Berkshire Senior June - July 2023

Mission Statement

The mission of Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. is to provide Berkshire elders, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and self-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.

MassHealth Renewal Process Please Pay Close Attention to that Blue Envelope

By Christopher McLaughlin, Executive Director of Elder Services

After more than three years of an unprecedented pandemic that upended every aspect of our lives, we are finally (mostly) on the other side. The Federal Government’s declaration of the end of the Federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) effective May 11 means the virus does not pose the same level of threat now that many of us are vaccinated.

Berkshire Senior

Editorial Board: Deb Aldrich, Christine Thomson, Laura Feakes, Christopher McLaughlin, Kathleen Phillips, Susan Guerrero, Yvonne Borsody 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

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.

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.

After the March of 2020 declaration of the PHE, MassHealth put protections in place that prevented MassHealth members from losing their Medicaid coverage during the pandemic. Now that the PHE has ended, MassHealth has resumed its standard eligibility process. All current MassHealth recipients (2.3 million statewide) will need to renew their Medicaid coverage to ensure they still qualify for benefits. MassHealth will also focus on individuals who have turned 65 since February 2020. The MassHealth Renewal (also known as Redetermination) process will last 12 months. Please pay close attention to any communication you receive from MassHealth, particularly a blue envelope.

The first thing you should do is ensure that MassHealth has your most up to date address, phone number, and e-mail address and that you report any changes in your job status, income, disability status or pregnancy. Providing MassHealth with your most current information helps ensure you continue to receive the benefits you qualify for.

If MassHealth is not able to automatically renew your information, they will send you a blue envelope. Please pay close attention to the blue envelope as it means you must take action to renew your coverage.

The following is from State Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier’s April 20, 2023 Newsletter:

There are a few options to renew your coverage:

1. Complete the paper renewal form included in your blue envelope.

2. Call the MassHealth customer service line at (800) 841-2900

3. Go in-person to the MassHealth enrollment center

1. Our closest center is in Springfield located at 88 Industry Avenue, Suite D, Springfield, MA

continued on page 4

COVER PHOTO: Lisa Allen, Food Services Supervisor at ESBCI Meals on Wheels Kitchen

Photo by John Dolan, courtesy of Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation

FB/BerkshireSenior Twitter: @Berkshire Senior Instagram: berkshiresenior LinkedIn: Elder Services of Berkshire County

Live, Think & Breathe Food

by Susan Guerrero

When it comes to selecting and cooking super fresh vegetables, two Berkshire seniors are true experts. Beth Putnam and Karen Roche have been going to the Pittsfield Farmers’ Market for many years. They were among the first customers to support the market when it opened for business. The local market is special to them for many reasons.

“Almost all of our farmers are female, some with infants and other children,” Putnam said. She is on a first name basis with most of them. “They are part of my community,” she said. “I like the sense of community, folks coming together,” Roche said. “There’s always so much going on.” There are usually special events and activities and the chance to see neighbors and friends in a beautiful outdoor setting, she explained. “Not to mention lots of good food, fresh produce, and some markets even

have live entertainment.”

Both women agree that it is important to support local farmers. “They are our friends and neighbors, and they are providing a desperately needed service that ultimately is a betterment for our community and each other, “ Roche said. “We need to remember that ultimately, our food comes from the ground, not the supermarket.”

Putnam gets meat from the market’s local farmers, too. The purchase of local produce and meat helps families pay for their kids’ ballet lessons and buy new trailers, she said. Putnam said a “huge hole” in farmers’ market suppliers is in butchering. The local farmers often have to go out of town to have their animals prepared due to not having that type of service available locally. It’s helping people who raise produce rather than the fruits and vegetables found in a supermarket, Putnam theorized.

“We are not trucking in lettuce

4. Renew your coverage online via the MassHealth online portal

1. If you do not already have an account, you can use the link included in your letter to create an account and then submit the necessary information

2. If you already have an account, log-in to renew your coverage by submitting necessary information

Once you receive your blue envelope, you have 45 days to respond in order to continue receiving MassHealth benefits.

• If you do not reply, your coverage will expire 14 days later

• There is a 90-day grace period to renew your coverage following expiration to receive retroactive coverage should you incur any health insurance expenses during that timeframe,

For Example: If you receive your letter on April 1st, 2023:

• You have until May 15th to reply to renew, which is 45 days after you received your letter.

• If you do not reply, your coverage would end on May 29th, which is 14 days after your 45-

from Arizona,” Putnam said. “There are no shipping costs. They have been grown right here in Berkshire County.

