flexible care plan to fit your needs. With MOLARI you are assured that you and your care is our number one priority. MOLARI is committed to providing the best possible solution for your home healthcare needs.

Services offered by MOLARI • Laundry Services • Assistance with Transportation • Shopping and Errands • Respite Care

• Assistance with Personal Care • Medication Reminders • Meal Preparation • Light Housekeeping • Companionship

166 East Street • Pittsfield, MA 01201 413-499-4562 or 1-800-649-4562 Visit us on the web: www.MOLARIinc.com

The way YOU would like to be remembered...

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

Allow us to put your vision in place and put your family’s mind at ease. Please call us to inquire about our preplanning guide or at need services.

F r i e n d s h e l p i n g f r i e n d s s i n c e 1915 4 0 M A P L E WO OD AV E N U E • P I T T S F I E L D, M A 012 01

C A L L U S: 4 13. 4 4 5. 5 9 8 8 Proud af f iliate of Car riage Ser vices

C a r o l i n e R . S u l l iv a n | J o h n W. B r e s n a h a n

The family would like us to know that the meal today was absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection. They also let it be known that their driver is wonderful and always has a smile on his face. He spends a little extra time each day making conversation with her and her husband, which her husband is enjoying very much. She states that she was reluctant at first to join the program but she is glad that they did.” “Please accept this donation to the SHINE program. I would like to recognize one of your employees at Elder Services: Shauna Post. As she did last year, she went above and beyond in assisting me with one of my elderly clients along with my own personal drug plan. She is an asset to your organization and the SHINE Program. Keep up the wonderful work Elder Services provides.” “I want to thank all of you that have provided services for my

mom for the past 13 years and many more before that when my dad was alive. We are very grateful that you have provided such great services to her all these years.” “My meals on wheels driver is fantastic. She is always concerned about the people on her route and checking in on them and ensuring their welfare. She is truly super.” These are comments about a few of the programs we offer. Elder Services offers many other programs and services, too many to list here. My hope in providing this feedback from our consumers is that if you’ve been “on the fence” about reaching out to Elder Services to inquire about services for you or someone you love, this may convince you it’s time to call (413) 499-0524. We would love to hear from you! Until next time be good, be kind and be careful.

We’re by your side so your loved one can stay at home. Call (413) 442-0907 or visit HomeInstead.com/ Berkshire

PERSONAL CARE | MEMORY CARE |

MEALS & NUTRITION HOSPICE SUPPORT

by Dean Lagrotteria

Exploitation can lead to: • Inability to afford vital medications, increasing medical risks and hospitalizations • Inability to pay for food leading to poor nutrition • Homelessness due to failure to pay rent • Lack of utilities due to failure to pay phone, electric or fuel bills • Inability to pay for needed personal or home care. • Impact on eligibility to Masshealth for long term care • Fractured relationships and mistrust of family and friends, which can lead to social isolation. It’s important to catch the signs of exploitation early for there to be the possibility of prevention and or recovery. Some of the signs of exploitation are as follows: • Sudden changes in their bank accounts, such as adding new names to accounts and cards • Finding unpaid bills, letters from collection agencies or past due notices from creditors even if the person has adequate financial resources • Inability to pay for necessities even though the person has adequate income • The sudden transfer of assets to someone outside or inside the family • A change in spending habits, such as no longer wanting to go shopping or out to eat • Acting worried or stressed out about money • Unemployed individual living with the older adult and not contributing to expenses

Providing comprehensive hearing healthcare in the Berkshires for 20 years s Diagnostic Hearing Evaluations s Tinnitus Treatment s Hearing Aid Dispensing s Custom Hearing Protection s Hearing Aid Repairs s Musician’s Filters 510 North Street, Suite 9, Pittsfield, MA 01201 • (413) 443-4800 • greylockaudiology.com

How can you protect yourself or your loved ones? There are some basic steps: • Appoint someone you trust as Power of Attorney. • Educate yourself on recent scams. A good resources is here: https://www.mass.gov/guides/ a-consumer-guide-to-scams. • Stay active, socialize with family and friends, and avoid social isolation. • Keep legal documents in a safe place, protect your passwords and PINs, and only share financial information with people you trust. • Tech tools such as EverSafe and Life Lock can detect suspicious activity — like missing deposits, unusual withdrawals or abrupt changes in spending patterns — and notify you and a trusted advocate. • Know who your caregivers are. Consider using a reputable home health agency for your in home care needs. • Monitor your credit report at https://www.usa.gov/creditreports. Those are just some of the ways you can protect yourself or those you care about. If you believe that you or a loved one is the victim of financial exploitation you can file an Elder Protective Services report at 1-800-922-2275 or online at https://www.mass.gov/reportingelder-abuse-neglect. A skilled Protective Services Worker will meet with the victim, complete an assessment and discuss remedies and prevention.

