Information included in this section has been obtained from a variety of resource manuals, websites, brochures and materials.  Some of the sections below contain quotes from resource brochures in order to describe a service.  The goal is to offer a wide range of options to seniors and their family members who are seeking resource information.

For a more comprehensive listing of services offered to seniors log on to www.minutemansenior.org or call Minuteman Senior Services at 781-272-7177.

The Better Business Bureau is a nonprofit organization that encourages honest advertising and selling practices.  Log on to www.bbb.org for further information and consumer tips.

Before making any decisions remember these important consumer tips:
1.  If a deal sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
2.  Protect your personal information.
3.  Avoid making large purchases in times of stress.  Ask your family and others you trust for their 
    experiences.
4.  Read and understand any contract or legal document you are asked to sign. 
    Make sure there are no blank spaces.

For more consumer information visit the website www.consumeraction.gov

If you have found a resource helpful or for further information:  Call Judy Tanner at the Woburn Senior Center - 781-897-5963.

Resources of Interest to Seniors and their family members are listed for informational purposes and do not imply a recommendation or endorsement of programs, services or products.


AARP:
Find out if you qualify for a number of programs available to seniors by using "Benefits QuickLINK".  Answer a few questions and get fact sheets, applications, and websites for programs that fit your situation at www.aarp.org/quicklink or call 800-424-3410 or 866-448-3621 or write AARP Massachusetts Office One Beacon Street Suite 2301 Boston MA 02108.
www.aarp.org
www.bulletin.aarp.org

Abandoned Property:
If you think you may have any financial assets (except land or real estate) without customer generated activity for an extended period of time call 617-367-0400 or 1-888-344-6277.  For a comprehensive list of available accounts log on to www.findmassmoney.com The address for written communication is:  Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of the State Treasurer - Abandoned Property Division One Ashburton Place, 12th Floor Boston MA 02108

Abuse:
Protective services are offered by calling 781-272-7177 or 978-263-8720.  Elder Protective Services is a statewide program under the auspices of the Executive Office of Elder Affairs.  The Elder Abuse Hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-922-2275.  Mistreatment of elders can include physical, sexual and emotional abuse; neglect or financial exploitation by family members or others with an ongoing personal relationship.  Ask for help if your caregiver or a family member is hurting you or threatening to hurt you; won't let you see friends, family or your doctor; is not providing food or medications; is taking your money or things you value; is signing your name without permission; is asking you to sign papers you don't understand.  For further information visit the website www.minutemansenior.org
The Disabled Persons Protection Commission is an independent investigation and oversight agency that investigates and remediates suspected abuse of people with disabilities between the ages of 21 and 59 in the Commonwealth - call 1-800-426-9009 or visit www.mass.gov/dppc
The National Center on Elder Abuse is a resource for elder rights, law enforcement and legal professionals, public policy leaders and researchers to promote understanding, knowledge sharing and action on elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation - contact 202-898-2586 or www.ncea.aoa.gov

Activities and Education:
The National Center for Education - www.nces.ed.gov
Elderhostel - www.elderhostel.org/ 800-454-5768 or 877-426-5806
Senior Net - www.seniornet.org/
Retired and Senior Volunteers Program - www.seniorcorps.org
Museums - www.museumlink.com/
Museum of Fine Arts - www.mfa.org 617-267-9300
Peabody Essex Museum - www.pem.org/ 978-745-9500 or 866-745-1876
Worcester Art Museum - www.worcesterart.org/ 508-799-4406
The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library - www.jfklibrary.org/ 866-JFK-1960 or 617-514-1600
Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) - www.bso.org 617-638-9431
Clark Art Institute - www.clarkart.edu 413-458-2303
Academy for Lifelong Learning of Cape Cod Inc. www.allcapecod.org 508-362-2131
Harvard Institute for Learning in Retirement - www.hilr.harvard.edu/ 617-495-4072
Osher Institute for Lifelong Learning - 781-736-2171 or 617-627-5885 or 617-287-7312
Explorers Lifelong Learning Institute of Salem State College - www.salemstate.edu 978-744-0804
Learning in Retirement Association - 978-934-3135
Life Long Learning - 978-556-3688
Middlesex Institute for Lifelong Learning for Seniors (MILES) - 781-280-3617
YMCA - www.ymca.net/ 800-872-9622
Massachusetts Governor's Committee on Fitness and Sports - www.govfitness.com
The American Association of Retired Persons - www.aarp.org/
Growing Stronger (strength training program) - www.nutrition.tufts.edu/ 973-579-3760
NIH SeniorHealth - www.nihseniorhealth.gov
National Institute on Aging - www.nia.nih.gov 800-222-2225
Rails to Trails Conservancy (27 trails in Mass.) - www.railtrails.org
The Delta Society (pet therapy) - www.deltasociety.org
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation - www.mass.gov 413-545-5353
US National Park Service - www.nps.gov 617-223-5200

Adaptive Technology Vendors (a sample of available services):
1.  ABISee Inc.
    141 Parker Street, Maynard MA 01754
    978-201-9302 or 800-681-5909
    www.abisee.com
2. Adaptivision
    PO Box 388, Lynnfield MA 01940
    781-334-2004 or 800-407-6486
    www.videomagnification.com
3. Kurzweil Educational Systems 
    14 Crosby Drive, Bedford MA 01730
    781-276-0600 or 800-894-5374
    www.kurzweiledu.com
4. MagniSight
    PO Box 340, Charlton MA 01507
    800-232-3329
    www.magnisight.com
5. Verizon Center for Customers with Disabilities
    280 Locke Drive, 4th Floor, Marlboro MA 01752
    800-974-6006
6. Perkins Products
    102 Bridge Rd, Salisbury MA 01952
    978-462-3817
    www.perkinsproducts.org

Administration on Aging:
800-677-1116
www.aoa.gov
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) provides information, training, technical assistance, advocacy and leadership in all aspects of aging services and issues - contact 202-479-1200 or www.ncoa.org

Adult Day Care Programs:
Inclusion of a specific agency does not imply a recommendation or endorsement of programs, services or products.  The services listed are only for comparison and information purposes.

