Dec 14, 2023 | Fitness, Healthy Aging
Forget retirement homes and bingo nights! The secret to staying young, vibrant, and limber isn’t hoarding Sour Patch Kids, it’s yoga! Yes, you heard right, folks. Yoga, that ancient practice of bending into pretzel shapes and breathing like a caffeinated koala, is actually the fountain of youth disguised as a yoga mat.
Why Yoga is Your Anti-Aging BFF:
- Strength and Flexibility: Think wrinkles are the only things that get saggy with age? Not with yoga! Gentle stretches and poses keep your muscles strong and your joints limber, meaning you’ll be able to reach for that top shelf cookie without a hip-flexor meltdown.
- Balance Booster: Wobbly knees and dizzy spells? Yoga says “Namaste, not today!” Balance poses train your inner gyroscope, keeping you steady on your feet even when the world feels like it’s doing the Macarena.
- Stress Slayer: Aging can be stressful, but yoga is like a stress-eating session without the guilt. Deep breaths and mindful movements melt away tension like butter on a hot pretzel (see? Pretzels again!).
- Brainpower Booster: Forget Sudoku, yoga is the new brain game! It improves memory, focus, and even cognitive function, keeping your mind sharp even when your hairline starts to recede.
- Happy Hormones: Yoga ain’t just about fancy footwork, it’s a mood booster! The practice releases endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that make you want to skip down the street singing show tunes (even if you can’t remember the words).
But I’m Stiff as a Board!:
Don’t worry, you don’t need the flexibility of a contortionist to reap the benefits of yoga. There are plenty of gentle, beginner-friendly styles like chair yoga and restorative yoga that are perfect for aging bodies (and minds!). Remember, it’s not about looking like a pretzel, it’s about feeling good and moving with ease.
So grab your yoga mat, put on your most outrageous leggings (because why not?), and get ready to defy gravity (and wrinkles)! Here are some bonus tips for your anti-aging yoga journey:
- Find a supportive community: Join a beginner-friendly class or find a buddy to practice with. Laughter and encouragement are the best (and free) anti-aging treatments!
- Listen to your body: Don’t push yourself too hard. Yoga is a journey, not a race. Take it slow, listen to your body, and modify poses as needed.
- Make it fun! Put on your favorite music, dance between poses, and don’t take yourself too seriously. Yoga should be a celebration of your body, not a test of your flexibility.
Remember, aging is a beautiful part of life, and yoga is the perfect way to embrace it with grace, humor, and a whole lot of downward-facing dog. So roll out your mat, breathe deep, and get ready to age like a magnificent, bendy, happy pretzel!
Namaste (and don’t forget the Sour Patch Kids)!
Dec 12, 2023 | Employment, Full Time
TITLE: Outreach Social Worker, (Spanish speaking)
DEPARTMENT: City of Salem Council on Aging
POSITION STATUS: Full time, non-union position with benefits
SALARY: Up to $45,000, DOQ; position eligible for $5000.00 sign on bonus
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:
Position reports to Social Service Coordinator, with Council on Aging Director’s oversight; may supervise interns and/or seasonal
staff.
JOB SUMMARY:
This full-time position provides outreach to Salem’s older adults and persons living with disabilities. As a member of the Social
Services staff of the Council on Aging, the Outreach Social Worker will assist in all the work of the unit. Primarily, she/he will work to
develop, enhance, and maintain community relations between the City and the targeted population.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Fostering relationships with City departments, community groups and agencies, including, but not limited to: Police, Fire, other
public safety agencies, churches, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities. Overseeing and assisting in the
development of Triad programs and Food Commodity Programs. Seek and accept referrals from the Social Service Coordinator and
other community agencies. Conduct in-home visits and office appointments to assist elders in defining their needs and facilitate
access to services. Refer clients to appropriate agencies. Document identified needs and client status, and maintain up-to-date,
confidential client files. Assist with updating resource fact sheets.
Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services or related field. 3-5 years’ experience working in the field of gerontology
(preferred). Strong social/interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills. Ability to maintain effective relationships with
agencies. Successful completion of CORI background check. Must have valid Massachusetts driver’s license and own vehicle.
Demonstrable and working knowledge of aging network and its specific needs. Ability to speak Spanish required.
