Bethel Citizen April 29, 2021
CORONAVIRUS
Nation-wide, over 2,000,000 COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered, and over 80% of adults over 65 have received at least one shot. Maine is one of the leading state in its percentage of population already vaccinated! Hooray! If you’re not there yet, FYI: * All ME residents over 16 years old are now eligible for vaccinations, and there are several good options for where you can get your shot - some without a prior appointment. * The Auburn Mall offers drive-in vaccinations. * FEMA has had a mobile clinic walk-up in the Windham Hannafords; watch news for when it will be there next. * If you’re a BFHC patient, you may call 824-2193 to make an appointment. * Bethel Walgreens offers vaccinations 9:00-5:00 all weekdays; to make an appointment: Walgreens.com or 800-925-4733. * You may make an appointment at the Rumford Community Hospital (520-2917). You may also visit the AFCI website for updated information: www.agefriendlybethel.org.
AARP suggests that it is harder these days to understand the best COVID practices to protect our loved ones and our communities. Many of us are fully vaccinated and eager to get together with family members and friends, while others are waiting (and waiting) to get an appointment for a shot.” FMI: https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2021/covid-vaccine-etiquette.html?
What will COVID-19 look like down the years? Will it disappear? Probably not, say scientists. Will it eventually evolve into something more similar to the flu or even the common cold? AARP has reported from scientists: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/covid-predictions.html?
Home SAFETY/ HOME CHORES
Do you want to remain safe in your home as you age? A free assessment on risks for falling in your home, with Occupational Therapist Brie Weisman, in collaboration with AFCI, will assess both your personal risk and that of your home. FMI: 824-4444.
Coming right up: an opportunity for student help with your outdoor spring chores! On June 5, the Telstar/Rotary Interact Club and AFCI will host the annual Handy Neighbor Chores Day. Get your request in soon by calling the AFCI number to reserve a slot.
AFCI phone: 207-824-4444, email: infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org. On the website are two pdf’s that can be emailed to you: the Resource Directory of local and statewide services, and AFCI’s flyer that describes our services. Watch on the website for an alert on the start-up of our N2N Rides Program.
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Bethel Citizen April 22, 2021
Vaccinations
Maine is one of the best states in its percentage of population already vaccinated! Are you still waiting for yours? If so, there are currently several options. If you’re a BFHC patient, you may call 824-2193 to schedule an appointment. You may also visit the vaccinateME site or call 1-888-445-4111. TV and radio broadcasts have updated information.
There has been lots on the news about the Johnson and Johnson vaccine that is temporarily paused for more testing. For more information on “Blood Clots: What They are and When They’re Dangerous”: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/blood-clots.html?
And for more information on “Already Got the J&J Vaccine? What You Need to Know Now”: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/johnson-and-johnson-vaccine-advice.html?
The latest scam alert from AARP is particularly despicable: SCAM artists are targeting people trying to sign up for the FEMA reimbursement for COVID-19 funeral expenses. FMI: https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance
From the website: “FEMA will not contact anyone until they have called FEMA or have applied for assistance. Do not disclose information such as the name, birth date or social security number of any deceased family member to any unsolicited telephone calls or e-mails from anyone claiming to be a federal employee or from FEMA. If you doubt a FEMA representative is legitimate, hang up and report it to the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or the National Center for Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. Complaints also may be made by contacting local law enforcement agencies.”
Home Assessments
You may benefit from a free assessment on risks for falling in your home – both your personal risk and that of your house. Occupational Therapist Brie Weisman collaborates with AFCI in taking this step to make it safer for older adults to stay in their homes. FMI: 824-4444.
Here’s an interesting sounding new book: Navigating Your Later Years for Dummies.
“Getting accurate information wasn't easy—until now. This book helps you and your family chart the next steps to live the life you choose—independent and in control.” (available at Amazon or Barnes and Noble)
(Who, me?) “Clutter has been linked to stress and anxiety and can even lead to overeating junk food and procrastinating,” as reported by AARP. https://www.aarp.org/home-family/your-home/info-2021/things-to-throw-away.html?
AFCI phone: 207-824-4444 (remember to call for student help with outdoor chores on June 5.) email: infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org.
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Bethel Citizen April 1, 2021
VACCINATIONS. Mainers can rejoice that we are among the top few states in the percentage of residents having received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The current eligibility age is 50, and the state is expecting significantly more vaccine, hoping to open vaccinations in mid-April to those 16 years old and over. But some are still frustrated at the scheduling process. If you are a patient of the Bethel Family Health Center, you may call 824-2193 to schedule a vaccination appointment. For additional current information: www.agefriendlybethel.org.
