Boston Senior Home Care Celebrates 50 Years

Boston Senior Home Care Celebrates 50 Years with Gala

AG Campbell and Karen Chen were presented awards and Patricia Lynch was remembered for her lasting legacy.

BOSTON (Oct. 18, 2024) – State leaders and community advocates gathered as Boston Senior Home Care celebrated 50 years of service to older adults, people with disabilities and their caregivers at the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston on October 17, 2024.

The gala celebrated BSHC’s efforts to expand access to home and community-based services and underscored the organization’s vision to deepen its partnerships with community organizations and continue to champion policies that ensure everyone has the support they need to live with dignity and independence. “This year’s gala is a particularly special milestone, and we are thrilled to bring together people from so many sectors who embody our mission in their work and strive to make Massachusetts more inclusive and equitable,” said BSHC CEO Margaret Hogan, “We have come so far but there is always more work ahead.”

State Rep. Aaron Michlewitz presented Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell with the Elder Justice Advocacy Award for her leadership in establishing initiatives that protect older adults. State Sen. Lydia Edwards presented Karen Chen, Executive Director of the Chinese Progressive Association, with the Community Advocacy Award for her grassroots work empowering Boston’s Chinese American community. The organization also remembered lawyer and lobbyist Patricia A. Lynch, a beloved advocate for people with mental illness and substance use disorder.  State Rep. and Speaker Pro Tempore Kate Hogan and Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata introduced the Patricia A. Lynch Excellence in Public Service Award, which was presented posthumously following Lynch’s passing in July.

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A Tribute to Older Workers 

March has no shortage of holidays and observances, from the well-known Saint Patrick’s Day to the recognition of Social Work Month.  However, one observance that is gaining significance is National Older Workers Week, which is celebrated annually during the second week of March.

While the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 provides legal protection against discrimination for workers aged 40 and above, older workers continue to face challenges due to prevailing perceptions about age affecting performance, productivity, and skills.  National Older Workers Week is designed to showcase the valuable contributions that older adults bring to the workforce.

Today, reaching the age of 65 no longer signifies retirement for many people. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more people over age 65 are staying in the workforce longer than ever before. But, what motivates them to do so?

According to older workers themselves, the reasons are diverse. Many say that they enjoy their work, want to continue to learn new things and value social engagement. For them, work is not merely a means of financial support but a source of enrichment and fulfillment.

Employers also see the importance of hiring and retaining older workers because they promote an inclusive work culture that brings together a range of ideas and perspectives. Research shows that age diversity improves productivity and morale, sparks innovation, and helps reduce turnover.

At Boston Senior Home Care, we recognize and value the contributions of all employees, regardless of age. Our workforce comprises individuals from diverse age groups, cultural backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities, representing the communities we serve. In fact, employees over the age of 50 represent approximately one-third of our total staff. 

We celebrate and embrace the unique attributes of all our employees for a workforce that is equitable, inclusive, and respectful. Working together in this rich environment helps us understand the needs of those we serve and is an incredibly powerful way to build trust in the community. If you are interested in learning more about job opportunities at Boston Senior Home Care, visit our website HERE.

As we commemorate National Older Workers Week, let us reaffirm our appreciation for the invaluable contributions of older workers and strive towards creating workplaces that embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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Home care services

Aging in Place: Strategies to remain independent at home

Maintaining independence at home as we get older is called “aging in place.” Most older adults prefer to stay close to family and friends and where they are familiar for as long as possible. However, doing so requires careful consideration, thoughtful decision-making, and planning. The best time to develop a plan to age in place is before in-home services and supports are needed.

Let’s look at a few helpful tips to help you get started.

