Berkshire Senior, March/April 2020

SENIOR BERKSHIRE

Berkshire Senior

Nutrition Program Six million meals served!

Fuel Assistance It’s not too late!

Powerful Tools for Caregivers A class for family caregivers Your Care, Your Home, Your Neighbors

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We provide a full range of Short-term Rehabilitation Services, Palliative Care, Respite Stay, and Traditional Long-Term Care.

Providing individualized 5 STAR care.

Visit our website today at mountcarmelcare.org. or like us on Facebook @ Mount Carmel Care Center.

320 Pittsfield Rd. Lenox MA 01240 Phone: 413-637-2660 Mount Carmel Care Center is a Carmelite Sisters for the Aged & Infirm facility.

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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Twitter: @Berkshire Senior

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LinkedIn: Elder Services of Berkshire County

Berkshire Senior Editorial Board: Deb Aldrich, Bonny DiTomasso, Laura Feakes, Christopher McLaughlin, and John-Arthur Miller 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 1-800-544-5242, 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.

The focus of my last letter was winter and gearing up for the 2020 Census. As I write to you today it’s mid-February and we’re still very much in the midst of winter although, except for the large storm in early December, it’s been a “relatively mild” winter. By the time you see this letter it will be early March. March can pack a wallop as some of the worst storms I remember with the greatest snowfalls occurred in March. Fortunately, as we get further into the month the days get a little longer and a little warmer, signaling that Spring can’t be far off….something to look forward to for sure.

The Census is getting closer too. By the time you see this you should have received your first formal census mailing.

In 2019 Elder Services celebrated our 45th Anniversary serving our Berkshire neighbors. In 2020 we’re celebrating another milestone….. serving our 6 millionth meal in Berkshire County! Our Kitchen, located on Rte. 7 in Lanesborough, first began providing meals in 1994.

Although there are 24 other ASAPs (Aging Services Access Points) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Elder Services has the distinction of being only one of two that operates its own kitchen…the other one is in Northampton, operated by our sister agency, Highland Valley Elder Services. The other 23 organizations contract directly with food service providers for the meals they provide to their clients.

There are a lot of advantages to operating our own kitchen, not the least of which is that we are able to control the quality and variety of the meals we offer. The fact that our employees control every step in the process gives us a real advantage in a county whose size and scope (950 square miles) requires that we’re able to operate effectively and efficiently. We’re very proud of the staff in our kitchen who arrive at work every week day at 5:00 a.m. to begin preparing the 875 meals for that day. Our dedicated transporters and Meals on Wheels drivers ensure those meals find their way to Senior Community Dining Sites throughout Berkshire County and into the hands of seniors living at home.

To celebrate our 6 millionth meal and to acknowledge how important Berkshire Meals on Wheels and our Senior Nutrition Program are to Berkshire County, this issue is devoted to our Nutrition Program: from information about how our nutritionist creates our menus according to strict nutritional guidelines to up to date information about food labels and malnutrition, program eligibility (there is no income eligibility) and an average day in our kitchen, this issue has it all. continued on page 4

Contents Elder Services Update .........3 Berkshire Senior PCTV..................................... 14 Medical Aid-in-Dying ..........4 Nutrition Program ..........6-11 Powerful Fuel Assistance .....................5 Donations ..................... 12-13 Tools for Caregivers .......... 15

Volume 38, Number 2 March 2020 The bi-monthly newspaper for Berkshire County seniors

FREE

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

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

Elder Services Serves its Six Millionth Meal; Census Notices Mailed in March

ELDER SERVICES UPDATE

Mission Statement

3

MEDICINE

Another Chance for Medical Aid-in-Dying in MA For the fifth time in a decade, a medical aid-in-dying bill, known as the End of Life Options Act (H.1926, S.1208), is being actively considered by the Massachusetts Legislature.

All of these bills stalled at the committee level and never moved to the legislature for a vote. A statewide ballot initiative on the topic was defeated 51% to 49 % in 2012, though it passed overwhelmingly in Berkshire County.

Interest in this kind of legislation has gained considerable momentum around the country in recent years.

Similar bills have been enacted in 9 nine other states (OR, WA, CO, MT, VT, CA, HI, NJ, ME). A recent count indicated that similar legislation is being considered in 15 other states.

Unfortunately, the general public is not widely aware of this bill. In fact, it is now with the Joint Committee on Public Health, and has a good chance of being passed by the committee and moved to the legislature for a vote. With public support, The End of Life Options Act has the best chance in 10 years of being enacted.

So, the purpose of the article is to not only raise awareness that this is an important, viable piece of legislation, but also to help people understand its basic provisions.

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

What is the End of Life Options Bill?

4

As noted in the Legislation, “The bill allows qualified, terminally ill, mentally capable adult state residents the voluntary option to request, obtain and take medication to end their life in a peaceful, humane, and dignified manner at the time and place of their choosing.

General Requirements 1. The person must be at least 18 years of age.

2. Neither the physician or the patient must participate -- it is a fully voluntary procedure for everyone involved.

3. The medication must be selfadministered.

4. The patient must be confirmed as a state resident (e.g., registered voter, drivers’ license, own or lease property).

5. The attending physician must confirm the terminal diagnosis

and six months to live prognosis.

6. Written conf ir mation is re q u i re d by a c o n s u l t i n g physician of the diagnosis and the six month prognosis 7. A mental health professional must confirm that the patient is not suffering from psychological or psychiatric, depressive or other impaired condition that wo u l d i m p a c t j u d g e m e n t .

This safeguard is unique to Massachusetts. Note: Those with dementia would not be eligible for medical aid in dying. This safeguard is unique to Massachusetts.

8. A waiting period of a least 15 days is required between the initial request, second request, and the procurement of medication.

9. There must be a written and verbally-witnessed statement (request) to document the medical aid in dying request.

10. The underlying terminal illness will be listed as the cause of death on the death certificate; it will not be classified as suicide or homicide.

11. Participating physicians are not deemed liable.

What is Next/What Can You Do? Representatives from Compassion and Choices and Death with Dignity (two separate national organizations) have been meeting with lawmakers to prepare for a vote by the Public Health Committee and advancement to the floor for a vote.

