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...
Ask Joan: Resources to assist older adults
Question: I am trying to gather information for my next-door neighbors who are in their 80s. Over the past year, they seem to be struggling to take care of their home and get out to do their grocery shopping and run errands. I help when I can, but they need much more...
Comfort pets provide companionship to adults experiencing isolation, memory loss
By Stephen Anable, Communications Specialist Bernadette Cary, 87, is relaxing on her bed in her room at the Sutton Home for Women in Peabody, cuddling a new stuffed dog. It looks like a typical plush toy: blond, roughly a foot high, with an expression that suggests...
“Forever Fit” TV Series Begins Tomorrow, Friday, July 16
Some days, cooking can seem like a time-consuming hassle and making time for exercise falls victim to our busy schedules. But, if we’re told “you are what you eat” and “move it or lose it,” what should we do? This is especially meaningful for older adults...
5 Quick Tips to Handle the Holidays!
My caregiving journey is challenging, but I do not journey alone, and my best is enough. Family Caregiver Holidays can be wonderful. And, holidays can be stressful – especially if you are a caregiver. Here are five quick tips to help you manage the season. 1. Plan any...
“Do I Have Rights as a Caregiver?” Understanding the CARE ACT
As we close out the year and get ready for 2019, it’s important that caregivers are recognized for all the support they give daily to their loved one, and to make sure they understand their rights. Most caregivers know the sacrifices they make but many may be unaware...