Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. The recent news about the fire at the Fall River Assisted Living Community has me so upset. I can’t imagine how the families of those who lost their lives must be feeling. I hope there will be changes so nothing like this...
Ask Joan: Sometimes the Hardest Thing to Do Is Ask for Help
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. My parents are in their 70s and living on their own. They both have some health issues, so I help them with appointments, errands, and tasks around the house. I love spending time with them, but I also have my own busy...
Ask Joan: When the Doctor Suggests Strength Training
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. At my most recent checkup, my doctor suggested I start doing strength training. I am in my late 60s and consider myself pretty active. I go for walks, either by myself or with friends, several times a week. Do I really need...
Ask Joan: Choosing a New Primary Care Doctor
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. I have been seeing the same primary care doctor for the last 18 years. I really feel like he understands me and knows my health history. I recently learned that he will be retiring soon. How do I go about choosing a new...
Ask Joan: Alcohol can interact with medications
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. My mother still likes to have a glass of wine or two most days, which seems okay, but I’m wondering what the risks are given her age. A. Many people enjoy a glass of wine every now and then. Alcohol can affect each of us...
Ask Joan: Important to stay hydrated during the winter
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. I’m worried that my parents aren’t staying hydrated enough, especially in the winter months when it’s so dry and they have the heat up. Do you have any tips I can give to them? Staying hydrated during the winter months can be...
Ask Joan: Bathroom safety
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. As my mother’s mobility gets more limited, I’m concerned about her bathing and the risk of getting hurt. What can I do to improve the safety of her bathroom? As we age, our balance, strength, and flexibility can diminish,...
Ask Joan: Carbon monoxide detectors can be lifesavers
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. I was devastated to read about the Massachusetts family that died from carbon monoxide poisoning. It made me think about the safety of my parents’ place. What can I do to help them prevent household dangers like this? That...
Ask Joan: AgeSpan’s Financial Resources Program
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q. I’m noticing my parents are struggling to keep up with their mail and pay their bills on time. Are there resources available to help them stay on track? With January being National Financial Wellness Month, it’s the perfect...
Ask Joan: Best ways to wage war on cold, flu season
Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer Q: It seems like colds and flu are making a comeback just as the holidays approach. How can I protect my parents during this time? The holiday season, a time for family and celebration, but also the season for colds and flu. As...