Hopefully, the bill will soon

Elder Services Serves Six Millionth Meal Though Elder Services provides many other services, the Nutrition Program is a fundamental component of our core mission of supporting people so they can maintain their independence in their own homes. It not only addresses the problem of poor nutrition, which exists among many older individuals, it also provides invaluable social contact as well as opportunities for support and recreational activities for those folks visiting Senior Community Dining Sites.

Perhaps you or someone you know might benefit from our Program. If so, please call (413) 4990524 to inquire about the Program. By the way, you may be interested to know that every day a quality control meal is delivered to our home office to be tested by one of our staff members.

My colleagues and I take turns eating a meal and then complete a survey to evaluate the meal based on presentation, taste and variety.

We believe it’s important that we see, taste and experience the same meals our clients receive.

Just a few reminders about the Census. You will receive notice about the Census in early March and reminders over the next month until you complete it. If you live at another address part of the year (spend the winter in Florida) you should complete the census for your Berkshire address, assuming you spend most of the year here. The preferred method for completing the survey is to go online at www.2020census.gov. If you do not complete the Census online, you will be able to complete it over the phone or a via a paper survey you will receive in early April. If you don’t complete the census by the beginning of May a Census representative will visit your home.

emerge from the Public Health Committee. If you’re so inclined, please write a letter of support to your legislator, or a “Letter to the Editor” or forward this information to family and friends in MA so they may also take action.

For further information, or if you wish to schedule an informational program, please contact: • the author, Van Ellet, at vellet1@ roadrunner.com, or • www.westernmassachusetts deathwithdignity.org We have never before been closer to passage of a medical aid in dying act in Massachusetts. So, stay aware, be informed, and be prepared to act if you believe this option would be of importance to you, your family, or your friends. Thank you.

continued from page 3

An accurate and complete Census is critical as the 2020 Census information will be used to determine the number of Berkshire County representatives in Congress and the Massachusetts legislature. MassHealth and Medicare funding, fuel assistance allocations, public safety and public transportation grants, Section 8 Housing, Head Start and unemployment funding decisions are all made based on Census information. If all of us don’t complete the Census, these programs and others will experience funding decreases.

Elder Services is very concerned about issues of safety and privacy. We’re happy to report the following as regards the 2020 Census: Your privacy is protected! It’s against the law for the Census Bureau to publicly release your responses in any way that could identify you or your household. By law, your responses cannot be used against you and can only be used to produce statistics.

The Census or Census takers will never ask you for any of the following information: a. Political affiliation b. Social Security Information c. Financial information of any kind If a Census representative visits your house he or she will have credentials identifying him/herself as a Census employee and you will be able to access www.2020census.gov to confirm that the person is a legitimate Census representative.

Hoping your experience with the Census is a good one!

Until next time be good, be kind and be careful.

By Laura Feakes, Information & Referral Specialist with Elder Services If you have been having difficulty paying to heat your home this winter, you might be eligible for fuel assistance. There are a few agencies that may still have funds available: B e rk s h i r e C o m m u n i t y Action Council (BCAC, www. bcacinc.org) – Eligibility is based on household size and annual income. This heating season the income limit for a 1 person household is $37,360, for 2 persons $48,855. New applications are accepted until April 30. They help with deliverable fuel such as oil, wood, pellets, propane & kerosene, as well as utilities and heat included-in-rent. Call 413445-4503 (Pittsfield office), 6633014 (North county) or use their automated system 1-866-216-6200.

Salvation Army– administers two emergency fuel assistance

funds. The Good Neighbor Energy Fund helps qualified residents in Massachusetts pay electric, gas, and oil bills when, due to temporary financial difficulty, they can’t meet their energy expenses and they aren’t eligible for state or federal assistance.

Income for either the prior twelve months or the past month (times 12 months for a total annual figure) must fall between 60 – 80% percent of the state’s median income levels (2019-2020: 1 person household $37,361 $49,813; 2 person $48,856 - $65,140) The Pittsfield Salvation Army also administers the Emergency Fuel Fund of the Pittsfield Area Council of Congregations. This fund provides one-time grants of 100 gallons of heating oil to eligible families who have exhausted all other forms of fuel assistance during the heating season. For more information about eligibility criteria and to apply, call Pittsfield Corps 413-

442-0624 (298 West St) or North Adams Corps 663-7987 (393 River St), or toll free 800-262-1320.

Veterans’ Services– has a program known as Ch. 115 that provides cash and medical a s s i s t a n c e t o l ow - i n c o m e Massachusetts wartime veterans and their families who are in need of immediate help, including help with fuel. To determine eligibility call the Veterans Services Officer in your area: 528-1580 (South County), 662-3040 (North County), and 499-9433 (Pittsfield area) or visit www.massvetsadvisor.org or the online Massachusetts Veteran Benefit Calculator, MassVetBen. org.

An important reminder…

Massachusetts law prevents electric and gas companies from shutting off service between November 15th– March 15th if the service is used to heat your house.

There are additional shut-off protections for people in special

ASSISTANCE

It’s not too late to apply for fuel assistance!

situations such as senior (65 yrs. or over) households, low-income families with infants, and people with serious illness who cannot afford to pay their utility bills.

For more information contact your utility company or Elder Services’ Information & Referral Department, 413-499-0524.

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• Transportation Services, housekeeping and laundry

• Medication Reminders

• 24-hour Awake Staff and Emergency Response

• Full service dining

• On-Site Wellness Clinic • Activity programs, fitness center, and much more.

235 Walker Street Lenox, MA 01240

413-637-7000 www.kimballfarms.org

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

• No entrance fee

We’re Perfecting the Art of Superior Care.

5

NUTRITION PROGRAM

Senior

Nutrition Program Overview

Here in Berkshire County, we serve over 200,000 meals annually to more than 2,300 seniors.

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

What We Do:

6

The Senior Nutrition Program is a federal and state funded nutrition program, administered by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, which allows Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. to provide nutritious meals to older adults.

Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. is one of twenty five nutrition projects located throughout the state serving over 9 million nutritionally balanced meals to approximately 75,000 seniors each year. Here in Berkshire County, we serve over 200,000 meals annually to more than 2,300 seniors. Meals are provided at 16 Senior Community Dining sites and three-quarters of total meals served are delivered to frail seniors in their homes. Our Nutrition program has more than 100 active volunteers all over the county contributing over 18,000 hours yearly to the program. Both meals and nutrition education and counseling services provided through the program are essential for improving the nutritional status of our seniors.

