COA May 2009 Evergreen Newsletter
TOWN OF WESTPORT Council on Aging
75 Reed Road, Westport, Massachusetts 02790-1135
tel.: 508–636–1026 fax: 508-636-1034
MAY NEWS & EVENTS
AT THE WESTPORT SENIOR CENTER
My Life My Health
Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
Created by Stanford University
My Life, My Health is scheduled to begin on May 4th!!! We still have a couple of available slots for the first six-week session, and are currently taking sign ups for a second session. Please feel free to call Toni Cormier, LSWA, at the Westport Council on Aging for more details--508-636-1026.
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
Begins on Tuesday, May 26, 2009, 7:00 p.m.
Westport High School Auditorium
Take this opportunity to attend each night of Town meeting
to vote on the budgets and other warrant articles.
MOTHER’S DAY -- Sunday, May 10, 2009
BETTER SPEECH AND HEARING MONTH
In Recognition of Better Speech and Hearing Month (May), the Westport Council on Aging is offering the following workshop presented by Northeast Ear, Nose, and Throat of Dartmouth, MA on May 19th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Topic: Communication and Swallowing Problems in the Aging Population
Representatives will be here to provide general information and to answer your questions regarding hearing loss and speech, swallowing, and memory changes seen in the elderly population.
* * * * * * * *
MEDITATION VISUALIZATION GROUP
Beginning on Friday, May 8, 2009 at 2:45 p.m.
Westport Senior Center
Please call Toni Cormier, LSWA, or the C.O.A. office,
508-636-1026 to register.
* * * * * * * *
PRESERVING HISTORY, one person at a time.
Fall River historian, Alfred Lima, is seeking individuals to be interviewed for an oral history project. The goal of the project is to preserve the history of Fall River in the 1920’s, 30’s, and 40’s. Mr. Lima invites any resident of Westport who grew up in Fall River--and who would like to participate in this oral history project--to call him at (508) 672-8217 to schedule an interview.
Ah, it’s spring!
Are you interested in walking/hiking with others who love the out-of-doors? Have you wanted to walk some of the wonderful trails in our area but have some reservations about heading out alone?
We are sending up a trial balloon to see if there is interest in forming a walking/hiking group. The times, dates, and sites will be selected by the group, and of course the out-of-doors is free. If you are interested in this initiative, please call, 508-636-1026, at the Council on Aging. Please include your phone number or e-mail address so we can be in touch to set up a brief meeting to explore this idea together. --Rosemary Lenrow
LEGAL ADVICE
Attorney Jennifer Heald will be meeting individuals for fifteen minute appointments on Tuesday, May 19 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. The first six individuals to sign up will meet with Attorney Heald who will help to answer your questions at the Senior Center. Please write down your questions so you can make good use of your brief time with her.
Attorney Heald established her general civil practice in Westport handling civil matters including estate planning and landlord/tenant cases. As an Estate Planning attorney, she is able to give advice on Last Wills and Testaments, Durable Powers of Attorney, Health Care Proxies, Living Will Declarations, HIPAA Authorizations, and Declarations of Homesteads for clients. She can also provide legal assistance in probate administration.
“Sing-a-long with Natalia”
at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, May 26.
SOUP & SANDWICH and ENTERTAINMENT
On Wednesday, May 13, 2009, we will serve minestrone soup and a meatball sandwich at the Westport Senior Center. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. for the first 60 guests who make reservations--all for the bargain price of $3.00 per person.
Advance registration is required--(508) 636-1026.
The “KEYNOTES” singing group from Dartmouth will perform at 12:00 noon, following the "Soup and Sandwich" meal.
“This musical program is supported by the Westport Cultural Council through a grant from the Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust administered by Bank of America.”
DISCOVER TUSCANY-- November 3 - 12, 2009
The Westport C.O.A. through the Friends of the WCOA is sponsoring a trip to Italy; included in this 10-day excursion hosted by Collette Vacations.
The price includes hometown pick up with 10 or more passengers, air taxes, fees/surcharges of $490 (subject to increase until paid in full), Hotel Transfers, Round-Trip air from Logan International Airport.
For more information, contact Mary Ellen Gomes at the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026.
MEMORIAL T E A !!!
A tea to honor the memory of all those for whom bricks have been purchased over the years, we will have a Memorial Tea on Saturday, May 16, 1:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. You are welcome to R.S.V.P. by May 11th.
