THE SILVER SPIRIT

Barre Senior Center/Council on Aging Please note: Our NEW mailing address is:
557 South Barre Road 40 West Street , Suite 433
P-978-355-5004—F-978-355-5021 Barre, Massachusetts 01005
Eileen Clarkson, HS-BCP, CDP, MS, MPA—Director September ~ 2018
Notary Public, MCOA Certified Director, ServSafe Certified Volume 1, Issue 9
Email-coa@townofbarre.com Hours of Operation:
Monday –Friday 9:00—3:00

THE MISSION OF THE BARRE COUNCIL ON AGING

The Mission of the Barre Council on Aging: Identify the needs of elders in the community. Educate the community
and enlist the support and participation of all citizens to meet the needs of elders. Design, advocate, and/or im-
plement services to fill these needs, or coordinate existing services. Cooperate with the Massachusetts Executive
Office of Elder Affairs and the Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging and be cognizant of state and federal
legislation and programs regarding elders.

NEW: Great Kneads Nail and
Reflexology Service will be
here every third Monday with
appointments starting at 9:00.
Call us at 978-355-5004 to
book your appointment.. Or call
for prices
I would like to thank Barre Saving Bank Charita- On Sept. 25th will
ble Foundation for their recent grant award to be our Flu, Pneu-
purchase electronic equipment tools to be able
to educate folks on how to use these devices. monia, and Shin-
THANK YOU BARRE SAVING BANK CHARI- gles Clinic. Pre-sign
TABLE FOUNDATION!! Truly appreciated!!! -up required.
As a reminder, please dress in layers, as the weather often changes
the temperatures inside of the building, we are also a cooling center
during the very warm weather, and a warming center during the cold
weather. Please dress accordingly... Thank you….

A Note from the Director,

GREAT NEWS!! If you are interested in learning how to use an electronic device, we have
some new devices for your learn on and see what you would like to use before you pur-
chase one. Or you can just learn and use these new items here. I can teach you, call to
book your appointment to learn how...A HUGE THANK YOU TO Barre Saving Bank Char-
itable Foundation for their grant award.
Do you have something old? Do you wonder how much it is worth or what the history is of
the item? Quabbin Valley Antiques will be here do to an Antiques Road Show on Sept.
21, appointments and sign-up required. Call the center or stop by to sign-up at the desk.
Do you struggle with balance? Stop by to have a balance test on Sept. 10 starting at 12.30
and also have some dessert with us. FREE.
Don’t forget to stop in to get your Flu, Pneumonia, and Shingles shots on Sept 25th at 9.30, pre-sign-
up required for insurance purposes.
More GREAT NEWS...starting in October I will be able to help folks filing their SNAP application through the
states DTA Connect. Anyone who needs assistance with their application/recertification I
will be able to have your information sent quicker and to help maintain your benefits. I will
be able to help you with the application process, faxing your documents, and the interview.
Stop by or call 978-355-5004. Have a great Labor Day! Eileen, Director