AND AFTER. If you’re lucky enough to have already had your vaccination, AARP has advice for “10 Things the Fully Vaccinated Need to Know.”
(https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/fully-vaccinated.html?)
The AFCI drivers have missed their riders in the N2N Rides program and are eager to be back in service. Please be assured that we are watching the science and local COVID situation carefully and will be resuming soon, with fully vaccinated drivers and riders. Watch for updates on our website (www.agefriendlybethel.org) and FaceBook."
COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES. Has the disappearance of snow revealed some needy spots on your property? Watch for more information about the Spring Handy Neighbors Day that Telstar’s Interact Club has scheduled for Saturday, June 5th. Be thinking about spring-related outdoor tasks that the students could complete to fulfill their community service requirements - waking up garden beds, removing sand from yards, setting up patio furniture, etc.
Qi Gong for Health & Wellness in the Annex of the Methodist Church - Mondays, April 5-May24, 9:00-10:15 am, with Jen DeRaspe. Covid-safe - socially distanced - space limited to 10 - pre-registration recommended. FMI: holisticcoachjen@gmail.com or 207-595-8260.
You may know someone interested in this note: We're looking for a person to share our active senior mother's home. No caretaking required--just a commitment to being there most nights. A chance to reduce your expenses and enjoy life in the country in one of Bethel's historic homes, with free private room/board/utilities/wifi/cable/garden space and swimming in the river! Contact Robin, 207-381-7986.
TIPS FROM AARP. Questions about the current round of stimulus checks? Ten myths about them: https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/info-2020/12-myths-about-stimulus-checks.html?
Do you shop at Walmart? “How to Save Money Shopping at Walmart” (https://www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-2021/walmart-shopping-tips.html?).
AFCI phone: 207-824-4444, email: infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org.
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Bethel Citizen March 25, 2021
COVID-19 INFORMATION. There is still lots of breaking news on the COVID-19 situation – especially, now, how to get vaccination appointments. We have gathered the latest news to keep on our website for reference. We keep it updated daily – so visit www.agefriendly.org, if you still have questions about the disease, vaccination appointments, and after vaccination. (While you’re there, take a short tour of the site; you may be surprised at all the information collected there.)
Trouble scheduling an appointment? Contact MaineHealth COVID Vaccine Assistant (Westbrook, Scarborough, Sanford, Boothbay Harbor, Rockport, Belfast, Norway, Farmington, Brunswick, North Conway, New Hampshire).
877-780-7545, https://vaccine.mainehealth.org/
Need a ride to an appointment? Maine DHHS free rides for Maine residents who do not have access to reliable transportation to get to their vaccination appointment.
MaineCare members call: 1-855-608-5180
All other Maine residents call: 1-855-608-5172
The next Community Supper at the Bethel Alliance Church is March 31, 4:30-6:00. Coronavirus precautions are in effect, and food is delivered to your vehicle. If you cannot drive, you may request your supper to be delivered to your home. Call 824-4444 to make a request from the AFCI Neighbor to Neighbor program. Please make your request at least two days before the supper and leave a message with your name and address. Someone will call you to confirm. Deliveries are made to your door (not inside) between 4:30-5:00.
The Maine Gerontological Society (MGS) has launched a state-wide photography contest, Focus on Real Aging in Maine (F.R.A.M.E.), to refocus and reframe the way we view older Mainers by highlighting positive, realistic portrayals of aging in Maine. Photographs will celebrate the diversity of older Maine residents’ lives and their contributions to Maine towns, economic vitality, and way of life. All photographers—both professionals and amateurs of all ages—are invited to submit images for consideration. FMI: visit the MGS website (https://mainecenteronaging.umaine.edu/maine-gerontological-society/) or the MGS Facebook page.
What Is the IRS Timeline to Send the Third Stimulus Checks? For AARP’s answer:
https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/info-2020/irs-timeline-to-send-stimulus-funds.html?
Will I Owe the IRS Tax on My Stimulus Payment? The short answer is ‘no.’ AARP offers more details: https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/info-2020/are-stimulus-checks-taxed.html?
More information on AFCI programming is listed on our current flyer, available in the Bethel Foodliner. FMI: phone 207-824-4444, email infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org. We always like to hear your ideas or questions!
