Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer There are lots of options when it comes to choosing a place to work. We understand people want to make a difference—working with an organization that gives them flexibility, a great environment, and meaningful benefits. The...
Do I still need to get mammogram in my 70s?
Joan Hatem-Roy, CEO Question: I have my annual physical check-up scheduled next month. Every year, my doctor sends me for a mammogram, although these have never revealed any abnormalities. I am in my mid-70s and find the procedure somewhat uncomfortable. At my...
New program provides free tablet computers and internet access to local residents
We took time today to celebrate and thank our awesome staff during our annual Years of Service ceremony. It’s a time to recognize everyone’s hard work and acknowledge the milestone anniversaries of more than 50...
Providing Home Delivered Meals During Coronavirus
If ever there was a time to highlight the Meals on Wheels program, it would be now. It was only a couple of months ago that some of our community politicians had signed up to participate in ‘March For Meals’…a campaign in the month of March to highlight the importance...
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...
“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 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...