A few Adult Day Care Programs in the area are listed here so that you may compare costs and services offered:
* Active Day Medical Adult Day Care - 781-224-2800 (located in New Bedford, Fairhaven, Hingham, 
  Wakefield, Wareham and Wellesley) www.activeday.com
* Blair House Adult Day Health Center - 10 Erlin Terrace, Tewksbury - 978-851-3121 
  www.elderservices.com
* Cooperative Elder Services - 37 B St, Burlington - 781-270-5751
  also located in Concord; Milton; Groton; Arlington and Lexington www.elderdayservices.com
* Don Orione Adult Health Center - 111 Orient Ave, East Boston - 617-569-2100
* Dutton Center - 1117 Main St, Wakefield - 781-246-2820 www.hallmarkhealth.org
* Hearthstone Alzheimer Care - 23 Warren Ave, Woburn - 781-674-2884 or 1-888-422-CARE  
  www.thehearth.org (also located in Hopkinton, Marlborough & Brockton)
* Rogerson House - 434 Jamaicaway, Boston - 617-983-2300; 888-983-2600 www.rogersonalz.org

Adult Family Care Program:
Adult Foster Care places adults who are not able to live alone safely in the homes of host families.  The host caregiver provides a private bedroom, meals, companionship, personal care assistance and 24 hour supervision.  Contact www.800ageinfo.com or 1-800-243-4636 for further information.

Adult Protective Services
The National Adult Protective Services Association can be reached at www.apsnetwork.org

Advance Care Planning:
For information regarding healthcare proxy and DNR www.mass.gov/dph/fch/elderhealth/advcare.pdf or call 617-624-5440. Additional resources available at www.nim.nih.gov/medlineplus/advancedirectives.html or US Living Will Registry http://www.uslivingwillregistry.com/forms.shtm
Health Care Proxy information is also available at www.healthcareproxy.org or write to Massachusetts Health Decisions, PO Box 417 Sharon MA 02067.

Aging Services:
The Aging Services Access Points may be reached at 1-800-243-4656
The Administration on Aging (AOA) is an elder advocacy agency that focuses on increasing awareness of aging issues and administers grants and programs to enhance the quality of life for elders and caregivers - call 202-619-0724 or visit www.aoa.dhhs.gov
The National Institute on Aging conducts and supports biomedical, social and behavioral research related to problems older people encounter - call 301-496-1752 or visit www.nia.nih.gov
The "Gray Panthers" is an advocacy organization that concentrates on social and economic issues and common problems faced by retirees - call 1-800-280-5362 or www.graypanthers.org
The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging may be contacted at 202-872-0888 or www.n4a.org
The National Association of State Units on Aging may be reached at 202-898-2578 or www.nasua.org
The Older Women's League may be reached at 1-800-825-3695 or www.owl-national.org

Aging Services Access Points and Area Agencies on Aging:
Baypath Elder Services (Southborough) 800-287-7284
Boston Senior Home Care (Boston) 617-451-6400
Bristol Elder Services (Fall River) 800-427-2101
Central Mass Boston Elder Services (Boston) 617-277-7416
Central Area Agency on Aging (West Boylston) 800-244-3032
Chelsea/Revere/Winthrop Elder Services (Revere) 617-884-2500
Coastline Elderly Services (New Bedford) 508-999-6400
Commission on Affairs of the Elderly (Boston) 617-635-4366
Elder Services of Berkshire County (Pittsfield) 800-544-5242
Elder Services of Cape Cod and Islands (South Dennis) 508-394-3712
Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley (Lawrence) 800-892-0890
Elder Services of Worcester (Worcester) 508-756-1545
ETHOS (Jamaica Plain) 617-635-4366
Franklin County Homecare Corp (Turners Falls) 800-732-4636
Greater Lynn Senior Services (Lynn) 781-599-0110
Greater Springfield Senior Services (Springfield) 800-649-3641
HESSCO Elder Services (Sharon) 800-462-5221
Highland Valley Elder Services (Northhampton) 800-322-0551
Minuteman Senior Services (Burlington) 781-272-7177
Montachusett Home Care (Leominster) 800-734-7312
Mystic Valley Elder Services (Malden) 781-324-7705
North Shore Elder Services (Danvers) 978-750-4540
Old Colony Planning Council (Brockton) 508-583-1833
Old Colony Elderly Services (Brockton) 800-242-0246
SeniorCare (Gloucester) 978-281-1750
Somerville/Cambridge Elder Services (Somerville)617-628-2601
South Shore Elder Services (Braintree) 781-848-3910
Springwell (Watertown) 617-926-4100
Tri-Valley Elder Services (Webster) 800-286-6640
WestMass ElderCare (Holyoke) 413-538-9020

AIDS information:
The AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts is committed to addressing the needs of those living with AIDS and HIV through service, education, advocacy and outreach.  Call 617-437-6200 or visit www.aac.org
The National Institutes of Health may be reached at 301-496-4000 or www.nih.gov