  1. Take a good assessment of your home to ensure it is safe, accessible, and easy to maneuver around. Remove potential fall hazards such as electrical cords and scatter rugs. Move everyday items such as clothing, dishes, food, and other necessities within easy reach. Use nonslip mats in your bath or shower and have grab bars installed to lessen your chances of a fall.
  2. Lighten up your home by placing night lights in your bathroom, bedroom, and hallways. Place a lamp beside your bed and a flashlight within easy reach for use in a nighttime emergency. Be sure to keep your cell phone handy as well.
  3. Clear all entrances, exits, and stairways of clutter and debris and make sure they are also well-lit. Be especially mindful in winter, when snow and ice can accumulate on walkways and stairways making walking hazardous.  
  4. Maintain a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine. It’s never too late to add more fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to your diet.  Consider an exercise plan tailored to older adults or begin a walking routine to maintain your strength and prevent the loss of muscle mass.
  5. Be proactive with your physical and mental health. Maintain regular checkups with your doctor to detect and address any health issues. Try to reduce stress and engage in social activities you enjoy.
  6. Check out the resources in your community. Many communities offer services such as free transportation to doctor visits, social events, and communal meals.
  7. Accept help when you need it. It can be hard to give up doing everything on your own. Accepting help to age in place is a sign of wisdom and strength.   

If you or your loved one is age 60 or older, you may qualify for Home Care services through the Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) network. Case managers at the 26 ASAPs across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts can work with you on developing a care plan to ensure your independence, safety, and quality of life at home.

To learn more, click on the organizations below:

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Embracing the Holiday Season: Cherishing Time with Loved Ones

As we enter the final months of the year, the upcoming holiday season brings about a sense of gratitude and reflection. It’s a time to forge lasting memories, cherish moments spent with others, and celebrate longstanding traditions. In this blog post, we explore ways to spend quality time with loved ones during the holidays.

Here are five simple strategies to create sincere and heartfelt holiday memories with family and friends:

  1. Set the mood
    Play your favorite holiday tunes. Sharing music with others can spark happy memories and help relieve stress. There’s nothing like a classic holiday tune coming on to lift your spirits.  
  2. Decorate together
    Decorating is an excellent opportunity to spend quality time with others. If the person you’re caring for has treasured holiday decorations, be sure to use them. Discuss each piece as you take it out of storage and ask where they prefer certain decorations to be placed. Prioritize their favorite items by putting them where they can be seen and appreciated the most. Just be sure to decorate in a way that doesn’t pose any potential safety hazards. 
  3. Prioritize holiday favorites
    Ask what traditions or treats they look forward to the most each holiday season and focus on making those things happen to the best of your ability. Sharing special moments can bring a sense of contentment and cheerfulness into your life and can be a source of comfort. 
  4. Reminisce
    Encourage your loved one to tell stories of the past. Sharing memories with others can provide an opportunity for laughter and a feeling of being connected. Another great way to reminisce is to go through photo albums and talk about the years gone by.
  5. Simplify holiday meals
    Reducing your workload on the day of holiday events can help you and your loved ones appreciate these gatherings more. Instead of making a large meal from scratch, focus on preparing only a few favorite recipes and using premade dishes to round out the meal. It can also help to split up the grocery shopping and cooking among other family members and guests.

By embracing the holiday season, and spending quality time with loved ones, you can start the new year with a renewed sense of joy and purpose. Remember, Boston Senior Home Care’s Caregiver Solutions program is available to support you every step of the way. For more information and to enroll in the program, click HERE. 

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BOSTON (Oct. 16, 2023) – In an evening of community and camaraderie, Boston Senior Home Care celebrated the remarkable achievements of state Rep. Daniel J. Hunt and Health Care For All Executive Director Amy Rosenthal at its annual Forever at Home Fundraising Gala.

Rep. Hunt, a lifelong resident of Dorchester and an unwavering advocate for the community, received the Legislative Advocacy Award. Boston Senior Home Care recognized his steadfast commitment to creating affordable housing, his unwavering support for older adults, and his dedication to fostering economic growth within the community.

“Rep. Hunt’s prestigious nine-year political career has been defined by his advocacy for older adults,” said Margaret Hogan, CEO of Boston Senior Home Care. “He has tirelessly secured funding for services that allow older adults to age in the comfort of their communities, where they wish to be. He has also championed organizations supporting individuals with physical and developmental challenges, advocating for crucial funding for adult day care programs and other essential support initiatives.”

Rosenthal’s tireless commitment to community health and welfare has clearly left an indelible mark. She received the Community Advocacy Award during the gala.

