March 2023 Dartmouth Council on Aging - Maria Connor Center for Active Living - 628 Dar tmouth St., Dar tmouth MA - Town of Dartmouth
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
March 2023 Dartmouth Council on Aging cover courtesy Oscar Sutton at unsplash.com Maria Connor Center for Active Living - 628 Dar tmouth St., Dar tmouth MA
2
A Message from our Director
Well…normally we would say
It’s that time of year!
to the month of March…”In Spring forward!
like a lion out like a Lamb”… Daylight savings starts on
but after the extremely mild March 12th.
winter we have no idea what
this month holds. I have my
fingers crossed for a mild end to the winter and
a sunny and warm Spring! Whether there is
snow on the ground or the sun is shining…the
Center has plenty of programs to offer! Grab a
friend and take part in one of our exercise
classes or learn something new in one of the
many exciting programs being offered this
month. We look forward to seeing you!! Camden Marcotte DPT, NSC of Bay State
Physical Therapy, spoke to a large audience last
month during his Systems of Balance presentation.
Amy Watch for Bay State’s next informational workshop
on Joint Replacements next month.
Preregistration opens in March Tax Reminder
Monday, April 3rd
10 -11:30 am
STORIES COME FROM THE
MOST AMAZING PLACES!
If you’ve lived a life,
you have stories to share!
This fun and friendly
workshop will help
uncover interesting
stories from your life.
Using prompts and
interesting activities,
award-winning
storytellers Karen Chace
There are generations of and Andrea Lovett will
children who have no concept guide you through the
of what is was like to grow up process of finding those
in the 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, jewels that deserve to be
70’s and 80’s… remembered.
Come join us! Preregistration required -
begins March 13 for
Dartmouth residents and
March 20th for nonresidents.
3
A Message from our Programming Coordinator
Although winter seems to want to hang on, and the trouble shooting from the Local Humane Society and
weather doesn’t always feel like it, spring has arrived. Dartmouth Animal Control. Art for Your Mind will
We can all finally emerge from the hibernation that the feature an “Appreciating Animals in Art” presentation at
northeast winter weather forces. It is time for optimism the end of the month, and don’t miss our Movie pic
and new beginnings! “Rescued by Ruby”, the true story about man and his
Early in March, there will be an opportunity to review the “best friend.”
Medicare Advantage Plan and other Medicare options Watch for more Art popping up on the 24th when you can
with Christie Rexford, SHINE Program Regional take part in a fun, creative clay project! Due to many
Director. The ability to switch Medicare plans will end requests, another two-part class on the IPhone has been
March 31st! Join us this month for our Single Senior scheduled in the coming weeks and Android Classes will
Supper evening, a Cooking Demonstration and a festive be offered at a future date.
St. Patty’s Day celebration. We also will be celebrating There is so much to do and learn!
our four legged friends as well, with education and
This Month’s Programming continued
Technology Series
2-Part iPhone
APDA MA Dartmouth Workshop
Parkinson’s Support Group Friday, March 10th 9-11am
2nd Thursday of the Month, 1– 2:30pm
Dates: Mar 9, Apr 13, May 11, Jun 8 & Friday, March 17th 9-11am
This group is designed for people with In these sessions you will get an introduction to
Parkinson’s and their care partners. your iPhone, including care and charging,
connecting to WIFI, the operating system and
Contact Donna Valente at 617-899-1892 or updating; using email, the control panel, airplane
davalente@comcast.net for questions about the mode, managing notifications, and checking
group and to register. storage; and using emergency SOS and basic
This group is located at the Center. gestures (finger swiping and security)
Walk-ins are welcome! This is a “hands on” class, designed with the
More information is available about the MA novice in mind. You will be required to supply
chapter of the ADPA, is available at: your own phone.
https://www.apdaparkinson.org/community/ Maximum number of participants per class: 15
massachusetts/ Cost $5/workshop. Preregistration is required.
T his Month’s Programming
Medicare Advantage Plans
Wednesday, March 8th at 1pm
Dinner Party
Monday, March 13th at 12 noon
Join us for a traditional
St Patty’s dinner of
Corned Beef & Cabbage
music by
Are you a Medicare Advantage Member? If so,
you have an opportunity to change your plan the Tony Martin Trio
between January 1st and March 31st. Would you Cost: $15.
like to know more about Medicare Advantage Preregistration required; opens for
plans and how they work?
Christie Rexford, SHINE Program Regional Dartmouth residents: March 1st,
Director will be here on March 8th, 2023 at 1pm nonresidents: March 7th
to explain the Medicare Advantage program and
answer your questions. Preregistration required.
vecteezy_19019207
4
This Month’s Programming continued This Month’s Programming continued
Clay Cacti
Pet Preparedness & Succulent Sculptures
Thursday, March 16th at 1pm
Friday, March 24th 10:30-12:00
Dartmouth Animal Control You won't have to worry about
Do you worry about your pet should you need to killing these adorable potted desert
go to the hospital unexpectedly or be away for dwellers! Sculpt a grouping of cacti
an extended period of time? Join and succulents with air dry clay.