1
Information, Services and Resources
Please check out our Web-Site Page
on the Town’s Web-Site. Our site
is http://www.townofbarre.com then
click on Services and scroll to
Senior Services.
COA Wish List: Old towels (for
cleaning), individually wrapped
candy (chocolate is a favored
choice for folks), monetary do-
nations are also welcome
Representative Berthiaume’s office
hours will be on Sept. 4th at 11:00. If
you have questions or concerns stop
by then. Going forward, the first
Tuesday of every month at 11.00
Sneak Peak—Have you ever wanted to paint but
didn't think you could? Art on the Rocks will be
here on October 19th at 11 to do a wonderful
program of a painting class. Sign-up and prepay
is required. They provide all the materials and the
cost is $35.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention: One-fourth of Amer-
icans aged 65+ falls each year. Every 11
seconds, an older adult is treated in the
emergency room for a fall; every 19 minutes,
an older adult dies from a fall. Falls are the
leading cause of fatal injury and the most
common cause of nonfatal trauma-related
hospital admissions among older adults.
Falls result in more than 3 million injuries
treated in emergency departments annually,
including over 850,000 hospitalizations and
more than 29,000 deaths. In 2015, the total
cost of fall injuries was $50 billion. The fi-
nancial toll for older adult falls is expected to
increase as the population ages and may
reach $67.7 billion by 2020. Falls, with or
without injury, also carry a heavy quality of
life impact. A growing number of older adults
fear falling and, as a result, limit their activi-
ties and social engagements. This can result
in further physical decline, depression, social
isolation, and feelings of helplessness.
Did you know….???...Recognized by the Old-
er Americans Act (OAA) as a community focal
point, senior centers have become one of the
most widely used services among America’s
older adults. Today, 11,400 senior centers
serve more than 1 million older adults every
day.
To all those September Barre babies, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to
you. Enjoy your day...Come to the Center and Celebrate with us
on the first Monday of each month at 12:00 for cake sponsored
by Fallon Health NaviCare Program. There are 33 of you over
the age 80 and 12 over the age of 90. Congratulations!!
As we get older, body water content decreases, the risk for dehydration increases, and the conse-
quences become more serious.
Dehydration has been associated with increased mortality rates among hospitalized older adults1
and can precipitate emergency hospitalization and increase the risk of repeated stays in hospital. 2,3
Dehydration is a frequent cause of hospitalization of older adults and one of the ten most frequent
diagnoses responsible for hospitalization in the United-States.3
Evidence suggests high dehydration rates of elderly patients within hospitals and other health care
institutions.2
Dehydration has also been associated with various morbidities, such as impaired cognition or acute
confusion, falling or constipation.
The cost associated with dehydration may be very high: a study conducted in 1999 in the United
States evaluated the avoidable costs of hospitalizations due to dehydration at $1.14 billion.4
Why are the elderly more susceptible to dehydration?
The amount of body water decreases by approximately 15% (about 6 L) between the ages of 20
and 80.5 With this decrease, the body becomes more susceptible to dehydration from the loss of a
small amount of body water.6
Moreover, the elderly often experience diminished thirst sensation which leads to a reduced fluid
consumption.7,8
Also as a consequence of ageing, the kidneys have a reduced ability to concentrate urine and re-
tain water during water deprivation.9 In addition, ageing kidneys are less able to conserve or ex-
crete sodium.10
Insufficient fluid intakes can also be the result of limitations such as reduced swallowing capacity,
decreased mobility, or comprehension and communication disorders. Disease-related factors, such
as incontinence can increase water losses. Dehydration may also be caused by warm temperature,
inadequate staffing in institutions, or use of laxatives or diuretics
Happy Birthday to all those
Hardwick Babies that are
over the age of 80 for the
month of September there are
3 and 3 over 90 . Congratula-
Lending Library- You are en-
couraged to stop by the Sen- tions! Join us for Cake spon-
ior Center to take advantage sored by Fallon Health
of our newly organized media
room. We have many newer NaviCare Program. Enjoy
books & puzzles for you to
enjoy. Please note: While we
accept donations of books &
puzzles, we kindly ask that
books be in good condition &
that puzzles are five hundred
pieces or less with boxes in-
tact & no missing pieces.
2
Information, Services and Resources
Did you know ...Sleep is something that’s vital to keep our bod-
ies working properly. Getting enough sleep at the right times
