Services

 

 

Advocacy

The Newburyport Council On Aging works to protect and support the interests and rights of older and disabled adults.  We partner with agencies and organizations to monitor important legislation, programs, and access to services.

 

Health Insurance

SHINE (Health Insurance) Counseling for Massachusetts Residents

According to the SHINE website, the SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) Program provides FREE unbiased health insurance counseling information and assistance to Massachusetts residents with Medicare, their caregivers and those approaching Medicare eligibility.  ​Statewide, there are more than 600 certified volunteer counselors trained to assist residents with Medicare.

​​To find a local counselor in a city or town near you click here.​​  Newburyport has three volunteer SHINE Counselors who offer weekday morning appointments several days per week; call (978) 462-0430 to schedule an appointment.  SHINE is administered by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elders Affairs under a grant from the Administration for Community Living. The SHINE Program partners with Council on Aging, Elder and Disability Service providers, and other public and private community-based organizations.

SHINE Counselors are equipped to assist with applications for prescription drug programs, Medicare and Mass Health. The counselor also provides information about the benefits of health insurance programs and HMOs and can help older adults with their Medicare paperwork.

SHINE appointments are offered both in-person and over the phone.

Helpful Links Related to Health Insurance:

 

Increasing Engagement/Reducing Social Isolation

The Newburyport Council on Aging offers a variety of in-person (both inside and out), hybrid, and virtual programs-fitness, wellness, support, cultural, educational, games, sports-to appeal to a broad audience.  There truly is something for everyone!

A list of current offerings can be found in our newsletter and in the COA Programming tab.

Contact Activities Coordinator Mary Kelly with your inquiries related to programming, activities, and events:  (978) 462-0430