The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes."
Frank Lloyd Wright
Solo Ager Network – Past Programs
Programs listed based on category of “Elements of a Personalized Care Plan”
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Aging at Home
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Living Independently at Home
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Leslie May Chibani, Minuteman Senior Services
800-439-2370
Program Date and Description:
March 6, 2024: Minuteman Senior Services will present resources that enable older adults to continue living at home. Learn what’s available; whether you need services today or want to know what’s available for future needs. While open to all, the presentation will focus on the unique needs of Solo Agers – those without the support of adult children or family. An audience discussion will follow the presentation.
2. Making Your Home Work for You
Shannon Hardy, Occupational Therapist, HealthyAgingPT
617-398-4508
Program Date and Description:
March 19, 2025: Imagine your home as a place where you feel safe, comfortable, and supported in your daily life. Shannon Hardy, occupational therapist at Healthy Aging PT, will discuss how scheduling a home visit and creating a personalized plan that fits your needs, can help you remain independent and injury-free. Learn how small changes can make a big difference – because your home should work for you, not the other way around!
WinCAM Program Recording:
Option 1 – Direct Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRm_S31oQFk
Option 2 – WinCAM YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@officialWinCAM/videos
Search for “Jenks Solo Ager Network Presents Making Your Home Work for You”
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Housing
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Finding the Right Living Situation
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Wendy Tatlock, Care Patrol
https://carepatrol.com/greater-boston-metro-west/
781-496-2600
Program Date and Description:
April 11, 2024: Finding the right living situation can be overwhelming for anyone, especially solo agers. Care Patrol is a free service that provides information and support for anyone exploring their future living options; aging at home, independent living with support services, assisted living, or nursing home. We will discuss levels of care and cost comparisons between these housing situations. Wendy Tatlock, Care Patrol, will offer options to help you plan for your next stage of life.
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Safety and Emergency Preparedness
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Is it Time for a Medical Alert Service?
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Susan DeRosa, Winchester Hospital Medical Alert Program
781-756-4752
Program Date and Description:
June 11, 2024: When you experience a fall, medical issue, or other emergency, every second counts. Knowing assistance is available 24 hours a day can provide peace of mind, especially for people who live alone. Susan DeRosa from Winchester Hospital’s Medical Alert Program will review medical alert services that help you remain safe at home.
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Health Management
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Navigating the Changing Healthcare System
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Dianne Savastano, Healthassist
978-526-0012
Healthassist Newsletter: www.healthassistcorp.com/newsletter/
Program Date and Description:
September 17, 2024: Dealing with a major health issue can be very stressful, particularly for those who don’t have a sufficient support system. Dianne Savastano, private healthcare advisor and founder of Healthassist will share knowledge and tools needed to navigate today’s complex healthcare system. She will discuss strategies that empower individuals to have a more satisfying healthcare experience and make suggestions about where to get additional support.
WinCam Program Recording:
Option 1– direct link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V4gQU6Tbkw&t=13s
Option 2 – WinCAM YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@officialWinCAM/videos Search for “Jenks Solo Ager Network Presents: Navigating the Changing Healthcare System”
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If Only There Were a Geriatrician Next Door: Older Adult ‘Self-Centered’ Care
Dr. Wayne Saltsman, Geriatrician
No longer has a Geriatrician practice seeing patients.
Program Date and Description:
October 17, 2024: Dr. Wayne Saltsman, Geriatrician and advocate for patient-driven healthcare, will share key strategies to maintain a high quality of life as you age and speak about the importance of proactive planning to stay healthy. He will also talk about how to navigate the healthcare system to ensure your voice is heard, and your healthcare choices reflect your personal values and preferences.
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Legal & Financial Matters
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What if you Don’t Have a Healthcare Agent or Power of Attorney?
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Kathy McNair, Esq., Senior Solutions LLC, Elder Law and Estate Planning Attorneys
617-489-5900
kmcnair@seniorsolutionsinfo.com
Aging Allies Program: www.seniorsolutionsinfo.com/agingalone
Solo Allies Website: www.soloallies.com
Program Date and Description:
December 12, 2024: If you are unable to make healthcare, financial or legal decisions for yourself, who will be there to make decisions for you? Kathy L. McNair, Esq., Elder Law Attorney at Senior Solutions Attorneys at Law LLC will discuss how to choose a Health Care Proxy, Power of Attorney, and Trustee, with a focus on what to do when you don’t have someone to appoint in these roles and what happens if these legal documents are not in place or if agents are not able to serve. Resources will be shared, including the Aging Allies and Safety Net programs, and the Solo Allies website, providing a directory of professional services.
WinCam Program Recording:
Option 1 – Direct link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6l7QJYiDdU
Option 2 – WinCam YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@officialWinCAM/videos
Search for: “Jenks Center Presents: What if you Don’t Have a Healthcare Agent or Power of Attorney?”
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Networks of Support
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Café Solo
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Program Date and Description:
February 26, 2025: Café Solo: A Mid-Winter Reconnect
Hosted by the Solo Ager Network. Solo Agers are invited to join us for a warm Winter welcoming!
Take a break from the cold winter doldrums, tap into the Jenks, and join us for coffee, refreshments AND entertainment.
Let’s make the winter season brighter by bringing together Solo Agers for connection, conversation and community.
YouTube Links:
Navigating the Changing Healthcare System
Dianne Savastano, Founder and Principal at HealthAssist
September 17, 2024
WinCam Video Direct Link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V4gQU6Tbkw
What if you Don’t Have a Healthcare Agent or Power of Attorney?
Kathy McNair, Elder Law and Estate Planning at Senior Solutions LLC
December 12, 2024
WinCAM Video Direct link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6l7QJYiDdU
