Jul 5, 2024 | Housing, Mental Health, News, Resource finding
Some may remember that in March of this year the US Senate’s Special Committee on Aging distributed an RFI, seeking written testimony from people with lived experience and other stakeholders on the effects of hoarding. Committee members have finished their report, and responses from Massachusetts were strong. You can read or download the report here:
The Consequences of Clutter: How Hoarding Disorder Affects America’s Older Adults, First Responders, and their Communities
The report is long; one way to dip in is to start with the statements from people in Massachusetts—all of the pieces of the report are conveniently hyperlinked in the table of contents, and you can search for any word using ctrl/F on your keyboard. You will probably recognize some names of well-known hoarding disorder advocates and experts from MA. The statement written by members of the MA Hoarding Resource Network Steering Committee can be found on page B-106.
There are several statements from task forces around the country, and federal support for hoarding task forces is the top recommendation in the report:
SAMHSA and ACL should provide training, guidance, and technical assistance
regarding HD. Although HD is relevant to the mission of the Substance Abuse
and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Administration for
Community Living (ACL), neither agency identified programs specific to the con-
dition. SAMHSA and ACL should develop training, technical assistance, and other
guidance for social service providers, health care providers, and first responders
on how to respond to HD. Technical assistance should include tips and training for
professionals likely to encounter people with HD. Technical assistance should also
include guidance for communities on establishing a coordinated, evidence-based
response to HD – including best practices for forming and sustaining hoarding task
forces (page 43)
The statements from people living with hoarding disorder are particularly powerful and support the idea that with consistent, skilled assistance, people living with this disorder can make meaningful change in their lives.
May 30, 2024 | Education & Training, Events, News
Based on valuable feedback from our network, the MCOA is seeking proposals for facilitated round table discussions at the upcoming Fall Conference!
What are Facilitated Round Table Discussions?
These small-group sessions will provide a platform for in-depth conversations on specific issues. As the facilitator, you’ll guide the discussion, ensuring a productive and engaging experience for all participants. Network and connect with colleagues from across the state.
Examples of Possible Discussion Topics:
- Innovative Programs for Senior Wellness: Share successful initiatives that promote physical, mental, and emotional health among seniors. Discuss how to implement these programs in various communities.
- Technology and Aging: Explore the latest technological advancements that can aid the elderly in maintaining independence and staying connected. Discuss best practices for introducing and teaching new technology to seniors.
- Intergenerational Engagement: Discuss strategies to foster meaningful interactions between different age groups, and how these interactions can benefit both seniors and younger generations.
- Challenges in Caregiver Support: Address the unique challenges faced by caregivers of the elderly. Share resources, support networks, and strategies for providing effective assistance.
- Advocacy and Policy Updates: Stay informed about recent policy changes affecting the aging population. Discuss how to advocate for seniors’ rights and needs at the local and state levels.
Why Participate?
- Professional Development: Enhance your facilitation skills and gain insights from your peers.
- Networking: Build connections with professionals across the aging network.
- Collaborative Learning: Contribute to and benefit from the collective knowledge and experiences of your colleagues.
We look forward to hearing your ideas and making the MCOA Fall Conference a truly collaborative event!
May 21, 2024 | Events, Member Services, News
MCOA Membership Meeting | Via Zoom June 6, 2024 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Agenda
10:00 Welcome
- Emily Shea, MCOA Board Chair
10:05 Remote Access to Vote
- Tatum Pritchard, Director of Litigation, Disability Law Center, Inc.
10:20 My Healthy Brain: Lifestyle Habits that Promote Brain Health with Aging
- Ryan Mace, PhD, Assistant Professor of Psychology
Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research (CHOIR)
Massachusetts General Hospital
Harvard Medical School
- Nicole McGurin, Programs & Services Director
Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter
11:20 Business Meeting
- Betsy – Legislative Updates
12:00 * Please note the Advisory Council will meet from 12:00 – 12:30 pm
May 2, 2024 | News
| Job Location |
| Franklin, Massachusetts |
| Job Title |
| Senior Center Director |
| Job Description |
The Town of Franklin is accepting applications for the position of Senior Center Director. The
Director reports directly to the Town Administrator and works in close cooperation with the
nine members of the Council on Aging, an advisory Council whose mission is to enhance the
independence and quality of life for older adults in Franklin. The Senior Center receives
exceptional support from the Franklin Community, including the Friends of Franklin Elders,
Inc. (FOFE); a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide funds for programs, services, and equipment for the Franklin Senior Center that cannot be provided by state or local government.The mission of the Franklin Senior Center is to enhance the independence and quality of life for Franklin’s aging population. The Director ensures that the Senior Center reaches this goal by:• Identifying the needs of this population and creating programs that meet those needs.
• Offering the knowledge, tools and opportunities to promote mental, social, and physical
well-being.
