North Andover
A warning about ticks and Lyme disease: As the seasons change, our concerns go from slipping on an icy walkway to spending warm summer days working in our yard, lounging at local parks or beaches and protecting ourselves against Lyme disease. Lyme disease is spread by the bite of an infected deer tick. The tick usually must be attached to a person for least 24 hours before it can spread the germ. Lyme disease can occur during any time of year.
Usually the first sign of Lyme disease infection is a tiny red bump at the site of the tick bite, followed by a circular red rash. The rash starts small, about the size of a quarter, and can expand to more than a foot across. It is described as having a bull's eye shape; a red ring with a clear interior, then a section of skin, and a red center. It may itch, burn or tingle slightly.
The rash is followed by flu-like symptoms including fever, fatigue, chills, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle and joint aches. In older adults, the disease may present itself as a generalized feeling of fatigue and weakness. What is tricky with older adults is that fatigue is already common and they may not get the fever. Adults with fatigue as the initial symptom will usually develop the rash within days. Persistent fatigue as the only manifestation of Lyme disease would be very unlikely.
There is a blood test to detect infection, which is often done to confirm positive results. Most physicians would recommend three to four weeks of oral antibiotic therapy. The best way to avoid Lyme disease is through prevention. Avoid wooded, bushy areas with high grass. Walk in the center of trails and avoid contact with low branches, overgrown grass, and leaf piles. Use insect repellent with DEET on exposed skin and clothing. Wear long pants, long sleeves, and long socks to keep ticks off your skin, or wear light colored clothes in order to spot a tick more easily. Check for ticks before going indoors, even in your car.
— Irene O'Brien
In honor of Older Americans Month, the North Andover Senior Center is offering free classes to all seniors from May 19 to 23. This includes:
r Monday: yoga from 9 to 10 a.m., strength training from 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.
r Tuesday: tai chi from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
r Wednesday: line dancing from 2 to 3 p.m with Jason McCollin (NEW)
r Thursday: joy of exercise from 10 to 11 a.m., strength training 2:15 to 3:15 p.m.
r Friday: belly dancing from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.
Lunch out at the Four Winds Dining Room at Greater Lawrence Vo-Tech, is Tuesday, May 13. A reservation is required. Cost is $2 for lunch and $2 for transportation.
Senior Center Recognition Day is Wednesday, May 14, at 9 a.m. Free coffee hour, hosted by the North Andover Council on Aging Board of Directors
Acting Out Theater Company will be at the North Andover Senior Center on Monday May 19, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Linda Schoonmaker appears in "Script Readers." Lots of fun and laughter. Have you ever wondered if you have a struggling actor deep inside of you? This is your chance to shine.
Mystery Supper Club is Thursday, May 22. Cost is $19.
The Friends of the North Andover Senior Center has reached the halfway point in its fundraising campaign for capital improvements to the Senior Center. If you have contributed to the fundraising effort, the group is grateful; if not, there is still time. The improvements will help to improve the quality of care and services that are provided to the seniors of North Andover every day. Some of the renovation plans are to improve the size of the health screening office as well as to provide a waiting area so that seniors waiting for transportation do not have to stand out in the cold.
Wii Can Do It! tickets are on sale for the drawing on June 17 at the Senior Center. You may purchase a ticket on Saturday mornings in front of the post office or at Town Meeting on May 13. Tickets for the drawing are $10 each.
The next Friends of the North Andover Senior Center board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 5. The Friends of the North Andover Senior Center is looking for highly motivated, caring volunteers who would make a commitment to the group and organization. If you would like to see what it is all about, stop by on Thursday at 4:30 p.m..
The Council on Aging Board of Directors meeting is the second Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m. The next meeting is May 13 in the Senior Center conference room. All are welcome to attend.