Paperwork will be available to make orders for more purchases on the 16th.
* * * * * * * *
DEPRESSION SCREENING:
A half-day training focusing on early, cognitive, inter-personal, and vegetative signs of depression, as well as effective early interventions.
Thursday, May 21, 2009, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., Senior Center
Presented by: Terry Ruby, LMHC, Ph.D., Community Counseling of Bristol County, Inc.
Refreshments will be served.
R.S.V.P. by May 14, 508-636-1026, COA
* * * * * * * *
VOLUNTEER BREAKFAST!
Saturday, June 6, 9:00 a.m.
* * * * * * * *
SENIOR CENTER CLOSING POLICY: If the Westport Community Schools announce closings due to weather emergencies, the Senior Center will close for classes, transportation, and other activities--the COA office may operate for routine administrative operations only.
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL to the network of services available to Westport residents, 60 years of age and over. WCOA is open Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
The SHINE Program (SERVING THE HEALTH INFORMATION NEEDS OF ELDERS)--information about Medicare, supplements, MassHealth. Phone consultations and office appointments.
TRANSPORTATION for Westport’s elders, and handicapped persons of all ages, Monday - Friday, to area appointments scheduled between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. When you make your doctor’s appointment, call us for a ride. Please have the exact doctor’s name, street address, and telephone number when you call.
MIND Art Expressings Bingo Drawing Games Knitting Quilting Poetry Writing Watercolor
AND BODY Aerobics, Billiards, Chair Massage, Osteoporosis Prevention, Reiki, T’ai Chi, Yoga, Zumba
FITNESS
PROGRAMS: Call for space availability and fees-508-636-1026.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP w/ Phyllis--1st Thursday
Thursday, May 7, 2009, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Transportation is available for Westport residents.
VISUAL IMPAIRMENT SUPPORT GROUP w/ Andrea--3rd Tuesday
also, BOOKS ON TAPE--VIDEO MAGNIFIER
Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Transportation is available for Westport residents.
CHAIR MASSAGE w/ Karen--1st Tuesday
Tuesday, May 5, 2009, 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
This is a complimentary service—no charge.
REIKI w/ Deborah--Mondays, 10:00 a.m.-12 noon. Fee schedule.
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC w/Nurse Kathy
Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
PODIATRY CLINIC at Dr. Spiri’s office in Somerset,
Thursday, July 2. Call the COA, 508-636-1026.
Digital TV Converter Box
Coastline Elderly Services has a grant to help people with the converter boxes. Joan Straton from Coastline will be available to help people with questions and problems about their conversions. Joan has coupons and is available to go out to your home and help you install the unit. Call the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026, and leave a message.
Friends of the Westport Council on Aging, Inc.
P. O. Box N-192, Westport, MA 02790
We are living in a world of conflict, and misunderstanding. We are all confused and concerned. There is a time for giving of ourselves to others, to help those less fortunate. Let us all be thankful of our own lives.
Speaking of confusion, there is still quite a bit at the Senior Center.
The COA is an advisory board to the Director of the Westport Council on Aging reporting to the Town Board of Selectmen. The second is the Friends of the Westport Council on Aging, Inc. whose mission is to raise funds for the benefit of the Senior Center--to make it safe and be a welcome place for senior citizens. I think we have done that, with always room for improvement.
I would encourage all who read this publication to reach out and tell your friends about the Senior Center. With a population of over 15,000 in Westport, and over 4,000 over sixty years of age, this is a wonderful place to have fun, meet others, and share. Please tell our friends about the Center. I do every chance I get. --Peter C. Forrester, President, FWCOA
HEALTH
Eight Things You Can Do to Prevent Heartburn
1. Eat smaller meals - Too much food expands your stomach and puts pressure on a band of muscle (esophageal sphincter) that helps keep food in your stomach.
2. Avoid alcohol, fatty foods, chocolate, spearmint, and peppermint - These foods can relax our esophageal sphincter and promote upward flow of stomach contents.
3. Use an antacid - People most often take over-the-counter antacids to relieve symptoms of heartburn. But an antacid can also help prevent symptoms. Take it after meals and before bedtime.
4. Don’t eat before sleeping - Wait two to three hours after eating before lying down. This allows enough time for increased stomach acid produced by our meal to taper off.
