Valentine’s Day for Caregivers: Ways to Celebrate

Valentine’s Day for Caregivers: Ways to Celebrate

An older adult couple celebrating Valentine's Day.

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful time to appreciate and share time with friends and family. If you’re a caregiver looking for ideas to enjoy a fun and memorable Valentine’s Day with your loved ones, read on for six great Valentine’s Day activities.

1) Host a Small Gathering

A small party or gathering could be a great way to bring all of your loved ones together to commemorate the holiday. Invite your friends or family, and celebrate with a movie, brunch, or your favorite group activity.

2) Go out with your loved one

For a more low-key and intimate Valentine’s Day, consider taking your loved one out to your favorite restaurant. With just the two of you, you can better take a pause to reflect on the love that drives you to be a caregiver every day.

3) Take a self-care day

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to reflect inwards and appreciate the hard work you do as a caregiver. If you’ve been feeling stressed recently, consider taking a self-care day to enjoy what makes you relaxed. Some examples of this could be sleeping in, going for a long walk, or booking a spa trip.

4) Enjoy some arts and crafts

Some Valentine’s arts and crafts with your loved one could be a wonderful way to spend the holiday. Consider a peaceful afternoon making some colorful paper festoons to decorate your house, baking and decorating some cookies, or enjoy some relaxing origami together.

5) Send Valentine grams

Let your loved ones know you’re thinking of them this Valentine’s Day by sending a Valentine gram. Whether a quick text message, card, or quick visit, letting your friends and family know you love and appreciate them can be a deeply touching gesture.

6) Discover local Boston Valentine’s Day activities

Looking for a unique and memorable Valentine’s Day? There are plenty of fun activities around Boston in celebration of the day of love.

Here’s a small list of activities happening around the city:

Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to reflect inwards and love and appreciate the hard work you do as a caregiver. Whether you choose to spend the day peacefully recovering or cheerfully celebrating with loved ones, we wish you a happy and heartful Valentine’s Day!

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The Importance of Kinship Caregivers

A grandparent and grandchild playing a game together.

In honor of National Caregivers Day on the 21st of this month, let’s explore a type of caregiver you may not have heard about, kinship caregivers. Though they might be rarer, kinship caregivers play an important role in families.

What Is a Kinship Caregiver?

A kinship caregiver is a caregiver that isn’t directly related to the child they’re caring for. They might be an aunt, uncle, grandparent, or cousin to a child of a relative. Kinship caregivers can also include close family friends, religious community members, or schoolteachers who are like family to the child. Another word for kinship caregivers is “relative caregivers.”

According to data from grandfamilies.org, more than 114,000 children in Massachusetts live in homes where a relative is the head of household. Family members or other kin often step in as caregivers due to circumstances including parental substance use, incarceration, and mental health challenges.

What’s the Difference Between Kinship Caregivers and Family Caregivers?

Another term you might have heard is a “family caregiver.” Though family caregivers can be anyone caring for an older adult or person with a disability or illness, kinship caregivers specifically refer to non-direct relatives caring for a child.

As an example, while a person caring for their aging parent with a disability would be a family caregiver, they wouldn’t be a kinship caregiver. Meanwhile, a godparent caring for a child would be a kinship caregiver, but not a family caregiver. An uncle caring for a nephew with a disability would be both a family caregiver and a kinship caregiver.

Family caregivers and kinship caregivers are equally important. Together, they ensure that no family member is left behind.

Identifying kinship caregivers helps us recognize the unique challenges that might come from being an indirect relative of a care recipient. For example, kinship caregivers might face additional challenges gaining legal custody of a child in their care.

What Supports Are There for Kinship Caregivers?

Are you a kinship caregiver in need of support? Don’t worry – there are plenty of government and local resources available to help you navigate all sorts of caregiving challenges. Let’s take a look at the top three supports for kinship caregivers in Massachusetts.

