Jan 27

older woman looking contemplative

Isolation Compounding the Risks of Elder Abuse During the Pandemic

Since March of 2020 it has been necessary for older adults and other high-risk individuals to stay home as much as possible to avoid exposure to COVID19. While vital to their well-being, it is not without potential cost for those at risk for elder abuse. Victims may experience emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, financial exploitation, self-neglect, […]

Nov 24

Two Caregiver Workshop presenters shown on video screen

Caregiver Burnout Prevention Goes Virtual

Over a dozen family caregivers joined Kate King, a psychologist who focuses on helping older adults and their families, and Carly Kascak Conole, Springwell Caregiver Specialist for a virtual workshop to learn techniques to alleviate symptoms of stress that come from caregiving. While it might seem that a virtual workshop would be a difficult way […]

Nov 01

Julie, and older woman in a walker, standing with her aide, Agnes

In-Home Care and a Stay Home Advisory

COVID19 changed what felt safe for many seniors in need of care. Springwell has been available and flexible, working with families to plan services that help. Julie and her husband Anthony have called Waltham home for the past 42 years. Julie had a fulfilling career, helping many people both as a social worker and as [...]

Oct 28

Common Sense and Community During the Pandemic

At age 109, Herlda reports that she has been doing “all right” during the pandemic. Early on, she stayed home enjoying television (especially movies with cowboys) and talking with nieces and nephews on the phone. Herlda stays safe and comfortable in her home with the help of Springwell homecare services and a personal emergency response [...]

Oct 26

Share your voice to help create the Massachusetts State Plan on Aging

Every four years, the Massachusetts State Plan on Aging is revised based on the needs of older adults (age 60+)  and their 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 […]

Oct 22

photo of speaker Dr. Katherine King, PsyD

Caregiver Burnout Prevention Virtual Workshop

Join Us for a Free Workshop with Katherine King, PsyD from the Comfort of your Home on November 16 at 4:00 pm! Learn several science-backed stress management skills to soothe your challenging emotions, relax your nervous system, and improve your mental wellness. Assess your current well-being, consider your personal strengths and values, and learn why […]

Oct 12

Engaged & Connected: Learn to Use Online Tools During COVID-19

Cooler weather is a fact during autumn in New England. After months of social distancing, it is time to get creative with more indoor activities. There are many opportunities for older adults to remain engaged and connected to their friends, family, and community through online tools during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now more than ever people […]

Sep 01

Older adults in an outdoor setting participating in an exercise class while maintaining social distance

Staying Active at Home During COVID-19

Due to the ongoing risks of COVID-19, many “in person” health and wellness classes for older adults have been canceled. However, there are many options for at-home workouts to help you remain active and healthy throughout the pandemic. If you prefer group workouts, many senior centers and gyms are offering exercise classes and instructional videos […]

Jul 13

Zach Strecker listening on phone in his role as a Friendly Visitor for Springwell

Conversation with a Friendly Visitor is just a phone call away

Due to the risks of COVID19, seniors have never been more isolated, and need to hear that there are people in the community who care about them. To help keep everyone physically distanced yet socially connected, Springwell’s Friendly Visitor program has transitioned smoothly to tele-visits. When Zach Strecker learned about Springwell’s Friendly Visitor program, he [...]