Ask Joan: What accessory dwelling units mean for older adults
Q. I read that Accessory Dwelling Units are now permitted by-right statewide in Massachusetts. How can older adults take advantage of this new law? A. Massachusetts’ new law permitting Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) by-right statewide, which took effect in January 2025, offers significant opportunities for older adults to age in place and maintain their independence….
Ask Joan: Patient Safety Awareness Week offers plenty of tips
Q. I can’t make it to all my parents’ medical appointments, and I’m often worried about keeping up with all the information they are being given. What can I do to ensure their safety? As we observe Patient Safety Awareness Week (March 9-15), it’s important to acknowledge the critical role caregivers play in ensuring the…
Ask Joan: Unsung heroes: Social Workers make Society Better
March is an important time to recognize the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to support individuals and communities in need. It’s Social Work Month, a time to honor the impactful work of social workers and raise awareness about the critical role they play in our society. Social workers are often unsung heroes, working on the…
Ask Joan: Caregivers deserve so much gratitude
Q. There are so many people I know who are caregivers for their family or work as professionals in the industry. What can I do to show my appreciation and support for those who provide such compassionate care? This past week was National Caregivers Day, a dedicated moment to honor and celebrate the incredible caregivers…
Ask Joan: Celebrate Black History Month
Every February, we come together to celebrate the incredible contributions, achievements, and sacrifices of African Americans during Black History Month. This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor”, invites us to explore how work, whether free or forced, skilled or unskilled, vocational or voluntary, has shaped the lived experiences of Black people throughout history. The labor…
Ask Joan: Here’s some signs of neglect, abuse
Q. I often wonder about some of the older adults in my neighborhood and whether they are being neglected by family or caregivers. What are some of the things I should look out for? A. Elder abuse is a serious issue that can affect vulnerable adults, often in their own homes or in care facilities….
Ask Joan: Important to stay hydrated during the winter
Q. I’m worried that my parents aren’t staying hydrated enough, especially in the winter months when it’s so dry and they have the heat up. Do you have any tips I can give to them? Staying hydrated during the winter months can be just as important as in the warmer seasons, especially for older adults….
Ask Joan: Bathroom safety
Q. As my mother’s mobility gets more limited, I’m concerned about her bathing and the risk of getting hurt. What can I do to improve the safety of her bathroom? As we age, our balance, strength, and flexibility can diminish, which increases the risk of accidents in the bathroom. Bathing, while a necessary and relaxing…
Ask Joan: Carbon monoxide detectors can be lifesavers
Q. I was devastated to read about the Massachusetts family that died from carbon monoxide poisoning. It made me think about the safety of my parents’ place. What can I do to help them prevent household dangers like this? That story was truly heartbreaking. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a silent, often deadly threat that…
AgeSpan Teams Up with Northeast Arc’s STEP Program to Deliver Joy and Meals to North Shore Residents
AgeSpan’s Meals on Wheels program delivers over one million meals annually, serving adults aged 60 and older, as well as qualified individuals with disabilities. Offering a hot meal five days a week directly to their door, this vital service helps keep recipients nourished and connected. But AgeSpan doesn’t do it alone. Volunteers and community partners…
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