27 Recommended Preventive Health Services for Older Adults: the Healthy Aging Checklist Part 5 https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/preventive-health-services-for-older-adults-healthy-aging-checklist-part-5/

Addressing Medical, Legal, & Financial Advance Care Planning:The Healthy Aging Checklist Part 6 -  https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/addressing-medical-legal-financial-advance-care-planning-healthy-aging-checklist-part-6/

• Executive Office of Health and Human Services - Provides children, youth, adults, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and the elderly access to needed services such as support with housing, long term services, nutrition and financial benefits and so on. 1 Ashburton Pl. Boston, MA, Phone: (617) 573-1600 https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-health-and-human-services         
• Healthy Living Programs- Minuteman Senior Services (serves Winchester) - Education programs for seniors around chronic disease self-management. Also offer services for caregivers. One Burlington Woods Drive Suite 101, Burlington, Ma 01803 Phone: (781) 221-7095 https://www.minutemansenior.org/our-services/healthy-living/overview
• Jenks Blood Pressure Clinic- The Jenks Nurse will offer blood pressure checks at the center and an appointment time is necessary. Please register for a time slot. Phone: (781)721-7136 www.jenkscenter.org 
• Medicare. A national health insurance program that provides health insurance for the disabled and for Americans aged 65 and over.Phone: (800) 633-4227  www.medicare.gov 
• North Suburban YMCA - Offers a variety of exercise and wellness programming for all ages. Financial assistance for membership is available. 137 Lexington St. Woburn, MA, Phone: (781) 935-3270, http://ymcaboston.org/northsuburban
• Winchester Hospital Center for Healthy Living, Offers a variety of fitness classes, a weight management program, and health education for community members. , 200 Unicorn Park Drive, Suite 401 Woburn, MA, Phone: (781) 756-4700, http://www.winchesterhospital.org
• Winchester Hospital Weight Loss Support Group - Support group meetings (optional) focused on different weight management topics, www.winchesterhospital.org, Phone: (781)756-6760
• Winchester Public Health - Flu Clinic, Seasonal flu clinics for families and children, accepts private and public health insurance. Held at the Jenks Center. 109 Skillings Rd. Winchester, MA, Phone: (781) 721-7121, https://www.winchester.us/392/Public-Flu-Clinics

Safety 

Avoiding Falls

The number one action driving seniors from independence is a fall. Each year 1 in 4 older adults experience significant falls with approximately 50% of these occurring in their homes. With current trends and falls the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among older adults, we can expect 7 fall deaths every hour by 2030. (CDC). Nine of 10 homes do not have modification in their home to support safe aging in place.  Most of this section addresses the controllable issues of modifying homes to avoid falls, but the following articles are also important to address underlying medical conditions that may also be causing falls.

• Preventing Falls in Aging Adults - https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/falls-topic/
• 8 Things to check after a person falls - https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/8-things-to-check-after-fall-in-aging/

Safety Plans & Home Modification   

Aging in place typically requires creating a safe environment and conducting a space risk assessment.  According to the CDC modifying the home can reduce fall risks by up to 40% 

Several organizations are available to conduct these assessments, but the Winchester Council on Aging recommends looking to Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy organizations, such as Healthy Aging Physical Therapy to work with you and or your loved ones to develop a personalized plan that helps you proactively and cost effectively create safe, functional and personalized living spaces where you can age in place. 

• Most common fall hazards: poor lighting, loose rugs, clutter, changes in flooring materials, activities in the bathroom and bedroom. 
• Fall prevention preparations: Exercise, health management, balance training, and home modifications. 
• Modifications: Depending on living arrangements there are certain modifications that can make a home safer to reduce the risk of falls. Here are some simple tips. 
  • How to Modify Your Home for Safety with Tips on Equipment and Strategies for Today!,  Click HERE 

Tip - “Home safety evaluations should be collaborative, client-centered and customized.  A professional should not be entering your home with a one-size fits all prescriptive approach, but rather should take time to get to know you and what challenges you are facing.  They should take a problem-solving based approach, that takes into account a client’s values, activities and roles.” - Shannon Hardy, OTR/L,Healthy Aging 

Resources: 

• AARP HomeFit Guide - LINK 

Quick ideas: 

