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.
Unless otherwise noted, all COA programs will be virtual, via Zoom. Call 978-456-4120 to get the links.
War monument panel discussion
On Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 1 p.m. via Zoom, learn from Jon Schoenberg and Pat Jennings of Harvard’s War Monument Restoration Committee as they discuss the group’s efforts to erect a new monument on the Common, restoring the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam War monument. The new monument will include the names of Harvard veterans of those wars as well as Gulf War era veterans. Hear stories of the efforts it took to track down names of the veterans.
‘The Gray Divorce’
Couples over the age of 60 who are divorcing after a long marriage face particularly challenging issues. On Thursday, Nov. 12, at 6 p.m. via Zoom, Renée Senes, a certified divorce financial analyst and author of “Money and the Gray Divorce,” will speak about the unique challenges of divorcing later in life.
Relaxation yoga
On Wednesday, Nov. 18, at 4 p.m. via Zoom, Barbara Rich, M.Ed., will lead another free stress reduction class focusing on mindful breathing, easy stretching, and useful strategies for accepting who and where we are.
Keeping the holidays in perspective
Hear from Jillian Reed and other professionals from Advocates Community Counseling Monday, Nov. 16, at noon, on how to get through the holidays and the next few months dealing with anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Advocates Community Counseling is an outpatient clinic offering services to all ages. It deals with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use.
How to best use emergency services
Would you like to meet some of our local EMTs? Are you hesitant to call 911 during COVID? When should you call 911, and what should you do after you call? Get answers to these questions and more, and meet our panel of local EMTs Thursday, Nov. 19, at 6 p.m. We will also discuss the File of Life and MOLST (Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment).
Fuel assistance starts
The heating season is here, and applications for the state fuel assistance program can be made starting Nov. 1. The state gross annual income limit for fuel assistance is $39,105 for a household of one and $51,137 for a household of two. Harvard also offers a HEAT (Harvard Energy Assistance Team) program that begins Nov. 1. If you are concerned about paying your heating bill, call 978-456-4120.
SHINE offers health insurance advice
Are you thinking about changing your Medicare Advantage or Medigap supplement plan? Are your prescription costs unaffordable? Do you want to learn about Medicare savings programs for income-eligible beneficiaries? The annual Medicare open enrollment period, Nov. 15 to Dec. 7, is the best time to compare plans, costs, and benefits. Due to COVID-19 there will be no in-person SHINE counseling this season, but you may call the COA office to schedule virtual appointments with SHINE representatives. Appointments are available Nov. 3, 10, and 17.
Registry of Motor Vehicles Senior Days
Massachusetts law requires drivers who are age 75 or older to renew their driver’s license in person. The Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has designated Wednesdays during November and December at 17 service centers to assist seniors. The two RMV centers closest to Harvard are in Leominster and Worcester and appointments are available by reservation. Make an appointment at www.mass.gov/rmv or by calling 857-368-8005. AAA members may also make appointments to renew driver’s licenses at any AAA location. See www.aaa.com/appointments to schedule a visit.
Men’s and women’s coffee on the porch
Come to the Hildreth House porch to enjoy an informal gathering with friends. All are welcome. Safety guidelines must be followed. All must wear masks, use hand sanitizer, and stay 6 feet apart.
- Men’s Coffee: Wednesdays at 9 a.m.
- Women’s Coffee: Fridays at 10 a.m.
Vet Café
Veterans are invited to join other vets for coffee and conversation the second Tuesday of each month, 9 to 10 a.m. This month the Vet Café will be Tuesday, Nov. 10, and there may be something extra special for guests. Call to sign up for the month’s café.
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 a.m.
- Line dancing: Monday, 10:15 a.m.
- Tai chi: Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m.
- Stretch and tone yoga: Tuesday and Friday, 9:30 a.m.
