Home Care Program

Summary
Helping elders live safely and with dignity at home is the mission of HESSCO Elder Services. Toward that end, trained care managers conduct comprehensive assessment of elders’ and caregivers’ needs. The care manager may develop and monitor service plans, assist individuals in obtaining community benefits, and advocate for elders on all aspects of health and social service assistance.

Cost of service to client
Care management is available to all seniors and their families. An initial assessment is free of charge. Seniors available for the Massachusetts subsidized Home Care Program may receive services at no cost or on a sliding fee scale depending upon their income.

Volunteer opportunities
Office volunteers are needed to help with clerical and research aspects of the program.

About the Home Care Program
Our care managers make sure the elders in their care are receiving the services they need. We work with respected community agencies to provide homemaking, personal care, grocery shopping and delivery, adult day care, transportation, respite care, personal emergency response systems, and other important services for those who qualify. We assist in coordinating private pay services for those not eligible for services under the Home Care Program.

Services we offer through our Home Care Program include:
Care Management
Care managers work together with nurses to link elders with various essential services. This relationship is at the heart of our Home Care Program.

Respite Care
This program provides services for elders so that their caregivers can receive some relief from 24-hour daily responsibilities. Services can include homemaking, personal care, a social day program, or adult day health.

Homemaking
Our homemaking service provides a trained worker who assists in an elder’s home with needs such as housework, laundry, and shopping.

Personal Care
Our personal care services provides trained workers to assist elders at home with tasks such as dressing and bathing.

Personal Emergency Response System
With options ranging from a distress button to a new device that senses when an elder falls, the personal emergency response system provides a quick, easy way to call for help.

Adult Day Health Programs
Adult Day Health Programs provide a safe, social place where elders can participate in activities in a setting where their physical needs can also be met.

Transportation
We can provide elders with a taxi ride to medical appointments when they have no other way to get there. Seniors can make appointments to medical appointments in Boston by calling Foxfield Taxi at 1-800-585-8294. Each town is assigned one day each week; the taxis leave in the morning for Boston and leave Boston in the middle of the afternoon. The Councils on Aging also provide transportation for a variety of activities; check with your local Council for details.

Frequently asked questions

Q: If I live with my family, can I get help from HESSCO Elder Services’ Home Care Program?
A: Yes, you may be eligible for many services, and we’re happy to explain them to you. Your family members may be interested in learning about our Family Caregiver Program.

Q: How do I get services like homemaking or personal care?
A: Call us! We’ll help. When you call HESSCO Elder Services at (781) 784-4944, you’ll talk with a staff person who will discuss your specific situation with you and will connect you with home care services that meet your needs.

Q: How do I know if the Home Care Program can help me?
A: Again, the best way to find out is to call us. We will listen to your concerns, talk with you about your options, and connect you with services. We look forward to hearing from you!