The Nutrition Program also

addresses multiple problems faced by seniors – ranging from poor nutrition, food insecurity, and chronic disease to social isolation. Nutrition services and meals are a vital support that enables many seniors to live in the community independently.

Our Services: Nutritious meals are provided

by Elder Services of Berkshire County at sixteen Senior Community Dining sites and through home-delivered meals to older adults (age 60 or older) and individuals with disabilities under age 60 who live in housing facilities occupied primarily by the senior where meals are served. Home-delivered meals are for those individuals unable to leave their home due to illness, disability or frailness as determined after a thorough in-home assessment by Elder Services’ Nutrition Case Worker or a Client Services Coordinator.

Elder Services’ Nutritionist provides individual nutrition counseling for both homedelivered meal clients and meal site participants at their request

or referral. In addition, twice a year our Senior Community Dining site participants receive nutrition educational training on topics that are trending or relevant to seniors.

Menu standards are based on current federal and state guidelines, including the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI), established by the Food and Nutrition Board and the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies.

E a ch m e a l c o n t a i n s at least 1/3 of the current daily Recommended Dietary Allowance of nutrients and considers the special dietary needs of senior participants. Special dietary needs may include lactose-free, cardiac, puree, and diabetic.

In addition, Kosher meals are prepared and served by the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires in partnership with Elder Services.

Elder Services is a member of the Meals on Wheels Association of America and is the official Meals on Wheels provider for the County.

Benefits of the Program: The Nutrition Program at Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. is a critical component of the Executive Office of Elder Affair’s mission

to promote independent living for seniors in the community. By providing at least one meal a day, and in many cases additional meals including supper, holiday and weekend meals, the Program helps to reduce hunger and improve nutrition intake for seniors in Berkshire County. In addition, seniors who participate in the program receive close to half of the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables in a single meal. Diets high in fruits and vegetables have been found to lower the risk of chronic disease and contribute to healthy aging.

Participating in the Program: If you believe you may be eligible for home-delivered meals, or have a relative or friend who may be eligible, contact Elder Services’ Information & Referral Department at 413-4990524. Our Nutrition Case Worker or Client Services Coordinator will make contact to set up an appointment for an in-home assessment.

A re yo u , a re l at ive o r friend able to join others for a noontime meal? We welcome your attendance at any one of the sixteen Senior Community Dining sites listed here in Berkshire Senior. Just call ahead so we can be sure to set a place for you.

NUTRITION PROGRAM SENIOR COMMUNITY DINING CENTERS

sponsored in part by

BERKSHIRE COUNTY

ADDRESS

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.

VARIES – Call ahead

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

11:30 am

People 60 or older and unable to leave their home due to illness, disability or frailty. Or, individuals with disabilities who live at home with their caregivers who are eligible seniors. Or, be the spouse of an eligible senior. Or, be disabled, under the age of 60, living in housing facilities occupied primarily by the elderly.

There is no income eligibility requirement.

LANESBORO 448-2682

TOWN HALL 83 North Main St.

T & TH

11:30 am

DALTON 684-2000

SENIOR CENTER 40 Field St. Ext.

M & TH

12:00 pm

Individuals must meet home delivered meal eligibility requirements, which include but are not limited to, • Having either a physical or mental impairment.

• Inability to attend a Senior Community Dining site and has no formal or informal supports for Noon meal preparation.

Emergency meals are available for people 60 or older who are discharged from the hospital or skilled nursing facility and need immediate temporary assistance.

All potential recipients are assessed in their home for eligibility by an Elder Services case manager.

BECKET 623-8934

TOWN HALL Route 8 P.O. Box 60

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&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

SENIOR CENTER 917 South Main St.

M-T-W-TH-F

11:30 am

PITTSFIELD 442-2200 KOSHER

JEWISH COMM. CTR 16 Colt Road

M-T-TH

12:00 pm

STOCKBRIDGE 298-3222

HEATON COURT 5 Pine St.

T-TH

11:30 am

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.

WED

12:00 pm

SHEFFIELD 229-7037

SENIOR CENTER 25 Cook Road

W&F

12:00 pm

Senior Nutrition Program Eligibility and How to Apply Home Delivered Meals Eligibility

Senior Community Dining Sites Eligibility People age 60 or older and their spouses of any age.

Individuals with disabilities under age 60 who live in senior housing facilities where luncheon meals are served.

There is no income eligibility requirement.

For eligible people, there is a suggested voluntary donation of $2 per meal. All donations are returned to the program to cover the costs for preparation, delivery and service.

For people 59 years or younger, there is a required payment of $7 per meal. Cash only accepted at all locations.

Reservations are required 24 hours in advance. All participants are required to complete a registration form.

HOW TO APPLY: For Home Delivered meals a referral is required. If you, a loved one or friend needs home delivered meals, contact Elder Services at 413-499-0524 to make a referral. An Elder Services case manager will make an appointment to meet you at home for a home delivered meal assessment.

For Senior Community Dining Sites call any one of the dining sites listed on this page and make a reservation. Call before noon to reserve a meal for tomorrow.

DAYS MEALS SERVING SERVED TIME

Eligible seniors 60 years or older are welcome to attend any Senior Community Dining Center. Reservations are requested 24 hours in advance. A suggested donation is $2.00 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 $7.00 per meal.

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

CITY/TOWN PHONE

NUTRITION PROGRAM

Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc.

7

NUTRITION PROGRAM Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020 8

Our Meals are Designed with your Health in Mind The Senior Nutrition Program provided by Elder Services of Berkshire County is part of a statewide and national meals program for the elderly. A major goal of the state’s Senior Nutrition Program is to provide at least one nutritionally balanced meal per day to seniors either at a Senior Community Dining site or through home delivered meals in Berkshire County.

As we grow older the amount of food we need to eat – the number of calories that we need to meet our energy needs – naturally decreases because of changes in our body composition (we lose muscle) and exercise levels. This is a preventable and reversible occurrence, repaired by increasing protein intake and exercise. Our body’s need for vitamins and minerals does not decrease, and in some cases, may increase. That means the food we eat should be high in nutrition.