• Advocating for relevant programs and services in our community.
• Serving as a community focal point for aging issues and as a liaison to local, state, and
federal resources for older adults.
The Director hires and oversees a staff of 12 employees, both part-time and full-time, as well as substitute employees and volunteers. The Center is for residents 55+ in our community, and offers a variety of programming and services including but not limited to exercise classes, educational lectures, social events, health and wellness opportunities and social services.The Franklin Senior Center is home to a supportive day program (“Sunshine Club”), a
Caregivers Support Group, and the Memory Café. The Senior Center also has Common Grounds Café for residents to enjoy breakfast and/or lunch, a Social Service Coordinator who provides residents assistance in obtaining the services they need, and a part-time Registered Nurse providing health and wellness opportunities.
The Director oversees the Senior Center budget, which is funded through the Town along with state and local grant funding and funding from the Friends of Franklin Elders, Inc.
The Director also performs the following duties:
• Develops and administers the department’s operating and grant budgets; seeks funding
from non-profit, state, and private foundations for operations and services.
• Prepares and submits required fiscal reports to local and state agencies
• Plans, develops and evaluates programs in the areas of health care, nutrition, counseling,
social services, recreation, respite, et al, for older adults.
• Publicizes and promotes services and programs through the media, including social media
posts, media releases, public speaking, and panel presentations; works with staff to create
the “Franklin Connection” monthly newsletter.
• Responsible for the recruitment, training and supervision of staff; updates job descriptions
and oversees work schedules.
• Oversees the administration of the Senior Citizen Property Tax Work Off Program in
accordance with town and state regulations.
• Oversees facility issues by coordinating with various municipal departments.
• Performs Commonwealth of MA-CORI checks and serves as a Reporter of Elder Abuse in
accordance with the MA Protective Service Law.
• Attends training and workshops to maintain knowledge and awareness of state and federal
laws as well as practices pertaining to the provision of services to older adults.
• Reinforces confidentiality regulations with staff and volunteers.
• Serve as an advocate in the community, regarding issues and concerns of older adults.
• Serves on the Franklin Crisis Intervention Team and works closely with Veterans’ Services,
the Health Department, Facilities, and several local social service organizations, including
but not limited to the Franklin Food Pantry, the Hockomock YMCA, the Inter-faith Council,
Tri-Valley, Inc., and the Greater Milford Community Health Network (CHANA 6).
• Performs other similar or related duties, as required or as situation dictates.
Required Qualifications:
• Pleasant, honest, detail oriented, and friendly with excellent customer service skills.
• College degree in public administration, community organization, social work, gerontology,
human relations or a related field. Minimum of five years related work experience; or an
equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous experience working with older adults and/or disabled populations.
• Experience preparing and managing budgets and finances.
• Computer literacy skills and a working knowledge of Microsoft and Google products.
• Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and practices, and confidentiality laws.
• Must be appointed and certified as CORI designee within 6 months of hire.
• Obtain certification from the MA Association of Councils on Aging within 3 years of hire.
• Able to represent the COA effectively and to advocate for elders in a variety of situations
requiring knowledge, negotiation skills, diplomacy and tact. |
| Agency | Organization Name |
| Franklin Senior Center |
| Organization Classification |
| Council on Aging |
| Job Type: |
| Full-time |
| Days & Hours |
| Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
| Position Benefits |
Health Insurance
Paid Time Off |
| Position Description |
The Town of Franklin is accepting applications for the position of Senior Center Director. The
Director reports directly to the Town Administrator and works in close cooperation with the
nine members of the Council on Aging, an advisory Council whose mission is to enhance the
independence and quality of life for older adults in Franklin. The Senior Center receives
exceptional support from the Franklin Community, including the Friends of Franklin Elders,
Inc. (FOFE); a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide funds for programs, services, and equipment for the Franklin Senior Center that cannot be provided by state or local government.
The mission of the Franklin Senior Center is to enhance the independence and quality of life for Franklin’s aging population. The Director ensures that the Senior Center reaches this goal by:• Identifying the needs of this population and creating programs that meet those needs.
• Offering the knowledge, tools and opportunities to promote mental, social, and physical
well-being.
• Advocating for relevant programs and services in our community.
• Serving as a community focal point for aging issues and as a liaison to local, state, and
federal resources for older adults.
The Director hires and oversees a staff of 12 employees, both part-time and full-time, as well as substitute employees and volunteers. The Center is for residents 55+ in our community, and offers a variety of programming and services including but not limited to exercise classes, educational lectures, social events, health and wellness opportunities and social services.The Franklin Senior Center is home to a supportive day program (“Sunshine Club”), a
Caregivers Support Group, and the Memory Café. The Senior Center also has Common Grounds Café for residents to enjoy breakfast and/or lunch, a Social Service Coordinator who provides residents assistance in obtaining the services they need, and a part-time Registered Nurse providing health and wellness opportunities.
