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

Herlda Senhouse

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 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 [...]

Jul 02

Paul Bemko ready to make phone call as Friendly Visitor

Friendly Visitors Transition to Calls

“It’s being a friend and making a difference in someone’s life,” says Paul Bemko when asked about being a volunteer in Springwell’s Friendly Visitor Program. 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 [...]

Jun 25

Senior man, woman with their caregiver at home.

Effective Communication Strategies Through the Stages of Dementia

Springwell has remained open and providing services during the COVID19 pandemic, and that includes our regular program of staff development and education. Josh Obeiter, Dementia Ambassador and volunteer trainer recently led an annual remote web-based training for Springwell staff on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association. The focus was how to communicate effectively with those living [...]

Jun 22

Natasha and Sylvia, Springwell social workers

Care Managers Get Creative Amid COVID19 Risks

When COVID19 hit, everyone had to think differently about many aspects of daily living that previously were just part of normal routines. How do we get groceries? How can I fill my prescription? I need to talk with my physician, but how do I do a virtual visit? I’m alone and home bound so how [...]