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aging in place

Autumn Safety Check List offered by FirstLight Home Care

When leaves begin to change color and bright summer suns become a memory, older adults are faced with a new set of challenges. Wendy Adlerstein, LSW of FirstLight Home Care of West Suburban Boston has helped put together an Autumn Safety Check List so you make sure aging parents, grandparents and other seniors in your life are protected.

Maintain Heat

– Reduce risk of hypothermia by making sure older adults’ homes are insulated, stocked up on heating fuel and have functioning HVAC systems. If their fireplace isn’t going to be used, close the flue so that heat won’t escape.

Address Fire Hazards

– Electric blankets and space heaters can help keep up older adults’ body heat, but they also pose a fire risk. Make sure these devices are working properly and are not showing wear on their cords or other electric components. Consider investing in a modern space heater that turns off when it gets too hot or tips over. Power-strips with timers are a potential solution for these devices as well.

Eliminate Debris

– Leaves, sticks and other Autumn refuse in walkways and other frequently traveled areas can result in slips and tripping. Keep the property safe and aesthetically pleasing at the same time by racking it or removing debris with a leaf blower.

Fight the Flu

– Catching the flu can have serious consequences for seniors. Vaccination is the best line of defense against influenza.  You should also encourage older adults to avoid those who are already sick, wash their hands and keep surfaces clean with disinfectant. They can also improve their immune system with improved diet and exercise.

Breathe Easy

– Maintain proper home ventilation by removing debris from vents. You should also test carbon monoxide detectors and replace their batteries.

About FirstLight Home Care

Wendy Adlerstein, LSW, who has more than 20 years of experience in working with seniors. She holds a B.A. from Clark University, in Psychology with a concentration in Sociology and Human Services. In addition to her Massachusetts License in Social Work, Wendy holds a Certificate in Gerontology from the Worcester Consortium Gerontology Program.

She is a member of the Aging Life Care Association (ALCA), formerly the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. Finally, Wendy is a Certified Dementia Practitioner® in good standing from the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners.

FirstLight Home Care is a leading provider of non-medical home care, helping individuals in more than 30 states achieve the quality of life they deserve. The company has set a new standard in home care by creating an unmatched Culture of Care that drives industry-leading client and employee satisfaction. FirstLight is a lifeline not only for seniors, but for people recovering from illness, injury or surgery; adults with disabilities; and anyone over the age of 18 who needs extra assistance. Care can be provided at private residences, as well as independent and assisted living communities.

For additional information, please contact FirstLight Home Care of West Suburban Boston, (781) 559-0220, https://www.firstlighthomecare.com/home-healthcare-west-suburban-boston/contact/.

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According to Right at Home South Shore president, Love and Companionship Result in a Healthier and Longer Life

Libet Callahan, RN, BSN, president of the South Shore's Right at Home

With the arrival of Valentine’s Day on February 14, February has been designated as the month of love. But dark chocolate isn’t the only sweet gift that is good for the heart – building strong relationships and socializing with others play a vital role in living a longer and healthier life. The medical profession has been telling us for years that eating right and getting regular exercise will improve longevity. However, many physicians are now saying that maintaining positive relationships also can contribute to keeping people healthy. In numerous studies, researchers have found that people who have strong friendships and have the opportunity to socialize with others, age better, recover from illness more quickly, have stronger immunity and live longer, more personally fulfilling lives.

The connection between relationships and life expectancy is not a new theory. In a recent study at Brigham Young University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill involving more than 300,000 men and women across the developed world, researchers found that those who were considered to have poor social connections and limited opportunity for socialization had an average of 50 percent higher odds of death (an average of 7.5 years) than those with “robust” social ties and regular socialization. That is a significant difference not only in longevity, but also, in quality of life.

