Medical Equipment Program – Through the generosity of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and from the direction of Mayor Ballantyne, the Council on Aging can provide Durable Medical Equipment at no cost to Somerville residents.
Residents with a documented need for medical equipment must be over the age of 60, or have a permanent disability, and must be otherwise unable to afford or access needed medical equipment. We currently have available: Commodes, Bath Benches, Rollator Walkers, Incontinence Supplies and Transport Wheelchairs (wheelchairs are intended for transport and are not self-propelling or self-breaking.) For additional information, or for an application, please contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321.
Lockboxes for Seniors – What is the Lockboxes for Seniors program? The Lockboxes for Seniors program is intended to provide Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) access to your residence in the event of an emergency where you are unable to open the door. A key to your residence will be stored in a secure metal storage device, like a realtor’s lockbox, at your residence. The access code to the lockbox will only be available to Police, Fire, or EMS personnel and used only during an emergency. Who is eligible? The program is targeted towards Somerville community members who live alone and are aged 65+, or those who are disabled and/or suffer from major medical illness at any age. Individuals living in apartment complexes or other facilities with maintenance staff are not eligible for this program. How do I know this is safe? A member of the Somerville Fire Department will install and demonstrate how the lockbox operates and answer any questions you may have. The four-digit combination on the lockbox will only be available to respond to emergency personnel in the event of an emergency. Who should I contact for more information? For more information, please contact Debby Higgins at the Council on Aging via E-mail at dhiggins@somervillema.gov or by telephone at (617) 625-6600 ext. 2321. There is no charge to participate in the program if you meet the established target criteria. The Council on Aging will verify eligibility for services. This program is designed for those who are at most significant risk for falls or have limited mobility. All participants will be required to provide a spare house key to be used in the lock box as well as a safety inspection of the property.
Cultural Series Event – featuring Line Dancing Fun with DJ Hank– Tuesday, March 18th 11:00 a.m. at the Holland Street Center. $5 per person. Lunch will be served at noon (roast beef sandwiches, turkey chili & mixed veggies) – Reserve your spot for the event and lunch by calling Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321.
St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon – Thursday, March 13th starting at 11:00 a.m. at the George Dilboy Post located at 351 Summer Street. $10 per person. Join us for a performance by the Rebecca McGowan School of Irish Dance and a special meal (corned beef and cabbage.) Reserve your spot for the event and lunch by calling Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321.
Super Bingo – Tuesday, March 11th at our Holland Street Center starting at 10:00 a.m., lunch to follow – $5. For lunch – Bingo Cards are $8 for 3. Reserve your spot for the event and lunch by calling Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321.
Chronic Disease Self-Management Program – Mondays, March 31st, April 7th, 14th, 28th and May 5th and 12th starting at 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Ralph & Jenny Center. This program offers supportive workshops designed to help participants build confidence in managing their health and leading active, fulfilling lives. The workshop will be conducted in both Mandarin and Cantonese. RSVP by calling Yi Lam at SomerViva, 781-808-7346.
Shamrock Yarn Art – Monday, March 17th from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at our Holland Street Center. Join Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, Erica Curcio for a relaxing and crafty afternoon! RSVP by calling Molly Pagliuca at 617-625-6600, ext. 2318 or email Molly at mpagliuca@somervillema.gov
FDIC Money Smart – Identity Theft & Medical Identity Theft – Friday, March 14th starting at 11:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Representatives from Northern Bank will conduct a presentation on financial exploitation as part of their Money Smart series. RSVP to Natasha Naim by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2317 or email Natasha at nnaim@somervillema.gov
Intergenerational Fun with Tufts University Students – Friday, March 28th – Game Day followed by pizza starting at 10:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Friday, April 4th – Arts & Crafts followed by pizza. Additional dates include Friday, April 18th & 25th. RSVP to Maureen Bastardi at 617-625-6600, ext. 2335 or email Maureen at mbastardi@somervillema.gov
CHA presentation on Rehabilitation Therapies – Friday, March 14th at 10:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Cambridge Health Alliance will discuss physical, occupational and rehabilitation therapies and why they are important to your overall health. RSVP to Michelle Deutsch at 617-625-6600, ext. 2315 or email Michelle at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov
Senior Fraud with the Dept. of Homeland Security – Tuesday, March 25th at 10:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Sean Garvey, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigation will be doing a presentation on common frauds and will be available to answer questions on senior fraud. RSVP by calling Molly Pagliuca at 617-625-6600, ext. 2318 or email Molly at mpagliuca@somervillema.gov
Movie Day: Irish Wish – Friday, March 21st starting at 10:30 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. This month’s movie is “Irish Wish” starring Lindsay Lohen and Ed Speleers. The running time is 1 hour 33 minutes. RSVP by calling Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email Debby at dhiggis@somervillema.gov – $2.00 Pizza Lunch served after the movie.
