JULY ARTICLE: July is Disability Pride Month!
Disability Pride Month, celebrated every July, commemorates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) legislated in July 1990 to extend civil rights protections to people with disabilities. It is a time to celebrate people with disabilities and honor the history and achievements of the disability community.
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) supports the independence of older adults and people with disabilities to thrive in their own homes and in the community.
Maintaining Independence with In-Home & Community-Based Services
OCES is the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in the southeastern part of Massachusetts. Our agency offers significant life-supporting care which enables individuals to live within the community as independently as possible for as long as possible while preserving dignity and quality of life.
Below are just a few ways that OCES helps people with disabilities and older adults maintain their independence:
Nutrition Services.
OCES offers home delivered meals (“Meals on Wheels”) to people who are unable to shop for groceries or prepare their own meals. A delicious, nutritious meal is delivered to their homes Monday through Friday. The OCES monthly menu is planned by a registered dietitian and includes medically tailored meals, with a doctor’s approval, and meals for those who have special diets. Having daily meals delivered provides an essential connection to the community while also serving as a safety check.
Home-based Care Services
Home-based care, otherwise known as “Homecare Services” help people remain safe and independent at home by helping them accomplish activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, light housekeeping, assistance with laundry, grocery shopping and light meal preparation. Whether for short-term or ongoing needs, homecare encompasses a wide range of supports that may be provided in an individual’s own home, in elder housing or private apartment.
Homecare options include but are not limited to care management, personal care, homemaking, and transition support upon discharge from hospital or nursing facility. Transportation coordination for medical appointments and procedures is also part of homecare services. In addition to Nutrition and Homecare Services, OCES offers Adult Family Care, Family Caregiver Support, Behavioral Health, Options Counseling and Community Housing programs.
Looking for specific information or assistance? Unsure whom to contact with questions? OCES’ Information and Referral Department (I&R) is the entry point to help guide individuals through their options. Our team will gather information, assess needs, and review services that are available.
Community Connections
There are many older adults and people with disabilities who live alone and continue to live independently in the community. Staying engaged and connected is important when it comes to maintaining well-being and independence. Keeping in touch with friends, family and neighbors is important. Engaging in activities and attending community events are opportunities for socializing that also provide a sense of belonging.
OCES is dedicated to removing barriers and creating equity for all by empowering individuals and communities to thrive, age in place, and reach their highest potential. OCES supports everyone without exception!
If you need assistance, contact OCES at 508-584-1561.
Recent News
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
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) announced its participation in the 20th annual March for Meals Campaign. The month of March was recognized nationwide as the time when local Meals on Wheels programs come together to raise awareness and help demonstrate the importance of this vital program.
Read more … "March for Meals" highlights the importance of the Nutrition Program for older adults
by Kerry Zingaro
MARCH ARTICLE: Honoring Women in Social Work
March is both Women’s History Month and Social Work Month! In recognition of both, we’re honoring dedicated women in the social work profession
by Kerry Zingaro
OCES is Participating in the March for Meals Campaign - Nutrition Program in Urgent Need of Support
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in greater Plymouth County is participating in the March for Meals campaign, a national effort to raise awareness about senior hunger and the importance of nutrition services.
by Kerry Zingaro
OCES Employees Honored with Milestone Awards
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) honored 24 staff members, including their Chief Executive Officer Nicole Long, with milestone awards during their annual staff meeting in January.
by Kerry Zingaro
FEBRUARY ARTICLE: Random Acts of Kindness
February is a month that celebrates care and compassion, highlighted by Valentine’s Day on February 14 and National Random Acts of Kindness Day on February 17.
by Kerry Zingaro
JANUARY ARTICLE: MLK National Day of Service
Every year on the third Monday of January, 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.
by Kerry Zingaro
OCES Staff Supports Families in Need with Donations to Three Organizations
Staff at Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, are supporting those in need of assistance by providing food, gifts and other essential items during the holiday season.
Read more … OCES Staff Supports Families in Need with Donations to Three Organizations
by Kerry Zingaro
10 Local Caregivers Honored During National Family Caregivers Month
Ten local caregivers were honored with Caregiver Appreciation Awards at a special luncheon acknowledging National Family Caregivers Month in November. The luncheon was held at Fireside Grille in Middleboro, MA.
Read more … 10 Local Caregivers Honored During National Family Caregivers Month
by Kerry Zingaro
Raising Funds for Behavioral Health and Wellness Programs - Old Colony Elder Services Kicks Off #GivingTuesday Campaign
Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest non-profit provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, kicks off this year’s #GivingTuesday campaign with a goal of raising $20,000 for their Behavioral Health and Wellness programs.
