Ask Joan: Alcohol can interact with medications
Q. My mother still likes to have a glass of wine or two most days, which seems okay, but I’m wondering what the risks are given her age. A. Many people enjoy a glass of wine every now and then. Alcohol can affect each of us differently so it’s important to discuss usage with your…
Ask Joan: Sleep is the elixir for good health
Q.I know my parents struggle with getting good sleep as they get older. Is there anything I can suggest for them? A. Sleep plays such a vital role in our physical, mental, and emotional health. But as we age, getting restful sleep can become more challenging. Factors such as changes in our sleep cycle, health…
Ask Joan: Practical Steps to Create a Safer, More Organized Home
Q. I struggle with helping my parents keep their living space organized. What are some steps I can take to get them moving in the right direction? A. As people age, their homes often accumulate belongings, making it difficult to navigate or maintain an organized living space. Decluttering is not just about tidying up but…
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….
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