Among the aging, the lack of ongoing relationships and regular socialization is a common concern. For many aging adults their relatives, neighbors and friends move, go into long-term-care or die, leaving them isolated and alone. One health problem reported by Medical News Today links the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in old age to social isolation. Loneliness was linked to lower levels of cognitive function as well as more rapid decline of general physical function. People who identified themselves as “lonely” experienced double the risk of developing Alzheimer’s than those who described themselves as “least lonely”. It is estimated that 28 percent of Americans older than age 65 live alone, which exacerbates this problem. It is important for seniors and their caregivers to be aware of the potential for social isolation and how to create opportunities to develop personal bonds with others.

Here are some considerations to minimize senior isolation and loneliness:
Encourage your aging loved one to participate in local activities at their church, synagogue or senior center. Many senior centers offer transportation to and from the facility at low or no cost.
Coordinate with siblings and relatives to ensure that your loved one receives a visit or at least one phone call daily.
Adult day care centers can be a great resource for socialization and cognitive stimulation.
Senior Homecare agencies like Right at Home can provide vetted companions that offer socialization as well as help with food preparation, light housekeeping and transportation to doctor appointments, shopping or just to go visit a friend.
Keep in mind that love from friends and family could be the key to ensuring a longer, happier life, not just on February 14, but all year long. Remember your aging loved ones this Valentine’s Day by giving a cherished gift – your time.
About Right At Home

Right at Home provides non-medical in-home care services to seniors and disabled adults throughout the South Shore. Right At Home is among the first in the state to earn Accreditation from the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts. As a private-pay home care agency, Right At Home can provide services in settings other than the home, such as in assisted living facilities, continuing care retirement facilities, skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers and hospitals.

Right at Home provides care services of companionship, homemaking, physical assistance, hygiene and wellness. In addition, Right At Home accommodates clients in special care situations providing home care for Alzheimer’s and other dementia, osteoarthritis, hypertension/stroke, diabetes, heart disease, neuromuscular diseases and disorders, cancer recovery, hospice/palliative care support, mental health, traumatic brain injury and paraplegia/quadriplegia. All Right At Home caregivers are fully insured and bonded, must pass a vigorous background check, complete a training program and pass a competency test before being placed with a client.

The company serves the following areas: Abington, Braintree, Bridgewater, Brockton (East Side), Carver, Cohasset, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Hingham, Holbrook, Hull, Kingston, Marshfield, Middleboro, Milton, Norwell, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Randolph, Rockland, Scituate, Wareham, Weymouth and Whitman. Right at Home has offices located at 800 Hingham Street, in Rockland, MA and 38 Resnik Road in Plymouth, MA. For more information contact 866-681-3545 or visit the website at http://www.rightathome.net/southshore/.

According to Right at Home South Shore president, Love and Companionship Result in a Healthier and Longer LifeRead More

Elder Agency Selling Calendars to Help Seniors in Crisis

In an effort to raise money for seniors in crisis situations, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional elder services agency serving elders, individuals with disabilities and caregivers in 23 towns in the Plymouth county and Brockton areas, is selling Fundraising Calendars for $5 each.

The Fundraising Calendars, which will offer cash prizes, are available now and may be purchased through January 2012. Proceeds from the calendars go towards OCES’ Emergency Assistance Program which will help with purchases such as food, fuel and medications for seniors who are on a fixed income and in a crisis situation.

A total of $1,750 in cash prizes will be awarded to Fundraising Calendar holders via daily random drawings to be held in February 2012. There will be one winner named per day and the cash prize values will vary. Winners will be notified by phone and winning numbers posted online at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

To obtain a Fundraising Calendar, contact OCES at (508) 584-1561 or send an email to LDallaire@oldcolonyelderservices.org.

About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is a private, non-profit corporation designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver Support; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services and Home Care.

OCES elders, individuals with disabilities and caregivers in 23 towns in Southeastern Massachusetts: Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.

The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.

The agency has 157 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org

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Old Colony Elder Services Announces “My Life, My Health” Chronic Disease Self-Management Programs in English and Spanish

Arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, cancer and asthma are illnesses and chronic conditions that affect seniors at a much higher rate than younger adults.