and on a regular schedule helps you function better. People who
don’t get enough sleep are less productive at work and school.
They take longer to finish tasks, have slower reaction times, and
make more mistakes. Not getting enough sleep is also linked to
chronic health problems later in life. Those include heart dis-
ease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke,
obesity, and depression.
Jokes: A blonde goes on a hot date and ends up making out with the
guy in his car. The guy asks if she would like to go in the backseat.
"No!" yells the blonde. Things get even hotter, and the guy asks again.
"For the last time, no!" says the blonde. Frustrated, the guy asks, "Well,
why the hell not?" The blonde says, "Because I wanna stay up here
with you!"
Q: Why did Frosty the Snowman want a divorce? A: He thought his wife
was a flake.
Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright
until you hear them speak.
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is
not putting it in a fruit salad.
Evening news is where they begin with 'Good
evening', and then proceed to tell you why it isn't.
The sole purpose of a child's middle name, is so he can tell when he's
really in trouble.
I intend to live forever. So far, so good.
When tempted to fight fire with fire, remember that the Fire Department
usually uses water.
What’s the difference?
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease, a result of the immune sys-
tem attacking the tissues that line the body’s joints. This causes pain, swell-
ing, and stiffness in the joints and the pain is often symmetrical. It is more
common in women and in those who are middle aged, but it can happen to
anyone.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis happens over time. It is the most common form of arthritis, and
it usually occurs in older people. The protective cartilage on the ends of your
bones wear down as you age, making it difficult to move. It usually affects one
side of the body. Osteoarthritis can damage any joint in your body, though it
most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips, and spine.
3
Did you know…..? Our bodies are 90
percent water, so it’s no surprise we need a
lot of it to keep going each day. In fact, the
average person needs three quarts of water
daily to function well. But when we’re exercis-
ing, sweating, or spending time in the sun, we
may need more liquid. Without enough hydra-
tion and electrolytes, we can become dehy-
drated. Signs of dehydration are feeling
thirsty, having dark-colored urine, feeling faint
or dizzy, and having to urinate less. If you
think you may be dehydrated, try to drink
small amounts water over a period of time to
prevent throwing up. Electrolytes—minerals
in our bodies that help balance the amount of
water—are key to avoiding dehydration.
Sports drinks (without caffeine) with electro-
lytes may help if you have an imbalance.
Open Enrollment is coming...if you do not
like your insurance plan and want to pick a
new one, this is the time to do it. Fallon will
be here to discuss their Senior plans on
Oct 24th from 10—12 and Nov. 28th from
10-12.
Food Pantry is open on
the 2nd Wednesday of
each month at the Congre-
gational Church. Bring you
license and a bill to show
residence.
If you go to the 800ageinfo web-site, you can
do an assess my needs where you would be
able to find tools that may help you with some
basic needs or find resources that could help
you. 800ageinfor.com
FLU, PNEUMONIA, and SHINGLES SHOTS
will be on September 25th, sign up is required,
and the cut off is September 18th, this is spon-
sored by Walgreens Pharma-
cy (formally RiteAid).
Events at the Senior Center Council on Aging Take Note-sign-up is be-
Board Meeting is ginning for FLU, Pneu-
the First Wednes- monia, and Shingles
Come join us for coffee each day of every month, SHOTS. Walgreens
morning starting at 9.00 am Sept 5th, 2018. If (formally RITE-AID) will
A donation is asked. you would like to be providing these shots.
become an associ- Sign-up and pre-
ate member, let’s insurance screening is
Join our Tai Chi group and learn the relaxing required. Sign-up at the
talk... We are al-
benefits of this strengthen- desk.
ways looking for
ing and endurance tech-
members. If you
nique. Every M-W-F at
are looking for Line Dancing—
1:00. Cost is $5 for 3 clas-
something to do for join us on Mon-
ses. Slow gentle exercise,
a few hours a day’s from 11 to
standing or sitting. First
month, we want 12. There is a do-
class is FREE!!
you! nation suggestion
of $3.00 per class or $20.00 for
9 classes.
On Tuesdays at 9:00, join the Art group for your
choice of medium, cost is $20.00 for 5 classes with Be sure to sign up for your pedicure or manicure at
supplies included. Explore your artistic
the desk. Or you can sign up for reflexology or a
talent and see what you can do, you may
hot rock therapy. Price list is at the desk. Check it
be surprised. Art class is starting back up
out.
on July 2nd.