The bond between customers and farmers at the market is symbiotic, Putnam said. “I support them, they support me,” Both women agree that eggs purchased at the market are the freshest possible. Putnam always buys an extra dozen. She also brings empty egg cartons back to the farmers so they can be refilled. As for eggs purchased at the market, Roche said, “Farm fresh eggs. Come on, need I say more?”

Putnam and Roche discussed the cost of food purchased at a farmers market compared to food bought in a supermarket. “I don’t know about dollar for dollar cheaper,” Roche said, “but it tastes better and lasts longer than store bought,” Roche said. “It’s healthier for you, and healthier for the environment. “She added that for those who qualify,

day re-enrollment period.

• Your 90-day grace period would end on June 30th. If you re-enroll by this date, any covered health costs incurred from April 1st to June 30th would be retroactively covered.

If MassHealth is able to automatically renew your coverage with the up-to-date information they have on file, they will send you a letter confirming your enrollment for the next year.

I still have questions. Who do I contact?

The best place to get your questions answered is through the MassHealth customer service line at (800) 841-2900. Or you can call Elder Services’ Benefit Support Specialist at (413) 499-0524.

If you are experiencing MassHealth renewal difficulties, your State Representative could be able to help. If you live in Pittsfield, you can contact Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier’s Legislative Aide: Lisa Fletcher-Udel (lisa. fletcherudel@mahouse.gov; 413-442-4300).

Updating your information with MassHealth, paying close attention to your mail and promptly responding to the blue envelope are the best ways to ensure your coverage continues.

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

SNAP benefits (food stamps) are accepted at the markets, with its Matching Funds programs, and HIP incentives (Healthy Incentive Program, connected with SNAP). Many Berkshire seniors also use Farmers’ Market coupons received in the summer to buy produce at the local farmers market. So there are many ways to save money while supporting the local farmers, they emphasized.

Roche is a lifelong Pittsfield resident who grew up as the middle child in a large family. While her family did not frequent going to farmers markets, her mother did have a huge garden so fresh produce was always available. Roche said canning produce for winter consumption was considered part of farming almost as much as planting. “I always helped Mom in the garden, and loved to pull carrots and eat them right from the garden,” she said. “In recent years, my involvement with local programs like Working Cities Pittsfield and Pittsfield Composts led me to a deeper involvement with the market by manning tables at different events,” she said. “I’m looking forward to returning to that level of involvement this season.”

Putnam, who was born in Wilbraham, moved to Pittsfield

MassHealth Renewal Process, continued from page 3

Berkshire County Farmers’ Markets 2023

by Laura Feakes and Isaac Share

Find the bounty of Massachusetts Agriculture at your Local Farmers’ Market! You can expect to find a wide array of fresh vegetables and fruits. You may also find baked goods, maple products, honey, eggs, farmstead cheeses, apple cider, jams and jellies, flowers, and even turkey and meats. To make the Farmers’ Markets more affordable to all, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers Senior Farmers’ Market Coupons that can be exchanged for eligible foods (fruits, vegetables, honey, and fresh-cut herbs). In addition, many Farmers’ Markets are able to accept EBT-SNAP benefits. To use your SNAP benefits at the Market find the Manager’s or Information Booth when you arrive. Tell the person at the Booth you would like to use your EBT card at the market and they will explain how it works. If you are a SNAP household you will be automatically enrolled in HIP, the Healthy Incentives Program

and may be eligible to receive $1 for each dollar you spend on eligible fruits and vegetables, up to a monthly limit. Check out mass.gov/hip for more information. SNAP benefits can also now be used for online ordering at some markets. Senior Farmers’ Market Coupons are usually not available until after July 1 – check with your local Council on Aging or Senior Center after that date. To be eligible for the coupons you must be 60 years of age or older, or disabled and living in senior housing where congregate nutrition services are provided, and your gross household income (i.e. before taxes are withheld) must be no more than 185 % of the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines. The guidelines for 2023: 1 person household, $26,973/ yr ($2,248/m); 2 persons $36,482/ yr ($3,041/m). Farmers’ Market Senior coupons are worth $50 per booklet ($5.00 each coupon) and are used like cash with participating farmers at certified Farmers’ Markets. Look for the Farmers’ Market Coupons

Live, Think & Breathe Food, continued from page 4

from New Marlborough 12 years ago. At that time, there was more affordable real estate, she said.

She earned a degree in economics from Western New England College in Springfield. She worked as a bartender at the Stockbridge Inn, served as assistant innkeeper at Old Inn on the Green in New Marlborough, for 20 years, and retired as assistant manager of Bistro Zinc in Lenox in 2011. “I’ve been a foodie all my life,” Putnam said. “I live, think, and breathe food.” Even as a child, her family grew a garden. Putnam said when she lived in New Marlborough, she grew an extensive garden, including tomatoes for 35 years. Here in Pittsfield, she grows things like arugula, cilantro, lettuces and peas in containers behind her house.