5. Wear loose clothes - A tight belt, girdle, or waistband can cause heartburn.
6. Stop smoking - the nicotine from cigarettes can relax your esophageal sphincter.
7. Elevate the head of your bed - Raise the head of your bed four to six inches. This helps keep stomach acid in your stomach where it belongs.
8. If you are overweight, lose weight - Trimming down helps reduce the pressure your abdomen puts on your stomach when you are lying down.
--Mayo Clinic Health Letter
Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
Created by Stanford University
My Life, My Health is scheduled to begin on May 4th!!! We still have a couple of available slots for the first six-week session, and are currently taking sign ups for a second session. Please feel free to call Toni Cormier, LSWA, at the Westport Council on Aging for more details--508-636-1026.
Begins on Tuesday, May 26, 2009, 7:00 p.m.
Westport High School Auditorium
Take this opportunity to attend each night of Town meeting
to vote on the budgets and other warrant articles.
BETTER SPEECH AND HEARING MONTH
In Recognition of Better Speech and Hearing Month (May), the Westport Council on Aging is offering the following workshop presented by Northeast Ear, Nose, and Throat of Dartmouth, MA on May 19th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Topic: Communication and Swallowing Problems in the Aging Population
Representatives will be here to provide general information and to answer your questions regarding hearing loss and speech, swallowing, and memory changes seen in the elderly population.
* * * * * * * *
MEDITATION VISUALIZATION GROUP
Beginning on Friday, May 8, 2009 at 2:45 p.m.
Westport Senior Center
Please call Toni Cormier, LSWA, or the C.O.A. office,
508-636-1026 to register.
* * * * * * * *
PRESERVING HISTORY, one person at a time.
Fall River historian, Alfred Lima, is seeking individuals to be interviewed for an oral history project. The goal of the project is to preserve the history of Fall River in the 1920’s, 30’s, and 40’s. Mr. Lima invites any resident of Westport who grew up in Fall River--and who would like to participate in this oral history project--to call him at (508) 672-8217 to schedule an interview.
Ah, it’s spring!
Are you interested in walking/hiking with others who love the out-of-doors? Have you wanted to walk some of the wonderful trails in our area but have some reservations about heading out alone?
We are sending up a trial balloon to see if there is interest in forming a walking/hiking group. The times, dates, and sites will be selected by the group, and of course the out-of-doors is free. If you are interested in this initiative, please call, 508-636-1026, at the Council on Aging. Please include your phone number or e-mail address so we can be in touch to set up a brief meeting to explore this idea together. --Rosemary Lenrow
LEGAL ADVICE
Attorney Jennifer Heald will be meeting individuals for fifteen minute appointments on Tuesday, May 19 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. The first six individuals to sign up will meet with Attorney Heald who will help to answer your questions at the Senior Center. Please write down your questions so you can make good use of your brief time with her.
Attorney Heald established her general civil practice in Westport handling civil matters including estate planning and landlord/tenant cases. As an Estate Planning attorney, she is able to give advice on Last Wills and Testaments, Durable Powers of Attorney, Health Care Proxies, Living Will Declarations, HIPAA Authorizations, and Declarations of Homesteads for clients. She can also provide legal assistance in probate administration.
“Sing-a-long with Natalia”
at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, May 26.
SOUP & SANDWICH and ENTERTAINMENT
On Wednesday, May 13, 2009, we will serve minestrone soup and a meatball sandwich at the Westport Senior Center. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. for the first 60 guests who make reservations--all for the bargain price of $3.00 per person.
Advance registration is required--(508) 636-1026.
The “KEYNOTES” singing group from Dartmouth will perform at 12:00 noon, following the "Soup and Sandwich" meal.
“This musical program is supported by the Westport Cultural Council through a grant from the Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust administered by Bank of America.”
DISCOVER TUSCANY-- November 3 - 12, 2009
The Westport C.O.A. through the Friends of the WCOA is sponsoring a trip to Italy; included in this 10-day excursion hosted by Collette Vacations.
The price includes hometown pick up with 10 or more passengers, air taxes, fees/surcharges of $490 (subject to increase until paid in full), Hotel Transfers, Round-Trip air from Logan International Airport.
For more information, contact Mary Ellen Gomes at the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026.
MEMORIAL T E A !!!
