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Meals on Wheels

Old Colony Elder Services’ Nutrition Menu Now Available Online. Special Meals offered in May.

OCES logoOlder adults and individuals with disabilities who receive home delivered meals and/or who attend Old Colony Elder Services’ (OCES) Community Dining sites will now be able to learn what’s on the menu simply by visiting the OCES website at www.ocesma.org.

OCES, the non-profit agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, has recently added a “Nutrition Menu” link on their website.

Now, home delivered meal recipients and community site diners can view OCES’ Nutrition Menu for the entire month. Each day includes a description of the meal and a listing of calories, sodium and carbohydrate counts. The daily nutrition information listed is for the entire meal, including the protein, starch, vegetable, dessert/fruit, bread, margarine, milk, soup and condiments. All of OCES’ meals are based on a no-added-salt diet for healthy older adults.

OCES’ nutritionist Barbara Nalen-Cardosa, RDN, LDN plans the meals and works with their caterer, Lindley Food Service, to develop the menu. All meals meet one-third of the Recommended Daily Allowance for major nutrients. Cardiac meals are available upon request if a lower salt diet is needed. Therapeutic meals (renal, ground, puréed or lactose-free meals) are also available for Meals on Wheels recipients and may be arranged through an OCES Care Manager. The therapeutic meals are carefully planned to be similar to the regular menu.

The Meals On Wheels program serves adults age 60+ and individuals with disabilities under the age of 60 and is essential for those who would otherwise not get a nutritious daily meal. Older adults who are homebound, unable to prepare meals, manage their grocery shopping or attend one of OCES’ Community Dining Sites may contact OCES to arrange for home delivered meals.

Older adults interested in going out for lunch are encouraged to attend a Council On Aging (COA) Community Dining Site and enjoy delicious meals, social interaction and fun activities.

Special Meals in May at Wareham, Easton and East Bridgewater Community Dining Sites 

On May 16, 2016 at the Wareham dining site, an “Independence Day Special” themed cold picnic lunch will be offered, which includes cranberry juice, cold oven fried boneless chicken breast, spinach Mandarin orange salad, potato salad, light Italian dressing, garlic dinner roll and strawberry shortcake.

On May 18, 2016 at the Easton site, the Traveling Chef will serve roast beef, brown wild rice blend, honey glazed carrots, whole-wheat dinner roll and butter, raspberry filled cookies and milk.

On May 19, 2016 at the East Bridgewater site, the themed meal is “Taste Of Italy”, with cannelloni cheese pasta with red sauce, cauliflower and zucchini, baked tomato half, Scali bread and Amaretto mousse with topping.

The Nutrition Menus are now published on OCES’ website, as well as in local newspapers and COA newsletters. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton and designated as one of 26 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and people with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 235 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers.

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Growth and Expansion – Old Colony Elder Services Opens a Second Office in Plymouth

Monica Mullins, Diana DiGiorgi, Betty DeBenedictis and Brenda Carrens
Monica Mullins, Diana DiGiorgi, Betty DeBenedictis and Brenda Carrens

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and people with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities, is expanding and has opened a new office at 204 South Meadow Road in Plymouth, MA.

OCES officially announced the opening of their new 7,200 square-foot office with an Open House on March 2, 2016. Dozens attended the event, including State Representative Matt Muratore, Monica Mullins District Director, and Betty DeBenedictis, Legislative Aide to State Representative Thomas Calter.

The new location will better enable OCES to accommodate growth. The agency’s main office, which houses 200 of their 235 employees, is located at 144 Main Street in Brockton. The Plymouth office currently has 25 employees, with room for up to 50. The Plymouth office is home to OCES’ Volunteer Program; key departments such as Home Care, Senior Care Options, Nutrition, and Information and Referral are also represented.

“We serve 23 towns with a comprehensive array of specialized programs which have been developed to address the unique situations and circumstances faces by older adults and individuals with disabilities,” explained Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director. “We’re very pleased to have a second location that not only gives us room to grow, but is a bit closer to our consumers, caregivers, volunteers and service partners located around the Plymouth and Wareham areas.”

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton and designated as one of 26 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and people with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 235 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

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Moving Heels for Meals on Wheels – OCES Announces 5K Road Race/Walk

Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES
Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES

Lace up your running shoes and join Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) on Sunday, March 20, 2016 for their first annual “Moving Heels for Meals on Wheels” 5K Road Race/Walk.

In a new initiative to help grow and sustain OCES’ Meals on Wheels program, which serves approximately 30,000 meals a month to older adults in the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, OCES will hold a 5K Road Race/Walk at Silver Lake Regional High School, 260 Pembroke Street in Kingston, MA 02364. The race starts at 9:00 a.m.

Prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place male and female winners. Adult registration for the Moving Heels for Meals on Wheels 5K costs $25 online or $30 on-site. Student (age 11-18) registration is $20 online or $25 on-site. Child (age 10 and under) registration is $15 online and $20 on-site.

T-shirts and gift bags are included with registration, and refreshments will be provided. Online registration will be open through the end of the day on Friday, March 18th. The registration deadline to receive a t-shirt is March 8th.

