Berkshire Senior February - March 2024

VALENTINE’S DAY

Celebrating Diana & Ray Kirby VOLUNTEER PROFILE

Bob St. Peter Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day!

Senior “Circuit Breaker” Tax Credit

“I’m so glad I called HospiceCare in The Berkshires when I did.”

“THEY HELPED US MAKE EVERY MOMENT MATTER.”

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

“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.”

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Offering compassion to our community: • Emotional and spiritual support

• Integrative therapies

• Meaningful end-of-life care

• Symptom management

• Home health aides

• 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 01201

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.

Elder Services Celebrates 50th Anniversary

By Christopher McLaughlin, Executive Director of Elder Services

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Twitter: @Berkshire Senior

Instagram: berkshiresenior

LinkedIn: Elder Services of Berkshire County

Berkshire Senior Editorial Board: Deb Aldrich, Laura Feakes, Christopher McLaughlin, 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.

continued on page 5

Contents Valentine’s Day: Celebrating Diana & Ray Kirby ..... 4

Volunteer Placements ................................................11

Volunteer Profile - Bob St. Peter ................................. 6

Senior Community Dining Sites ...............................12

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day! ........................ 8

Technology Corner......................................................14

Senior “Circuit Breaker” Tax Credit............................. 9 COVER PHOTO: Donations .....................................................................10

Micki McMurray ESBCI Contracts Supervisor at Best of the Berkshires Celebration Event.

Volume 43, Number 1 February 2024 The bi-monthly newspaper for Berkshire County seniors

FREE

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

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.

Elder Services of Berkshire County traces its history to June of 1974 when Frederick “Fred” Whitham established Berkshire Homecare Corporation as a private, non-profit home care organization. Berkshire Homecare had three employees in a small office on Wendell Avenue. The following year, Berkshire Homecare was designated the area agency on aging (AAA) for Berkshire County in accordance with the Older Americans Act of 1965.

In July of 1993, Berkshire Homecare ceased to exist when the Agency was renamed Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. (Elder Services). In 1994, we established a commercial kitchen on Rte. 7 in Lanesborough, one of only three kitchens operated by AAAs like Elder Services throughout the Commonwealth. Since its inception, our Meals on Wheels Program has served more than 6.8 million meals to seniors in Berkshire County!

In 1997, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) designated Elder Services the Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) responsible for providing programs and services in the 32 cities and towns in Berkshire County.

Today, Elder Services continues as Berkshire County’s AAA and ASAP. We are the only organization authorized by EOEA to provide federal and state programs and services to seniors and their caregivers in Berkshire County. We are a $22 million organization providing service to an unprecedented number of clients supported by 140 staff members and 240 active volunteers.

Berkshire County in 2024 is a very different place than it was in 1974 and the profile of Berkshire County residents has changed. Berkshire County had a population of nearly 150,000 in 1974 with an economy dominated by large employers like GE, Sprague Electric and Sheaffer Eaton; now it has less than 130,000 people and most of the large employers are long gone. In 2024 Berkshire County has the distinction of being the second “oldest” (31.5% of Berkshire County’s population is comprised of seniors age 60+) and one of the poorest counties in the Commonwealth.

While some things changed over time, what has not is the large and growing population of seniors living in the County who rely on Elder Services to ensure they are able to continue living independently in whatever place they call home.

We are very proud of what we accomplished during the past 50 years

ELDER SERVICES UPDATE

Mission Statement

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VALENTINE’S DAY

VALENTINE’S DAY

Celebrating Diana & Ray Kirby

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

by Susan Guerrero

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Diana and Ray Kirby, Lenox residents, know a thing or two about what it takes to sustain a long relationship. They will celebrate their 39th wedding anniversary in June.

Remaining in a long-term marriage takes tolerance, Diana said, as well as the ability to “overlook things.” Pertaining to spouses, “You have to let them be the persons they are,” she commented. In addition, refrain from trying to change a spouse because it simply does not work.

Ray added his opinion of how to make a marriage last. “You’ve got to be able to take the good with the bad,” he said. “You have to have patience and respect each other.”

“We don’t have a lot in common,” Diana laughed. Each of them has their own interests and routines. Ray likes to hike, Diana does not. He spends many mornings sipping coffee at a table with other retired friends in a supermarket food court area. It’s a kind of coffee club. She likes to stretch mornings out at home, reads a lot, and enjoys not having to get up early. She said she’s definitely not a morning person.

Having their own interests and independence help keep the marriage strong. However, Diana pointed out that all major decisions, including financial, are made together. “We like having our own interests,” Diana said, “and our independence but we still work as a team.”

They met in 1980 at a former Friendly’s restaurant in Lenox.

She was a waitress there and Ray was a “regular” (customer.) They were very good friends for quite a while. “She was very friendly,” he recalled. Diana was in her early 20s then and Ray was six years older. She sat with him on some of her breaks, Ray recalled. “We

hit it off real good,” he said, with a smile. Ray is a Lenox native and Diana is originally a Pittsfield girl.

Before they married, they bought a four bedroom house with four acres of land on a mountain top in Lee. Then they eventually moved to Lenox. The house they now call home was Ray’s late father’s home where Ray grew up. He also lived with his father after his mother died. The Kirbys used to live in the house next door to their home, which is now occupied by their son, Eric, who is a Lenox policeman. His wife, Meghan, is a member of the Lenox School Committee. They have three boys, including Ben, 10 years old, and seven-year-old twins, Shane and Will.