“Amy’s dedication to the cause of health care access for all is truly exceptional,” said Margaret Hogan, CEO of Boston Senior Home Care. “Amy has been a beacon of hope for those in our community who are most vulnerable. Her passion for creating equitable health care access has made a meaningful impact in the lives of countless Massachusetts residents.”

Hogan emphasized that both honorees exemplify the values of Boston Senior Home Care, which has been dedicated to supporting older adults, individuals with disabilities, and families for almost five decades.

“Our mission is to empower individuals and caregivers to lead better lives, and Amy and Rep. Hunt perfectly embody these values through their work,” said Hogan.

The event, held at the Omni Parker House in Downtown Boston on Oct. 12 and hosted by the award-winning TV news journalist Jorge Quiroga, was a resounding success, and set the stage for an even larger event next year. Attendees left inspired and appreciative of the incredible service both awardees have provided to the community.

About Boston Senior Home Care

Boston Senior Home Care (BSHC) is a private, nonprofit human services agency based in Boston. Since 1974, it has been dedicated to making a difference in the communities it serves by connecting older adults, individuals with disabilities, and families with social services and resources to live safely and independently in their homes and communities. BSHC also supports caregivers in their unique caregiving journeys, empowering them to provide exceptional care while taking care of their own needs and well-being. For more information, visit bshcinfo.org.

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Take steps to prevent falls

For an older adult, falls can be serious and threaten their ability to remain independent. However, falls do not have to be an inevitable part of aging. There are ways for you and your loved ones to prevent falls. In recognition of Falls Prevention Awareness Week (Sept 18-22), here are four things the CDC recommends to help prevent you or your loved ones from experiencing falls:  

1. Talk to your Doctor

  • Ask your doctor or healthcare provider to evaluate your risk of falling.
  • Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines for any side effects that may cause dizziness or sleepiness.
  • Tell a provider right away if you fall, worry about falling, or feel unsteady.

2. Do Strength and Balance Exercises

  • Do exercises that make your legs, and core stronger and improve your balance. Ask your doctor about the best exercise program for you.

3. Have Your Eyes and Feet Checked

  • Have your eyes checked by a doctor annually. Get a pair of glasses with only your distance prescription for activities such as walking.
  • Have your healthcare provider check your feet once a year. Discuss proper footwear and ask whether seeing a foot specialist is advised.

4. Make Your Home Safer

  • Get rid of trip hazards (i.e., throw rugs, electrical cords, pet toys).
  • Add grab bars inside your shower or bath and next to the toilet.
  • Put railings on both sides of the stairs.
  • Make sure your home is well-lit.
  • Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on bathroom floors.
  • Wear well-fitting shoes around the house.

Stay healthy and independent in your community by reducing your risk of falling. One quick and simple way to assess your risk is by using the National Council on Aging’s (NCOA) Falls Free CheckUp tool. On top of their risk assessment tool, the NCOA provides a useful infographic that you can print and share with others.

In addition to these beneficial tactics, Boston Senior Home Care offers a variety of health and wellness programs and healthy aging workshops that empower individuals to take charge of their health by learning self-care techniques and ways to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

To learn more about the programs we offer, click here.

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Staying Safe in the Summer Heat

Hot weather can be dangerous and too much heat is not safe for anyone. However, for older adults, people with disabilities, and those with chronic health conditions, the thermometer doesn’t have to hit 100 degrees to cause heat stress or even heat stroke.

Tips for Staying Cool

Caregivers can help prevent a heat-related emergency by keeping a loved one cool, watching for signs of heat stress, and following these tips for dealing with the summer heat:

  • Wear cool clothing. Make sure to dress in light-weight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, preferably of natural fabrics like cotton.
  • Keep cool. If you don’t have air conditioning, the City of Boston opens public cooling centers during periods of extreme heat.
  • Cover windows. During the day, draw the curtains on all windows that are in direct sunlight. Open windows at night and use fans to circulate cooler air.
  • Avoid direct sun and stay indoors during the hottest hours, 11 AM to 4 PM. When outdoors, make sure it’s during cooler hours and that there is shade or cover available.
  • Eliminate or limit physical activity. If a physician approves light exercise such as walking and movement exercises, limit it to short periods during cooler hours. Eliminate entirely on very hot days.
  • Drink plenty of fluids. Give the person in your care plenty of water even if they say they’re not thirsty. Be careful with caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea or energy drinks.
  • Monitor medications. Find out if the person’s medications increase his or her risk for heat stress. Be sure to ask a physician about all the medications being taken, including over-the-counter items.
  • Be alert! Remember that a cognitively-impaired person may not be able to tell you when they’re feeling hot or ill. Also, older adults tend to feel colder than younger people so they may not sense the danger of hotter weather.