We will be showing Al Clark’s walk- Chair aerobics is every 2nd and 4th
ing tours on September 13th start- Wednesday starting at 9:30. Join Mercy in
ing at 12.30. Serving popcorn and this great way to keep your heart pump-
beverage. ing.

Do you struggle with bal- Try something relaxing... Senior

ance? Stop in to have a
balance check on Septem-
ber 10th at 12:30. Quabbin
Valley Health Care will be
providing dessert and bal-
ance testing. Come in and
listen and learn about your
balance.
Quilting Class is starting up again
on September 11th, from 12.30 to
2.30. Come learn, socialize, and
quilt. There will be a surprise pro-
ject and the cost is $30 for 10
weeks of classes. If you would like
to learn how to quilt, Debbie will
teach you-questions call 978-257-8102.
Chair based Yoga at the Barre
Senior Center on Tuesdays and
Thursdays 9:00-10:00am $5.00
per class. Free class coupons
available.
Don’t forget, if you need
some help with your electronic
device, stop by and I can help
you. We have someone here
that we can teach you on if
you want to learn how to use a
laptop, tablet, or desktop,
please let me know so that I
can be here to help you. Call us
at 978-355-5004.

4
Events at the Senior Center Computer Lessons—Do
you what to know some-
Council On Aging
Board Members
thing about a computer, Richard (Dick) Whippee~Chair--
tablet, cell phone, or oth- 2019
What Is Reflexology? Patricia (Pat) Kowal~Vice Chair--
Reflexology is a non-medical therapy approach. It is er device, stop by and see 2019
acupressure applied to points on the hands, feet, the director to learn Patricia (Pat) Sirois~Secretary--
face, and ears. It helps to release toxins from the about these electronic 2019
body and improve circulation. devices. Andrea Goodwin~2020
Remember Reflexologists’ Don’t—Diagnose Beverly (Bev) Brooks~2018
medical conditions-Treat medical conditions Linda Payne—2020
Gloria Castriotta-2018
Prescribe medications-Claim or promise to cure Bernice Miller-2020
Perform Massage-Replace your primary care pro- Stanley (Stan) Miknaitis-2021
vider Associate Board Members
What are you waiting for? You deserve Diane Clark
This is for all levels of
relief and relaxation-treat yourself! Dede Charlton
learning so please stop Hardwick Council Members
Every third Monday, starting appointments at 9:00.
by and see what you can Gloria Judd
Call for a price list or stop by an pick one up. learn to do on your de- Alice Paradis
vice, or even if you do
Join us for pinochle every Wednesday not have one, you can If you would like to join the
starting 1:00. This is a fun game and learn on ours. Any board, please see the Director or
folks can help you learn it. Stop by to time—FREE call 978-355-5004
check it out. FREE

On the second Tuesday of this

Join us every Tuesday and Thursday for
Bingo. Cards are $.50 each, limit of four (4)
and on the last Tuesday of each month is a
SPECIAL Bingo,
with a card be-
ing $2.00-limit
one (1) card.
 Do you enjoy crafts?
Do you like to have
conversations? Stop
by on Fridays at 10:00
for our Crafts and
Conversation group.
Bring your craft item,
crocheting, knitting, or
other item and sit and
enjoy some coffee and
conversation while
working on your craft.
month we will be having a
FREE Blood Pressure Clinic
from 1-3, stop by to have yours
checked and be sure to have
yours checked regularly. It could
save your life. Sponsored by VNA Care.
Please, as a reminder, Jayne needs a two (2) day
notice for lunch, for example, if you are ordering
lunch for Tuesday, you need to call 978-355-5027
the Friday before by 11:00 am in order for her to
order the correct amount of meals.
Thank you...
How Do I Fallon Health will be here on
Make a Health Care Plan? September 26th from 10:00 to
Step 1, Explore, Make Choices, Step 12:00 for any questions you
2, Plan, Communicate Choices, Step
may have
3, Connect, Honor Choice. Learn
how to make your plan and share it regarding
with family. your insur-
Held on Sept 5th, starting 10:00 ance. Brian
is here to
Learn
what you help you,
need to stop by.
do!!