Eric wanted to be a policeman since he was a little boy, Diana said.

The job of policeman has several benefits, Ray added. “it’s full time, has full benefits, and one is always busy,” he said. In addition to Eric, the Kirbys’ have a daughter, Meredith, who goes by “Mimi” and lives in Becket.

She and her husband have a son, Cole, who is two years old.

Diana, a devoted grandmother, is “holding out hope for a granddaughter” but so far has just the four grandsons. Ray had his own small landscaping business for 10 years and then worked for the Lenox Department of Public Works (DPW) for 24 years.

After Diana had their two children, she went back to work evenings at Friendly’s for five years. When Eric went to kindergarten, she switched jobs and became a Lenox “town collector” in the tax department.

She worked there from 2001 to 2016 and then retired. Ray also officially retired from the DPW in 2016. However, he might still

be seen working in the graveyard of the Church on the Hill or in places around town to earn some spending money, he said. He has also done janitorial work at the Lenox Community Center. “He’s busy all the time,” Diana said of her husband.

About 10 years ago, Diana had a heart attack and Ray, as well as a lot of physical therapy, helped nurse her back to a full recovery.

“If it weren’t for him, I would have needed helpers,” Diana said.

The Kirbys’ had another setback last March when Diana had an unexpected stroke. Ray, once again, took over doing caregiver duties. She was still able to cook.

“It all blended together,” Ray said, matter-of-factly. “We help each other. We are in it for the long haul. “Diana has, once again, made an almost 100 percent recovery from the stroke. Both Diana and Ray share cooking duties. For instance, he made a big roast beef for the New Year, she said. They both also do household chores such as

washing clothes and cleaning.

Diana said she never would have married Ray if he didn’t work around the house.

In the spring, one will definitely whiff maple sap boiling in their backyard. Like his late father before him, Ray collects sap from maple trees in their yard and boils it down to maple syrup right on the premises. “I hated the taste at first,” Diane said. But she’s gotten used to the sweet taste of the syrup which they use at home as well as give as gifts.

He usually starts the spring sap boiling at 5:30 in the morning and finishes the operation by noon.

“It works out well,” he said.

He is also on the board of the Kennedy Park Commission and duties can include anything from horse manure to planning for the arrival of area club members visiting the park. Ray mentioned the commission lost two members, through death this past year, who will have to be replaced.

One thing the couple would

Between Diana and Ray, there will probably not be any major gift giving this Valentine’s Day. That’s an activity of the past. “Neither of us are overly emotional,” Diana added. Today, the four grandchildren are number one, taking top priority in their lives.

Upon deciding to be interviewed for a Berkshire Senior feature story, Ray agreed, providing the story was not all “lovey dovey.” “He’s not a lovey dovey kind of guy,” Diana laughed.

However, they still share a goodnight kiss every night, often with Brock, the boarder dog, and chunky Bunky, the pug, present.

“The dogs sleep between us,” Ray said.

No doubt, Diana and Ray, as well as the well-loved Brock, and Bunky, will all have a Happy Valentine’s Day.

50th Anniversary

continued from page 3

and look forward to continuing to serve our community for many years to come. We wish to express our sincerest gratitude to you, our community, for your encouragement and support, without which we could not fulfill our mission.

We invite you to join with us as we celebrate our 50 years of service to the Berkshire community!

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

VALENTINE’S DAY

agree upon 100 percent is their love of dogs, dating back to a pup named “Molly.” Together, they acquired her even before they were married. Throughout the decades, there have been Basset hounds, labs, and even a dog who was part pit bull. Today, their home includes an adorable pug, Bunky, who they chuckle is often nicknamed “Chunky Bunky,” for obvious reasons. He was named after Diana’s Uncle Bunky. Their constantly present “boarder” dog is Brock, a Black Lab mix who actually belongs to their son, Eric. Brock often runs to the Kirbys’ house from next door to keep Bunky company. He’s also a frequent overnight guest of Ray and Diana.

“They are part of the family, like kids,” Ray said of the dogs.

The grandsons love the dogs as well. At Halloween time they even might dress up the dogs in costumes and paint their toe nails!

On November 16, 2023, Pittsfield Police Office Darren Derby and the Police Department’s comfort dog, Winston, brought some pre-holiday cheer to the tenants at Providence Court in Pittsfield.

Marie Slonski poses with Officer Derby and Winston

330 North Street Pittsfield, MA 01201 February 21st 1pm-3:30pm

Come by to get help from MassHealth about your health coverage!

Winston greets Marianna Pacheco

413-499-1750 234 Wahconah Street Pittsfield MA 01201

MONUMENTS • MARKERS • LETTERING

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

If you have MassHealth, you will need to renew your coverage this year.

If you are 65 years or older, we are here to help! Support staff will be at Pittsfield Council on Aging: February 21st, 2024 to help you complete the renewal.

Make a reservation now to get help! Call 413-499-9346 for reservation.

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by Pam McDonald In my home, kitchen chores always begin with donning an apron. This practice reminds me of the best cook I’ve come to know- my mother. But wearing an apron (or not) hardly guarantees a perfect meal and is preferential for most people.