Nutrition is important for people of all ages. Children need good nutrition to help them to grow properly. For seniors, eating nutritiously is part of staying healthy and active. Sometimes it is a necessary part of managing an illness, such as diabetes or heart disease. And seniors are health conscious! They insist on healthful and attractive meals that are low in fat and sodium. And that’s exactly what Elder Services’ Senior Nutrition Program offers.

The Older Americans Act requires that each meal we serve strives to contain 1/3 of the current Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) for the population aged 51 and older as established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Science, National Research Council. The recommended levels of nutrients set by experts in the field of nutrition will meet the needs of approximately

98% of healthy individuals.

Menus are designed by a team consisting of Elder Services’ Kitchen Supervisor Lisa Allen, Nutritionist Bruce Homstead and Nutrition Manager Beth Mathis-Torrey. Opinions on food preparation from our chefs and the likes and dislikes of participants are a major priority for the menu planning team. Menu planning starts with what is available, what meets the required nutritional values and what offers variety to our consumers. Input from consumers at Senior Community Dining sites and recipients of home delivered meals is important and is a critical part of helping the team decide what is served. Usually menus are designed for one to two month periods, approximately two months in advance of when they will be served.

Eating healthy requires variety and moderation. The

meats” must be served, gravies are made with a low sodium base and lower fat entrees like chicken and fish have to be included each week. We are required to serve good food sources of vitamin A three times a week and provide a daily dose of vitamin C. A high fiber vegetable is a must at least once a week and high fiber bread at least three times a week. Dessert? We see a lot of fruit desserts on our menus to meet the vitamin requirements but are able to sprinkle in some other good sources of calcium like pudding or perhaps a baked dessert treat now and then. Some consumers are unable to eat the higher sugar desserts so we offer a substitute containing no added sugar, fruit or canned fruit in its own juice.

Each month, our menu is delivered to our consumers with their meal. It is also available at Councils on Aging and on our website www.esbc@esbci.org.

Daily Menu Pattern for the Senior Nutrition Program: Food Categories

Amount per meal

Meat/Meat alternate (entrée) Vegetable/Fruit Bread Butter/Margarine Dessert 1% Milk

3 ounces cooked 2 – ½ cup servings 1 slice 1 teaspoon ½ cup 1 cup

nutritionist’s training allows him to help the team plan menus and choose items that are low in fat and sodium while meeting all of the DRI and Massachusetts Senior Nutrition Standards regarding each food category that makes up the menu pattern.

There are a few things behind our meal planning which may interest you. Twice a week “whole

Look closely and you’ll see the caloric value of the meal along with a breakdown of sodium in each item. Our chefs do not add salt during the cooking process.

(Not a salt shaker to be found in our kitchen!) Entrees that have more than 500mg of sodium will be marked with an asterisk (*). Meals that contain 1,500mg or more of sodium are noted

on the menu. Meals generally contain up to 800 calories. All this information allows the consumer to make their own choice of what to eat from the day’s meal depending on their dietary restrictions. It also helps in planning out your day’s food intake. And, in case you aren’t sure, our nutritionist is available to counsel consumers who may need help identifying areas of concern.

Once our menu has gone through the design, analyzation and input process it is forwarded to the Executive Office of Elder Affairs for final review and approval. You can see that a lot of thought and expertise is put into the creation of a menu that meets the nutritional needs of our senior community. So now, enjoy our meals and rest assured you’re receiving one-third of your daily nutritional requirements either delivered to your home by a Meals on Wheels Driver or at one of the Senior Community Dining sites throughout the county (see listing). Our goal is to keep Berkshire County seniors nutritionally healthy, happy and independent.

Keep these good sources of what your body needs handy. . .

Protein: eggs, milk, cheese, fish, solid meats (not processed!), nuts, seeds, soy, legumes (beans) Good Carbohydrates: grains, fruits, ve getables (include carrots, squash, pumpkin, beets) Fruits: apples, pears, peaches, grapes (fruits typically grown in this region are best) Tropical fruits could spike your blood sugar. Juices are not beneficial!

Vegetables: choose a variety— deep colored are best raw/ steamed/cooked Fiber: tree fruits, berries, beets, carrots, grains, nuts, and seeds

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has finalized a new Nutrition Facts label for packaged foods that will make it easier for you to make informed food choices that support a healthy diet. The updated label has a fresh new design and reflects current scientific information, including the link between diet and chronic diseases.

1. Servings The number of “servings per container” and the “Serving Size” declaration have increased and are now in larger and/or bolder type.

Serving sizes have been updated to reflect what people actually eat and drink today. For example, the serving size for ice cream was previously 1/2 cup and now is 2/3 cup.

There are also new requirements for certain size packages, such as those that are between one and two servings or are larger than a single serving but could be consumed in one or multiple sittings.

2. Calories “Calories” is now larger and bolder.

3. Fats “Calories from Fat” has been removed because research shows the type of fat consumed is more important than the amount.

4. Added Sugars

New Label

Nutrition Facts Serving Size 2/3 cup (55g)

Nutrition2 Facts

Servings Per Container About 8

1 8 servings per container Serving size

2/3 cup (55g)

sugars from concentrated fruit or vegetable juices. Scientific data shows that it is difficult to meet nutrient needs while staying within calorie limits if you consume more than 10 percent of your total daily calories from added sugar.

Amount Per Serving

Calories from Fat 72

Calories 230

2

12 % 5%

65g 20g 300mg 2,400mg 300g 25g

Total Fat 8g

80g 25g 300mg 2,400mg 375g 30g

10%

Saturated Fat 1g

5%

Cholesterol 0mg Sodium 160mg

0%

Trans Fat 0g

Total Carbohydrate 37g Dietary Fiber 4g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Calories: 2,000 2,500 Less than Less than Less than Less than

3

7% 12 % 16 %

10% 8% 20% 45%

Vitamin A Vitamin C Calcium Iron

Total Fat Sat Fat Cholesterol Sodium Total Carbohydrate Dietary Fiber

% Daily Value*

0%

Total Carbohydrate 37g Dietary Fiber 4g Sugars 12g Protein 3g

230

Calories

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 8g Saturated Fat 1g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 0mg Sodium 160mg

Amount per serving

7% 13% 14%

Total Sugars 12g

4

Includes 10g Added Sugars Protein 3g

5

Vitamin D 2mcg

10%

Iron 8mg

45%

Calcium 200mg

Potassium 235mg

6

20%

15% 6%

* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Transitioning to the New Label Manufacturers still have time to begin using the new and improved Nutrition Facts label, so you will see both label versions for a while. However, the new label is already starting to appear on products nationwide.

