The Scituate Council on Aging kicked off the new year with a flurry of activity, outlining a packed schedule of new and returning programs at its January 8th meeting. After calling the meeting to order and proceeding with introductions from all members—including board members Stephanie O’Connor, Lauren, and Anna Morris, who noted the importance of record-keeping on meeting minutes to "help with the rotation"—the board addressed its first item of business. Motion Made by Susan Pope to approve the minutes from December 11th. Board member Barry Foster added his "Second." The motion passed unanimously.

Director Linda Hayes-Kelly detailed a bustling start to 2026. “Happy new year,” she began, adding, “January 5th, it's like, wow, the place is just jumping and we do have a lot going on.” The center welcomed 24 new members in December and is launching an array of fresh programming. Highlights include a well-attended AI presentation, a new classic books club, a popular Blue Zone program series that has drawn over 60 participants, and an upcoming "Together in Time" Memory Cafe. The center also continues to provide essential services, with 470 transportation rides provided last month. Assistant Director Kelly Walsh noted the success of support groups, stating, "It is nice that I pick out topics myself as well as I will have people from the community come in," which provides a "nice balance" for attendees.

Guest speaker Lucille, the Social Day Program Coordinator, shared an update on the popular program, which provides a welcoming environment for participants on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. "Our goals are really to continue meaningful engagement, create moments of happiness, and provide programs that are person-centric," she explained, while noting a need for more volunteers. Kenzie Vanderbrook of Southshore Elder Services provided a regional update, cautioning that while local services remain stable, systemic issues persist. "The state still has their waiting list," Vanderbrook said, "so we don't know how many people are not getting services because we never know who they are or what they need."

Updates on town matters and other groups rounded out the meeting. Vice Chair Susan Travich-Kelly reported that a proposed housing presentation by the Grantham Group was postponed, but that as a result, "there will be a traffic study done for pedestrian and traffic flow at all the intersections in the area here." Board member Leslie James raised a question about Medicare Advantage enrollment, asking if it "should be announced to the... people if they want to change their Medicare Advantage products," sparking a brief discussion on the topic. Representing the Friends of the COA, board member Susan Pope had a brief update, saying, “I'm gonna be quiet this month and next month because the last event we had was the Christmas fair.” A motion to adjourn was made and seconded. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 6:13 p.m.