Al Anon and Alateen:
508-366-0556 or www.ma-al-anon-alateen.org

Alcoholics Anonymous:
617-426-9444 or visit the website www.aa.org or www.aaboston.org
For alcohol and substance abuse information call 1-800-327-5050 available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in any language.  Also available at www.helpline-online.com

Alcohol and Drug Use Helpline:
Need help finding services for alcohol and drug use?  Call 1-800-327-5050 or visit www.helpline-online.com This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in any language.  The helpline provides free and confidential information and referrals for alcohol and other drug use problems and is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

Alzheimer's Association:
If you or someone you love is suffering from Alzheimer's, call the Alzheimer's Association helpline for support, understanding and information day or night at 1-800-272-3900 or log on to www.alz.org or www.alzmass.org 
Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer's Disease:
1.  Memory changes that disrupt daily life
2.  Challenges in planning or solving problems
3.  Difficulty completing familiar tasks
4.  Confusion with time or place
5.  Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
6.  New problems with words in speaking or writing
7.  Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
8.  Decreased or poor judgment
9.  Withddrawal from work or social activities
10.Changes in mood and personality
If you or someone you know experience any of these warning signs, please see a doctor.
The Helpline 800-272-3900 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Massachusetts Chapter - 311 Arsenal Street, Watertown MA 02472 or 617-868-6718.
1-877-474-8259 or www.alz.org/10signs
24 hour helpline: 800-272-3900
Lowell 978-937-5576
Sandwich 508-833-8404
Springfield 413-787-1113
Worcester 508-799-2386
Bedford NH 603-606-6590
The above numbers offer assistance with: questions, care consultation, support groups, publications, educational programs, MedicAlert and "Safe Return" - a nationwide identification, support and enrollment program.
For the "Safe Return" program call 888-572-8566 or www.medicalert.org

Alzheimer's Disease Research:
One of 29 Designated National Centers of Excellence in Alzheimer's Disease Research - the Boston University Alzheimer's Disease Center conducts research, enhances clinical care to Alzheimer's disease patients and their families and provides education to the greater Boston area.  Call 1-888-458-2823; 617-638-5670 or log on to www.bu.edu/alzresearch/
Or contact the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center at 800-438-4380 or log on to www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers

American Cancer Society Research Network:
The first thing most cancer patients want is more information.  You may have the following questions:  What does this diagnosis mean?  What treatments are available?  What will life be like during treatments?  The American Cancer Society Cancer Resource Network can help you and your doctor find the answers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Call 800-227-2345 or log on to www.cancer.org 
In addition, if you require treatment far from home, the American Cancer Society may be able to help you find a place to stay near your treatment center.

American Seniors Housing Association:
202-237-0900
www.seniorshousing.org

Animal Spay/Neuter Program:

The Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society's Spay Mass Van can be reached at 888-495-7729 or by email at or the website www.mrfrs.org

Arthritis:
Educational literature is available on various types of arthritis, medications, self-management techniques and daily living strategies by contacting the Arthritis Foundation, 29 Crafts Street, Suite 450 Newton MA 02458 or phone 617-244-1800; 1-800-766-9449 or log on to www.arthritis.org

Assisted Living Residences:
Assisted living residences are certified by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs and provide a combination of housing and personalized services for those who require help with bathing, dressing, grooming, eating and other care needs.  These residences may also include Independent Living in addition to Assisted Living.  Log on to www.massalfa.org for a list of residences.  Contact the Massachusetts Assisted Living Facilities Association at 460 Totten Pond Rd, Suite 600 Waltham MA 02451 or 781-622-5999 or 703-691-8100.
The "Group Adult Foster Care" program is funded by Medicaid and pays for the service component of assisted living.  For information call 1-800-243-4636.
ElderCHOICE is a MassHousing program that provides reduced rates for assisted living at www.elderchoice.com/ or call 617-354-4899.

Blaire House - 10-B Erlin Ter. Tewksbury 978-851-3121
Country Club Heights - 3 Rehabilitation Way, Woburn 781-935-4094
Gables - 299 Cambride St. Winchester 781-756-1026
Hearthstone Alzheimer - 23 Warren Ave Woburn 781-932-0350
Isle of Emerald Court - 90 Emerald Ct Tewksbury 978-657-0800
Life Care Center - 25 Woodland Rd Stoneham - 781-662-2545
New Horizons at Choate  - 21 Warren Ave Woburn 781-932-8000
Pettee House - 277 Eliot Street, Newton MA - 617-527-0023 (nonprofit)
Pines of Tewksbury - 2580 Main Street Tewksbury - 978-657-0800

Assistive Technology (Computers; Hearing Aids; Print Magnifiers; Vehicle Modification):
Easter Seals gives people with disabilities and their families access to low-interest cash loans so they can buy the assistive technology devices they need.  Call 800-244-2756 or visit www.massatloan.org
Sources for assistive technology information:  www.abledata.com www.aahomecare.org www.atmeda.org

Attorney General's Elder Hotline:
888-243-5337 or 617-727-2200 or visit www.ago.state.ma.us

Audiology Services:
Contact the Academy of Doctors of Audiology at 401 N. Michigan Ave, Suite 2200 Chicago Illinois 60611 or call 866-493-5544 or visit the website http://www.audiologist.org/

Balance Center:
The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary offers a balance center for patients with balance and dizziness disorders.  Call 617-573-3954 or visit www.masseyeandear.org for information.

Bank Information:
Contact the Division of Banks at One South Station Boston MA 02110 or call 617-956-1500 or visit www.mass.gov/dob

Bathroom Renovation for Safety:
To receive information regarding barrier free showeers with a pull-down seat, grab bars or hand held showers to provide easy access call "Safety Baths of New England" at 888-607-5550 for a free estimate.

