Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. Did I see something from AgeSpan on social media about microplastics? I’d love to learn more about this issue. I want to do more to reduce the problem in my home – especially when my grandchildren are visiting. What’s your...
Ask Joan: Breaks in routine can be unsettling for some
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. My wife was diagnosed with dementia about a year ago and an incident over the holidays has me worried. We were both looking forward to having my daughter and her family visit, but while they were here, my wife tried to get in...
Add a new podcast to your list of new year’s resolutions
Looking to try something new in 2026? Why not check out a new podcast? Like a radio show that you can listen to whenever you want, podcasts are a great way to learn something new, find inspiration, or simply enjoy being entertained. If you’ve never listened to a...
Ask Joan: It’s the perfect time to reassess your finances
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. It seems like every week I get invited to another free financial seminar. I’ve never gone to one, but I have always been curious. Are they a good way for a retiree to get good financial advice? I want to keep better track of...
Ask Joan: As the year closes, much to be grateful about
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer As 2025 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to thank you for spending part of your year with me here in this column. Over the past 12 months, we have explored topics from fraud prevention to the joy of having a pet. We’ve...
Ask Joan: Winter safety tips can ease the challenges
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. My parents are in their 70s and still living in my childhood home. They’re very independent but I do worry about them more during the winter months, when it might be harder for me to get to them if they need help. Are...
Ask Joan: Surviving our feelings during the holidays
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. My mom is in her 80s and has always loved the holidays. This year, she says she’s just not in the mood to celebrate. Should I be concerned about this? How should I handle it? A. The holiday season can be a time of joy and...
Ask Joan: Lifelong learners deserve plenty of applause
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer We had a wonderful celebration of lifelong learning at our recent AgeSpan Annual Luncheon and Inspiring Lifelong Learning Awards event – honoring five remarkable older adults from the Merrimack Valley and North Shore. I always...
Ask Joan: Celebrating National Home Care and Hospice Month
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...
