Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. I know November is National Home Care and Hospice Month, and I’d like to recognize the people who do that kind of work. Can you share what they do and how they help older adults stay independent? A. I’m happy to have...
Ask Joan: New GUIDE Program focuses on dementia, caregivers
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer This week, I’m excited to share some wonderful news about a new program at AgeSpan that will make a real difference for people living with dementia and their caregivers. The GUIDE Program, which stands for Guiding an Improved...
Ask Joan: Staying warm this winter on a fixed income
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. Now that the weather is getting colder, I have been worrying about my heating bill. I am a 78-year-old widow on a fixed income, and I have always been careful about keeping the heat low, but I don’t know if that will be...
Ask Joan: Getting more comfortable as a caregiver
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. My wife was recently diagnosed with early-stage dementia. I have had to help her with things here and there as her condition has developed, but I never expected to be her caregiver. In my generation, men just didn’t learn how...
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
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer 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...
Ask Joan: National Drug Take Back Day: A chance to get rid of expired, unused meds
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer 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...
Ask Joan: Fabulous lifelong learners honored by AgeSpan
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer 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...
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...
Ask Joan: Ageism Awareness Day coming up on Oct. 9
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer 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...