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

June is Elder Abuse Awareness month and June 15 is known as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD)---a day that is meant to bring awareness to the issue of elder abuse. Elder abuse can take many forms like physical abuse, neglect, or emotional abuse. One abuse that can have a significant impact on the health and safety of older adults is financial exploitation. Financial exploitation in Massachusetts is defined in law as: “an act or omission by another person, which causes a substantial monetary or proper ty loss to an elderly person, or causes a substantial monetary or property gain to the other person,... The law goes on to say that an act or omission by another person is not considered financial exploitation: ...if the elderly person has knowingly consented to such act or omission unless such consent is a consequence of misrepresentation, undue influence, coercion or threat of force by such other person…” Elder financial exploitation is on the rise nationwide and it can have devastating outcomes fo r o l d e r a d u l t s. Va r i o u s studies estimate that financial exploitation has grown by 10 percent since 2019, rising from 7.8 million to 8.6 million cases with total losses exceeding $113

billion per year. More than 1 in 10 older adults in the US fell victim to exploitation in 2020. The National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) estimates that only 1 in 44 cases of financial exploitation is reported. There can be many reasons for this lack of reporting--a misunderstanding of what is considered exploitation, where to report, fear of getting a family member or friend in trouble, or embarrassment. The majority of those who perpetrate exploitation are known to the older adult. Family members, particularly adult children, are by far the largest group of perpetrators. There may be other family members, friends, acquaintances or caregivers who also exploit older adults. . Online, mail and phone scammers are another group who exploit older adults. Older adults become vulnerable to exploitation for many reasons. Cognitive impairment or a historic lack of financial literacy can affect reasoning and the ability to manipulate and understand one’s own finances. Often older adults rely upon informal support for care, transportation and socialization. Fear of losing those connections and support can lead an older adult to “tolerate” the misuse of their funds when the alternative may be decreased safety at home and the possible need for institutional care. The consequences of financial exploitation can have impact beyond just a loss of assets. For low income older adults any loss can be particularly devastating.

ELDER ABUSE

Elder Abuse Awareness

Dr. Andrew J. Puttick Au.D., F-AAA

FARMERS’ MARKETS

Berkshire County Farmers’ Markets 2022 by Laura Feakes Find the bounty of Massachusetts agriculture at your Local Farmers’ Market! You can expect to find a wide array of fresh vegetables and fruits. You may also find baked goods, maple products, honey, eggs, farmstead cheeses, apple cider, jams and jellies, flowers, and even turkeys and meats. To make the Farmers’ Markets more affordable to all, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers Senior Farmers’ Market Coupons and, in addition, many Farmers’ Markets are able to accept EBT-SNAP benefits. To use your SNAP benefits at the Market find the Manager’s or Information Booth when you arrive. Tell the person at the booth you would like to use your EBT card at the market and they will explain how it works. If you are a SNAP household, you will be automatically enrolled in HIP, the Healthy Incentives Program and may be eligible to receive $1 for each dollar you spend

on eligible fruits and vegetables, up to a monthly limit. SNAP benefits can also now be used for online ordering at some markets. Senior Far mers’ Market Coupons are usually not available until after July 1 – check with your local Council on Aging or Senior Center after that date. To be eligible for coupons you must be 60 years of age or older, or disabled and living in senior housing where cong re g ate nutrition services are provided, and your g ross household income (i.e. before taxes are withheld) must be no more than 185 % of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines. The guidelines for 2022: 1 person household, $25,142/ yr. ($2,095/m); 2 person $33,874/ yr. ($2,823/m). Farmers’ Market Senior coupons are worth $2.50 and are used like cash with participating farmers at certified Farmers’ Markets. Look for the Farmers’ Market Coupons Accepted sign at individual farmers’ stalls at the market. If

you do not see the sign, just ask the grower if he/she participates in the program. No change is given for the coupons, so be sure to use the full amount of every coupon with each purchase. The coupons expire October 31st. Please note: Markets may have mask wearing and social d i s t a n c i n g p ro t o c o l s. S e e individual market websites for detailed market safety guidelines. Berkshire Area/Lanesboro Farmers’ Market Berkshire Mall South Parking Lot; Route 8 until November – Saturdays, 8 am - 2 pm See them on Facebook WIC / Senior Coupons Accepted, SNAP-EBT/HIP accepted by select vendors only Great Barrington Farmers’ Market 18 Church Street until November 12 – Saturdays, 9 am - 1 pm WIC & Senior Coupons, & EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted www.greatbarringtonfarmersmarket.org, also on Facebook

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

Hancock Farmers Market 3210 Hancock Rd / Rt. 43 Appletree Hill Organic Farm farm stand June to October weekends

When it comes to caring for seniors, it’s a matter of trust Meet the Berkshires Senior Care Family

Springside 255 Lebanon Ave Pittsfield 413-499-2334 Rehabilitation Skilled Care

Craneville Place 265 Main Street Dalton 413-684-3212 Rehabilitation Skilled Care

Sugar Hill 45 Main Street Dalton 413-684-0100 Independent Living Assisted Living • Memory Care