Dec 12, 2023 | Employment, Part Time
The Town of Hull, an active seaside community on the South Shore, with a growing older adult population is seeking a part-time Wellness Program Coordinator in their Council on Aging Department. This is a one year grant funded position. Join a strong team of professionals in a great community at a growing senior center.
Working under the direction of the Director, the primary responsibilities include planning and implementing the Lunch Café, coordinating volunteers for the Lunch Café, assisting Activities Coordinator with programs and events, assisting the Director with grant opportunities.
Plan and implement Lunch Café to promote education, socialization, and wellness for
our community’s older adults. Coordinate volunteer team for lunch café. Menu
postings.
Assist Activities Coordinator and Director with programs and activities including but not
limited to tables and chairs set-up and breakdown, and cleaning up after events and
lunch program.
Assist with identifying grant opportunities.
Training, Skills, Knowledge and or experience:
Excellent organizational, verbal, interpersonal, customer service and communication
skills.
Experience working with an elder population is strongly preferred.
Serves as a lead customer service contact for guests at the café, including answering
questions, welcoming, and collecting payment.
Working knowledge of MS Word, Excel required. Outlook, PowerPoint, Social Media
preferred.
Ability to learn department’s client database system, track client information..
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Self-initiative a plus.
Ability to respond with patience and flexibility in a dynamic, changing environment
under tight time frames, and in a shared space.
Ability to plan and prepare food/menu items, collaborate with volunteers in kitchen.
Reviews inventory and orders supplies needed.
Shopping for food and supplies.
Responsible for ensuring the kitchen is clean, neat and maintained according to Board of
Health standards.
Other duties as assigned.
Required Education, Certifications and Experience:
Bachelor’s Degree and/or 5+ years’ experience in an office setting, food service and
direct contact with the public.
Serv Safe and Allergen training certifications,
Valid and clear Massachusetts operator’s license.
Satisfactory CORI check
CPR, First Aid and AED certifications will be required within the first 90 days of hire.
Physical and Mental Requirements:
Ability to relate and work well with seniors, staff, volunteers, and the public at large. Flexibility to work under changing situations and occasional emergency conditions. Willingness to work irregular hours on occasions. Must always observe the highest level of confidentiality.
This is a twelve (12-15) hour position. Hours are typically Tuesday -Thursday 10AM-2PM.
This position is a non-benefited position. It is a one year grant funded position.
If you are interested in applying for this position, please send your resume and cover letter to
lthornton@town.hull.ma.us with the subject line: “Hull COA Wellness Program Coordinator”
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee
and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job
change.
The Town of Hull is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V and does not discriminate based on race,
creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual preference or any other
legally protected status.
Dec 8, 2023 | Employment, Full Time
The City of Woburn Council on Aging seeks qualified candidates for the position of Outreach Coordinator. The Outreach Coordinator performs responsible technical work in providing outreach services to the seniors of Woburn, as well as their families. The Outreach Coordinator will work under the supervision of the Director of the Council on Aging.
Essential Job Functions:
- Assess the needs of elders and/or their families and facilitate connections and referrals to programs and services directly related to their specific needs in an effort to support seniors in making informed decisions. This is done through confidential in-office or in-home visits.
- Offer information, referral, scheduling, and guidance on a variety of topics pertaining to senior services. These include but are not limited to WCOA programs, local ASAP (Minuteman Senior Services) services, SHINE program at the Center, community resources, housing, care giving, legal assistance, and ability to assist with benefit applications such as fuel assistance and food stamps, while also providing advocacy to assist with the procurement of services.
- Should understand Elder Protective Services. Acts as a mandated reporter and has the ability to differentiate between basic client needs and those of a more serious nature. Can identity an emergency, call 911, inform the director.
- Knowledge of best practices in maintaining respect and confidentiality for clients seeking assistance.
- Track client interactions by keeping detailed notes and updating records in MySeniorCenter database. Monthly reports to Council on Aging Board.
- Acts as a liaison between the seniors and various City officials and departments, including but not limited to, Police, Fire, Board of Health, Veterans Services, Woburn Housing Authority, Woburn Council of Social Concern and other appropriate community agencies and volunteer programs.
- Outreach to local businesses and community/civic groups to maintain relationships and form beneficial partnerships in the community to benefit seniors.
