Q. My father was recently diagnosed with hearing loss. I live a distance from him, so our primary means of communication is the phone. He also loves to keep up with friends and family and particularly enjoys talking with his grandchildren. He is becoming very...
Ask Joan: Find out more about the ‘Power of Pets’
Question: I’ve owned cats my whole life, starting when I was a little girl in Methuen. My last cat, Milo, was with me for 15 years before I lost him to cancer last winter. I’ve missed having a pet in my home, and I think I’m ready to welcome a new one. I know they can...
Ask Joan: Get Connected for Good Neighbor Day
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer For this week’s column, I wanted to share my thanks to all of you for taking the time to read, share your insights, and spread the word about services to support all of us as we age. So many of you comment on how the information...
Ask Joan: Navigating mental health challenges in aging
Question: For many years, I have been visiting my 82-year-old mother every week. We have always enjoyed good conversations about our lives, books we read, hobbies we shared and current events. I have enjoyed her energy, stories, and wisdom. Lately, it feels like she...
Ask Joan: Five ways to lower the risk of falling
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. About six months ago, I was walking to my car and fell in my driveway. The fall broke my hip, and I had surgery a few days later. My doctor suggested physical therapy and prescribed pain medication. It’s been an awful...
Ask Joan: Learning to cook for one can be a challenge
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. Last winter, my beautiful wife of 54 years passed away suddenly. I miss so many things about her and am trying hard to adjust to my new life. My wife was an amazing cook, so I never wanted for a meal. Now, I’m struggling...
Ask Joan: You too can go ‘for the gold’
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. This summer, I enjoyed watching the Olympics and seeing so many athletes do remarkable things. Whether it was gymnastics, swimming, archery, or anything in between, I was inspired seeing people “go for the gold.” I know my...
Ask Joan: Caregivers need to tap many ‘lists’
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. Earlier this year, my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. She has her good days and her bad days and recently agreed to join my family in our home. I treasure my time with my mother. At the same time, I find...
Ask Joan: Options counseling for caregivers
Q. I am 76 years old and the primary caretaker of my wife, who has Alzheimer’s. While I love my wife and want to help her, there are days when I am exhausted and struggling, especially when I’ve been up all night with her. Our doctor suggested trying an adult day...
Ask Joan: Dry January gaining traction
Q: I’ve been looking to make some lifestyle changes this New Year, and I’m curious about Dry January. I’ve heard my friends mention it, but I don’t know a lot about it. Can one month really make a difference? What are your thoughts? A: I’ve heard of a lot of...