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Council On Aging FAQs

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1. Is there a membership fee to join the Council on Aging?

No. Most of our programs have a suggested donation of $3 per session. However, there are several that do have a fee. Check with our office if you are unsure.

2. How old must a person be to participate in Council on Aging (COA) programs?

Eligibility for our programs begins at age 60. However, if there is room in a particular class or activity, Marblehead residents under age 60 may also participate. Some programs, such as the Caregivers Group, are open to all ages. Check with the Center if there is a question. Transportation is also available for those under age 60 who are disabled for transportation purposes.

3. Where else can I find out about the Council on Aging and what it offers?

You can contact the Council on Aging office at 781 631-6737.

4. How do I sign up for a class at the COA?

If you know the time and day the class meets, just arrive at the Center a few minutes early to complete a registration card and sign-in on the attendance sheet for the class. If you are beginning an exercise class, please bring a note from your doctor stating that it is okay for you to exercise. If you aren't sure of the time and day of the class, stop by the Center and check our calendar. or see the monthly schedule in The Old Marblehead Cod, the COA monthly newsletter.

5. What is the difference between the Council on Aging and the Senior Center?

The Council on Aging is the municipal department for senior citizens and the Senior Center is the site used for senior activities. The COA is responsible for operating the Senior Center, which is located in the Marblehead Community Center.

6. How can I find out about the schedule for the senior bus?

You may contact the COA at 781 631-6737 or click on Transportation from the COA menu at this website.

7. When can I use the COA transportation program?

Any senior age 60 or more who lives in Marblehead or any person under age 60 who is disabled for transportation purposes is eligible to use the COA van. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. We strive to accommodate everyone, however, if we cannot transport you at the time you request, we will endeavor to give you an alternative time or day. Regularly scheduled trips may be seen on the Transportation Schedule. This is curb-to-curb service. Riders must be able to get to and from the vehicle on their own or bring an escort to assist.

8. How do I qualify to receive home-delivered meals?

Seniors who are eligible to receive home-delivered meals should be primarily homebound and unable to cook or shop for themselves. The easiest way to qualify is to have your doctor's office or nursing service call our office to make a referral. The meals are delivered Monday through Friday between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Frozen meals are available for the weekends. The suggested donation is $2.25 per meal. However, no senior will be turned away due to inability to make a donation.

9. Are the meals and transportation meant only for low income elders?

No - any senior age 60 or over is eligible. Home delivered meals do have some additional eligibility requirements but there is no income requirement.

10. Who are the Friends of the Council on Aging?

The COA is prohibited by law from fund-raising. The Friends of the COA is our fund-raising arm. They are a non-profit group formed to support the programs and services of the COA. They have an annual membership drive and several activities throughout the year to raise funds for the COA.

11. Can I get help with my Medicare or Medicaid?

The Council on Aging has an outreach worker who will assist home-bound individuals with these programs and a SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Elders) counselor by appointment. Call 781 631-6737.

12. Where can I get information on the senior tax work-off program to reduce my property taxes?

You can call the COA at 781 631-6737 or click on Property Tax Abatement Program from the COA menu on this website.

13. Where can I get information on services available for my 78 year old mother who is coming to live with me?

Call the COA and ask for the Outreach Worker. This staff person is available to assist those individuals and their families who need information and referral to appropriate programs and services. All information is confidential.

14. I am on a limited budget. How much do activities at the COA cost?

Most classes and programs at the COA have a suggested donation of $3 per session. Meals served at the Center have a suggested donation of $2.25 ("special" occasion meals may have a suggested donation of $3.00). The suggested donation for a one-way ride on the COA van is $1.00 in town and $3.00 out of town (Friday "Mystery" rides are $3.00). In a few instances, due to the costs of the program, there is a fee for a particular class. Check at the COA office if you are unsure.

15. I do not feel "old" even though I am over 65. What does the COA have to offer me?

Plenty! You will be surprised at the vigor and energy of our participants here at the Senior Center. We offer a wide variety of exercise classes at different levels of fitness. In addition, we offer a number of interesting classes, trips and presentations that appeal to many age levels. Stop in at the Center and ask for a tour of the facility ... you'll see firsthand how "young" everyone is here.

16. My father is unable to get around on his own. Can I drop him off at the Center to be looked after?

No! Participants at the Center must be independent and able to care for themselves. Our staff is not large enough to look after each individual. You may need an Adult Day Care facility instead. We would be happy to refer you to those available in the nearby community.