Signs of Heat-Related Illness

If you are caring for an older adult or person with a disability, it’s important to learn the signs of heat-related problems. Seek medical assistance for any of the following signs and, if you suspect heat stroke, call 911.

  • Headache, nausea, and fatigue are common signs of heat stress.
  • Heat syncope can include sudden dizziness, pale, sweaty-looking skin that is moist and cool to the touch, weakened pulse, and rapid heart rate.
  • Heat exhaustion can be a warning that the body is getting too hot. Watch for thirst, giddiness, weakness, lack of coordination, nausea, and profuse sweating. Urination decreases and the person may vomit.
  • Heat stroke can be life-threatening. Body temperature rises above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and the person may become confused, combative, behave bizarrely, feel faint, and stagger. Pulse is rapid. Skin is dry, flushed and may feel hot. Lack of sweating. Breathing may be fast and shallow. Pupils may widen or dilate.

Important Points to Remember

Older people, people with disabilities, and those with chronic health conditions can have a difficult time dealing with heat and humidity. The temperature inside or outside does not have to be high to put them at risk for a heat-related illness.

Headache, confusion, dizziness, or nausea could be a sign of a heat-related illness. Go to the doctor or to an emergency room to find out if treatment is needed.

To keep heat-related illnesses from becoming a dangerous heat stroke, remember to:

  • Get out of the sun and into a cool place, ideally air-conditioned.
  • Drink fluids but avoid alcohol and caffeine.
  • Shower, bathe, or dab off with cool water.
  • Lie down in a cool, dark place and rest.

Signing up for Alert Boston is a great way for caregivers and older adults to be notified in the event of an emergency. If the City of Boston declares an extreme heat event, you will receive a direct message via text, call, or email. For more information on resources, call 3-1-1 or visit boston.gov/heat.

For additional information on keeping your loved one safe, please feel free to contact Boston Senior Home Care. Our Caregiver Advisors will connect you with the resources and expertise you need to navigate your caregiving journey.

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Planning ahead can help caregivers take a summer vacation

It’s finally summer! The days are getting longer and warmer; for many, thoughts turn to a vacation. Unpaid family caregivers often dream of relaxing and refreshing during the summer months. But a few days away with friends and family to recharge and enjoy summer fun seems impossible when you have so much caregiving responsibility.

Being a caregiver to a friend or family member can be incredibly fulfilling. But it also has challenges. That’s why realizing and accepting the physical and mental health benefits of taking a break is essential – especially during New England’s lovely summer weather. Whether it’s an overnight trip or a few restful days at the beach, don’t discount the power of self-care. Taking a vacation is possible. It just requires more advanced planning.

The first step in planning is determining who will fill in for you. One option is to call upon a sibling, a relative, or a close family friend to help so your loved one can stay in their familiar surroundings while you are away. Ask someone who can handle an emergency and is as vested in your loved one’s care as you are. It’s important to give them a detailed list of medications and their schedules, typical daily routines, diet, care instructions, and the phone numbers of physicians and others to call in case of an emergency. Encourage and request that friends and neighbors drop in for a visit while you are away.

If your loved one does not need 24-hour care or supervision, adult day care programs are an option. They offer social activities, meals and snacks, entertainment, and mental stimulation.  Many are open Monday-Friday, and some offer transportation to and from their locations. 

Another option is respite care. Many assisted living and skilled nursing facilities offer short-term respite stays for older adults so caregivers can take a vacation or deal with a family emergency. During a short-term respite stay, your loved one typically receives personalized care, daily activities, including three meals a day, medication management, and opportunities to socialize with others. Short-term respite stays are typically five or more days.

