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Old Colony Elder Services

Paul Raia, PhD Speaks About “Alzheimer’s Perfect Storm” at Old Colony Elder Services

May is Older Americans Month and the Administration on Aging (AoA), an agency of the U.S. Administration for Community Living, has announced that this year’s theme is “Unleash the Power of Age”.

According to the AoA, “People across our nation are achieving remarkable things in later life. Many older adults are experts in their fields, have years of valuable experience, and are using that knowledge to improve the lives of others.”

In honor of Older Americans Month, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), a private, non-profit agency designated as an Aging Services Access Point (ASAP), hosted a talk by Paul Raia, PhD, an innovator and renowned expert in the field of dementia.

Dr. Raia spoke to OCES staff and board members about the “Alzheimer’s Perfect Storm”; he shared definitions and demographics, current research and Habilitation Therapy, an approach that he developed more than 20 years ago that is now accepted as the best standard of care.

Dr. Raia has been directing patient care and family support at the Alzheimer’s Association for over 22 years, and now serves as vice president of clinical programs at the MA/NH Chapter. He developed the Habilitation Therapy approach to dementia, which focuses on the patient’s emotions and their remaining capacities. As a frequent contributor to various publications and journals, Dr. Raia has written primarily on dementia as a treatable condition. He serves on the Editorial Board of the American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease and frequently appears as an expert on Alzheimer’s for television, radio and print news media. Dr. Raia has been recognized by several organizations for his distinguished service receiving awards from The Massachusetts Gerontology Association, the Massachusetts State Legislature, the Alzheimer’s Association, the Massachusetts Bar Association and the Massachusetts Homecare Association.

“Dr. Raia is a pioneer in the field of dementia and we were very fortunate to have him as a guest speaker to share his vast knowledge of Alzheimer’s Disease, research and Habilitation Therapy,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 towns 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. The organization’s 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 169 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving elders, 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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First Annual Plymouth County Senior Spectacular Expo on June 20, 2013

The Plymouth Networking Group, an organization of business professionals committed to providing care to seniors and other individuals in the Greater Plymouth area, announces the First Annual Plymouth County Senior Spectacular Expo to be held on June 20, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Plymouth Council on Aging, 44 Nook Road. The Senior Spectacular Steering Committee members include: 2 Sisters Senior Living Advisors; Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department; Old Colony Elder Services; North River Home Care; Age in Place New England; Life Care Center of Plymouth; EasCare Ambulance Service; Visiting Angels; Spaulding Rehabilitation Network; Cahoon Care; and Gentiva Home Health.

Seniors, their families and caregivers are invited to explore, connect and enjoy this free event which will showcase senior resource agencies and dozens of vendors offering services of interest to seniors such as organizing and relocation services, legal and financial resources, senior travel specialists, pet-sitting and other in-home service options. The Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department will be able to provide Senior ID’s as well as present information on Identity Theft and Scams. Reiki, vision and hearing screenings and other demonstrations will round out this exciting event.

Attendees will have an opportunity to participate in raffles and enjoy refreshments including a complimentary box lunch. For more information please visit: www.plymouthnetworking.com or contact Beth Hadfield at the Plymouth Council on Aging at (508) 830-4230.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 towns 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. The organization’s 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 169 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving elders, 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 Announces Multi-Community “Mayors for Meals ” A Huge Success

Mayor Linda M. Balzotti delivered a meal to Diane Damon

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), a private, non-profit agency designated as an Aging Services Access Point (ASAP), recently held Mayors For Meals in the communities of Brockton, East Bridgewater, Plymouth and Stoughton.

Mayors For Meals is part of the Meals On Wheels Association of America’s March For Meals national campaign. Elected officials, law enforcement officers, Council On Aging (COA) Directors and OCES representatives from the four communities participated in the event to show their support for their community’s homebound and hungry seniors.

OCES’ Mayors For Meals event was held on Wednesday, March 20th in Brockton and Stoughton. Mayor Linda M. Balzotti and Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES, delivered noon-time meals to Brockton area seniors. Selectman John Anzivino, Karen Hall, Director of Stoughton COA and Courtney Niebauer, Nutrition Program Manager at OCES, delivered the meals in Stoughton.

On March 21st, Mayors For Meals was held in East Bridgewater. Police Chief John Cowan, Sergeant Steve Brown and Officer Tallitha Connor of East Bridgewater Police along with Nancy Hill, Director of East Bridgewater COA; Timothy Valentine, Assistant Executive Director of OCES; and Courtney Niebauer, Nutrition Program Manager of OCES, delivered the noon time meals.