Visit us online at www.BaneCare.com

Lee Farmers’ Market Town Green next to Town Hall & First Congregational Church until October 8 – Saturdays 10am – 2pm WIC & Senior Coupons, EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted www.leefarmersmarket.com See them on Facebook Lenox Farmers Market 80 Church St until September 30 – Fridays, 11am - 3 pm WIC, Senior Coupons, EBTSNAP Accepted by select vendors only https://lenox.org/ lenox-farmers-market New Marlborough New Marlborough Village Green (Route 57) Sundays 10-1 through October WIC, Senior Coupons Accepted. On Facebook

North Adams Farmers’ Market Marshall St. & Center St-St. Anthony Municipal Parking Lot June 4 to October – Saturdays, 9 am - 1 pm WIC, Senior Coupons & EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted explorenorthadams.com/item/ north-adams-farmers-market Otis Farmers’ Market 2000 East Otis Rd-Papa’s Food & Fuel, Rt. 23 until October – Saturdays, 9 am - 1 pm WIC & Senior Coupons Accepted, SNAP-EBT/HIP accepted with select vendors only Pittsfield/Downtown Farmers’ Market On the Common across from the First Street Parking Lot until October 8 – Saturdays, 9 am - 1 pm WIC, Senior Coupons, & EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted farmersmarketpittsfield.org, also on Facebook Sheffield Farmers’ Market 125 S Main St-Old Parish Church Parking Lot until October 7 – Fridays, 3 – 6 pm WIC & Senior Coupons, EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted, www.sheffieldfarmersmarket.org see them on Facebook West Stockbridge Farmers’ Market Foundry Green on Harris StreetVillage Center until October 6 – Thursdays, 3 - 6 pm WIC, Senior Coupons, & EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted www. weststockbridgefarmersmarket. org See them on Facebook Williamstown Farmers’ Market Spring Street parking lot until October – Saturdays, 9 am - 1 pm WIC, Senior Coupons, HIP, SNAP Accepted www. williamstownfarmersmarket.org

by Isaac Share Berkshire County is known for its delicious locally grown foods – just think about those turnips that they grow on Florida Mountain. A common conundrum some seniors can find themselves in is knowing that they should eat a healthy and organic diet, but having a hard time affording to do so. The U.S Department of Agriculture has created the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Prog ram to enable seniors to eat healthier by providing coupons that can be used at Farmers’ Markets to qualifying

individuals. Elder Services receives the coupons from the Department of Agriculture and then disperses them to Senior Centers throughout the county. Farmers’ Market Coupons will be available at Berkshire County Senior Centers this summer. These coupons can be used at participating Farmers’ Markets to purchase the following healthy items: fruits, vegetables, cut herbs, and honey. While the coupons are planned to be shipped to our area by the end of June 2022, recent supply chain issues may push back the actual date that the coupons arrive to the Senior Centers. Interested

Hinsdale/Peru COA Happenings, June 2022 by Carol Ann Pullo, Hinsdale/ Peru Council on Aging

Individuals who receive SNAP benefits will automatically be enrolled in HIP (Healthy Incentives Program), which reimburses individuals dollarfor-dollar what they spend on ve getables at participating Farmers’ Market vendors. The cap for reimbursement is based on household size. 1-2 people will be allotted $40 in HIP reimbursement, a household of 3-5 will be provided with $60, and a household of 6 or more can be reimbursed up to $80 in HIP spending. HIP can be used simply by approaching a vendor that accepts SNAP and using your EBT card to purchase the HIP eligible items. The amount that you spend in HIP will be automatically put back onto your EBT card. SNAP recipients must have at least $1 of benefits left on their EBT card for HIP reimbursements to work.

BERKSHIRE PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS

BRENT SYLVIA, PT

JACKIE FARRELL, DPT THOMAS COONEY, DPT TIFFANY BROWER, PT

JOY MILANI, PT

Voted Best of the Berkshires!

SHAUNNA HOULE, DPT

RYAN TUGGEY, PTA

Pittsfield Office 740 Williams Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201 413-447-8070

ROBERT PADUANO, PT

Dalton Office 400 Main Street, Dalton, MA 01226 413-684-9783

NICOLE TUCKER, PT

AMANDA ROBERTS, DPT

Lenox Office 90 Pittsfield Road, Lenox, MA 01240 413-637-2810

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

The Hinsdale/Peru Council on Aging began in-person monthly luncheons for seniors in October 2021. We had to have events in the Hinsdale Fire House due to COVID spacing regulations put in place by the CDC. This has been quite a challenge since some of the Hinsdale volunteer firemen were called upon to move the equipment i.e. fire trucks, etc. out of the Fire House as well as to help set up tables and chairs for the senior luncheons. We are grateful for all the help they have provided! Each luncheon includes an educational speaker after lunch who talks on a topic of interest. There is a nominal charge for the lunch, while the Council picks up the balance. We attempt to have decorations in the theme of the holiday closest to the event. The COA Board meets to create the holiday centerpieces for the tables. In December we had the ever-popular complimentary Christmas Luncheon for seniors in Hinsdale and Peru. Dinner consisted of turkey, a vegetable, mashed potatoes and gravy with all the fixings. Live music was provided and hand-made