• Keep frequently used items within easy reach. 
• Rug Tape - “Rug Grip” Yellow Tape 
• Anti Slip Tread to Steps (also adds contrast for visual cues) 
•  Install handrails on both sides of stairs or install a chair lift 
•  Clear clutter and arrange furniture so there’s room to walk 
• Get rid of loose rugs and keep electrical cords out of the way in tubs - AmazonSticky tread that can be applied 
• Raised Toilet Seats (elevator) with handles on either sides 
• Shower Chair (In case you’re fatigued in the shower 
• Hand held shower mounted to wall with easy bin for shampoo and conditioner 
• Put rubber bands around shampoo and conditioner so you know which is which. 
• Use nightlights and motion detection lights. especially where you are walking at night in between spaces. 
• Bed rails can really help getting in and out of bed. 
• Add risers to chairs to make it easier to get up and down from furniture or add a cushion 
• Purchase a couch cane to make it easier to get up from a chair. 
• Have an organizational sleeve on the couch so you can always find remote. 
• In kitchen always use armed chairs 
• Electric tea kettles that tilt more easily if it’s too heavy. 
• Sock grabbers 
• Rolling carts for laundry, soap pods vs big jug soap 
• Mirror on top of laundry to make it easier to see if there is something inside of top load washer... 🙂 
• Wall holder for hair dryer if you can’t raise hands above from shoulder injury. 
• Sub out elastic shoe laces 
• Button hook in case you have arthritis or snap clothes instead of buttoms. 
• Auto food and water dispenser for pets. 
• Leg loop to help get your left leg into the car 
• Hook to pull down the seatbelt 

Isolation & Loneliness as a Medical Risk 

Social isolation and loneliness are serious health risks for older adults. They can lead to a higher risk of physical conditions, such as: high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, weakened immune system, and Type 2 diabetes. They also lead to mental risks, including: anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, Alzheimer's disease, and self-harm. Social isolation and loneliness are increasingly being recognized as a priority public health problem. 

• How social isolation impacts health of older Americans - LINK  
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Read about loneliness and social isolation as a public health issue. - LINK 

Resources: 

• ForAllAges - Intergenerational Programs to End Loneliness - LINK 
• Massachusetts Councils on Aging - Find Senior Centers across the Commonwealth.- LINK 
• Commit to Connect Campaign: Learn more about the national effort to combat social isolation led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL). - LINK 
• Commit to Connect Activities and Resources: View and share these ACL resources to help older adults stay connected. - LINK 
• Eldercare Locator: Use this free national service to find local resources for older adults. - LINK - https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx 
• Engaged: National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults: Find information, resources, and strategies to promote social engagement in your community. - LINK 

Tips to Avoid Isolation When Aging Alone 

See Socialization and Education section under General Information - LINK 

To avoid isolation when aging alone, seniors must focus on actively maintaining social connections by reaching out to family and friends regularly, joining community groups or clubs based on their interests, volunteering, exploring new hobbies, utilizing technology for communication, and considering pet companionship if suitable.  Caregivers should help their loved one remain open to trying new activities and seeking support from local organizations or senior centers when needed.  

Engaged seniors don't wait for others to reach out, they take initiative to connect with people and be open to new experiences. Help ensure your loved one has reliable means of transportation to attend events and activities. Stay positive and optimistic with them. Maintaining a positive attitude can help to engage with others and overcome feelings of isolation. 

Tip: There are many volunteer opportunities in Winchester, especially with the Enka Society, Winchester Library, local food banks, and Winchester Hospital. The Jenks is always looking for drivers to assist others with transportation needs or volunteer greeters at our front desk.   Volunteering at the library or in schools not only gets seniors out of the house, but may also offer some financial relief through Winchester’s Tax Abatement program.  (See Financial And Legal Services for More Information - LINK). And if you don’t live in Winchester look for volunteer opportunities for seniors in your community at Volunteermatch.com 

In home services 

What are the different levels of In home service providers? 

Home Care Workers are non-medical care providers that assist with shopping, escorting, errands, cooking, and companionship, in addition to cleaning and laundry. Some home care workers may also be trained to provide some personal care such as dressing, bathing or grooming but it is not their primary function. 

Home Health Aides. These care providers most often perform personal care tasks including assistance with bathing, dressing, toileting, and meal preparation. Home health aides may also perform some minimal homemaking tasks but it is not their primary function. 

Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA’s) – These care providers most often perform personal care tasks including assistance with bathing, dressing, toileting, and meal preparation. CNA’s, must also pass a state certification exam that allows them to provide personal care to clients in their homes as well as in nursing homes assisted living facilities, and hospitals. 