Sandra Gosselin, Dartmouth Animal Control We will show you how to make
supervisor, for a discussion and self-help check the pots, the cacti and
list to ease this transition for you and your pet. succulents, and how to finish
them with acrylic paint.
Humane Society and Shelter South Coast Please wear you painting clothes.
Melinda Ventura, Humane Society Director, will Cost is $5.00.
provide us with an overview of some of the local Preregistration is Required - begins March 1st for Dartmouth
Humane Society’s services and programs. Free residents and March 7th for nonresidents.
pet sweaters and shelter literature will be
available. The discussion will include:
Pet Food Pantry
Rabies clinic COFFEE
Boarding
Run away animals with a
COP
Tuesday, March 28th from 2-3pm
Join Scott Affonce, your neighborhood police
officer, for a cup of coffee.
This is a great opportunity to ask questions,
designed by Freepik
share your concerns and learn about the police
Free. Preregistration is required. department’s work in town.
Walk ins are welcome!
Cooking Demo
Ruby
with
Chef Tabitha Rodgers RESCUED BY
Thursday March 23rd at 1pm
Wednesday,
Join Chef Tabitha Rodgers March 29th
from
The Residence at at 1pm
Cedar Dell Senior Living
for a
cooking demonstration.
She will be preparing an easy, delicious,
no-bake Italian dish called
Creamy Tuscan Chicken.
A boxed dessert is included.
Free! Preregistration is required.
Preregistration is required.
5
This Month’s Programming continued Ongoing Programming continued
Strength & Flex with Larry Bigos
Mondays & Thursdays 9 -10am $2. / class
Improve your strength, muscle, and flexibility with a
full body routine using hand weights. This modified
group class is a fit for all. Bring hand weights if you
Thursday, March 30th at 1pm have them. Walk ins are welcome.
Osteo Exercise
Mondays at 10:15, Fridays at 10am
Osteo Exercise: balance and muscle
strengthening for women and men.
Exercising with weights stimulates the
growth of bones and helps halt bone loss
Preregistration is required. and prevent bone fractures. It trims and
tightens muscles and improves flexibility.
Much of the class is done seated. Bring your hand
weights. Free. Walk ins are welcome.
Ongoing Programming Dance for PD
Mondays 10:30- 11:30 (for Parkinson’s Disease)
C o f f e e Ho u r
Tuesdays &Thursdays 9:15 - 10:30am
Drop in for our
coffee hour and
chat with old friends
and meet some new
ones!
The Dance for PD® classes are an artistic activity
Enjoy a fresh that incorporates physical exercise, cognitive tasks,
brewed coffee, social interactions, music, and expression in
baked good and enjoyable, stimulating and creative. Registration is
fruit. open now. FREE. Call the Center for details. Led by
Transportation for coffee hour and lunch is available Rachel Balaban, area Coordinator for Dance for PD® .
on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call Angela (ext 3301) to
sign up.
If you would like to sponsor our coffee hour,
Rel a x wi th Ava Mondays 11:30-12:30
please call Nancy at the Center. Petting a therapy dog can reduce your
heart rate, blood pressure, stress and feelings
of anxiety.
- - - Game Players - - - Ava is from the Service Dog Project.
She accompanies Cindy each week
Billiards - Monday-Friday 9-11:30am to the Center. The Project donates
Creatively trained Great Danes to
Bridge - Mondays 12-3pm. veterans, first responders, and the
Call the Center for Information.
mobility impaired.
Cribbage - Tuesdays & Wednesdays
8:30-10:30am. Open for players. You can find more information
Mahjong - Fridays 1-3pm. Bring your own tiles. here: https://www.servicedogproject.org/
meet-the-danes.
6
Ongoing Programming continued Ongoing Programming continued
Everybody’s Book Club Gentle Yoga with Vickie Smith, Yoga 101
Monday, March 13th at 1pm Tuesdays 11:30 –12:30pm
This monthly group meets on the 2nd The focus of this class is on
Monday of the month at 1pm at the inviting flexibility with joint
Center. Come join us! lubrication, mobility, graceful
The book pick for this month is movement, and stretching,
‘The Mystery of Mrs. Christie’ by with classical yoga poses to
Marie Benedict. help build strength and
balance in body and mind. Appropriate for all
levels. Cost: $5. Walk-Ins are Welcome!