- Organize support groups and/or visiting health and/or other professional outreach programs to assist local seniors.
- Responsible for maintaining outreach efforts by designing and distributing the monthly senior newsletter, updating social media content and the department’s webpage on the City of Woburn website, as well as creating and distributing outreach materials to engage seniors who may be in need of
- Willingness to attend relevant trainings and informational seminars to further education and knowledge of senior-related issues.
- Consistently researches and stays up to date on new information and referral resources for seniors.
Daily Operations:
- Coordinate with all departments within the Senior Center, including Director, Reception, Transportation, Programs, Volunteer Services, Council on Aging Board, Building Maintenance, and Friends Helping Seniors, to maintain a collaborative workflow and accommodate senior participants to the best of our ability.
- Register participants and assist them with coordinating their programs and schedules while attending the Center, using the MySeniorCenter platform.
- Answers phone and delivers messages to personnel as needed. Pitches in to be sure all daily responsibilities are being met. For instance, help with covering when other staff members are out of the office.
- Assists with programs and events.
- Assists with keeping the Senior Center a well-maintained and safe place for all. For instance, assisting with cleanup when necessary, locking up and securing the building, informing facilities staff of any issues that need to be addressed.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field and/or two or more years experience working directly with seniors in the community or healthcare setting preferred.
- Familiarity with area programs and services available to local seniors and their families.
- Valid Massachusetts motor vehicle license.
- Excellent written and oral communications skills.
- Proficient computer skills, with the ability to learn new programs, troubleshoot technical issues as well as the ability to maintain accurate data. Experience with social media and website maintenance preferred.
- Ability to multitask and handle multiple inquiries at a time.
Position is member of SEIU. Annual salary, $50,569.61 32.5 hours per week, Monday through Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Thursdays 9:00am to 7:00pm and Fridays 9:00am to 1:00 p.m. with a one hour lunch break Monday through Thursday.
Qualified candidates submit via e-mail a cover letter and resume to Shawna Healey, Human Resources Director, shealey@cityofwoburn.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, position will be opened until filled.
The City of Woburn is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
APPLY HERE
Dec 4, 2023 | Economic Security & Outreach Blog
The Open Enrollment Period for Medicare beneficiaries to compare health insurance and prescription drug plans ends on Thursday, December 7. your Senior Center doesn’t have a SHINE counselor volunteer ready to assist clients with comparisons and enrollment, here’s where to find one:
Dec 4, 2023 | Employment, Part Time
(12-15 hours/week)
Job Description: Under the supervision of the Administrator, the Program Coordinator is responsible for coordination of bookkeeping responsibilities as well as other daily administrative assignments including technical and marketing assistance. This is an in-office position located in Amesbury, MA.
NEET provides dependable and compassionate transportation assistance to older adults, 60+, ensuring that they can access vital medical appointments with ease and peace of mind through our dedicated team of volunteers.
Qualifications:
- Must be able to demonstrate a high level of customer service and compassion for the constituents that NEET serves
- Proficiency with QuickBooks, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Workspace (Gmail, Calendar, Drive)
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Must be able to work independently
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of extremely sensitive, privileged and private data
- Ability to approach situations and challenges with a calm and rational demeanor
- Prior experience or knowledge of social media preferred
- Prior experience or knowledge of website development method preferred (e.g., Wix)
If you are interested or have questions, please contact Dori Sawyer, NEET Administrator, by email at: info@driveforneet.org.
Dec 4, 2023 | Employment, Full Time
Reporting to the Director of Senior Services, the Social Services Coordinator (Program Director) performs administrative, supervisory, counseling, referral and advocacy work involved with the planning and implementation of social service programs for elders and their families. May serve as Acting Senior Center Director during absences of the Director.
Supervision Received
Works under the broad guidance and direction of the Senior Services Director, who outlines departmental policies and procedures, supervises and reviews work and evaluates performance. This position performs regular daily duties independently and is given considerable discretion in exercising judgment, making decisions and determining appropriate courses of action.
Supervision Exercised
Supervises volunteers and provides LSW or LCSW supervision to social work student interns.
Major Duties
1. Provides seniors with information and programs designed to serve and support older adults to maintain their independence and age in place. Identifies needs of older residents and their families through office or home appointments, group meetings, professional referrals and contacts with other agencies. Maintains updated file of services and resources that support independent living and aging in place. Work with staff and volunteers to maintain a welcoming, safe environment for all senior participants in Senior Center programs.
