Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. I read that Accessory Dwelling Units are now permitted by-right statewide in Massachusetts. How can older adults take advantage of this new law? A. Massachusetts’ new law permitting Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) by-right...
Ask Joan: Patient Safety Awareness Week offers plenty of tips
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. I can’t make it to all my parents’ medical appointments, and I’m often worried about keeping up with all the information they are being given. What can I do to ensure their safety? As we observe Patient Safety Awareness Week...
Ask Joan: Unsung heroes: Social Workers make Society Better
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer March is an important time to recognize the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to support individuals and communities in need. It’s Social Work Month, a time to honor the impactful work of social workers and raise...
Ask Joan: Caregivers deserve so much gratitude
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. There are so many people I know who are caregivers for their family or work as professionals in the industry. What can I do to show my appreciation and support for those who provide such compassionate care? This past week was...
Ask Joan: Taking care of our mental health
Q. Lately, I have been feeling more and more overwhelmed and anxious, and I’m concerned something more serious might be happening. I am 79 and caring for my husband, who has been seriously ill for several months. I don’t mind caring for him, but some days are pretty...
Ask Joan: Tips for easing, aiding the grief process
Q: I was my wife’s primary caregiver for three years during her illness. While it could be difficult some days, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else for her. She passed away recently, and I am struggling with how I feel and am unsure some days what to do with...
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...
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...
Working Women and Caregiving
Women, particularly those over 40, increasingly find themselves in the role of caregiver to an aging parent, often while raising their own children AND working outside the home. Many find themselves without much of a support system as they work to balance daily...
Who cares for caregivers when they get sick?
Caregivers are not immune to common illness, e.g., a cold, flu, stomach virus. In fact, the stresses of caregiving often increase their risk of getting sick and may compromise their recovery. Physicians and other healthcare providers should recognize that their...