At the Elder Service’s kitchen in Lanesborough, home to the Meals on Wheels, wearing an apron is both regulation and a personal choice. Fifty-two weeks a year the Elder Service’s kitchen crew gather to create, prepare, package, and distribute close to 1,000 meals each day. That quantity of food preparation nourishes our seniors throughout Berkshire County while at the same time uniting employees and volunteers in a team effort to get the job done.

Robert St. Peter is a volunteer at Elder Service’s Meals on Wheels kitchen. When ‘Bob’ retired he wanted to give back

to his community. He states that “As an early riser, the opportunity to volunteer at Elder Service’s kitchen was the perfect fit for me.” Since January of 2012, Bob’s attendance has been steadfast for this simple reason, “It is the people,” he notes. The professionalism, and cooperation his colleagues demonstrate inspire him. “My colleagues are hard-working and very friendly.

This is a true team effort with a great mix of personalities which is why I look forward to coming to work every day.”

In 2020 when Berkshire communities faced the pandemic, Bob’s kitchen commitment increased to help get meals to seniors isolated in their homes.

His pace has yet to change. I visit the kitchen at times for office reasons or to help on the food line. Putting on an apron is my first task (and second nature.).

Then I get in place for the hour plus duty of doling out a gravy

or sauce. I stand beside Bob St Peter who offers advice on what works best for a newbie like me.

I can only thank him for his knowledge, kindness, and care for our Berkshire community. In closing, when asked to share his

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

VOLUNTEER PROFILE

Volunteer Profile- Bob St. Peter

s Comprehensive diagnostic hearing evaluations • to investigate medical concerns s Lifestyle focused hearing aid consultations • to enjoy the things that matter most

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510 North Street, Suite 9, Pittsfield, MA 01201 • (413) 443-4800 • greylockaudiology.com

thoughts for those considering volunteering at the kitchen site, Bob replies, ‘If you are not afraid to work and be a part of a great crew, then the kitchen is the place for you.’

Apron on, Bob!

Bob St. Peter with fellow Meals on Wheels volunteer Peggy Malumphy doing meal preparation wearing their aprons!

Providing comprehensive hearing healthcare in the Berkshires for 20+ years s Real Ear measurements • to optimize benefit from hearing aids s Tinnitus evaluation and treatment • to understand your options for relief

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

UNITED STATES CONGRESS

Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier

Congressman Richard Neal

24 Beacon Street, Room 127 Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2680 District Office: (413) 442-4300 Tricia.farley-bouvier@mahouse.gov

372 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-5601 300 State Street, Suite 200 Springfield, MA 01105-1711 (413) 785-0325

ESBCI Executive Director, Christopher McLaughlin and SHINE Program Supervisor Lisa Jamros accept a $10,000 donation from Greylock Federal Credit Union for the support of the SHINE Program (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone). Presenting the check from Greylock Federal Credit Union are (from left) JamieEllen Moncecchi, Senior Vice-President/Chief Administrative Officer and John Bissell, President and CEO.

Valentine’s Day

Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell popular Valentine’s Day items.

Rep. Smitty Pignatelli 24 Beacon Street, Room 473F Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2692 District Office: (413) 637-0631 Rep.smitty@mahouse.gov

WORKSHOP

BERKSHIRE COUNTY LEGISLATORS

Sen. Paul Mark 24 Beacon Street, Room 279 Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2017 District Office: (413) 464-5635 Paul.mark@masentate.gov

Rep. John Barrett, III 24 Beacon Street, Room 237 Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2305 District Office: (413) 743-8300 John.barrett@mahouse.gov

Berkshire Senior

Television

Currently airing on PCTV

Currently airing on PCTV, Access Pittsfield Channel 1301Channel Access 1301 Pittsfield Broadcast schedule: schedule:

1301 Mondays at 5:00PCTV p.m.channel ▪ Wednesday at 8:30 a.m.

Mondays at 5 p.m., Tuesdays at 3 p.m., Thursdays at 11 a.m.

Thursdays at 11:30 a.m.11:30 ▪ Saturdays at Noon & Saturday 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.

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

Elder Mental Health Outreach staff Hilary Houldsworth, Samantha Dominguez and Jill Lebar discuss self-care during the holidays with Kathleen Phillips

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ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024 8

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day!

by Susan Guerrero St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 is a holiday where everyone, regardless of ethnic background, can become a little bit Irish. Many people in the United States, even from childhood days, wear green on the one-day holiday.

The shamrock is a symbol of Ireland and the holiday’s namesake, St. Patrick, is the primary patron saint of that country. Anyone per using the Internet can find reams of information about both shamrocks, St. Patrick, and the special holiday that dates way back in history. Shamrocks are said to bring good luck, except for some animals like cats, dogs, and horses, according to Internet website information. To those animals, shamrocks are poisonous and therefore, quite unlucky.

According to the Library of Congress website, St. Patrick’s Day is an Irish as well as Irish-American holiday that commemorates the death, around the year 492, of St. Patrick. There are St. Patrick Day celebrations across the United States on March 17 and many include huge parades. The largest places that annually celebrate are Boston, M a s s a ch u s e t t s ; S ava n n a h , Georgia; and New York. The latter started St. Patrick Day celebrations in 1776, Boston in 1775, and Savannah, in 1824, according to the Library of Congress website.

St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, 45 Main St. in the village

An Irish Blessing May love and laughter light your days, and warm your heart and home.