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Bethel Citizen March 18, 2021
Have you visited the AFCI website (agefriendlybethel.org)? There you’ll find – among many other things – the current flyer listing all AFCI programs; our Resource Directory, a handy resource for local and statewide services; and the last several AFCI columns in the Bethel Citizen. What’s new on the site is the home page’s “Hot off the Press,” where we put immediate notices or breaking news. Currently it includes COVID and vaccine updates from the Bethel Region.
For general COVID information: https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines and https://tinyurl.com/ycb5o2ux.
If you have a vaccination appointment and do not have transportation to get to the site, you may request a ride from the Maine DHHS (at least 48 hours before the appointment). MaineCare members should call 1-855-608-5180; other Maine residents: 1-855-608-5172. You should have information ready about the date and time of your appointment and the name, address, and phone number of the facility where you are receiving the vaccination.
Which COVID-19 Vaccine Should You Get? asks AARP (https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/which-vaccine-to-get.html?) Spoiler alert: The answer, health experts say, is get the one you can get, and get it now.
Fully Vaccinated? What the CDC Says You Should and Shouldn't Do Now
(https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/cdc-guidance-after-covid-vaccination.html)
Third Round of Stimulus Checks: Who Would Be Eligible for $1,400 Payments?
(https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/info-2021/third-stimulus-checks.html?)
Have you been watching a lot of TV and home movie options? AARP asks “Too Many TV Streaming Service Choices? Here's What You Need to Know”
(https://www.aarp.org/home-family/personal-technology/info-2019/new-tv-streaming-services.html?)
Local citizens are warning about fraud aimed at older adults who are not technologically savvy. If you know someone who might fall prey to this, please let them know that scams may range from car insurance to warrants for social security fraud or online banking errors – and more. Many ask you to send gift cards to a company, but gift cards should never be used in this way. People should be advised to speak with the agency directly, googling the customer service number and initiating the call themselves.
The programs of the Age-Friendly Community Initiative are listed on our current flyer, available in the Bethel Foodliner. FMI: phone 207-824-4444, email infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website: www.agefriendlybethel.org.
CORONAVIRUS
Nation-wide, over 2,000,000 COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered, and over 80% of adults over 65 have received at least one shot. Maine is one of the leading state in its percentage of population already vaccinated! Hooray! If you’re not there yet, FYI: * All ME residents over 16 years old are now eligible for vaccinations, and there are several good options for where you can get your shot - some without a prior appointment. * The Auburn Mall offers drive-in vaccinations. * FEMA has had a mobile clinic walk-up in the Windham Hannafords; watch news for when it will be there next. * If you’re a BFHC patient, you may call 824-2193 to make an appointment. * Bethel Walgreens offers vaccinations 9:00-5:00 all weekdays; to make an appointment: Walgreens.com or 800-925-4733. * You may make an appointment at the Rumford Community Hospital (520-2917). You may also visit the AFCI website for updated information: www.agefriendlybethel.org.
AARP suggests that it is harder these days to understand the best COVID practices to protect our loved ones and our communities. Many of us are fully vaccinated and eager to get together with family members and friends, while others are waiting (and waiting) to get an appointment for a shot.” FMI: https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2021/covid-vaccine-etiquette.html?
What will COVID-19 look like down the years? Will it disappear? Probably not, say scientists. Will it eventually evolve into something more similar to the flu or even the common cold? AARP has reported from scientists: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/covid-predictions.html?
Home SAFETY/ HOME CHORES
Do you want to remain safe in your home as you age? A free assessment on risks for falling in your home, with Occupational Therapist Brie Weisman, in collaboration with AFCI, will assess both your personal risk and that of your home. FMI: 824-4444.
Coming right up: an opportunity for student help with your outdoor spring chores! On June 5, the Telstar/Rotary Interact Club and AFCI will host the annual Handy Neighbor Chores Day. Get your request in soon by calling the AFCI number to reserve a slot.
AFCI phone: 207-824-4444, email: infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org. On the website are two pdf’s that can be emailed to you: the Resource Directory of local and statewide services, and AFCI’s flyer that describes our services. Watch on the website for an alert on the start-up of our N2N Rides Program.
-----------------------------------------
Bethel Citizen April 22, 2021
Vaccinations
Maine is one of the best states in its percentage of population already vaccinated! Are you still waiting for yours? If so, there are currently several options. If you’re a BFHC patient, you may call 824-2193 to schedule an appointment. You may also visit the vaccinateME site or call 1-888-445-4111. TV and radio broadcasts have updated information.