2. Helps to evaluate eligibility for, and assists seniors with, applications and/or referrals to access state and area services that support their independent living, such as housing, transportation, health insurance, fuel assistance, public benefits, nutritional support and psychological counseling. Serves as advocate for seniors when dealing with community agencies and organizations.
3. Provides supportive and crisis counseling and case management to seniors with chronic, serious mental health problems and/or issues of homelessness. Work with local mental health providers and homeless service providers including shelters. Refers and co-manage cases with Veterans’ Affairs and the Hampshire County Veterans’ Services Organization. Identifies and oversees staff or volunteer led support groups for seniors as needed. Provides basic crisis counseling both in home and at the Senior Center. Makes “elder-at-risk” referrals to Protective Services. Works with the Town of Amherst “Elder Service Team” (Police, Fire, Health, Veteran’s Departments and CRESS team) on cases of mutual concern.
4. Proposes and develops new social service programs for older adults and their caregivers.
5. Makes “elder-at-risk”, elder abuse/neglect referrals to Highland Valley Elder Services’
6. Protective Services Department. Collaborates and Town “Elder Service Team” (Police, Fire, Health, Veteran’s Departments and CRESS Team) and maintains “seniors at risk” list. May be on-call during power outages, severe storms and other emergencies. Arranges for Emergency Funding for utility and rent arrears on a case-by-case basis.
7. Manages the Town’s Tax Work-off Program, including program guidelines, participant intake and eligibility, placement, publicity, annual fiscal reporting with the Town Assessor’s Office, annual participant recertification, and component associated with benevolent proxies.
8. Tracks and reports statistics related to all Senior Center services to individuals. Assists Director to develop and write grants and manage required reporting. Prepares sections of the annual report to the Executive Office of Elder Affairs pertaining to individual services and volunteers. Assists with collection and reporting of statistics relating to Senior Center and COA service levels.
9. Works with local media to publicize supportive services for older adults and their families.
10. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Master’s Degree in Social Work or closely related field plus five (5) years’ experience working with elders or any equivalent combination of experience, training and education demonstrating the ability to perform the duties described above.
Must be a licensed social worker (LSW or LCSW) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Possess a valid driver’s license.
Please visit https://www.amherstma.gov/jobs.aspx to view the full job description, complete an employment application and upload resume/cover letter.
The town of Amherst seeks a workforce that reflects the diversity of its community, and strives toward racial and environmental sustainability. All are encouraged to apply. AA/EEO
Dec 4, 2023 | Employment, Part Time
The City of Amesbury (estimated population 18,000), a dynamic Merrimack Valley community rich in tradition with a vibrant and expanding economic base, is seeking a strong candidate for Elder Mental Health Outreach Team Case Worker (EMHOT)
HOURS OF WORK: Up to 19 hours per week
CLASSIFICATION: Part time, non-union, non-benefit eligible.
COMPENSATION: $$25 -30.00 per hour
POSITION PURPOSE: The Elder Mental Health Outreach Team Social Worker assists the Program Manager with cases
assigned to the EMHOT program.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
▪ Provides clinical social work assessments of clients enrolled in EMHOT Program.
▪ Implements treatment by providing individual, family, and group counseling as directed by program manager
when appropriate.
▪ Plans and coordinates discharge planning.
▪ Plans, coordinates, and implements social services for elders and their families.
▪ Make decisions quickly and communicates effectively within a diverse organization, focusing on the goals and
missions of the Council on Aging.
▪ Screens clients and determines eligibility for program, when appropriate.
▪ Completes admissions packets with clients for EMHOT. Conducts assessment of clients; reviews and determines
case management plan; coordinates and implements delivery of services.
▪ Conducts in-home visits to local elders to assist with information and service delivery, provides necessary
referrals as needed.
▪ Responds to crisis; coordinates with local agencies and safety departments to modify or alleviate crises; involves
appropriate persons to respond to situation.
▪ Coordinates with Protective Services network.
▪ Assists clients in accessing and completing required applications for local, State and Federal services and
programs.
▪ Make referrals to collateral and other agencies when appropriate.