centerpieces were given out to the seniors. Speakers at the luncheons have included Police Officer Elizabeth Zipp, of the Hinsdale Police Dept., who spoke on “Tips for Avoiding Scams” for seniors; owners of Berkshire Cannabis Connect speaking on “Medical Marijuana” and Lee Rudin from Molari Health Care Services, who spoke on home care services they provide seniors. Our COA submitted a petition to the Hinsdale Select Board to proclaim “May 2022 as Older American Month and to urge every resident to recognize older adults and the people who support them as essential contributors to the strength of our community”. This proclamation and a poster were posted in the Hinsdale and Peru town halls as well as on their websites and Facebook accounts. Our Super Senior Birthday Party was held in May at Ozzie’s Steak and Eggs. This event is held annually for seniors in Hinsdale and Peru who are 90 years or older. Of course, there was cake, live music, balloons and gifts for each (attendeee were accompanied by a guest). A grand time was had by all.

seniors should contact their local Senior Center after the end of June to inquire whether the coupons are available for pickup or not. Eligibility for the coupons is based on age, ability, and income. Age and ability guidelines: individuals must be 60 years of age or older, or disabled and living in senior housing where congregate meal services are available. Income guidelines: must not have more income than 185% federal poverty level - 1 person-$25,142/year or $2,096/ month. 2 people-$33,874/year or $2,823/month. Coupons can be used like cash and are worth $2.50. Only participating vendors will accept the coupons. Vendors who will accept the coupons should have a sign that states: “Farmers’ Market Coupons Accepted” at their booth. Coupons must be used by October 31, 2022 Important to note: This benefit is separate from SNAP and HIP.

COA HAPPENINGS

Farmers’ Market Coupons Coming Soon

HEALTH NEWS

Berkshire Senior

Television

Isaac Share and Pam McDonald interview ESBCI Volunteers

Currently airing on PCTV Currently airing on PCTV, Channel 1301 Access Pittsfield Channel 1301 Access Pittsfield Broadcast schedule: Broadcast schedule: Mondays at 5:00PCTV p.m.channel ▪ Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. 1301 Mondays at 5 p.m., Tuesdays at 3 p.m., Thursdays 11 a.m. Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. ▪ Saturdays atatNoon & Saturday 11:30 a.m. Or watch online, ON DEMAND on pittsfieldtv.org. Thank you to our friends at PCTV for all their help in making Berkshire Senior TV accessible to our community.

The Lifeline and 988 - the new dialing code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. While some areas may be currently able to connect to the Lifeline by dialing 988, this dialing code will be available to everyone across the United States starting on July 16, 2022. When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary. The current Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-TALK (8255)) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, even after 988 is launched nationally. The Lifeline’s network of over 180 crisis centers has been in operation since 2005, and has been proven to be effective. It’s the counselors at these local crisis centers who answer the

contacts Lifeline receives every day. Numerous studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed and more hopeful after speaking with a Lifeline counselor. To learn about what happens when you call, text, or chat with the Lifeline, go to https:// suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ cur rent-events/the-lifelineand-988/. If you’re a Veteran, Service Member or loved one and want to know more about how 988 will affect the Veterans Crisis Line, go to www.veteranscrisisline.net/about/ what-is-988/. Once a Veteran’s telephone service provider makes 988 available, Veterans can use this new option by dialing 988 then pressing 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Veterans may still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the current phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1— through chat at www. veteranscrisisline.net/get-helpnow/chat/, and by text (838255).

Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

Long-Term Care

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by Christine Thomson

Community Dining Centers are likely to evolve. Please call for the latest update.

CITY/TOWN PHONE

ADDRESS

DAYS MEALS SERVED

SERVING TIME

NO. ADAMS 662-3125

SPITZER CENTER 116 Ashland St.

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

WILLIAMSTOWN 458-8250

HARPER CENTER 118 Church St.

M-W-F

11:30 am

ADAMS 743-8333

COMMUNITY CENTER M-T-W-TH-F 3 Hoosac St.

11:30 am

CHESHIRE 743-9719

SENIOR CENTER 119 School St.

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

LANESBORO 448-2682

TOWN HALL 83 North Main St.

M-W

11:30 am

DALTON 684-2000

SENIOR CENTER 40 Field St. Ext.

M-TH

12:00 pm

BECKET 623-8934

TOWN HALL Route 577 Main St.

T & TH

11:00 am

PITTSFIELD 499-9346

SENIOR CENTER 330 North St.

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

LENOX 637-5535

COMMUNITY CENTER M-T-W-TH-F 65 Walker St.

12:00 pm

LEE 243-5545

SENIOR CENTER 21 Crossway Village

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

GT. BARRINGTON 528-4118 PITTSFIELD 442-2200 KOSHER STOCKBRIDGE 298-3222

SENIOR CENTER 917 South Main St.

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

JEWISH COMM. CTR 16 Colt Road

M-T-TH

11:45 am

HEATON COURT 5 Pine St.

CLOSED

PROVIDENCE CT. 443-1841

PROVIDENCE COURT 379 East St.

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

STOCKBRIDGE 298-4170

SENIOR CENTER 50 Main St.