For more information about the new Nutrition Facts label, visit: www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/LabelingNutrition/ucm385663.htm

5. Nutrients The lists of nutrients that are required or permitted on the label have been updated. Vitamin D and potassium are now required on the label because Americans do not always get the recommended amounts. Vitamins A and C are no longer required since deficiencies of these vitamins are rare today.

The actual amount (in milligrams or micrograms) in addition to the %DV must be listed for vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium.

The daily values for nutrients have also been updated based on newer scientific evidence. The daily values are reference amounts of nutrients to consume or not to exceed and are used to calculate the %DV.

6. Footnote The footnote at the bottom of the label has changed to better explain the meaning of %DV. The %DV helps you understand the nutrition information in the context of a total daily diet.

January 2018

Let us Help Protect You or Your Loved Ones from Becoming Malnourished (1) Know the causes

(2) Know the signs

(3) Know how to get help

Changes in appetite Little interest in cooking Living alone Medication side-effects Limited mobility Trouble chewing and swallowing Loneliness and/or depression Chronic medical conditions

Frequently ill Slow healing wounds Unintentional weight loss Muscle weakness/falls Lack of energy Out-of-date food Not enough nutritious food at home

Check the pantry and fridge Encourage healthy snacking Buy and prepare foods Request a nutrition assessment Make mealtime social Ask questions sensitively Get nutrition assistance, e.g. Meals on Wheels, grocery shopping, food banks, farmer’s markets, SNAP, and more

For more information on nutrition resources in Berkshire County visit: www.esbc@esbci.org or call Elder Services at 1-413-499-0524 Information provided by Malnutrition Prevention in the Elderly Commission www.Mass.gov

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

“Added Sugars” in grams and as a percent Daily Value (%DV) is now required on the label. Added sugars includes sugars that are either added during the processing of foods, or are packaged as such (e.g., a bag of table sugar), and also includes sugars from syrups and honey, and

Current Label

NUTRITION PROGRAM

The New and Improved Nutrition Facts Label – Key Changes

9

NUTRITION PROGRAM

850 Meals a Day... How do we do it?

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

By Lisa Allen, Kitchen Supervisor

10

A “typical” day in our kitchen goes something like this. Three staff members arrive at our Lanesboro kitchen at 5 a.m.

Kitchen supervisor, Lisa, Head Chef, Steve and Second Cook, George.

Steve turns on the equipment and removes the day’s entrée from the freezers. Much of the meal has been prepped the previous day. Steve reviews the home delivered meal counts and senior community dining site meal counts collected the day before by Susan, our Nutrition Clerical Aide.

Shortly after arriving at 5 a.m.

Lisa accesses the computer to verify the numbers for home delivered meals and checks the answering machine for messages from the dining sites and our Pittsfield Nutrition Office. It’s quite possible that since staff departed the kitchen at 1 p.m. the previous day, the numbers may have changed slightly. She also obtains a preliminary number for the next day, as prep work for tomorrow begins today.

George begins to assemble his daily bag supper meals for North, South and Central County. He then gets the desserts ready for all the dining sites. He labels

them so our Transporters can find their designated desserts.

Lisa gets the bread for the dining sites ready for the Transporters and also labels them.

George then begins preparing the next day’s dessert. It is often a fruit cup so he opens several cases, drains and rinses the fruit.

He then fills cups with the fruit based on numbers provided by Lisa.

George then prepares his bag suppers for the next day, which will then be sealed by the sealing machine when it is set up later in the morning.

Meanwhile, deliveries are arriving and George and Lisa pause to check them in and

stock the items. Lisa and George usually do this as a team.

Lisa then prepares the dish room for the Dishwasher as there already are several pots and pans, etc. waiting for his arrival.

Lisa f inishes any brown bag meals that have not been completed the day before so that when the Prep Cook arrives, he can begin working on the next day’s bags.

At 7 a.m., our Prep Cook Aaron arrives. He immediately adjusts the brown bag meals that he prepared the day before for North, South and Central, as the numbers have most likely changed. He will then begin assembling the bags for the next day. He usually starts with the South County and ends with Central. He does about 730 bags each day. Any bags left over will be used to accompany frozen meals. The kitchen maintains an inventory of frozen bags for clients who receive frozen meals.

At 8 a.m. the Prep Person arrives and bags all of the bread that Aaron needs to assemble the brown bags.

Also at 8 a.m., our loyal Volunteers begin to arrive. Steve makes a prep list daily of all the tasks that need to be completed.

This may include peeling potatoes (usually 100 lbs.) and/or onions (50 lbs.) and/or opening cans

of vegetables, fruit or other ingredients needed in a recipe.

Kitchen staff then count out the number of black plastic trays required for the day. They then set up the sealing machine and plug it in to warm it up. The sealing machine is in essence a miniature assembly line, the final process of which is sealing each black plastic tray in cellophane film.

By 8:30, Steve and George start to pack the hot bulk meals for the senior community dining sites. Generally 3-4 pans of food are placed in each insulated catering box in preparation for the transporters.

At this time, at least one Transpor ter ar rives.

The Transporters deliver home delivered meals in their vans to our packing sites located at Crossway Village in Lee and the Spitzer Center in North Adams where the food is distributed to Meals on Wheels Drivers for delivery in South and North County. The Central Meals on Wheels Drivers leave from our Lanesboro kitchen. The Transporter reviews the paper work the office has provided and begins to pack his van with all the cold items and supplies needed that day.

Nutrition Clerical Aide Susan arrives at 8:30 a.m. She reviews any information Lisa may have

NUTRITION PROGRAM

Comprehensive Audiology Services: • Diagnostic Hearing and Balance Evaluations • Hearing aid dispensing and repairs from all major manufacturers • Tinnitus evaluations and treatment (Certified provider of Levo Tinnitus Therapy).

