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Old Colony Elder Services

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.

 

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

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.

 

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

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.

Christine McLaren named Community Programs Manager for Old Colony Elder ServicesRead More

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.

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

Old Colony Elder Services Announces Family Caregiver Workshop on June 12th in Whitman

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers, is holding an “It’s About Time” workshop on Thursday, June 12, 2014 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Whitman Council on Aging, 16 Hayden Avenue in Whitman.

The “It’s About Time” workshop is a free event for family caregivers of older adults and grandparents raising grandchildren. Caregivers are taught techniques and strategies for managing their time and reducing stress. Topics covered include meal preparation, time management and relaxation techniques.

This workshop is offered in partnership with the Whitman Council on Aging. Funding is provided through a generous grant from the Tufts Health Plan Foundation.

“The ‘It’s About Time’ workshop teaches caregivers the much-needed strategies which help them to avoid burnout and remain physically and emotionally healthy while they provide essential caregiving services,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director at OCES.

There is no cost to attend the workshop and a companion book will be provided free of charge.  Attendees will also enjoy complimentary lunch and raffles. Class size is limited and pre-registration is required.

To register, contact Rochelle Sugarman, Outreach and Education Specialist in the Family Caregiver Support Program at OCES (508) 584-1561 extension 312.

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.

Old Colony Elder Services Announces Family Caregiver Workshop on June 12th in WhitmanRead More

Old Colony Elder Services Promotes Elizabeth DosSantos to Senior Care Options Program Manager

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities, has promoted Elizabeth DosSantos to Senior Care Options (SCO) Program Manager.

In her new role, Ms. DosSantos will oversee the SCO Supervisors working with the Geriatric Support Services Coordinators. She will be responsible for training, ensuring compliance, and clarifying procedures among other managerial duties. The SCO program seeks to ensure that elder participants can remain living safely in the community as long as possible. As a certified interpreter in Portuguese and Cape Verdean languages, Ms. DosSantos is a valuable member of the SCO department and OCES management.

Prior to OCES, Ms. DosSantos worked part-time as a Residential Counselor at BAMSI in Brockton for 1.5 years. She began working at OCES in 2006 as an intern. In 2007, she was hired as Geriatric Support Services Coordinator and, in 2010, was promoted to SCO Program Supervisor.

Ms. DosSantos, a Brockton resident, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Bridgewater State University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Healthcare Management at Cambridge College. She is also pursuing her license in social work (LSW).

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 173 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.

Old Colony Elder Services Promotes Elizabeth DosSantos to Senior Care Options Program ManagerRead More

Old Colony Elder Services Offers Calcium & Osteoporosis Workshop on May 12th

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers, is offering a Calcium & Osteoporosis Workshop on Monday, May 12, 2014 at 12:30 p.m. at Belair Towers, 105 Belair St. in Brockton.

This free workshop will cover the connections between calcium and osteoporosis and will include such topics as: osteoporosis and what it means to you; how to read food labels; Vitamin D and bones; calcium consumption and the foods you eat.

The workshop will be led by Donna-Marie Forand, Outreach and Education Specialist at OCES. Ms. Forand is a Master Trainer in Evidence-Based Programs, including Chronic Disease Self Management, Diabetes Self Management, Chronic Pain Self Management and Healthy Eating.

For more information or to register for this free workshop call Linda Marshall-Bibby at Belair Towers, 508-427-9166.

If you are interested in holding this or other workshops at your site, contact Donna-Marie Forand at 508-584-1561, extension 237.

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 173 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.

Old Colony Elder Services Offers Calcium & Osteoporosis Workshop on May 12thRead More

Old Colony Elder Services Announces Lower Sodium Workshop on May 19th

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers, will hold a workshop entitled “Sodium and the Effects On Your Blood Pressure” on Monday, May 19, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at the Brockton Council on Aging (COA), 10 Father Kenney Way in Brockton.

This free workshop will cover such topics as:  how to measure your blood pressure; what are some causes of high blood pressure; what foods are high sodium; and why reading food labels is important.

The workshop will be led by Donna-Marie Forand, Outreach and Education Specialist at OCES. Ms. Forand is a Master Trainer in Evidence-Based Programs, including Chronic Disease Self Management, Diabetes Self Management, Chronic Pain Self Management and Healthy Eating.

For more information or to register for this free workshop call Michelle Brace at the Brockton COA, 508-580-7811.

If you are interested in holding this or other workshops at your site, contact Donna-Marie Forand at 508-584-1561, extension 237.

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 173 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.

Old Colony Elder Services Announces Lower Sodium Workshop on May 19thRead More

Safe and Sound. Old Colony Elder Services hosts training on Social Worker Safety.

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities, held a two-day social worker safety training at their office that involved all the organization’s staff including Care Managers and Protective Services Workers.

The extensive training was facilitated by Sara McCabe who works with the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and is the current Residential Director with the Wayside Youth & Family Support Network in Framingham, MA. Ms. McCabe is certified by NASW as a trainer and has been teaching the topic for seven years.

Topics for the Safety Training For Social Workers program included working with violent consumers; assessing and predicting risk factors; verbal de-escalation; developing a safety plan of action; setting boundaries; developing safety protocols; and tracking safety incidents.  Continuing Education Units (CEUs) were given to participants.

“Safety for social workers is an essential concern in our workplace,” noted Terri Kourtz, Protective Service and Money Management Director of OCES.  “This training program is a catalyst for thinking and taking proactive steps towards maintaining safety for all of our staff and consumers.”

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 173 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.

 

Safe and Sound. Old Colony Elder Services hosts training on Social Worker Safety.Read More