Social Services, Programs, and Activities

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Call the Council on Aging at 781-316-3400 

Social Workers

Social Workers are always available to help Arlington residents age 60 and over and their families with social service-related issues. We can answer questions over the phone or meet with families in-person. We can offer referrals and information about assistance at home, housing options, caregiver resources, help with forms, and applications for assistance with food (SNAP), heating assistance, and other financial assistance programs.

Support Groups

Please call us if you are interested in any of these Support Groups: Caregiver Support Group, Low Vision Group, Declutter Group, Parkinson’s Group, Memory Café for individuals with memory loss and their caregivers. 

Nursing Services

The Geriatric Nurse can listen to health concerns and offer health education and links to resources and referrals. She can also assist with applications for the Sevoyan Dental program. Please call Joanne Sliney, RN at 781-316-3405 with any health questions.

Blood Pressure Clinics

Blood Pressure Clinics are held throughout Arlington through the COA nurse.

Podiatry Clinics

By Appointment Only: Podiatry Clinics are held in Medford.  The fee for this service is $35.00 per participant. Please call the Council on Aging at 781-316-3400 for dates and to schedule your appointment. Let us know if you need transportation services to this Clinic so we may schedule a ride for you.

Medical Equipment

We have a rotating supply of medical equipment such as walkers, canes, wheelchairs and shower aids that we loan to Arlington residents.  We also accept some donations of new or lightly used medical equipment if it fits the needs of our clients.   We do not accept walk in donations.  Please call Lourie August at 781-316-3410 if you need an item or would like to donate equipment.  

Exercise Programs

There are movement programs offered daily for older adults through the Council on Aging. Various levels of Exercise, Yoga, Tai Chi, and Muscle Strengthening are offered weekly in the Senior Center.  We also offer several Virtual classes as well as seasonal walking programs such as Walking Club.   See our monthly Arlington Senior Center News for all listings and locations. 

Activities and Special Events

The Arlington Council on Aging offers multiple virtual activities such as movies, lectures, discussion groups, games and bingo, computer help, coffee hours, sing-along groups, cultural events, and holiday celebrations as well as some outdoor activities.  See our monthly Senior Newsletter for all listings and locations.  

Financial Assistance, Taxes, Health Insurance and Legal Advisor

Financial Assistance Programs are available for seniors to help pay for dental cleanings, personal needs and property taxes. Please call us to speak to a social worker.

SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) Counselors meet in our offices to help with questions about Medicare and health insurance. Call us to ask for an appointment with a Shine Counselor.

Legal Advisor Our volunteer Legal Advisor can consult with older adults and answer legal questions. Call for an appointment. Financial Planning and Long Term Care Insurance Counseling Call us if you need assistance with either of these issues.

Nutrition Programs and Heat Assistance

Healthy Eating in Arlington. We are a SNAP (Food Stamps) application site. We partner with Arlington Eats, Foodlink, Lahey Health and The Greater Boston Food Bank to get food into the homes of Arlington seniors. We also offer several nutrition education programs yearly. And we offer free senior rides to the Arlington Eats Market (food pantry) on our van. Call us for information about any of these programs.

Heat Assistance You may be able to lower your home heating fuel bill Call us to see if you quality for Heat Assistance

Volunteering at the Council on Aging

Volunteers play an important role at the Council on Aging. We have volunteer opportunities that can match your schedule ranging from a few hours per year up to a few hours per week. We are always looking for volunteers for the following: Medical Escorts, Friendly Visitors, Health Clinics, Publicity, Arlington for All Ages 5K Race, Annual Thanksgiving Meal Delivery, Warm Wishes Holiday Program, Town Day, and Miscellaneous Programs, Activities and Special Projects.

Meals on Wheels

Find out about Meals on Wheels by calling Minuteman Senior Services at 781.221.7083 or 1.888.222.6171 extension 7083. Meals on Wheels Menu

LINKS Program (Linking Neighborhood Kids)

We may be able to coordinate help with light snow removal through our partnership with the Ottoson Middle School. Ottoson has a limited number of students who may be matched with a senior in their neighborhood for light shoveling. Call us to find out more.