May good and faithful friends be yours, Wherever you may roam.

May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures.

May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours!” of Harrisville, in Burrillville, Rhode Island, built in 1854, has extensive information about their namesake on their website. For instance, it is reported that St. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland. He used the three-leafed shamrock to teach the Trinity (the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) to Irish pagans. It’s noted that St. Patrick is also the patron saint of engineers since he had numerous churches constructed during his years of living in Ireland in the fifth century. He is also credited with the building of monasteries and schools.

A bit of surprising information about shamrocks can be found on the Wisconsin Horticulture website, Division of Extension, at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. It is noted there that there is “no such thing as a shamrock plant; shamrock

Because care begins at home WHOLE HEART HOME CARE SERVICES: SERVING BERKSHIRE COUNTY

Whole Heart Homecare now provides transport outside of Berkshire County

PERSONAL CARE | COMPANIONSHIP | HOMEKEEPING 150 North Street, Suite 25 • Pittsfield, MA WholeHearthc.com • 413.822.1641

Fully Licensed & Insured • Private Non-Medical Home Care Agency Locally Owned and Operated by an RN

is just a corruption of an Irish word that means ‘little clover.’

“Consequently, in the plant world, shamrock is also known as “wood sorrel.”

It has been widely reported that St. Patrick, as a teenager, was kidnapped by Irish raiders and forced to work as a shepherd for six years. It was, apparently, during this experience that his faith was deepened, according to information from several websites. He was able to escape, become reunited with his family, and eventually became a priest.

He returned to Ireland where he was said to have converted hundreds of pagans. His spiritual memoir, “The Confessio,” is said to be “faith put to work.”

St. Patrick is reported to offer protection from snake bites and infestation. During his life, apparently he caused “snakes to

drown themselves rather than cross his path.”

St. Patrick died in the year 492.

Since the arrival of thousands of Irish people throughout the decades, the holiday has become secularized. Today, in hundreds of households, one can count on eating corned beef and cabbage as well as boiled potatoes on St. Patrick’s Day. In addition, people continue to dress up in green, often wear party hats, and can even slug a couple of green beers.

St. Patrick’s Day is a grand old holiday that brings joy and laughter to all those who celebrate. At the end of the day, it’d be appropriate to sing a verse or two of the Irish lullaby, “Toora-loo-ra-loo-rall.” Its meaning is “I’ll be seeing you,”(according to the Santa Cruz Sentinel.)

TAX CREDIT

Senior “Circuit Breaker” Tax Credit You may be eligible for a refundable property tax credit!

By Laura Feakes, Elder Services I & R Specialist

Abatement/Amended Return.

Along with the amendment form, you submit a Schedule CB to calculate your credit. If you did not file Form 1, you must file Form 1 for that year now, together with Schedule CB. This must be completed within 3 years from the last day for filing the return, without regard to any extension of time to file.

For more information, you can go to the Mass. Dept of Revenue website, www.mass.gov/dor, where you can download forms and detailed instr uctions, including the brochure “Tax Tips for Seniors and Retirees” and “Massachusetts Tax Information for Seniors and Retirees”.

Free tax preparation assistance may be available from early February until April 15th through the Tax-Aide Program sponsored by the AARP Foundation for all middle and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to those age 60 and older. Volunteers are trained in cooperation with the IRS and will assist in filling out tax forms and then filing them electronically. You do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service. Berkshire County sites offering this service are generally local Senior Centers. The IRS’ Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites also offer free basic tax return preparation for qualified individuals. Local VITA sites include Berkshire Community Action Council (bcacinc.org, Pittsfield 413-418-3685; North Adams 413-663-3014) and Berkshire Habitat for Humanity (berkshirehabitat.org/vita, 413442-3181).

There are some other programs available if you feel burdened by property taxes.

Massachusetts law allows cities and towns to give exemptions, deferrals or abatements to

seniors, the blind, veterans, and other eligible homeowners to help them pay their property tax bills.

Seniors can also earn abatements through the Senior Property Tax Work-Off Program. Some of these programs are mandated by law, while others are by local option.

Your board of assessors, as the local tax administrator, decides whether you qualify. To find out about the specific eligibility and application requirements in your city or town, you must contact your local board of assessors.

For more information, see the DOR’s Taxpayer’s Guide to Local Property Tax Exemptions and Deferrals, www.mass.gov/lists/ property-tax-forms-and-guides.

If you do not have access to the internet, you can request a copy from Elder Services.

Elder Services Information and Referral (I & R) Department provides information about problems or issues relevant to seniors. I & R Specialists can be reached at 413-499-0524 or 1-800544-5242.

DID YOU KNOW? - In creating a password for your devices or accounts you should use at least 8 characters including one uppercase character, one lower case character, at least one number and at least one symbol.

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

Certain seniors who own or rent residential property are eligible for a refundable property tax credit – find out below if you qualify: The Circuit Breaker (CB) tax credit is offered to older persons in Massachusetts to offset high property tax bills. This tax break is called the “circuit breaker” because it is triggered like an electrical circuit breaker, when property tax payments, together with half of your water and sewer expense exceeds 10% of a person’s income for the same tax year. Even though the CB tax credit is based on your property tax payment, it is the state that pays you back - not your local city or town.

