FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What age DO I have to be to participate in the Senior Center activities?

1)   The Hilltopper newsletter is sent to Hopkinton Seniors 60 and over, but we encourage younger residents to take advantage of some of our programs if there is space available. 

2)   We encourage anyone who would benefit by our informative speakers on Health and/or Elder Affairs to sign-up and attend.  Space is never an issue.  Monthly information is available in the Hilltopper.

3)   Our wheelchair accessible Bus seats 14 so day trips are usually full.  If someone needs assistance – they can inquire about taking a companion, aid or family member with them.  Some day trips are not recommended for the physically challenged.

IF I LEAVE MY PARENT OFF AT THE SENIOR CENTER WILL SOMEONE KEEP AN EYE ON HIM/HER?  Or (ARE SENIORS SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES?)

4)   Senior Centers are typically for physically and/or mentally active seniors.  We are not staffed to assist and stay with any one individual.  Our Outreach Department can advise on homecare, or adult day care and help you access the needs of a senior.  We welcome aides or family members for seniors who are in need of assistance.

IS THE HOPKINTON SENIOR CENTER LIMITED TO HOPKINTON RESIDENTS ONLY?

1)   NO – Seniors are welcome at any Senior Center, but some programs and activities may be restricted to Hopkinton Seniors first and all others may have their names put on a waiting list for available space.  Some events that are sponsored by local clubs or town departments are limited to only Hopkinton Seniors, such as the Lion’s Club Pasta Dinner, The Holiday party sponsored by the Hopkinton Police Association and Southborough Rod & Gun Club pork dinner to name a few.

DO YOU NEED VOLUNTEERS AND HOW DO I APPLY?

1)   Yes, we always need more volunteers.  You may inquire by contacting our Volunteer Coordinator, Ellen Wright at 508  497-9730 Ext. 18 or by email at ellenw@hopkinton.org.

2)   The process begins with your filling out an application and discussing with the coordinator the kinds of things you might like to do.  A CORI (Criminal Offender Record Check) must be processed before a volunteer can begin volunteering.  Confidentiality is of the utmost importance with the Outreach Department and Senior Center staff, as well as our volunteers.

SOMEONE TOLD ME I CAN HAVE MY TAXES DONE AT NO COST

1)   Yes.  For low and moderate income only.  Cannot handle businesses, rental properties, estates, etc.  We have AARP volunteers trained in tax preparation here in February and March by appointment only.  Call the Senior Center in late January to make your appointment.

DO YOU HAVE A FOOD PANTRY AVAILABLE?

1)   The Food Pantry has been moved to Project Just Because, 86 South Street, Hopkinton, MA. (508) 435-6511.   www.ProjectJustBecause.org. 

CAN SOMEONE ANSWER MY QUESTIONS CONCERNING HEALTH INSURANCE AND PRESCRIPTIONS?

1)   The Hopkinton Senior Center has certified SHINE (Serving Health Information Needs of Elders) Counselors.  We take appointments every Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or by special request.  Please contact the front desk 508 497-9730.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE COA AND SENIOR CENTER?

1)  The COA is the Town department that operates the Senior Center.