Ask Joan: Reconsider preconceived notions about older Americans
Q. When I listen to the radio or watch the news lately, I hear a lot of stories about how older generations are holding younger generations back. My husband and I are both retired, but that doesn’t mean we have it easy! Does it seem like Baby Boomers are getting the blame for everything these…
AgeSpan Welcomes Barbara Solomon as New Regional SHINE Director
Barbara Solomon understands that “adult paperwork” can be overwhelming, and as SHINE’s new regional director, she’s on a mission to make Medicare enrollment easier for older adults in the Merrimack Valley and North Shore. SHINE stands for Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone, and it’s a program that offers free, unbiased Medicare counseling. “Things…
Ask Joan: Celebrate your local friends during National Senior Center Month
This week in my column, I’d like to recognize an important resource in our community that offers more than you might think: your local senior center. September is National Senior Center Month, and this year’s theme is “Happier Birthdays Happen Here.” It’s a good reminder that a happy birthday isn’t really about the cake –…
Power of Pets Event Supports Older Adults and Their Pets
This year’s Power of Pets fundraiser was an event to remember! Whether they rode in on a motorcycle or walked in on two legs or four paws, donors and supporters from around the region came together for an evening of fun to support older adults and the pets they love. The event, which was held…
Ask Joan: Some steps to take to prevent falls at home
Q. One of my neighbors recently fell at home and ended up in the hospital. I have been praying for her recovery. But since we’re the same age, it’s also been a wake-up call for me. What are some things I can do around my own home to prevent a fall? A. I join you…
Ask Joan: Suggestions for soon-to-be first-time grandparents
Q. My daughter and her husband just announced they are expecting a baby! My husband and I are over the moon about becoming grandparents for the first time. We know a lot has changed since we had our children. Any advice for new grandparents? A. Congratulations! You and your family are about to embark on…
Ask Joan: Caregivers must balance life’s stresses with helping out
Q. My good friend has been in and out of the hospital recently and just returned home after a stay in a rehab. Her wonderful daughter has been taking care of her, but it’s been hard for her daughter to balance caregiving and her job. My friend is on Medicaid and is nervous about accepting…
Ask Joan: What to bring when heading to the hospital
Q. A recent visit to the hospital with my wife turned into an overnight stay. I wanted to stay with her, but I didn’t have my own medications, so I had to leave early and come back the next day. She’s home and doing well now, but the experience got me thinking that I should…
Ask Joan: AgeSpan hosting Power of Pets fundraiser
If you’re a regular reader of this column, you probably know that in addition to being an advocate for older adults in the Merrimack Valley and North Shore, I’m also an animal lover. My two dogs, Willow and Max, are not just pets, they’re a part of my family. Pets give us unconditional love, companionship…
Ask Joan: Disability placards and license plates can be real game changer
Q. Although my 79-year-old older sister quit smoking a few years ago, she has COPD, which makes it hard for her to walk long distances. I keep telling her she should get a handicapped pass for her car, to make it easier for her when she shops, etc. She says it’s too hard to get…
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