General Information

Commission on the status of Grandparents Raising Children: A resource to fostering education, networking, research, programs and support to grandparents and all relatives raising grandchildren. Address - 600 Washington St. 6th Boston, MA  - Phone: (617) 748-2454, Email: colleen.pritoni@state.ma.us see more  

• Council of Social Concern: Non-profit organization that operates an early education center with sliding- scale fees, connections with family child care providers, and parenting education classes. Services are based in Woburn but available to Winchester residents. Address - 2 Merrimac St. Woburn, MA  - Phone: (781) 935-6495, see more 
• Family Action Network of Winchester - A non-profit with the goal of providing support and resources for parents with young children. Host events for parents and children. Email: info@fanwinchester.org , see more

How to Stay Connected with Grandkids 

Staying connected with grandkids offers numerous benefits for both generations, including stronger family bonds, improved mental and physical health for grandparents, and enhanced emotional support and development for grandchildren. 

• How to Bond with Grandkids - LINK 
• How to Connect with Your Grandkids - LINK 
• For the Caregiver - How can I keep my parent connected with the grandkids? Let’s Talk About Aging Parents - A Real Life Guide to Solving Problems with 27 Essential Conversations - Part 3 - Love, Loss and Laughs - , by Laura Tamblyn Watts 

Lifelong Learning & Mental Fitness 

• Chapter 3 - Will I Lose My Memory? The Second Fifty, Answers to the 7 Big Questions of MidLife and Beyond, by Debra Whitman Social Media - Benefits and Risks for Seniors 

Social Media can offer homebound seniors an opportunity to connect with family and friends no longer nearby.  Unfortunately like other users, seniors can fall victim to false illusions that other people are happier or more fulfilled than they. For seniors who may be alone and have low self-esteem, this phenomenon can further exacerbate depression and loneliness. 

Seniors using social media also may face risks like scams, identity theft, and privacy breaches, which can be mitigated with education and support. Several organizations provide online resources to avoid risks while taking advantage of the benefits of social media.  These include: 

• 5 Positive Ways to Use Your Social Media for Good, by AARP, see more
• Scam and Fraud Prevention, National Council on Aging, see more
• Scam and Fraud Prevention YouTube Video - Office of Economic Empowerment, see more 

Super Agers

Jenks Organizations

The Jenks -  The Jenks Center offers cultural, educational, recreational, and social service programming for residents age 55+, to promote active, healthy, and meaningful engagement and connection within the community. The Winchester Seniors Association (WSA) and the Council on Aging work in partnership to offer all programming and services at the Jenks.  To sign up for the Jenks Newsletter with calendar of activities and opportunities to engage in Winchester Activities, Click HERE. 

• Council on Aging at the Jenks The Council on Aging (COA) is a local government agency, governed by an 11-member board, established to identify the needs of Winchester's seniors and to meet those needs through services, education and advocacy. The COA receives local and state funds to support its services. Thousands of clients in Winchester and surrounding towns each year receive direct professional services relating to health maintenance, case management, food insecurity, nutrition, transportation, educational programming, and information and referral to access resources. 
  • Social Services at the Jenks - Suzanne Norton serves as the Social Worker at The Jenks.  In this role, Suzanne is available to speak with caregivers and our aging community members about questions you or they may have, or to offer referrals for local or national organizations that may be able to provide home services for the short or long-term. 
  • The Jenks Center Nurse - Colleen Wages  - Days/Time: Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. and Thursdays 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Location: The Jenks Center (Nurse's office is located on lower level), Services: Assist with blood pressure monitoring, pulse rate, weight, medication questions, home care coordination and medical equipment loan program.  If you have any questions, please email the Jenks Nurse, Colleen Wages, at cwages@winchester.us, or call 781-721-7136 (ext. 16).
• Winchester Seniors Association (WSA). The Winchester Seniors Association, Inc. (WSA) is a not-for-profit volunteer corporation of, by, and for people 55 years and older. WSA improves the quality of seniors' lives through participation in, and enjoyment of, a wide range of social, educational, health and recreational activities. With grants from the Cummings Foundation, Mt Vernon House and John and Mary Murphy Foundation, the Jenks is open Tuesday evenings and Saturdays, in addition to during the week to expand offerings to residents of Winchester and neighboring communities. Membership in the Jenks is free and all programming is free except for most physical education classes which are $6/each.   For a list of programs offered at the Jenks in person or remotely sign up for the newsletter or visit the website. - LINK 
  • Language Classes
  • Men’s Discussion Group
  • Performance Arts
  • Visual Arts
  • Knitting/Quilting
  • Mahjong/Bridge
  • Pickleball/Ping pong
  • Quarterly Field Trips
  • Friday Afternoon Movies
  • Educational Lectures
  • Meditation/Yoga/Fitness Classes 
• Winchester Seniors Association Trust (WST). The Winchester Seniors Association Trust (the Trust) is a not-for-profit volunteer organization that has owned and maintained the Jenks Center building since its original construction in 1976. The Trust operates the Jenks Center exclusively to support the Winchester Seniors Association (WSA) in meeting their mission of providing older working and retired adults a range of social, educational, recreational, and health care services. Learn more.