CLOSED

SHEFFIELD 229-7037

SENIOR CENTER 25 Cook Road

W&F

12:00 pm

Eligible seniors 60 years or older are welcome to attend any Senior Community Dining Center. Reservations are requested 24 hours in advance. Begining March 2022 a suggested donation is $3.00 per meal. All contributions are returned to the community toward the cost of the Nutrition Program and Services. Those 59 or under are welcome at a required fee of $8.00 per meal.

“Back With A Bang” by Marguerite Bride.

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

One of the many wonderful things about living in the Berkshires is the annual 4th of July Parade....our very own ‘Hometown Parade’. For most of us, the 4th of July parade is a tradition, a connection with neighbors, friends and family. Many revelers get an early start to claim their ‘spot’ by setting up chairs and the like. Some watch from building windows and porches, some atop vehicles. But don’t worry, there is always room for everyone. The kids’ smiling faces along the route say it all. There was even a time when the 4th of July parade was televised, so if you couldn’t attend in person you could watch the parade live on TV. I can still recall watching it with my kids when we lived in the state of Florida. Did you know that our hometown parade has quite an interesting history? According to the parade website: “The Pittsfield 4th of July Parade has an historic reputation dating back to 1824, when the procession consisted of Revolutionary War survivors, patriots, politicians and horse-drawn carriages. The parade was held off and on by various citizen groups until 1947 when it was taken over by the Pittsfield Permanent Firemen’s Association. Under the firemen, the parade grew in size and popularity but was discontinued in 1976. In 1977, a small group of volunteer citizens obtained $2,000 in seed money from the City of Pittsfield and held their first parade in 1978. Over the years, this independent, nonprofit organization-the Pittsfield 4th of July Parade Committee, Inc.- has grown in size, spirit, and determination, and with it, the parade has grown in size, quality, and popularity. This year will

mark 195 years since that first procession.” As you can see, the Pittsfield 4th of July Parade has been and remains important to Berkshire County. It’s part of who we are. This year the parade is back! The Parade Committee wanted to bring the parade back even bigger and better and has named this year’s theme ‘Back With a Bang’! Hoping for more floats, and marching bands and big balloons and everything!! It feels like that dim light at the end of the pandemic tunnel is becoming brighter! I cannot wait and hope to see you there. You don’t want to miss it! P.S. Pittsfield Community Television will provide free live video-on-demand stream of the Pittsfield 4th Of July Parade this year in case you can’t make it.

NUTRITION PROGRAM SENIOR COMMUNITY BERKSHIRE COUNTY DINING CENTERS Due to the end of the State of Emergency, the status and offerings of the Senior

MEALS ON WHEELS

Who doesn’t love a parade?

Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc.

MEALS ON WHEELS

Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care

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Enjoy life with a community of friends. Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

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by Susan Guerrero As a kid, the 4th of July always started off the month with a bang, both literally and figuratively. We lived on Onota Street in town. Our family consisted of our parents and five daughters. On July 4th, my father let us sit on the slanted roof of my playhouse to watch the fireworks that exploded in the dark sky above Wahconah Park. The playhouse was attached to the side of the garage. Actually, the park was quite far away from our house. However, we had a perfect view of the fireworks display in the night sky above it. It’s just that they were far away so appeared as a kind of miniature version. It was a dreamy, exciting, and wonderful way for kids to spend a hot summer’s night. We could sometimes hear a whistling noise as the fireworks speeded airborne and burst into glorious tentacles of color. All of us kids screamed our approval

almost loud enough to wake the souls at rest in the nearby Pittsfield Cemetery. Great fiery circles of blue, green pink, purple, red and yellow lit up the dark, night sky. There were also flashes of white followed by thundering blasts. We called these fireworks “boomers.” They never failed to make our hearts thump mightily in our chests. Sometimes, when the white light flashed, we’d cover our ears in anticipation of the blast to follow. In between fireworks, we watched the antics of dozens of fireflies. We called them lightning bugs. It seems their numbers have dwindled throughout the years. One doesn’t see fields full of them anymore. Sometimes we caught them inside empty mayonnaise jars. We’d punch holes in the lids so they could still breathe. One summer, one of my four sisters brought the jar filled with lightning bugs into the house and up into a bedroom. Somehow, it got knocked over and the lid popped off. Oh boy,

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the light show in our connecting bedrooms was luminous. We tried to keep our voices down low to avoid alerting our parents as to what was happening. One of the lessons learned that summer night was that lightning bugs were creepy when they crawled up a pajama leg. The next morning, we learned they were downright ugly in the daytime. July also brought many trips to the beach at Onota Lake; occasional visits to the Sunset Drive-In Theater in Lanesboro (always truly thrilling for us kids); trips to Red’s Dairy Bar on Cheshire Road to see the caged monkey; and playing out-of-door games, like “One-Two-Three Red light” and “Statue” in the front yard. We also listened intently

for sounds of the ice cream truck. When my father had a few bucks in his pocket, he’d buy us treats. Fudgesickles were my favorites. There is nothing like an icy chocolate treat on a hot summer’s night in the city. Those long-ago childhood days are now just memories. July in Pittsfield still has plenty of wonder in it, though. There are musicals and plays, concerts, flowers, and farmers’ markets, as well as the never-ending laughter of children at play. Even now, when I hear the carnival-like sound of the ice cream truck, it makes me want to chase it down but these days, it’s for the grandkids. However, don’t for a minute think that Grammie misses out on an occasional Fudgesickle.