Tai Chi w/ Joe Rebelo Tuesdays 9-10
Register for 8 week session. ($30/ 8 wks) Chair Massage with Linda
There is growing evidence that this mind-body
practice has value in treating and preventing many Every Tuesday from 11:30 - 1:30pm
health problems. Try 1st class free. by appointment, $2. B
Come and find relaxation and balance through
massage. Licensed Massage Therapist, Linda Amaral
Vasconcelos will be available by appointment for
10 minute chair massages. Linda has been a
practicing Massage therapist for over 20 years.
CHAIR YOGA for PD Tuesdays 1 - 2pm
For PEOPLE
with
PARKINSONS
Open Studio Art Class $75 for 6 sessions
with Christine Cummings
This program includes functionally based exercises -
Tuesdays from 9:30 -12pm seated and standing, selected yoga postures and
This is an opportunity to work on breathing exercises to address the early symptoms
your own projects in a pleasant, well of Parkinson’s Disease.
lit space with other artists and get For more information contact Nancy at the Center
or Nanci Winterhalter at nanciwinterhalter@gmail.com.
instruction on an as needed basis.
Students must supply their own
materials. Jam
Call the Center for information. Cost: $10. Tuesdays 1 –2:45pm
Walk-ins are Welcome.
Guided Meditation with Lynda
Tuesdays 10:15 -11am Do you love music, like singing or do you play an
This is a step-by-step class that is instrument? This informal group will meet weekly to
great for those who are looking for share songs, sounds and stories. Bring a friend and
potential new ways to release make some new ones. Free. Walk ins are welcome.
tension and stress in the mind and
body.
Chairs are available. Bring a pillow Single Senior Supper Club
or blanket for comfort if you wish. 1st Tuesday of every month 4- 6pm
Free. Walk-ins are welcome. Dinner, Dessert and Raffle. Cost: $5.
Preregistration is required. Preregistration begins
the 13th of the previous month for Dartmouth
ZUMBA GOLD with Michelle residents and the 20th for nonresidents.
Tuesdays 10:30 - 11:30 $8 / class
Zumba Gold recreates the original moves of Zumba,
but at a lower-intensity. The easy-to-follow
choreography focuses on balance, range of motion
and coordination. For beginners, Michelle offers
modifications throughout the class!
7
Ongoing Programming continued Ongoing Programming continued
Body Awareness & Adaptability Sewing for Charity T hursdays at 10am
with Cam Bergeron Join this wonderful longstanding group as they cut,
sew, and create clothing and goods to send to the
Wednesdays 9:30- 10:15 & children of Haiti.
Fridays 11:15-12:00 $2. / class
Exercise physiologist, Cam Bergeron, teaches
participants proper body mechanics and gives
them the knowledge needed to properly move to
eliminate the risks of falls. Walk-Ins Welcome.
French Conversation & Culture We need cutters and stitchers. Contact Nancy.
Wednesdays at 10am
Bonjour and Bievenue to French
Conversation and Culture! Come
on in and spend a light-hearted Restorative Yoga with Lynda
and non-threatening hour in the Thursdays at 10:30, Cost: $5.
world of French with retired French This yoga class will help you stretch and relax. You
professor Suzanne Pelletier. Free. will use props to help support your body and allow
Walk-Ins are Welcome! you to comfortably hold each pose for an extended
period of time. Lynda will assist and gently guide you
through each pose, on and off the ground. We supply
the props, but you will need to bring your own yoga
Pound by Pound mat. Suggestion: thicker yoga mat with more padding.
Preregistration is required.
Every Wednesday at 10:15am Only 8 spots available per class.
If you’re looking for motivation
and new ideas, Pound by Pound is Veteran's Corner
a support group for people eager
to adopt healthy lifestyles and Meets the 1st Friday
eating habits. We offer weekly private weigh-in of the month at 9am
and monthly dietician and guest visits for
education. Contact Nancy for more information. Join Matt Brouillette,
Dartmouth’s Veteran Service Officer at 9am on the
first Friday of every month for a casual gathering of
SPEAKERS: area veterans. Coffee and Danish will be offered.
March 22nd: Dietitian, Stephanie Bouley Matt’s office is located at the Center.
March 29th: Dietitian, Barbara Canuel Contact Matt at 508-910-1818.
Resistance Bands with Larry Bigos
Wednesdays at 1pm, $2. / class
Resistance bands are a versatile and
efficient form of exercise. They are soft on
the joints and can be modified for anyone.
This class will include a stretching and
balance component. Bring your own bands
if you wish. Walk-Ins are Welcome! Walk-Ins are Welcome! Transportation available.
Knitting for Charity Thursdays at 9am Line Dancing Fridays 1 - 2pm, Cost: $3.