• Custom Hearing Protection and Musician Filters.

• Competitive Pricing with various payment options available.

Comprehensive Physical Therapy Services: • The first true vestibular (balance) center in the Berkshires.

• Specializing in the diagnosis & treatment of Vertigo (dizziness).

• Balance Therapy & Fall Prevention T PHYSICAL T HERA BES PIST Specialists.

• Orthopedic Physical Therapy • Certified in “Hips for Life” There are less than 150 Physical Therapists Nationwide with Level III certification in Balance Retraining; Dr. Marcotte is one of them.

Pain Management & Laser Therapy • Custom Orthotics from Footmaxx • CBD products from Miracles of Health and MuscleMX.

DR. TREVOR MARCOTTE DR. ANDREW PUTTICK

510 North Street, Suite 9 Pittsfield, MA 01201 413-443-4800 www.greylockaudiology.com FYZICAL.com/Pittsfield

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

left for her. She checks the fax machine and her e-mail for any changes. She writes the menu on the white board along with daily messages for the Drivers.

At 8:45, Susan begins to print the kitchen reports and Meals on Wheels route sheets. She provides a set of reports to the kitchen and to the Transporters.

At 8:50, the hot food is taken out of the pots and ovens and put on the line for service. A Volunteer or the Dish Room Aide is responsible for helping keep the line stocked during lunch.

The kitchen staff line up at 9 with 5-6 people on the production line. Staff members fill the compartments of each tray with various food items.

As they move down the line, a staff member loads the meals in the meal packing machine and, as the meals exit the machine other staff members count out the correct number of meals for the Transporters and Meals on Wheels Drivers. It is the Transporter and Driver’s responsibility to double check and make sure they have the correct number of meals.

At 9:30 the kitchen begins to distribute meals to Meals on Wheels Drivers. Each Driver reviews the paperwork provided

by Susan to make sure their clients will eat what is being served. They then gather their brown bags (milk, bread, dessert) and their hot food. Many people do not want milk so the Drivers return the milk to the cooler and replace it with a juice or lactaid.

The times when the Drivers arrive are staggered, which helps to make the process more efficient.

The Kitchen is usually done serving the meal at 10:30 unless it is a “challenging” meal. Some meals take longer than others to serve depending on what’s included in that meal.

After all the day’s meals have left the kitchen, the line is cleaned up, the pots are cleaned and surfaces washed and sterilized so the staff can continue with meal prep for the next day. Meat may need to be cooked. Fresh vegetables are prepped, brown bags are still being assembled.

Milk gets rotated, frozen meals restocked in the reach in freezer.

Food is rotated in the walk in coolers. Food prepped ahead is moved into the first cooler.

At 12:30, everyone finishes what they’re working on and begin the process of cleaning up the entire kitchen. Trash is taken out and the floors are swept and mopped.

A t y p i c a l d ay d o e s n ’ t necessarily flow this easily.

There are a lot of variables that affect what is happening at any given time. While all that is described above is happening, kitchen staff and drivers may call out and the phone continues to ring with people calling in changes. Numbers can change right up until the Meals on Wheels Driver or Transporter leaves the kitchen. Sometimes kitchen staff end up running out into the parking lot to make a Driver aware of a cancellation.

If the Dish Room Aide is absent then usually Lisa ends up working in the dish room for the day and staff will help put things away. When Susan is absent, Lisa usually prints the reports and route sheets in addition to preparing meals.

As you can see, producing, delivering and serving 850 meals each week day requires great skill, coordination and commitment. We are proud of and grateful to our dedicated kitchen staff, Nutrition De par tment staf f, Drivers, Transporters, volunteers and Meal Site staff for everything they do to provide hot, nutritious m e a l s t o t h e i r B e rk s h i re neighbors.

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DONATIONS

Thank You To Our Donors: The following donations were received during the period of December 1, 2019 to January 31, 2020. Donations received on or after February 1, 2020 will appear in the next publication of Berkshire Senior.

Mr. Philip Rennie Sacred Heart Parish Ancestry Memorials Mr. Harold Sherman Mr. Bruce Barry Dr. & Mrs. Bruce Shickmanter Ms. Paulette Batey Mr. Theodore Sideropoulos Ms. Susan Coles Mr. Leonard Sigal Mr. James Nicoll Cooper Mr. Lawrence Strauss Mr.& Mrs. Paul J. Delasco Mr. David Talbert Mr. Robert Edwards Ms. Estelle Tebbetts Ms. Deborah Fields The Velmans Foundation, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Vincent Filpi Ms. Judith Trask Greylock Employee Community Mr. Peter Traub Giveback Program Ms. Francine Weinberg Mr. & Mrs. Peter Hofman Ms. Judith Kittredge Elder Independence Knights of Columbus Berkshire Hills Donations Council #314 Ms. Donna M Abbott Ms. Vera Lecocq Mr. Dana B. Anderson Ms. Kaitlyn Martyny Ms. Patti Annechiarico Ms. June Ann Mason Mr. David Ariazi Mr. Mike McLaughlin Mr. & Mrs. James J. Armstrong Neenah Technical Materials Mr. Mike Armstrong Mr. Tony Pagliarulo Mr. Walter Asdikian Mr. & Mrs. Bo Peabody Mr. & Dr. Frank Battista Mr. & Mrs. Donald Percy Mr. Richard l Bauer, Sr. Ms. Carol Perkins Mrs. Barbara D. Bennett

General Donations

Mr. Angelo P. Berasi Ms. Irene Bernstein Mr. & Mrs. Jay Bikofsky Ms. Marjorie Bissaillon Ms. Maggie Bittman Mr. & Mrs. Walter Blair Ms. Nancy Bonvillain Mr. & Mrs. Edward Bourdon Mr. & Mrs. John Boyle Ms. Sharon Bramson Mr. Lawrence A. Bravo Mr. & Mrs. Austin Brazee Ms. Jeanne M. Bresnehan Mr. & Mrs. Richard Brooks Ms. Kathleen M. Burke Mr. & Mrs. John Burton Ms. Anita Busch Mr. Peter Calderella Ms. Justyna M. Carlson Carlson Propane Ms. Cheryl Ann Chalmers Dr. & Dr. Alan S. Chartock Mr. & Mrs. Robert Clark, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Jeff Cook Ms. Helen R. Cooper

Comprehensive Life Care Planning

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

A team of professionals - Attorneys, Care Coordinator, Public and VA Benefit Coordinators - to create individualized Estate, Elder Law and Care Planning.

