Nov 03
If you are lucky enough to have a few grandchildren, you may sometimes get a call that starts with “Hi Grandma, it’s me..” which then leaves you to rapidly sort through names in your head and quickly respond, “Is that you, Richard?” The phone connection may not be completely clear or your hearing may not [...]
Sep 26
Every four years, the Massachusetts State Plan on Aging is revised based on the needs of older adults (age 60+) and family caregivers. The Plan serves to shape the policy development and programs that the Executive Office of Elder Affairs will pursue to promote independence, empowerment, and well-being so those in need will have resources [...]
Jul 25
Caregiving responsibilities don't take a break - not even for the beautiful days of summer when they arrive. In fact, caregiving can make it challenging for both a caregiver and their care recipient to find time and energy to appreciate the opportunities presented by warmer weather. Here we are re-sharing some some ideas with a [...]
Nov 01
Disagreement about care decisions is one of the most difficult dilemmas that many caregivers face. The identified care recipient may deny that they need assistance, while their support community may believe that extra care would enhance their safety and comfort and give them a needed break from daily responsibilities. Maintaining independence and dignity is good [...]
Sep 15
Donna Murray, Springwell’s Caregiver Specialist helps caregivers access resources but perhaps even more importantly she helps them figure out their goals, build resilience, set boundaries, and learn how to make time for themselves. Typically, the family caregiver’s goal is to provide exceptional care for a relative that makes living at home safe and comfortable. Caregivers [...]
Nov 01
National Family Caregivers Month, observed annually in November, is a reminder to support and honor family caregivers. The role of a family caregiver may include providing personal care, homemaking, home health care, transportation, meals and much more depending on the needs of the care recipient. In 2022, family caregivers are finding the role increasingly challenging [...]
Oct 04
“Suicide prevention is hope” said Steven Karaiskos, PhD, Senior Director of Community Education & Outreach at Samaritans, Inc., in a recent training seminar for Springwell employees. Dr. Karaiskos is a social learning expert, a suicide prevention advocate, an educator, and a long-time suicide loss survivor. He has spent years supporting those affected by suicide and [...]
Jun 01
Recently, Springwell’s Caregiver Specialist and Dr. Katherine King, PsyD., a psychologist who helps older adults and their families, hosted family caregivers for a virtual workshop. The topic was universal human needs and how caregivers can meet their own needs even when there is very little extra time. King described caregiving as the ultimate marathon. Just [...]
May 09
Evelyn and Ray, longtime residents of Newton, have been married for 36 years. About four years ago, Evelyn noticed subtle differences in Ray that turned out to be the onset of dementia. Recently retired, Ray had worked until he was 80. He and Evelyn were active in their community and longtime supporters of many organizations [...]
Apr 14
Martha, a resident of Watertown, doesn’t remember when or how she first heard about Springwell but says that when she is facing a problem, she calls her Springwell Care Advisor, Kayla, and together they figure out how to solve the problem. As older adults, Martha and her husband have faced the challenges that go along [...]
