Q: A friend and I recently attended an arts program at a local senior center that brought together older adults and high school students. It was such a great experience, and it made me realize how lucky I am to regularly spend time with my own grandchildren. Some...
Ask Joan: Grandparents raising grandchildren need help
Question: My close friend was recently awarded full custody of her two young grandsons. She is a loving, devoted grandparent and shared with me that she is sometimes overwhelmed by her responsibilities. A friend suggested your agency might offer some...
What help is available for grandparents raising their grandchildren?
Q: A neighbor of mine recently was awarded custody of her grandchildren. For numerous reasons, the children's parents are not involved in their care nor will they be allowed to in the future. My neighbor refused to allow the children to be put in the foster care...
Beware of fraudulent offers for COVID-19 testing
Beware of fraudulent offers for COVID-19 testing from door-to-door, grocery store, telephone and mail order offerings— It is probably a scam! Lawrence, MA: The Massachusetts Senior Medicare Patrol (MA SMP) Program warns the public to be wary of anyone other than a...
How a Grandchild Can Receive Social Security Disability Benefits Under Their Grandparents’ Benefits
Nationally there are more than 3 million grandparents who are raising and financially supporting their grandchildren, and that number is increasing every year. Grandparents who are receiving either Social Security disability benefits or Social Security retirement...
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...
Let’s Thank the Caregivers
November is National Family Caregiver Month. Every President since President Clinton has made a proclamation to recognize the caregivers in our country before we sit down to eat turkey and pie on Thanksgiving. So what does a national month name dedication mean? Well,...
Bombarded with information, SHINE to the Rescue!
This may be how you feel at this time of year if you are eligible for Medicare, already have Medicare, or turning 65 soon. With television advertisements that tell you they have the best plan for you, the extra mail stuffed into your mailbox that falls out of your...
Latino Caregiver Event! Evento para Cuidadores Latinos!
Yes it is that time of year again! October brings Pumpkins, Pumpkin coffee, football, sweaters and beautiful fall foliage to the New England area. We have one more exciting event to add to the fall in the Merrimack Valley, Our Latino Caregiver Event. On October 28th...