Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. I just learned that my best friend and her husband don’t have wills. I couldn’t believe it! What should I say to convince them that this is something they really need to do? A. Wills aren’t the most pleasant things to talk...
Ask Joan: Power of Pets more than just a fundraiser
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer This week in my column, I want to let you know about a special event that raises funds to meet a growing need in our community – supporting older adults in keeping and caring for their pets. AgeSpan’s Power of Pets fundraiser...
Ask Joan: Don’t be afraid to ask questions about fire safety
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. The recent news about the fire at the Fall River Assisted Living Community has me so upset. I can’t imagine how the families of those who lost their lives must be feeling. I hope there will be changes so nothing like this...
Ask Joan: Sometimes the Hardest Thing to Do Is Ask for Help
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. My parents are in their 70s and living on their own. They both have some health issues, so I help them with appointments, errands, and tasks around the house. I love spending time with them, but I also have my own busy...
Shoveling Sand Against the Ocean: Marian LeBlanc’s Struggle with Homelessness
When 71-year-old Marian LeBlanc stood at the podium at the Massachusetts Statehouse and told her story, she hoped it would reach people who could bring about change – for herself and the growing number of others like her. The former teacher and grandmother joined...
Ask Joan: When the Doctor Suggests Strength Training
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. At my most recent checkup, my doctor suggested I start doing strength training. I am in my late 60s and consider myself pretty active. I go for walks, either by myself or with friends, several times a week. Do I really need...
Ask Joan: Tips for Staying Cool this Summer
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. My 80-year-old mom lives by herself in an older home that doesn’t have central air conditioning. She does have window units in her bedroom and family room, but she rarely uses them because she is worried about the cost of her...
Ask Joan: Including Elderly Relatives on Family Vacations
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. Now that summer is finally here, I am planning a vacation with my husband and two teenaged children. We decided to ask my in-laws to join us. They are in their late 70s and we have never traveled with them, but they are both...
Ask Joan: Having those Difficult Conversations
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. My aunt and uncle live out of state, so I don’t see them very often. On a recent visit, I noticed that my aunt was having trouble remembering specific words. She also asked me the same questions a few times. My uncle and...
Ask Joan: Patient Safety Awareness Week offers plenty of tips
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer 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...