Do you enjoy knitting or crocheting? Let professional dancer, Kristina Hernandez guide you
Join the group and create handmade items that will through different line dances to a variety of genres of
be distributed through local charities and music. This is a fun form of exercise and a way to
organizations to those in need. Walk-Ins welcome! connect with others. No experience required.
Walk-Ins are Welcome!
8
Clinics at the Center Support Groups at the Center
Dental Clinic: April 14th B Alzheimer's Support
with Visiting Dental Hygienists, Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday 2:45- 4pm
Andrea Read & Teresa Simison. Call Carolyn Greany at 508-304-4587
Call 508-827-6725 to schedule. for more information.
This professionally led group is for caregiver’s and
Hearing Evaluations & B their care partners. Please contact Carolyn Greany,
Hearing Aid Checks the trained facilitator of the group, prior to
with At Home Healthcare attending at 508-304-4587.
3rd Thursday of the month 10-12 noon For online support go to Alzheimer’s Connected at
by appointment.
Call the Center to schedule. https://www.alzconnected.org .
This is a free online community where you can find advice
Legal - Elder Law Consult B and support from others who affected by Alzheimer’s or
with Atty Brandon Walecka dementia. 24/7 Alzheimer’s Helpline: 1-800-272-3900
2nd Thursday of the month from
10- 11am by appointment.
Call the Center to schedule. Diabetes Wellness Support Group
Last Wednesday of the month
in person at 9am
Legal - SCCLS Clinic B
English, Spanish, Portuguese. Join the group for support,
education and encouragement.
Next Clinic: April 13th, 2023 9:30-11:30 This group is led by Patricia Zukowski.
SCCLS (South Counties Legal Services) will Walk-Ins Welcome.
provide by appointment assistance in the
following areas: public housing, social security,
SSI, housing evictions, and health insurance.
Call the Center to schedule. Widowed Persons Support in person
Every 1st & 3rd Thursday
Legal - Justice Bridge B Two sessions: 8:30-10:00 & 10:30-12:00
last Wednesday of every month The Widowed Persons Program (WPP) is
2-3pm by appointment open to widowed persons of all ages who
Call the Center to schedule. are going through the grieving process.
It includes group sessions, a telephone
Pain Screenings with Marissa Gill B service, a referral service, socials, and a
newsletter.
and her staff at Bay State Physical
3rd Thursday of the month 1- 2pm by Please call Jane Rocha, new WPP Director at
appointment. 508-999-3255 for more information.
Call the Center to schedule.
A Pain screening is a private 15 minute
assessment performed by a licensed physical Caregiver Support
therapist that will include recommended steps
In person, 1st Thursday
you can take toward improvement.
of the month from 1-2:30 pm
Join Coastline in partnership with the Dartmouth
Podiatry Clinic B Council on Aging for the only family Caregiver
first Thursday and last Tuesday Support Group in the surrounding area!
of every month by appointment
Call the Center to schedule. For more information please contact
Stephanie Gibson at 744-510-5209
SHINE - help with B
Medicare Insurance
Call the Center to schedule Blood Pressure Screening
an appointment with 2nd Thursday & last Tuesday
Peggy or Ginny, our SHINE volunteers, if you of the month from 9-11am
have any questions regarding your Medicare
by Dartmouth Public Health Nurse,
coverage, or to see if you qualify for
Maura Reimer, RN BSN
assistance with Medicare expenses.
9
March 2023 Programming at a Glance
The DCOA is a meal site for the Regional Nutritional Program. Lunch is served Monday - Friday from 11:30-12:30.
Program Registration 8:30-10:30 Cribbage 1 8:30-12 Widowed 2 9-11:30 Billiards 3
Preregistration is required for most of our Monthly 9-11:30 Billiards Persons (see p8) 9am Veteran’s Corner
Programming and some of our Ongoing Programming. 9am Beginner UKE 9am Knit for Charity 10am Osteo Exercise
9:30-10:15 9am Strength & Flex $2. 11:15-12 Cam’s Body $2.
The general rule is that Dartmouth residents can 9-11:30 Billiards
preregister beginning the 1st program day of the Cam’s Body $2. 1-2pm Line Dancing $3.
10am French (see p7) 9:15-10:30 Coffee Hour 1-3pm Mahjong
month and non-residents can register beginning the
5th program day of the month. For March, these 10:15 Pound by Pound 10am Sewing for Charity
dates are: 11am UKE Advanced 10:30 Restorative Yoga $5.
Beginner 1-2:30 Caregiver Support
Dartmouth residents: March1st
non-residents: March 7th 1pm Resistance Bnds $2. Podiatry Clinic by Appt B
Senior Supper non-residents: March 20th
9-11 Hand Quilting 6 8:30-10:30 Cribbage 7 8:30-10:30 Cribbage 8 9am Knit for Charity 9 9-11:30 Billiards 10
9-11:30 Billiards 9-11:30 Billiards 9-11:30 Billiards 9am Strength & Flex $2. 9-11 Tech Series -
9am Strength & Flex $2. 9-10 Tai Chi ($30/8wks) 9am Beginner UKE 9-11:30 Billiards iPhone 2-part Wkshp $5.