There has been lots on the news about the Johnson and Johnson vaccine that is temporarily paused for more testing. For more information on “Blood Clots: What They are and When They’re Dangerous”: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/blood-clots.html?
And for more information on “Already Got the J&J Vaccine? What You Need to Know Now”: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/johnson-and-johnson-vaccine-advice.html?
The latest scam alert from AARP is particularly despicable: SCAM artists are targeting people trying to sign up for the FEMA reimbursement for COVID-19 funeral expenses. FMI: https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance
From the website: “FEMA will not contact anyone until they have called FEMA or have applied for assistance. Do not disclose information such as the name, birth date or social security number of any deceased family member to any unsolicited telephone calls or e-mails from anyone claiming to be a federal employee or from FEMA. If you doubt a FEMA representative is legitimate, hang up and report it to the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or the National Center for Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. Complaints also may be made by contacting local law enforcement agencies.”
Home Assessments
You may benefit from a free assessment on risks for falling in your home – both your personal risk and that of your house. Occupational Therapist Brie Weisman collaborates with AFCI in taking this step to make it safer for older adults to stay in their homes. FMI: 824-4444.
Here’s an interesting sounding new book: Navigating Your Later Years for Dummies.
“Getting accurate information wasn't easy—until now. This book helps you and your family chart the next steps to live the life you choose—independent and in control.” (available at Amazon or Barnes and Noble)
(Who, me?) “Clutter has been linked to stress and anxiety and can even lead to overeating junk food and procrastinating,” as reported by AARP. https://www.aarp.org/home-family/your-home/info-2021/things-to-throw-away.html?
AFCI phone: 207-824-4444 (remember to call for student help with outdoor chores on June 5.) email: infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org.
----------------------------------
Bethel Citizen April 1, 2021
VACCINATIONS. Mainers can rejoice that we are among the top few states in the percentage of residents having received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The current eligibility age is 50, and the state is expecting significantly more vaccine, hoping to open vaccinations in mid-April to those 16 years old and over. But some are still frustrated at the scheduling process. If you are a patient of the Bethel Family Health Center, you may call 824-2193 to schedule a vaccination appointment. For additional current information: www.agefriendlybethel.org.
AND AFTER. If you’re lucky enough to have already had your vaccination, AARP has advice for “10 Things the Fully Vaccinated Need to Know.”
(https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/fully-vaccinated.html?)
The AFCI drivers have missed their riders in the N2N Rides program and are eager to be back in service. Please be assured that we are watching the science and local COVID situation carefully and will be resuming soon, with fully vaccinated drivers and riders. Watch for updates on our website (www.agefriendlybethel.org) and FaceBook."
COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES. Has the disappearance of snow revealed some needy spots on your property? Watch for more information about the Spring Handy Neighbors Day that Telstar’s Interact Club has scheduled for Saturday, June 5th. Be thinking about spring-related outdoor tasks that the students could complete to fulfill their community service requirements - waking up garden beds, removing sand from yards, setting up patio furniture, etc.
Qi Gong for Health & Wellness in the Annex of the Methodist Church - Mondays, April 5-May24, 9:00-10:15 am, with Jen DeRaspe. Covid-safe - socially distanced - space limited to 10 - pre-registration recommended. FMI: holisticcoachjen@gmail.com or 207-595-8260.
You may know someone interested in this note: We're looking for a person to share our active senior mother's home. No caretaking required--just a commitment to being there most nights. A chance to reduce your expenses and enjoy life in the country in one of Bethel's historic homes, with free private room/board/utilities/wifi/cable/garden space and swimming in the river! Contact Robin, 207-381-7986.
TIPS FROM AARP. Questions about the current round of stimulus checks? Ten myths about them: https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/info-2020/12-myths-about-stimulus-checks.html?
Do you shop at Walmart? “How to Save Money Shopping at Walmart” (https://www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-2021/walmart-shopping-tips.html?).
AFCI phone: 207-824-4444, email: infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org.
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Bethel Citizen March 25, 2021
COVID-19 INFORMATION. There is still lots of breaking news on the COVID-19 situation – especially, now, how to get vaccination appointments. We have gathered the latest news to keep on our website for reference. We keep it updated daily – so visit www.agefriendly.org, if you still have questions about the disease, vaccination appointments, and after vaccination. (While you’re there, take a short tour of the site; you may be surprised at all the information collected there.)