12

• ELDER LAW • ESTATE & TAX PLANNING • MEDICAID ELIGIBILITY • COMMUNITY BENEFITS

• VETERANS BENEFITS • ESTATE ADMINISTRATION • PROBATE LAW • LIFE CARE PLANNING

ALMGREN LAW Attorney & Counselors at Law Paula K. Almgren, Esq. Kristina Z. Kisiel, Esq.

ONE WEST STREET, LENOX, MA 01240, (413) 637-5075 www.almgrenlaw.com

Ms. Lindsay Crampton Mr. & Mrs. James Culliton, Sr. Ms. Bea DaSilva Mrs. Jean Davis Mr. & Mrs. Dayton Delorme Ms. Marilyn DeRosa Mr. & Mrs. Remo DiTomasso Mr. James E. Donovan, Jr. Mrs. Marjorie Driscoll Ms. Judi Drozd Mr. & Mrs. Gilbert Duval Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Eccher Mr. & Mrs. James Edelman Ms. Cia Elkin Elm Street Luncheonette Ms. M Patricia Fasce Ms. Barbara Favreau Ms. Bernice B. Filkins Ms. Diana Fontana Ms. Lois Forsley Ms. Antonette Furcinite Mr. James F. Furciniti Mr. Joe Furgal, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Garfield P. Galant Ms. Sheila B. Gibeau

Ms. Eleanor A. Gifford Mr. Norman Gittleman Mr. & Mrs. Alfred R. Goggia Mr. David B. Grady Ms. Rosemary M. Graves Mr. Larry Gedd Ms. Estella Graziola Ms. Lucy Green Ms. Jenny Greenfeld Mr. Bernard Gregory Mr. & Mrs. Jesse Hakes Ms. Joan Haskins Mr. & Mrs. Lee Hauge Mr. William Herrick Ms. Carole Holliday Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Hugabone International Laborers Union Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Jones Ms. Rhoda Kaminftein Ms. Ellen Kenwood Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Klein Ms. Ellen F. Krupka Mr. Richard Kurek Ms. Roberta Lamb Lamme and Linscott, Attorneys at Law

Ms. Jo Ann Lancaster Ms. Diane LaValle Ms. Fern E Lavelle Mr. Paul Lennon Mr. & Mrs. Richard Luczynski Mr. & Mrs. Bill Lundergan Mr. & Mrs. Charles Magnesio Mr. Michael Margolis Mr. Lawrence S Martz Mr. John J Mazurkiewicz Mr. Joseph McCusker Mr. & Mrs. James J. McKenna Ms. Debra Megas Mr. Harry Morey Mr. & Mrs. Robert Mottershead Mr. George Munson Mr. Richard Nichols Mr. & Mrs. Clifford J. Nilan Mrs. Robert O’Clair Mr. & Mrs. Edward Olszewski Mr. Kenneth Parker Ms. Diane Philippe-Gingras Ms. Janet K Poliak Mr. Raymond A Porter Ms. Asta S. Potter

Mr. David L. Vacheron Ms. Jo Valens Mr. & Mrs. Richard Vigeant Mr. & Mrs. William Walley Ms. Paula Wells Dr. & Mrs. James P. Whitman Ms. Judith A. Williams Mr. & Mrs. Howard Wineberg Mr Louis R. Yarter Mr. Richard Young Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Zarnoch Ms. Kathryn Zoito

Meals on Wheels Donations Ms. Priscilla Boyce Mr. Paul Bruce Mr. James DeGiacomo Ms. Anna Mickiewicz Mr. & Mrs. Walter Schleicher Dr. Eugene Talbot

SHINE Donations Mr. & Mrs. Allen Arndt Ms. Jane Reusche

In Honor of Donations In Honor of: Mr. & Mrs. John & Janet Egelhofer Ms. Nancy Egelhofer In Honor of: Mr. Christopher McLaughlin Ms. Christine Thomson In Honor of: Ms. Maureen Tuggey Ms. Christine Thomson

In Honor of: Mr. Nicholas Kirchner Ms. Christine Thomson In Honor of: Ms. Phyllis DeMartino Ms. Michele Gilligan

In Memory of Donations In Memory of: Mr. John P. Burratto Mr. & Mrs. Robert Bartini Mr. & Mrs. John Difilippo Mr. & Mrs. Francis D. Malnati In Memory of: Mr. Donald Conway Ms. Sharon Shogry In Memory of: Mrs. Philomena Barbuto Dingas Mr. Michael Dingas In Memory of: Wanda & C Fred Dubis Ms. Elaine Dubis Kittler In Memory of: Mr. Thomas Horn Adams Outdoorsman For Youth, INC. Ashley Swift & Sons, Inc. Mr. George Bushika Ms. Lisa Fournier Mr. & Mrs. Robert Krzanik, Jr. MountainOne Insurance Mr. Lance W Tatro In Memory of: Mrs. Marcaline E Mathis Mr. & Mrs. John W. Philpott

Ms. Ronnie Lacey Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Serafin Ms. Joann Skrocki In Memory of: Ms. Monica Obagski Mrs. Florence Romaniak In Memory of: Lavona Pero & Rosemary Ryan Mr.& Mrs. Ronald Pero In Memory of : Mr. & Mrs. Jack and Helen Pomeroy Ms. Margaret A. Pomeroy

Savino

Empire Monuments, Inc.