A tea to honor the memory of all those for whom bricks have been purchased over the years, we will have a Memorial Tea on Saturday, May 16, 1:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. You are welcome to R.S.V.P. by May 11th.
Paperwork will be available to make orders for more purchases on the 16th.
* * * * * * * *
DEPRESSION SCREENING:
A half-day training focusing on early, cognitive, inter-personal, and vegetative signs of depression, as well as effective early interventions.
Thursday, May 21, 2009, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., Senior Center
Presented by: Terry Ruby, LMHC, Ph.D., Community Counseling of Bristol County, Inc.
Refreshments will be served.
R.S.V.P. by May 14, 508-636-1026, COA
* * * * * * * *
VOLUNTEER BREAKFAST!
Saturday, June 6, 9:00 a.m.
* * * * * * * *
SENIOR CENTER CLOSING POLICY: If the Westport Community Schools announce closings due to weather emergencies, the Senior Center will close for classes, transportation, and other activities--the COA office may operate for routine administrative operations only.
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL to the network of services available to Westport residents, 60 years of age and over. WCOA is open Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
The SHINE Program (SERVING THE HEALTH INFORMATION NEEDS OF ELDERS)--information about Medicare, supplements, MassHealth. Phone consultations and office appointments.
TRANSPORTATION for Westport’s elders, and handicapped persons of all ages, Monday - Friday, to area appointments scheduled between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. When you make your doctor’s appointment, call us for a ride. Please have the exact doctor’s name, street address, and telephone number when you call.
MIND Art Expressings Bingo Drawing Games Knitting Quilting Poetry Writing Watercolor
AND BODY Aerobics, Billiards, Chair Massage, Osteoporosis Prevention, Reiki, T’ai Chi, Yoga, Zumba
FITNESS
PROGRAMS: Call for space availability and fees-508-636-1026.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP w/ Phyllis--1st Thursday
Thursday, May 7, 2009, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Transportation is available for Westport residents.
VISUAL IMPAIRMENT SUPPORT GROUP w/ Andrea--3rd Tuesday
also, BOOKS ON TAPE--VIDEO MAGNIFIER
Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Transportation is available for Westport residents.
CHAIR MASSAGE w/ Karen--1st Tuesday
Tuesday, May 5, 2009, 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
This is a complimentary service—no charge.
REIKI w/ Deborah--Mondays, 10:00 a.m.-12 noon. Fee schedule.
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC w/Nurse Kathy
Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
PODIATRY CLINIC at Dr. Spiri’s office in Somerset,
Thursday, July 2. Call the COA, 508-636-1026.
Digital TV Converter Box
Coastline Elderly Services has a grant to help people with the converter boxes. Joan Straton from Coastline will be available to help people with questions and problems about their conversions. Joan has coupons and is available to go out to your home and help you install the unit. Call the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026, and leave a message.
Friends of the Westport Council on Aging, Inc.
P. O. Box N-192, Westport, MA 02790
We are living in a world of conflict, and misunderstanding. We are all confused and concerned. There is a time for giving of ourselves to others, to help those less fortunate. Let us all be thankful of our own lives.
Speaking of confusion, there is still quite a bit at the Senior Center.
The COA is an advisory board to the Director of the Westport Council on Aging reporting to the Town Board of Selectmen. The second is the Friends of the Westport Council on Aging, Inc. whose mission is to raise funds for the benefit of the Senior Center--to make it safe and be a welcome place for senior citizens. I think we have done that, with always room for improvement.
I would encourage all who read this publication to reach out and tell your friends about the Senior Center. With a population of over 15,000 in Westport, and over 4,000 over sixty years of age, this is a wonderful place to have fun, meet others, and share. Please tell our friends about the Center. I do every chance I get. --Peter C. Forrester, President, FWCOA
HEALTH
Eight Things You Can Do to Prevent Heartburn
1. Eat smaller meals - Too much food expands your stomach and puts pressure on a band of muscle (esophageal sphincter) that helps keep food in your stomach.
2. Avoid alcohol, fatty foods, chocolate, spearmint, and peppermint - These foods can relax our esophageal sphincter and promote upward flow of stomach contents.
3. Use an antacid - People most often take over-the-counter antacids to relieve symptoms of heartburn. But an antacid can also help prevent symptoms. Take it after meals and before bedtime.
4. Don’t eat before sleeping - Wait two to three hours after eating before lying down. This allows enough time for increased stomach acid produced by our meal to taper off.