Advocacy & Caregivers Organizations 

• AARP: Offers free care guides, legal checklists, and an online community 
• Alzheimer's Association: Has a map feature to find local support groups 
• Caregiver Action Network (CAN) - Formerly known as the National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA).  Free resources, education, and peer support. Provides checklists, videos, and other tools to help caregivers. Addresses the needs of caregivers for chronically ill, disabled, or aged loved ones. -  LINK 
• Caregivers Support Group - Meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month. 
• Family Caregiver Alliance - Provides information, education, and support groups for family caregivers, Offers a state-by-state list of services and assistance, Supports caregivers for loved ones with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or the frailties of old age. This well-established non-profit has lots of resources for families caring for a relative, whether you’re just starting the journey or are a long-time caregiver in need of support. The “Family Care Navigator” feature provides resources for every state. - LINK 
• Mental Health America: Provides local support for people with mental health conditions and their caregivers 
• National Alliance for Caregiving - Focuses on improving the quality of life for caregivers and those in their care, conducts research, policy analysis, and advocacy, works with the CDC, the National Institute of Aging, and AARP. - LINK 
• National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse – This non-profit organization offers practical information about different types of elder abuse, along with tips on how to investigate. 
• National Stroke Association: Has a support group finder resource 
• Parkinson's Foundation: Has a locator to find local chapters and resources 
• Respite Program at the Jenks- The Council on Aging  supports caregivers by offering a brief respite once per month from 10-12pm. This non-medical weekly program aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment for adults with various types of impairment such as: Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and other forms of dementia. Different activities will be offered like chair exercise, music, storytelling, and games. A light lunch will be served. Please contact Colleen, Jenks Nurse, at 781-721-7136 for registration, eligibility, and participant criteria screening. 
• Solo Agers Network -  The Solo Agers Network offers a series of workshops and programs that offer valuable information for both Solo Agers and Caregivers. Come to discuss the unique needs of solo aging. To plan for the future, solo agers need to be more intentional about forming and maintaining a network of community and professional support. Learn more 

Energy Assistance

• ABCD Fuel Assistance/Weatherization/Home Heating System Repairs/Utility Efficiency Services  -18 Dartmouth St. Malden, MA -Phone: (781) 322-6484, Learn more
• Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP):LIHEAP, a federally funded program, provides grants to states to assist low-income households, including seniors, with heating and cooling costs. 
• Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) (Massachusetts):This state program, also known as Fuel Assistance, helps eligible households pay a portion of their winter heating bills, with payments made directly to the utility or heating vendor. 
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP):WAP provides eligible households, including seniors, with home energy conservation services like insulation, weather stripping, and furnace tune-ups to reduce energy consumption. 
• Heating System Repair & Replacement Program (HEARTWAP) (Massachusetts):This program provides emergency heating system repairs or replacements for low-income homeowners, including seniors. 
• Electric Assistance Program (EAP) (New Hampshire):EAP provides monthly discounts on electric bills for income-eligible customers, including seniors, to help prevent service interruptions. 
• Salvation Army Good Neighbor Fund (Massachusetts):This fund assists eligible consumers with utility bills, including seniors. 
• Local Community Action Agencies: Many local community action agencies, like North Shore Community Action Programs (NSCAP) in Massachusetts and Rockingham County Community Action (CAPHR), administer HEAP and other energy assistance programs. 