To register, visit www.southshoreracemgmt.com and click on March races.

Sponsorships are also available. To sponsor the race, visit ocesma.givezooks.com/events/moving-heels-for-meals-on-wheels or contact Chris McLaren at OCES, 508-584-1561, extension 309.

“We’re excited about our first annual 5K Road Race, as it promises to be a fun event for all ages,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director. “With the community’s support and participation, we will be better able to meet the increasing demand of providing meals to older adults and people with disabilities.”

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton and designated as one of 26 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and people with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 235 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

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Wareham March for Meals a Success

Howard Goodwin with Judy Whiteside, Wareham Selectwoman
Howard Goodwin with Judy Whiteside, Wareham Selectwoman

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency that serves older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, recently organized a “March for Meals” in Wareham.

March for Meals is part of Meals On Wheels Association of America’s (MOWAA) national campaign. On March 26, 2015, elected officials from Wareham and OCES staff delivered meals to 10 recipients in the community.

Alan Slavin, Chairman of the Board of Selectmen, and Judy Whiteside, Selectwoman, also helped pack meals at the congregate site before delivering meals. They were accompanied by Christine McLaren, OCES Community Programs Manager, Maribeth Waldron, OCES Nutrition Program Supervisor and Cheryl Johannessen, OCES Meal Site Manager in Wareham, as they delivered meals to local seniors.

“It’s an honor to have local officials participate in our March for Meals event. Many older adults are homebound, unable to prepare meals, manage their grocery shopping or attend one of our congregate meal sites.  The Meals On Wheels program is essential for those who would otherwise not get a nutritious daily meal. Furthermore, the daily social contact is a crucial safety check of older adults living alone,” explained Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.

The Meals On Wheels program serves individuals age 60 and over who are unable to prepare their own meals. Both the home delivered Meals On Wheels program and the congregate meal sites rely on the assistance of OCES’ volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering for the meals program, or want more information about other volunteer opportunities, contact OCES’ Volunteer Coordinator at 508-584-1561.

Lunch reservations for older adults and individuals with disabilities at the Wareham congregate meal site may be made by calling Cheryl Johannessen at 508-291-3100, extension 6514. Older adults who are interested in receiving meals delivered to their homes can call OCES at 508-584-1561 and request an assessment.

About Meals On Wheels Association of America
MOWAA is the only national association and network dedicated solely to ending senior hunger in America. For more information, visit their website at www.mowaa.org.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 210 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

 

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Multi-Town March for Meals a Success

State Representative Keiko Orrall delivers a meal to Elin Young
State Representative Keiko Orrall delivers a meal to Elin Young

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities, recently organized a “March For Meals” in Middleboro, Plymouth and Stoughton.

March for Meals is part of Meals On Wheels Association of America’s national campaign.  Elected officials from the three communities along with OCES and Council on Aging representatives delivered meals to 25 recipients in their respective communities to show support for this vital program.

In Middleboro, State Representative Keiko Orrall and Tim Valentine, Assistant Executive Director of OCES, delivered meals to local seniors.

In Plymouth, Selectman Mathew Muratore, Conni DiLego, Director of Plymouth Council on Aging and Tim Valentine, Assistant Executive Director of OCES, delivered meals to seniors.

In Stoughton, Selectmen John Anzivino and Cynthia Walsh joined Christine McLaren, Community Programs Manager of OCES and Karen Hall, Director of Stoughton Council on Aging, delivering meals to Stoughton seniors.

“It’s an honor to have local officials participate in our March for Meals event. Throughout the area, many seniors are homebound and unable to manage their grocery shopping or attend one of our congregate meal sites.  The Meals On Wheels program is essential to them, as they would otherwise not get a nutritious daily meal. Furthermore, the daily social contact is crucial to check on the safety of seniors living alone,” said Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.

The Meals On Wheels program serves individuals age 60 and over who are unable to prepare their own meals.  Both the Home Delivered (Meals On Wheels) program and the Congregate Meal sites rely on the assistance of our many volunteers.

Meals On Wheels volunteers and donations are needed. For more information about volunteering, contact OCES’ Volunteer Coordinator at (508) 584-1561. Donations to support OCES’ Nutrition Program may be sent to: Old Colony Elder Services, 144 Main Street, Brockton, MA 02301.

About Meals On Wheels Association of America
The Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) is the only national association and network dedicated solely to ending senior hunger in America. MOWAA is the oldest and largest organization composed of and representing local, community-based Senior Nutrition Programs in all 50 states as well as the U.S. territories. MOWAA’s vision is to end senior hunger by 2020. To obtain more information about MOWAA or to locate a local Meals On Wheels program, visit the MOWAA website at www.mowaa.org.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 179 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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Congresswoman Katherine Clark and Health Care Leaders Highlight the Mass Home Care Annual Event

Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES
Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers, recently announced that Mass Home Care will hold its 31st Annual Meeting on Monday, June 16th at 11:30 am at the Burlington Marriott, One Burlington Mall Road. Health care reform affecting the state’s 1.3 million elderly residents is on the agenda.