Not sure which option is best for you?  We can connect you with services and supports based on your specific caregiving needs and preferences, including a respite care stipend, available respite care, or adult day care programs. 

To learn more, please contact us at 617-292-6211 or visit us at bshcinfo.org/caregiver to be connected with one of our caregiver advisors for an assessment of your caregiving needs.

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LGBTQIA+ Caregiving

Did you know that many caregivers may not realize they’re caregivers? Generally, caregivers slip into this role without any formalized training or resources. In recognition of Pride Month, we’ve created this LGBTQIA+ caregiving guide as a resource to support caregivers who identify as LGBTQIA+, as well as those who are caring for a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.

If you or your loved one identifies as LGBTQIA+, Boston Senior Home Care is here to support you. We recognize that past or present experiences may lead many LGBTQIA+ older adults to feel distrustful of medical and social service providers. In fact, 78% of LGBTQIA+ older adults entering a long-term care system keep their sexual orientation or gender identity private. Currently, there are states in the U.S. passing laws to limit the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals.  Service providers and caregivers who are not part of the LGBTQIA+ community need to be mindful of the discrimination this community has faced and continues to face.

LGBTQIA+ people are more likely to become caregivers than heterosexual cisgender people. LGBTQIA+ older adults are twice as likely to be single and live alone, and four times less likely to have children. Peer-to-peer caregiving is common within this community.

Whatever your caregiving journey looks like, having a framework to help guide you will make the process more manageable. These five steps will help you navigate your role.

1. Have a Conversation

Before entering into a caregiving role, it’s a good idea to ask about being a part of your loved one’s caregiving team. Waiting to find out about your loved one’s preferences, wishes, or finances until a crisis occurs can lead to hastily-made decisions. But, talking about it ahead of time will make navigating your caregiving journey easier. Even if you’re already in the middle of caregiving, it’s not too late to start a conversation with your loved one about their wishes.

When you do have that conversation, it’s important to also discuss finances. LGBTQIA+ adults face disparities in economic wellbeing when compared with their heterosexual cisgender peers. While money can be a sensitive subject, it’s often at the center of many decisions you’ll make with your loved one about housing, healthcare, and other expenses.

2. Make a Plan

No matter where you are in your caregiving journey, it’s important to have a plan to stay focused on what’s best for your loved one and for you. If you are not your loved one’s legal spouse or next of kin, you will likely need to put legal documents in place to carry out parts of that plan.

When caring for an LGBTQIA+ loved one, it is important to realize that anti-LGBTQIA+ attitudes may exist within a family. A carefully drafted set of legal documents can be essential and an LGBTQIA+ affirming lawyer can be an invaluable resource. It is important to hash out these details before an emergency arises so that your loved one can voice and verify their wishes.

The most effective caregiving plans are made with the care recipient at the center of the discussion. The plan doesn’t have to be extensive or elaborate. Nobody can foresee every detail or scenario. However, the plan should include immediate needs as well as broader plans for the future.

3. Form a Team

Don’t try to do it alone. You will be more effective if you can find others who are willing to help you – whether they’re friends, neighbors, or professional service providers. While other family members are possible sources of support, think about colleagues, clubs, or others as possible resources too.

4. Care for Yourself

As a caregiver, it’s easy to ignore your own needs. Maintaining your health and wellbeing is essential when it comes to caring for others. It’s just as important to plan for self-care as it is to create a plan of care for others. Try to be honest with yourself, and understand your capacity for helping others in a caregiving role.

If you’re already in the middle of your caregiving journey, you may find comfort in knowing that other caregivers are experiencing the same ups and downs as you. Talking to them may give you ideas about strategies and resources available to ease your stress. Consider finding a local support group, like Boston Senior Home Care’s Caregiver Support Group. Online support groups can be a good way to find a community of caregivers who may be having similar experiences.

5. Find Formal Supports

More likely than not, challenges may arise during your caregiving experience that require additional support. We welcome you to reach out to us. Our caregiver advisors are skilled professionals who can connect you with the services and supports you need to care for your loved one. Ready to get in touch with a Boston Senior Home Care caregiver advisor?