To be eligible for the credit for the 2023 tax year you must be at least 65 years of age before January 1, 2024, own or rent a home or apartment in Massachusetts and occupy it as your principal residence.

Your 2023 total income cannot exceed $69,000 for a single filer, $86,000 for a head of household, or $103,000 for married couples filing a joint return. For purposes of this credit, “total income” includes taxable income as well as exempt income such as social security, treasury bills, and public pensions. The assessed valuation of your property cannot be more than $1,025,000.

If the taxpayer owns more than one acre of land, only the assessed value of the principal residence, together with the land that immediately surrounds and is associated with that residence, not to exceed one acre, should be used in determining the eligibility of the taxpayer for the credit. The maximum credit allowed for tax year 2023 is $2,590, a significant increase from last year thanks to

a new tax relief package signed into law by the Governor.

If you rent, the law assumes that 25% of your rent goes toward property taxes. A formula, based on actual rent paid during the calendar year, is used to determine the amount of an elder tenant’s CB credit. No credit is allowed if the taxpayer claims the married filing separate status, receives a federal or state rent subsidy, rents from a landlord who is not required to pay real estate taxes, or is the dependent of another taxpayer.

You claim the credit by submitting a completed Schedule CB Worksheet and Schedule CB, Circuit Break Credit, with a 2023 state income tax return. If you do not normally file a state return because you don’t owe any state taxes, you still can take advantage of this tax break by filing a Form One plus the Schedule CB. Fullyear resident taxpayers who have previously filed a Massachusetts return are eligible to file an income tax return and apply for the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax credit on MassTaxConnect for free. Or, if you’re eligible, complete Schedule CB with your Mass state income tax return, using your tax software. You can also print out the forms found online and mail them to the Mass DOR. Any credit received by an eligible taxpayer is not considered income for the purposes of obtaining eligibility or benefits under other meanstested assistance programs including food, medical, housing, and energy assistance programs.

If you find yourself eligible, you can go back 3 tax years and claim the credit retroactively. For example, you have until April 17, 2024 to file for the circuit breaker tax rebate for 2020. If you filed a Form One, you must file a Form CA-6, which is an Application for

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DONATIONS

Thank You To Our Donors:

The following donations were received between November 1, 2023 and December 31, 2023. Donations received on or after December 31, 2023 will appear in the next issue of Berkshire Senior.

Memorial Donations

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

In Memory of: Remo DiTomasso Karen Bates In Memory of: William Broderick Katherine Broderick In Memory of: Joseph Russo Peter & Joanne Rowett Theresa Dascani In Memory of: Phillip & Amelia Cetti Richard & Susan Cetti In Memory of: Flora Fressola Lynn Myers Mary Fressola David Barbeau Bob Allard In Memory of: Richard L. Arpante, Sr. Lisa Arnold In Memory of: David Rogers Mary Rogers In Memory of: Maria Cirillo Andrew & Audrey Proto David Hanson Elyce Sherman Deryle Capozzi In Memory of: Kenneth Rivers Patricia Rivers In Memory of: Dermot Sporbert Richard & Maureen Tuggey In Memory of: Mary Flynn Kathleen M. Carter In Memory of: Wanda & C. Fred Dubis Elaine Dubis Kittler In Memory of: Robert E. Lee Elaine Lee In Memory of: Rosemary & Clint Ryan Ronald & Patricia Pero In Memory of Reno & Norma Burratto Scott & Jane LePrevost In Memory of: Mary Ellen Dean 10 Andrew Fox

Honorable Donations

In Honor of: Marie Cirillo Nancy Wilk In Honor of: John & Helen Fitzpatrick Sheila Fitzpatrick In Honor of: Jeffrey Twang Katrina Twang Gardner In Honor of: Barbara Milensky Karen R. Gold In Honor of: Edward Sedarbaum Stephen Pepper In Honor of: Joan Monteleone Susan Snyder

Elder Independence Donations James & Carol Edelman Stanley Ziemba Nancy Cook Sheila Goldlust George Munson Melissa Foster Lois Kornn Joan Goddeau Cheryl S. Baker Frank & Suzanne Engels Dr. John Galt Rabbi Daveen Litwin William & Patricia Flaherty Asta S. Potter Dr. Harry Hartford Esq. Alan J. Righi Eleanor A. Gifford Marilyn DeRosa Joseph Rogge Antonio & Margaret P. Pagliarulo Andrea & Lorenza Pozzoni Sarah HitchcockDegregori Diana Fontana Gerard & Christine Hurley Ralph & Frances Robinson Joseph & Nancy Tirrell Patricia Parker Mary M. Hayes David & Dorothy Collari John & Deborah De Forest, Sr.