High Tea at the senior center is Thursday, May 29, from 3 to 6 p.m. with guest speaker Jay Atkinson, author of "City in Amber," a historical novel about Lawrence. Tea, sandwiches and pastry will be served. The event is presented by the Ladies High Tea Committee to benefit the Senior Center's Capital Improvement Project. Tickets are available at the Senior Center and Annie's Book Store.
A new series of computer classes is offered on Friday mornings from 9 to 10 a.m. starting Friday, April 26, at the North Andover Senior Center. The instructor will teach at the seniors' level, basic beginner or intermediate.
The teacher is Tom Kooken, who has experience teaching and working with intergenerational groups on computers.
If you are stuck on something, you can come in and talk it through with the instructor, and he can write down a solution and demonstrate it on the center computer. Please call Barbara to sign up, 978-688-9560.
The Supper Club is a group of seniors who go out to dinner at different area restaurants once a month. The cost of dinner, tax, and gratuity is usually between $15.99 and $21, depending on the restaurant that is chosen. An additional $2 is charged for round-trip transportation.
Senior Center shuttle: on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, the Senior Center shuttle leaves the center at 8:45 a.m. to pick up seniors who would like to spend the morning attending activities at the center and return home after lunch. The cost of this transport is $1.
Shopping trips: the Senior Center provides trips to Market Basket on Tuesday and Wednesday, leaving the Senior Center at 1 p.m. This is a curb-to-curb service for $2 round trip. Reservations are needed and you may schedule a home pick up as well. The last Monday of the month the van travels to Rockingham Mall, leaving the center at 12:30 p.m. and returning at 4 p.m. Round trip cost is $4 and arrangements may be made for home pick up.
Medical transport is available at the Senior Center though the NEET Program. To schedule an appointment call the Senior Center and ask for Paula. Three to four days notice and a 40 cents donation per mile are requested.
Volunteer drivers for the Medical Transport Program are always needed. Call the Senior Center.
The North Andover Senior Center is collecting items for soldiers in Iraq and in Afghanistan. Each month a different soldier is featured; this month the collection is for Joshua Tuccolo. Anyone can donate, just drop by the center and put an item in the box. Suggested items are toiletries, stationary, snacks and socks.
The North Andover Senior Center is collecting old cell phones and ink jet cartridges. Your used cell phones may be tax deductible and will be recycled in accordance with EPA regulations or refurbished and sold. 100 percent of the proceeds will help fund transportation for elder clients and staff support at the Senior Center. Please drop them off at the North Andover Senior Center.
Better Days Ahead: A program on managing chronic disease meets every Wednesday, starting April 23 through May 28, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Home Care Inc. is offering this six-week program to address the needs of individuals in the community living with chronic health issues. Class size is limited to 16 people. Call Rita Lonardo, RN at 978-552-4674 to register.
The Friends of the North Andover Senior Center, Inc. have established a transportation scholarship program for North Andover seniors.
Ten-ride passbooks are available now for North Andover seniors at no cost. One book per month per person will be available and used passbooks must be presented to receive another one free. Seniors must fill out a brief application at the Senior Center, bring an MVRTA transport ID card, show proof of residency, and be a North Andover resident to be eligible. Once the initial amount of free books has been distributed, the cost of a 10-ride passbook will be $10 instead of $20, with the Friends of the North Andover Senior Center offsetting 50 percent of the original cost.
This program is funded by money received from the annual Matter of Taste event at the Stevens Estate helps fund the program.
The mission of the Friends of the North Andover Senior Center Inc. is to create awareness, educate and identify senior needs and to promote, sponsor and financially support programs and services whose primary activities are by and for the senior population of the town of North Andover. This is in accordance with the goals and policies of the North Andover Council on Aging Board. This program is only for North Andover seniors, no exceptions.