1) Kinship Navigator

Kinship Navigator is a state-run referral-based support program that assists kinship caregivers in accessing services that support the stability and permanency for children. They act as a point of contact to help kinship caregivers identify their needs and direct them to the appropriate state departments or community resource.

The Kinship Navigator program supports anyone providing kinship care, including:

  • Kinship foster and guardianship parents caring for children involved with the Department of Children and Families (DCF)
  • Guardians of a minor via Juvenile or Probate and Family Court
  • Informal caregiver arrangements and caregiver affidavits

Kinship Navigator can help kinship caregivers find:

  • Financial assistance
  • Food and nutrition assistance
  • School or childcare
  • Mental health and counseling providers
  • MassHealth

Kinship Navigator hosts live drop-in Zoom sessions from 9 AM to 12 PM Mondays through Fridays. To learn more, visit their website here.

2) Child Welfare Information Gateway

The Child Welfare Information Gateway is an information website run by the Children’s Bureau of the government. For new kinship caregivers, their webpage contains many helpful fact sheets on topics such as:

  • Navigating the child welfare system
  • How to collaborate with relatives to promote reunification
  • Background checks
  • Supports for Black kinship caregivers

3) The Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

For kinship caregivers raising grandchildren, the Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren is a government-run resource for Massachusetts residents on issues affecting kinship caregivers.

The Commission provides useful resources to help grandparents find:

  • Experienced legal services
  • Financial tips
  • Support Services

To learn more, visit the Commission’s website here.

4) KINnections Program

Boston Senior Home Care has assumed management of the KINnections program, which serves as a hub for information and resources for kinship caregivers.

Currently, the KINnections Program runs two support groups: one virtual, and one in person. These support groups share resources and recommendations such as:

  • Caregiver resources and information
  • Respite care supports
  • Caregiver education programs

If you’re a kinship caregiver or grandparent raising a grandchild, join our support groups to share experiences, learn about resources, and form lasting bonds. Email [email protected] to learn more or sign up.

There are a lot of resources for kinship caregivers, and it can be confusing to figure out which supports are best for your unique situation. We’re here to help you navigate kinship caregiver supports. Reach out to us at 617-292-6211 to find the best programs, resources, and information to help you and your family thrive.

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Boston Senior Home Care Expands Caregiving
Programs and Supports for Kinship Families

BOSTON (December 16, 2024) – Boston Senior Home Care, a trusted provider of home- and community-based services and supports for older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers in the city of Boston, has expanded its services by continuing the operations of the KINnections program, a hub for information and resources for kinship caregivers, which includes grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives who step in to raise children in their family. Boston Senior Home Care has assumed management of the KINnections program following the strategic decision of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC) to transition the program name after 25 successful years.

“Boston Senior Home Care is honored to continue the important work of the KINnections program,” said Margaret Hogan, Chief Executive Officer of Boston Senior Home Care. “When family members open their hearts and homes to children in need, they deserve all the support we can give. Through our Caregiver Solutions and KINnections programs, we stand beside kinship caregivers every step of the way, helping them nurture the precious bonds that make a family strong.”

As Boston Senior Home Care assumes leadership of the KINnections program, the need for kinship caregiver support continues to grow. According to data from grandfamilies.org, in Massachusetts, more than 114,000 children live in homes where a relative is the head of household. Family members often step in as caregivers due to circumstances including parental substance use, incarceration, and mental health challenges.

Through its Caregiver Solutions Program, Boston Senior Home Care is operating the KINnections program support groups, which are offered through virtual and in-person modalities. These groups provide flexible options for caregivers to connect with peers. Participants can share experiences and resources, find emotional support, and build community with others in similar situations.

“Caregiving enriches lives across all generations, from supporting older adults and people with disabilities to nurturing children within extended families. By welcoming the KINnections program to our services, we’re expanding our ability to meet the diverse needs of kinship families,” said Alicia Gomez, Chief Operations Officer of Boston Senior Home Care. “Our goal is to empower them with the tools, support, and resources they need to continue providing exceptional care while prioritizing their own wellbeing.”