Questions to ask when hiring a home care service provider 

• How proficient is the caregiver, and/or how long has this agency been in operation? 
• What skills does the caregiver possess in caring for people with mild cognitive decline

  or Alzheimer’s? If your loved one is living with a chronic disease, what training does

  the caregiver have in providing for your loved one’s specific needs? 
• What testimonials exist on behalf of the caregiver or the agency? 
• Does the caregiver have a criminal background? How is the caregiver’s driving and

  work history? How carefully does the agency screen its caregivers? 
• Financial Considerations 
  • What services does the agency offer and what, if any, are the associated fees? Are

    contracts required? Is a minimum fee necessary for service? 
  • Does the agency deliver written statements itemizing all costs and payment

    options related to the home care? 

 Home Healthcare 

• Home Healthcare - There are several options for private home health care in the area; the Jenks Center is happy to provide information and referral for these agencies- contact 781-721-7136 
• BILH Help at Home - Nonprofit home care agency that provides medical, rehabilitative, and assistance with daily activities. Accepts health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.  - 41 Highland Ave. Winchester, MA - Phone: (781) 756-2488 - LINK 
• Search for Aging Caregivers Nationally - LINK 

TIP - Note many private home care agencies have a minimum number of hours for which you must contract in order to use their services. Please be sure to ask in advance about any minimum hour requirements. Some agencies also accept long term care insurance.  

Transportation 

Resources 

Jenks Shuttle Service, and Van Trips: Free round-trip, door to door shuttle service to and from local shopping centers and other venues is provided by the Jenks Center for Winchester residents.  With volunteer drivers, residents can also travel anywhere in Winchester Monday-Friday from 9-4pm for medical, dental, grocery shopping and banking needs.  Patrons can also utilize services for neighboring communities for medical purposes or to access food pantries. All ride requests must be received by 2pm on Thursday of the previous week.  Please contact Jenk’s full-time transportation coordinator, Sue Clarke for more information. 781-721-7138 x17 

Taxi Vouchers - In partnership with Woburn Checker Cab, taxi vouchers are available to Winchester Seniors to purchase at a reduced rate of $5 each. Vouchers are valid between Winchester and neighboring communities. Maximum monthly allowance is 10 vouchers.  Please stop by the Jenks on Tuesdays between 10 and 1pm or contact the Jenks for mail order. 

Tip: If the time has come to stop driving. Seniors might consider passing down cars to a grandchild with the understanding that the grandchild promises to take their grandparent to appointments or just “drive Miss Daisy” once a week. This partnership provides an opportunity for grandparents to spend time together and to also get out and socialize and avoid isolation. - Cathy Jackson, RN and former Mt. Vernon House Executive Director 

Driver Safety 

• Educational Programs ( (Mature Driver Improvement, driver rehab, defensive driving) 
• AARP Driver Safety Program - The AARP Smart Driver course is the nation’s first refresher course specifically designed for drivers age 50 and older. - Wilmington - Phone: (888) 227-7669 - LINK 
• NSC Online Mature Defensive Driving Course - LINK 
• Massachusetts Mature Driver Improvement - LINK 
• Safe Driving for Older Adults - https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/safe-driving-older-adults

Tip - In Massachusetts, drivers age 75 and older must renew their license in person and pass a vision test every five years. They may also be asked to take a written or road test. Illinois and New Hampshire are the only states that require older drivers to retake a road test when renewing their licenses. Vision tests are also required at that time. 

General Topics 

• How to outfit cars for mobility, active park assist 
• Travel Clubs for Aging 
• Handicap Placcards - To obtain a handicap parking placard nationally, you'll need to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the application, get a medical certification from your healthcare provider, and submit the completed application to the DMV. 

Transportation Assistance 

• The Jenks Center: www.jenkscenter.org 781-721-7136 Ask for Sue Transportation Coordinator 
• The RIDE Eligibility Center www.mbta.com/accessibility/the-ride Contact (TREC) at 617-337-2727, or email us at trec@paratransit.org. 
• National Aging and Disability Transportation Center: www.nadtc.org 

Private Transportation Services, Ride shares 

• Bob’s Taxi Co. - Phone: (781) 729-5353  
• Charlie Card (senior discount) - (617)222-3200 - LINK 
• Checker Cab of Woburn, Inc - 289 Rear Salem St Woburn, MA - Phone: (781) 937-6000 - Email: checkercabwoburn@aol.com - LINK 
• QuickLivery - Provides local transportation and transportation to Boston Logan Airport. A 10% discount is available to those that request transportation online. Phone: 617-833-2333. Email: Quicklivery@Quicklivery.net - LINK 
• Yellow Cab -  955 Main St Winchester, MA 01890 - Phone: (781) 729-6666 
  • Seniors and Nutritional Concerns - LINK 

