Maxa Schutzbank Berid, 81, has explored the vastness of our world with an unwavering passion. Her travels have taken her to exotic destinations such as Tibet, Bhutan, and much of Africa. From traversing European landscapes to hiking mountains in the Annapurna Circuit,...
Ask Joan: Dispelling myths about aging
Q. I feel like I am living a pretty active and independent life, but I am uncomfortable when some family members mention my age (79) and assume I soon won’t be able to do certain activities or live alone. To me, age is just a number – is it wrong to think that way? A....
Ask Joan: Simple ways to manage holiday blues
Q. I do love the holiday season, but since my wife passed away a few years ago, I sometimes struggle and feel a bit depressed. A friend of mine called it the “holiday blues”, but it seems wrong to feel sad when everything is supposed to be joyful. Do you have any...
Ask Joan: Find the sweet alternatives this holiday season
Q: I've been living with diabetes for many years and find I tend to struggle during the holidays. I want to celebrate with loved ones but also stay on track with managing my disease. Do you have any tips for what I can do? A: The holidays bring lots of joy and...
Ask Joan: Sharing the Joy of Thanksgiving
Q: With so much happening in the world today, it sometimes feels hard to keep a positive outlook. I am looking forward to Thanksgiving and the upcoming holidays. Do you have any advice to share about ways we can foster the joy of Thanksgiving? A: Thanksgiving is not...
Aging Unbound: Glenn Stewart
When Glenn Stewart embarked on his post-retirement journey in 2003, he had no intention of becoming just another runner. He aspired to be the very best, not only in his personal running achievements but also in making a positive impact on his community. A...
Ask Joan: Seniors benefit from the power of pets
Question: When my husband died seven years ago, I got my dog, Lily, for companionship. I’m retired now and living on a fixed income. I’m worried I won’t be able to afford to keep her, and that would just be devastating to me. Is there a program out there that might be...
Aging Unbound: Colleen Ranshaw-Fiorello
For more than 17 years, older adults in Georgetown have counted on Colleen Ranshaw-Fiorello to do the right thing, and time after time she delivered. In her role as the town’s Council on Aging director, Ranshaw-Fiorello has built relationships, built programs,...
Ask Joan: Caregivers can get extra help at home with PCA Program
Question: I find myself struggling to care for my 76-year-old aunt , who lives with m y family and has severe arthritis. I feel I’m being squeezed between the responsibilities of taking care of my children and m y aunt. She requires a great deal of care, and I’m...
Ask Joan: Volunteering is healthy for you, your community
Volunteers are part of the lifeblood of our organization. We couldn’t do what we do without them, and I feel fortunate our agency benefits from their generosity. We’re not the only ones who benefit from their hard work. The people we serve in our communities certainly...