Battered Women Support Services:
The Massachusetts Coalition of Battered Women Service Groups may be contacted at 210 Commercial Street Boston MA 02109 or call 617-248-0922.  A support committee may be reached at 617-899-8676.  The Women's Crisis Center may be reached at 508-465-2155.  Help for Abused Women may be located by calling 508-744-6841.  A 24 hour hotline network for women's safety may be reached at 1-800-992-2600 and the Support Committee for Battered Women may also be reached 24 hours at 1-800-899-4000.

Benefits:
www.GovBenefits.gov is a US Government website in partnership with 15 Federal agencies providing detailed information on more than 1,000 Federal government benefit programs including:  housing; loans; food; child care; healthcare; living assistance; social security; pension; veteran benefits and scholarships.
For a listing of Massachusetts State Services visit the website www.sec.state.ma.us or call 1-800-392-6090 or 617-727-7030 to reach the State Bookstore.

Bereavement:
For shoes who have lost a loved one to suicide call 617-536-2460 or 1-877-870-4673 or visit www.samaritanshope.org to join the "SafePlace" support group facilitated by trained Samaritans volunteers who are also survivors of suicide.

Blindness:
Contact the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind located at 48 Boylston Street Boston MA 02116 or call 1-800-392-6556 or 617-727-5550 or visit the website http://mass.gov/mcb
National Federation of the Blind may be reached at 1-866-504-7300 www.nfbnewsline.org
The Massachusetts Association for the Blind may be reached at 617-738-5110 or www.mablind.org
The Carroll Center for the Blind 770 Centre Street, Newton MA 02458; 617-969-6200 or 800-852-3131 www.carroll.org  Services for seniors include:  Essential Skills Training Program; Senior Vision Assessment; Computer Technology Training on Campus; Carroll Tech On-Line Training; Outdoor Recreation Program; Safe Home Program; Community Mobility Services; Diabetes Self-Management Education; Selection of adaptive devices in the Carroll Store.

Bipolar Disorder and Depression:

Manic Depressive & Depressive Association - 617-855-2795

Blood Pressure:
Blood Pressure Management Center allows consumers to track their health data online.
High blood pressure affects one in three Americans and is one of the major risk factors for both heart disease and stroke.
www.americanheart.org/BloodPressureManagementCenter

Breast Cancer Research:
Learn more at www.armyofwomen.org

Breast Prosthesis:
"A Caring Place" located within Baldwin Park 1 at 12 Alfred Street, Suite 207, Woburn at 781-756-4700 is a resource for wigs, prostheses and head coverings.

Canadian Scams:
If you are the victim of a scam originating in Canada, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Call Center can be reached at 1-888-495-8501 or the website: www.phonebusters.com
If you believe you have been a victim of a scam, contact your local police immediately and also the state attorney general's office. 

Cancer:
To lower your chances of getting cancer and other diseases don't use tobacco, protect yourself from the sun, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and only small amounts of red meat and high-fat dairy products, maintain a healthy weight, drink less alcohol if you drink at all and get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on five or more days of the week.  Regular cancer testing can save your life.  For further information contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or log on to www.cancer.org

Cancer Research:
The American Institute for Cancer Research may be contacted at 1759 R Street NW, Washington DC 20009 -Call: 1-800-343-8114 or  visit the website www.aicr.org

Cancer Support:
Explore ways of dealing with the stresses of cancer while building a support system to take you through recovery or through the challenge of being a caregiver.  Programs and services are free or available for a suggested donation.  No service is refused because of funding.  Contact the Center for Cancer Support and Education 180 Massachusetts Ave Suite 301 Arlington MA 02474 or call 781-648-0312 or log on to www.centerforcancer.org

Car-Buying Resources:
Get tips on saving for a down-payment at www.AmericaSaves.org and to check your credit report go to www.annualcreditreport.com To check on auto prices go to www.kbb.com or www.nada.com or www.edmunds.com For safety information go to www.autosafety.org

"Caregiver Homes" (A resource for family members providing care for a loved one):
Family and non-family members can take advantage of the caregiver homes program.  Caregivers receive ongoing supervision, continuing education and respite.  The daily reimbursement paid to caregivers who provide care through the Adult Foster Care Program are non-taxable (as of 7/09) and any changes to regulations may be found at www.mass.gov To be a client the person must meet three criteria: Be either a senior who has MassHealth (or eligible) or a disabled adult age 16 or older with MassHealth; Needs assistance with activities of daily living or managing behaviors and needs 24-hour care and supervision.  A caregiver can be a family member or a member of the local community - however, MassHealth does not allow payment to a client's spouse or legal guardian to be a caregiver.  To discuss the details of your personal situation call 866-797-2333; 978-241-2062 or fax 866-646-1543 or visit the website www.caregiverhomes.com or write 20 Park Plaza Suite 920 Boston MA 02116.  To reach the North Shore Program Manager contact 800 West Cummings Park, Suite 2450 Woburn MA 01801 or fax 781-935-1413.