10:15 Osteo Exercise 9:15-10:30 Coffee Hour 9:30-10:15 9:15-10:30 Coffee Hour 10am Osteo Exercise
9:30-12 Art Studio $10. Cam’s Body $2. 9-11 BLOOD PRESSURE 11:15-12 Cam’s Body $2.
10:30 Dance for PD 10am French (see p7) 10am Sewing for Charity
10:15-11 Meditation 1-2pm Line Dancing $3.
10:30 Zumba Gold $8. 10:15 Pound by Pound 10-11 by Appt Elder Law
11:30 Relax with Ava 11am UKE Advanced Consultation B 1-3pm Mahjong
11:30 Gentle Yoga $5.
12-3pm Bridge Beginner 10:30 Restorative Yoga $5.
11:30 Chair Massage $2. B
1pm Chair Yoga for PD 1pm Resistance Bnds $2. 1-2:30pm Parkinsons
1-2:45pm Acoustic Jam 1pm Medicare Advantage Support (see p2)
4-6pm Supper Club Plans
9-11 Hand Quilting 8:30-10:30 Cribbage 14
13 8:30-10:30 Cribbage 15 8:30-12 Widowed 16 9-11:30 Billiards 17
9-11:30 Billiards 9-11:30 Billiards 9-11:30 Billiards Persons (See p8) 9-11 Tech Series cont.
9am Strength & Flex $2.9-10 Tai Chi ($30/8wks) 9am Beginner UKE 9am Knit for Charity iPhone 2-part Wkshp
10:15 Osteo Exercise 9:15-10:30 Coffee Hour 9:30-10:15 9am Strength & Flex $2. 10am Osteo Exercise
9:30-12 Art Studio $10. Cam’s Body $2. 9-11:30 Billiards 11:15-12 Cam’s Body $2.
10:30 Dance for PD 9:15-10:30 Coffee Hour
12-3pm Bridge 10:15-11 Meditation 10am French (see p7) 1-2pm Line Dancing $3.
10:30 Zumba Gold $8 10:15 Pound by Pound 10am Sewing for Charity
11:30 Relax with Ava 10-12 Hearing Clinic B 1-3pm Mahjong
11:30 Gentle Yoga $5. 11am UKE Advanced
12 noon St Patrick’s Day
11:30—————–— $2. B
Chair Massagecanceled 10:30 Restorative Yoga $5.
Beginner
Dinner Party $15.
1pm Chair Yoga for PD 1pm Resistance Bnds $2 1pm Pain Screening B
1pm Book Club (see p6) 1-2:45pm Acoustic Jam 1pm Pet Preparedness
2:45-4pm Alzheimer’s
9-11 Hand Quilting 27 8:30-10:30 Cribbage 21 8:30-10:30 Cribbage 22 9am Knit for Charity 23 9-11:30 Billiards 24
9-11:30 Billiards 9-11:30 Billiards 9-11:30 Billiards 9am Strength & Flex $2. 10am Osteo Exercise
9am Strength & Flex $2. 9-10 Tai Chi ($30/8wks) 9:30-10:15 9-11:30 Billiards 10:30 Clay Cacti &
9:15-10:30 Coffee Hour Cam’s Body $2. 9:15-10:30 Coffee Hour
10:15 Osteo Exercise 9:30-12 Art Studio $10. Succulent Sculptures $5.
10:30 Dance for PD 10am French (see p7) 10am Sewing for Charity
10:15-11—————
Meditation 10:15 Pound by Pound 11:15-12 Cam’s Body $2.
11:30 Relax with Ava canceled —————–—
10:30 Restorative Yoga $5.
10:30 Zumba Gold $8 1pm Resistance Bnds $2 canceled 1-2pm Line Dancing $3.
12-3pm Bridge 11:30 Gentle Yoga $5. 1pm Cooking Demo with 1-3pm Mahjong
The Cedar Dell
11:30 —————–— $2. B
Chair Massagecanceled
1pm Chair Yoga for PD
1-2:45pm Acoustic Jam
9-11 Hand Quilting 20 8:30-10:30 Cribbage 28 8:30-10:30 Cribbage 29 9am Knit for Charity 30
9-11:30 Billiards 9am Diabetes Wellness 9am Strength & Flex $2.