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) is helping seniors and others dealing with chronic diseases take charge of their own health by offering FREE My Life, My Health Chronic Disease Self-Management Programs (CDSMP) in English and Spanish. The programs are designed to give people with chronic conditions and/or their caregivers the knowledge and skills needed to take a more active role in their health care.

The first Spanish speaking session will be held on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Neighborhood Health Center, 63 Main Street in Brockton.

The first English speaking session will be held on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Abington Council on Aging, 441 Summer Street in Abington.

Each program runs for six consecutive weeks.

My Life, My Health CDSMP programs teach individuals:

How to deal with issues such as frustration, pain, isolation and fatigue.
How to exercise to improve strength and endurance.
How to improve nutrition by healthier eating.
How to set goals and speak effectively with doctors or other health care professionals.
How to use medications properly.

Partial funding for the OCES My Life, My Health CDSMP was provided by a grant from Greater Brockton Community Health Network Area (CHNA). These programs are offered to seniors residing in the Greater Brockton CHNA service area including Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Holbrook, Stoughton, West Bridgewater and Whitman.

OCES’ My Life, My Health program is FREE and lunch will be provided each week. Seating is limited. To sign up for the program, contact Dottie Slack at (508) 584-1561.

Old Colony Elder Services is seeking Spanish and English speaking volunteers who would like to become My Life, My Health CDSMP trained leaders. Contact Dottie Slack at (508) 584-1561.

About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services is a private, non-profit corporation designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver Support; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services and Home Care.

OCES serves elders, their families and caregivers in 23 towns in Southeastern Massachusetts:
Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.

The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.

In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 157 employees. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org
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Old Colony Elder Services to Hold Elder Abuse Awareness Event on June 8th

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Steven V. Dubin, PR Works, (781) 582-1061, sdubin@prworkzone.com

Old Colony Elder Services to Hold Elder Abuse Awareness Event on June 8th

DATELINE: BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA.
Old Colony Elder Services, an elder services agency providing supportive resources to seniors living in greater Plymouth county and the Brockton area, will hold an Elder Abuse Awareness Event on Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at 2 pm at the Conference Center in their Brockton office located at 144 Main Street. This event is open to the public and there is no cost to attend. Light refreshments will be served.

In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15th), Old Colony Elder Services will be showing the documentary film “An Age for Justice – Confronting Elder Abuse in America” produced by the Elder Justice Now campaign. In the video, older Americans share their personal stories of neglect, physical or emotional abuse and exploitation. Along with the video, a number of guest speakers will also address the subject. Educational material will be distributed during the event.

Last year alone, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) assisted 800 abused or neglected elders within the Plymouth county and Brockton area. OCES’ Protective Services department helps elders who have been victims of abuse by providing resources such as medical, legal, psychological, financial and housing assistance.

Elder abuse ranges from physical, sexual, psychological and economic abuse to neglect. OCES has outlined some warning signs of abuse from the National Center for Elder Abuse:

Physical Abuse ‐ Slap marks, unexplained bruises, most pressure marks, and certain types of burns or blisters, such as cigarette burns
Sexual Abuse ‐ Bruises around the breasts or genital area and unexplained sexually transmitted diseases
Emotional Abuse ‐ Withdrawal from normal activities, unexplained changes in alertness, or other unusual behavioral changes
Financial Abuse/Exploitation ‐ Sudden change in finances and accounts, altered wills and trusts, unusual bank withdrawals, checks written as “loans” or “gifts,” and loss of property
Neglect ‐ Pressure ulcers, filth, lack of medical care, malnutrition or dehydration

“To help create greater awareness of what constitutes elder abuse; how to recognize it and assist elders in need, we’re holding this event on June 8th at our Conference Center,” noted Diana L. DiGiorgi, Executive Director of Old Colony Elder Services. “As Baby Boomers age and the elder population increases, raising awareness about this growing problem is imperative.”

To report suspected elder abuse or neglect, contact OCES’ Protective Services at (508) 584-1561, or the statewide Elder Abuse Hotline at 800-922-2275.

About Old Colony Elder Services
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) is one of 27 private, non-profit corporations designated as Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES offers a number of programs to seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver Support; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services and Home Care.

