FREE MEDICINE???
The ads from 'FREE MEDICINE FOUNDATION' may be somewhat misleading. The Medicine Foundation charges a $10 fee to investigate the patient assistance programs for each medication, and applications online require the applicant log in all their bank account information (routing and account numbers).
Patient assistance programs are intended to offer free or low cost medications with no application fee and safety is a concern if prescriptions are purchased outside of the United States. MassMedLine is a free, confidential service, and is a public service collaboration between the Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
MassMedLine has concerns about the safety of these online programs and believes this is not the best value for consumers. MassMedLine is available to all Massachusetts residents seeking information about their medications. By calling the toll-free help line (1-866-633-1617), you can speak to pharmacists and case managers one-on-one to receive personal assistance with answering your pharmacy related questions or finding programs to help with the cost of your medications.
THE DONUT HOLE
Are you reaching the donut hole? This year thousands of seniors in Massachusetts have already reached the
gap in their prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D) often known as the "donut hole." They reached this gap when their total (retail) prescription drug costs reached $2,510. From that point on, the next $3,200 in prescription drug costs are not covered by Medicare! This doesn't have to happen to you. Prescription Advantage can help. Prescription Advantage, the state's pharmacy assistance program, can help to pay for your prescription drugs if you reach that donut hole. Call Prescription Advantage today at: 1-800-AGE-INFO (1-800-243-4636) or speak to your local SHINE Counselor to learn how Prescription Advantage can keep you out of that donut hole!
SIT & BE FIT EXERCISE -
Exercise is for everyone! This new program is designed for people who have arthritis or limited mobility. Arthritis Foundation certified instructor Sue Ribeiro leads the group.
The seated exercise program uses exerbands, ribbon sticks, hand weights, and other movement activities that help promote balance, coordination, flexibility, and endurance. The program is fun and interactive.
Van transportation is available for the Monday morning classes which are held from 9:30-10:30 a.m. The cost is $1 per class
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ADULT IMMUNIZATIONS
Adult immunizations are available through Foxboro Board of Health. Pneumococcal (pneumonia) immunizations and Td boosters are available. If you are not sure whether you have had a pneumococcal immunization, or when you received you last Td booster, contact your physician. You need this information before scheduling an appointment at the clinic. If you are interested in receiving one of these immunizations at a Board of Health clinic, contact Chris Delano, RN at 508-222-0118 X 2144.
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ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION
The Alzheimer’s Association has a Help line that is now available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to offer advice, emotional support, resources and referrals. They are starting new programs for people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. Elaine Silverio is the Early Stage Patient Coordinator. They also offer foreign language translation on the Help line. Call 1-800-548-2111 anytime.
Aside from cancer, Americans fear getting Alzheimer’s disease more than any other diseases including heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The recently published study conducted by Harris Interactive for MetLife entitled “MetLife Foundation Alzheimer’s Survey: What America Thinks” also revealed that people over the age of 55 fear Alzheimer’s even more than they fear cancer.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 4.5 million Americans currently have Alzheimer’s and that number is predicted to increase to 16 million by 2050. In Massachusetts alone, an estimated 140,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s. With the reality that the number of Alzheimer’s victims is only increasing, it is important to plan for the possibility of getting Alzheimer’s, however many people have taken no action to do so.
With no cure currently available, Alzheimer’s robs its victims of life, dignity and awareness of their surroundings. The study revealed that the disease is not well understood by many. Alzheimer’s is a complicated progressive brain disorder and education, understanding and knowledge of the disease can make a difference. The Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts Chapter in Watertown has a variety of resources such as the 24-hour helpline, a number of family and caregiver education programs, and early stage programs that are available. Through these programs the Association is able to educate and support both patients and families.
Alzheimer’s can take a high monetary toll. The cost to care for a person with Alzheimer’s – with the average person living about eight years after onset – is around $200,000. Very few people take the appropriate planning steps. A large number of people have no financial arrangements prepared for the possibility of getting the disease, they have not discussed the issue with their families, and many have not looked at care options.