Roche passed on some ideas for using the fresh veggies one gets at the Pittsfield Farmers Market. “Imagine your favorite quiche using the freshest eggs, onions, and mushrooms you bought that day, just for that meal,” she said. “Last week, we added fresh spinach. Delicious!” She also suggested chopping a couple of carrots, parsnips, and beets into bite-sized chunks. Add chopped onions and toss everything together with olive oil. Add seasonings of choice and then pop the veggies into a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes or to taste.

Putnam has some words for people who refrain from going to the Pittsfield Farmers Market. She said, “You are missing out.”

Accepted sign at individual farmers’ stalls at the market. If you do not see the sign, just ask the grower if he/she participates in the program. No change is given for the coupons, so be sure to use the full amount of every coupon with each purchase. The coupons expire October 31st.

Berkshire Area/Lanesboro

Farmers’ Market

Berkshire Mall South Parking Lot; Route 8

Until November - Saturdays, 8am - 2pm See them on Facebook

WIC / Senior Coupons Accepted, SNAP-EBT/HIP accepted by select vendors only

Great Barrington Farmers’ Market

18 Church Street

Until November - Saturdays, 9am - 1pm

WIC & Senior Coupons, & EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted www.greatbarringtonfarmersmarket.org, also on Facebook

Hancock Farmers’ Market

3210 Hancock Rd / Rt 43

Appletree Hill Organic Farm farmstand

June to October weekends

Lee Farmers’ Market

Town Green next to Town Hall & First Congregational Church

Until October - Saturdays

10am - 2pm

WIC & Senior Coupons, EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted

www.leefarmersmarket.com

See them on Facebook

Lenox Farmers’ Market

80 Church St

Until September - Fridays, 11am - 3p.m.

WIC, Senior Coupons, EBT-SNAP

Accepted by select vendors only lenox.org/lenox-farmers-market

New Marlborough

New Marlborough Village Green

(Route 57)

Saturdays 10am -1pm through October

WIC, Senior Coupons Accepted on Facebook

North Adams Farmers’ Market

Marshall St. & Center St-St.

Anthony Municipal Parking Lot

June to October - Saturdays, 9am - 1pm

WIC, Senior Coupons & EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted

www.northadamsfarmersmarket.com

Otis Farmers’ Market

2000 East Otis Rd-Papa’s Food & Fuel, Rt 23

Until October - Saturdays, 9am - 1pm

WIC & Senior Coupons Accepted, SNAP-EBT/HIP accepted with select vendors only

Pittsfield/Downtown

Farmers’ Market

On the Common across from the First Street Parking Lot

Until October - Saturdays, 9am - 1pm

WIC, Senior Coupons, & EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted farmersmarketpittsfield.org, also on Facebook

Sheffield Farmers’ Market

First Congregational Church Parking Lot in the Village Green

Until October - Fridays, 3 - 6 pm

WIC & Senior Coupons, EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted, www.sheffieldfarmersmarket.org see them on Facebook

West Stockbridge Farmers’ Market

Foundry Green on Harris StreetVillage Center

Until October 6 - Thursdays, 3 - 6pm

WIC, Senior Coupons, & EBTSNAP/HIP Accepted

www.weststockbridgefarmersmarket.org See them on Facebook

Williamstown Farmers’ Market

Spring Street parking lot

Until October - Saturdays, 9am - 1 pm

WIC, Senior Coupons, HIP, SNAP Accepted www.williamstownfarmersmarket.org

by Susan Guerrero

Some memories of childhood remain etched forever in the heart and mind. One of these happens to be as permanent a part of life as death and taxes. Throughout my childhood, my father grew a huge garden with tons of fresh and totally luscious vegetables. He learned how to do this annual miracle from his Lithuanian mother, my paternal grandmother. Behind the barn of their West Pittsfield farmhouse there was hilly terrain. Every spring, my grandmother planted hundreds of seeds and plants

Memories of Our Family Garden

that resulted in a year’s supply of every kind of vegetable imaginable.