Mayors For Meals was held on March 26th in Plymouth. Chairman of Plymouth Selectman Matt Muratore along with Constance DiLego, Director of Plymouth COA and Timothy Valentine, Assistant Executive Director of OCES, delivered the meals to Plymouth seniors.

“We’re very fortunate that many of our elected officials, law enforcement and COA Directors were able to participate in our Mayors For Meals event, which encompassed four communities,” said DiGiorgi.

She continued, “We have seniors who are homebound and unable to manage their grocery shopping or attend one of our congregate meal sites. The Meals On Wheels program is absolutely 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.”

The Meals On Wheels program serves individuals age 60 and over. Both the Meals On Wheels program and the congregate meal sites rely on help from volunteers. For more information contact the OCES Nutrition Department at (508) 584-1561.

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 towns 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. The organization’s 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 169 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving elders, 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 Promotes Amanda Frates, LCSW to Adult Family Care Program Manager

Amanda Frates, LCSW

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), a private, non-profit agency designated as an Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) located in Brockton, has promoted Amanda Frates, LCSW to the position of Adult Family Care (AFC) Program Manager.

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Ms. Frates previously held the position of AFC Program Care Manager at OCES for three years. In her new role as AFC Program Manager, she will oversee the entire AFC Program including quality assurance, administration and outreach as well as care management. Ms. Frates will manage the program’s supervisory and administrative staff.

Ms. Frates has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Bridgewater State University and a Master of Social Work from Boston University. She is a resident of East Taunton.

OCES’ AFC program is a sensitive and economical alternative for persons who are faced with the prospect of no longer being able to manage alone. Call OCES for more information.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES serves 20 towns in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES is a private, non-profit organization designated as one of 27 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The organization’s 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 169 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving elders, 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 Offers 7 Tips for Caregivers this Holiday Season

According to the National Family Caregiver Association’s website, 29 percent of people in the U.S. provide care for a chronically ill, disabled or an aging family member or friend and at least 20 hours per week are spent providing care (Caregiving in the United States; National Alliance for Caregiving in collaboration with AARP; November 2009).

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), a private, non-profit corporation serving seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers throughout greater Brockton and Plymouth County, offers 7 Tips for Caregivers this holiday season:

1. Be kind to yourself. Caregiving can be very hard work; take time to appreciate the loving care you provide. Know that every day you are doing the best you can.

2. Take care of yourself. Make and keep your own doctor’s appointments and other appointments that help to keep you well.

3. Remember to ask for help. People will often be happy to assist if they know what is needed; Caregivers need a break too.

4. Reach out to others for professional support if needed.

5. Set limits for what you are able to do; no one can do everything.

6. The best decisions are joint decisions; when possible, include the person for whom you are caring in matters that will affect him or her. This helps to reduce conflict and can lead to better outcomes.

7. Do your best to remain optimistic; this will help to lift everyone’s mood. When difficulties arise, know that this too, shall pass.

“The holidays can be a stressful time of year, but more so for caregivers. Many family caregivers are spouses, some of whom have their own health issues. Others are daughters and sons, more than half of whom are trying to hold down a job and take care of their own children as well. It’s very important that caregivers take care of themselves in order to avoid burnout and remain physically and emotionally healthy,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, OCES’ Executive Director.

About OCES

Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) 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, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers in 23 communities 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 support the independence and dignity of elders and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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Old Colony Elder Services Offers Raffle Tickets to Raise Funds for Frail Elders in Crisis Situations

In an effort to raise money for frail elders in crisis situations, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), a private, non-profit Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) located in Brockton, is creating an emergency fund for frail elders by offering raffle tickets for $5 each. The raffle tickets are available throughout December and January and the proceeds go towards food, fuel and medications for elders who are on a fixed income and in a crisis situation.

A total of $1,300 in cash prizes will be awarded beginning in February. One winner will be selected per day. Cash prize values vary. Winners will be notified by phone and posted online at www.OldColonyElderServices.org.

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

“Last year, proceeds from the raffle tickets enabled us to assist a number of elders such as a 66 year-old man who had lost his health insurance and could not pay for oxygen and a 90 year-old woman who couldn’t pay for heating oil. This year, we expect the number of elders in need will increase. We hope to raise at least $6,000 to be put aside in an emergency fund for elder in crisis situations,” explained Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.

About OCES


Incorporated in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) 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, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers in 23 communities 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. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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OCES receives grant from Tufts Health Plan Foundation for caregiver workshop

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) the Brockton based regional elder services agency serving seniors, their families and caregivers throughout greater Brockton and Plymouth county, has been awarded a generous grant from the Tufts Health Plan Foundation, which will fund their upcoming “It’s About Time” free workshop for caregivers. The workshop will be held on November 8, 2012 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lakeville Council on Aging, located at 1 Dear Crossing in Lakeville.