Knowing and being ready to take on Alzheimer’s can lessen the impact. For more information, call the Alzheimer’s Association Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 or visit www.alzmass.org.
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REIKI / REFLEXOLOGY SESSIONS
Ann Callahan, Licensed Massage Therapist, Clinical Reflexologist, and Reiki Master, offers Massage Therapy, Reiki, and Reflexology treatments at the senior center every Friday from 10:00-12:00. Fifteen-minute appointments are available for $10.00.
Please call the senior center at 508-543-1252 to schedule an appointment. When signing up, please be sure to indicate whether your appointment is for Massage, Reiki, or Reflexology. If you haven’t yet experienced these wonderful treatments, this is a great opportunity to find out how fantastic they are!
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TAI CHI and Yoga
For the summer months, Tai Chi classes will be held at the Chapel Meetinghouse at 56 Mill Street. Classes will be at 9:00 a.m. and are $5 per session. The schedule is as follows: Thursday, July 10th; Thursday, July 17th; Thursday, July 24th; Thursday, July 31st; Tuesday, August 5th; Thursday, August 14th; Thursday, August 21st; and Thursday, August 28th.
Please welcome Jeanne Donnelly as our new instructor. Jeanne has been teaching exercise for many years. In addition to her Tai Chi and Yoga instruction, Jeanne is a personal trainer and teaches classes in Qi Gong.
Classes will be on Mondays for $5 per session. Take advantage of this great opportunity to try something new and fun for your general well-being. Come ready to move and stretch in your loose clothing and sneakers or comfortable, flat shoes. Please call the senior center at 508-543-1252 to sign-up.
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BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC
Blood Pressure clinics are held on the 2 nd Tuesday of every month. Transportation is available. This is a free clinic and is open to Foxborough residents of all ages by appointment only. Please call the office at 508-543-1252 to set up an appointment.
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PODIATRIST
Dr. Willinsky, Board Certified by American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics, will be at the senior center the first Monday of every month at 12:00 noon.
Clients will be seen on a first come, first served basis. The cost to see Dr. Willinsky is $20.00 per person and checks can be made out directly to Dr. Willinsky. The Van-Go is available for anyone needing transportation … call 508-543-1252 to arrange a ride.
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PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE
The Public Health Nurse is available the 3 rd Tuesday of every month from 3 – 4 p.m. at Foxboro Town Hall, Selectmen’s Room. The nurse will be available for Blood Pressure and Blood Sugars on a walk in basis, and Immunizations by appointment only. For an Immunization appointment, call Chris Delano, RN at 508-222-0118 x 2144.
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MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION
Foxfield Taxi Corporation is providing transportation to Boston on Mondays from 9 a.m. -12 noon and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 12 noon. In addition, transportation is available to Sturdy Hospital in Attleboro, and Providence area medical facilities. Please call for scheduling information. A voluntary and confidential donation is appreciated. The suggested amount of the donation is $10 round trip. No person will be denied service because of an inability to donate. For more information or to reserve a ride call 1-800-585-8294. A 24-hour notice is required.
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FISH Transportation
FISH of Foxboro is a free, confidential, five-day service that provides transportation to Foxboro residents. FISH consists of a group of volunteer drivers who will take seniors to doctor appointments within an 11-mile radius of Foxboro. For seniors who are in need of a ride please call 508-698-3729. They require at least 2 days and a maximum of 4 days notice of your appointment. Also, when leaving your message, please state the day and date of appointment, time of appointment, name and location of doctor or hospital, your address and your phone number.
The FISH volunteers would really appreciate additional volunteer drivers to help them out with driving once a month. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or would like additional information, please call Merle Caton at 508-543-5635.