▪ Maintains client files and records in a confidential manner.
▪ Compiles and maintains all necessary program reports and records, with supervision of Program Manager.
▪ Maintain professional requirements: documentation, timeliness, public engagement.
▪ Works effectively in collaboration with social service agencies on meeting the needs of EMHOT clients
▪ All other duties as assigned by the COA Director or Assistant Director.
Peripheral Duties
▪ Attends seminars and workshops related to client and EMHOT program’s needs.
▪ Assist with technology related communication/marketing.
SUPERVISION: Assistant Director of Council on Aging
Required Skills and Qualities:
Education and Experience:
(A) Master of social work and LCSW preferred
(B) LSW with minimum four years’ experience will be considered
(C) An equivalent combination of education and experience.
(D) Valid driver’s license and vehicle as traveling required
(E) CPR Certified
Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
(A) Considerable knowledge of elder service programs and delivery systems.
(B) Knowledge of human services/mental health in the geriatric population.
(C) Ability to manage crises and sensitive issues.
(D) Ability to work and communicate with clients and staff.
(E) Some knowledge of DSM-5.
(F) Ability to work and communicate with a variety of people and always maintain confidentiality.
(G) Ability to assess and make decisions regarding the welfare and safety of clients and their families.
(H) Considerable knowledge of Computer software such as Microsoft Office.
(J) Scheduling flexibility needed on occasion.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully
perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with
disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently
required to walk, sit, stand, and communicate. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to operate objects,
tools, or controls; and reach with hands. The employee will occasionally lift and / or move 25 pounds. Specific vision
abilities required by this job include close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Employees are occasionally exposed to
exceptionally dirty and odoriferous environments.
To apply, please email a cover letter and resume to:
Michael Keleher, Human Resource Director, City of Amesbury
keleherm@amesburyma.gov
To remain posted until filled. Priority will be given to applications received by September 6, 2021
The City of Amesbury is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The City of Amesbury does not discriminate in hiring
or employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age,
genetic information, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status or membership in the armed services,
marital status or any other protected category under federal or state law
Dec 4, 2023 | Employment, Full Time
The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for a Senior Services Assistant (Staff Assistant II) for the Elder Affairs Division in the Health and Human Services Department. Under the direction of the Manager of Senior Services and Education, the position will provide support to assist seniors to access services and facilitate senior participation at the Worcester Senior Center. The position will be responsible for program engagement, advocate for seniors at the Worcester Senior Center and coordinate Elder Group meetings.
Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:
- Provide information, referral, and follow-up after identifying and assessing senior needs, and determining resources available to meet those needs
- Assessment and interaction with seniors must be culturally sensitive
- Serve as liaison for seniors and other organizations to assure clear communication to overcome potential language and cultural barriers.
- Facilitate an environment which is welcoming to all and sensitive to cultural differences within the group as well as with the majority senior center population
- Outreach and engage seniors in activities which build their comfort level with the Senior Center, increasing their receptiveness to health, education, and social programming
- Assist members with reservations for transportation, meals, and other programmatic needs
- Advocate and intervene on behalf of seniors to help ensure they have access to necessary services, resources, or facilities
- Assist the families of seniors in the community and/or participants at the senior center to access needed elder services
- Present information about the Worcester Senior Center and various assistance available to seniors in community settings and at resource fairs
- Work with Elder Affairs staff to address diversity issues with the goal of maintaining a welcoming environment for all at the Worcester Senior Center
- Provide supervision to Volunteers and Interns
- Provide customer service and outreach via front desk reception and monitoring transportation
- Act as a mandated reporter of elder abuse, filing verbal and written reports as required, and keeping the Director of Elder Affairs informed.
- Maintain case records and data on all clients assisted and ensure careful follow-up of all referrals
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Knowledge and ability to provide human services, completing applications for benefits, housing, and related needs, maintaining confidentiality, operating within regulations, and keeping records
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Experience in serving diverse populations
- Interest and sensitivity toward working with seniors
- Experience with group facilitation
- Knowledge base of diversity and inclusion
- Demonstrated dependability, teamwork, active listening, and organizational skills
- Computer proficiency including Microsoft Office Suite
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor Degree in social work or related field OR;
o An equivalent combination of education & experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the required duties of the position will be considered in lieu of the above-mentioned requirements.