With eyes closed, I can still see her aproned figure bending over the dozens of rows of plants. Her gray hair was twisted in a thick, pulled back pug. At night, before she went to bed, Grandma untied the pug and her hair reached down past her hips when she brushed it out. The rumor was that she had never cut it in her entire life. Grandma was a true country woman. She loved milking her own cow, raised chickens, and grew exceedingly fragrant and different colored

peonies in her flower garden. Her vegetable garden, however, could have won prizes so Daddy had a great teacher. His garden stretched out in the backyard of an old house on Onota Street in town. Past the swing set, sandbox, playhouse, garage, and lawn, the garden was really very huge. To the left, a jungle of raspberry bushes produced hundreds of the fat, thick red berries. Nothing could compare with their luscious taste. Daddy would pick a huge handful and offer them to us. Occasionally we’d squeal over discovery of a tiny white worm inside a berry but my father never made a big deal out of that. “No extra charge,” seemed to be his attitude regarding the tiny worm.

In the spring, Daddy borrowed some kind of a machine that turned the earth and brought up many fat, wiggly night crawlers. The next step in the garden process was bringing a truckload of manure. He spread it over all the newly turned earth. It stunk like hell. My sisters and I screamed bloody murder when we got a whiff of that pungent animal poo. I think it might have come from horses. Daddy said it was necessary to add richness to the soil. Using a shovel, rake, or hoe, he’d work the garden’s soil and eventually drop seeds into newly dug holes. We didn’t dare step into the garden at this stage of development as our clumsy feet could seriously hurt the tender

BERKSHIRE COUNTY LEGISLATORS

UNITED STATES CONGRESS

Congressman Richard Neal

372 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-5601

300 State Street, Suite 200 Springfield, MA 01105-1711

(413) 785-0325

Rep. Smitty Pignatelli

24 Beacon Street, Room 473F

Boston, MA 02133

(617) 722-2692

District Office: (413) 637-0631

Rep.smitty@mahouse.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

Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier

24 Beacon Street, Room 127

Boston, MA 02133

(617) 722-2680

District Office: (413) 442-4300

Tricia.farley-bouvier@mahouse.gov

Sen. Paul Mark

24 Beacon Street, Room 279

Boston, MA 02133

(617) 722-2017

District Office: (413) 464-5635

Paul.mark@masentate.gov

seedlings that popped up out of the dark earth.

Daddy would come home from work at night, grab a hose, and give the newly formed plants a good dousing. Each day, the little sprouts grew bigger and bigger. Tomatoes the size of baseballs would form on the green plants and eventually turn into a brilliant shade of red. If we were lucky, we’d get to pluck a tomato and bite into it. The taste could never be compared to supermarket tomatoes. Juice would dribble down our chins. No tomato, to this day, has ever tasted as luscious as those grown by my father.

Other days, we’d get to pull up delicious carrots. We’d shake them to get the dirt off and then wipe them down on our shorts before biting into them on the back steps of our house. Sweet lusciousness burst in our mouths as we crunched the fresh carrots. They were perfection.

Daddy also grew chives, onions, potatoes, squash, and all kinds of other veggies.

Clear in memory are the long stalks of fresh corn. When the

cobs were ready to be picked, there was action outside and inside the house. My father would shuck each piece of corn, tearing at the silk and crinkly covers that exposed rows of sweet, sumptuous, yellow kernels. Inside the house, my mother would pull out one of the biggest pots she owned, pour water into it, and set it over the electric unit on the stove. As soon as Daddy brought in a huge basket of fresh corn, they’d get plopped into the boiling water. The best part came when my mother piled a mini-mountain of the corn on the cobs on a huge platter. Steam would rise from the golden cobs as she placed the platter on the kitchen table. There was always fresh butter in which to roll the cobs. Then, after a light sprinkling of salt, we’d help ourselves to the corn and place them on the plates in front of us. Oh heavens, nothing could ever compare with the taste of fresh corn on the cob, eaten within minutes of being picked from the garden.

Daddy also grew light purple iris that had a sweet, delicate

fragrance, and dozens of perky yellow daffodils. He loved those flowers and let us all know in a loud voice when the first one bloomed.

Today, I rarely drive past the old homestead that has long since been sold to other owners. It’s just too sad. I wonder if any

of Daddy’s perennial flowers still bloom.

What about the garden? Is it now covered with grass and filled with just memories?

There is nothing in this world like vegetables fresh from a garden. It is truly a wonderful thing to remember and relish.

Bob Pytko, Manager of Adams Hometown Market and Market employee Brooke Roberts present Kathleen Phillips, ESBCI Development and Planning Supervisor, a check for Meals on Wheels. The donation is from the proceeds of the Market’s “March Round-Up Donation Program” where customers round up the total of their purchase to benefit ESBCI’s Meals on Wheels Program.

At

Our unique approach to assisted living and memory care allows residents to enjoy the opportunities for social interaction, creative expression, and intellectual growth while receiving the personalized care they need.

Kimball Farms, retirement living is not a concept, it's a lifestyle.