Caregiver Resources:
A listing of 11,000 businesses, services and professionals who provide care and information regarding programs for the elderly is available at the website:  www.fiftypluscaregivers.com  For further information contact 508-752-2512.
Another excellent resource is www.familycaregiverhandbook.org
Plan ahead when able to avoid an unanticipated crisis.  Ask yourself the following questions:
1.  Do I know where my parents/spouses/relative's important documents are located?
2.  Do I know what their wishes would be if they were unable to make medical decisions?
3.  What should I do if they can no longer manage their own finances?
4.  Do we have updated medical and legal documents in place?
A good place to begin when considering resources is the website www.800ageinfo.com or call 1-800-243-4636.
In the Woburn area, the "Aging Service Access Point" is: Minuteman Senior Services located at 24 Third Ave Burlington MA 01803 may be reached at 781-272-7177 or visit the website www.minutemansenior.org Core services will include a comprehensive in-home assessment conducted by a case manager; Development of a care plan which is reassessed regularly; Home care services delivered through a network of subcontracted provider agencies.
The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers may be reached at 520-881-8008 or www.caremanager.org
The National Family Caregivers Association may be reached at 1-800-896-3650 or www.thefamilycaregiver.org

Cellphone Service:
Safelink Wireless provides a free wireless phone and free minutes each month to qualified households undeer a government funded Lifeline Assistance Program.  In this program you will receive free wireless service, a free wireless phone with an allotment of monthly minutes and unlimited emergency calling.  To qualify you must either participate in a government assistance program or qualify based on a certain yearly household income.  Call 1-800-977-3768 to see if you qualify or visit www.safelinkwireless.com
www.massresources.org

Census Information:
One Beacon Street, 7th Floor, Boston MA 02108-3107 or visit www.2010Census.gov  or phone 617-223-3610.  Census questionnaires will be delivered to households from Feb-March 2010.
To learn how to use census data go to http://factfinder.census.gov

CharlieCard:
If you were born before 1944, you qualify for a free Senior CharlieCard.  Load a $20 monthly pass on the CharlieCard and enjoy unlimited travel on local bus and subway.  You may also pay as you go with your card and save 50%.  Get your free Senior CharlieCard at Back Bay Station or Downtown Crossing Station.  For further information call 617-222-3200 or visit www.mbta.com

Childcare:
The Family Childcare System is located at 2 Merrimac Street, Woburn 781-935-6495. 

Child Loss Bereavement:
Contact "Compassionate Friends" at 877-969-0010.

Cholesterol:
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that's made in the liver.  Too much cholesterol in the blood increases the risk of fatty buildups in the arteries and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
High cholesterol has no warning signs.  Major risk factors that affect your LDL cholesterol goal include cigarette smoking; high blood pressure; HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol that's less than 40 mg/dL; family history of early heart disease and increased age. 
For information call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit www.americanheart.org/cld

Collection Agencies:
For information regarding the "Fair Debt Collection Practices Act" contact the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov or the State Attorney General at www.naag.org or the Consumer Protection Office www.nacaa.net
For credit counseling information visit www.nfcc.org for the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.
A collector may not:
1.  Use abusive language to force you into making a payment.
2.  Call "unreasonable hours - generally considered to be before 8am or after 9pm.
3.  Threaten to notify your friends that you have not paid a bill.
4.  Use false pretenses to enter your home intending to identify or take something of value.
5.  Attempt to collect more than you owe.
6.  Send you misleading letters that appear to be from a government agency or court of law.
For information regarding the AARP Foundation Money Management Program visit www.aarpmmp.org

Communication:
To locate an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist go to www.asha.org or call 800-638-8255.  They may be able to assist with aphasia following a stroke.
Recommendations for improving communication:  Control distractions; Encourage all communication methods that work for the individual; Maximize your own communication by speaking slowly and clearly using facial expressions and natural gestures; Educate yourself and others about aphasia and guidelines for communicating.  For speech and language recovery software visit www.strokesoftware.com or call 1-800-891-9937 or log on to www.stroke.about.com or www.strokeassociation.org
Medical equipment supplies may be found at www.rehabmart.com or 1-800-827-8283 or www.activeforever.com or 1-800-377-8033.

Community Service Network:
The goal of this organization is to promote independence and self-sufficiency.  Homelessness prevention, landlord/tenant mediation, housing search are some areas where they can assist.  Call 781-438-1977 or visit www.csninc.org

Consumer Affairs Hotline:
If you are concerned about scams call 617-973-3787 or 888-233-3757 or log on to www.mass.gov/consumer
Call for Action, Inc. will assist consumers with consumer issues and mediate complaints at no cost.  Call 301-657-7490 or visit the website www.callforaction.org
The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations may be contacted at 1-888-283-3757 or www.mass.gov/oca
For a current "Consumer Action Handbook" call 1-888-878-3856 or write Federal Citizen Information Center, Pueblo CO 81009 or view online at www.ConsumerAction.gov

Congregate Housing:
This shared living environment is designed to integrate the housing and service needs of seniors and younger disabled individuals.  The goal is to increase self-sufficiency through support services and is not a medical care facility.  Further information is available at www.mass.gov

Continuing Care Retirement Communities:
CCRC's are comprised of independent living, personal services and skilled nursing care all at the same location.  Further information is available at www.mass.gov The Executive Office of Elder Affairs maintains a listing of contact telephone numbers for each facility at 617-727-7750 or 800-243-4636.