DONATIONS

Mr. & Mrs. Richard A Powers Ms. Elizabeth Prevey Mr. & Mrs. Daniel J. Pupo Ms. Carol Purcell Mrs. Barbara G. Reddington Ms. Judith Reichert Dr. Robin J. Renders Mr. & Mrs. Ralph A. Robinson, Jr. Ms. Nancy A. Rodovick Mr. & Mrs. Joseph J. Rogge Ms. Barbara Rubin Ms. Kim Ruebesam Ms. Priscilla H Rueger Mr. Rudolph Schutz Mr. & Mrs. Thomas L. Sedgwick Mr. & Mrs. Alex Seseske Mr. James Shippee Ms. Carole Siegel Ms. E. Bonnie Silvers Mr. & Mrs. John Slade Mr. & Mrs. David Slosek Mr. & Mrs. Leonard F. Sniezek Mr. Frederick A. Solari Mrs. Judith St. Jacques Mr. & Mrs. Seth Stockwell Ms. Lorna M Strassler Mr. & Mrs. Shaun Sutliff Mr. & Mrs. George Sweet Ms. Judith Ann Thompson Mr. & Mrs. Brian Tomkowicz Mr. & Mrs. James Toomey Ms. Daltry Turner Ms. Barbara Unsworth

Est. 1931 Complete Service of Monuments & Markers

In Memory of: Mr. Andrew Scelsi Mr. & Mrs. Paul Nixon In Memory of: Mrs. Margaret Ann Wheeler Mr. & Mrs. Thomas H. Bosworth Ms. Margaret Brace Allen Ms. Catherine Conklin Mr. & Mrs. Edward Corbett Mr. & Mrs. Merton Charles Hathaway, Jr. Ms. Alexandra Huber Ms. Carol M. Kirby Ms. Generosa A. Murray Ms. Carole Sample Ms. Barbara J. Sibley Mr. & Mrs. Michael Vaber

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

In Memory of: Mrs. Helen Milukas Mr. Robert Baranoff

Smile-Relax-Enjoy Life Support the Best Library in Western Massachusetts Come Enjoy weekly Adult Programs brought to you by the Friends of the Athenaeum

Children, Teens and Young Adult Activities Including art programs, book clubs, lego club, tiny tots, story time, make and take, read with me, as well as family programs

Attend our Cinema of Law Series

Come Check Out Our Book Sale

Let us help create a celebration of life that is as unique as you are! www.dwyerfuneral.com

776 North St., Pittsfield, MA 413-442-5094 Now Two New Locations 525 Main St., Dalton, MA • 220 East St., Pittsfield, MA

March 12th 4-8pm /Members only Join at the door $10/yr or $25/ Family Friday March 13th 10am-4pm Saturday March 14th 10am-4pm Free admission both days s 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield MA 01201 • pittsfieldlibrary.org

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

Introduced by local attorneys March 5 - One Woman, One Vote March 10 - The Suffragette March 24 - Beyond Standing Rock March 31 - They Shall Not Grow Old Free refreshments available

13

SENIOR NEWS

413-499-1750 234 Wahconah Street Pittsfield MA 01201 MONUMENTS • MARKERS • LETTERING

WANTED: Individuals Interested in Joining our Editorial Board Do you look forward to reading Berkshire Senior each month?

Do you have a passion for issues that are important to seniors?

Are you creative? If you’d like to have input into the format and content of Berkshire Senior we’d love to have you serve on our Editorial Board! We meet once every other month for about 90 minutes in our administrative offices in Pittsfield. If you’re interested please contact Christopher McLaughlin, Executive Director at (413) 499-0524 or cmclaughlin@esbci.org.

We all need to have a sense of belonging in a community where we feel safe, secure and valued. At the Friends Club, we have a deep passion for building relationships to know the person beneath the dementia.

HomeInstead.com/Berkshires 66 Wendell Avenue, Pittsfield, MA Schedule a visit with us today!

413.442.0907 Each Home Instead Senior Care Franchise is independently owned and operated.

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

When every moment matters, trust HospiceCare in The Berkshires.

We are proud to offer: • Compassionate, highly trained staff certified in hospice and palliative care • Comprehensive team available to provide a wide range of services including: • Full range of services focused on managing pain and improving quality of life Call today to see how hospice can help your family.

877 South Street, Suite 1W • Pittsfield, MA 413-443-2994 • www.hcib.org

The difference is in our care 14

Currently airing on PCTV Channel 1301 Access Pittsfield Broadcast schedule: PCTV channel 1301 Mondays at 5 p.m., Tuesdays at 3 p.m., Thursdays at 11 a.m. & 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.

Powerful Tools for Caregivers

Berkshiretown Apartments Appleton Managed Properties

CAREGIVING

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

A class for family caregivers

Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an educational program designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a relative or friend. You will benefit from this class whether you are helping a parent, spouse, friend, someone who lives at home, in a nursing home, or across the country.

This class series meets once a week for six weeks.

Class size is limited, and registration is required.

Dates:

Fridays April 3, 2020 – May 8, 2020

Times:

10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Location:

Fairview Hospital, Conference Room 39 Lewis Avenue Great Barrington, MA 01230

To register: Call 413-499-0524 Vicky Linscott, Caregiver Coordinator or Joe Choon, Caregiver Coordinator The Class and Course Materials are Free of Charge

The best home to be in is your own. Home Instead offers personalized in-home services.

PERSONAL CARE | MEMORY CARE MEALS | HOUSEHOLD DUTIES

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

• • • •

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Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

Cost:

Our Apartments ALWAYS Include

15

4 0 M A P L E W O O D AV E N U E • P I T T S F I E LD, M A 0 1 2 0 1

Friends helping friends since 1915

Call Us: 413-445-5988

L if e is b e a u tif ul, e ver -c ha ngi ng, a nd eve r -e nd i ng. W e k n ow wh e n life is com in g & rarely w he n it’s g oin g to e nd . M or e often tha n not, i t e nd s un expectedly. How do we deal with th e s e c h a n g e s ? H o w d o w e honour our l ove d one s? H ow do we get t h rou gh th is p rocess?

The a nswe r to a l l these q uesti ons & more is with frien ds.

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Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, March-April 2020

W e a t D e v a nny Cond r on a r e d e d i c a ted to b e i ng th e frien d you n eed in t im es lik e th e se . W hethe r i t’s pr epa r i ng for the i n evitable in advan ce, or de a ling wi th the unex pe c ted , we a r e he r e to h elp you th rou gh .

Be c a u s e e v e r y o n e k now s the b e st w a y to g e t b y , i s w i th a litt le h elp from you r frien ds.

16

John W. Bresnahan

Caroline R. Sullivan-Mulherin

Korey A. Mulherin

“a proud affiliate of carriage services”