Rooted in Care: The Transformative Power of Community Health Workers
When Milagros got the keys to her apartment at the Methuen Housing Authority in the fall of 2025, it marked the end of a housing search that took years. It was also the first time in her life she had a place to really call her own. In her 68 years, life has thrown a…
Ask Joan: Don’t be fooled by AI-assisted Medicare scams
Q. I’ve heard scammers are using new technology like AI to trick people with Medicare. What should I watch out for during open enrollment? A. You’re right to be on alert during Medicare Open Enrollment. Scammers are more active during this time and increasingly, they’re using AI. The Massachusetts Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) Program reports…
Ask Joan: National Drug Take Back Day: A chance to get rid of expired, unused meds
Q. I was visiting my parents recently and went into their medicine cabinet to get some aspirin. I noticed that they had quite a few expired medications in there. My mom told me she wasn’t sure what to do with them. I know I should help them with this, but I’m not sure where to…
Ask Joan: Fabulous lifelong learners honored by AgeSpan
In just about a month, AgeSpan board members, staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters will gather for one of my favorite days of the year: the AgeSpan Annual Luncheon. It’s our opportunity to come together to celebrate the accomplishments of the past year and look forward to the work we continue to do together to create…
Empowering Families Through the Personal Care Attendant Program
When mom starts to need help getting dressed in the morning, preparing her meals, or keeping her medications straight, it’s often a daughter or another family member or friend who steps in to help. Spending time helping with these activities of daily living can be very rewarding, but for a caregiver, it can also mean…
Ask Joan: Ageism Awareness Day coming up on Oct. 9
Q. I just started a new job where I will be managing people of all ages. My new team has a lot of young workers at the start of their careers, but also many who are in their 60s and even a few in their 70s. I am not sure how they will work together….
Ask Joan: Sharing financial matters with family is important
Q. As my parents get older, I’m realizing I don’t know much about their financial situation. What steps can I take now to make sure I can help them later if needed? A. It can be awkward to talk with our parents about money, but it’s one of the most important conversations we can have….
Ask Joan: Check with doc when meds cause dizziness
Q. My husband sometimes tells me that he feels dizzy. He recently started a new medication, and I am wondering if that is to blame. I keep telling him to call his doctor, but he says he’s fine. Am I overreacting? A. You’re not overreacting. Some medications can cause dizziness, which may increase the risk…
Opening doors to connection: Supporting residents at the Methuen Housing Authority
For AgeSpan Resident Service Coordinators, sometimes it’s one small thing that opens the door to big changes for the older adults they work with. In the case of RSC Liz Speranza and resident Bernie, it was a Tracfone. As an AgeSpan RSC, Liz is based in the Methuen Housing Authority, connecting residents with programs and…
Ask Joan: Good Neighbor Day Fast Approaching
Q. I recently saw on social media that Good Neighbor Day is coming up and it’s had me thinking of an older woman on my street who lives alone. We’ve both lived here for years, and I know she is still living in her home, but I hardly ever see her. Would it be strange…
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