The Hopkinton Senior Center is open Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. For a more extensive listing of programs and services, including lunch program menus, as well as a newsletter, check hopkintonseniorcenter.com. Anyone with questions can call 508-497-9730. The Senior Center also has a Facebook page that provides updates on resources, programs and events.

Winter Weather Policy
The Senior Center is closed to the public when the Hopkinton Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather. Those interested in visiting should play it safe — watching the news and checking for school closings. Individuals also can call the Senior Center or check out the Facebook page for closing updates. Transportation assistance could be impacted by inclement weather as well.

HOP Coffee and Conversation
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 9:30 a.m.
Many grandparents have shared their desire to learn effective ways to support and connect with their grandchildren, particularly regarding healthy conversations about substance use and mental health, and how to recognize potential warning signs. The Senior Center has received questions about the best age to start these discussions and how to approach them. The public is invited to an insightful conversation with Erin Bartolini from HOP (Hopkinton Organizing for Prevention). HOP is dedicated to promoting well-being and resilience for all Hopkinton residents, providing education, resources and support to prevent youth substance use. Attendees will learn how to recognize potential warning signs and engage in these vital healthy conversations.

Downsizing with Eric Green
Thursday, Jan. 22, 1 p.m.
Anyone who has been in their house for a long time or has thought about selling but doesn’t know where to start should join Hopkinton based realtors Eric Green and Alan Connell for a Downsizing Made Easy seminar. They will share valuable information to help someone prepare their home for a sale, including which improvements have the best return on investment and what buyers are looking for today. In addition, Ann Newberry from Smooth Transitions will share how her company assists seniors with the softer side of the process, from decluttering; deciding what to keep, sell or donate; to setting up a new place. And Kelli Weber from Home Stretch will discuss how her company provides one-stop shopping for physically prepping a home for sale including painting, flooring, landscaping and many other things.

Making Social Security Secure
Thursday Jan. 29, 1 p.m.
Attendees will learn how Social Security is funded, about its current and future financial health, and the options to ensure the stability of the program. Social Security faces a long-term financial shortfall unless Congress acts. This presentation will cover the pros and cons of the five most common solutions to ensure that Social Security can continue to pay the full payments that Americans have earned. AARP is advocating to protect the long-term future of Social Security. This presentation will provide the information individuals need to make their voices heard. Everybody who is receiving or planning to receive a Social Security payment is invited and encouraged to attend. This presentation is free and open to residents of all towns. Registration is request by calling 508-497-9730.

Our Time Memory Cafe at the Senior Center
Thursday, Feb. 5, 1 p.m.
This is a welcoming gathering for those experiencing forgetfulness or mild cognitive impairment, or living with dementia, and their care partner, family and friends. The cafe is a place to socialize, share experiences and form friendships. This month’s activity is a live piano performance from Sylvia Studer-Woodard. This is a joint venture between Senior Services and the Hopkinton Public Library. For more information, call the Senior Center.

AARP Income Tax Assistance
Tuesdays in February and March
AARP Foundation tax-aide volunteers (IRS certified) will help individuals prepare and file their returns for free. While this program is focused on taxpayers who are over 50 and
have low to moderate income, it is open to anyone of any age. Appointments begin Feb. 10 and continue each Tuesday through the end of March. Anyone interested in more information or scheduling an appointment can call the Senior Center at 508-497-9730. Individuals can begin signing up for appointments on Jan. 20.