North Andover Senior Center Weekly News

North Andover Senior Center Weekly News Article

March 27th, 2015

For FY15, the COA Board of Directors has initiated an effort to make a difference in the quality and freshness of foods being served here at the North Andover Senior meal site. We are looking for alternative ways to bring healthier meals to the table of our MOW clients as well as our congregate meals. Nutrition is an important element of health in the older population and affects the aging process. Poor nutrition associates with a decline in: functional status, impaired muscle function, decreased bone mass, immune dysfunction, anemia, reduced cognitive function, poor wound healing, delayed recovery from surgery and higher hospital readmission rates. Remember the old adage, you are what you eat? Make it your motto. When you choose a variety of colorful fruits and veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins you’ll feel vibrant and healthy, inside and out. Good nutrition keeps muscles, bones, organs, and other body parts strong for the long haul. Eating vitamin-rich food boosts immunity and fights illness-causing toxins. A proper diet reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, type-2 diabetes, bone loss, cancer, and anemia. Also, eating sensibly means consuming fewer calories and more nutrient-dense foods, keeping weight in check. Key nutrients are essential for the brain to do its job. People who eat a selection of brightly colored fruit, leafy veggies, and fish and nuts packed with omega-3 fatty acids can improve focus and decrease their risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Wholesome meals give you more energy and help you look better, resulting in a self-esteem boost. It’s all connected—when your body feels good you feel happier inside and out. In May we will once again be starting the in-house meals with an added attraction. Monday at lunch we will be serving a Soup and Sandwich Bistro, on Tuesday evening once a month we will be co-hosting a Dinner Buffet and Wednesday’s Fresh Table will return at lunch time. Watch for updates in our weekly calendar for starting dates.

Support is being offered by the North Andover Senior Center for all the residents of Foulds Terrace. If you would like more information please call the North Andover Senior Center and ask for Donna. 978-688-9560.

Upcoming socials:

MEN’S BREAKFAST – Thursday April 2nd at 9am. Following at 9:30 the speaker will be the Town Manager of North Andover, Andrew Maylor.

RED SOX OPENING DAY – Monday April 13th. Come to the Senior Center to enjoy a “Fenway” frank with baked beans and chips. Wear your team spirit shirts and caps. Sign up with reception. Cost $2.50.

SUPPER CLUB: Thursday April 16th. Grazie Wood Fire Grill, Dracut. Van departs at 4:30. Sign up with reception begins April 1st. Van cost $6.

ONE ON ONE COMPUTER INSTRUCTION: 45 minute sessions for $7. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-12 with George Chory. Make your appointments with reception 978-688-9560. This time can accommodate gadgets, too if necessary (Phones, Tablets, etc.)

S.H.I.N.E. Volunteers: (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) Free, confidential counseling on all aspects of health insurance to North Andover residents on Medicare; Call center for an appointment. First and third Tuesday of the month.

Volunteers are the backbone of the North Andover Senior Center, we currently need Medical Transport Volunteers. You can set your own hours. Call the Senior Center for more information. Speak with our Program Coordinator at 688-9560 for an application and assistance.

NEWS & VIEWS: Every Wednesday at 10–11:30. Come and join in the lively discussion of current events, politics, history and you never know what else?!

MEET WITH AN ATTORNEY: Atty. Ray Cannon, April 1st and Atty. Ramsey Bahrawy, April 21st. Schedule with Reception-first consult is free.

MR. FIX IT: First and Third THURSDAY of the month from 12-3pm. We repair almost as good as new. Lamps, with cords and sockets, replace watch batteries, small tables and chairs. Anything that is not listed, we will give it a shot! Your cost is $2 - $4 depending on work needed, plus parts. Proceeds benefit the Senior Center.

WALK IN CLINIC: Wednesdays 9-12 pm, the North Andover Senior Center and Home Health Inc/VNA operate a wellness clinic. If you are a North Andover Senior, we urge you to take advantage of this opportunity to check your blood pressure, blood sugar, weight and blood oxygen levels. Consult privately with an RN regarding any medication and health issues that you are concerned about. There is no charge for this service. Donations are gratefully accepted.

FOOT CARE: RN Catherine Languedoc, Foot Care Specialist ($25), third Friday of every month from 8:30-2:30. Dr. Skinner ($30) is available on the second Wednesday of the month, 1-4pm.

ROCKINGHAM MALL TRIP- April 27th 2015, call for reservation.

WALKING GROUP- Our Walking Group walks at the Youth Center every morning at 9 a.m., must wear appropriate foot gear for inside the gymnasium.