SOCIAL SERVICES
AVAILABLE AT THE MONSON COUNCIL ON AGING
Our staff is available to answer your question on health benefits, information and referral, intervention, seniors at risk and needed counseling. We will be happy to connect you with the appropriate service organization to assist you with your needs and to make life easier and safer. Our goal is to help seniors live in their own homes safely and comfortably for as long as possible.
ALL SERVICES ARE CONFIDENTIAL
ONE-DAY-A-MONTH CLUB
Volunteers provide free minor home repairs for seniors in Monson. Seniors only need to pay for the supplies. Volunteers can change light bulbs in a ceiling fixture, repair a light switch, install bathtub security handles, or do painting or other home repair work that can be completed in one day. Call the Center, 267-4121, for the names of volunteers.
FOOD STAMPS
The Monson Council on Aging provides help in completing and submitting the application for residents of all ages. Call Health & Human Services Coordinator, Elizabeth Faichney at 267-4121.
FUEL ASSISTANCE
The Monson Council on Aging provides help in completing and submitting the application for residents of all ages. Receipt of Fuel Assistance will entitle the recipient to utility discounts as well. Call Health & Human Services Coordinator, Elizabeth Faichney at 267-4121.
FILE OF LIFE
Emergency medical information is recorded on an index sized card and secured with a magnet to your home refrigerator, clearly visible for the Emergency Medical Technicians to access in the event you call the ambulance. Information can also be recorded on a wallet size card to carry with you. Call Outreach Coordinator, Annie Wuelfing, for further information at 267-4121.
FRIENDLY VISITORS
Outreach volunteers offer friendly conversation with Monson seniors at home and in nursing homes. Various activities can be initiated, according to individual situations. If you would like a friendly visitor or would like to volunteer as a friendly visitor, call Outreach Coordinator, Annie Wuelfing at 267-4121.
HEALTH CARE PROXY
This is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone to make health care / medical decisions for you should you be unable to make them for yourself. You can learn more about the Health Care Proxy by calling Health & Human Services Coordinator, Elizabeth Faichney, at 267-4121 or by consulting Chapter 201D of the Massachusetts General Laws.
HEALTH INSURANCE ASSISTANCE
Call for assistance with all questions and problems relating to health insurance such as Medicaid/Mass Health, Medicare, MEDEX, long term care planning, managed care plans, private insurance plans. Appointments necessary. Contact Health & Human Services Coordinator, Elizabeth Faichney, at 267-4121.
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT LOAN
The Monson COA loans walkers, commodes, raised toilet seats, canes, tub grab bars, tub transfer chairs, wheelchairs and hospital beds. Be sure to contact the Center before purchasing items. No charge for items loaned, but we do appreciate a donation. For more details call the Center at 267-4121.
OUTREACH HOME VISITS
The Outreach Coordinator will make home visits to elders and their caregivers. Visits are made to evaluate and assess needs and to determine whether a homemaker, aide or other assistance is needed to help them maintain their independence while living at home. Contact Outreach Coordinator, Annie Wuelfing at 267-4121.
RESPITE CARE
A short period of rest or relief to allow family members time away from caregiving responsibilities to reduce stress, to take care of one’s own health, or to participate in other family activities. Services can be provided through the Center, local nursing home, rest homes and day care centers. Call Outreach Coordinator, Annie Wuelfing, at 267-4121.
TELEPHONE OUTREACH
Receive a friendly telephone call from an Outreach Volunteer on a regular basis. Contact Outreach Coordinator Annie Wuelfing.
VAN COMPANIONS
Volunteers are available to travel on the Center’s van with individuals who feel uncomfortable traveling alone. They are willing to push wheelchairs or assist in other ways. Call the Center at 267-4121 to make arrangements or to volunteer.
MENDING
Mrs. Elaine Nothe will do mending for Monson seniors. Mending may be left at the Center with your name, telephone number and mending instructions. We will call you when it is completed. Small charge.
WOMEN, INFANTS & CHILDREN (W.I.C.)
The Monson Council on Aging provides help in completing and submitting the application for residents of all ages. Call Health & Human Services Coordinator, Elizabeth Faichney at 267-4121.
NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Annie Wuelfing, Outreach Coordinator, will visit seniors in their homes and complete as assessment of their needs. She works with the staff to arrange transportation and meals. She will make arrangements with the One-Day-A-Month Club for handyman chores, get local teens who can shovel or rake, complete a File of Life form and a Handicapped Placard application, and arrange for Respite Care or a Lifeline. Krista can also look to Greater Springfield Senior Services, Inc. to provide for home aids to help with personal care and housecleaning or to provide for Caregiver and special grants to help seniors remain in their homes.
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