5. Wear loose clothes - A tight belt, girdle, or waistband can cause heartburn.
6. Stop smoking - the nicotine from cigarettes can relax your esophageal sphincter.
7. Elevate the head of your bed - Raise the head of your bed four to six inches. This helps keep stomach acid in your stomach where it belongs.
8. If you are overweight, lose weight - Trimming down helps reduce the pressure your abdomen puts on your stomach when you are lying down.
--Mayo Clinic Health Letter
Attorney Jennifer Heald will be meeting individuals for fifteen minute appointments on Tuesday, May 19 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. The first six individuals to sign up will meet with Attorney Heald who will help to answer your questions at the Senior Center. Please write down your questions so you can make good use of your brief time with her.
Attorney Heald established her general civil practice in Westport handling civil matters including estate planning and landlord/tenant cases. As an Estate Planning attorney, she is able to give advice on Last Wills and Testaments, Durable Powers of Attorney, Health Care Proxies, Living Will Declarations, HIPAA Authorizations, and Declarations of Homesteads for clients. She can also provide legal assistance in probate administration.
“Sing-a-long with Natalia”
On Wednesday, May 13, 2009, we will serve minestrone soup and a meatball sandwich at the Westport Senior Center. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. for the first 60 guests who make reservations--all for the bargain price of $3.00 per person.
Advance registration is required--(508) 636-1026.
The “KEYNOTES” singing group from Dartmouth will perform at 12:00 noon, following the "Soup and Sandwich" meal.
“This musical program is supported by the Westport Cultural Council through a grant from the Helen E. Ellis Charitable Trust administered by Bank of America.”
DISCOVER TUSCANY-- November 3 - 12, 2009
The Westport C.O.A. through the Friends of the WCOA is sponsoring a trip to Italy; included in this 10-day excursion hosted by Collette Vacations.
The price includes hometown pick up with 10 or more passengers, air taxes, fees/surcharges of $490 (subject to increase until paid in full), Hotel Transfers, Round-Trip air from Logan International Airport.
For more information, contact Mary Ellen Gomes at the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026.
MEMORIAL T E A !!!
A tea to honor the memory of all those for whom bricks have been purchased over the years, we will have a Memorial Tea on Saturday, May 16, 1:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. You are welcome to R.S.V.P. by May 11th.
Paperwork will be available to make orders for more purchases on the 16th.
* * * * * * * *
DEPRESSION SCREENING:
A half-day training focusing on early, cognitive, inter-personal, and vegetative signs of depression, as well as effective early interventions.
Thursday, May 21, 2009, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., Senior Center
Presented by: Terry Ruby, LMHC, Ph.D., Community Counseling of Bristol County, Inc.
Refreshments will be served.
R.S.V.P. by May 14, 508-636-1026, COA
* * * * * * * *
VOLUNTEER BREAKFAST!
Saturday, June 6, 9:00 a.m.
* * * * * * * *
SENIOR CENTER CLOSING POLICY: If the Westport Community Schools announce closings due to weather emergencies, the Senior Center will close for classes, transportation, and other activities--the COA office may operate for routine administrative operations only.
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL to the network of services available to Westport residents, 60 years of age and over. WCOA is open Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
The SHINE Program (SERVING THE HEALTH INFORMATION NEEDS OF ELDERS)--information about Medicare, supplements, MassHealth. Phone consultations and office appointments.
TRANSPORTATION for Westport’s elders, and handicapped persons of all ages, Monday - Friday, to area appointments scheduled between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. When you make your doctor’s appointment, call us for a ride. Please have the exact doctor’s name, street address, and telephone number when you call.
MIND Art Expressings Bingo Drawing Games Knitting Quilting Poetry Writing Watercolor
AND BODY Aerobics, Billiards, Chair Massage, Osteoporosis Prevention, Reiki, T’ai Chi, Yoga, Zumba
FITNESS
PROGRAMS: Call for space availability and fees-508-636-1026.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP w/ Phyllis--1st Thursday
Thursday, May 7, 2009, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Transportation is available for Westport residents.
VISUAL IMPAIRMENT SUPPORT GROUP w/ Andrea--3rd Tuesday
also, BOOKS ON TAPE--VIDEO MAGNIFIER
Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Transportation is available for Westport residents.