Singing with Threshold Choir Blesses all of Us

by Linda Bryce, administrator of Berkshire Threshold Choir

In small groups of twos and threes, choir members sing gently at the bedsides of those who are sick and dying.

Founded in 2016, our Berkshire Threshold Choir is the only western Massachusettsbased chapter. It is one of more than 200 chapters which are affiliated with Threshold Choir International. The first Threshold Choir was established in 2000 in northern California, with subsequent local choirs opening nationwide and overseas. Our singing is a gift, although donations are accepted.

The all-volunteer choir may sing at long term care facilities, private homes, and hospicesponsored annual memorial services —places to which we are invited. Singers have traveled to northwestern Connecticut and nearby parts of Columbia County, New York. Most current members are from southern Berkshire County. Singers are vaccinated, wear masks, and adhere to COVID-19 protocols.

Some frequently asked questions.

Q: When will singers come?

A: We will arrange days and times with you or with a caregiver if visiting a private home. Otherwise, we will visit the care facility at times which avoid personal care and meals.

Dying is a process of letting go, and music and song can ease pain and can ease the journey. I

remember singing to one woman who had recently accepted hospice services. As we arrived on our first visit, the nurse was relieved to see us. She reported that Mary (not her name) had been crying since being admitted. We began singing.

“Quietly, quietly, we sing to you./Words of love, holding peace, we sing to you.” Her sobs lessened and the times of quiet between sobbing spells lengthened.

We continued with other songs. As we sang, “Easy, rest easy/ let every trouble drift away./ Easy, rest easy/Love enfolds you and holds you safe,” her crying stopped and she went to sleep.

Q: What kind of music will we sing?

A: Our music is comforting, reassuring, non-denominational music about love, peace, and caring. If you have a particular faith tradition and we know this, we may include a few songs you may know. Primarily, our songs are written by other bedside singers. Indeed, I have written several songs which are used at bedside.

We sing lullabies for the endof-life, offering reassurance, consolation, and peace. As you know, rhythm and beat are an innate part of the human condition from the time we’re in the womb. Music is a bridge to connect with someone. In fact, neuroscientists have shown that music lights up more parts of the brain than any other stimulus.

Q: What if I am not sure I want singing?

A: If you are not certain, members will visit on a ‘try us and see how you like us’ basis. We do find that after meeting and hearing us, listeners usually ask us to return.

It is an intimate experience when two or three choir members gather around a bedside, singing softly, and expressing gratitude to a person for all they’ve given in life. The music touches everyone within hearing—family, caregivers, facility staff. Our presence lets people know they are not forgotten, and they are

not alone.

Q: How do I request singers?

A: If you are receiving palliative or hospice care, tell your social worker you want the services of Threshold Choir. If you reside in a long-term care facility, let your recreation services staff know.

Please remember to inquire earlier rather than later so we may find singers whose schedules are compatible with yours. We do our best to accommodate requests.

For more information, email thresholdchoir9@gmail.com.

Andrew J. Puttick

L to R: Michelle Kuzia, Linda Bryce, Christine Zelehoski-Members of Berkshire Threshold Choir

Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

May 2023

This may prove intriguing to you. I am going to take a different approach and just tell you my feelings and trepidations, trying to capture the essence of what we do at Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. (Elder Services). I hope to inspire you to continue your support or to begin supporting us. Your contributions enable us to extend our services to more elders and disabled adults in our community.

I am concerned I will not articulate how important your support is. True to life stories are one way of showing the impact your donations have. Please read on.

A 100-year-old World War II veteran, his home decorated with military memorabilia, tends to his lovely yard and garden where he grows amazing tomatoes. Ten years ago, Elder Service’s Meals on Wheels Program began providing him healthy eating options. As he aged, he developed an excellent relationship with his personal care attendant (PCA) through our Home Care Program. He continues to live safely in his cherished home, still growing some of the best tomatoes in the county. It feels so right that this veteran at 100 is still enjoying his home.

A senior’s apartment building was destined to be condemned. She was reluctant to leave her home. Our Options Counseling Program helped identify and sort through her options for local housing. They first found her temporary shelter, transportation to spend daytime hours at the local Council on Aging (senior center), then assisted with her admission to a nursing home as her health declined. Her health improved and our team helped move her to stable housing in a supportive, safe environment and provided chore services to enable her to remain independent in her new home.

Elder Services is proud to have been a partner to her throughout those difficult times and to continue supporting her.

Our elders have so much to offer. When we can help them live day to day in a manner that gives them freedom and choices, we all benefit. Still it is so hard to articulate that feeling when people tell me how Elders Services’ guidance has supported them. They feel relief, empowerment and independence. When we help someone with our resources and knowledge, it benefits not only them, but also their family and the entire community. Words cannot adequately describe the emotion and the feeling of the gratitude of family members who so appreciate our help supporting their loved ones.