The workshop will teach caregivers techniques and strategies for managing time and reducing stress. Topics to be covered include:

Meal preparation
Time Management
Relaxation Techniques
“The ‘It’s About Time’ workshops teach strategies which help caregivers avoid burnout and remain physically and emotionally healthy while they provide essential care-giving services,” noted Diana DiGiorgi, OCES’ Executive Director.

The “It’s About Time” workshop is offered in partnership with the Lakeville Council on Aging. OCES received a grant of $6,054 from the Tufts Health Plan Foundation which funds this program.

Attendees will receive lunch and a companion book for the program. Class size is limited so pre-registration is required. Respite care is available upon request.

Caregivers must register for the workshop by contacting Rochelle Sugarman at OCES (508) 584-1561 ext 312.

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, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers in 23 communities 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. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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Old Colony Elder Services Encourages Individuals & Businesses to Take The 2012 Giving Common Challenge October 10 & 11

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) is pleased to announce that they are participating in the Giving Common Challenge, which will take place over 36 hours (beginning at 8:00 a.m. October 10th and extending to 8:00 p.m. October 11th). OCES will join more than 500 other nonprofits to raise money and compete for prizes ranging from $1,000 to $25,000. If OCES is one of the first 10 nonprofits to get 50 donors, they will win a $1,000 prize. If OCES raises more funds than other nonprofits, they have a chance to win a grand prize of $25,000.

Donors have an impact on the quality of services provided to elders and individuals with disabilities living in the local community who are most in need. With donations from our generous donors, OCES is able to provide needed services and assistance to thousands of elders and individuals with disabilities so they can remain living in their homes.

Organizations taking part in the Giving Common Challenge will raise funds and compete for a total of $150,000 in prizes during the 36-hour event.
Mark your calendars because OCES needs your help! OCES may be found under the “Human Services” category of Giving Common at www.givingcommon.org.
About Giving Common

The Giving Common, an initiative of the Boston Foundation, is an innovative web-based resource designed to provide comprehensive and current information about nonprofit organizations across Massachusetts, and to make informed, online charitable giving easy, quick and meaningful. To learn more about Giving Common and the Challenge, visit the website at www.givingcommon.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 serves elders, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers in 23 communities 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. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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Old Colony Elder Services Advises Elders About Fall Prevention

Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director

Saturday, September 22nd was “National Falls Prevention Awareness Day” which is observed annually on the first day of Fall. Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional elder services agency serving seniors, individuals with disabilities and caregivers, shares specific information about fall prevention.

“National Falls Prevention Awareness Day” increases public awareness of how to prevent and reduce falls in elders. This year’s theme, Standing Together to Prevent Falls, sought to unite professionals, older adults, caregivers, and family members to play a part in raising awareness and preventing falls in the older adult population.

Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES explained, “According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), in 2008, there were more than 20,000 older adults who died from injuries related to unintended falls. Falls are not normally a part of aging and are preventable, yet far too many elders are admitted into hospitals and nursing homes each year due to falls.”

According to the National Council on Aging:
-Falls are NOT a natural or normal part of aging.
-Anyone can fall. Staying home and limiting activities does not prevent falls.
-It’s never too late to regain muscle strength and start (a physician approved) exercise program, which will help you increase strength and develop better balance.
-Walkers and canes are helpful aids as long as they have been properly fitted.
-Vision loss can increase the risk of falls. Be sure to have your eyes examined annually.
-Elders should also have their medications reviewed periodically.
-Elders should consult with a health professional and have a fall risk assessment done.
“Reducing the number of trip hazards in the home and adopting a physician-approved exercise regimen to strengthen muscles and improve balance are two key ways that elders can reduce the incidence of falls. We need to stand together as a community and raise awareness of preventive measures that can keep elders safe in Massachusetts,” noted DiGiorgi.

About NCOA
The National Council on Aging is a nonprofit service and advocacy organization headquartered in Washington, DC. NCOA is a national voice for millions of older adults—especially those who are vulnerable and disadvantaged—and the community organizations that serve them. It brings together nonprofit organizations, businesses, and government to develop creative solutions that improve the lives of all older adults. NCOA works with thousands of organizations across the country to help seniors find jobs and benefits, improve their health, live independently, and remain active in their communities. For more information, please visit: www.ncoa.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 elders, 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, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers in 23 communities 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. For more information call (508) 584-1561 or visit the website at www.oldcolonyelderservices.org.

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