08/31/2026
Flipping the Script on Aging
What if the story we tell ourselves about aging is all wrong? For many people, aging is associated with slowing down or becoming isolated. But every day at the Easthampton Council on Aging (ECOA), older adults are proving a different story: one of friendship, purpose, and connection. "Without it, I would be lost," says Carol Mahon, describing the ECOA transportation service. “With it, I go on day trips and tours with drivers and volunteers who love what they're doing and really care.”
September is National Senior Center Month, and ECOA encourages the public to start flipping the script about aging being an individual problem to solve. “Communities thrive when everyone is supported across their lifespan and aging is considered a normal part of life,” said Director Cynthia Tarail. “The conditions for successful aging, where older adults can be active and as healthy as possible, are not solely dependent on individuals’ lifestyle choices. They require that older people have access to affordable health care, food, housing, education, wellness and social activities, care when needed, and transportation.” Grocery trip rider Ray Homstead said, “I like the ability to use the transportation system because I don't drive, and it's just handy as can be to have somebody come by, pick me up, take me grocery shopping.”
In September, the center invites residents of every generation to stop by to meet neighbors or bring a friend or family member for a tour. Knitting instructor Kathie Nowill said the “Easthampton Senior Center has dealt me an ACE! Activities, Companionship and Education. It's not easy for a 'senior' to make new friends, but the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by the staff has ensured an environment that attracts the kind of convivial companions that might otherwise be missing from my life.” Whether you're looking for a ride, an exercise class, Medicare guidance, ways to be useful, or simply a welcoming place to belong, there's a place for you or someone you care about at the ECOA.
Take advantage of ECOA’s offer of free transportation to the center and free on-site activities for the month of September to celebrate National Senior Center Month. Secure a SHINE appointment for Medicare Open Enrollment. Explore tax work off. See why Easthampton residents call the center a lifeline. Call 413-527-6151, visit the center at 19 Union Street, and explore our website. Check out what people are saying about why they use ECOA here: https://www.easthamptonma.gov/999/Celebration-September-2026.
The best way to change how we think about aging is to experience it differently. ECOA invites the community to discover what's possible when we flip the script together.