I hope I gave you some idea of how important your support is. I ask you to continue your support. Thank you for your contributions over the years. You are making a difference for all of us.

Frank Engels Board President P.S.

Besides cash donations, we need volunteers. One area in particular - the Ombudsman Program, needs volunteers to work with nursing home residents to resolve problems related to residents’ health, safety, welfare and rights. Training for this position is available. If interested, please call Caitlyn Harrington at (413) 499-0524.

Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. NUTRITION PROGRAM SENIOR COMMUNITY DINING CENTERS

The status and offerings of the Senior Community Dining Centers are likely to evolve. Please call for the latest update.

• Short-term recovery stays

• Physical, occupational & speech therapy

• Long-term, inpatient skilled care

• Respite stays

•

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

Since 1983 MOL ARI HealthCare has enjoyed providing our neighbors in Berkshire Count y with trusted, qualit y homecare. Working as your par tner, our staff will create a flexible care plan to fit your needs With MOL ARI you are assured that you and your care is our number one priorit y. MOL ARI is committed to providing the best possible solution for your home healthcare needs.

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BERKSHIRE COUNTY

Summer Safety for Seniors

by Kara Graziola

It’s finally summer! Warm temperatures and abundant sunshine! Time to get out of the house! Summer temperatures and sunshine, though, can lead to safety concerns. As we age, our bodies do not regulate temperature as well as when we were younger. Older adults do not sweat as much as younger adults and sweat is the body’s most important heat-regulating mechanism.

Here are some important things to keep in mind, so that you can enjoy your summer safely.

Stay Hydrated: Drink 8 or more glasses of water each day.

Know the Side-Effects of Medications: Some medications can cause drowsiness or sensitivity to sunlight.

Stay Cool: Go swimming, use a fan or air conditioning. If you don’t have air conditioning consider going somewhere that does such as the movies or a friend’s house. Contact your local Senior Center to ask about available cooling centers.

Stay Away: Limit your exposure to direct sunlight. Plan activities early in the morning or later in the day. The sun is strongest between 10am to 4pm.

Dress Appropriately: Wear light colored, loose fitting clothes in breathable fabrics like cotton. Light colors help reflect the sun.

Protect Your Skin and Eyes:

Wear a hat and sunglasses. Also, wear sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher and protects against UVA and UVB radiation.

Falls Prevention: Uneven patio pavers, outdoor rugs, slippery pool decks and sandy beaches can all cause seniors to lose their balance. Plus, some chronic conditions, like low blood pressure, can cause dizziness, leading to falls. Make sure to stay up to date with vision exams, hearing aids and walking devices. Keep yard and patio areas well lit. Ensure to have comfortable, wellfitting shoes.

Be a Good Neighbor: Check on your friends, family and neighbors to make sure they’re doing okay during the heat.

Know the early signs of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat stroke and heat exhaustion: Signs to look for may include disorientation, dry skin, excessive tiredness, headache, lethargy, nausea, a flushed face, high body temperature, rapid pulse, dizziness and confusion. Take immediate action if you feel any symptoms coming on.

Risk factors for heat-related illnesses include:

• Dehydration

• Age over 65

• Obesity

• Consuming alcohol in hot weather

• Having chronic heart or lung disease

Have fun and enjoy the summer!

What

is Juneteenth and Why is it So Important?

by Christine Thomson

Juneteenth, or June 19th, is a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Also called Emancipation Day, Juneteenth Independence Day, Freedom Day, and Black Independence Day, the name “Juneteenth” refers to the date of the holiday, combining the words “June” and “nineteenth.”

Juneteenth marks our country’s second Independence Day, and is one of the most important anniversaries in our nation’s history. Celebrated on the anniversary of the day that Texas residents finally learned that slavery had been abolished (June 19, 1865) and is a day of reflection, hope and purpose. Juneteenth’s historical legacy demonstrates the value of never giving up hope in uncertain times, and this message carries through today.

Although it has been long celebrated in the African American community, Juneteenth and its meaning remained largely unknown to most Americans and just recently became a Federal holiday in 2021.

In his comments announcing Juneteenth as a federal holiday, President Biden remarked “Let us all think of Juneteenth as a day to remember our extraordinary capacity to heal, to hope, and to emerge from our worst moments as a stronger, freer, and more just Nation. It is also a day to celebrate the power and resilience of Black Americans, who have endured

generations of oppression in their ongoing journey toward equality - in justice, dignity, rights and opportunity in America.” I believe that covers it nicely.

