Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! The Senior Work-Off Abatement Program allows taxpayers to provide services to the town in exchange for a reduction in their tax bill. One must be over the age of 60 and own and occupy, as a principal residence, the property for which Marion taxes are paid. Only one qualifying resident of the property may participate. Hourly compensation is based on the current state minimum wage and may not exceed $750.00. This program runs from November 1st through October 31st. Registration for this program takes place in October. Even if you have participated in this program in previous years you still have to register each year. When registering you must bring a photo id, a copy of your current tax bill, and a copy of your trust (if applicable). To find out when registration will be held an announcement will be placed in the COA newsletter or you may call the COA office at 508-748-3570.

The state of Massachusetts now offers a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week elder abuse hotline that is staffed by a live operator.

Protective Services are services designed to eliminate or alleviate abuse of an elder. Caseworkers work with family and community agencies to form a connection. Elder abuse can include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse along with caretaker neglect, financial exploitation, and self-neglect. Those 60 years and older living in the community are protected under the law.

Helpful services may include assistance with locating resources for things such as counseling, housing and legal services, safety planning, family intervention, money management, legal assistance, advocacy, transportation, and homemaker services.

Callers can remain anonymous. To report elder abuse call 800-922-2275. While the initial intake is centralized, all reports will be referred to local Protective Service Agencies for screening and if indicated investigation and service planning.

Coastline Elderly Services provides home-delivered Meals on Wheels five days a week to individuals who are unable to leave their homes without difficulty. On some occasions, weekend and/or pureed meals are also available. To find out if you or a loved one is eligible for home-delivered meal service, please call Coastline at 508-999-6400.

You must be at home to receive your meal. We are not legally allowed to leave a meal outside of our home. If you need to cancel your meal for one day or several days, you must call Coastline at 508-999-6400 at least 24 hours in advance.

Every once in a while, due to a hurricane or severe snowstorm, we have to cancel our meal delivery. In the event of severe weather, you can check our website or call our office to verify closing. We also announce the closing of local cable and radio stations.

Memory Café is a weekly gathering for individuals with early to moderate Alzheimer's type or other memory loss with their care partner, family, or friends, in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment. It's a time and place where everyone can interact, find support, establish friendships, and share concerns without feeling embarrassed or misunderstood.

Why attend? Experiencing memory loss can make the world a bit confusing and lonely at times. Word searching can be difficult and frustrating. Social outings used to be fun and something to look forward to but are now challenging. Staying home, and avoiding embarrassing moments is much easier. We worry about what others will think of us. Coming together with others who are experiencing the same challenges we are makes us feel more accepted and relaxed. A Café focuses on our strengths, allows us to meet new people and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

The Marion Waterfront Memory Café is free, including lunch. Donations are accepted. Registration is not mandatory but appreciated 508-748-3570. We meet every Wednesday (with the exception of the day before Thanksgiving) from 11:30 am - 2 pm.

Yes, but you may need to bring a travel companion. The Council on Aging is available to provide transportation if you’re having a medical procedure either at the doctor’s office or hospital. Before scheduling your ride, please check with the surgeon’s office regarding their discharge policies. If you’ve had anesthesia they may require you have a friend or travel companion with you.

Yes, but you may need to bring a travel companion. The Council on Aging is available to provide transportation if you’re having a medical procedure either at the doctor’s office or hospital. Before scheduling your ride, please check with the surgeon’s office regarding their discharge policies. If you’ve had anesthesia they may require you have a friend or travel companion with you.