SEPTEMBER ARTICLE: Grandparents Day
Every year, on the first Sunday after Labor Day, we celebrate Grandparents Day! It is a special day to honor and connect with grandparents and pay tribute to them for their involvement in our lives.
Grandparents often play a key role in supporting families, including grandchildren. Some grandparents live far but maintain close bonds through phone calls, video chats, and visits when they can. Others live nearby and are actively caring for their grandchildren. In some families, grandparents step in as primary caregivers, raising their grandchildren in their own homes.
The number of grandparents raising grandchildren is on the rise. While this role can be deeply rewarding- offering grandchildren stability, love, and a strong family connection- it also comes with significant adjustments. Grandparents often find themselves once again managing daily responsibilities such as homework, meals, sports, financial obligations, and busy schedules.
As a new school year approaches, here are a few tips for grandparents to help transition routines with grandchildren:
Calendar collaboration. Take time to review your schedule with your grandchildren’s schedule and make notes on your calendar(s). A large, easy to read wall calendar in a central space in the home will help everyone stay on track. It may be helpful to keep a calendar on your device so you can make updates when you are away from home. You can also set alerts to remind you about each event so you can arrive on time. Calendars are a critical tool when it comes to after school pick-up, school project due dates, sports, dance recitals, medical appointments and much more.
Keep keys and other necessary items in a designated spot. Each day can seem busier than the previous day, especially for grandparents raising grandchildren. From driving grandchildren to and from school, and to and from activities, grandparents often take on many daily responsibilities. Grandparents are “on the clock” as soon as the day begins. The night before, make a habit of putting your keys, wallet, water bottles, shoes, coat and any other items that you’ll need the next day in one place. If your grandchildren live with you, take the same steps with each grandchild and help them get everything ready and in place the night before. This can be a game-changer!
Establish routines. For grandparents raising grandchildren, establishing a routine and a schedule sets expectations for everyone in the household. Grandchildren will know their next step once they arrive after school or activities. Should they immediately finish homework? Or do they get a couple hours of “downtime” to watch their favorite show, play video games, etc. Do they have chores? When is dinner time and bedtime? Having a routine helps factor everything in, keep everyone on track, and keep stress levels to a minimum.
Did you know? Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) has a Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) that empowers grandparents raising grandchildren by providing resources and support to help with caregiving. OCES provides one-on-one support to grandparents and creates a personalized plan outlining available resources appropriate to their caregiving situation.
Learn more about how OCES’ FCSP helps navigate one of life’s challenging but most rewarding jobs by calling 508-584-1561.
Recent News
by Kerry Zingaro
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As we celebrate Independence Day on July 4th, it also reminds us of another meaningful form of independence, one that is deeply valued across all cultures and communities, including the Cape Verdean and Asian communities, where older adults are honored for their wisdom, resilience, and important role within the family. Maintaining independence while aging is not only about remaining at home safely, but also about preserving dignity, cultural connections, and quality of life.
Read more … JULY ARTICLE: Maintaining and Celebrating Independence as We Age
by Kerry Zingaro
Beat the Heat: Find a Cooling Center Near You
As temperatures rise, it's important to take steps to stay safe and prevent heat-related illness. Older adults, young children, and individuals with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable during periods of extreme heat.
To help you stay safe, OCES has provided a list of cooling centers throughout our service area to make it easier to find a location near you. You can also dial 2-1-1 anytime for free assistance in locating the nearest cooling center or other community resources.
by Kerry Zingaro
March Against Elder Abuse in Brockton and Plymouth. Local marches held in June raise awareness of elder abuse.
June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) and to raise awareness, local “March Against Elder Abuse” events will be held in Brockton and Plymouth, MA.
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), in partnership with the Brockton Council on Aging, Plymouth Center for Active Living, Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office, and Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office will hold two FREE one-mile marches to raise awareness of elder abuse in June.
by Kerry Zingaro
Alexandra Strangis of OCES Named “40 Under 40” Honoree
June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) and to raise awareness, local “March Against Elder Abuse” events will be held in Brockton and Plymouth, MA.
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), in partnership with the Brockton Council on Aging, Plymouth Center for Active Living, Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office, and Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office will hold two FREE one-mile marches to raise awareness of elder abuse in June.
Read more … Alexandra Strangis of OCES Named “40 Under 40” Honoree
by Kerry Zingaro
OCES is expanding to serve more and Welcomes New Talent – Expansion to 11 South Shore Towns Drives Job Growth
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by Kerry Zingaro
JUNE ARTICLE: Celebrating Pride Month and Honoring Diversity
June is Pride Month, a time to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, an event that sparked a global movement for the rights and recognition of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) community. Join OCES in remembering this important time in history and in celebrating Pride Month.
Read more … JUNE ARTICLE: Celebrating Pride Month and Honoring Diversity
by Kerry Zingaro
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Read more … Honoring Volunteers - OCES Presents Awards to Local Volunteers at Appreciation Luncheon
by Kerry Zingaro
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by Kerry Zingaro
APRIL ARTICLE: Get Involved. Volunteer on Earth Day during National Volunteer Month
Earth Day, Wednesday April 22, is a day to raise environmental awareness and take action to preserve and protect our planet.
Ensuring clean air, clean water and a healthy environment is essential. Everyone has a role to play and can make a difference. There are many ways to get involved on Earth Day. Attend an event, gain a better understanding about Earth Day and share that knowledge with others.
Read more … APRIL ARTICLE: Get Involved. Volunteer on Earth Day during National Volunteer Month
by Kerry Zingaro
"March for Meals" highlights the importance of the Nutrition Program for older adults
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Read more … "March for Meals" highlights the importance of the Nutrition Program for older adults