So finally, as a country, we celebrate Juneteenth in the United States, as a time to reflect on the ongoing consequence of slavery, and to promise ourselves to become part of the solution, not the problem. We will not fully heal as a nation until people of all races, nationalities and religions acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Only then can we make lasting improvements in healing our own citizens.

DID YOU KNOW?

- You should enable your devices to install updates automatically.

Updating your devices ensures that your devices are up to date with the latest features.

SelfDetermination

by Dean Lagrotteria

As we approach World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, I want to discuss another facet to Elder Protective Services that is not well known. The ideas of autonomy and self-determination. These terms are related to a person’s ability to make his or her own choices in life and to make decisions independently.

Berkshire Elder Protective Services, and all Elder Protective Services Programs in Massachusetts, have a mandate to provide protection. We assess concerns related to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, financial exploitation, neglect and self neglect for adults 60 and over.

Older adults and their families are often concerned when we become involved in an older adult’s life, fearing that we will take away their freedom to choose how they live. While our goal is to prevent, remedy and eliminate the effects of elder abuse, we are required to respect a person’s right to selfdetermination and autonomy.

The ideas of self-determination and autonomy have their roots in the French and American revolutions with their emphasis on justice, liberty and freedom from authoritarian rule. This refers to peoples’ or communities’ right to self-determination. In our culture, this has been expanded to encompass individual rights as well.

Summer With Our Pets

by Yvonne Borsody

It’s summertime–time to get outdoors, open windows, and best of all, go on vacation! We humans aren’t the only ones with a spring in our step on a beautiful summer day–our pets seem right there with us on that one! In this edition of Berkshire Senior, we’ll focus on making sure they stay safe during this active time of year, and can enjoy summer as much as we do.

Let’s start with our dogs. One of the endearing things about them is that they just want to be at our side, no matter what. That means we sometimes have to be the voice of reason and resist those pleading eyes when we are reaching for the car keys or putting on our running shoes. Because sometimes it is safer to leave them at home.

I remember one July day when I saw a man taking his daily run with his dog on its leash, keeping up with him, despite the midday heat in the blazing sun. Not only was it unhealthy for the owner, but he at least had running shoes on. All the while, his dog’s unprotected paw pads were running on the very hot, dark asphalt, while its tongue dangled from its mouth and its black fur absorbed the heat from the sun. And how often have we pulled into a store parking lot and heard a dog barking and panting inside a car with the windows down a couple of inches, as though that would keep the car cool. The windows may be cracked open a bit, but don’t be fooled--a short time in a car that is heating up can prove deadly. Or the other extreme—a dog hanging out of the car window that is rolled all the way down, prime for jumping out or being stolen. Did that dog really have to go along for an errand run? [If you do see a pet in distress in a car, let the store manager know or call local police. They can try to locate the owner or call an animal control officer to save the animal. There are now Good Samaritan laws that

protect people who intervene on an animal’s behalf.] Remember too, that many attractions such as theme parks, festivals and State parks or beaches do not allow pets. Don’t make the mistake of arriving at your destination, only to learn you cannot bring your dog along. On hot summer days, for their sake, leave them home! Better to enjoy that happy reunion when you arrive home again.

Now it’s time to think about the cats in our lives. The minute I open windows in my home, my cats jump up to sniff the outside air, watch the birds and chipmunks, and warm their fur in the sunshine. I make sure the mesh on the screens is made of metal rather than nylon mesh which tears or pushes out too easily. My cats also have an outdoor ‘Catio’—rhymes with patio--a safe outdoor enclosure attached to the house via a cat door. Catios are a very popular way to allow cats outdoor access without running loose. There are photos online of amazingly elaborate and creative catios— but whether it’s a simple, home-

stretch or break-free collar with small ID tag. A microchip is a good idea for both cats and dogs, as veterinarians and animal shelters can use microchip scanners to help reunite a stray or lost pet with its owner

3. Dogs should be kept on a leash when in public and on trails. This is the time of year when wildlife are raising their young, and a loose dog can harm or kill them, or become lost or injured when chasing after another animal. Dogs are also safest when tethered or in a fenced-in area when in their own yard

4. Keep your pets inside at night—even on warm summer nights if they want to stay outside

made design, or a fancy one custom built by a carpenter, your cats will love every moment of safe, outdoor time as they smell the scents of summer, watch the neighborhood squirrels, or just lounge in the fresh air. It’s a dangerous world out there for cats—cars, fleas, accidentally getting locked inside sheds or garages, predators, and even humans who wish them harm. Meanwhile, songbird populations are plummeting, so it’s more critical than ever that we keep our cats separate from wildlife— for the protection of all of the animals.