- Computer proficiency including Microsoft Office Suite
- Experience with cultural sensitivity for the elder population
- Experience communicating and working with populations diverse in language, socio-economic status, race/ethnicity and/or cultural backgrounds
- Excellent communication skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Two (2) years of related work experience in Human Services
- Experience interacting with diverse seniors in a service setting
STARTING SALARY: $27.54 hourly, full-time, with an excellent benefits package
To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter on or before FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023, to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. Preference given to Worcester Residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall Human Resources, 508-799-1030, HR@Worcesterma.gov.
Nov 28, 2023 | News
We are so proud of each and every one of you for taking up the challenge and getting moving this year. We know it takes dedication and determination to make physical activity a regular part of your life, and we applaud your commitment to your health and well-being.
In addition to the personal benefits of increased physical activity, the WMC also fosters a sense of community and healthy competition. We are grateful for the camaraderie and support that emerged among our participants, and we are excited to see what you will accomplish in the future.
Thank you for making the 2023 WMC a resounding success!
Stay tuned for more exciting challenges and opportunities to get involved.
| Councils on Aging Teams |
City/Town |
|
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| 3rd |
Westport |
| 3rd |
Northfield |
| 3rd |
Acton |
| 3rd |
Harwich |
| 3rd |
Marlborough |
| 3rd |
Colrain |
| 3rd |
Carlisle |
| 3rd |
Norwell |
| 3rd |
Beverly |
| 3rd |
Auburn |
|
|
| 2nd |
Lexington |
| 2nd |
Sturbridge |
| 2nd |
Rehoboth |
| 2nd |
Pepperell |
| 2nd |
Bedford |
|
|
| GRAND PRIZE |
Dighton |
| PRIZE LEVEL |
TEAM |
WINNER |
| 1st Prize |
Rehoboth |
Manny |
| 1st Prize |
Bridgewater |
Thomas |
| 1st Prize |
Bedford |
Karen |
| 1st Prize |
Chicopee |
Dennis |
| 1st Prize |
Charlton |
Michael |
| 1st Prize |
Lexington |
Rajesh |
| 1st Prize |
Boston |
Rupal |
| 1st Prize |
Pepperell |
Ellen |
| 1st Prize |
Yarmouth |
Florence |
| 1st Prize |
Rowley |
Kathleen |
| 2nd Prize |
Norwell |
Silvia |
| 2nd Prize |
Foxborough |
Richard |
| 2nd Prize |
Lexington |
Subhalakshmi |
| 2nd Prize |
Lexington |
Donghee |
| 2nd Prize |
Marlborough |
Karen |
| 2nd Prize |
Lexington |
June |
| 2nd Prize |
Easthampton |
Michele |
| 2nd Prize |
Millbury |
thomas |
| 2nd Prize |
Dighton |
Jo Ann |
| 2nd Prize |
Acton |
Florence |
| 2nd Prize |
Springfield |
Yasmin |
| 2nd Prize |
Leicester |
Elaine |
| 2nd Prize |
Spencer |
Jeanne |
| 2nd Prize |
Northfield |
Cynthia |
| 2nd Prize |
Dighton |
natalie |
| 2nd Prize |
Lexington |
Kellsey |
| 2nd Prize |
Beverly |
linda |
| 2nd Prize |
Lexington |
Rajesh |
| 2nd Prize |
North Attleboro |
Pat |
| 2nd Prize |
Lexington |
Stephanie |
| 2nd Prize |
Rehoboth |
Robert |
| 2nd Prize |
Holden |
Kathy |
| 2nd Prize |
Lexington |
Suresh |
| 2nd Prize |
Lexington |
Luci |
| 2nd Prize |
Burlington |
Debbie |
| 3rd Prize |
Harwich |
Monica |
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
Nora |
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
Vasanti |
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
Laureen |
| 3rd Prize |
Rehoboth |
Addy |
| 3rd Prize |
South Hadley |
Cynthia |
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
Roy |
| 3rd Prize |
Canton |
Elizabeth |
| 3rd Prize |
North Reading |
Sue |
| 3rd Prize |
Southborough |
Gene |
| 3rd Prize |
Chicopee |
Carol |
| 3rd Prize |
Dighton |
Rae |
| 3rd Prize |
North Attleboro |
Ernestine |
| 3rd Prize |
East Longmeadow |
Deborah |
| 3rd Prize |
Dighton |
