Announcing: The Executive Office of Aging & Independence

The new logo for the Executive Office of Aging & Independence.

In early January, Governor Maura Healey signed legislation to officially rename the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE). The name change reflects the Commonwealth’s goal of avoiding stereotypes and better representing the values of older adults.

The new legislation also replaces outdated wording in state statues, such as:

  • “Elder, elderly” becomes “Older adult”
  • “Handicapped” becomes “Adult with a disability”

The new name and wording come from extensive interviews with Massachusetts residents, who reportedly associate the word “elder” with someone at the end of their life. Renaming the agency and changing the words used to describe older adults empowers older adults at any age to reach out to the agency for aging-related services, helping the administration serve more people. It also helps to reduce stigma around aging.

The preferred acronym for the Executive Office of Aging & Independence is AGE, short for “Aging.”

“We are all aging. Growing older is not one agency’s focus. Across the Administration, policies and programs impact our older population,” said Aging & Independence Secretary Robin Lipson in a press release. “We are excited to work across the Administration to make Massachusetts a better place for residents of all ages to grow up and grow older, together.”

To learn more about the Executive Office of Aging & Independence, read AGE’s press release on their website here.

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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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Home care services

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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