OCES serves elders, their families and caregivers in 23 towns in Southeastern Massachusetts: Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.

The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization. In 2009, Old Colony Elder Services was honored with the Metro South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 140 employees and operates more than 12 programs serving elders, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org

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Money Management Program at Old Colony Elder Services Needs Volunteers and Donor Support

 

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), a non-profit Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) is in need of volunteers as well as donor support to keep the Massachusetts Money Management Program (MMMP) running.

The MMMP helps vulnerable, low-income elders who are at risk of losing their independence due to their inability to pay rent, food and utility bills. Money Management volunteers help these elders by establishing a budget for them, organizing their mail, helping them write checks to pay their bills and balancing their checkbook.

Money Management volunteers must be capable of basic financial tasks and have a willingness to commit their time once or twice a month. Volunteers are not reimbursed for mileage, so they are generally matched with elders who live in the same town.

Due to underfunding, the MMMP relies on the generosity of donors. Donations in support of the local MMMP may be sent to Old Colony Elder Services, 144 Main Street, Brockton, MA 02301. Be sure to state that your donation is specifically for the MMMP.

“The MMMP is a free service for qualified elder clients. We are always seeking funds to keep the program up and running, train volunteers and work with clients. The need is significant in all 23 towns we cover, but especially so in Brockton,” explained Brenda Carrens of OCES.

 

To request an application to volunteer for the Money Management program or for more information about making a donation, contact Brenda Carrens, OCES’ program coordinator, at (508) 584-1561 extension 252.

About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.   OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, families and caregivers such as Family Caregiver; Adult Family Care; Supportive Housing; Nutrition; Money Management; Protective Services; Home Care and more.  OCES serves elders, their families and caregivers in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman. 

The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent unnecessary or premature institutionalization.  In 2009, OCES was honored with the Metro-South Chamber of Commerce’s “Economic Impact Award”. The agency has 140 employees and operates more than 12 programs serving elders, their families and caregivers.  For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.


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November is National Family Caregivers Month – Old Colony Elder Services Holds “Caregiver Night Out”

According to the National Family Caregivers Association, more than 50 million people in the U.S. provide care for a chronically ill, disabled or an elderly family member or friend. November is National Family Caregivers Month and to thank and show their support for family caregivers, the Family Caregiver Support Program at Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) of Brockton recently held a “Caregiver Night Out” appreciation event.

Caregiver Night Out was held in the Great Hall at Halifax Town Hall last week and family caregivers were treated to a delicious dinner and pampered with relaxation techniques by the following providers:

· Joanne Salerno of Light Life Massage providing Kriya Massage, Reiki and Energy Bodywork

· Debra Bunszel of Touch The Sole, a Certified Reflexologist and Reiki Master

· Dee Davidson of Simply Soothing Sanctuary, a Massage Therapist and Shambala Reiki Master

· Melanie Cotti of Essential Touch Massage Therapy, a Massage Therapist, Shambala Practitioner and Reiki Master

According to the National Family Caregivers Association, in 2004, there were 650,636 caregivers in Massachusetts alone. That number has grown exponentially, and last year, OCES’ Family Caregiver Support Program delivered services to over 1,250 caregivers, including 11 elders caring for grandchildren.

Those eligible for the caregiver program include caregivers of adults age 60 or older; grandparents and relative caregivers age 55 or over caring for children up to age 18; grandparents and relative caregivers age 55 or over caring for disabled adults age 19 to 59 and caregivers of adults of any age with Alzheimer’s disease.

“Our Caregiver Night Out gives family caregivers a well-deserved, relaxing evening where they can socialize and gain support from their caregiver peers and our agency. They are thrilled to have the opportunity to talk to each other because oftentimes they are so busy caregiving that they become isolated. The hallmark of our program is to make sure that family caregivers know they are not alone,” explained Rochelle Sugarman, OCES’ Family Caregiver Support Program Supervisor.