CHAIR MASSAGE w/ Karen--1st Tuesday
Tuesday, May 5, 2009, 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
This is a complimentary service—no charge.
REIKI w/ Deborah--Mondays, 10:00 a.m.-12 noon. Fee schedule.
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC w/Nurse Kathy
Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
PODIATRY CLINIC at Dr. Spiri’s office in Somerset,
Thursday, July 2. Call the COA, 508-636-1026.
Digital TV Converter Box
Coastline Elderly Services has a grant to help people with the converter boxes. Joan Straton from Coastline will be available to help people with questions and problems about their conversions. Joan has coupons and is available to go out to your home and help you install the unit. Call the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026, and leave a message.
Friends of the Westport Council on Aging, Inc.
P. O. Box N-192, Westport, MA 02790
We are living in a world of conflict, and misunderstanding. We are all confused and concerned. There is a time for giving of ourselves to others, to help those less fortunate. Let us all be thankful of our own lives.
Speaking of confusion, there is still quite a bit at the Senior Center.
The COA is an advisory board to the Director of the Westport Council on Aging reporting to the Town Board of Selectmen. The second is the Friends of the Westport Council on Aging, Inc. whose mission is to raise funds for the benefit of the Senior Center--to make it safe and be a welcome place for senior citizens. I think we have done that, with always room for improvement.
I would encourage all who read this publication to reach out and tell your friends about the Senior Center. With a population of over 15,000 in Westport, and over 4,000 over sixty years of age, this is a wonderful place to have fun, meet others, and share. Please tell our friends about the Center. I do every chance I get. --Peter C. Forrester, President, FWCOA
HEALTH
Eight Things You Can Do to Prevent Heartburn
1. Eat smaller meals - Too much food expands your stomach and puts pressure on a band of muscle (esophageal sphincter) that helps keep food in your stomach.
2. Avoid alcohol, fatty foods, chocolate, spearmint, and peppermint - These foods can relax our esophageal sphincter and promote upward flow of stomach contents.
3. Use an antacid - People most often take over-the-counter antacids to relieve symptoms of heartburn. But an antacid can also help prevent symptoms. Take it after meals and before bedtime.
4. Don’t eat before sleeping - Wait two to three hours after eating before lying down. This allows enough time for increased stomach acid produced by our meal to taper off.
5. Wear loose clothes - A tight belt, girdle, or waistband can cause heartburn.
6. Stop smoking - the nicotine from cigarettes can relax your esophageal sphincter.
7. Elevate the head of your bed - Raise the head of your bed four to six inches. This helps keep stomach acid in your stomach where it belongs.
8. If you are overweight, lose weight - Trimming down helps reduce the pressure your abdomen puts on your stomach when you are lying down.
--Mayo Clinic Health Letter
DISCOVER TUSCANY-- November 3 - 12, 2009
The Westport C.O.A. through the Friends of the WCOA is sponsoring a trip to Italy; included in this 10-day excursion hosted by Collette Vacations.
The price includes hometown pick up with 10 or more passengers, air taxes, fees/surcharges of $490 (subject to increase until paid in full), Hotel Transfers, Round-Trip air from Logan International Airport.
For more information, contact Mary Ellen Gomes at the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026.
MEMORIAL T E A !!!
A tea to honor the memory of all those for whom bricks have been purchased over the years, we will have a Memorial Tea on Saturday, May 16, 1:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. You are welcome to R.S.V.P. by May 11th.
Paperwork will be available to make orders for more purchases on the 16th.
DEPRESSION SCREENING:
A half-day training focusing on early, cognitive, inter-personal, and vegetative signs of depression, as well as effective early interventions.
Thursday, May 21, 2009, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., Senior Center
Presented by: Terry Ruby, LMHC, Ph.D., Community Counseling of Bristol County, Inc.
Refreshments will be served.
R.S.V.P. by May 14, 508-636-1026, COA
The SHINE Program (SERVING THE HEALTH INFORMATION NEEDS OF ELDERS)--information about Medicare, supplements, MassHealth. Phone consultations and office appointments.
AND BODY Aerobics, Billiards, Chair Massage, Osteoporosis Prevention, Reiki, T’ai Chi, Yoga, Zumba
FITNESS
PROGRAMS: Call for space availability and fees-508-636-1026.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP w/ Phyllis--1st Thursday
Thursday, May 7, 2009, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Transportation is available for Westport residents.
also, BOOKS ON TAPE--VIDEO MAGNIFIER
Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Transportation is available for Westport residents.