Grief and Bereavement Assistance 

• Bereavement Support Group: Held at St. Eulalia’s. Topics include an overview of the bereavement process, signs and symptoms of grief, feelings associated with bereavement, and the uniqueness of each person’s grief experience. - 50 Ridge St. Winchester, MA - Phone: (781) 729-8220 Ext. 16 - LINK 
• The Children's Room: Grief support services for children, teens, and families. Services are aimed at children ages 3-18 who have lost a parent or sibling, as well as for their caregivers. Runs support groups, teen programming, and referrals. -  1210 Massachusetts Ave. Arlington, MA - Phone: (781) 641-4741  - E-mail: info@childrensroom.org - LINK 
• From Grief to Growth: Helping Senior Parents Navigate Single Living - LINK 
• Supporting Parents in their Grief, Transitions and New Relationships - When senior parents start to date again, it's important to respect their desire for companionship and happiness, while also being mindful of potential concerns like safety and emotional well-being; it's crucial to communicate openly with them, understand their motivations, and address any anxieties you may have as their adult child, allowing time to adjust to the new situation. 
• How to cope when your aging parent starts dating or begins a new relationship - LINK 
• Part 3 - Love, Loss and Laughs - Let’s Talk About Aging Parents - A Real Life Guide to Solving Problems with 27 Essential Conversations, by Laura Tamblyn Watts 
  • How do I cope with the guilt? 
  • What if my parent is toxic? 
  • Why is my parent getting divorced now? 
  • Do I have to think about my parent having safe sex? 
  • How can I help my grieving parent? 
  • How do I deal my parent’s new relationship? 

Health Assistance

• Jenks, Nurse, Colleen Wages - Winchester benefits from a nurse on staff to support the healthcare needs of our local seniors. The Nurse’s Office can be found on the lower level, and Colleen is available Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Thursdays 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Some of the services she provides include: Assisting with blood pressure monitoring, pulse rate, weight, medication questions, home care resources/referrals and medical equipment loan program. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email the Jenks Nurse, Colleen Wages, at cwages@winchester.us or call 781-721-7136 (ext. 16). 
• The Podiatry Clinic at the Jenks - Once a month,  8:00 am - 3:30 pm, Fee: $40 (Cash or Check payment at time of visit) Services are provided by  Dr. Seligman (Board Certified Podiatrist) (Appointments Required, Call 781-721-7136 to schedule) 
• Flu Vaccines at the Jenks - Vaccinations are administered by the Winchester Health Department and are open available to all non-school residents. These are coordinated by the Town Nurse, Karen DeCampo, who can be reached at 781-721-7121. The Health Department will post dates for the flu clinics with directions for registration and location in the fall. 
• Medical Transportation - SCM Door-t-Door provides transportation to medical appointments in the Greater Boston Area, Monday-Friday, starting at 9 am and returning by 4pm. Wheelchair accessible vehicles are based on availability. Call 781-721-7136 x17 one week in advance to schedule. 
• Nourish- Nourish is a group that meets monthly to promote brain health, encourage socialization, and stimulate the five senses through music, crafts, and fun activities. ALL are welcome as we focus on nourishing our mind, body, and soul. It is held the 4th Tuesday of every month, 10:30 am-11:30 am. We do a range of activities including crafts, musical guests, chair exercise, meditation and more. You may register online at www.jenkscenter.org or call 781-721-7136. 
• Aging Life Care Association (formerly the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers) – This site provides information about what geriatric care managers (now called aging life care professionals) do, as well as a directory to help you find care managers in your area. 
• Alzheimer’s Association - 10 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s – The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Check out their website for tips on caring for and identifying early signs of this disease. A good resource for people concerned about memory or thinking problems. Lists 10 common signs of early dementia, compares them to normal age-related changes, and provides tips on what to do next. 
• Administration on Aging: Eldercare Locator – Enter your zip code and this government website will list your local Area Agency on Aging, along with a variety of other local government resources that can help you manage senior problems. 
• Health in Aging – The consumer health information website of the American Geriatrics Society. The section on medications in older adults is especially useful. 
• Daughterhood.org – A website with a special focus on supporting women caring for aging parents. Particularly helpful to those struggling with guilt or overwhelm. 
• AgingCare.com Caregiver Forum – This is a particularly active online forum for people caring for aging parents, spouses, and other relatives. An excellent place to get support and ideas from other family caregivers. 