9-11:30 Billiards 9-10 Tai Chi ($30/8wks)
9am Strength & Flex $2. 9:15-10:30 Coffee Hour 9-11:30 Billiards 9-11:30 Billiards
9:30-10:15 9:15-10:30 Coffee Hour
10:15 Osteo Exercise 9:30-12 Art Studio $10. Cam’s Body $2. If you have any
10:30 Dance for PD 9-11 BLOOD PRESSURE 10am French (see p7) 10am Sewing for Charity
10:15-11 Meditation 10:30 Restorative Yoga $5. questions or suggestions
11:30 Relax with Ava 10:30 Zumba Gold $8 10:15 Pound by Pound
12-3pm Bridge 1pm Art for your Mind - about programming,
11:30 Gentle Yoga $5. 1pm MOVIE -
Appreciating Animals please contact
Chair Massage $2. B
11:30—————–— Rescued by Ruby
in Art
canceled 1pm Resistance Bnds $2 Nancy Miller,
1pm Chair Yoga for PD
1-2:45pm Acoustic Jam 2-3pm Justice Bridge B Program Coordinator at
2 - 3pm Coffee with a Cop 508-999-4717
2:45-4pm Alzheimer’s ext 3305
Podiatry Clinic by Appt B
10
March Lunch Menu
Lunch is served at the Center Monday thru Friday from 11:30 to 12:30
www.coastline.org11
Outreach and Engagement News
Matthew Dansereau Money Saving Ideas
Engagement / Rent, food, and utilities have all increased in
Outreach the past year. Here are a few ideas to help
Coordinator mitigate some of those cost increases:
Groceries: It matters where you shop.
(508) 999-4717 x3312 Places like Market Basket, Aldi, Price-Rite
and Seabra can save you 30% - 40% per
trip. Another way to save money is through
America Red Cross Home Fire Campaign Food Pantries. There are 25 - 30 Food
Pantries in the greater New Bedford Area.
The leading cause of death from disasters in Many give out high quality meat and fresh
produce. Most of them do not have an
the United States is home fires. The income qualification. If you would like a list
American Red Cross Home Fire Campaign of local Pantries, see me, Matt at the Center.
will install free smoke and CO2 alarms in Entertainment: One of biggest money
your home. There is no income qualification. saving things you can do, is “cut the cord”.
To access this service call (800)564-1234 or Get rid of your cable or satellite provider.
you can request online at https:// You will save an average of $35 a month
www.redcross.org/local/massachusetts/about- with basic internet and streaming television
us/our-work/home-fire-campaign.html over the basic introductory cable or satellite
plan. You can also purchase your own
modem. Don’t pay the monthly fee to rent
one from Comcast. Watch for a how to “Cut
SNAP FRAUD the Cord” workshop in April at the COA!
DTA is currently dealing with a lot of fraud Communication: If you are under certain
with the SNAP program. Here are some income guidelines, Lifeline, and the
quick things to know to protect your benefit Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), are
1. Never ever give out personal two programs you can benefit from. Lifeline
provides a free smart phone with free
information. DTA will never ask for
calling, text and data, the ACP reduces your
personal information when they text, call, internet cost by $30 per month. Additionally,
or email. companies like Consumer Cellular offer
2. Change your PIN. It is suggested you very low cost cell phone plans.
change your PIN monthly.
3. Never give anyone access to your DTA Utilities: Community Electricity Aggregates
Connect account. (CEA). The current rate for local CEAs is 10
4. If you think your account has been cents per watt, as I highlighted last month.
compromised contact DTA immediately. The COA can assist you with applying.
SNAP Recertification and MassHealth Renewals
With the COVID Emergency, MassHealth renewals and SNAP recertifications were put on hold. As
the emergency comes to an end, the state is going to be starting these up again: MassHealth is annual
and SNAP is every two years. MassHealth began recertifications on Feb 1st. They will be sending out
a blue envelope. You can also do the renewal process online if you prefer. More information on that
can be found on the mass.gov website.
SNAP is beginning recertifications this summer. They will send you a letter with instructions 3
months prior to their deadline. You can also do recertifications here at the COA.In-Home Senior Care
If home is where the heart is...
Then keeping you there is a goal that makes us proud.
Medication Reminders
Bathing & Dressing
Grooming & Hygiene
Toileting/Incontinence Care
Nutrition & Hydration
Companionship
Laundry
Shopping
Fall Prevention
Meal Preparation
Transportation
And More!
Call Today to Schedule a Complimentary Care Consultation!