The Director oversees the Senior Center budget, which is funded through the Town along with state and local grant funding and funding from the Friends of Franklin Elders, Inc. |
| Duties & Responsibilities |
• Develops and administers the department’s operating and grant budgets; seeks funding
from non-profit, state, and private foundations for operations and services.
• Prepares and submits required fiscal reports to local and state agencies
• Plans, develops and evaluates programs in the areas of health care, nutrition, counseling,
social services, recreation, respite, et al, for older adults.
• Publicizes and promotes services and programs through the media, including social media
posts, media releases, public speaking, and panel presentations; works with staff to create
the “Franklin Connection” monthly newsletter.
• Responsible for the recruitment, training and supervision of staff; updates job descriptions
and oversees work schedules.
• Oversees the administration of the Senior Citizen Property Tax Work Off Program in
accordance with town and state regulations.
• Oversees facility issues by coordinating with various municipal departments.
• Performs Commonwealth of MA-CORI checks and serves as a Reporter of Elder Abuse in
accordance with the MA Protective Service Law.
• Attends training and workshops to maintain knowledge and awareness of state and federal
laws as well as practices pertaining to the provision of services to older adults.
• Reinforces confidentiality regulations with staff and volunteers.
• Serve as an advocate in the community, regarding issues and concerns of older adults.
• Serves on the Franklin Crisis Intervention Team and works closely with Veterans’ Services,
the Health Department, Facilities, and several local social service organizations, including
but not limited to the Franklin Food Pantry, the Hockomock YMCA, the Inter-faith Council,
Tri-Valley, Inc., and the Greater Milford Community Health Network (CHANA 6).
• Performs other similar or related duties, as required or as situation dictates. |
| Education Requirements |
| College degree in public administration, community organization, social work, gerontology, human relations or a related field. Minimum of five years related work experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. |
| Experience Requirements |
| Pleasant, honest, detail oriented, and friendly with excePrevious experience working with older adults and/or disabled populations. Experience preparing and managing budgets and finances. • Computer literacy skills and a working knowledge of Microsoft and Google products. • Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and practices, and confidentiality laws. • Must be appointed and certified as CORI designee within 6 months of hire. • Obtain certification from the MA Association of Councils on Aging within 3 years of hire. • Able to represent the COA effectively and to advocate for elders in a variety of situations requiring knowledge, negotiation skills, diplomacy and tact. |
| Qualifications |
Required Qualifications:
• Pleasant, honest, detail oriented, and friendly with excellent customer service skills.
• College degree in public administration, community organization, social work, gerontology,
human relations or a related field. Minimum of five years related work experience; or an
equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous experience working with older adults and/or disabled populations.
• Experience preparing and managing budgets and finances.
• Computer literacy skills and a working knowledge of Microsoft and Google products.
• Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and practices, and confidentiality laws.
• Must be appointed and certified as CORI designee within 6 months of hire.
• Obtain certification from the MA Association of Councils on Aging within 3 years of hire.
• Able to represent the COA effectively and to advocate for elders in a variety of situations
requiring knowledge, negotiation skills, diplomacy and tact. |
| Salary Range or Hourly Rate |
| $85,000 – $100,000 annually |
| Application Deadline |
| 05/24/2024 |
| Application Website / URL |
| https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/senior-center-director-job-posting-04-25-24.pdf |
| DOWNLOAD Job Description |
 Senior-Center-Director-Job-Posting-04-25-24.pdf |
Apr 26, 2024 | Education & Training, News
With April showers (hopefully) giving way to May flowers, I’m reflecting on my first six fulfilling months at MCOA. The transition has been incredibly smooth thanks to the warm welcome I’ve received from the MCOA team and the broader network. I’m excited to see what the rest of the year brings, and I’m feeling grateful for the support and camaraderie I’ve found here.
My first month was a whirlwind of learning about the unique aspects of senior centers and the municipalities they serve. From countless Zoom meetings with each of my colleagues to SIG RFP proposals to transitioning from being a Google nerd to a Microsoft newbie…it has all been amazing!
While I had previously spoken at many senior centers in my role as an AARP presenter, I have had the pleasure of visiting 11 COAs since starting my role as Training and Education Manager for MCOA. This has included a few in-person trainings, celebrations, staff meetings, and just stopping in for a tour and a chat! I hope to get out to many more in the future!
Since joining MCOA in November, we’ve hit the ground running, offering training on leadership, strategic planning, hoarding disorder, grant writing, and even navigating end-of-life conversations. The overwhelming response to our training survey fuels my excitement for the future – I can’t wait to see what new topics we can bring to the network!