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DENTIST LOCATOR
Lasting Impressions is a program sponsored by the Massachusetts Dental society to promote the importance of good oral health for senior citizens. To locate dentists who provide senior discounts, log onto www.massdental.org and click on Find A Dentist in the Public sector, or you can call the Massachusetts Dental Society at 1-800-342-8747. With affordable dental care, visiting your dentist can be as relaxing as a day at the beach!!
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PRESCRIPTION DISCOUNT
If you are a member of AAA, you can present your card at most pharmacies for a discount of 10 – 20 % on your prescriptions depending on the medication.
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PROJECT LIFESAVER
Foxboro has signed onto a new nationally recognized search and rescue program for people with Alzheimer’s or other disabilities who tend to wander and get lost called Project Lifesaver. The program is for Foxboro residents of any age who may fall into this category. Sheriff Michael Bellotti is the state coordinator for Project Lifesaver. If you are interested in signing up a loved one who requires 24 hour care, please call the community social worker, Noreen Sherys at 508-543-1252. She will do an initial screening and then refer you to the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office for a complete assessment. There is an initial fee and a monthly fee for the monitoring equipment.
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Wheel Chairs Needed
Foxborough Council on Aging and Human Services accepts donations of durable medical equipment to lend out to anyone in the community in need. We’re currently looking for more wheelchairs with footrests. Donations of wheelchairs with footrests can be brought to Foxborough COA & HS located in the Senior Center at 75 Central Street. We are always so thankful and appreciative of the continued support, kindness, and generosity of the residents of Foxboro!
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MERCK PATIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
Merck Drug Company offers Patient Assistance Programs to help make medications more affordable, and in some cases free, to people without any insurance or prescription coverage, regardless of age.
Merck Prescription Discount Program for the uninsured offers savings of 15% - 40% off Merck medications regardless of income.
Merck Patient Assistance provides free medication to people who are uninsured, have a financial hardship, and cannot afford to pay for needed Merck medicines.
Call Merck at 1-800-727-5400 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. E.S.T. to speak with a representative, or visit www.merck.com and click on Patient Assistance Programs. Thanks to Sonja Spier for requesting we highlight these programs!
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DISCOUNTED DENTAL PROGRAM FOR SENIORS
Under the Elder Dental Program local dentists volunteer to treat low-income seniors at a significantly reduced rate. In order to participate in the Elder Dental Program, seniors must contact the program manager, Gwen Stewart, who will determine if they qualify for the program and will gather any needed supportive documentation. This program is for residents of southern Norfolk County, age 60 or over. If you, or someone you know, would like to apply, please contact Gwen Stewart at 1-781-769-3710.
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PRESCRIPTION ADVANTAGE
Do you have a prescription plan, but think you are still paying too much for your prescriptions? You may be paying more than you need to. You may be eligible for the Commonwealth’s “Prescription Advantage” plan, which is currently enrolling new members. If your income is under $51,050 (individual) or $68,450 (couple), you may be able to reduce some of your prescription expenses. Call Noreen Sherys at the senior center,
508-543-1252, to find out more, or to apply.
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VISUALLY IMPAIRED / HARD OF HEARING
The senior center now has available a wonderful catalog of products for the visually impaired and hard of hearing. If you or someone you know would like information on these “LS&S” (Learning, sight & sound made easier.) products, please stop by the senior center and pick up a copy of this catalog to take home.
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MEDICATION AND SAFETY VISITS
VNA Care Network and hospice is offering medication and safety visits in the homes of chronically ill, frail seniors. A nurse will visit the senior at home to evaluate their prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal remedies for interactions and related safety concerns.
The nurse will also assess the risk of falling and make recommendations for reducing the chance of a fall.
This is a free service and is open to residents of Canton, Dedham, Foxboro, Medfield, Millis, Norfolk, Norwood, Plainville, Sharon, Walpole, Westwood, and Wrentham.
For more information about medication and safety visits, contact Maureen Sendrowski, RN, MPH, at msendrowski@vnacarenetwork.org or 888-663-3688, ext. 5603 OR call Noreen Sherys at the senior center at 508-543-1252.
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