The Friends of the North Andover Senior Center Inc. need help. They have just embarked on a three-month Capital Improvement Fundraising Campaign to supplement the town of North Andover's funding of $250,000 for critically needed renovations and upgrades to the Senior Center facility. To complete all of the recommended renovations and improvements, they need to raise a minimum of $80,000. Here is a summary of some of the key improvements planned for this project: Expand reception and waiting area providing better access; improve "people flow" and accessibility to activities, programs, services and staff; expand size of Walk-in Clinic area and computer area.
The overall mission of the Friends of the North Andover Senior Center Inc. is to financially support the programs and activities provided daily to a growing elder population in North Andover. The over-80 population is the fastest-growing population and the ones who require the most services. Please mail your tax-deductible donation check made payable to The Friends of the North Andover Senior Center Inc. at P.O. Box 661, North Andover, MA 01845. Also, please write "Capital Improvement Fund" in the memo section on your check.
The senior center reports, "As a senior citizen, criminals often target you because they think you are vulnerable but you need not believe that. Your own education and awareness can prevent these criminals from victimizing you. If you are contacted — by telephone, mail or e-mail — by someone claiming that: you have won something; need to verify account numbers or other personal information; they need your help transferring money or anything else that sounds too good to be true, hang up, delete or throw away such correspondence. No legitimate company verifies information in this way. Unless you have initiated contact — you called, mailed or visited a company's Web site — do not give out personal information. You may visit www.donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222 to reduce the number of calls to your house. Also: www.madonotcall.govconnect.com or 1-866-231-2255.
Getting ready for digital television: At midnight on Feb. 17, 2009, full power broadcast television stations will stop broadcasting in analog format. Digital TV will replace the analog system. To prepare for this change, you can buy a new TV that has a built-in ATSC tuner, buy a Digital-to-Analog Converter Box, or subscribe to a Cable TV or Satellite TV service. To reduce the cost for analog TV owners, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the U.S. Department of Commerce developed a converter box coupon program. This program allows Analog TV owners to request coupons towards the purchase of a Digital-to-Analog converter box. Coupons will be available from now to March 31, 2009. All households that own a TV using over-the-air analog reception are eligible. Coupons, which will look like a plastic gift cards, will be redeemable through local electronic stores. Households may request two $40 coupons toward the purchase of an Analog-to-Digital converter boxes beginning by calling 888-DTV-2009, (1-888-388-2009) or online at www.DTV2009.gov, which also provides answers to frequently asked questions. Coupons will be forwarded via U.S. mail. The approximate cost of a converter box will be between $60 and $80.
Massachusetts Credit Freeze Law: A new weapon against identity theft is now available for all Massachusetts residents. This new credit report freeze will provide consumers with the ability to prevent unauthorized access to their Credit Reports and FICO Scores. Under the new law, credit-reporting agencies cannot charge a victim of identity, or his or her spouse, for placing a security freeze on their credit report. However, consumers who have not been victimized can be charged $5 by each credit-reporting agency. To implement a credit freeze you must notify, by certified letter, each of the three major credit-reporting agencies. You will receive a PIN number, which will be used to remove the freeze from your file. The credit freeze will not apply to your existing creditors, any of the affiliated companies, or any companies peeking at your credit files. The freeze does not affect collection activity or any government agencies.
Emergency fund: The Friends of North Andover Senior Center have created an emergency fund to assist North Andover seniors in times of severe hardship. The Friends have authorized payment of up to $100 per family per year. The fund may be used for such things as utility bills, rent, food and prescriptions. To be eligible, the senior must be 60 years or older, a resident of North Andover and own their own home, rent an apartment or be living with someone who is a resident. Residents of nursing homes will not be considered for this fund. For more information, call Donna Delaney at 978-688-9560.
Scholarship fund: The Friends of North Andover Senior Center have established a scholarship fund for seniors that may be having difficulty paying their class fees at the center. The Fund will pay $24 and the senior will pay the remaining $20 toward the total cost of $44. To apply for a scholarship, call Donna Delaney at the center.