De-Cluttering Group – will meet on Wednesdays, March 12th, 19th, 26th, April 2nd, 9th & 16th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Looking for assistance with taking control of your clutter. This six-week group teaches you how to address your mess and skills on how to let go of items. This group is open to Somerville and Cambridge residents. RSVP by calling Natasha Naim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2317 or email Natasha at nnaim@somervillema.gov
Having Fun with Kitchen Gadgets – Wednesday, March 19th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. This month we celebrate National Nutrition Month with a strong focus on eating healthy, being mindful of our overall health, and having the right tools on hand to accomplish the task. RSVP to Mary Marshall by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2316 or email Mary at Headtofitness10@yahoo.com
Food Safety Bingo & Prizes – Thursday, March 20th starting at 11:30 a.m. with lunch served at noon. To make a lunch reservation call 617-625-6600, ext. 2323. Lunch is free, voluntary donations are appreciated, $3 is suggested. Presented by dedicated SCES nutrition staff.
Do you have nutrition questions? Thursday, March 27th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the 2nd floor conference room at our Holland Street Center. Meet with a registered dietitian from Somerville Cambridge Elder Services. If you are interested in setting up a free one-on-one consultation with SCES dietitian, call 617-628-260, ext. 3054. Reservations required – limited spots available.
Left, Right, Center – Game Day – Friday, March 7th at our Holland Street Center starting at 10:30 a.m. LRC (Left, Right, Center) is a fun, fast-paced dice game that you won’t be able to put down! Players roll the dice to determine where they pass their chips. The last player with chips is the winner and wins the center pot. RSVP by calling Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email Debby at dhiggis@somervillema.gov
Technology Workshops – The Council on Aging continues to strive to close the technology gap by partnering with Somerville Cambridge Elder Services to bring technology workshops to the COA. Each session will focus on different topics related to internet use and safety.
Monday, March 3rd – Things you didn’t know you can do with your TV – This class is all about fun features that you may not know that your Smart TV can do and most of them are free.
Monday March 10th – Canva – Have you heard of Canva? It’s a site where you can create cards and other types of graphic design, for free.
Monday, March 17th – Declutter my stuff – Want to learn how to clean up your devices? Come to this class and we’ll show you how to clean up your devices so they will run better.
Monday, March 24th – Selling Online – Looking to sell things you don’t need anymore? This class will show you how!
Monday, March 31st – Sharing your stories – A workshop where we will discuss turning your favorite life stories into a blog.
If you have any questions or to RSVP contact Molly Pagliuca at 617-625-6600, ext. 2318 or email Molly at mpagliuca@somervillema.gov
Memory Café – Tuesday, March 4th starting at 2:00 p.m. at our Holland Street Center. A Memory Café is a safe space for those with cognitive decline and their caregivers. It is a place to gather and socialize without stigma or judgement. RSVP to Molly Pagliuca at 617-625-6600, ext. 2318 or email Molly at mpagliuca@somervillema.gov
Tech Time – Open Hours – Every Tuesday in March starting from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Receive assistance with all your phone, tablet and computer questions. RSVP by contacting Molly Pagliuca at 617-625-6600, ext. 2318 or email Molly at mpagliuca@somervillema.gov
Asian Tea – Rodent Control Informational Session – The second Monday of each month (March 10th) from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Our Ralph & Jenny Center located at 9 New Washington Street. RSVP to Maureen Bastardi by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2335 or email Maureen at mbastardi@somervillema.gov
Portuguese Coffee – The third Monday of each month (March 17th) from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at our Ralph & Jenny Center located at 9 New Washington Street. RSVP to Maureen Bastardi by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2335 or email Maureen at mbastardi@somervillema.gov
Knitting Group – Every Tuesday in March from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at our Holland Street Center located at 167 Holland Street. Have you always wanted to learn how to knit or are you a knitter looking to find other friends who knit? Look no further than Knitting with Natasha. Join a supportive and fun group as we learn more about knitting while knitting together! Please RSVP to Natasha Naim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2317 or email Natasha at nnaim@somervillema.gov
Coffee & Conversation Groups – Every Monday in March from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at our Ralph & Jenny Center located at 9 New Washington Street. And every Thursday in March at the Holland Street Center from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Join us for this staff-led discussion group which covers a range of topics thought up by participants. This is a friendly group, where all topics are discussed respectfully. Grab-n-Go lunch available. RSVP to Maureen Bastardi at 617-625-6600, ext. 2335 or email Maureen at mbastardi@somervillema.gov
Looking for a location to chat with your friends? Come to the COA on Thursday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., the senior center is open, and the coffee is on as we wait for the start of Bingo.
