Q. I’m noticing my parents are struggling to keep up with their mail and pay their bills on time. Are there resources available to help them stay on track?
With January being National Financial Wellness Month, it’s the perfect time to support your loved ones in assessing and improving how they manage their finances. At AgeSpan, we frequently see older adults facing challenges when it comes to managing their money. The small print on bills, the complicated language in legal and financial documents, and simply staying on top of routine tasks can all make managing finances feel like an overwhelming burden.
That’s where AgeSpan’s Financial Resources Program steps in. We offer a free
Basic Money Management Service designed to assist adults 60 and over, as well
as individuals with disabilities, who need extra help. Through this program,
trained volunteers, carefully matched to each client, help with tasks like
opening mail, paying bills, budgeting, and writing checks. The volunteer and
client establish a regular visit schedule, and the financial records are
independently audited to ensure transparency and protection for both parties. However,
we don’t offer financial advice so if you are seeking that, consult with a certified
financial planner or adviser.
For those who, due to health or legal reasons, cannot manage their own finances, AgeSpan also provides a Representative Payee Assistance Service. Appointed by the Social Security Administration, we serve as a trusted intermediary to handle essential financial responsibilities like housing, food, and healthcare.
Additionally, we host Financial Workshops at various community sites, focusing on critical topics such as financial exploitation, scams, and fraud. These workshops, along with one-on-one assistance through our Financial Resources Program, empower older adults to make informed, confident financial decisions and maintain their financial security.
It’s understandable if you’re feeling overwhelmed, both as a caregiver and as a family member, but know that you don’t have to navigate this alone. This impactful program is powered by compassionate, trained volunteers dedicated to helping individuals protect their financial independence. If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering, visit https://agespan.org/volunteer, or contact us at 978-651-3114 or volunteerprograms@agespan.org.
Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.
Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.
Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves Andover, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen and North Andover.
First published in the Eagle-Tribune.