Joel & Patrice Less Barbara Rubin Maria Greig-Williams Cynthia J. Sault Debra Bedard Lois Ireland Forsley David & Cheryl Cornell Donald J. Fortin Jennifer Caridi Peter Traub George & Patricia Kellar Mary E. Hayes Bruce Shickmanter Louis Robesch & Virgie E. Perdriset Alfred & Evelyn Goggia Fern E. Lavelle Robert M. Veit Nancy Borges Bo & Katherine Peabody Michelle Tyer Angelo Borsello, Jr. Jane L. Betti Katharine L.W. & Winthrop Crane, III Frank Battista John S. Vachula Robert Carlino Paula J. Farrell Charles & Verna Houff Winthrop D. Kie, Sr. Karen Barile Constance Cooper Helaine Rose Carolyn Renzi Kathy Hart Tom & Marlene Atwood Marie Harpin Donald & Barbara Percy Mary Camyre Bruce Randall Barry & Judith Dichter Malcolm Douglas, Jr Rosalie Noyes Timothy & Mary Korte Diane Israelite Weinstein Susan J. Ricci Lee McClelland Ronald H. Bourgoin John & Judith Ladd Anita Busch Elizabeth Prevey Sylvia Gingras Dan Mead & Sally Eagle Constance Metall Richard Daub Robert & Shirley Annelli Jeffrey Cook Alicia L. Brazie John & Nancy Burton

Betty Kasuba Allan & Susan Pike Marilyn Shulklapper Thomas Furlano Uldis & Maija Surmanis Harry A Morey Russell M. Kenyon Richard & Wendy Clothier Francis Investment Consulting Group John Kelliher John & Deborah De Forest, Sr. Maia M. Robbins-Zust John Bissell Gerald & Vidahlia Ferreira Barry Kriesberg Howard Rosenberg Barbara A. Benham Peter S. Karpenski Daniel & Jeanne Boino, Sr. William & Janine M. Reid Daniel & Emma Connors Neville D. Toye, Jr. Lynn Myers Barbara D. Bennett Henry & Susan Flint Josephine Buzzanco

Stephen & Jodi St. Peter Barbara Rubin Carol A. Christopher Robert & Margaret Cimini Jay Bikofsky Olivia S. Zegarowski Rose J. Shaw Trudeau Enterprises Donna Cwalinski Peter Hofman William Turner Mary Skorupa Alfred Bedini, Sr. Richard & Ruth Moon Richard & Sandra Cobb Maureen D. Strype John & Ada Masiero David Ariazi Cindy Shogry-Raimer Leda Melideo Terry F. Cardin K-M Motor Sales, INC. Richard M. Macht James Robinson Thomas & Mary Vaughan George & Betty Sweet Joseph Havrilla

Judith Ambery Karen R. Ketcham Carole Holliday Marion Adler Pamela Kidder Judith Trask Anne Goodwin Sarah & James DelSignor Mary Ellen Prescott Jeffry & Marcella Bradway Wade Hoffman Laurie N. Moffatt Christopher Blair

Meals on Wheels Donations Susan Brazeau Marian Roper Arthur & Judith Litchfield Anne Rajotte Tim & Sharon Coe Paul & Kim Bruce

SHINE Donations Cynthia M. Armstrong Philip & Anne Rennie

Volunteers Needed!

Do you look forward to reading Berkshire Senior? Do you have an interest in issues or information that are important to seniors? We need volunteers who can share their creativity and writing skills to provide input and content to Berkshire Senior. We would love to have you serve on our Editorial Board. We meet every other month for about 45 minutes to decide on the content of the next Berkshire Senior issue.

Meetings are currently run virtually.

If you are interested in learning more please contact Kathleen Phillips, Planning & Development Supervisor at (413) 499-0524. We look forward to hearing from you.

VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT

Food Service

Volunteer Placements Volunteer Placements

ment and throughout the year.

Consistent attendance required for SHINE certification completion.

Contact: Pam McDonald 413-499-0524 x 178 Contact: Isaac Share 413-499-0524 x 750 Contact: Pam McDonald 413-499-0524 x 178 Contact: Isaac Share 413-499-0524 x 750

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

Prepare and package meals at the Lanesboro ESBC kitchen.

Morning food prep for a 2 to 3 hour commitment.

Food Service Prepare and package meals at the Lanesborough ESBCI kitchen.

One day or more per week.

Food Service PrepareMorning and package mealsfor atathe ESBC kitchen. food prep 2 toLanesboro 3 hour commitment.

Morning food prep for a 2 to 3 hour commitment.

Meals On Wheels Driver Timely delivery of hot meals to homebound elders a set route.

Food Service PrepareOne andday package meals at the Lanesborough on ESBCI kitchen. or more per week.

One day or more per week.

Shifts begin at 9:30 am; 12:30 pm.

Morning food prep for aending 2 to 3by hour commitment.

Meals on Wheels Driver Timely delivery of hot meals to homebound elders on a set route.

Substitute welcome.

One day ordrivers more per week.

Meals On Wheels Driver Timely delivery of hot meals to homebound elders Shifts begin at 9:30 am; ending by 12:30 pm.on a set route.

Shifts begin at 9:30 am;meals ending 12:30 pm. elders on a set route.

Meals on Shopping Wheels Driver Timely delivery ofdrivers hot toby homebound Substitute welcome.

Grocery Assistant Shop with a list and deliver groceries to elder’s home.

Substitute drivers welcome.

Shifts begin at 9:30 am; ending by 12:30 pm.

Transport an elder to grocery store for independent shopping.

Substitute drivers welcome.

Grocery Shopping Assistant Shop with a list and deliver groceries to elder’s home.

Grocery Shopping Assistant Shop with a list and deliver groceries to elder’s home.

Transport an elder to grocery store for independent shopping.

Companionship Provide conversation connection elder in Berkshire County.

Transport an elder to /grocery storeto foranindependent shopping.

Grocery Shopping Assistant Shop with a list and deliver groceries to elder’s home.