PITTSFIELD MEMORIES

July in Pittsfield has always held a good amount of wonder...

Bob Pytko, Manager of Adams Hometown Market, presents Kathleen Philips, ESBCI Planning & Development Supervisor a check for the Meals on Wheels Program. The donation is the proceeds from the Market’s March “round-up donation” program where customers rounded up the total of their purchase to benefit Meals on Wheels.

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Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

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STAYCATION Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022 12

Summer In The Berkshires by Susan Guerrero The Berkshires are a perfect place for a “staycation.” Instead of vacationing out-of-town, one “stays” in familiar territory and explores local entertainment and visiting options. People of all ages in the Berkshires, including those over the age of 60, have a perfect opportunity to have a great summer, doing fun activities, without venturing far from home. How awesome is that? Instead of spending lots of money, looking for hotels, and trying to find places to go, a “staycation” here promises a myriad of enriching activities and fun things to do. Some cost money, many have senior discounts, and others are totally free. The following destinations are far from being a comprehensive list of what you can do in the Berkshires. Checking the daily newspaper, as well as going online, are the best ways to get weekly updates of coming attractions and offerings for seniors. A great free event, set for July 14 through 16 is the Friends Summer Book Sale at the Berkshire Athenaeum. This event offers a mind-boggling array of both soft cover and hard cover books for every age group. This summer’s sale also includes the following, according to information released by the Friends--- “All Things Irish,” $1 coffee table books and rare books, classic literature, travel guides, Black History and Literature, Genealogy, Berkshires and Beyond, Children’s and Young adult, piles of puzzles and games, and hundreds of music CDs and DVDs.” If anyone has not yet been to a Friends book sale, that person is in for a treat. It’s stuffy in the library basement in July, though, so wear an article of clothing that will keep you cool. The Friends have been around since 1938. In the past, proceeds from book sales have bought equipment as well as provided programming for library patrons of all ages. This is a great place to find items for grandchildren at very low prices. Bring an extra-large shopping bag for your purchases.

If, by chance, someone misses this summer’s sale, there will be two more. One is in November and the other next March. The Friends Summer Book Sale will be held Thursday, July 14, from 3 to 7 p.m.; Friday, July 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Saturday, July 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. P i t t s f i e l d h a s t wo ve r y beautiful natural lakes, Onota and Pontoosuc. Why not plan a picnic at one, or both of them? If grandchildren live nearby or even if they come for a visit to the Berkshires, they would be sure to love going on a picnic. For people who enjoy glass art as well as having an educational experience, a stop at Ozzie’s Glass Gallery, 1670 Pleasant St., in South Lee, is in order. The owner, a glass artist “extraordinaire, is right on the premises making colorful and exquisite glass art that is sold there. Mike Ozzie is the extremely personable person behind the operation. “We offer something unique and different,” Visitors can watch an art piece in his gloved hands come to life under blasts of flame as hot as 5,000 degrees. People can often see the making of a piece from start to finish and “no two pieces will ever be the same,” the artist said. Ozzie uses the same type of glass as old Pyrex. It is extremely tough and takes 15 hours to cool after going through the flame of his torch.

“Heat and gravity are the two biggest tools I use,” he said. He can see something in his head and then bring it into reality. T h e re a re o n e - o f - a - k i n d earrings, glass birds, sea horses, flower decorations including sunflowers, and hearts galore. The larger ones can hang in a window and smaller ones can be worn on chains around one’s neck. Everything comes in sizzling colors of every hue. He has more than 500 different colors that he uses in the blown art pieces. Always friendly and wanting to share his craft with visitors, the artist said he prices his work as low as possible. Visiting Ozzie’s is a “good experience for everybody,” Ozzie said. Many times, guests are greeted by two friendly Labs, Poppy and Tulip. The dogs often play with children who visit the shop while their parents look around. He is 100 percent selftaught, never having taken a single art class. Originally, he wanted to become a firefighter. Today, he actually volunteers as a firefighter in Lenox since he wanted to “give back”. Glass blowing started out as a hobby for Ozzie. In 1996, a professional glassblower asked for Ozzie’s help when an apprentice failed to show up. “Since then, I taught myself how to work this medium using a propane and oxygen torch, I work with borosilicate glass and create