Consumer Action:
Protect your consumer rights by visiting the website www.consumeraction.gov
Help children to handle money properly by visiting www.kids.gov
For assistance on all aspects of consumer protection visit www.firstgov.gov
To contact the Better Business Bureau visit www.bosbbb.org or call 508-652-4800.
Contact the Elder Publications Line at 617-727-2200 extension 2674 or www.ago.state.ma.us

COPD:
Relevant resources, research, reports and advice for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is available from the COPD Foundation 2937 SW 27th Ave, Suite 302 Miami FL 33133; 1-866-316-2673 or log on to www.COPDResearchStudy.com

Coping with Disaster:
There are many things that you can do to reduce stress and to help yourself and others during a disaster.  MassSupport can provide you with information regarding resources for your family and community that pertain to disasters.  Call 1-866-237-8274 or log on to www.mass.gov/eohhs/MassSupport

Councils on Aging:
The Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging represents the 356 Councils on Aging and Senior Centers across the Commonwealth to improve the quality of services provided to senior citizens at 413-527-6425 or www.mcoaonline.com
Abington 500 Gliniewicz Way Abington MA 02351 at 781-982-2145
Acton 472 Main St Acton MA 01720 at 978-264-9643
Acushnet 59 South Main St Acushnet MA 02743 at 508-998-0280
Adams 20 East St Adams MA 01220 at 413-743-8333
Agawam 68 Meadowbrook Manor Agawam MA 01001 at 413-743-8333
Alford 11 Jay Lane Alford MA 01263 at 413-528-9238
Amesbury 9 School St Smesbury MA 01913 at 978-388-8138
Amherst 70 Boltwood Walk Amherst MA 01002 at 413-259-3114
Andover 36 Bartlet St Andover MA 01810 at 978-623-8321
Arlington 27 Maple St Arlington MA 02476 at 781-316-3400
Ashburnham 32 Main St Ashburnham MA 01430 at 978-827-5000
Ashby 895 Main St Ashby MA 01431 at 978-386-5532
Ashland 162 West Union St Ashland MA 01721 at 508-881-0140
Athol 584 Main St Athol MA 01331 at 978-249-8986
Attleboro 25 So. Main St Attleboro MA 02703 at 508-223-2235
Auburn 4 Goddard Drive Auburn MA 01501 at 508-832-7799
Avon 65 E. Main St Avon MA 02322 at 508-559-0060
Ayer 18 Pond St Ayer MA 01432 at 978-772-8260
Barnstable 825 Falmouth Rd Hyannis MA 02601 at 508-862-4750
Barre 577 South Barre Rd Barre MA 01005 at 978-355-5004
Becket 557 Main St Becket MA 01223 at 413-623-8934
Bedford 12 Mudge Way Bedford MA 01730 at 781-275-6825
Belchertown 60 State St Belchertown MA 01007 at 413-323-0420
Bellingham 40 Blackstone St Bellingham MA 02019 at 508-966-0398
Belmont 23 Oakley Rd Belmont MA 02478 at 617-484-5501
Berkley 1 N. Main St Berkley MA 02779 at 508-823-8806
Berlin PO Box 126 Berlin MA 01503 at 978-838-2500
Bernardston PO Box 504 Bernardston MA 01337 at 413-6488-5413
Beverly 90 Colon St Beverly MA 01915 at 978-921-6017
Billerica 25 Concord Rd Billerica MA 01821 at 978-671-0916
Blackstone 15 St Paul St Blackstone MA 01504 at 508-876-9203
Blandford PO Box 257 Blandford MA 01008 at 413-848-2243
Bolton PO Box 342 Bolton MA 01740 at 978-779-3308
Boston Comm. One City Hall Plaza Rm 271 Boston MA 02201 at 617-635-4366
Bourne 239 Main St Buzzards Bay MA 02532 at 508-759-0653
Boxborough 29 Middle Rd Boxborough MA 01719 at 978-263-1116
Boylston 221 Main St Boylston MA 01505 at 508-869-6022
Braintree 71 Cleveland Ave Braintree MA 02184 at 781-848-1963
Brewster 1673 Main St Brewster MA 02631 at 508-896-2737
Bridgewater 10 Wally Krueger Way Bridgewater MA 02324 at 508-697-0929
Brimfield PO Box 172 Brimfield MA 01010 at 413-245-7253
Brockton 10 Father Kenney Way Brockton MA 02301 at 508-580-7811
Brookfield PO Box 397 Brookfield MA 01506 at 508-867-6043
East Bridgewater 137 Central St East Bridgewater MA 02333 at 508-378-1610
East Brookfield PO Box 203 East Brookfield MA 01515 at 508-885-5205
East Longmeadow 328 North Main St East Longmeadow MA 01028 at 413-525-5436
Eastham PO Box 1203 East Eastham MA 02651 at 508-255-6164
Easthampton 19 Union St Easthampton MA 01027 at 413-527-6151
Easton 136 Elm St North Easton MA 02356 at 508-230-0544
Edgartown PO Box 1295 Edgartown MA 02539 at 508-627-4368
Egremont PO Box 368 South Egremont 01258 at 413-528-3488
Erving 18 Plesant St Erving MA 01344 at 413-423-3308
Essex PO Box 30 Essex MA 01929 at 978-768-7932
Everett 90 Chelsea St Everett MA 02149 at 617-394-2261
Fairhaven 229 Huttleston Ave Fairhaven MA 02719 at 508-979-4029
Fall River One Government Center Fall River MA 02722 at 508-324-2401
Falmouth 300 Dillingham Ave Falmouth MA 02540 at 508-540-0196
Fitchburg 14 Wallace Ave Fitchburg MA 01420 at 978-345-9598
Florida 367 A. Mohawk Trail Drury MA 0143 at 413-66 2-2811
Foxborough 75 Central St Foxborough MA 02035 at 508-543-1252
Framingham 535 Union Ave Framingham MA 01702
Franklin 10 Daniel McCahill St Franklin MA 02038 at 508-520-4945
Freetown 227 Chace Rd East Freetown MA 02717 at 508-763-9557
Gardner 294 Pleasant St Gardner MA 01440 at 978-630-4067
Georgetown 1 Library St Georgetown MA 01833 at 978-352-5726
Gill-Montague 62 Fifth St Turner Falls MA 01376 at 413-863-4500
Gloucester 6 Manuel F. Lewis St Gloucester MA 01930 at 978-281-9765
Goshen PO Box 314 Goshen MA 01032 at 413-268-7122
Grafton 30 Providence Rd Grafton MA 01519 at 508-839-9242
Granby 257 State St Granby MA 01033 at 413-467-3239
Granville 707 Granvill Rd Granville MA 01033 at 413-467-3239
Great Barrington 909 Main St Great Barrington MA 01230 at 413-528-1881
Greenfield 54 High St Greenfield MA 01301 at 413-772-1517
Groton 173 Main St Groton MA 01450 at 978-448-1170
Groveland 183 Main St Groton MA 01450 at 978-372-1101