Bingo – Tuesday, March 4th & 25th at our Ralph & Jenny Center – starting at 10:00 a.m. Lunch is available following Bingo. RSVP to Debby Higgins by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2323 or email Debby at dhiggins@somervillema.gov
Bingo – Thursday, March 6th, 20th and 27th starting at 10:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Lunch is available following Bingo. RSVP to Debby Higgins by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2323 or email Debby at dhiggins@somervillema.gov
Music & Munch – Tuesday, March 25th starting at 12:00 p.m. at our Holland Street Center. This one-hour session will treat you to a playlist of diverse musical offerings: a little jazz, some “oldies but goodies,” a smidgen of classical, a dip into barbershop, a trip to Broadway. Learn a little, sing-along, relax and enjoy some Music while you Munch. Grab & Go lunch available. RSVP to Debby Higgins by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2323 or email Debby at dhiggins@somervillema.gov
Veteran’s Group – Tuesday, March 25th at our Holland Street Center starting at 10:30 a.m. New and returning members welcome. This group allows veterans to connect with their peers, discuss personal challenges and provide support. RSVP to Debby Higgins by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email Debby at dhiggins@somervillema.gov
Men’s Group – Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month (March 11th) starting at 10:30 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. A confidential space where men are free to speak openly and honestly about their lives, what’s happening and to support each other. RSVP to Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600 ext. 2321 or email Debby at dhiggins@somervillema.gov
Book Club – Meets the 3rd Friday of each month (March 21st) starting at 10:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Do you love books and want to discuss your love of reading with others? This month’s book is The Library of Burned Books by Brianna Labuskes. Consider joining the Book Club. The group meets in person and concurrently via Zoom. To RSVP or to inquire about the book club selection please call Natasha Naim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2317 or email Natasha at nnaim@somervillema.gov as space is limited.
Brown Bag Supplemental Food Program – PICK UP Thursday, March 27th from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at our Ralph & Jenny Center located at 9 New Washington Street. For an application contact Natasha Naim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2317 or email Natasha at nnaim@somervillema.gov
General Nutrition Classes – Mondays, March 10th, 24th and 31st from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. via Zoom and 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. in person at the Ralph & Jenny Center located at 9 New Washington Street. Wednesdays, March 5th, 12th and 19th in person at our Holland Street Center from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. RSVP to Mary Marshall by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2316 or email Mary at Headtofitness10@yahoo.com
Project Outlook – Thursday, March 27th at our Holland Street Center from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Project Outlook is a group for low vision and blind seniors to gather, socialize and enjoy dinner together. RSVP to Molly Pagliuca at 617-625-6600, ext. 2318 or email Molly at mpagliuca@somervillema.gov
Bowling – Every Wednesday in March at Flatbread Company/Sacco Bowl Haven in Davis Square at 45 Day Street from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. – Free – RSVP to Debby Higgins by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email Debby at dhiggins@somervillema.gov
LGBTQIA+ Allies Social – Thursday, March 13th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Meet with your peers and enjoy some pizza. RSVP to Maureen Bastardi at 617-625-6600, ext. 2335 or email Maureen at mbastardi@somervillema.gov
Virtual Reality Experiences – Travel Experience – Friday, March 14th at our Holland Street Center starting at 10:00 a.m. Mediation Experience – Monday, March 31st starting at 11:00a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Join us as we travel to different destinations and learn interesting facts about each place. Using ARPA funding directed to the Council on Aging by Mayor Ballantyne, the COA has partnered with Rendever, a Somerville based company focusing on the benefits of virtual reality in older populations. Studies have found that virtual reality can help reduce stress, decrease isolation, reduce pain and lower fall risk. Virtual reality is a 3D, computer generated simulation that is accessed through wearing a headset. Space is limited, but you will have many opportunities to participate in this two-year pilot program. RSVP to Molly Pagliuca at 617-625-6600, ext. 2318 or email Molly at mpagliuca@somervillema.gov
General Exercise classes are now on YouTube and City Cable! – In addition to our general exercise classes offered in person at the Holland Street Center and the Ralph & Jenny Center and our virtual classes via Zoom, the COA is now offering general exercise classes shown on GovTV and YouTube. An easy way to find the YouTube videos is to go to the city website: somervillema.gov, scroll all the way down until you see SOMERVILLECITYTV. Click on Somervillema.gov/Video, click on GOVTV or YOUTUBE then select the COA General Exercise Video of your choice or check out some of the other popular videos that are posted. You can also check out the videos on GOVTV – Comcast channel 22, Astound SD channel 13 and Astound HD channel 613. New exercise videos will be posted each month, we look forward to you exercising with us from the comfort of your own home, at a time that is convenient for you! For additional information regarding any of our fitness programs, please contact Michelle Deutsch at 617-625-6600, ext. 2315.
