Are you a caregiver or worried about the future of a loved one or your own as age reduces one’s abilities?  Here is some suggested information to help. You can also reach out to a Caritas member for assistance. (Check the Faithful Dispatch for the current Caritas Coordinator)

In-person support for Caregivers:  The Family Caregiver Support Program at BayPath Elder Services

No-cost service provides one-on-one consultation with a trained caregiver specialist to assess needs, identify options, provide referrals to community services and resources, assistance gaining access to services and individual supportive counseling. The program is for anyone who is: • Caring for an adult at least 60 years of age • Caring for any person with Alzheimer’s disease • A grandparent or relative (not a parent) aged 55 or older caring for grandchildren under the age of 18 • Any relative aged 55 or older providing care to adults with disabilities aged 18-59.  Call BayPath Elder Services 508-573-7239.

On-line Information, Support and Resources for Caregivers:  CareGivingMetroWest.org

Clickable map for resources in your community • Guide to understanding all aspects and stages of your caregiving journey • Blog of in-depth articles and community news • Home health safety advice • Information on common health conditions • Financial and legal resources • Help understanding government programs • “Wellness Wall” of advice and tips.

Free Transportation Options for Framingham Residents

Callahan Center provides a free shared-ride van for residents 55 and older and those with disabilities for destinations within Framingham and to/from Market Basket in Ashland. Services are available Monday to Thursday 9am to 3:30p.m. and Friday 9a.m. to 1:30p.m. Call Callahan Center at 508-532-5980 to register for the service. Once registration is confirmed contact the MWRTA Call Center at 508-820-4650 to schedule rides.

Roundtrip free taxi service provided by Tommy’s Taxi for age 60+ is available for medical appointments and other necessities beyond Framingham. Call Sam Swisher at 508-532-5980 ext 4113 one week in advance to request service.

Planning

The AARP article “Prepare to Care: A Families Guide for Planning” informs seniors and their families about plans they should have in place.
https://assets.aarp.org/www.aarp.org_/articles/foundation/aa66r2_care.pdf

This website lists comprehensive resources in Metrowest including assisted living facilities, transportation, food, and much more.
https://www.caregivingmetrowest.org

Tips on planning your move

Health Care Proxy and Power of Attorney

Have documents such as a health care proxy and power of attorney in place for the caregiver recipient:  Honoring Choices Massachusetts at  https://www.honoringchoicesmass.com/ 

Finding Affordable Housing

Housing Navigator Massachusetts is a free online tool to search for affordable rentals statewide. Enter preferences like location or number of bedrooms to see a list of apartments that fit your needs. Visit https://www.housingnavigatorma.org

Supports for Living at Home

These websites list highly rated medical alert companies that provide devices to call for help if you are unable to reach or use a telephone.

https://bestmobilityaids.com/best-medical-alert-systems/
https://www.safewise.com/resources/best-medical-alert-systems/

Aging Services Access Points (ASAP) are Massachusetts organizations that help seniors based on the town or city they live in.  This site lists the ASAP for each town.
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/aging-services-access-points-asap

Meal Delivery Service for Seniors This site, Heart to Home, is for delivered meals. No subscription required.

This site provides information about senior benefits and discounts. It is part of the Retire Guide website that offers much information about planning for retirement.

retireguide.com/guides/senior-benefits-discounts/

Disability Resources and Homecare Services

Helpful information for elders and anyone who is seeking disability resources and homecare services: https://massoptions.org/massoptions/ 

Healthcare

How to Apply for Medicare This site introduces what Medicare coverage is and how to apply.  retireguide.com/medicare/

About Medicare This site is intended for caregivers and what they need to know about Medicare coverage for people over the age of 65 or younger adults with disabilities.retireguide.com/medicare/coverage/caregivers/

What to know about nursing homes. This site is intended for caregivers and what they need to know about signs of abuse or neglect in nursing homes.

https://www.levinperconti.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-nursing-home-abuse.html

Alzheimers and Other Dementias The Savvy Caregivers program supports families and caregivers dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias.  Go to:  https://healthyliving4me.org/ 

Disability Resources and Homecare Services

Helpful information for elders and anyone who is seeking disability resources and homecare services: https://massoptions.org/massoptions/