Hadley 46 Middle St Hadley MA 01035 at 413-586-4023
Halifax 506 Plymouth St Halifax MA 02338 at 781-293-7313
Hamilton 577 Bay Rd Hamilton MA 01936 at 978-468-5572
Hampden 104 Allen Sts Hampden MA 01036 at 413-566-5588
Hancock PO Box 1124 Hancock MA 01237 at 413-738-5225
Hanover 624 Circuit St Hanover MA 02339 at 781-878-6361
Hanson 132 Maquan St Hanson MA 02341 at 781-293-2683
Hardwick 175 Main St Gilbertville MA 01031 at 413-477-6707
Harvard PO Box 615 Harvard MA 01451 at 978-456-4120
Harwich 100 Oak St Harwich MA 02645 at 508-430-7550
Hatfield 59 Main St Hatfield MA 01038 at 413-247-9003
Haverhill 10 Welcome St Haverhill MA 01830 at 978-374-2390
Hawley 8 Pudding Hollow Rd Hawley MA 01339 at 413-339-5518
Heath 1 East Main St Heath MA 01346 at 413-337-4934
Hingham 224 Central St Hingham MA 02043 at 781-741-1458
Hinsdale PO Box 299 Hinsdale MA 01235 at 413-655-2652
Holbrook 9 Jewel Rd Holbrook MA 02343 at 781-767-4617
Holden 1130 Main St Holden MA 01520 at 413-829-02700
Holland 27 Strubridge Rd Holland MA 01521 at 413-245-3163
Holliston 150 Goulding St Holliston MA 01746 at 508-429-0622
Holyoke 310 Appleton St Holyoke MA 01040 at 413-322-5625
Hopedale 43 Hope St Hopedale MA 01747 at 508-473-6189
Hopkinton 28 Mayhew St Hopkinton MA 01748 at 508-497-9730
Hudson 29 Church St Hudson MA 01749 at 978-568-9638
Hull 197 A Samoset Ave Hull MA 02045 at 781-925-1239
Ipswich 25 Green St Ipswich MA 01938 at 978-356-6650
Kingston 33A Summer St Kinsgton MA 02364 at 781-585-0512
Lawrence 155 Haverhill St Lawrence MA 01840 at 978-794-5883
Lee 21 Crossway St Lee MA 01238 at 413-243-5545
Leominster 5 Pond St Leominster MA 01453 at 978-534-7511
Lexington 1475 Mass Ave Lexington MA 02420 at 781-861-0194
Lincoln PO Box 6353 Lincoln MA 01773 at 781-259-8811
Lowell 276 Broadway St Lowell MA 01854 at 978-446-7185
Lynn 8 Silsbee St Lynn MA 01901 at 781-599-0110
Lynnfield 525 Salem St Lynnfield MA 01940 at 781-598-1078
Malden 200 Pleasant St Rm 121 Malden MA 02148 at 781-397-7144
Mansfield 255 Hope St Mansfield MA 02048 at 508-261-7368
Marblehead 10 Humphrey St Marblehead MA 01945 at 781-631-6737
Marlborough 250 Main St Marlborough MA 01752 at 508-485-6492
Marshfield 230 Webster St Marshfield MA 02050 at 781-834-5581
Mashpee 26 Frank E. Hicks Dr Mashpee MA 02649 at 508-539-1440
Maynard 195 Main St Maynard MA 01754 at 978-897-1032
MCOA 116 Pleasant St - Rm 3109 Easthampton MA 01027 at 413-527-6425
Medford 101 Riverside Ave Medford MA 02155 at 781-396-6010
Melrose 235 West Foster St Melrose MA 02176 at 781-665-4304
Merrimac 100 East Main St Merrimac MA 01860 at 978-346-9549
Methuen 77 Lowell Street Methuen MA 01844-3613 at 978-794-3296
Middleborough 558 Plymouth Street Middleborough MA 02346 at 508-946-2490
Middleton 38 Maple Street Middleton MA 01949 at 978-777-4067
Milford 60 North Bow Street Milford MA 01757 at 508-473-8334
Nantucket 81 Washington Street Nantucket MA 02554 at 508-228-4490
Natick 117 East Central Street Natick MA 01760 at 508-647-6540
Needham 83 Pickering St Needham MA 02492 at 781-455-7555
Newbury 63 Hanover St Newbury MA 01951 at 978-462-8114
Newburyport 40 Water St Newburyport MA 01950 at 978-462-8650
Newton 345 Walnut St Newton MA 02160 at 617-796-1660
North Andover 120 R Main St No. Andover MA 02760 at 508-699-0131
North Reading 157 Park St No. Reading MA 01864 at 978-664-5600
Northampton 67 Conz St Northampton MA 01060 at 413-587-1228
Norton 55 W. Main St Norton MA 02766 at 508-285-0235
Norwell 293 Pine St Norwell MA 02061 at 781-659-7878
Peabody 79 Central St Peabody MA 01960 at 978-531-2254
Pembroke 144 Center St Pembroke MA 02359 at 781-294-8220
Pepperell 37 Nashua Rd Pepperell MA 01463 at 978-433-0326
Plymouth 10 Cordage Park Circle Plymoouth MA 02360 at 508-830-4230
Quincy 83 Saratoga St Quincy MA 02171 at 617-376-1245
Randolph 16 Fencourt Ave Randolph MA 02368 at 781-961-0930
Reading 16 Lowell St Reading MA 01867 at 781-942-6658
Revere 25 Winthrop Ave Revere MA 02151 at 781-286-8155
Rockport 4 Broadway Rockport MA 01966 at 978-546-2573
Salem 5 Broad St Salem MA 01970 at 978-744-0180
Salisbury 43 Lafayette Rd Salisbury MA 01952 at 978-462-2412
Sandwich 270 Quaker Meetinghouse Rd E. Sandwich MA 02537 at 508-888-4737
Saugus 466 Central St Saugus MA 01906 at 781-231-4178
Scituate 27 Brook St Scituate MA 02066 at 781-545-8722
Sharon 219 Massapoag Ave Sharon MA 02067 at 781-784-8000
Shirley PO Box 182 Shirley MA 01464 at 978-630-2650
Shrewsbury 98 Maple Ave Shrewsbury MA 01545 at 508-841-8640
Somerville 167 Holland St Somerville MA 02144
Spencer 40 Wall St Spencer MA 01562 at 508-885-7546
Springfield 1600 East Columbus Ave Springfield MA 01103 at 413-750-2654
Sterling 1 Park St Sterling MA 01564 at 978-422-3032
Stoneham 136 Elm St Stoneham MA 02180 at 781-438-1157
Stoughton 110 Rockland St Stoughton MA 02072 at 781-344-8882
Stow 380 Great Rd Stow MA 01775 at 978-897-1880
Sturbridge PO Box 746 Sturbridge MA 01566 at 508-347-7575
Swampscott 200 R Essex St Swampscott MA 01590 at 781-596-8866
Tauton 30 Olney St Taunton MA 02780 at 508-821-1425
Tewksbury 460 East St Tewksbury MA 01876 at 978-640-4482
Topsfield 8 W. Common St Topsfield MA 01983 at 978-887-1523
Wakefield 30 Converse St Wakefield MA 01880 at 781-245-3312
Wellesley 219 Washington St Wellesley MA 02481 at 781-235-3961
Westford 20 Pleasant St Westford MA 01886 at 978-692-5523
Wilmington 15 School St Wilmington MA 01887 at 978-657-7595
Winchester 109 Skillings Rd Winchester MA 01890 at 781-721-7136
Winthrop 35 Harvard St Winthrop MA 02152 at 6177-846-8538
Worchester 128 Providence St Worcester MA 01604 at 508-799-1230

