Add To Favorites

Bridges by EPOCH Mashpee

The Barnstable Patriot - 9/15/2017

Bridges by EPOCH Mashpee

Sept. 20, 27: Complimentary dementia counseling, 2 to 5 p.m. On Sept. 20: Alzheimer's Caregiver Support group, 4 p.m. For more information call 508-477-0043. Bridges by EPOCH is located at 462 Old Barnstable Road, Mashpee.

Healthy Aging

Sept. 21: Cape Heritage Rehabilitation & Health Care Center hosts the free program "Healthy Habits for Healthy Aging," with speaker Bridget Schenck, a licensed dietitian, 10 a.m. To RSVP, call 508-888-8222. Light refreshments served. Cape Heritage is located at 37 Route 6A, Sandwich. www.athenanh.com/capeheritage

Fall Fling

Sept. 24: Parkinson Support Network of Cape Cod hosts a Fall Fling, 4 to 8 p.m. at the Cape Codder Resort & Spa, 1225 Iyannough Road, Hyannis., with dinner, dancing, music by the Moonlighters and silent auction. $30, RSVP required. Call 800-651-8466.

Heart of Wellness

HOW offers complimentary heart wellness programs during the fall: Sept. 27: Documentary movie, "Food Choices" followed by a panel of nutrition experts and Q&A. Oct. 25: A wellness program titled "Inspire Health." Both programs free, and run from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Centerville Library, 585 Main St. Social time starts at 6:30 p.m. with healthy refreshments and heart health-related testing

Gait Evaluation clinic

Sept. 30: Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Cape Cod hosts a Gait Evaluation Clinic for Amputees, 10 a.m. to noon on the main hospital campus, 311 Service Road, East Sandwich. Space at the clinic is limited, advance registration suggested. For information, call 508-833-4197.

Behavioral Health Summit

Oct. 6: Fifth annual Cape Cod and Islands Behavioral Health Summit, "The Social Determinants of Behavioral Health: Awareness, Understanding and Action," 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Resort and Conference Center, Route 132, Hyannis. Keynote speakers are Kumara Sidhartha, MD, of Emerald Physicians, and Dan Millman, author of "A Peaceful Warrior's Approach to Behavioral Health." $60 includes lunch. To register, or for more information, visit www.bhccapecod.org/

HopeHealth bereavement support group

Spousal Loss: For adults who have lost a spouse or significant other in the last year: Every Wednesday, noon to 1:30 p.m. at HopeHealth, 765 Attucks Lane, Hyannis.

Savvy Caregivers

The Barnstable Senior Centerhas announced a fall session of The Savvy Caregiver Program, a free six-sessin training for family and friends who are active caregivers for those living with Alzheimer's or related dementias. The fall session will be held at the Barnstable Senior Center on Wednesdaoys, Oct. 4 through Nov. 8 from 1 to 2:30 p.m., led by co-facilitators Donna Burns and Stacey Cullen. It is open to all Cape Cod caregivers, and respite is available. Pre-screening is required. For a flyer with complete information, call Donna Burns at 508-862-4753.

County offers immunization program

The Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment now has a public immunization program that offers the following adult and adolescent immunizations: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, HPV, Influenza (Flu), Meningococcal, MMR, Pneumonia, Rabies (pre-exposure), Tdap, Tetanus, Varicella, Zoster (Shingles). The program also offers the following travel vaccines: Japanese encephalitis, Typhoid, Yellow Fever. Most insurance providers, including MassHealth and Medicare, cover immunizations. State-supplied vaccines are available at no cost to uninsured adults. The Federal Vaccine for Children (VFC) Program provides immunizations at no cost to children 18 and under with no insurance, MassHealth, or Medicaid coverage. The Public Immunization Program is available by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call 508-375-6617 to set up an appointment.

Free Yoga outdoors

Yoga instructor Bettina Brown offers free outdoor yoga this summer on the Yarmouth Port Green, 8 a.m. each Wednesday through Aug. 30. Bring your mat, sunscreen and water. Rain cancels. All ages are welcome.

HopeHealth Series

Education for Family Caregivers: Meets 2nd, 3d and 4th Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. to noon at HopeHealth, 765 Attucks Lane, Hyannis. Support Groups for Caregivers: Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays, 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Barnstable Council on Aging, 825 Route 28, Hyannis. More information: 508-775-5656.

Yoga Class

A new yoga class, designed for people with Parkinson's, meets every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to noon at Hyannis Youth and Community Center, 141 Bassett Lane, Hyannis. It's provided free of charge by Yoga Neighborhood. All welcome.