In addition to support groups, the KINnections program also provides:

  • Comprehensive Resources and Assistance – Information on critical services, such as housing, food, transportation, legal aid, and health care
  • Respite Care Supports – Programs to support caregiver respite, including access to community-based after-school programs and camps
  • Caregiver Education Programs – Tailored resources on topics like child development, mental health, and positive parenting strategies

Program support through care captains, resource sharing, and connections will remain the same under Boston Senior Home Care’s management.

“MSPCC is pleased that the important work of KINnections will be in the capable and caring hands of Boston Senior Home Care. Caregivers in the Boston area will be well served by this wonderful and effective organization,” said Nancy Allen-Scannell, Executive Director of MSPCC.

To learn more about the Boston Senior Home Care KINnections program, visit bshcinfo.org.

About Boston Senior Home Care and KINnections:

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 by connecting older adults and individuals with disabilities with social services and resources to live independently. BSHC also provides support and guidance to caregivers by helping them care for their loved ones while focusing on their self-care needs. For more information, visit bshcinfo.org.

About KINnections: The KINnections Program connects grandparents and relatives raising children to a variety of resources, information & activities in their community that support and strengthen families. KINnections provides a comprehensive array of support services. 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.

About the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC): MSPCC’s comprehensive array of programs and services includes child abuse prevention and intervention programs, mental health treatment, and adoptive and foster care support. Services are provided both in the home and through community-based locations across the state of Massachusetts. In addition, MSPCC is dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights and well-being of children and families and advocating for laws on their behalf. See more at www.mspcc.org.

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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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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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Social Workers – A Caring Profession

March is National Social Work Month when we recognize the importance of social workers and the critical role they play in helping improve the lives of others. This year’s theme from the National Association of Social Workers is “Social Work Breaks Barriers,” which focuses on how social workers help individuals, families, and communities overcome personal, economic, and social challenges. Social work is considered a caring profession. Helping others and making the community a better place is a driving force in social work. 

Social Workers Break Down Barriers

Social workers are highly skilled professionals trained to examine and holistically address life’s problems. They elevate and empower people, giving them the ability to cope with personal roadblocks and help them navigate the health and social services network so they can get the resources they need. Social workers can be found in organizations throughout the community including schools, hospitals, clinics, senior centers, child welfare organizations, addiction treatment centers, and community-based organizations like Boston Senior Home Care. 

“A social worker’s role is to help individuals and families achieve their fullest potential, which often requires breaking down economic, social or political barriers to getting them the services they need,” said Susan Tena, MSW, LICSW, Senior Director of Program Development. “They help people overcome challenges by developing interventions or care plans to help them get the services and supports they need. For example, if a family is struggling to afford healthy food, a social worker can help them apply for nutritional assistance, such as SNAP.”

The primary mission of the social work profession is to help meet the basic human needs of all people, with particular attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty. “At Boston Senior Home Care, our social workers are experts at understanding the needs of the culturally diverse and often underserved people we care for,” said Abigail Swanson, LICSW, Caregiver Advisor in the Caregiver Solutions program. “Many of our consumers live in difficult circumstances where emotional suffering and stress are commonplace including our caregiver and home care programs.  Social workers work collaboratively and individually and play a key role in connecting consumers with support services while acting as an advocate and advisor.”  

Connecting caregivers with in-home services and supports to help them care for an aging loved one or family member is a powerful example of how social workers make a difference in people’s lives. For example, they can help arrange for in-home safety modifications such as grab bars to be installed in the home, and arrange for respite care or an adult day health program.

Community-based organizations, such as Boston Senior Home Care, rely on the commitment, expertise, and compassion of social workers who work tirelessly to address the needs of those we serve. During Social Work Month, let’s take time to thank social workers for dedicating their lives to helping people live healthy and fulfilling lives.

If you need services and supports but don’t know where to turn, contact us. We are here to help you!

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