A weekly 1-2 hour visit in-person or by telephone conversation.

Transport an elder to grocery store for independent Companionship Provide conversation / connection to an elder inshopping.

Berkshire County.

Companionship Provide conversation / connection to an elder in Berkshire County.

Senior Dining Assist with dining prep and clean up at local Council on Aging sites.

A weekly 1-2 hour visit in-person or by telephone conversation.

A weekly 1-2 hour visit in-person or by telephone conversation.

Arrive late morning for dining set up and to serve hot lunch.

Companionship Provide conversation / connection to an elder in Berkshire County.

Senior Dining Assist with prep dining prep andup clean up atCouncil local Council on sites.

Aging meal Senior Dining Assist with dining clean on Aging A weekly 1-2 hour visitand in-person oratbylocal telephone conversation.

Long Term Care Ombudsman Visit residents in a nursing facility todining hear and advocate for them. sites.

Arrive late morning set up and serve hot lunch.

Arrive late morning for dining setfor up and to serve hot to lunch.

Ombudsman training required for ethics and skills education.

Senior Dining Assist with dining prep and clean up at local Council on Aging meal Arrive late for dining set to up and to serve lunch.

LongCare Term Care Ombudsman sites.

Visit residents in a nursing facility listen and advocate for them.

Long Term Ombudsman Visit residents in amorning nursing facility to hear and advocate forhot them.

SHINE—Serving the Health A thorough training one the specifics Medicare to Ombudsman training required for and ethics andof skills education.

Ombudsman trainingeducates required for on ethics skills education. assistresidents seniors navigate health coverage options openfor enrollLong Term Care Ombudsman Visit in a nursing facility to listen andduring advocate them.

Insurance Needs of Elders ment and throughout the year.

Ombudsman training required foronethics and SHINE—Serving the Health A thorough training educates one theskills specifics of Medicare to SHINE—Serving the Health A thorough training educates one the on specifics of education.

Medicare to Consistent attendance required for SHINE certification completion.

Insurance Needs of Everyone assist seniors navigate coverage open enrollassist seniors navigate health health coverage optionsoptions duringduring open enrollInsurance Needs of Elders ment and throughout the year. ment and throughout the year.

SHINE—Serving the Health A thorough training educates one on the specifics of Medicare to Consistent attendance required for SHINE certification completion.

Consistent attendance required foroptions SHINE certification Insurance Needs of Everyone assist seniors navigate health coverage during opencompletion. enroll-

11

MEALS ON WHEELS

Berkshiretown Apartments Appleton Managed Properties

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

Our Apartments ALWAYS Include

Heat & Hot Water

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

• Resident Services • Convenient Location • Controlled Entry • Private Balconies (for most apartments)

• We are Pet Friendly • 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance Services

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

aberkshiretown@oconnells.com oconnellseniorliving.com

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

Marketed & Managed by

12

Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc.

Let Us Welcome You Home

Join over 1,500 of the most creative, engaged, and active adults in the Berkshires (and beyond) for courses, events, and community.

Online and inperson!

Learn more at berkshireolli.org or call 413.236.2190.

What defines us?

Compassion. Integrity.

Community.

Integritus Healthcare.

Because you are a part of us.

800-445-4560 www.integritushealthcare.org

PROVIDING CARE YOU CAN COUNT ON: • Short-term recovery stays • Physical, occupational & speech therapy • Long-term, inpatient skilled care • Respite stays • Hospice care

FAIRVIEW COMMONS • HILLCREST COMMONS KIMBALL FARMS NURSING CARE CENTER MT. GREYLOCK EXTENDED CARE • NORTH ADAMS COMMONS WILLIAMSTOWN COMMONS

NUTRITION PROGRAM SENIOR COMMUNITY BERKSHIRE COUNTY DINING CENTERS The status and offerings of the Senior 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.

T-TH

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 394-4160

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.

T-W

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.

T-W

11:30 am

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. The 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.

Facts about medically tailored meals • Did you know that Elder Services provides medically tailored meals (MTMs)?

• MTMs help meet the needs of seniors with health conditions that require specific diets such as diabetes and heart and kidney disease.

• MTMs can be delivered to individuals at their home five days a week. Menus are developed by a registered dietician and trained staff.

• Call Elder Services at (413) 499-0524 to request a special meal such as pureed, cardiac, diabetic, renal and vegetarian.

If you want to keep an aging loved one safe at home, Home Instead® can help.

• Personal Care • Companionship • Meal Prep

Services:

• Transportation • Hospice Support • Memory Care

DONATIONS

Do you need help paying your Heating Bills?

Berkshire Community Action may be able to help!

2024 Income guidelines to qualify for Fuel Assistance

• Arthritis Care • Diabetes Care • Chronic Conditions Support

Family Size

Income

1

$45,392

2

$59,359

3

$73,326

To learn more about what BCAC can do for you, contact us: Central / South County | 413-445-4503 North County | 413-663-3014 If you are eligible for fuel assistance, you may qualify for more helpful programs.

Call (413) 442-0907 or visit HomeInstead.com/Berkshire

Follow us:

Visit our website: www.bcacinc.org bcacinc.org

Each Home Instead® franchise is independently owned and operated franchise of Home Instead, Inc., `an Honor Company. © 2020 Home Instead, Inc.