How to keep our pets safe this summer

1. Be sure they are up to date on vaccinations and tick/flea control, and have seen their veterinarian to address any health issues they may have

2. Have identification—dogs should always wear a reflective safety collar or walking harness with rabies tag and ID in case they get away from you; cats ideally should also wear either a

5. Exercise during the cooler times of day, and don’t forget that cats need interactive playtime with you and their toys to keep them from becoming bored

6. Keep extra water bowls around, especially for those dogs who have a tendency to knock their bowls over, especially while they are outside

7. Finally, clean up after your dog—it’s a courtesy—and also a law in most places—and it will promote goodwill with your neighbors as well. Also, by practicing good pet hygiene— and this includes cat litter box cleanup, it will discourage flies and parasites from taking hold. Remember too, that the use of lawn or weed chemicals can be highly toxic to pets and other animals, birds and our beneficial insects.

Summertime is way too short in this part of the country— let’s enjoy every moment of this special time of year with our furry companions.

Yvonne Borsody is a Berkshire resident specializing in animal rescue and adoption. She has a special interest in senior and animal advocacy, and quality of life issues for both.

Find and circle all of the summer words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell an additional summer item.

Thank You To Our Donors:

The following donations were received between March 1, 2023 and April 30, 2023. Donations received on or after April 30, 2023 will appear in the next issue of Berkshire Senior.

Memorial Donations

In Memory of: William Broderick

Katherine Broderick

In Memory of: Gertrude Bock

Helen Hainsworth

Robert Hainsworth

In Memory of: Richard Coleman, Sr.

Helen Austin

Shirley Lyon

Edward and Susan Paquette

In Memory of: Raymond Kolodziej

Kari Kristensen

In Memory of: Nancy Leone

Donna Baker

In Memory of: Elinor Long

John and Jane Allen

Laurence and Sharon Beaudoin

John and Linda Dilego

Kathleen Duguay

Martha Flinter

Edward and Judith Noel

Raymond and Barbara Ranzoni

Joseph and Colleen Rossi

John Saskiewicz

Nils and Judith Sjulander

West Oil Company, Inc.

Jonathan Wexle

In Memory of: Josephine Michalek

Rose Laurin

In Memory of: Helen Reilly

Larry and Pam Bell

James and Nancy Piscioneri

Kirsten Rocca

In Memory of: Laura Taylor

William and Charlene Tattersall

Steven and Judith Taylor

Julia Taylor

John and Loisann Vittone

Brian and Lou Ann Walter

Seth and Laura Zepka

Berkshire Senior Television

Elder Independence Donations

Patricia Colvin

Suzanne Crerar

Ellen Kenwood

Richard Kurek

Jo Ann Lancaster

John Mazurkiewicz

Paul and Sandra Merlino

Alexander and Judith Nardacci

Barbara Noyes

Margaret O’Connor

Jane Ryan

Elliott and Grace Snyder

Nancy Torrico

Edward and Linda Van Dyke

General Donations

Jennifer Brennan

Gilbert and Norma d’Oliveira

William and Yvonne Elder

Ellen Leitch

Antonio and Margaret Pagliarulo

Lawrence and Alice Spatz

Stephen and Jodi St. Peter

Ronald and Martha Stewart

Judith Trask

Michael Williams

Meals on Wheels Donations

Laura Murphy

Tamar Schrager

Ms. Redding Stockbridge Housing Authority

Friend Stop & Shop Bloomin’ 4

Good Program

Stefanie Weber

SHINE Donations

Cynthia Armstrong

Currently airing on PCTV, Channel 1301 Access Pittsfield

Currently airing on PCTV Channel 1301 Access Pittsfield

Broadcast schedule:

Broadcast schedule:

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

PCTV channel 1301

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

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.

ESBCI staff discuss volunteerism and volunteer opportunities

Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restricting their activities. A MATTER OF BALANCE is an award -winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels.

This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls.

YOU WILL LEARN TO:

 view falls as controllable

 set goals for increasing activity

 make changes to reduce fall risks at home

 exercise to increase strength and balance

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

 anyone concerned about falls

 anyone interested in improving balance, flexibility and strength

 anyone who has fallen in the past

 anyone who has restricted activities because of falling concerns

Please contact Elder Services of Berkshire County for information on upcoming classes.

413-499-0524

Ext. 129 Classes are 2 hours each 2x per week for 4 weeks; or 1x per week for 8 weeks

What people say about A Matter of Balance

"A Matter of Balance was most helpful - it made me more aware of what can be done to ensure safety at home. The class provided a definite time each week to meet and discuss concerns with others. I wish we had even more exercise activities at each class. Great to share and learn !"