Nutrition 

General Topics 

• Improving Nutrition to Support Healthy Aging - LINK 
• Menopause and Good Nutrition - LINK 
• Dehydration in Seniors: Why It’s Different and What You Need to Know, - LINK 

Resources

• Nutrition with Jessy - Join registered dietician Jessy McNeil, once a month, to learn which foods are beneficial to a person’s overall health and well being. Learn simple, nutritious, easy-to-prepare recipes. Calendar of events is available HERE. Please Register online or call the center at 781-721-7136 for assistance. 
• The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) works to improve the health of low-income persons at least 60 years of age by supplementing their diets with nutritious USDA Foods. USDA distributes both food and administrative funds to participating states and Indian Tribal Organizations to operate CSFP. 135 Santilli Highway - Everett, MA - Phone: 781-338-6480 

Congregate Dining/Shared Meals 

• Jenks Center Congregate Dining “Meet Up Mondays” - The Lunch Bunch meets on Mondays every month.  A $2 donation is recommended. Transportation is available upon request. Please register online or call the center at 781-721-7136 for assistance. Menu available HERE 
• Traveling Chef - A few times each year, Jenks host a special meal. Whether its a carving staion on New Year’s Eve, or Breakfast for lunch or a true Southern BBQ, this is always a highlight.  Sign up for the Jenks newsletter to hear about our next Traveling Chef event. 
• Lex Eat Together - Free dinner every Wednesday night at Church of Our Redeemer for individuals and families. No proof of residency

  or need required. 6 Meriam St. Lexington, MA 
• The Dwelling Place Soup Kitchen - Operated out of the United

  Methodist Church, serves hot dinners for free every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday 5:30 a.m. – 10 a.m. 523 Main St. Woburn, MA Phone: (71) 369-5230   Email: thdwellingplace1987@gmail.com 

Grocery shopping and/or meal delivery assistance 

• Heart to Home Meals 508-500-8392 - LINK 
• Mom’s Meals: LINK 
• Magic Kitchen: LINK 
• Personal Chef To Go: : LINK 
• Meals on Wheels: (781)720-8353 - LINK 
• Winchester Meals on Wheels - Providing home-delivered meals to any
 Winchester, Massachusetts resident unable to shop for or prepare their own
 food. The nutritious meals are supplied by Winchester Hospital’s Catering Service under the direction of the staff dietitians who plan and supervise the meal preparation. 4 Socrates Way. - Winchester, MA 01890 - Phone: (781)516-1900 - Email: winchestermow@gmail.com - LINK 
• Minuteman Senior Services 781-272-7177 - LINK 
• GoGo Grandparent: Rides, Groceries, Meals & More: Built Better For Older Adults And People With Disabilities. - Screened & monitored services from Uber, DoorDash, Instacart and more, with or without a smartphone, 24/7. - call 1 (855) 464 6872 ext 35249 - LINK 

Household Management

Cleaning Services 

• ED Storck Cleaning: Provides residential cleaning, moving services, post construction services, turnover cleaning services, and office cleaning.  - Waltham, MA - Phone: (781) 296-3701 - LINK  
• Maidpro : Offers a full range of house cleaning services - Phone: (781) 643-1063 - LINK 
• PQ Cleaning & Organizing: Provide home and commercial cleaning along with support organizing/decluttering homes.  - Medford and Surrounding Areas - Phone: (781) 518- 3262 - LINK 

Handyman Services 

• Jenks Center Handyman Program : The Jenks Center has a handyman volunteer program in which elderly volunteers provide basic handy work and small household repairs. Ask for the social worker.  - 109 Skillings Rd. Winchester, MA  - Phone: (781) 721-7136 

Plowing and Snow Removal 

• Enka is providing snow removal and plowing services for seniors in need.  Contact them for more information. info@enkasociety.org, 781.729.6146, learn more

Personal Care & Companionship 

• Hair 2 Go- In-home Haircuts - Suzanne Hickey - Based in Westford, MA. Wet down cut $40 Wash blow dry $50 - Phone: (978) 457-0390 
• Seniors Helping Seniors (Boston Metro North): Matches seniors with older adults to provide assistance with daily living activities and companionship. Reading, MA - Phone: (781) 205-4930 - LINK 
• PACE – Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly is a MassHealth/Medicare program designed to help eligible seniors receive home care as alternative to nursing homes.  Contact: Fallon Health - Summit ElderCare PACE Program - 10 Chestnut Street, Worcester, MA 01608 - Phone: (508) 723-4382  - LINK