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 talk about End of Life and Advance Care Planning
Because it’s always too soon until it’s too late. Whether it is denial, avoidance or procrastination some of us just plain don't want to deal with an issue that is as intensely emotional as considering completing End of Life wishes documents. Unfortunately as the...
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month!
I thought I would first start with sharing a personal story with you. This is Jim’s story and he shares his experience following his brain injury and how the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts (BIA-MA) has helped support him through his journey and provided...
This Magic Moment Memory Cafe – Enjoying the Holidays Together
The Family Caregiver Support Program at Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley has collaborated with the Newburyport Council on Aging (COA) to present “This Magic Moment Memory Café, Enjoying the Holidays Together”. We would like to invite you and your loved one to...
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...
PlumFest
Plum Island has attracted artsy crowds for decades; poets, musicians, painters and writers, all looking to be inspired by the island’s beauty and tranquility. So, when two musically motivated residents were looking to bring a sense of unity and fellowship to this...
From A Distance
Caregiving can be stressful when you live close by or with a loved one but trying to care from a distance can not only make it more stressful in some ways but also more complicated and confusing. Whether you live 30 minutes away, in another state, across the country...
Grandparent Resources
Is There Help for Grandparents Raising their Grandchildren in Massachusetts? More often, grandparents are finding themselves in a position of taking on responsibility for their grandchildren. There are many different situations that leave parents unable to provide...
Support Groups
I recently heard about a caregiver support group that meets at my local hospital. What can I expect if I choose to attend and what are some of the benefits? It can feel intimidating if you’ve never attended a support group before but here are some things you should...