Headache clinic

The Integrative Medicine and Holistic Wellness Center offers a Cranial Therapy Headache Clinic on Wednesdays for those suffering from migraine or any chronic headache syndrome. At the center, 677 West Main St., Hyannis. For an appointment or free initial consultation, call 508-790-0606.

New wellness options at Spaulding

Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Cape Cod now offers new therapies to add to the rehab and recovery process: Restorative Yoga for All - meets Mondays and Wednesdays, 3 to 4 p.m. Meditation and Relaxation for All - meets Wednesdays, noon to 1 p.m. BoneStrong, an osteoporosis prevention program, meets Wednesdays and Fridays, 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. Tai Chi meets Tuesdays and Thursdays 11 a.m. to noon, and Arthritis exercise meets Tuesdays and Thursdays 2 to 3 p.m. All classes take place in the main hospital. For information or to pre-register, call 508-833-4197. Spaulding is located at 311 Service Road, East Sandwich.

Stroke Support Group

The VNA of Cape Cod holds a stroke support group open to residents of Cape Cod. The group meets from 2 to 3 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month in the library at Liberty Commons Rehab and Skilled Care Center, 390 Orleans Road, North Chatham. For more info, call Steve Franco: 508-945-4611, ext. 245.

Alzheimer's Education Series for Family Caregivers

On the 2nd, 3d and 4th Wednesday of each month, 10:30 a.m. to noon at HopeHealth, 765 Attucks Lane, Hyannis. Call for more information. 508-775-5656.

Educational support groups for caregivers

For caregivers affected by loved ones with Alzheimer's or related dementias, to share stories and receive information and guidance: Hyannis: 2nd and 4th Thursdays, 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Barnstable Council on Aging, 825 Route 28, Hyannis.

NAMI Local Support Groups

The National Alliance on Mental Illness Cape Cod and the Islands offers Support Groups at many locations on Cape Cod, for family and friends of people with mental illness: Barnstable meetings are held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on 3rd Tuesday at the St. Mary's Episcopal Church. for more information, Contact NAMI atm 508-778-4277 or visit www.namicapecod.org

Telehealth programs

Patients at the Community Health Center of Cape Cod can now participate in telepsychiatry visits from any of its three Cape locations (Falmouth, Mashpee, Bourne), connecting via video and audio teleconference to providers at any other Health Center site. This allows for real-time, interactive exams with the health provider at one location, the patient at another. To learn more about these telepsychiatry and other telehealth services, call 508-477-7090.

Learn to Cope

This is a support group for parents, family, spouses and caregivers of someone who is addicted to opiates, alcohol or other drugs. Meetings are weekly on Tuesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Yarmouth Police Dept. Community Room, 1 Brad Erickson Way (340 Higgins Crowell Road), South Yarmouth. For more information, call 508-738-5148 or visit www.Learn2Cope.org

Tumor treatment at Cape Cod Healthcare

A new state-of-the-art treatment for tumors is now available at Cape Cod Hospital. Microwave ablation, which offers an alternative to conventional surgical interventions, is a minimally invasive, highly effective option for some patients. Microwave ablation uses CT-guided probes and electromagnetic waves to precisely target and destroy tumors through a small incision. A procedure that typically takes an hour to perform, microwave ablation can be used as part of a day surgery treatment. This limits patient pain and may eliminate the need for an inpatient stay.

New Health and Wellness Service Directory

Barnstable County Department of Human Services has a local Service Directory containing service providers and organizations serving the health and human service needs of Barnstable County. The Public Health and Wellness (http://barnstable.ma.networkofcare.org/ph) site's comprehensive database provides search tools to access local resources on aging, disability, mental health, substance use, housing and many public health and human service areas. In addition to providing a comprehensive resource directory, this site is a companion to the Department's Behavioral Health (http://barnstable.ma.networkofcare.org/mh/index.aspx) web platform and online directory. End-of-life issues Medicare will reimburse physicians for discussing end-of-life issues with patients, and a new community group asks Cape Codders to think about this important subject. The Quality of Life Management Task Force, now led by VNA of Cape Cod nurse Tina Soares, has been formed to get the community talking about issues and measures to take in end-of-life situations. Soares, the program manager of the task force, welcomes individual and public input, and may be reached at tsoares@vnacapecod.org.