Regular programs
Exercise Programs at the North Andover Senior Center include yoga on Mondays 9 to 10 a.m. and belly dancing on Fridays, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. Cost is $6 per class or $4 per class if you sign up for the entire program. You do not have to be a resident of North Andover to participate. Call 978-688-9560 for a complete list of activities.
Free computer classes with a new teacher are offered to North Andover seniors on Friday mornings at 9 a.m. Call the reception desk at 978-688-9560.
Support group every Friday from 1 to 2:30 p.m.: Beacon of Hope is a support group which meets on a weekly basis. It brings a trained facilitator together with a group of seniors who have had losses and challenges in their lives. The goal is to bond with a group, learn from each other and create coping strategies. Newcomers are always welcome.
Fourth Wednesday discussion group: Come join a monthly gathering with others experiencing life changes. The group will meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Each monthly meeting will focus on a specific topic. For registration or more information, call the Senior Center. There is no charge for this group discussion.
Drivers are needed to take elders to medical appointments. We also need volunteers for the telephone reassurance and friendly visitors program. Would you be interested in facilitating a writing class, music lessons, teaching computer skills or exercise classes? Please call the Center if you have some time to offer to your community.
Four Seasons newsletter: If you are age 60 and over you should be receiving the "Four Seasons" newsletter. If you are not on our mailing list please call 978-688-6560 and give us your information. Those who are under age 60 may pick up a newsletter at the Center.
Grocery shopping at Market Basket every Tuesday and Wednesday, round trip $2 curb to curb service.
Senior Center Shuttle Monday, Wednesday, Friday pick up starts at 8:40 a.m. and returns home after lunch. Round trip is $1. Medical transport is available by calling the Center four days in advance to schedule transportation. For more information on any program above, call Paula at 978-688-9560.
Strength training: Increase functional strength by exercising with comfortable and motivational music. Class starts with a warm-up and continues with light aerobics. Hand and leg weights are optional. Class meets every Monday and Thursday at 2:15 p.m.
Fix-it shops will be open on the first and third Monday of the month from 1 to 4 p.m. Bring in your watches that need batteries and other small appliances that need repairs. Dick Slade and Bob Milstone, a.k.a. Mr. Fix-it, can replace old wires on lamps, fix extension cords, and replace on and off switches. He loves a challenge so bring in your item and he will do the best job he can for you. Your cost is $2, plus parts. All proceeds benefit the Senior Center.
Tai Chi & Chi Gong: Improves balance and relaxes the body. Concentration, internal body awareness and patience improves greatly. Allows the body to feel good and provides a healthy way to deal with stress. Tuesday morning 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
TRIAD: Seniors and Law Enforcement working together. Find out about the latest crime alerts, discussion groups, problem solving, and implementing new programs. Meets the third Tuesday of the month at 11 a.m.
Woodcarving: A great social group; beginners through advanced are welcome. Meets Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon.
Bingo: Tuesdays 1 p.m., $1 per card. Coffee and tea will be available.
Book Club: Meets the first Friday of the month at 10:30 a.m.
Bowling: At Academy Lanes in Bradford, $5.75 per week. Includes bowling and shoes. League forms in September.
Bridge: Experienced players meet to enjoy a friendly afternoon of bridge. Partners not needed. All are welcome. Drop in on Monday or Friday afternoons. From 1 to 4. p.m.
Bridge Beginners: Build upon your bridge skills. This is a weekly walk-in session. Partners not needed. All are welcome. Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m.
Cards: 45's, Nickels and Poker (nickel and dime, dealer's choice) experienced and beginners welcome. Meets Monday afternoons at 1 p.m. $1 donation.
Heart to Heart: Weekly fellowship and fun social program designed for social support, sharing and compassion. Meets Wednesday mornings at 10 for coffee; meeting begins at 10:30 a.m.
Joy of Exercise: Low impact aerobic/dance increases coordination, balance and strength, utilizing a variety of equipment from stretch bands to light weights (provided). Men and women welcome. Thursday morning at 10 a.m..