|
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
Melinda |
| 3rd Prize |
Auburn |
Valerie |
| 3rd Prize |
Auburn |
Kathy |
| 3rd Prize |
Auburn |
S |
| 3rd Prize |
Chicopee |
Christine |
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
Kin-Ming |
| 3rd Prize |
North Attleboro |
Deborah |
| 3rd Prize |
Auburn |
Teresa |
| 3rd Prize |
Melrose |
Maureen |
| 3rd Prize |
North Brookfield |
Louise |
| 3rd Prize |
Hopkinton |
Maureen |
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
Nora |
| 3rd Prize |
Auburn |
Jean |
| 3rd Prize |
Andover |
Kathleen |
| 3rd Prize |
Sudbury |
Maike |
| 3rd Prize |
Charlton |
Joyce |
| 3rd Prize |
Mansfield |
Michele |
| 3rd Prize |
North Attleboro |
Teresa |
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
Melissa |
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
Linda |
| 3rd Prize |
Chicopee |
Marcia |
| 3rd Prize |
Templeton |
Robert |
| 3rd Prize |
Hopkinton |
Jeannette |
| 3rd Prize |
Lenox |
Amanda |
| 3rd Prize |
Rowley |
Valerie |
| 3rd Prize |
Rehoboth |
Linda |
| 3rd Prize |
Dighton |
Britt |
| 3rd Prize |
Hatfield |
Duane |
| 3rd Prize |
West Bridgewater |
Peter |
| 3rd Prize |
Hatfield |
Marie |
| 3rd Prize |
Plainville |
Carol |
| 3rd Prize |
Lexington |
James |
| 3rd Prize |
East Longmeadow |
Kathy |
| 3rd Prize |
Northfield |
Linda |
| 3rd Prize |
Rehoboth |
Linda |
Nov 13, 2023 | News
The Lexington Study Committee on Tax Exemptions and Deferrals has created their annual Circuit Breaker Tax Credit flyer that provides eligibility criteria and instructions on how to apply for the 2023 tax year and previous years—this can mean thousands of dollars of tax relief for age- and income-eligible MA residents (homeowners and renters). This flyer is a useful resource to share with clients in advance of tax prep season!
DOWNLOAD 23-10-31 Circuit Breaker
Nov 13, 2023 | News
Have you joined our network within the past couple of years?
Are you looking for training to reach your full potential?
Join us on December 12 at 10:00 AM as Jacquie Collins of Partnering for Performance reveals a new training series, starting in January, that will empower you!
We understand the day-to-day challenges you all face in running a quality COA. Managing personnel, program participants, your boards and friends groups, as well as municipal politics, are some of the hardest parts of your job. Strong leaders are essential for growth, influencing change, and promoting a positive culture. To that effect, MCOA is providing you the opportunity to have the necessary tools, knowledge, and skills to continue to be successful. We have asked Jacquie Collins of Partnering for Performance to run a leadership series focusing on three areas of Leadership Development: Leading Yourself, Leading Others, and Leading the Organization. This is a highly interactive series and will include multiple exercises and small group discussions. Topical areas include: Emotional Intelligence, Mindset, Executive Function in terms of Planning, Execution and Problem Solving; Critical Thinking Skills; Communication and Decision Making; Collaboration and Team Building. MCOA is investing in you, our COA Directors!
“Become the kind of leader that people would follow voluntarily, even if you had no title or position.” —Brian Tracy
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
Nov 7, 2023 | Briefs, News
Continuing Resolution With the partial government shutdown looming again, please note SNAP funding will not be impacted and benefits through December will be distributed. Also, the current continuing resolution provides FY23 funding levels of the Older Americans Act. LIHEAP and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) are authorized to spend additional resources. The CSFP is also known as a ‘food box for elders’. Contact your local food bank to find your nearest CSFP distribution site.
