Resources for Older Adults in Watertown

*A comprehensive Directory of Senior Services is available from the Watertown Council on Aging / Senior Center.  Click here to view it online. Call the  Watertown Senior Center (617-972-6490) for a print copy.  It contains listings of resources in Watertown and the surrounding Metro area on many topics.
*The Watertown 2020 Community Resource Directory is another detailed listing of services and assistance. It was compiled by the Watertown Service Provider Network. Click here to view it online.
*You may also find helpful the senior resources listings compiled by neighboring communities such as Belmont, Lexington, and Waltham.

These agencies are the places to start to find the services you need and learn about community events and programs.

Click on the agency or service name for details and contact information.

Website:  www.watertown-ma.gov/128/Council-on-AgingSenior-Center;  

https://www.ci.watertown.ma.us/131/Programs-Services

Telephone: 617-972-6490

The Watertown Council on Aging/Senior Center provides a variety of social, health, educational, recreational, advocacy and support programs designed to help Watertown’s older adults age well in the community. Services include:

  • transportation assistance (shopping bus, medical appointments, emergency situations, rides to the senior center);
  • fitness classes and many other recreational opportunities and interest groups;
  • health screenings and clinics;
  • health insurance counseling;
  • income tax preparation;
  • senior parking permits;
  • social worker for support, case management and help getting benefits;
  • information and referrals for other services.

Call the Senior Center or visit the website pages listed above for details about services and activities and to read the current newsletter.  Ask to join the mailing list to receive your own copy.

The Council on Aging administers the food pantry, which provides food assistance to any Watertown resident in need. The Pantry is located at:

Belmont-Watertown United Methodist Church

80 Mt. Auburn St. (rear, around the left corner of the church), Watertown, MA 02472

Tuesdays, 10:00 am – 11:30 am; Thursdays, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Bring identification including proof of address (driver’s license, rent or utility receipt.) A five-day supply of food is available each month, as well as information about other food pantries in the area. For more information or to make a donation, call the Council on Aging at (617) 972-6490.

Website: https://springwell.com/services/

Telephone: 617-926-4100; TTY: 617-923-1562

Email: inforef@springwell.com

Springwell is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to helping people who need long-term services and supports to remain independent and healthy in the setting of their choice.  

Many types of assistance and services are available through Springwell, including in-home services to help you live independently or help caring for a loved one. Many services are free of charge. For details visit the website or call and speak to an Information and Consultation Specialist.

Lunch program in Watertown:  Springwell offers a Community Lunch Program which is served Monday – Friday at 55 Waverly Street, for any Watertown resident age 60 and older. Suggested $2.00 donation. Call the dining manager at (617) 923-2769 for menu Information and to register.

Website:  https://www.watertownlib.org/

Telephone:  617-972-6431

The Watertown Free Public Library offers many programs and services of interest to all ages. For example, it offers free movie nights, workshops for beginners on how to use computers, and hosts Watertown Social Services Resource Sessions

Sign up to receive free monthly newsletter by email, with news about upcoming events: visit www.watertownlib.org/newsletter or ask the Reference Desk.

Website: https://www.ci.watertown.ma.us/

Telephone:  A list of Town department phone numbers can be found at this website: https://www.ci.watertown.ma.us/directory.aspx  

If you aren’t sure which department you need inquire at the office of the Town Clerk: 617-972-6486.

For general town departments and services see the Town website or call Town Hall, as listed above.

Here are some Town-sponsored programs of special interest to older adults:

Property Tax Work-Off

The Town of Watertown funds this program yearly for up to 10 seniors to work as many as 136 hours for a Town Department for a $1,500 property tax deduction (2018). The individuals must meet specific requirements. Call the Senior Center at (617) 972-6490 for details or click here for 2018 Property Tax Work-Off Application. https://www.ci.watertown.ma.us/DocumentCenter/View/25081/2018PropertyTaxFlyer_Application?bidId=

Community Wellness Programs

For information about the following programs contact Stephanie Venizelos, Community Wellness Program Manager Tel. (617) 972-6446

Watertown Housing Authority

Website: www.watertownha.org

Telephone: 617-923-3950

Operates publicly-subsidized rental housing for income-eligible seniors (age 62 or over) and people with disabilities. Call for information about vacancies and how to apply.

Helps Watertown residents find the social services they need, such as resources for your family, fuel, food and rent assistance, and a variety of support and counseling services. Funded by the Town of Watertown and other agencies; based at the Wayside Multi-Service Center, 127 North Beacon Street, Watertown, MA, 02472.

Contact: Jenna Willis
Services by appointment only; the SSRS will return phone calls within 48 hours.
Telephone: 617-744-9585
Email: jenna_willis@waysideyouth.org