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Old Colony Elder Services Announces Caregiver Support Group at Hanson Senior Center

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 and individuals with disabilities, offers a Caregiver Support Group on the second Tuesday of each month, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Hanson Senior Center, 132 Maquan Street, Library/Senior Center Building, Hanson, MA 02341.

The Caregiver Support Group is for family caregivers of older adults or younger adults with disabilities. Family caregivers are those who are caring for a parent, spouse, relative or friend residing at home, in an assisted living/nursing facility or perhaps even across the country.

The group provides support for one another and participants learn from each other. Several times a year, speakers address the support group. Topics vary and have included elder law, dementia and community services. There is no fee to attend.

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 Offers Six-Week Program for Family Caregivers Beginning September 16th

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 and individuals with disabilities, is offering a “Powerful Tools For Caregivers” six-week educational program for family caregivers.

The class meets on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Emmanuel House Residence, 25 East Nilsson Street, Brockton, MA 02301. The class begins September 16, 2014 and concludes on October 14, 2014. There is no fee to attend.

Family caregivers who are caring for a parent, spouse, relative or friend can benefit from this class, regardless of whether they are caring for someone residing at home, in an assisted living/nursing facility or across the country.

Attendees will learn how to reduce stress and relax; communicate more effectively; take care of themselves; reduce guilt, anger and depression; make tough decisions; set goals and problem-solve. Complimentary copies of the Caregiver Helpbook will be distributed.

Class size is limited and registration is required. Call Kathleen Ward or Patricia Livie, Class Leaders at (508) 584-1561 extension 348 or 373.

This educational program is presented by OCES Healthy Living Programs and sponsored by Emmanuel House Residence.

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 Offers Six-Week Program for Family Caregivers Beginning September 16thRead More

Traveling Chef Whips Up Delicious Meals at Two Congregate Meal Sites

OCES logoOld Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers throughout the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, offers themed specialty meals prepared by the “Traveling Chef” at two congregate meal sites in August.

OCES’ congregate meal sites provide hot, nutritious noontime meals Monday through Friday to older adults age 60+. Congregate meal participants will enjoy several upcoming themed specialty meals.

“A Taste of Italy” will be held at Brockton Council on Aging (COA) at Mary Cruise Kennedy Senior Center, 10 Father Kenney Way, Brockton on August 12, 2014 at noon. Reservations required.

“BBQ Chicken Lunch” will be held at the Commercial Club, 1 Neilson Ave, East Bridgewater on August 21, 2014 at noon. To reserve a seat, call the East Bridgewater COA at 508-378-1610 by August 14th.

Meals are planned by a Nutritionist and meet one-third of the Recommended Daily Allowance for major nutrients. The meals do not feature high sodium foods and no salt is added. Low-fat milk is provided.

“Anyone age 60 or older is encouraged to attend a congregate meal site where they can enjoy delicious meals, social interaction and fun activities,” said Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES.

Congregate meal menus are published in local newspapers and in COA newsletters. A sample menu may be requested by calling OCES at (508) 584-1561 or visiting the website at www.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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Old Colony Elder Services’ Congregate Meal Sites Offer Special Meals, Activities & Camaraderie

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 throughout the greater Brockton and Plymouth county area, offers themed and holiday meals at their congregate meal sites.

Congregate meal sites provide hot, nutritious noontime meals, Monday through Friday. The meal sites are located at local Councils on Aging (COA) and sometimes at local housing authorities. Themed specialty meals are interspersed with the regular menu to enhance the dining experience. Group activities, along with the occasional “Traveling Chef” who prepares a meal in front of congregate meal participants, adds to the excitement.

The Wareham COA is offering a themed meal, deemed the “Labor Day Special”, on July 21, 2014 at 11 a.m. Mediterranean chicken breast, lemon olive rice, vegetable ratatouille, dinner roll and chocolate fudge cake (with alternate diet brownie) will be served. A “Funny Hat Party” competition will be held and there will be prizes for the most original hat and the funniest hat.

“For many older adults, sharing a meal and companionship at a congregate meal site may be their only interaction with peers,” said Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES. “Anyone age 60 or older is encouraged to attend a congregate meal site where they can enjoy delicious meals, social interaction and fun activities.”

Reservations for the Wareham COA’s Labor Day Special meal are required by Thursday, July 17th. Call 508 291-3100, extension 6514 to reserve a seat.