5
 ____FIRE PREVENTION WEEK IS OCTOBER 7-13-JOIN US IN OCTOBER FOR A SPECIAL TRAINING___
MassHealth introduced accountable care organizations
(ACOs) for many of its members in March 2018. An
ACO is a group of doctors, hospitals, and other health
care providers that work together with the goals of deliv-
ering better care to members, improving the population's
health, and controlling costs. MEMBER ELIGIBILITY
Most MassHealth members eligible for managed care
can enroll in an ACO. Specifically, ACOs are available to
members who previously were in a managed care or-
ganization (MCO) or the Primary Care Clinician (PCC)
Plan. These people: • Are younger than age 65; • Do
not have any other health insurance coverage (including
Medicare); • Live in the community (not a nursing facili-
ty); and • Are covered by MassHealth Standard, Com-
monHealth, CarePlus, or Family Assistance.
The Mass College for Pharmacy pro-
vides Comprehensive Eye and Vi-
sion Care Starts at MCPHS
The Eye and Vision Center at MCPHS
University offers accessible, comprehen-
sive eye and vision care to patients in
Worcester, Massachusetts and the sur-
rounding areas. Knowledgeable, highly
skilled optometrists work together with
dedicated student interns to provide the
best care possible. To schedule an ap-
pointment call 508-373-5830, M-F from 8
to 5, and are located at 10 Lincoln
Square, Worcester, MCPHS University.

Vaccines: What Medicare Pays For Vaccines play a vital role in preventing illness and maintaining
health, but knowing if and when Medicare pays for vaccines can be confusing.
Influenza. Part B. Medicare pays for (and recommends) one shot every flu season. Additional flu
vaccines may be covered if considered medically necessary.
Shingles. All Part D plans must cover. One shot paid for (and recommended) after age 60. Patient
must check with plan to find out specific rules for administration and payment.
Pneumococcal (pneumonia). Part B Medicare pays for one shot, recommended for all adults aged
65+ and younger adults with chronic health conditions.
Hepatitis B. Part B. Series of three shots, paid for by Medicare for high- or medium-risk individuals,
including those with hemophilia, end stage renal disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions that
lower resistance to infection—September 25th starting at 9.30-sign-up required.

Did you know….???... To maintain operations, senior What steps can be taken to prevent
centers must leverage resources from a variety of dehydration in the elderly?
sources. These include federal, state, and local gov- Prevention is primarily based on
ernments; special events; public and private grants; ensuring adequate fluid intake.
Raising awareness of the elderly,
businesses; bequests; participant contributions; in-kind
their families and caregivers on the
donations; and volunteer hours. Most centers rely on 3 risks of dehydration and its conse-
to 8 different funding sources. quences is fundamental for dehy-
dration prevention,1,11and can lead
If you are interesting in to cost-savings in geriatric institu-
some day trips, tions.12,13
Wilson Bus has several SOME STRATEGIES FOR ENCOURAGING FLUIDS
trips coming up, CONSUMPTION9,11
Foxwoods on Sept 12th & • Offer fluids regularly during the day
24th
• Make liquids readily available all day (at bedside or
Mohegan on Sept. 22nd, cost is $36.00
chairside in geriatric institutions) by placing containers
Kancamagus Highway Foliage
Tour, Oct.14th, Cost is $91.00 such as small bottle of water or sippy cups
Newport Mansions, Dec. 1st, • Encourage consumption of fluids with medication
cost is $79.00 • Provide preferred beverages
Newport Play House, Sylvia-Oct. Prescribe and safeguard a minimum intake of 1.5 L in peri-
18th, $93.00 ods of increased risk for dehydration