The group’s event will feature: Congresswoman Katherine Clark; David Seltz, Executive Director of the state’s Health Policy Commission; Lois Simon, President of the managed care provider Commonwealth Care Alliance; Senator Patricia Jehlen of Somerville, Elder Affairs Senate Chair; and Representative James O’Day of West Boylston, Elder Affairs House Chair.

“This gathering brings together a freshman Member of Congress, the head of the state’s newest health care regulator, the President of a prominent managed care company serving older adults and disabled people, and the two chairs of the legislature’s Elderly Affairs Committee,” said Al Norman, Executive Director of Mass Home Care.

“We are looking forward to Mass Home Care’s annual event which will highlight health care reform, particularly the accomplishments made and the issues that still need to be addressed,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of Old Colony Elder Services.

Mass Home Care will also present its annual Community Care Linkages award to four health care practitioners who have helped bridge the gulf between health care and long term support services for older adults: Andrey Ostrovsky, M.D, CEO of Care At Hand, Pediatric Resident, Boston Medical Center;  Cheryl A. Warren, R.N., of Hallmark Health; Richard Balaban, M.D., Cambridge Health Alliance; and Marilyn Wright, R.N., Beth Israel Deaconess Care Organization.

About Mass Home Care

Founded in 1983, Mass Home Care has helped shift the focus of elder care from institutions to the community. A network of 30 independent care coordination agencies, Mass Home Care wrote the state law that says seniors have the right to receive care in the “least restrictive setting”. Family members can be paid as personal care attendants because of the advocacy of Mass Home Care. The group has expanded the range and scope of home care services in the Commonwealth, adding care options and funding to ensure that even people needing 24/7 supports can live at home. Mass Home Care member agencies manage the daily care for more than 75,000 elders and individuals with disabilities, and investigate reports of elder abuse on behalf of the Commonwealth.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 179 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

 

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Old Colony Elder Services, Brockton COA and HarborOne Bank to “March Against Elder Abuse” on Friday, June 13th – Community Invited

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers, has joined forces with Brockton Council on Aging (COA) and HarborOne Bank to “March Against Elder Abuse” on Friday, June 13, 2014 at 12 p.m. at Brockton COA, 10 Father Kenney Way in Brockton.

The International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations has designated June 15th of each year as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. In an effort to raise awareness of elder abuse, OCES, Brockton COA and HarborOne Bank have organized the march down Main Street.

Community members are invited to join the “March Against Elder Abuse”. Participants will walk down Main Street to OCES, 144 Main Street, before returning to Brockton COA. Following the walk, participants will enjoy a free lunch. Guest speakers will share information on how to assist elders in need and answer questions.

“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an opportunity to share information and spread awareness about abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults. We can make a difference and encourage the community to join our ‘March Against Elder Abuse’ in Brockton on Friday, June 13th,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director at OCES.

To join the march, RSVP by June 6th to Jessie Almeida at 508-584-1561 extension 330 or jalmeida@oldcolonyelderservices.org.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 179 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

 

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Christine McLaren named Community Programs Manager for Old Colony Elder Services

C McLarenChristine McLaren has been named Community Programs Manager for Old Colony Elder Services (OCES).  In her new capacity, Mrs. McLaren will now manage both the organization’s Nutrition and Healthy Living Programs.

OCES’ Nutrition program provides over 34,000 nutritionally sound and satisfying meals per month to older adults (60 plus) and individuals with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts. The program includes 23 congregate meal sites at Councils on Aging and public housing communities plus the delivery of meals for those who cannot attend the sites.

OCES’ Healthy Living program provides evidence-based workshops in both English and Spanish to teach individuals about the prevention and management of chronic diseases and other health concerns. These workshops are held throughout OCES’ service area.

With five years of tenure with OCES, Mrs. McLaren had previously worked 20 years in the property and casualty insurance industry in operations and marketing.  “I wanted to segue into the helping profession,” noted Mrs. McLaren who started as a volunteer long-term care ombudsman.  She added, “My expanded position at OCES allows me to have a positive impact on many older adults and to enjoy a fast paced environment.”

Mrs. McLaren concluded, “Providing tasty and nutritious food to older adults is an on-going challenge and we work closely with older adults, nutritionists and registered dieticians to obtain feedback, try new recipes and keep our menus interesting and appealing.”

A Canton, MA resident, Mrs. McLaren earned a BA in Liberal Arts from Middlebury College and a Certificate in Gerontology from the University of Massachusetts/Boston.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living.  The agency has 179 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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Old Colony Elder Services Sponsors 11th Annual LGBT Senior Pride Tea Dance

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Brockton and Plymouth County, is a sponsor for the “11th Annual Pride Tea Dance for LGBT Seniors and Their Friends”, on Sunday, June 8, 2014.

The Pride Tea Dance for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Seniors and Their Friends will be held from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn at 1200 Beacon Street in Brookline. The LGBT Senior Pride Coalition is hosting the event during Boston Pride Week, June 6 to June 15, 2014.

“OCES supports this event and is striving to create greater awareness of this population. OCES aspires to support everyone without exception,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.

Tickets are $12 each and may be purchased at the Pride Tea Dance on June 8th.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 communities in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization located in Brockton and designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 179 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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