Knitting and Crocheting: Open to all, Tuesdays 9:30-11:30 a.m. Individuals should bring their own projects and a smile. Members will be able to help each other solve any problems. Join to learn something new or for fun. Yarn is available.
Lecture Series: People from different backgrounds, professions or interests give presentations and insight into a variety of subjects. Keeping our minds open and alert helps our overall health and well being. Mondays from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Belly dancing classes offered Fridays from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.
News and Views: An informative and stimulating group covering current events, local, national and international issues. Each individual is encouraged to express his or her point of view on various subjects. Wednesday morning at 10:30.
Quilting: All levels welcome. We bring our work for show and tell, tips on colors, patterns and quilting styles. Meets the first Friday of the month at 10 a.m.
Sketching & Oil Painting: For all levels of artists, from beginner to advanced. The elements of drawing are emphasized—includes composition, color and values. Meets Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m.
The Council on Aging is at 120 Main St. For a full list of Council on Aging events, call 978-688-9560.
Boxford
Van use: The cost of using the van is $3 per person, per trip with some exceptions.
There is no charge to use the van to attend the weekly barbecue or congregate luncheons at the Council on Aging, but you must let the COA know ahead of time
For longer trips, the cost per person might be more than $3, but any new price will be noted in the schedule.
Other scheduling items to keep in mind:
The first Monday of the month will be set aside for the Silver Screen show at the Lawrence Showcase Cinema. The cost of the movie is $1, and the show starts at 1 p.m. Reserve your space the Wednesday before the week you want to go.
Wednesdays are set aside for transportation to and from the barbecues.
Thursdays are set aside for grocery shopping
COA board meeting: The Council on Aging Board usually meets every second Wednesday of the month at 9:30 a.m.
Mixed bag: Every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. is the COA's Mixed Bag Day. This day is being set aside to cover many areas of interest such as knitting, sewing, arts and crafts.
Handymen: The handymen are Jacks of All Trades and are willing to help with some jobs around the house — fixing light switches, or changing locks.
Game Day: Every Monday at 9:30 a.m. Everyone enjoys a challenging game. Bring a friend and join in the fun. We have Rummikub, Scrabble, Yahtzee, Monopoly, checkers, cribbage and more.
Wanted: The senior center is looking for Northern Essex Elder Transport drivers. The center needs volunteers to drive seniors to various medical appointments, mostly in Peabody, Danvers, Beverly, Topsfield or Haverhill. Not a set schedule. The volunteers are provided with supplemental insurance for their vehicle and are reimbursed at 40 cents per mile. If you are interested, please call the COA at 978-887-3591.
Elder services: The last Thursday of the month, Kelly Manseau from Elder Services will have office hours at the COA. She plans to have an "open door" policy for all seniors who would like to speak to someone regarding Elder Services.
Silver Screen shows: At Lawrence Showcase Cinemas, first Monday of each month. Classic films shown at 1 p.m. for $1
Great Group: The Great Group is sponsored by the Boxford Village Garden Club and provides a monthly program specifically for women who have reached the age of late 70s or older. The monthly meetings are usually held every third Friday of the month at Four Mile Village. For more information, contact Doffy Falk at 978-887-8495.
Congregate lunch: Lunches are held at the COA every Tuesday and Thursday. Reservations are required and must be received prior to noon on Monday or Wednesday. The cost for this meal is still $1.50 per person.
Line dancing: This fun class will be held upstairs at the COA with instructor Arlene Parkhurst every Monday and Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. All levels and ages are welcome and no prior experience is necessary to enjoy this class. Interested parties do no need to register, just come in and sign up at the beginning of the class. You can come to either class or both. Come on by and kick up your heels.
Yoga Classes: Tuesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. Rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit in classes taught by Mary Van Abs. Cost is $3 per class.
The Council on Aging is at 4 Middleton Road. For a full list of Council on Aging events, call 978-887-3591.