Housing Assistance

• AARP Homefit, Phone: (877) 434-7598 https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits/home-life/homefit-guide/
• Alternatives for Seniors, Provides a list of an array of needs including senior housing options, nursing centers, home care services, meal services, legal services, financial assistance, etc.Phone: (888) 932-7747, https://www.alternativesforseniors.com/senior-living/
• The Massachusetts Assisted Living Association - This non-profit association is dedicated to professionally operated assisted living residences in Massachusetts that provide housing and services for individuals with varied needs and income levels. 465 Waverley Oaks Rd. Ste. 300 Waltham
  Phone: (781) 622-5999 - https://www.mass-ala.org/  
• CEDAC Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation Financial Assistance to help the elderly modify your home for safety)Phone: 617-727-5944 www.cedac.org
• The Asa Fletcher Fund- A one-time use emergency fund to support Winchester residents going through difficult times as a result of hardships or recent events. Reach out to Jenks Center Social Worker.  109 Skillings Rd. Winchester, MA - Phone: (781) 721-7136
• Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) was established in 2023 to create more homes and lower housing costs for Massachusetts residents. EOHLC also distributes funding to municipalities, oversees the state-aided public housing portfolio, and operates the state's Emergency Family Shelter (EA) program. 100 Cambridge St. Boston, Ma Phone: (617)573-1100
• CHAMP (Common Housing Application for Massachusetts Programs) Apply for Massachusetts state-aided Public Housing program, the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP) and the Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP). Through the online system, this website lets you submit your application to one or more housing agencies, instead of having to mail or hand deliver an application to each housing agency separately.https://publichousingapplication.ocd.state.ma.us/ 
• Housing Navigator MA is the official online listing and search tool for accessible and affordable rental homes in Massachusetts.https://housingnavigatorma.org/ 
• MyMassHome is the official online listing and search tool for accessible and affordable homeownership opportunities in Massachusetts.https://www.mymasshome.org/ 
• My Mass Mortgage Created under the Massachusetts Homeownership Compact this website was designed to assist potential homeowners in the Homebuying process. www.mymassmortgage.org 
• The Malden Warming Center 529 Eastern Ave. Malden, MA Phone: 781-324-4230 The MWC is a temporary night center for those that are homeless providing safe shelter and warmth during the winter months. Open December 1 - March 31. https://www.maldenwarmingcenter.org/ 
• Metro Housing Boston- Residential Assistance for Families in Transition Program (RAFT) (Covers Metro Boston Area)1411 Tremont St. Boston, MA Phone: (6) 859-0400 Provide financial support for housing and utilities, as well as homelessness prevention. https://ww.metrohousingboston.org/ 
• Mission of Deeds (Reading) 6 Chapin Ave. Reading, MA, Phone: (781) 944-9797  Provides beds, furniture, and household essentials to those in financial need. Email:info@missionofdeeds.org, http://www.missionofdeeds.org/
• Heading Home- Emergency Housing/Shelter - Phone: (866) 584-0653 Families, Phone : (617) 573-1390 Individual: Heading Home provides emergency, transitional and permanent housing, and support services, to extremely low-income homeless and formerly homeless children and adults, primarily in the communities of Boston, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Lawrence, Malden, Medford, Quincy, Revere, and Somerville.https://www.headinghomeinc.org/
• Section 8 Voucher Program Phone: (617) 573-1150 The Section 8 Housing choice Voucher Program (HCVP) helps families with low income by paying part of their rent. If you qualify, you'll receive a voucher to pay part of your rent. You'll have a limited time to find a rental home anywhere in the country. You can also choose to stay in your current rental home if it meets the program's requirements. https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-the-section-8-housing-choice-vouchers-program-hcvp  
• Winchester Housing Authority 13 Westley St. Winchester, MA Phone: (781) 721-5718 http://www.winchesterha.org  Housing authorities provide decent and affordable housing for individuals with low income, seniors, handicapped persons, single mothers with children and the homeless. 

Home Management Assistance

• 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 
• ED Storck Cleaning - Provides residential cleaning, moving services, post construction services, turnover cleaning services, and office cleaning. Waltham, MA - Phone: (781) 296-3701 - http://www.edstorckcleaninginc.com/contact-us/ 
• Lucy Vieira Cleaning Services - Professional Residential Cleaning - Move in/Move out, Regular or one-time available, 617/529-4162 Email: luvieira2009@hotmail.com
• Maidpro - Offers a full range of house cleaning services, Phone: (781) 643-1063 www.maidpro.com/arlington
• PQ Cleaning & Organizing: Provide home and commercial cleaning along with support organizing/decluttering homes.  - Medford and Surrounding Areas - Phone: (781) 518- 3262 - LINK 
• 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
• 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 