6
 2018 September
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
3 4 5 6 7
Closed for Labor Day
We are closed 9.00-Pool
9.00-Coffee Hour
9.00--Pool
9.00-Computer
9.00-Pool
9.00-Computer
due to State Pri- 9.00-Computer 9.00-Yoga ($5) 10.00-Crafts and Con-
9.00-Quilting Group 10.15 Bingo versation
mary Voting. 10.00-Health Care Plan- 11.45-Lunch-Hot Dog on 11.45-Lunch-Lasagna
ning-VCare Hospice Bun 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
10.30-Meditation 12.30-Scat
Don’t forget to 11.45-Lunch-Chicken Faji-
vote!! tas
1.00-COA Board Meeting
1.00-Pinochle
1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
10 11 12 13 14
9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool
9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour
11.00-Line Dancing 9:00-Art 9.00-Quilting Group 9.00-Computer 9.00-Computer
11.45-Lunch-Italian 9.00-Computer 9.00-SHINE-by Appointment 9.00-Yoga ($5) 10.00-Crafts and Con-
Braised Beef 9:00-Yoga ($5) 9.30—Chair Aerobics 10.15 Bingo versation
12.30-Balance and Des- 10.15-Bingo 10.30-Meditation 11.45-Lunch-Cold Roast 11.45-Lunch-Potato
sert-Quabbin Valley 11.45-Lunch-Ham Salad 11.45-Lunch-Roast Pork Beef Sandwich Crunch Fish
1:00 Tai Chi ($5) 12.30-Quilting Class- 1.00-Pinochle 12.30-Scat 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
Surprise Project 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
1.00-Scat-Cribbage
1.00-3.00-B/P Clinic
17 18 19 20 21
9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool
9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour
9.00-Computer 9:00-Art 9.00-Quilting Group 9.00-Computer 9.00-Computer
11.00-Line Dancing 9.00-Computer 10.30-Meditation 9.00-Yoga ($5) 9.00-North Quabbin An-
11.45-Lunch-Chicken 9:00-Yoga ($5) 11.45-Lunch-Turkey Cape 10.15 Bingo tiques –Road Show
Cacciatore 10.15-Bingo Cod 11.45-Lunch-Meatloaf w/ 10.00-Crafts and Con-
Health Care 11.45-Lunch-Baked Potato 1.00-Pinochle Gravy versation
1:00 Tai Chi ($5) 12.30-Consumer Affairs- 1.00-Tai Chi ($5) 12.30-Scat 11.45-Lunch-Mac 'n
2.00-Wii Online Safety Program 12.30-Movie-Al Clark Tour Cheese
12.30-Quilting Class 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
1.00-Scat-Cribbage

24 25 26 27 28
9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool
9.00-Coffee Hour 9:00-Art 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour
9.00-Computer 9.00-Computer 9.00-Quilting Group 9.00-Yoga ($5) 9.00-Computer
9.00-Pedi/Manicure, 9:00-Yoga ($5) 9.00-Computer 10.15 Bingo 10.00-Crafts and Con-
Reflexology-by appointment 9.30-FLU, SHINGLES, 9.30-Chair Aerobics versation
11.45-Lunch-Catch of the Day
11.00-Line Dancing PNEUMONIA SHOTS 10.00-Fallon Insurance 11.45-Lunch-Buttermilk
11.45-Lunch-Swedish 10.15-Bingo-Special 10.30-Meditation 1.00-Scat Chicken
Meatballs 11.45-Lunch-Pork Rib-i- 11.45-Lunch-Sloppy Joe 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
1:00 Tai Chi ($5) que 1.00-Pinochle
2.00-Wii 12.30-Quilting Class 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
1.00-Scat-Cribbage

October 1 2 3 4 5
9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Pool 9.00-Pool
9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Computer 9.00-Coffee Hour 9.00-Coffee Hour
9.00-Computer 9:00-Art 9.00-Quilting Group 9.00-Computer 9.00-Computer
11.00-Line Dancing 9.00-Computer 10.30-Meditation 9.00-Yoga ($5) 10.00-Crafts and Con-
11.45-Lunch- 9:00-Yoga ($5) 11.45-Lunch- 10.15 Bingo versation
1:00 Tai Chi ($5) 10.15-Bingo 1.00-Pinochle 11.45-Lunch- 11.45-Lunch-
2.00-Wii 11.45-Lunch- 1.00-Tai Chi ($5) 12.30-Scat 1.00-Tai Chi ($5)
12.30-Quilting Class
1.00-Scat-Cribbage