OCES’ Nutrition Program is designed to enrich older adults’ quality of life by providing nutritionally sound and satisfying meals at the congregate meal sites and through home delivered meals (Meals On Wheels). Meals are planned by a Nutritionist and meet one-third of the Recommended Daily Allowance for major nutrients. The meals do not feature high sodium foods and no salt is added. Low-fat milk is provided. Congregate meal menus are published in local newspapers and in COA newsletters. A sample menu may be requested by calling OCES at (508) 584-1561 or visiting the website at www.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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Old Colony Elder Services Launches “Tai Chi for Healthy Aging” Pilot Program for Older Adults

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 throughout greater Brockton and Plymouth County, has recently launched “Tai Chi for Healthy Aging” community based classes for Older Adults at the Hanover Senior Center, 665 Center Street, Hanover.

Tai Chi for Healthy Aging is an evidence based program for reducing falls. There are 15 participants in the Hanover Tai Chi pilot program who have been learning a total of 10 different Tai Chi Forms designed to promote better balance. The group meets once a week for one hour. The eight-week pilot program concludes on July 22.

Tai Chi is a series of low impact, gentle, focused exercises and stretches. Suitable for adults aged 60 and older, Tai Chi helps improve flexibility, strength and balance. It promotes better breathing which facilitates relaxation, and provides an opportunity for older adults to engage socially in a group setting.

The classes are led by Donna-Marie Forand and Patricia Livie, Outreach and Education Specialists at OCES. Both are trained in leading evidence based programs for OCES’ Healthy Living Programs and received Tai Chi training through Brookline Tai Chi. Brookline Tai Chi received a grant from the Tufts Health Plan Foundation to provide leader trainings.

“Tai Chi can help older adults increase mobility and utilize the skills they learn in daily activities. Tai Chi Forms can be beneficial to those with arthritis or repetitive stress conditions affecting the arms, hands, or wrists,” noted Diana DiGiorgi Executive Director of OCES. “The Tai Chi for Healthy Aging pilot program has been a success and we’ve received positive feedback from participants.”

For more information about Tai Chi for Healthy Aging classes, contact Christine McLaren at (508) 584-1561 extension 309.

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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60 Marched Against Elder Abuse in Brockton

OCES March Against Elder Abuse IMG_7122Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the Brockton based regional agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities, joined forces with the Brockton Council on Aging (COA) and HarborOne Bank to “March Against Elder Abuse”. On June 13th, 60 members from the community and the three organizations marched down Main Street in Brockton in an effort to raise awareness of elder abuse.

June 15th of each year has been designated as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations.

After the march, participants gathered at the Brockton COA where guest speakers Janice Fitzgerald, Director of Brockton COA; Diana DiGiorgi, Executive Director of OCES; Teresa Kourtz, Director of Protective Services at OCES; Pat Foley, Protective Services Intake Worker at OCES; and Bill Carpenter, Mayor of Brockton, shared information on how to assist elders in need and answered questions.

Last year, OCES’ Protective Services Department assisted more than 800 abused or neglected elders. OCES helps elders who have been victims of neglect or harm from a caregiver. Types of abuse include physical, verbal, sexual and financial. When there is a report made to OCES, a Protective Services Worker investigates the report, provides support, and if needed, information about resources such as medical, legal, psychological, financial and housing assistance.

“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an opportunity to share information and spread awareness about abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults. As individuals, and working together, we can make a difference,” noted Diana DiGiorgi.

If you know, or suspect, that an elder is being mistreated or neglected, call OCES’ Protective Services staff at 508 584-1561, or call the Massachusetts Elder Abuse Hotline at 800-922-2275.

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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It’s About Time – Fun Workshop Teaches Caregivers How to Relax and More

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 is sponsoring “It’s About Time”, a special workshop for family caregivers of older adults and grandparents raising grandchildren. This workshop is being offered in partnership with the Duxbury Council on Aging (COA). Funding is provided through a generous grant from the Tufts Health Plan Foundation.

The “It’s About Time” workshop is a free event where family caregivers are taught techniques and strategies for managing their time, making meals and reducing stress.  This workshop will be held on Monday, July 14, 2014 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Duxbury COA, 10 Mayflower St, Duxbury.  There is no cost to attend, but pre-registration is required.

“This is a fun and informative workshop for family caregivers that provides tips on making time for themselves. It’s a supportive atmosphere of camaraderie where experts share techniques for time management and efficient cooking. The event is rounded out with engaging tips for relaxation from a yoga instructor,” noted Diana DiGiorgi Executive Director of OCES. “Our goal is to help family members avoid burnout and remain physically and emotionally healthy while they provide essential caregiving services.”

A complimentary chef-prepared lunch, free companion book and raffles are all included. Pre-registration is required. Contact Rochelle Sugarman, (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.

 

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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.

 

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