Crisis & Hotlines 

• Elder Abuse Hotline - National - (800) 922-2275 Mass. - (855) 530-1796 
• Massachusetts: Disabled Persons Protection Commission  - (800) 426-9009 - TTY - (888) 822-0350 
• Mobile Mental Health Crisis Services  - (800)540-5806 
• National Domestic Violence Hotline  -  (800)-799-7233 - TTY - (877)-521-2601 
• National Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration Helpline - (800) 662-4357 - TTY: 1 (800) 487-4889 
• National Sexual Assault Hotline - (800) 656 4673 [24/7 hotline] 
• Suicide Hotlines (Massachusetts) - Dial “988” Suicide and Crisis Lifeline - Boston: (617) 247-0220 
• Poison Control - Phone: 1 (800) 222-1222 
• Veterans Crisis Line - Phone: 1(800) 273-8255 - TTY: 1 (800) 799-4889 
• Winchester Fire Department 32 Mount Vernon St. - (781) 729-1802 
• Winchester Hospital 41 Highland Ave - (781) 729-9000 
• Winchester Police 30 Mt Vernon St - (781) 729-1214 

Legal & Financial Assistance

• MA Senior Legal Helpline Phone: (800) 342-5297 The Helpline is a project of the Volunteer Lawyers Project of Boston. We provide free legal information and referral services to Massachusetts residents who are 60 years old or older. The Helpline is open Monday through Friday 9AM-12PM.
• EdLaw Project   Phone: (617) 910-5829 Email: edlawproject@publiccounsel.net https://www.publiccounsel.net/edlaw-project/The EdLaw Project provides education advocacy for children and youth ages 0-22. to Massachusetts residents regardless of income. We may be able to give additional help to low-income children who are involved with the juvenile court system or children impacted by incarceration of a parent.
• Tax Assistance: Volunteers provide tax assistance to seniors and prepare income taxes. The program runs from February until April. This is for standard tax returns that would not require an accountant. By appointment. Contact the Jenks to schedule. (781) 721-7136, Email: info@jenkscenter.org 
• Benefits Checkup, Fridays by Appointment: Millions of older adults and people with disabilities connect with benefit programs that help with health care, medicine, food, utilities, and more.   Contact Jenks Center social worker for a confidential appointment to see what’s available in your area. snorton@winchester.us, 781-721-7136 x 15 
• SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) The program provides free health insurance information and counseling to all Massachusetts residents with Medicare and their caregivers.  SHINE counselors are available regularly at the Jenks. Call the Jenks Center (781) 721-7136 to schedule your appointment. Phone: (800) 243-4636 for Mass support 
• Consumer Reports: What to do when you suspect financial abuse – This is a well-written article which includes examples of common financial abuse scenarios, suggestions on what to do, and a good list of additional online resources.  
• Financial Exploitation in Aging - What to Know - https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/financial-abuse-what-to-know/
• Social Security Information - Provides information and forms regarding disabilities, retirement, Medicare, SSI, benefits, etc. Local address -  10 Fawcett St. Cambridge, MA - Phone: (888) 527-9340 - WEBSITE 
• Social Security for Disabled - LINK 
• Children’s Law Center 298 Union St. # 2, Lynn, MA
• Legal Helpline: 1 (888) 543-5298 or 781-581-1977 Legal helpline provides information, resources, and referrals to callers statewide relating to the rights of children and youth in education, immigration, health and mental health, and with system-involved youth.  
• Committee for Public Counsel Services 6 Pleasant St. 6th Floor, Malden, MA Phone: 781-397-7547  https://www.publiccounsel.net/ We provide legal representation in Massachusetts for those unable to afford an attorney.
• Greater Boston Legal ServicesPhone: (617) 742-0625 or (800) 323-3205 www.gbls.org  Provides free civil legal representation to low-income people.
• Lawyers/Attorneys https://www.yellowpages.com/winchester-ma/attorneys A list of local attorneys in Winchester. 
• Lawyer Referral Service - Massachusetts Bar Association https://www.massbar.orgPhone: (617) 338-0500(617) 544-3434
• Lawyer Clearinghouse7 Winthrop Square Boston, MA 02110Phone: (617) 544-3434 Email: sthekkeparayil@lawyersclearinghouse.org  
• Massachusetts Legal Resource Finder https://masslrf.org/en/home Information for legal aid offices, government agencies and court programs that may be able to help you for free or at low cost.
• MassNAELA www.massnaela.com Assistance locating appropriate attorney.
• Woburn Courthouse 30 Pleasant St. Woburn, MA Phone: (781) 935-4000 https://www.mass.gov/locations/woburn-district-court  Offers a Bar Advocate for the day that will offer free legal support with criminal cases. 