The way YOU would like to be remembered...

Allow us to help 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.

Meet the Berkshires Senior Care Family

Springside 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 1918 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 US : 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

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

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

When it comes to caring for seniors, it’s a matter of trust

13

TECHNOLOGY CORNER

TECHNOLOGY CORNER

Improve Your Health and Well-Being with a Fitbit

by Perry Burdick Staying active and healthy is crucial for people of all ages, and Fitbit offers fantastic tools for achieving these goals. In this tech article, we’ll explore how Fitbit can be a valuable companion for seniors, providing insights, motivation, and a user-friendly experience tailored to their needs.

So, what exactly is a Fitbit?

A Fitbit is a watch that monitors your daily activities such as steps, distance, sleep, calories, heart rate, and oxygen levels. The watch connects to your cellphone with Bluetooth.

(By the way, Bluetooth is a tradename for a short-range radio connection. Really short, approximately thirty feet. Yes, it’s an odd name, but welcome to technology.) A summary of this information is displayed on the watch, but the real power comes from the Fitbit app on your

phone. Did I mention that it also keeps time?

Ease of Use Fitbit devices are designed to be easy to use. Typically they feature user-friendly interfaces and large displays for easy readability.

The setup process is fairly straightforward, but, if you’re not familiar with setting up Bluetooth devices or installing apps, better to contact that twelve-year-old guru to set it up. You’ll be using it quickly after it’s set up.

Activity Tracking Fitbits monitor daily activities, such as steps taken, distance traveled, and calories burned.

You can enable notifications to act as a gentle reminder to stay active and reach personalized fitness goals.

Heart Health Monitoring Fitbit’s heart rate monitoring capabilities are especially

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024 14

Sleep Tracking Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall wellbeing. Fitbit’s sleep tracking features provide individuals with valuable information about their sleep patterns, helping them understand and improve their rest. Of course, this requires you to wear your Fitbit to bed, but the valuable information is worth it. There is a sleep graph of how much time you spend awake and in the different sleep stages. A benchmark feature shows where you compare to others of like age.

Motivation and Challenges Fitbit encourages a sense of accomplishment by setting daily or weekly goals. Seniors can engage in friendly challenges with friends or family, fostering

Savino

BERKSHIRE PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS

Voted Best of the Berkshires!

beneficial for seniors. By tracking heart rate, the device provides insights into cardiovascular health and can help detect irregularities.

Empire Monuments, Inc.

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

Conclusion The price of a new Fitbit is between $50 to $250. Make sure the Fitbit you purchase has the features you want. Not all Fitbits can track heart rate, so if that is a feature you need or don’t need, shop accordingly. Fitbit is more than just a fitness tracker or pedometer; it’s a companion that empowers seniors to take control of their health and well-being. By integrating this wearable technology into their lives, elderly individuals can enjoy the benefits of staying active, monitoring their health, and staying connected with a supportive community.

Assisted Living Locators

Your local senior living advisor

TM

Est. 1931 Complete Service of Monuments & Markers BRENT SYLVIA, PT

JACKIE FARRELL, DPT THOMAS COONEY, DPT

START YOUR SEARCH

Pittsfield Office 740 Williams Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201 413-447-8070 Dalton Office 400 Main Street, Dalton, MA 01226 413-684-9783

a supportive and motivating environment. Fitbit promotes increased activity by setting daily goals for steps, active zone minutes, and calories burned.

There is an option for hourly activity that reminds you to walk 250 steps every hour.

Katie Krupka,

RYAN TUGGEY, PTA

ROBERT PADUANO, PT

SHAUNNA HOULE, DPT

100 Wahconah St. Pittsfield, MA 01201 (413) 442-4149

TIFFANY BROWER, PT JOHN DELAHANTY, DPT AMANDA ROBERTS, DPT

Donna Brewer, Owner Steven J Brewer, Director

Certified Senior Advisor®, Certified Care Manager 413.329.6730 KatieK@ AssistedLivingLocators.com No-Cost Placement and Referral Services for: Independent Living Communities Assisted Living Communities Memory Care Communities In-Home Care

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

If You Need Transportation Assistance We Are Available Serving All of New England & New York

Established in 2003

• Medical Appointments • Holiday Get Togethers • Dinner • Shopping

You name it , we do it!

18 Oak St., Pittsfield, MA • (413) 447-3800

LIFE CARE & YOU AT KIMBALL FARMS

• Financial security and long-term predictability • Estate preservation • Quality care no matter what your health care needs are

• Guaranteed access to health care accommodations • Great personal peace of mind • The gift of a lifetime for your children

To learn more, see more and meet people who do more, please call 413-614-3400 or visit www.kimballfarms.org

“Living at Kimball Farms gives me the freedom to spend my time doing the things I enjoy.”

— Dave, Kimball Farms Life Care Resident

235 Walker Street, Lenox, MA • 413-614-3400

2013

GOLD

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

You deserve a Life Care community with a reputation for stimulating social experiences, exceptional service, strong staffing and a welcoming, comfortable environment. No matter what your care needs are, the best will be available.

Kimball Farms offers all this and more:

15

ELDER FUN

Wellington 413.442.5094 | DwyerFuneral.com

Elder Services’ Berkshire Senior, February - March 2024

“Honored to serve our community for 120 years & 5 Generations!”

16

North St East St Main St Dalton