Billerica Council on Aging

News & Updates

BCOA Day Trips for APRIL - Sign Up with John starting FRI 3/24

 

Breakfast Social -- Friday MAR 24th -- menu posting:

We're already starting to think about the breakfast social on Friday 3/24 ... Here's what's on the menu, for $6 per plate - including coffee or tea, and OJ:

 

1. Hearty Breakfast (2 eggs, Bacon, Toast, Home fries)

2. Wake-Up Breakfast Sandwich on English (2 Eggs, Sausage Pattie, Cheese, Home Fries)

3. 2 French Toast, 2 Fried Eggs w/3 slices of Bacon

4. Sausage Biscuit Gravy, Fried Egg served with Home Fries

 

Grab a friend, family member, or complete stranger -- head to the BCOA between 8:30am and 10am. Best Breakfast in Town!

 

Lower Electricity Rates Available to Residents in Billerica

 

The Town of Billerica has negotiated a lower electricity supplier rate through Colonial Power Group, through January 2024. Many residents are already enrolled in this successful program. If you'd like more information, you can call 978-671-0942, or click on this link: https://colonialpowergroup.com/billerica

 

**Free**Build Strong Bones Presentation by Michael Stare -

We are grateful to the AARP Tax Aide Volunteers who participate in the TAX help at the BCOA.  Please make appointments in advance.

Did you know the BCOA offers local rides for errands, shopping, and medical appointments?

See more info on our Transportation Page on this website.

Be on the LOOK-OUT for Scammers:

As we all know from the seminars, and lectures we have had here at the BCOA, there are many scams out there and unfortunately a senior in Billerica almost fell prey to the “Grandparent” scam but because of her quick thinking and action she was able to help the police catch the culprit. Please remember DO NOT EVER WITHDRAW MONEY FOR SOMEONE YOU DO NOT KNOW. Do not send anyone prepaid debit cards.  Hang up and call your family or call the Billerica Police at (978) 671-0900, they are there to help.

Walking Wonders Group Meets M-F at 9am for social walks outside!

Walking can:

Strengthen your muscles.

Help keep your weight steady.

Lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, colon cancer and diabetes.

Strengthen your bones, and prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis (regular walking could halve the number of people over 45 who fracture their hip).

Help reduce blood pressure in some people with hypertension.

Improve your balance and coordination, and decrease your likelihood of falling.

Keep your joints flexible.

Increase your confidence and mood, and help you feel better all round.

Improve your energy levels and increase your stamina.

Reduce anxiety or depression.

Improve your social life – walking is a great way to get out and meet people or socialize with your friends.

If you'd like to add walking (outside) to your routine in 2023 - here is a great opportunity!  Meet at the COA M-F, at 9am.

Call Carolyn at 978-215-2010 for more info.

Starting JAN 3rd -- You have greater flexibility in choosing and attending Exercise Activities!  PAY-AS-YOU-GO starts.

As described in the January Outlook Newsletter (click on the link below to go to the online version,) you now have more flexibility in choosing which daily exercise, dance, and mind-body activities you'd like to attend.  We do not require advance 'sign-up' or payment.  You do not need to commit to an entire series of classes.  You can choose which days and activities you want to participate -- try different classes, and suit your own daily schedule.  Work around your own appointments and daily plans.  Fit in classes where YOU want.

FREE Weekly Classes DO NOT Require Advanced Registration

• Use Key Fob to Sign into your classes at the Kiosks
• Limited to 35pp – get here early
• These classes are:  Chair Aerobics (M & TH)   Cardio-Boost (T & F)   Tai Chi (F)

PAID Weekly Exercise Classes DO NOT Require Advanced Registration

• Use Key Fob to sign into your classes at the Kiosks
• ARRIVE EARLY to pay for each class you attend
• Pay at the large table in the Community Room
• Each class is $3.00 or $5.00 (please bring cash, preferred)
• If you want 2-3 classes in a day – you can pay one time for one day
• Limited to 35pp
• These classes are:  Strength & Balance, Full Body Workout, Tap Dancing, Line Dancing (Beginner+)   Yoga, Barre Fusion, Zumba Toning and Zumba.

See our Activities PAGE, and Wellness PAGE on this website, for further info.

Any Questions?  Please call 978-671-0916.

**New** Starting in January 2023, our Companion Program is expanding to serve these communities:

• Bedford
• Billerica
• Burlington
• Carlisle
• Wilmington

For more information on this program that offers families and caregivers peace of mind, balance and support, please click on this link below to review and print our brochure (PDF format - two pages.)

BCOA Companion Program Brouchure

Administration for Community Living Offers Home-Delivered Meals Nationally.  In MA, the government organization is AgeSpan.  Available locally and easy to get information:

Since 1972, ACL's National Senior Nutrition Program has supported nutrition services for older adults across the country. Funded by the Older Americans Act, local senior nutrition programs serve as hubs for older adults to access nutritious meals and other vital services that strengthen social connections and promote health and well-being.

If you'd like local info on the AgeSpan Home Delivered Meal ('Meals on Wheels') please contact them at 800-892-0890.  If you'd like to speak to one of our Outreach Specialists about delivered meals and other community resources, call the Billerica COA at 978-671-0916, and ask the receptionist to connect you to the Outreach team.

Click on the ACL logo, below -- to watch an informational video on the National Senior Nutrition Program.  

3 *N*E*W* Exercise Classes to UP Your Game:   

Thanks to a grant by the Friends of the BCOA, we are able to offer three new fitness classes at reduced pricing ($3 each, vs. $5 each) until March 31st, 2023.  Please take advantage of this offer!

This is great opportunity to meet the health and fitness challenge of the winter months by adding some new work-outs to your routine.  Check out our Outlook Newsletter for a complete listing of Exercise, Dance, Yoga and other activities for a healthy body, mind and spirit.