To keep this (first ever) blog post short, I extend my deepest gratitude towards all of YOU! I look forward to meeting so many of you at the upcoming Spring Symposium (go register now if you haven’t already) or at future trainings.
“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” – B.B. King
Apr 12, 2024 | News
Do you remember receiving two surveys last spring focused on inclusion at COAs?
The research team from UMass Boston Gerontology is back to follow-up with the network. They will share data highlights and preliminary recommendations to support the COA network in their ongoing efforts to cultivate welcoming environments. YOUR feedback is invaluable and will inform the final report delivered to EOEA and the COA network, coming soon.
Please join us for a discussion on May 1 at 10am, more information and registration can be found here: Register for the Zoom Session here.
Apr 12, 2024 | News
The Massachusetts Alzheimer’s Advisory Council would like to improve its understanding of the financial implications of dementia. The Council is asking for your help in identifying dementia caregivers or their loved ones to discuss this topic with them. Volunteers would be asked to speak for 5 minutes or less by answering just a couple of questions at the Council’s next meeting, which will be convened on Zoom on Tuesday, May 7 at 3:00 PM.
To volunteer to participate or ask any questions about this opportunity, please contact Pam MacLeod at the Executive Office of Elder Affairs at Pam.MacLeod@mass.gov.
Apr 10, 2024 | Member Services, News
… in their effort to understand how organizations in Massachusetts are responding (or not responding) to the public health epidemic of loneliness and social isolation!
Stage one of this statewide survey will be focused on the work of Councils on Aging (COAs). In future stages, we hope to gather information from different types of agencies. Your insights will help identify best practices, lessons learned, and ongoing needs, contributing to a comprehensive strategy to combat social isolation within our communities!
We are looking for one COA staff member to respond to the survey on behalf of the organization. The respondent should have a broad understanding of the agency’s programming and activities, for instance the executive director or outreach coordinator.
Completion of the survey should take about 5-15 minutes.
As a thank you for your participation, you will have the option of adding your name to a drawing for a chance to win 1 of 4 $50 Amazon gift cards.
The information we are gathering affects the collective well-being of our communities. While your participation is voluntary, we hope you will respond. All survey responses will remain anonymous, unless you chose to disclose your identity.
If you have any questions about this, please contact Dr. Christina Matz at matzch@bc.edu/617-552-1634.
Please complete this survey by Friday, April 19, 2024
Feb 23, 2024 | Education & Training, News
Community Conversation on Behavioral Health and Older Adults
COA staff with an interest in behavioral health have a terrific opportunity to tune into a livestream event: Sage Stage of Life: Empowering Older Adults through Supportive Conversations, hosted by the Western Mass Department of Mental Health, Pioneer Valley Coalition for Suicide Prevention, and the Hadley Council on Aging. It takes place on Wednesday, March 6th from 1 – 3pm through Channel 191 and online at youtube.com/@HadleyMedia.
Please consider inviting your community to watch at your Senior Center!
This event will provide an opportunity for supportive conversations and skill-building for older adults, local organizations, and community members. Four topics will include: isolation and connection, sex and love in the later years, grief and loss, and stigma and emotional wellness.
Panelists: (BIOS)
■ Dr. Jane Mildred, Amherst Neighbors, on Isolation and Connection
■ Tammy Nothe-Hebert, Center for Human Development, on Sex and Love
■ Maureen Callahan Smith, author, on Grief and Loss
■ Colleen Sondrini, The Brien Center, on Stigma and Emotional Wellness
For any questions, please reach out to Celest Clerk: celeste.m.clerk@mass.gov
Feb 16, 2024 | Education & Training, News
Transportation and Mobility Coordinators Meeting March 15 at 10:00 AM
Join us for a continuation of our discussion in January on Transportation Options. Maria Foster, Community Outreach Specialist at the Brookline COA, and Jane Gould, PhD, author of “Aging in Suburbia” will present their videos and training for older adults. Maria and Jane have been and will continue to be on the road (pun intended) training older adults in Massachusetts communities.
See 2024_Uber_Lyft_Flyer for more information about these classes for older adults. Maria and Jane are looking forward to garnering feedback from you! Mark your calendars and register now!
REGISTER
Presenters:
Jane Gould, PhD is the author of “Aging in Suburbia,” a book about transportation choices and future mobility. She is trained as a transportation planner and has more than fifteen years of experience developing campaigns for transit and public agencies. She keeps an interactive blog on technology, www.bemobilesmart.com, and has been an active trainer for Ridehail since 2016.
Maria Foster, Community Outreach Specialist, manages all program development and administration for TRIPPS. She and Jane have taught over 30 classes on driving retirement, transportation, and Uber & Lyft. Maria is responsible for all the transportation services provided by the Council on Aging. Maria is from the Boston area and has over 15 years of experience with program planning, implementation, and adult learning.