Nutrition Assistance /Organizations

• 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 
• 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. 
• 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. 
• Jenks Holiday Basket Delivery 
• Tea at the Farm & Cooking with Wright Locke Farm Chef 
• Breakfast at the Jenks
• 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  
• 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 
• 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 
•  

Local Food Pantries, Market Coupons & Food Assistance 

• Bread of Life Food Pantry: Food pantry for Winchester, Lexington, and Lincoln residents. Clients must provide a letter of need from a social worker to establish need. Food distribution happens on Sundays. - 54 Eastern Ave. Malden, MA - Phone: (781) 397-0404 - LINK 
• Council of Social Concern: Non-profit organization that operates a food pantry for individuals and families in Winchester and Woburn. Recipients must arrange an appointment in order to receive food. One appointment per household per month.  - 2 Merrimac St. Woburn, MA - Phone: (781) 935-6495  - E-mail: Pula@socialconcern.org - LINK 
• Enka Pantry: Providing non-perishable food items to individuals and families living in Winchester. By appointment only. * Jenks provides free transportation to the Enka Pantry for Winchester residents. - 1037 Main Street, Winchester, MA - Phone: (781)369-5844 to schedule an appointment.  - LINK 
• Lexington Interfaith Food Pantry: The Interfaith Food Pantry is a food pantry held at the Church of Our Redeemer in Lexington. The Food Pantry is supported by monetary and food donations from Lexington residents. The Food Pantry is open on Saturday Mornings 9:30 – Noon. - 6 Meriam St. Lexington, MA - Phone: (781) 861-5060  - LINK 
• The Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Provide low-income seniors with access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs and supports agricultural programs. Winchester Residents should contact the Jenks Center Social Worker, Suzanne Norton.  Non- residents- Rebecca Davidson, Coordinator Phone: (857) 202-7699 - Email: Icon rebecca.davidson@mass.gov 
• Project Bread - 145 Border Street, East Boston, MA 02128-1903 - Phone: 617-723-5000 FAX: 617-248-8877 - info@projectbread.org 
• SNAP Program (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program): A

  supplemental nutrition program that helps low-income people buy nutritious food. You may be eligible to receive SNAP benefits if you meet certain income and resource requirements. - 80 Everett Avenue, Chelsea, MA 02150 - Phone: DTA Assistance Line: (877) 382-2363 - Phone: Senior Line (833) 712-8027  DTA Document Processing Center Fax (617) 887-8765 
• 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 
• 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 

Social, Volunteerism & Recreational Programs

• Winchester Recreation Department - learn more
• 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 

Transportation Resources

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 
• 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. 
• Medical Transportation - SCM Door-t-Door provides transportation to medical appointments in the Greater Boston Area, Monday-Friday, starting at 9 am and returning by 4pm. Wheelchair accessible vehicles are based on availability. Call 781-721-7136 x17 one week in advance to schedule. 
• 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 

 Resource Documents


Books
 The Complete Eldercare Planner - Where to start, which questions to ask and how to find help, by Joy Loverde 

• Effective Planning 
• Creating a Care Team 
• Be Kind to Yourself 
• Communicating 
• Emergency Preparedness 
• Money Matters 
• Legal Matters 
• Insurance 
• Housing 
• Safe and Secure 
• Transportation and Mobility 
• Managing Medical Care 
• Quality of Life 
• Death and Dying 
• Access Now 
• Checklists and Worksheets 

The Fragile Years- Proven Strategies for the Care of Aging Loved Ones, by Amy Cameron O’Rourke, Book and YouTube Series - WEBSITE 

• A Crisis for the Aging Like No Other 
• Recognizing Your Loved One’s Entry Into the Fragile Years 
• Finding a Caring Place for Your Parent’s Fragile Years 
• The Home Care Option 
• Caring for the Memory Impaired and Others with Special Challenges 
• Pharmageddon: Prescriptions for Disaster 
• Stopping Repeated Hospitalizations and Over treatment 
• Finding Your Way Through the Maze of Health care Insurance and VA Benefits 
•  Providing End of Life Care with Compassion and Grace 



