To sign up for any Council on Aging event or program, to reserve a seat on the COA van, or for more information, call 978-456-4120.
Ongoing COA offerings
- Adopt a Senior: Volunteers matched with homebound seniors for regular check-ins and errands.
- Meals on Wheels: Deliveries to those who are homebound and those who regularly have come to COA congregate meals.
- Outreach check-in calls: Calls to see if anything is needed, whether it’s to find a volunteer to shop, make referrals to agencies, or just to talk.
- Van transportation: The van is available for medical and other appointments.
Grab ’n’ go lobster rolls
The COA will offer lobster salad rolls prepared by Chef Bill Ference Thursday, Aug. 20. Pickup at 2 p.m. at Hildreth House. Participation is limited; signup is required by Aug. 13.
Eating healthy during the pandemic
On Thursday, Aug. 27, at 10 a.m. Denise Mercury, a nutritionist from Minuteman Senior Services, will discuss eating healthy during the pandemic. She will offer suggestions for meal planning, shopping, and cooking.
Social Security Administration services
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offices are closed to walk-in visitors, but it continues to provide services. Representatives can help by phone at 877-319-0728, and several secure online services are available. You may check the status of an application or appeal, request a replacement Social Security card, print a benefit verification letter, and more.
Make sure you have a File of Life form!
Medical emergencies can happen anytime, often accompanied by confusion, panic, and urgency. Paramedics arrive with no information about the person in need, and seconds can make the difference between life and death.
A File of Life card provides needed information, including prior medical conditions, allergies, medications, and names of contacts. The COA wants to be sure that everyone has a completed form located both on their refrigerator and in their wallet. Call the COA to request a form.
Van transportation guidelines
- Call 978-456-4120 to schedule a ride. Please give the COA at least 48 hours notice.
- There is a nominal fee for van use. Fee is expected at time of ride.
- If you are having a procedure that requires sedation or dilation of eyes, etc. make sure you have someone to escort you home.
- If you have symptoms of any virus, have traveled outside the country recently, or have been with anyone who has traveled/had symptoms, you may not use the van for at least 14 days.
- The van is disinfected daily and between riders. No more than one client is permitted in the van at a time (aide is allowed if needed). Driver and riders must wear masks.
Computer workshops
Join our computer volunteer, Adam, Friday, Aug. 7, at 11:30 a.m. for a refresher class on using social media websites such as Facebook and Next-door. All you need is your laptop or tablet to participate. Class size is limited; call the COA and provide your email address to sign up.
Although we will be using Zoom for the presentation, we will not be teaching Zoom concepts. If you would like instruction in using Zoom, please call the COA.
Online fitness classes
All fitness classes are being offered online. Call for a Zoom invitation or to learn more.
- Weight strengthening/aerobics: Monday and Wednesday, 9 to 10 a.m.
- Line dancing: Monday, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.
- Tai chi: Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m.
- Stretch and Tone Yoga: Tuesday and Friday, 9:30 a.m.
Is your house number visible?
Massachusetts General Law specifies that every building in the state must have a clearly visible address number posted. Bromfield students are available to help by trimming bushes by your mailbox, delivering and attaching numbers to mailbox, or installing a post with numbers at a split driveway. Call the COA if you need help with house numbering.
Small meetings allowed on Hildreth House porch
Although Hildreth House is still closed to the public, small meetings are now allowed on the wraparound porch. Tables and chairs have been arranged to allow a safe social distance for up to 16 participants. The popular men’s coffee group, which has been meeting via Zoom for months, met in person for the first time last week.
See the list of regulations below for use of the porch.
Regulations for use of porch
- Masks must be worn at all times except when eating or drinking.
- Seats must remain 6 feet apart. Chairs must not be moved.
- Entering the building is not allowed, except by the wheelchair entrance, and only to use the downstairs bathroom. Masks must be worn.
- Each person is expected to wipe down all surfaces in the bathroom. Disinfectant wipes will be available.
- Each person must bring their own drinks/snacks. There is no sharing of food and drink. Coffee will not be available.