If you are a caregiver in need of guidance or services, Boston Senior Home Care’s Caregiver Solution program is here to help. Contact us today at 617-292-6211.

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ARCHANGELS and Boston Senior Home Care awarded a grant to expand caregiver access and inclusivity of respite care.

The grant supports Any Care Counts, a novel approach to caregiver engagement and service delivery.

BOSTON, MA – June 1, 2023 – ARCHANGELS, a women-owned Massachusetts company, and Boston Senior Home Care, a nonprofit human services organization, received a $649,075 grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS). Funds will be used to implement Any Care Counts – Massachusetts, an innovative initiative designed to increase recognition and support of unpaid caregivers in the Commonwealth. The ARCHANGELS platform provides the 43 percent of adults who are unpaid caregivers with access to the Caregiver Intensity Index™, an online tool that evaluates the drivers of intensity that many caregivers experience daily, which can affect their mental health and wellbeing. The resulting Caregiver Intensity Score acknowledges the challenges faced by unpaid caregivers and helps them navigate the many resources available that can have a positive impact on their caregiving journey, such as respite services offered through Boston Senior Home Care’s Caregiver Solutions program. 

“Learning we were awarded this visionary grant — alongside the extraordinary team of rock stars at Boston Senior Home Care — was one of those moments that made us want to jump around in glee. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has been leading the way in supporting the often-invisible population of unpaid caregivers serving as the backbone of our communities. Thanks to the EOHHS, we can strengthen awareness, validation, and access to these extraordinary caregivers in data-driven ways that inform state-wide efforts and ongoing support,” said Alexandra Drane, co-founder of ARCHANGELS.

“We are extremely grateful to the EOHHS for their generosity in providing this grant opportunity. And we look forward to working in partnership with ARCHANGELS to expand access and enhance the resources currently offered through our existing caregiver program,” said Meg Hogan, Chief Executive Officer of Boston Senior Home Care. “Our goal is to identify more caregivers in need of respite services and ensure they have access to the resources and supports they need in a culturally inclusive manner.”

In a recent report to Congress, the RAISE Family Caregiving Advisory Council identified the need for an information campaign designed to “bring family caregiving out of the shadows and make it a dinner table conversation in every home”. Any Care Counts will address this need through an extensive social media campaign to increase awareness of the program among caregivers throughout Greater Boston. “Often, caregivers don’t recognize themselves as being caregivers nor do they know how to reach out for support,” said Alicia Gomez, Chief Operations Officer of Boston Senior Home Care.

“We know that 79 percent of caregivers change their answer from ‘I’m not a caregiver’ to ‘I am a caregiver’ after getting their Caregiver Intensity Score,” said Drane. “Seeing ourselves in this role is an ‘aha’ moment that explains why we feel the intensity we do as we care for others, gives us the language to explain that feeling to others, and connects us to things that can help. The result of this partnership will also provide a data-driven roadmap that can extend the impact of these learnings across the state.”

“This project will help raise awareness of the many services available free of charge to caregivers,” said Gomez. “Boston Senior Home Care will also use the Caregiver Intensity Score data to tailor counseling, support, and resources to individual caregivers’ evolving needs.”

About ARCHANGELS

ARCHANGELS is a women-owned, Massachusetts-based company shamelessly hustling to make change happen for unpaid caregivers across the nation. Their omnichannel data-driven platform engages caregivers wherever they are — even those who do not see themselves in the role. It not only validates their experience but navigates them to existing resources — yet often underutilized due to lack of awareness — including respite services of all types. ARCHANGELS works with states, employers, healthcare providers, and payers to create an impact for caregivers in their communities. For more information, visit www.archangels.me.

About Boston Senior Home Care

Boston Senior Home Care is a private, nonprofit human services agency dedicated to ensuring that

older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers have equitable access to social services and supports, and independent living resources. Since 1974, we have provided in-home care and community-based services that enable low-income older adults and people with disabilities to live in their place of choice for as long as possible. Boston Senior Home Care is one of Boston’s Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs), serving the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Charlestown, Chinatown, Dorchester, Downtown Boston, East Boston, Mattapan, North End, South Boston, and West End. For more information, visit www.bshcinfo.org.

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