Community Voices for Health

By Nicole Long — CEO of Old Colony Elder Services

Disability Pride Month, celebrated every July, commemorates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which became law in July 1990 and extends 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 with services to help them thrive in their own homes and in the community. 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.

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 southeastern Massachusetts. Our agency offers significant life-supporting care that enables individuals to live within the community as independently as possible for as long as possible while preserving dignity and quality of life. Here are 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,” helps 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 in a private apartment.

Homecare options include but are not limited to care management, personal care, homemaking, and transition support after discharge from a 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.

Community Connections

Many older adults and people with disabilities 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.

If you have questions about independent living or know someone who might need our services, you can learn more about OCES at https://ocesma.org.