Let’s Talk about Aging Parents - A real Life Guide to Solving Problems with 27 Essential Conversations, by Laura Tamblyn Watts 

• Part 1 - The house, home care, and moving out 
• Part 2 - Mental capacity, power of attorney, and safety 
• Part 3 - Love, loss, and hopefully some laughs 
• Part 4 - Health, hearing issues, and horrible driving 

When your Aging Parent Needs Help - A geritrician’s step-by-step guide to memory loss, resistance, safety worries, and more. by Leslie Kernisan and Paula Spencer Scott 

• Taking Stock 
  • Chapter 1 -Get the Facts on the Situation 
  • Chapter 2 - Get Your Parent’s Take 
    • Taking Aim 
      • Chapter 3 - Learn the Ideal Approach 
      • Chapter 4 - Realize Why the Ideal Is Usually Hard 
      • Taking Action 
        • Chapter 5 - Plan your Next Steps, And Try Them 
        • Chapter 6 - Use These Workarounds for Common Obstacles 
      • Take the Long View 
        • Chapter 7 - Try This When You Feel Really Stuck 
        • Chapter 8 - Equip Yourself for the lArger Journey of Helping Your Aging Parent 
      • Resources 
        • Downloadable Cheatsheets 

Working Daughter: A Guide to Caring for Your Aging Parents While Making a Living, by Liz O'Donnell (Author) 

I’m Still Here, John Zeisel, Ph.D. 

Forget Me Not, Debra Kostiw 

Where The Light Gets In,  Kimberly Williams-Paisley 

Nana Nana , Nate Bertone (children’s book) 

The Invisible Patient, Annalee Kruger 

Toolkits

A Caregivers Toolkit, courtesy of Jenks Center - go to Caregiving and Partnering 

with Aging Loved Ones - LINK 

Videos

Amy Cameron Rourke - Author of the Fragile Years: Amy O’Rourke has worked in the field of aging since high school. She volunteered in nursing homes in high school, and upon college graduation worked for seven years as an activities director in nursing homes and continuing care retirement communities. After graduate school, she became an administrator of health services and a licensed nursing home administrator in a continuing care retirement community for nine years. She owned and operated The Cameron Group, a full-service care management company, for twenty years and is currently working as director of care management for Arosa and owner of O’Rourke and Associates, a public benefits specialist company. She is a recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year award, a TEDx speaker, and the former president of the Aging Life Care Association. A powerful speaker who’s YouTube channel helps caregivers help to become partners with parents and loved ones during the aging process.  - LINK to YouTube Channel 

• The First Stage of The Fragile Years  
• Take Control When Your Parents Are in the Hospital 
• Hire a Case Manager 
• Caring for Parents with Memory Impairments 
• Open and Honest Communications 
• Caring for elders when less is more - Ted Talk 
• We are in this Together 
• Common Concerns of Older people 
• Parent with Dementia  

Pamela D Wilson Website: Pamela Wilson is a caregiving expert, advocate, and speaker who offers subject matter expertise and support to family caregivers, professionals, and organizations. Since 1999, Pamela has provided direct service to families, individuals, caregivers, clinical and social care providers, insurance professionals, elder law and estate planning attorneys, and financial and wealth planners.  Her subject matter expertise is in critical and post-acute care, long-term care, care management, care navigation, caregiver support, elder care, legal and financial appointments, and estate administration. 

Pamela Wilson’s Caregiver’s Library offers a Youtube channel with videos on a variety of relevant topics, that provides solutions not advertisements on products.  LINK 

• Online course for Caregivers - LINK  
• The Caring Generation® Caregiver Podcast:  Episodes feature a wide range of caregiving, health, financial, and legal topics relevant to care associated with aging and health.  LINK 

Websites/Articles

Better Health While Aging (formerly Geriatrics for Caregivers) – Practical information on aging health and on helping older parents. Includes information on healthy aging, preventing falls, medication safety, managing Alzheimer’s, planning for end-of-life, and coping with common caregiving challenges. 