Nutrition know-how

Community Health Center of Cape Cod offers nutrition education to patients. Nutritionist and dietician Bethany Lebish is providing individual counseling, diet recommendations and weight and diabetes self-management programs as part of the center's program of continuing care. Centers are located in Bourne, Falmouth and Mashpee. 508-477-7090.

Gosnold support group

Gosnold Counseling Center, 1185 Rte. 28, Centerville, offers a grief and support group on Wednesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m., designed for those who have lost loved ones to addiction. For information, contact Mary Fisher at 844-558-4357 or visit www.gosnold.org.

Lymphedema support & discussion

Centerville Public Library, 585 Main St., hosts an ongoing Lymphedema Support and Discussion Group on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. The group is facilitated by a certified therapist and a certified oncology social worker. Call 508-862-7571 to register or for information on times.

Whole Person Approach

Dance in the Rain Peer to Peer Services has launched a series of programs for persons ages 14 and older on the Cape & Islands who have mental health challenges or dual diagnosis. Ongoing groups:

Mondays - "Peer to Peer," 3-4:30, Rendezvous Cafe, 394 Main St., Hyannis.

Tuesdays - Women's Group, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Dance int he Rain offices, 145 Barnstable Road, Hyanis.

Wednesdays - "Peer Support/Building Wholeness," 3 to 4 p.m., 145 Barnstable Road; "Igniting the Creative Mind" arts workshop, 145 Barnstable Road. Thursdays - Drop In Time, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m., 145 Barnstable Road. Fridays - Men's Group, 1-2:30 p.m., 145 Barnstable Road; "Peers in Motion," 3-4 p.m., same address. More information about programs at 508-364-4045; www.danceintherain-wpa.org.

KDC networking groups

The Kennedy Donovan Center, with offices in South Yarmouth, hosts several family support networking groups for support, advocacy, discussion and encouragement: A Self Advocacy Group for adults with special needs meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at the TGI Residence, 1236 Craigville Beach Road, Centerville. For a list of other area support groups, call Juliane Dillon at 508-385-6019 or email jdillon@kdc.orgAutism family support groupCape Abilities offers a free networking and support group open to everyone affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. All are invited to share experiences and ask questions. Meetings are monthly and held at their Lyndon Center location, 895 Mary Dunn Road, Hyannis. For times, meeting themes and details, please visit www.capeabilities.org/our-services/cape-abilities-homestead-center/, or email Glenn Loomis, at gloomis@capeabilities.org.

Support Group for domestic or sexual violence

Independence House and the GLBTQ Domestic Violence Project are offering a support group for individuals who identify as male, live on Cape Cod and are survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence. Call 800-439-6507 or e-mail Chris at chrism@indhouse.net or Chuck at capeadvocate@gmdvp.org

Open mic phone calls

Cape Organization for Rights of the Disabled invites you to join its open mic every Monday through Friday, 1 to 3 p.m. (except holidays). Help build a community of people with disabilities and their families, friends and caregivers in a support system that lets you share stories and obtain needed information. For more information, call CORD at 508-775-8300.

Specialized dental service available

Community Health Center of Cape Cod offers specialized dental services with an exam room specially equipped to service people in wheelchairs. Located at the center's Mashpee offices at 107 Commercial St., the facility offers a special wheelchair tilting device that allows patients to remain in their chairs rather than transferring to a dental chair. The staff also has training in caring for patients with physical or learning disabilities. For information or enrollment, call 508-539-6050.

Rehabilitation hospital offerings

Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Cape Cod in Sandwich hosts Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous meetings every Sunday 9:30 to 11 a.m.Overeaters Anonymous (general public) meets Tuesdays, 5 to 7 p.m. AA meets Saturdays, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.Sober Sisters AA Support Group meets Fridays, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. A support group addressing issues of early onset Alzheimer's meets the fourth Monday of each month, 4 to 5:30 p.m. A fibromyalgia support group meets the fourth Thursday of the month, 5 to 6:30 p.m. The aphasia support group meets the first Wednesday of the month, 10-11:30 a.m. The MS support group meets the third Sunday of the month, 1 to 3 p.m. A stroke survivors support group meets the second Wednesday of the month, 1:30 to 3 p.m. Parkinson's support group meets the fourth Wednesday of each month, 2 p.m.CC Spinal Cord Injury Support Group meets 1st Wednesday, 6-7:30 p.m. Hearing screenings are held the second Wednesday of each month by appointment, 508-833-4141. Specialty Rehab: Driver Assessment program: for those whose driving ability has been compromised by illness, injury or normal aging, 508-833-4141. Vibrant Voices: Monthly interactive speech group, Harwich Community Center, 508-240-7203. Vision Rehab Clinic, evaluation and treatment, 2nd & 4th Tues., 508-833-4141. Call 508-833-4008 for details on these and other programs. Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Cape Cod is at 311 Service Road, East Sandwich.

