December ARTICLE: Loss/Grief. How to stay busy, importance of not being alone at the holidays
Managing Stress & Feelings of Loneliness During the Holidays
The holidays can be a very stressful time of year. For some, it can be a time of reflection of “days gone by”, which can bring about feelings of loneliness or sadness. Older adults and individuals who are grieving may be particularly vulnerable to these feelings. The holidays may become overwhelming. As a result, some may withdraw and avoid social interaction. Although avoidance is the path of least resistance, it’s important to maintain social connections.
The Importance of Connecting with others
Reaching out for support and companionship is key. Even if distance or circumstance separates you from family members and friends, try to maintain those connections. Reach out by telephone, video call, email, text or social media. Setting a date to meet in person in the near future gives you something to look forward to and creates a positive plan.
There are several ways to connect with others in your community. Many older adults visit the senior center or Council on Aging (COA) to connect with peers. Consider taking a class or participating in the variety of activities and events that are offered onsite. Need transportation assistance in getting there? Contact the COA and inquire about their transportation options.
OCES offers Community Dining meals Monday through Friday at local COAs and housing sites; these provide opportunities to socialize in addition to nutritious noontime meals.
Older adults who are homebound and unable to attend a Community Dining meal site may arrange to receive "Meals on Wheels" delivered to their home. Home-delivered meals provide an important connection to the community while also serving as a safety check.
Get Involved
Take on a new hobby or join a club or group that interests you. Attend a presentation at the public library, the local nature center, or art center such as genealogy, history, modern art and more. From exercise classes to book clubs and presentations on a wide variety of topics --genealogy, history, nature, modern art and more-- there are plenty of learning opportunities and ways to remain engaged.
Helping others is another way to improve your spirits and prevent feelings of loneliness or unhappiness. Checking in on a homebound neighbor, helping at the local community center, food pantry, animal shelter, OCES, or other nonprofit organization are all great ways of volunteering. Through volunteering, you’ll help others as well as meet new people and feel more connected to your community.
Recent News
APRIL ARTICLE: April is National Volunteer Month
Full Article APRIL ARTICLE: April is National Volunteer Month
Community Options Ep. 307 - National Volunteer Month
In April, we celebrate National Volunteer Month, a time to recognize and honor the countless individuals who generously donate their time, skills, and energy to make a lasting impact in their communities. At Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), we proudly acknowledge the dedication of our volunteers who work tirelessly to support older adults, individuals with disabilities, and others across the 23 communities we serve.
We discussed our Volunteer programs with:
- Cidalia America, Volunteer Coordinator at OCES
- Mike Pauley, OCES Volunteer
Full Article Community Options Ep. 307 - National Volunteer Month
MARCH ARTICLE: Social Work: Making A Positive Difference
During March, we celebrate Social Work Month and the many contributions of social workers.
Social workers are dedicated to helping people and communities thrive. Social workers also help people of all ages cope with life’s challenges. A major part of a social worker’s job is advocacy. Social workers stand up for equal rights of all people and work to ensure that services are provided to all who need them.
Full Article MARCH ARTICLE: Social Work: Making A Positive Difference
Old Colony Elder Services Launches Urgent Campaign for Essential Funding to Support Vital Programs
OCES a designated Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) and the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has kicked off a campaign to raise awareness for essential funding needed to support vital programs including Home Care Services.
Old Colony Elder Services Honors Employees with Milestone Awards
OCES the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, honored staff members with annual milestone awards. On November 20, 2024, a special luncheon was held at Hotel 1620 in Plymouth Harbor, where thirty-three staff members from OCES' Brockton and Plymouth offices received longevity awards.
Full Article Old Colony Elder Services Honors Employees with Milestone Awards
FEBRUARY ARTICLE: Taking Care of Your Heart
Did you know? Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
February is American Heart Month, a time to bring awareness to heart disease and lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk for this serious disease.
JANUARY ARTICLE: Serving Others and Your Community as a Volunteer. Join the Movement on Martin Luther King, Jr., National Day of Service
On January 20th, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights leader and activist. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day is a special holiday designated as an official National Day of Service that encourages volunteerism.
Old Colony Elder Services Names New Senior Care Options & One Care Plans Quality Manager
Crystal Carvalho, LSW, a Berkley, MA resident, has been promoted to Senior Care Options & One Care Plan Quality Manager at Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) in Brockton, MA.
OCES Employees Support Individuals and Families this Holiday Season with Donations to Father Bill’s and My Brother’s Keeper
Staff at Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) in Brockton and Plymouth are helping support those in need of assistance by providing gifts, grocery gift cards, and essential items this holiday season.
Brockton Resident Honored with 2024 IMPACT Award
Richard J. (Rick) Alvarnaz recently received the 2024 IMPACT Award. Previously from Raynham, and now a Brockton resident, Rick has been a staff member of Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) for 25 years.
Full Article Brockton Resident Honored with 2024 IMPACT Award