7
Many people think falls are a normal part of aging. The truth is, they’re not. Most falls can be prevented—and
you have the power to reduce your risk.
Exercising, managing your medications, having your vision checked, and making your living environment safer
are all steps you can take to prevent a fall. Every year on the first day of fall, we celebrate National Falls Pre-
vention Awareness Day to bring attention to this growing public health issue. To promote greater awareness and
understanding here are 10 common myths—and the reality—about older adult falls: Myth 1: Falling happens to
other people, not to me. Reality: Many people think, “It won’t happen to me.” But the truth is that 1 in 4 older
adults fall every year in the U.S.
Myth 2: Falling is something normal that happens as you get older. Reality: Falling is not a normal part of ag-
ing. Strength and balance exercises, managing your medications, having your vision checked and making your
living environment safer are all steps you can take to prevent a fall.
Myth 3: If I limit my activity, I won’t fall. Reality: Some people believe that the best way to prevent falls is to
stay at home and limit activity. Not true. Performing physical activities will actually help you stay independent, as
your strength and range of motion benefit from remaining active. Social activities are also good for your overall
health.
Myth 4: As long as I stay at home, I can avoid falling. Reality: Over half of all falls take place at home. Inspect
your home for fall risks. Fix simple but serious hazards such as clutter, throw rugs, and poor lighting. Make sim-
ple home modifications, such as adding grab bars in the bathroom, a second handrail on stairs, and non-slip
paint on outdoor steps. Myth 5: Muscle strength and flexibility can’t be regained. Reality: While we do lose
muscle as we age, exercise can partially restore strength and flexibility. It’s never too late to start an exercise
program. Even if you’ve been a “couch potato” your whole life, becoming active now will benefit you in many
ways—including protection from falls.
Myth 5: Muscle strength and flexibility can’t be regained. Reality: While we do lose muscle as we age, exer-
cise can partially restore strength and flexibility. It’s never too late to start an exercise program. Even if you’ve
been a “couch potato” your whole life, becoming active now will benefit you in many ways—including protection
from falls.
Myth 6: Taking medication doesn't increase my risk of falling. Reality: Taking any medication may increase
your risk of falling. Medications affect people in many different ways and can sometimes make you dizzy or
sleepy. Be careful when starting a new medication. Talk to your health care provider about potential side effects
or interactions of your medications.
Myth 7: I don’t need to get my vision checked every year. Reality: Vision is another key risk factor for falls. Ag-
ing is associated with some forms of vision loss that increase risk of falling and injury. People with vision prob-
lems are more than twice as likely to fall as those without visual impairment. Have your eyes checked at least
once a year and update your eyeglasses. For those with low vision there are programs and assistive devices
that can help. Ask your optometrist for a referral.

Barre Senior Center

40 West Street, Suite 433
557 South Barre Road
Barre, MA 01005
SEPTEMBER 4TH PRIMARY ELECTION REMINDERS FOR BARRE RESIDENTS
POLLS WILL BE OPEN FROM 7AM TO 8PM
PRECINCT ONE VOTERS WILL VOTE AT THE SENIOR CENTER – 557 SOUTH BARRE RD
PRECINCT TWO VOTERS WILL VOTE AT THE AMERICAN LEGION POST 2 – 450 SOUTH BARRE RD
Unenrolled voters or voters enrolled in political designations can ask for any of the 3 party ballots on Primary Day (Democrat,
Republican or Libertarian), but someone registered in a party can only vote on that party’s ballot, for instance, a Democrat can-
not take a Republican ballot and a Republican cannot take a Democratic one and a Libertarian can only take a Libertarian Ballot.
Persons who are United States Citizens, residents of Barre Massachusetts, and who will be at least
18 years old on or before September 4th are eligible to vote, if registered. Those meeting these
qualifications who have a Massachusetts Driver’s License can review their registration online at
www.RegisterToVoteMA.com.
UPCOMING ELECTIONS