(P): 508-946-2200 | www.cranberryhomecare.com
Dartmouth St, So Dartmouth
Patricia Bloom-McDonald, Attorney-at-Law SCS Medicaid Senior Services, LLC
Your Attorney for Life’s Planning Silvia C. Sales, Consultant
Call for a complimentary consultation: 8 Crescent Drive
508-646-9888 No. Dartmouth, MA 02747
1105 State Road, P.O. Box 858, Westport, MA
Satellite Office 774-328-7057
781-713-4709 • Canton, MA Estate Planning • Elder Law silvia@scsmhservices.com
www.McBloomLaw.com Probate
https://scsmedicaidseniorservices.business.site/
Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.lpicommunities.com Dartmouth Council on Aging, Dartmouth 06-5080Legal Topics with Brandon C. Walecka, Esq. 13
Brandon C Walecka, Esq.
Walecka Law, P.C.
774-203-9003
Brandon@WaleckaLaw.com
Common Misconceptions about Your Last Will & Testament
Before I discuss the common misconceptions that Also, sometimes the client wishes to establish a
many of my clients have about their Last Will & testamentary (within the Will) special needs trust for
Testament, we should ask, “What is a Last Will and the benefit of a disabled person who is receiving, or
Testament?” may in the future receive, needs-based government
benefits. Assets held by a special needs trust created
The Last Will and Testament is a document in which
by a Will generally are not considered to be owned by
you designate who will receive your property after
the beneficiary of the trust. Therefore, if the
your death. It is used by the Probate Court to transfer
beneficiary of the trust applies for Medicaid/
property that is owned in your name alone at your
MassHealth the trust assets will not count.
death to your heirs. In most Wills, you will name a
person called a “Personal Representative” (formerly 3. The Will Distributes All of the Decedent’s Assets.
executor/trix) who will bear the responsibility for The Last Will and Testament distributes Probate
administering your estate. The personal assets only. A Probate asset is an asset that was held
representative works with your lawyer and the solely in the name of the deceased person. For
Probate Court to transfer your property to your heirs. example, a bank account owned in your name
individually, or a retirement plan or life insurance
Often when I meet with clients for planning, they have
policy without a named beneficiary. Often clients
several misconceptions about what a Will can and
mistakenly believe their goal of equally distributing
cannot do regarding their goals. Below I hope to
their assets upon their death will be accomplished
eliminate some of these misconceptions and help
through the Will, when in actuality an improper
emphasize the importance of proper estate planning.
beneficiary designation could supersede the Will
1. A Will Avoids Probate. causing unequal distributions to your beneficiaries.
While meeting with a prospective client, I often hear,
4. Only Older People Need a Will.
“I already have a Will, so I don’t have to worry about
As an attorney, I know proper estate planning is
Probate, right?” That is wrong. A Will is Probate. As
especially important. If you are over age 18 and are of
described above, to execute the wishes expressed in
sound mind, you should execute foundational estate
your Last Will and Testament, the document must be
planning documents, including a Will. Particularly, you
probated. This means the Personal Representative
should have a Will if: a) you have minor children, b)
must submit the Will, along with a petition, to a judge
you have personal property or family heirlooms that
for approval. This is the Probate process. The timeline
you want a specific person to receive at the time of
for submitting the Probate petition, receiving authority
your death, c) you are married and own property
from the court, filing an inventory of assets within the
jointly, d) you have an unusual distribution scheme in
estate, liquidating assets, selling property, and finally
mind after you pass away, and e) you were married
closing the estate could take 12 to 15 months, if not
previously and have children of a previous marriage.
longer. Often, the cost and delay of probate can be
avoided through some basic estate planning Want to learn more about what benefit a Will can offer
techniques such as proper beneficiary designations you? Consider scheduling a consultation with a
or a trust. qualified estate planning attorney who can help.
2. There is No Benefit to Probate.
Despite the cost and delay of the probate process,
discussed above, sometimes an individual may want The information contained in this article is not
his or her estate to go through probate. Why? intended to make you an expert on estate planning
nor is this article intended to replace the need for
Well, perhaps the individual has minor children and the advice of a professional. Rather, this article is
should both spouses die simultaneously, they want simply intended to provide a basic understanding
their minor children’s inheritance to be held in a trust of why estate planning is important for everybody
until they reach the age of 25. Also, they want to and a basic understanding of some of the more
name within their Wills someone who will raise and common estate planning tools. This article does
care of their minor children in their place (called a not constitute legal advice.
Guardian).Scott M. Corin, M.D. • Marc P. Wladis, M.D.
Kameran Lashkari, M.D. • Paul J. Botelho. M.D.
500 Faunce Corner Road, Suite 110 • N. Dartmouth, MA
508-717-0270
PROJECT INDEPENDENCE
ADULT DAY SERVICES JOHN T. VEALE, D.M.D., M.P.H.
PETER G. VEALE, D.M.D.
• Medical Monitoring by RN
• Bilingual Staff • Free Visit
• Transportation • New Friends
• Nutritious Meals
• Professional Staff
• Full Activity Schedule
• Safe Environment General Dentistry Call us Today!
OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE 508-999-6400
WE FOLLOW CDC AND DPH COVID GUIDANCE. 45 Slocum Road In-Home Services | Support Services
250 Elm Street, New Bedford
508-997-1441 • www.piadhc.org Dartmouth, MA 02747 Meals | Employment Training
863 Belleville Ave., New Bedford, MA 02745
508-999-3038
Caregivers grant funded by Title IIIE of the
Older Americans Act. sponsored by CESI Telephone: www.coastlinenb.org
Get a
FREE Quote
Our experts at
FULL-SERVICE CLEAN-OUT
Southcoast
SELF SERVICE CLEANING Junk Removal
EXTERIOR CLEAN-OUT are always ready to
DEMOLITION SERVICES help you with all of
your clean-out needs
Call Us Today at:
(508) 991-1471
Southcoastjunk@gmail.com
Mon – Sun: 7 AM – 10 P
www.southcoastjunkremoval.com
BRAD THELIN
Senior Real Estate Specialist
CENTURY 21 SIGNATURE PROPERTIES
Serving Dartmouth,
Fairhaven, Westport and all
of the South Coast of MA
and RI.
Call today
to get
started!
980 REED ROAD
DARTMOUTH, MA 02747
508-817-1665
bradtrealtor@gmail.com
Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.lpicommunities.com Dartmouth Council on Aging, Dartmouth 06-508015
Dartmouth
Council on Aging
- Programs offered at the Dartmouth COA are
628 Dartmouth St., Dartmouth MA made possible, in part, by Coastline Elderly
P:508-999-4717 F: 508-999-0754 Services, Massachusetts Councils on Aging
STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION (MCOA) and the Executive Office of Elder Affairs.
Thank-you.
Director
Amy DiPietro (508) 999-4717 x3302 - Thank-you to the Friends of the Elderly for your
adipietro@town.dartmouth.ma.us ongoing support.
- Thank-you to Peggy Vollmer and Ginny Walega, our
Assistant Director SHINE counselors for their dedication and extra
Angela Botelho (508) 999-4717 x3301 volunteer hours worked.
abotelho@town.dartmouth.ma.us - Thank-you class instructors for your dedication to
Program / Volunteer Coordinator the Center.
Nancy Miller (508) 999-4717 x3305 - Thank-you to the many dedicated volunteers who
nmiller@town.dartmouth.ma.us give their time to make the Center a great place
Engagement/Outreach Coordinator to be!
Matthew Dansereau (508) 999-4717 x3312 - Thank you to all who made donations to our food
mdansereau@town.dartmouth.ma.us bank last month.
Custodian - Thank-you to the National Honor Society for
Bronson Collins hosting the annual Valentine Day Dance at the
bcollins@town.dartmouth.ma.us Center last month.
COA BOARD MEMBERS - Thank-you to the students and staff at the Potter
and DeMello elementary schools for their large
KATHLEEN DENIZARD, OUIDA DOWD donation of non perishable items to our food
JACQUELYN MCDONALD, ALISON NASTANSKI, pantry.
ELEANOR J. WHITE, PATRICIA J. ZUKOWSKI
- Thank-you to the New Bedford Chapter of the
Daughters of the American Revolution for their
monetary donation to our food pantry.
The DARTMOUTH
FRIENDS OF THE ELDERLY Thank you
Bean family !
Travel Opportunities
A percentage of
proceeds from
centenarian Christine
California Dreamin’: Bean’s watercolor
Monterey, Yosemite & Napa exhibit on display at
the Center in the
April 30-May 7th, 2023 amount of $200. has
been donated to the
Center. It will be used
Magical Rhine and for a special future
Moselle Rivers project.
Pic: Nancy Miller, James Bean and Artist Christine Bean
September 16-24, 2023
Please call Maria Connor at (508)999-4717 Friends Thrift Store
or (508)636-6453 for more information.
Brochures are available at the front desk.
Closed until March 28th
The DARTMOUTH COUNCIL ON AGING NEWSLETTER is composed and edited by Nancy Miller and
Sheridan Smith. We would like to hear from you about your Newsletter. Is there anything you would like to
see in the newsletter that would make you enjoy reading it more, or make it more useful to you?
Contact Nancy at the Center with all your comments. Mail, stop by, call, or email. Thank-you!
Dartmouth
Community MediaLET’S GROW YOUR BUSINESS
Advertise in our Newsletter!
CONTACT ME
Karen Fontaine
kfontaine@lpicommunities.com
84 Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth, MA or (800) 477-4574 x6350
508-965-6626 | Southcoastfinancialgroup.com
Ad info. 1-800-477-4574 • Publication Support 1-800-888-4574 • www.lpicommunities.com Dartmouth Council on Aging, Dartmouth 06-5080You can also read