• How to Promote Brain Health: The Healthy Aging Checklist, Part 1, Learn more
• How to Promote Physical Health While Aging: The Healthy Aging Checklist Part 2 https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/how-to-promote-physical-health-for-healthy-aging/
• 7 Commonly Neglected Problems to Address for Healthier Aging:The Healthy Aging Checklist Part 3 https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/7-commonly-neglected-problems-to-address-healthy-aging/
• How to Age Better by Optimizing Chronic Conditions:The Healthy Aging Checklist Part 4 https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/optimizing-chronic-conditions-healthy-aging-checklist-part-4/
• 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/

Daughterhood - Very few people plan for the all-encompassing role of family caregiver. When it hits, the impact affects everyone. Daughterhood strives to help family caregivers feel supported and not alone. With almost a decade of personal interactions with family caregivers, we understand every step of caregiving and all of the emotions that come with it. Daughterhood sees firsthand the struggles of finding affordable and reliable resources and offers free, virtual, and easily accessible “circles” where caregivers can take a ‘deep dive’ into specific areas, including dementia, care transitions, navigating resources and aspects of care to share and learn from each other in a more flexible format about all aspects of caregiving. . - LINK 

Pamela D Wilson & The Caregiving Generation: The Caring Generation represents Pamela’s mission of reaching one million caregivers worldwide to provide help, support, and online education. - Website and Youtube Series on Caretaking and Aging Loved Ones Issues, Resources and Advice - LINK 

SoloAllies.com - SoloAllies.com is a website that provides a directory of professionals who help seniors plan for aging alone. Learn more about the range of national services available and the range of topics from housing to healthcare to legal and financial supports. LINK to learn more. 

https://tellegacy.org/ THE TELLEGACY PROGRAM: Discover the potential of a conversation. Research has shown that loneliness and social isolation can result in long-term negative health outcomes. The intergenerational Tellegacy program helps keep older adults connected. 

https://www.alz.org/ The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Website includes local resources and helpful advice on many topics. 

https://www.apdaparkinson.org/ Founded in 1961, The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) is a nationwide grassroots network dedicated to fighting Parkinson’s disease (PD) and works tirelessly to help the approximately one million with PD in the United States live life to the fullest in the face of this chronic, neurological disorder. 

https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/what-to-know-about-dehydration-in-older-adults 

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/caregiving/taking-care-yourself-tips-caregivers Taking Care of Yourself: Tips for Caregivers 

Glossary

Home Care Services generally refer to non-medical services that seniors receive at home. 



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 personal care. Further classifications follow. 



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. 



Homemakers these care providers perform mostly light housekeeping tasks such as cleaning the bathroom/kitchen, dusting, vacuuming, and laundry. Homemakers do not provide any personal care (i.e., hands on care.) 



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. 

Personal Care Homemakers these care providers have completed additional training that allows them to assist with limited personal care (i.e., bathing and dressing) as well as light housekeeping. 

Geriatric Care Managers. Geriatric care managers are the go-to professionals when you want someone on-the-ground helping to assess your parent’s needs, guiding your family’s decisions, and handling day-to-day issues and challenges. The geriatric care manager (GCM) is often a nurse or social worker who specializes in guiding older adults and families through the complex maze of health and aging services. GCMs are represented by a professional group called the Aging Life Care Association. 

Elder Law Attorneys. A good elder law attorney will help your parent clarify his or her financial and health care wishes in detail and then ensure that those wishes are protected, as much as possible, by legal contracts and documents. Elder law attorneys help clients plan for long-term care needs, sort out their advance directives and wills, and make sure the financial power of attorney is in place. They can be a big help understanding the eligibility rules for Medicaid in your parent’s state. Plus, more and more lawyers are teaming up with GCMs to offer one-stop shops. To find an attorney, check out the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys’ website which has an elder lawyer locator. 

Certified Senior Advisors. GCMs, lawyers, and other professionals such as insurance specialists, financial advisors, and home care providers may seek additional professional credentialing through an organization called the Society of Certified Senior Advisors. When you see the CSA credential, it means that the Society of CSAs has certified that the individual is competent to integrate knowledge of senior issues into their professional practice. 

As with the others, the Society of Certified Senior Advisors has a professional locatoron its website that you can use. 

Daily Money Managers. There’s a whole profession dedicated to helping  parents manage their money. It’s called Daily Money Managers (DMM). You can search for one in your area here.  Two companies that operate DMM businesses offer advice remotely: Eddy and Schein, based in NYC and LA and Everyday Money Management, based in Maryland. 

Senior Move Managers. There’s a whole profession to help with senior move management. You can read more about them and find one in your area if you go to the National Association of Senior Move Managers’ website. In another podcast episode, Rosanne spoke to Marty Stevens-Heebner the president of NASMM about How To Move Your Parents