Trouble scheduling an appointment? Contact MaineHealth COVID Vaccine Assistant (Westbrook, Scarborough, Sanford, Boothbay Harbor, Rockport, Belfast, Norway, Farmington, Brunswick, North Conway, New Hampshire).
877-780-7545, https://vaccine.mainehealth.org/
Need a ride to an appointment? Maine DHHS free rides for Maine residents who do not have access to reliable transportation to get to their vaccination appointment.
MaineCare members call: 1-855-608-5180
All other Maine residents call: 1-855-608-5172
The next Community Supper at the Bethel Alliance Church is March 31, 4:30-6:00. Coronavirus precautions are in effect, and food is delivered to your vehicle. If you cannot drive, you may request your supper to be delivered to your home. Call 824-4444 to make a request from the AFCI Neighbor to Neighbor program. Please make your request at least two days before the supper and leave a message with your name and address. Someone will call you to confirm. Deliveries are made to your door (not inside) between 4:30-5:00.
The Maine Gerontological Society (MGS) has launched a state-wide photography contest, Focus on Real Aging in Maine (F.R.A.M.E.), to refocus and reframe the way we view older Mainers by highlighting positive, realistic portrayals of aging in Maine. Photographs will celebrate the diversity of older Maine residents’ lives and their contributions to Maine towns, economic vitality, and way of life. All photographers—both professionals and amateurs of all ages—are invited to submit images for consideration. FMI: visit the MGS website (https://mainecenteronaging.umaine.edu/maine-gerontological-society/) or the MGS Facebook page.
What Is the IRS Timeline to Send the Third Stimulus Checks? For AARP’s answer:
https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/info-2020/irs-timeline-to-send-stimulus-funds.html?
Will I Owe the IRS Tax on My Stimulus Payment? The short answer is ‘no.’ AARP offers more details: https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/info-2020/are-stimulus-checks-taxed.html?
More information on AFCI programming is listed on our current flyer, available in the Bethel Foodliner. FMI: phone 207-824-4444, email infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website www.agefriendlybethel.org. We always like to hear your ideas or questions!
----------------------------------------------------
Bethel Citizen March 18, 2021
Have you visited the AFCI website (agefriendlybethel.org)? There you’ll find – among many other things – the current flyer listing all AFCI programs; our Resource Directory, a handy resource for local and statewide services; and the last several AFCI columns in the Bethel Citizen. What’s new on the site is the home page’s “Hot off the Press,” where we put immediate notices or breaking news. Currently it includes COVID and vaccine updates from the Bethel Region.
For general COVID information: https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines and https://tinyurl.com/ycb5o2ux.
If you have a vaccination appointment and do not have transportation to get to the site, you may request a ride from the Maine DHHS (at least 48 hours before the appointment). MaineCare members should call 1-855-608-5180; other Maine residents: 1-855-608-5172. You should have information ready about the date and time of your appointment and the name, address, and phone number of the facility where you are receiving the vaccination.
Which COVID-19 Vaccine Should You Get? asks AARP (https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/which-vaccine-to-get.html?) Spoiler alert: The answer, health experts say, is get the one you can get, and get it now.
Fully Vaccinated? What the CDC Says You Should and Shouldn't Do Now
(https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/cdc-guidance-after-covid-vaccination.html)
Third Round of Stimulus Checks: Who Would Be Eligible for $1,400 Payments?
(https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/info-2021/third-stimulus-checks.html?)
Have you been watching a lot of TV and home movie options? AARP asks “Too Many TV Streaming Service Choices? Here's What You Need to Know”
(https://www.aarp.org/home-family/personal-technology/info-2019/new-tv-streaming-services.html?)
Local citizens are warning about fraud aimed at older adults who are not technologically savvy. If you know someone who might fall prey to this, please let them know that scams may range from car insurance to warrants for social security fraud or online banking errors – and more. Many ask you to send gift cards to a company, but gift cards should never be used in this way. People should be advised to speak with the agency directly, googling the customer service number and initiating the call themselves.
The programs of the Age-Friendly Community Initiative are listed on our current flyer, available in the Bethel Foodliner. FMI: phone 207-824-4444, email infoagefriendlybethel@googlegroups.com, visit our FaceBook page or website: www.agefriendlybethel.org.
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Age-Friendly Community Initiative PO Box 833, Bethel, ME 04217 207-824-4444 Photo credits: Craig Angevine, Eileen Broderick, Jane Chandler, Karen Reilly, Mac Davis. Website team: Cat Ingraham, Eileen Broderick, Mariann Goff, Nancy Davis, 
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