Food Insecurity Consider having to answer yes to any of the following: worried your food would run out, the food you bought didn’t last, could not afford a balanced meal, cut the size of or skipped a meal, ate less than felt you should, were hungry but did not eat, lost weight, didn’t eat for a whole day one time or for more than three months. These questions help determine food insecurity. The updated report: Household Food Security in the United States in 2022 was released with key stats:
- 12.8 percent (17.0 million households) were food insecure (had difficulty at some time during the year providing enough food for all their members because of a lack of resources)
- 5.1 percent (6.8 million households) had very low food security (food intake of some household members was reduced, and normal eating patterns were disrupted at times during the year because of limited resources)
- About 22.9 percent of all food-insecure households included adults aged 65 and older. Of those experiencing very low food insecurity, 3.4 percent of households included adults 65+
While the averages in Massachusetts are lower than the national average, our numbers are too high. As expected, food insecurity was more common in rural areas than urban areas, and Black and Latino households were disproportionately affected.
Indigenous Elders
- A webinar on the healing potential of food as medicine and its impact on the health of Indigenous elder – November 9, 1-2pm. Speakers will discuss promoting healthier food choices and lifestyles among older adults in Indigenous communities, supporting holistic health for our elders. Check here for more info/to register
- Defeat Malnutrition Today and the National Hispanic Council on Aging have come together to propose important recommendations for the upcoming 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA). The Dietary Guidelines for Americans plays a pivotal role in shaping nutrition programs for older adults. DMT and NHCOA’s recommendations include differentiating 60+ and 75 or 85 and above as two age groups, incorporating chronic disease, addressing food access and affordability, accommodating diverse ethnic and cultural dietary preferences, and educating older adults on the guidelines. By considering these insights, the DGA can better serve the unique nutritional needs of older adults, promoting their overall well-being and quality of life through healthier food.
Nutrition Hub USDA recently introduced a pilot
Nutrition Hub under the Agricultural Science Center of Excellence for Nutrition and Diet for Better Health (ASCEND for Better Health) initiative. The Nutrition Hub is in partnership with Southern University, a historically black 1890 Land-grant University in Louisiana. The Nutrition Hub aims to offer science-based, nutrition-related information at the community level, focusing on underserved communities affected by diet-related chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. This initiative aligns with the commitments made during the
White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and food security in overall health, including disease prevention and management.
Let’s Get Physical
- The Walk Massachusetts Challenge ended October 31. If you had any difficulty entering your data, email it directly to tara@mcoaonline.com by November 10 at 5p.
- MA DPH has an online survey for people with disabilities across Massachusetts to understand their needs. They are looking for more responses from older adults. The survey is available in 12 languages.
Public Health Survey Please help the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Office of Local & Regional Health (OLRH) evaluate and improve our performance by participating in a new survey, developed for local public health professionals and partners. This survey assesses the understanding of and satisfaction with the services provided by OLRH.
Nov 3, 2023 | News
EOEA is excited to offer again the Certificate Initiative in partnership with BU CADER for Council on Aging staff and volunteers. For FY24, COAs staff and volunteers can register without a cap on slot assignments. Learners have until June 30, 2024 to complete their certificates. Please note that learners can only register for one certificate at a time. Once they complete one certificate they can enroll for the other one.
Registration is open.
For FY24, COAs will be able to register COA staff and volunteers without a cap on slot assignments. We have increased the available number of slots from last year. We will again monitor enrollment and initiate a wait list for new enrollees if needed.
Please have the COA director go to the Certificate Initiative COA Registration form to register staff. We appreciate the leadership COAs play in ensuring the Certificate Initiative is a success.
The courses available are:
The EOEA Certificate in Case Management includes 6 courses (worth 24 CEs):
· Core Issues in Aging and Disability,
· Assessment with Older Adults and Persons with Disabilities,
· A Guide to the Aging and Disability Networks
· Case Management Practice
· Care Transitions
· Adding Person Centered course — Understanding Consumer Control, Person-Centered Planning, and Self-Direction
Behavioral Health in Aging Certificate includes 5 courses (worth 19 CEs):
· Suicide prevention among Older Adults
· Substance Use among Older Adults,
· Mental Health and Aging
· Mental Wellness and Resilience among Older Immigrants and Refugees
· Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
If you have any questions about the Certificate Initiative please direct them to Allison Staton at Allison.M.Staton@mass.gov(please note the middle initial in her email)
Thank you for promoting this learning opportunity with your staff, interns and volunteers and supporting them as they build their skills and knowledge to support the older adults in your community and in the Commonwealth.