She continued, “Our Family Caregiver Support Program works diligently to provide one on one assistance to caregivers, guiding them to resources available in the community as well as helping them to plan for current and future caregiving needs.  We really offer an exploration of the caregiving journey and information, education and resources that may be helpful to make this process as smooth as possible.  We want caregivers to know help is available on an individual basis, through support groups and also through trainings on particular topics such as Caregiving 101.”

To learn more about the Family Caregiver Support Program, contact Rochelle Sugarman at OCES (508) 584-1561.

About OCES
Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) is one of 27 private, non-profit Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  OCES touches the lives of approximately 16,000 people a year. They have 140 employees and operate 20 programs serving elders, their families and caregivers. 

OCES serves elders, their families and caregivers in the towns of Abington, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Carver, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Easton, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Lakeville, Marshfield, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Plympton, Rockland, Stoughton, Wareham, West Bridgewater and Whitman.

The organization’s mission is to provide services that support the dignity and independence of elders by helping them maximize their quality of life; live safely and in good health; and, prevent
unnecessary or premature institutionalization. 

For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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Bringing independence to many, Independence Home Care Launches in Greater Boston

In an effort to meet a rapidly growing need in the marketplace for home care services, Independence Home Care, Inc., providers of private duty non-medical home care to the elderly, has recently launched in Boston.

As a licensed, non-medical home care agency, Independence Home Care offers assistance to elderly, disabled, post-surgical and other clients throughout Eastern Massachusetts. Independence Home Care provides assistance with daily activities that are not covered by Medicare or Medicaid but, in certain situations, may be covered by long-term care insurance.

Services include:

· Specialized Services such as Alzheimer’s care, fall prevention, live-in care, hospital-sitting and 24/7 service.

· Companionship Services that includes socialization activities, reading, playing games, and solving puzzles, depending on what interests our clients.

· Home Helper Services that provide assistance with daily activities, meal planning and preparation as well as light housekeeping.

· Personal Care Services that support individual needs such as daily hygiene and dressing, transportation to medical appointments and medication reminders.

The company strives to maintain the highest level of quality care. Independence Home Care’s bonded and insured caregivers are all experienced and dedicated caregivers who have completed the company’s rigorous training program and undergone state and federal background checks. All caregivers are supervised and monitored.

According to Joan Farahmand, the company’s president, “We saw a strong need for professional home care services in the greater Boston area. As baby-boomers age, the number of seniors needing assistance is increasing significantly. Oftentimes, an elderly person just needs help with dressing, medication reminders, and meal preparation. They are certainly not in need of institutionalization. Independence Home Care provides seniors and their families with an appropriate and affordable alternative.”

The National Family Caregivers Association and Family Caregiver Alliance’s 2004 study estimated the prevalence of caregiving in the U.S. Their findings indicated that in 2004, there were 28,827,766 caregivers in the country providing 30,880 (million) of caregiving hours per year. In 2006, it was estimated that there were between 30-38 million adults providing unpaid care to a relative or friend, averaging 21 hours per week of care.

Farahmand continued, “November is National Family Caregiver’s month where every year family caregivers are recognized. It’s important to note that family caregivers also benefit from our services, since home care provides peace of mind and often much needed respite care for family members, as well.”

Non-Medical Home Care in Greater Boston Area

Independence Home Care, Inc. provides non-medical home care services to seniors and others in need throughout the metropolitan Boston area and eastern Massachusetts. Independence Home Care offers a wide range of individually tailored personal care, home helper, and companionship services. From personal care needs and light housekeeping chores to companionship, Independence Home Care provides a wide array of non-medical services on a temporary or permanent basis.

All of the company’s caregivers are bonded and insured. They have undergone a rigorous training program as well as full background and reference checks. Whether someone needs as little as four hours of home care twice a week or they require full-time daily assistance, Independence Home Care offers an affordable alternative that enables an individual to maintain their independence and remain in their home.

Independence Home Care main office is located at 21 Custom House Street, Suite 910 in Boston. For more information, contact 877-805-9090 or visit www.IndependenceHomeCare.com.

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