The Hopkinton Senior Center remains closed to the public, but the staff remains available to assist residents. Call (508) 497-9730 if in need of assistance, with questions or just to say hi. For a more extensive listing of programs check Ourseniorcenter.com/find/Hopkinton-council-on-aging or hopkintonseniorcenter.com.

Lunch Program
The Senior Center, partially funded by a grant from the MetroWest Health Foundation, is running a limited takeout lunch program (Tuesday-Friday) for Hopkinton seniors, particularly those who are homebound and/or have relied on the center for their daily main meal in the past. While there are limited quantities, anyone who knows of a senior who might benefit from this program can call the Senior Center at 508-497-9730. Cost is $2 per meal.

Holiday Dinner
Wednesday, Dec. 16, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
In place of the regular lunch program, the center is inviting Hopkinton seniors to enjoy a holiday pot roast dinner. Meals must be reserved by 2 p.m. on Dec. 7. Delivery will be available to those who have no means to pick up their meal outside the Senior Center.

’Tis the Season, Or Is It?
Friday, Dec. 4, 12:30 p.m.
Gifting might help an individual avoid probate, avoid estate taxes and protect assets if nursing home care is needed, but the recipient might see increased tax liability, and the gifts might need to be returned if the giver gets sick. In this seminar, elder law attorney Arthur Bergeron will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of gifting to help determine the best approach for each case. This is a Zoom presentation. Those interested should call the Senior Center to sign up, and a link will be sent out before the program.

Calling all Jigsaw Puzzlers
Monday, Dec. 14, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
For those who are tired of the same puzzles and would like a new one, the Senior Center is offering a puzzle pickup day. Participants should pre-register so the center can make sure to have the correct number of puzzles to share. Puzzle donations are welcome.

Books, Books and More Books
Friday, Dec. 18, 12:30 p.m.
Seniors are invited to participate in a book club being held virtually (phone, laptop or iPad) to share what they have been reading and to get reading suggestions. Participants should call the Senior Center for the call-in number or Zoom meeting invitation link.

Our Time Memory Cafe
Call for dates (virtual)
Our Time Memory Cafe is a welcoming gathering for those experiencing forgetfulness, mild cognitive impairment or living with dementia, and their care partner, family and friends. The cafe is a place to socialize, share experiences with others going through similar changes, and form friendships. A care partner must accompany anyone who requires assistance. The program is a joint venture between the Hopkinton Senior Center and Hopkinton Public Library. For more information or to register, call (508) 497-0108 or email info@ourtimememorycafe.org.

TED Talks
Mondays, 12:30 p.m.
In 1984 TED Talks were created to bring technology, entertainment and design information to the curious and open-minded public. These videos cover a wide array of subjects and always lead to lively discussion and conversation. The Outreach Program at the Senior Center will have casual TED Talks group meetings over Zoom for one hour every Monday at 12:30 p.m. The meeting will consist of viewing a video and then discussing it. The program is free. Register by calling the Senior Center at 508-497-9730.

SMOC Fuel Assistance
The Outreach Department at the Hopkinton Senior Center is assisting residents of all ages with applications to the South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC) for the home heating season, which is from November to April. State income guidelines must be met — for a household of one it’s $39,105, for two it’s $51,137, etc. For more information or to make an appointment, call 508-497-9730 and ask for Marlene or Kim.

Medical Equipment
Durable medical equipment (walkers, bath seats, canes, crutches — but no longer commodes), for Hopkinton residents’ use only, is available to be loaned out free of charge. Wheelchairs, both standard and transport, require a $25 refundable deposit and are limited to two months.