each piece using mostly my hands, the flame, and gravity.” “I love what I do and I love that I can share it with you,” he said. Ozzie’s is open six days a week including Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More detailed information on Ozzie’s can be found online on Facebook. Another great place to visit is the Berkshire Botanical Garden, 5 West Stockbridge Road, in Stockbridge. Located on 15 acres, the garden began in 1934. There are several gardens on the property such as the Children’s Discovery Garden, Daylily Walk, Herb Garden, and Pond Garden. The Garden is open every day at 11 a.m. There are guided tours. People who love gardening should definitely check it out. Senior priced tickets are available. Those who love to hike or take a scenic drive up high roads will love the Mount Greylock State Reservation, 30 Rockwell Road, in Lanesboro. Imagine going 3,489 feet to get to the top! There is a picturesque and newly remodeled Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Tower at the top. Vistas from the top of Mt. Greylock are stunning and breathtaking. The Berkshires have tons of art offerings. Among them are the MassMoca (contemporary art) in North Adams, the Clark Art Museum in Williamstown, and the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge. Some senior prices apply. For glorious music under the stars, there is Tanglewood in Lenox, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Throughout the summer, there are numerous artists who come to share their love of music with local and visiting guests. People spread blankets on the green grass around the orchestra’s shed and have simple as well as elegant picnics, some with candelabras and chilly bubbly. While tickets vary in price the grounds are open to the public during non-concert times.

At the National Shrine of Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, one finds peace and serenity on the rolling grass-covered property. The gift shop, alone, is worth a drive there. If you like to give gifts with a spiritual theme, look no farther. The Shrine has everything from statues and prayer cards to rosaries and First Holy Communion gifts. No entrance fee. Remember Edith Wharton, the famed New England writer? One can visit her home, The Mount, in Lenox. The sprawling mansion is most fascinating to tour as are the surrounding grounds. There are guided as well as self-guided tours available. Senior priced tickets are available. Anyone who has an interest in the history of the Shakers will love a visit to the Shaker Village in Hancock. The living history museum reveals a lot of information about the history of the Shakers who once resided there. Known by Shakers as “The City of Peace,” the village was home to the Shakers for almost 200 years.” Senior priced tickets are available.

A w e a l t hy l aw ye r a n d ambassador to Great Britain, Joseph Choate, traveled from New York to Stockbridge to build a sprawling mansion dubbed Naumkeag. The 1884 property is quite picturesque and offers a peek into another way of life during a tour of the mansion. The 44 rooms on rolling grounds were part of the family’s visits while on summer retreats. The Choate’s only daughter, Mabel, took over the mansion after the deaths of her parents and eventually gave it to Trustees in 1958. For those who cannot walk a great deal, it’s important to note that there is a lot of walking at Naumkeag. There are several gardens there such as the Afternoon Garden, Chinese Garden, Everg reen Garden, Peony Garden, Rose Garden, and Summer Garden. About the only challenge to be found with “staycationing” in the Berkshires is to find time to do all there is to do. For more information visit the venues online for hours and ticketing.

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Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

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DONATIONS

Thank You To Our Donors:

The following donations were received between March 1, 2022 and April 30, 2022. Donations received on or after May 1, 2022 will appear in the next issue of Berkshire Senior.

Memorial Donations

In Memory of: William Broderick Katherine Broderick In Memory of: Richard Cowan Berkshire Radio Control Flying Club James Dowling Steven and Margaret Knowlton Susan Lane Mary Miner Lyn Moiseff Patricia & Family Rosier Bruce Shepardson In Memory of: Antoinette Serridge Anthony Bona Walter and Marion Schleicher Jodie and Todd Schleicher In Memory of: Dorothea Steele Elizabeth Lentz

Marilyn Barnes Marion Barry Jennifer Clark David Grady Sylvia Jamros Nancy Kingsley Roseann Kudlate John Mazurkiewicz Alexander and Judith Nardacci Clifford and Lynne Nilan Nancy Prezenik Jean Shade Jeffrey and Kay Waingrow William and Adrienne Wooters

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Meals on Wheels Donations Tamar Schrager

SHINE Donations Cynthia Armstrong Anne Stout

Fuel Assistance Donations Temple Anshe Amunim

General Donations

Jennifer Brennan Cynthia Golin Antonio and Margaret Pagliarulo

Gardening for Seniors by Kara Graziola Gardening can be a fun way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. But, as you age gardening can become more and more ch a l l e n g i n g a n d d i f f i c u l t . Whether you are an avid gardener or a beginner, these tips will make it easier and safer for you to enjoy a rewarding and pleasurable experience.

Start with the right tools and equipment: • Use a stool or bench so you don’t have to bend over. It will also be easier for you to get up and not worry about falling. • Use kneeling pad to prevent pain and discomfort in your knees. • Consider purchasing a tool to help with pulling weeds. There are many on the market that make weeding easier without having to bend over or get down on the ground. • Ergonomic gardening tools will also help with dexterity issues in your hands.

Planning to plant:

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

413-499-1750 234 Wahconah Street Pittsfield MA 01201

MONUMENTS • MARKERS • LETTERING

• Plan! Make sure where you are planting will be easily accessible to you to be able to maintain and water your plants or vegetables. • Plant low maintenance perennials or shrubs. Examples include Coneflower, Daylilies, Black-eyed Susan, Salvia, Hosta and Ferns. • Keep it small. There is no need to have a large garden. Understand your limits and make sure you will be able to

Quality Non-Medical Care in the Comfort of Home

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maintain what you plant. • Use mulch. Mulch helps prevent weeds and helps to retain moisture so your plants won’t dry out. • Container planting or using raised beds can be easier if you have mobility issues. Containers can be placed close by on a deck or patio, so you don’t have to walk far to access. Flowers and vegetables do well in a container.