Parkinson's speech exercise group

Spaulding speech and language pathologist Lee Lacroix leads a monthly interactive speech group, "Vibrant Voices," at Harwich Community Center, 100 Oak St. The group is designed for people with Parkinson's disease who have completed a Lee Silverman Voice Treatment program within the last two years. Free screening prior to participation. 508-240-7203.

AA, Al-Anon, Alateen meetings

A listing of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in the local area is available at http://www.capecodaa.com/. A list of Al-Anon and Alateen meetings is at www.ma-al-anon-alateen.org. Click on "Find a Meeting" and enter a town or call the South Dennis office of Al-Anon at 508-394-4555.

PFLAG support group

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgenders (PFLAG) meets monthly in two locations to provide support, educate others and advocate for equal treatment. Meetings are the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at First Parish Church, Route 6A, Brewster, and the last Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Falmouth, 840 Sandwich Road, East Falmouth.

Open Wide for free dental care

The Tri-County Collaborative for Oral Health Excellence's Open Wide Preschool Dental Disease Prevention Program offers several preventive dental procedures at no cost, along with assistance in finding affordable dental care offices. Call BL Hathaway at 508-255-0009. The local Tri-CCOHE office is at 115 Enterprise Road, Hyannis.

Caregiver support program

The Family Caregiver Support Program at Elder Services of Cape Cod & Islands provides training and assistance for family caregivers. To determine eligibility, call 508-394-4630.

HIV/AIDS testing, counseling

The Cape Cod Free Clinic & Community Health Center offers free, confidential testing for HIV and AIDS at its Falmouth and Mashpee offices. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 508-477-7090.

Cape Cod Healthcare options for teens

The Kids and Teens Behavioral Health Assessment Center, 460 West Main St. in Hyannis provides families with behavioral health assessments and treatment plans, as well as referrals and information about behavioral health services. 508-790-5903.Dare to Be AliveDTBA hosts an education and support group for individuals interested in organ donation, which will meet at 6 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at Cape Cod Hospital in the Cape Cod Five room. All are welcome. 508-398-1260. Brain injury support group The Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts hosts a brain injury support group for survivors, caregivers and families. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at Mashpee Public Library, 64 Steeple St. 888-607-7678 or at www.biama.org. Alzheimer's caregiver support An Alzheimer's Community Caregivers Support Group meets on the third Thursday of each month from 3 to 5 p.m. at Harbor Point at Centerville, 22 Richardson Road, led by Tamara Peach, Harbor Point's program director. Free and open to all. RSVP to 508-778-2311. Free health screenings The Clinical Research Center of Cape Cod, 131 Attucks Lane, Hyannis, will hold free preventive health screenings for blood pressure and glucose on the second Thursday of each month from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 508-375-6360. Stretch your food budget Community Action Committee of Cape Cod & Islands can assist those who may be having a hard time putting affordable and nutritious meals on the table. All can apply for the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) - Call SNAP Outreach for more information or to set up an appointment: 508-771-1727 x 164. Overcoming ostomy problems The VNA of Cape Cod holds ongoing free ostomy clinics. The clinics will include a one-hour visit with a wound, ostomy and continence nurse. Clinics are held second and fourth Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to noon at VNA of Cape Cod, 434 Route 134, South Dennis. For an appointment, call 508-957-7476. Mended Hearts meets at CCH Members of the Mended Hearts group meet every third Thursday at 4 p.m. at Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis to discuss heart disease and share experiences. Those with heart disease and members of their family are welcome. Contact Tim Crane at 508-896-2560 or club president Pat Boris at 508-896-5941, or go to www.capecodmendedhearts.com. VNA offerings The Visiting Nurses Association, in conjunction with the Massachusetts chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, offers Young at Heart/PACE (People with Arthritis Can Exercise) at several Cape locations. A low-cost fee and a doctor's approval are required for participation. For more information on location or registration, or to observe a class, call 1-877-267-7700. Send us your news The Health section welcomes news of programs in Barnstable and surrounding towns, as well as achievements and events. Send your news to The Barnstable Patriot, ATTN: Health, PO Box 1208, Hyannis MA 02601; or by fax to 508-790-3997, marked HEALTH; or to listings@barnstablepatriot.com.