The Council on Aging offices and the town’s senior center are located at 16 Lancaster County Road. To participate in classes, events, or programs listed here—or to ask questions about any COA service—call 978-456-4120.
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Hear from Life Care’s Joanne McCole Tuesday, Sept. 9, noon, about symptoms, treatments, and important research being done in the field.
Tour the Starrett factory and museum in Athol, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 9 a.m. The L.S. Starrett Company manufactures precision tools, measuring instruments, and saw blades for markets worldwide. The tour involves stairs and a lot of walking; solid-toed shoes are required. The tour and museum are free; bring cash for lunch afterward at Asia Gourmet.
Women’s core confidence. On Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 1 p.m., welcome Dr. Casey Bryson from Connections Physical Therapy for a presentation introducing women’s pelvic health and teaching exercises to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
See the Flying High Frisbee Dogs Wednesday, Sept. 17, 1 p.m., outdoors at the Charlie Waite field across from the senior center. This No. 1 dog entertainment act in the world is guaranteed to entertain. In case of inclement weather, the event will move to the senior center.
“Understanding the cloud” computer workshop. Join Adam in the computer lab Friday, Sept. 19, 11 a.m., for a presentation on cloud storage, discussion of providers, and live demonstration of Apple iCloud. Space is limited.
Tour Sunrise of Leominster assisted living Monday, Sept. 22, at 10:30 a.m., with lunch afterward. Hear about how caregivers provide individualized support with daily activities and programs in assisted living and memory care settings.
Core confidence classes with fitness instructor Nancy Webber will begin Tuesday, Sept. 23, 10:45 to 11:30 a.m., in person at the Congregational Church, 5 Still River Road. Exercises will strengthen pelvic floor muscles which can help with urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and more.
The Harvard Shakers will be the subject of a talk by author Ned Quist Tuesday, Sept. 23, 1 p.m. Quist’s upcoming book is “The Harvard Shakers and Their Cultural Landscape,” and his talk will include numerous historical and contemporary images of Shaker Village and offer a few unsolved mysteries.
You are the help until help arrives. Quick action by ordinary people can save lives during critical moments after accidents or disasters. Jen Schoenberg will lead a presentation Wednesday, Sept. 24, 10:30 a.m., on how bystanders can take action before professional help arrives.
Movies for grown-ups. This month’s 2024, R-rated movie concerns a New York City writer whose comfortable, solitary life is thrown into disarray after she inherits a Great Dane named Apollo. At the Harvard Public Library, 4 Pond Road, Monday, Sept. 29, 1 p.m.
Wetlands protection. Harvard’s conservation agent Liz Allard will discuss wetland resource areas Tuesday, Sept. 30, 1 p.m.: what they are, why they deserve protection, and the role of the Conservation Commission.
Lake Winnipesaukee scenic railroad, Thursday, Oct. 9, 7:15 a.m. Climb aboard our private caboose on a two-hour foliage train ride leaving from Meredith, New Hampshire. Enjoy scenic beauty on a historic rail system dating back to 1848. Cost is $20, including bagged lunch. Snacks and beverages can be purchased on board. Limited to nine guests.
Fitness classes are free during September. This is the month to try tai chi, yoga, or specialty exercises to support your core, or perhaps learn Zumba or line dancing to country music.
Weekly grocery shopping. The van to Market Basket in Littleton departs Fridays, 10 a.m.
Congregate meals are served Tuesdays and Thursdays at noon at the senior center. Meals on wheels can also be arranged.
Avoid Medicare fraud. Take steps to protect yourself:
- Protect your Medicare number
- Review your quarterly Medicare statements
- Ask questions of health care providers
- Know the signs of a scam
- Report suspected fraud.
If you suspect Medicare fraud, don’t stay silent. Contact the Massachusetts Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program for free, confidential assistance at 800-892-0890.
Help with computers. Adam is available for one-on-one computer training or anything related to computers or technology. Call the COA (not Adam) for an appointment.
COA van guidelines. There is no fee for the use of the van. To schedule a ride, call the COA; 48 hours’ notice is requested. Wheelchair users must be accompanied by a companion.
Mart Connects now serves Harvard with subsidized transportation to nearby towns for any adult. Available seven days a week, 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Schedule one day in advance by 2 p.m. by calling 1-800-922-5636, option 4; a credit or debit card is required. This service cannot accommodate wheelchairs.
Note: This information was drawn from the COA’s monthly newsletter, which contains additional valuable information for Harvard’s older residents. Call the COA to receive the newsletter via email, or view it online at harvard-ma.gov/council-aging/pages/coa-newsletters.