Zumba Gold – Every Wednesday in March starting at 11:30 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Zumba Gold® uses Latin and international rhythms and is a lower intensity version of Zumba®. It uses easy-to follow moves that focus on balance, range of motion, and coordination. The class is designed to develop cardiovascular endurance, muscular conditioning and flexibility while helping relieve arthritic pain. Join the party™ and let the music move you!RSVP to Michelle Deutsch at 617-625-6600, ext. 2315 or email Michelle at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov
Cardio Throwback – Friday, March 7th, 14th & 21st starting at 9:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Get moving and grooving while enjoying hits of the past. Inspired by retro aerobic legends such as Richard Simmons, Jane Fonda and Billy Blanks of Tae Bo. This class will blend dance, aerobics and martial arts in a simple yet effective way. Featuring low impact and easy to follow moves with gentle strength training, you will enjoy “sweatin’ to the oldies” in no time! RSVP to Michelle Deutsch at 617-625-6600, ext. 2315 or email Michelle at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov
General Exercise / Holland Street Center – Every Monday in March starting at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. and every Wednesday in March starting at 9:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Join Michelle as she leads a general exercise program. All levels of participants are welcome to attend. RSVP to Michelle Deutsch at 617-625-6600, ext. 2315 or email Michelle at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov
General Exercise / Ralph & Jenny Center – Every Monday in March starting at 3:00 p.m. at the Ralph & Jenny Center. Join Michelle as she leads a general exercise program. All levels of participants are welcome to attend. RSVP to Michelle Deutsch at 617-625-6600, ext. 2315 or email Michelle at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov
Virtual General Exercise Class – Every Wednesday & Thursday in March starting at 1:00 p.m. Please email Michelle Deutsch at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov for the Zoom link.
Virtual Exercise, Strength and Balance with John — Every Monday in March starting at 1:00 p.m. John Pecchia will be leading a class geared towards gaining strength and stability through balance exercises. Please email John Pecchia at jrpecchia@gmail.com for the Zoom link.
LGBTQIA+ Exercise Class – Virtual program on Thursdays via Zoom starting at 6:00 p.m. In person starting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 13th at our Holland Street Center. Please email Michelle Deutsch at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov for the Zoom link or call Michelle at 617-625-6600, ext. 2315.
Yoga with Louise – Tuesday, March 4th and 11th starting at 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. at our Holland Street Center. Easy-to-follow program lets you stretch and relax. Yoga provides modified, low-impact moves and easy-to-follow pacing for a healthy, active lifestyle! RSVP by calling Michelle Deutsch 617-625-6600, ext. 2315 or email Michelle at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov
Music & Movement – Tuesday, March 4th at 3:15 p.m. at our Holland Street Center. Join Steve as he plays guitar, sings and leads gentle movements. Just tapping your toe or singing along can help move your body in new ways. Please RSVP to Debby at dhiggins@somervillema. RSVP by calling Michelle Deutsch 617-625-6600, ext. 2315 or email Michelle at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov
Walking Club – Every Thursday in March – weather permitting- the group will meet at the Holland Street Entrance at 9:00 a.m. Walks average about an hour in length at a moderate pace. RSVP by calling Michelle Deutsch 617-625-6600, ext. 2315 or email Michelle at mdeutsch@somervillema.gov
Friendly Caller Program – We have many wonderful volunteers who are waiting to give you a call. Whether you are looking to make a new friend or would just like a friendly chat to look forward to every week, this program has you covered. Call Natasha Naim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2317 to learn more about the program and to sign up.
*The Ralph & Jenny Senior Center has a new phone number. You can reach the center by calling the city number at 617-625-6600, ext. 2336.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Stay connected via our Facebook page – Informative, entertaining, lots of photos and updates. Visit our page at https://www.facebook.com/SomervilleCOA/
Follow the Somerville Council on Aging on Instagram! You can find us under the Instagram handle: somervillecouncilonaging If you have any questions or need help following us, contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600 ext. 2321 or email her at dhiggins@somervillema.gov
JOIN OUR MAILING LIST
If you would like to receive a virtual copy of our monthly newsletter, please contact Maureen Bastardi at 617-625-6600, ext. 2335 or email Maureen Bastardi at mbastardi@somervillema.gov
If you would like to become part of our Google Group, please contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email Debby at dhiggins@somervillema.gov