CHAIR MASSAGE w/ Karen--1st Tuesday
Tuesday, May 5, 2009, 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
This is a complimentary service—no charge.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009, 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
This is a complimentary service—no charge.
REIKI w/ Deborah--Mondays, 10:00 a.m.-12 noon. Fee schedule.
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC w/Nurse Kathy
Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
PODIATRY CLINIC at Dr. Spiri’s office in Somerset,
Thursday, July 2. Call the COA, 508-636-1026.
Digital TV Converter Box
Coastline Elderly Services has a grant to help people with the converter boxes. Joan Straton from Coastline will be available to help people with questions and problems about their conversions. Joan has coupons and is available to go out to your home and help you install the unit. Call the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026, and leave a message.
Coastline Elderly Services has a grant to help people with the converter boxes. Joan Straton from Coastline will be available to help people with questions and problems about their conversions. Joan has coupons and is available to go out to your home and help you install the unit. Call the Westport Council on Aging, 508-636-1026, and leave a message.
Friends of the Westport Council on Aging, Inc.
P. O. Box N-192, Westport, MA 02790
We are living in a world of conflict, and misunderstanding. We are all confused and concerned. There is a time for giving of ourselves to others, to help those less fortunate. Let us all be thankful of our own lives.
Speaking of confusion, there is still quite a bit at the Senior Center.
The COA is an advisory board to the Director of the Westport Council on Aging reporting to the Town Board of Selectmen. The second is the Friends of the Westport Council on Aging, Inc. whose mission is to raise funds for the benefit of the Senior Center--to make it safe and be a welcome place for senior citizens. I think we have done that, with always room for improvement.
I would encourage all who read this publication to reach out and tell your friends about the Senior Center. With a population of over 15,000 in Westport, and over 4,000 over sixty years of age, this is a wonderful place to have fun, meet others, and share. Please tell our friends about the Center. I do every chance I get. --Peter C. Forrester, President, FWCOA
HEALTH
Eight Things You Can Do to Prevent Heartburn
1. Eat smaller meals - Too much food expands your stomach and puts pressure on a band of muscle (esophageal sphincter) that helps keep food in your stomach.
2. Avoid alcohol, fatty foods, chocolate, spearmint, and peppermint - These foods can relax our esophageal sphincter and promote upward flow of stomach contents.
3. Use an antacid - People most often take over-the-counter antacids to relieve symptoms of heartburn. But an antacid can also help prevent symptoms. Take it after meals and before bedtime.
4. Don’t eat before sleeping - Wait two to three hours after eating before lying down. This allows enough time for increased stomach acid produced by our meal to taper off.
5. Wear loose clothes - A tight belt, girdle, or waistband can cause heartburn.
6. Stop smoking - the nicotine from cigarettes can relax your esophageal sphincter.
7. Elevate the head of your bed - Raise the head of your bed four to six inches. This helps keep stomach acid in your stomach where it belongs.
8. If you are overweight, lose weight - Trimming down helps reduce the pressure your abdomen puts on your stomach when you are lying down.
--Mayo Clinic Health Letter
HEALTH
Eight Things You Can Do to Prevent Heartburn
1. Eat smaller meals - Too much food expands your stomach and puts pressure on a band of muscle (esophageal sphincter) that helps keep food in your stomach.
2. Avoid alcohol, fatty foods, chocolate, spearmint, and peppermint - These foods can relax our esophageal sphincter and promote upward flow of stomach contents.
3. Use an antacid - People most often take over-the-counter antacids to relieve symptoms of heartburn. But an antacid can also help prevent symptoms. Take it after meals and before bedtime.
4. Don’t eat before sleeping - Wait two to three hours after eating before lying down. This allows enough time for increased stomach acid produced by our meal to taper off.
5. Wear loose clothes - A tight belt, girdle, or waistband can cause heartburn.
6. Stop smoking - the nicotine from cigarettes can relax your esophageal sphincter.
7. Elevate the head of your bed - Raise the head of your bed four to six inches. This helps keep stomach acid in your stomach where it belongs.
8. If you are overweight, lose weight - Trimming down helps reduce the pressure your abdomen puts on your stomach when you are lying down.
--Mayo Clinic Health Letter
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