Media Release
AgeSpan is thrilled to announce our Culturally Competent, Medically Tailored Meal Program received a 2023 Aging Achievement Award from USAging, one of the highest honors presented by USAging to its members.
The program offers a heart-healthy Latino meal for people in the greater Lawrence area. It was among local aging programs to receive honors during USAging’s 48th Annual Conference and Tradeshow.
These awards, supported by Caregiving.com and Cumulus, recognizes USAging’s Area Agency on Aging and Title VI Native American Aging Program members that have found new and innovative ways to support older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers as they live in their homes and communities.
“The award showcases what AgeSpan is all about,” says Joan Hatem-Roy, CEO of AgeSpan. “The Culturally Competent Medically Tailored Meal Program addresses issues of health equity while improving nutrition and health outcomes. This is one of the ways our employees consistently find ways to address the needs of those we serve through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to providing high-quality services.”
Prior to its launch in October 2021, the cardiac friendly, medically tailored meals provided by most area agencies on aging were not specifically tailored to the preferred diets of Latino populations. Instead, these individuals did not have access to a cardiac friendly Latino meal. To address these needs, AgeSpan’s nutrition staff worked with City Fresh Foods, who cook and deliver the meals.
AgeSpan and the rest of thel winners are highlighted in the USAging Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards Showcase.
About AgeSpan AgeSpan, formerly known as Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley and North Shore, is a private, nonprofit agency dedicated to helping people in northeast Massachusetts maintain the highest level of independence, health, and safety as they age. AgeSpan is a Massachusetts Aging Services Access Point and an Area Agency on Aging. For more, information about AgeSpan and its services, visit www.AgeSpan.org or call 800-892-0890.
About USAging USAging is the national association representing and supporting the network of Area Agencies on Aging and advocating for the Title VI Native American Aging Programs. Our members help older adults and people with disabilities throughout the United States live with optimal health, well-being, independence and dignity in their homes and communities. For more information about USAging, AAAs or Title VI programs, visit www.usaging.org.
