National Social Workers Month, which is celebrated each March, has a special significance for us here at AgeSpan. Social workers play an important role in the work we do to help older adults stay independent and safe in communities that support them. It’s something I’ve been reflecting on personally because I’m also a social worker by degree. This year marks 40 years since I graduated from the University of Connecticut with my master’s degree in social work. I’m proud of the work our social workers do to coordinate care, connect older adults with resources, provide support, act as advocates, and so much more.

This year’s theme is Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform. It celebrates the mission of the profession – to meet the needs of others, honor human dignity, and empower individuals and families to reach their full potential. Here at AgeSpan, we see the difference our social workers make every day – in the guidance they offer caregivers, the trust they build with older adults, and the communities they help strengthen.

For caregivers like David Girouard, the support he receives from AgeSpan Family Caregiver Support Group Facilitator Cynthia Hession-Richard, LCSW, is priceless. David is the primary caregiver for his wife, who is living with dementia.

“AgeSpan helped me with resources that I would never have known about otherwise. Cindy is always suggesting new things to try,” David says. “The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to get through it.”

AgeSpan Care Manager Joan Gallagher, LCSW, builds strong connections with her clients on the North Shore, approaching each situation with compassion.

“So many older adults believe that accepting help means letting themselves down. I try to meet them where they are, and act as an encourager,” Joan says.

Social workers navigate systems, manage caseloads, and respond to issues, while also keeping the person at the center of everything they do. As an AgeSpan Resident Service Coordinator, Liz Speranza, LCSW, connects residents at the Methuen Housing Authority with programs and services. But the benefits go beyond that.

“One of the biggest impacts of my role is community engagement,” Liz says. “When the residents have the chance to get out of their apartments and socialize with people they know, it just gets everyone into a better mental space.”

Their work may take place in homes, housing communities, support groups, and offices, but the goal is always the same: helping older adults and caregivers navigate challenges and live with dignity and independence. This month and every month, we are proud to recognize the social workers who make that mission possible.

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. 

Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.