Stay safe: • Plant or water in the morning or evening when it’s cooler and the sun isn’t as strong. • Stretch before and after. • Take plenty of breaks. • Do not climb a ladder. • Drink water. • Wear sunscreen, a hat and lightweight clothing. • Let someone know when you will be outside and ask them to check on you. • Wear sturdy, well-fitting footwear. • Wear insect repellent. • Don’t use power tools. Sources: Houseofhawthornes.com Ginghamgardens.com GardeningClues.com

Dear Friend of Elder Services: I am writing this letter in mid-May. We are in a better place with the pandemic than we have been in more than two years. However, Berkshire County is now in the red again (high risk). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends we resume wearing masks indoors. I hope that by the time you read this letter, the recent spike in infections, likely a response to school vacations and holiday celebrations, will be an historic event as warmer weather and open windows result in far fewer cases.

Savino

Empire Monuments, Inc. Est. 1931 Complete Service of Monuments & Markers

I am incredibly proud that, despite many challenges since Governor Baker declared a state of emergency in March of 2020, Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc.’s (Elder Services) mission of providing Berkshire County seniors, people with disabilities and caregivers the opportunity to achieve the highest possible quality of life has continued without interruption. Our Information and Referral Specialists continue providing valuable information about Elder Services and other resources in Berkshire County. Nurses and Case Managers perform assessments and coordinate services for our clients. Ombudsman volunteers advocate for and support nursing home residents and Money Management, Options, Caregiver and Elder Mental Health Counselors provide critical counseling sessions. In addition, our kitchen, senior community dining sites and Meals on Wheels drivers have not missed one day of providing hot meals and wellness checks to seniors throughout the County. It should come as no surprise that the number of meals we provide has increased since the beginning of the pandemic. Our kitchen currently provides between 925 and 950 meals Monday through Friday. We are fond of saying that our Meals on Wheels Program is not just providing hot, nutritious meals; it is also daily visits by friendly drivers whose job is as much about ensuring their clients are healthy and safe as it is about delivering meals. The following is an actual e-mail generated by Elder Services Nutrition Dept. on Monday February 7, 2022 in response to a driver finding “Steven”, one of his consumers (clients), after he had fallen. “Meals on Wheels driver reports when he arrived at the home of the consumer, he found consumer on the floor. Consumer stated he had fallen about two days ago and he has not been able to get up or telephone anyone for help. Driver dialed 911 immediately and attended to his needs by making sure he had water and was as comfortable as possible. Driver dialed 911 immediately and is currently waiting for EMS personnel to arrive”. This e-mail provides a vivid illustration of the importance of the wellness checks our drivers provide. Steven spent Saturday, Sunday and a portion of Monday alone on the floor until his driver found him Monday morning. While it is heart wrenching to imagine a senior lying on the floor for more than two days, Steven’s story had a much better outcome than it otherwise might have thanks to his driver’s intervention. Steven’s story is one of many stories of Elder Services’ Meals on Wheels Program and our other programs that support Berkshire seniors, people with disabilities and caregivers at a time when they need that support more than ever.

100 Wahconah St. Pittsfield, MA 01201 (413) 442-4149 Donna Brewer, Owner Steven J Brewer, Director

Let Us Welcome You Home Berkshiretown Apartments Appleton Managed Properties

Providing Quality, Affordable “Smoke Free” Senior Living in Western and Central Massachusetts for over 40 years!

Your support helps ensure that our Berkshire neighbors continue to receive the programs and services they need to help them live the most fulfilling lives possible in the home of their choice. We are grateful for your donation in any amount. Thank you in advance for your gift in support of the many valuable programs offered by Elder Services.

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1. Visit www.esbci.org for an online donation form 2. Send your check in the enclosed envelope 3. Call Elder Services’ Fiscal Department at (413) 499-0524 Thank you again. Please call us any time if you are interested in serving as a volunteer. With COVID-19 beginning to subside, individuals who were reluctant to accept support during the pandemic are starting to reach out for assistance from volunteers. Your assistance will be both rewarding and much appreciated.

Frank Engels, President Board of Directors

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• Rent is Income Based • All Utilities Included • Appliances & Window Coverings • On-Site Laundry • Elevator • Planned Activities • Professional Staff

• • • •

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176 Columbus Ave. Pittsfield, MA 413-443-9125

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Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

The company that provides the trays our clients receive their meals in notified us of a 4.75% price increase to take effect on June 1. This comes on the heels of a 5.6% increase from the same company earlier this year. You are well aware of the significant inflation all of us are experiencing during this unprecedented time. Unfortunately, none of our programs is immune from the impact of significant price increases and increasing costs have the potential to affect our ability to continue providing essential services.

Here are ways to donate:

LETTER FROM BOARD PRESIDENT

877 South Street, Suite 4E, Pittsfield, MA 01201 Telephone (413) 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242 Fax (413) 442-6443 E-Mail esbc@esbci.org

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, June - July 2022

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