Credit Cards:
To credit card tips and information log on to www.bankrate.com or www.consumer-action.org or www.cardweb.com or www.cardratings.com
For further consumer tips log on to www.mymoney.gov  or www.ftc.gov

Credit Reporting agencies:
Experian 1-888-397-3742    www.experian.com
TransUnion    www.transunion.com
Equifax    www.equifax.com 
For a free annual credit report contact www.annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.
For information regarding credit reports go to www.aarp.org

Crisis Hotline:
The Samaritans offer a 24-hour confidential Crisis Hotline at 1-866-912-4673 or 978-688-6607.  The service may also be reached at 430 North Canal Street, Lawrence MA  01840 office phone 978-688-0030 or on the web at www.FamilyServiceInc.com/Samaritans Another source is 1-877-870-4673 or www.samaritanshope.org The office is located at 141 Tremont Street, Boston MA 02111 or 617-536-2460.  A special teen line is available at 1-800-252-8336.

Deaf Adult Education:
Contact D.E.A.F. Inc 215 Brighton Ave Allston MA 02134 or call 617-254-4041 or 800-886-5195 or visit www.deafinconline.org
More information regarding resources for those with hearing loss may be found at www.deaflife.com and http://deaflibrary.org/ and http://webable.com/

Debtors Anonymous:

781-453-2743
Log on to www.mymoney.gov for credit information.

Debt Management Assistance:
Counseling services are available to help people budget money and pay bills.
For assistance with debt problems contact the American Consumer Credit Counseling at www.consumercredit.com or call 1-800-769-3571.  Also, InCharge Institute of America at www.incharge.org or call 1-800-565-8953.  Money Management International may be reached at www.moneymanagement.org or 1-866-899-9347.  Another source is www.myvesta.org or call 1-800-680-3328.
For a free "My Money" tool kit log on to www.mymoney.gov

Dementia:
For the "Safe Return" program call 888-572-8566 or visit www.medicalert.org/safereturn This program offers a member ID jewelry with personalized information and a 24 hour emergency toll-free number with response service.  This service is designed to reunite family members if a loved one has wandered.
For additional resources call the Helpline at 800-272-3900 staffed 24 hours.

Department of Public Health (DPH):
Information is available on a variety of healthy aging and chronic disease programs at www.mass.gov/dph or 617-624-6000.

Depression:
www.menandcoping.net www.mddaboston.org www.familyaware.org
Symptoms of depression include persistent sad, anxious or "empty" mood; feelings of hopelessness, pessimism; feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness; loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities once enjoyed; decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down"; difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions; Insomnia, early-morning awakening or oversleeping; appetite and/or weight changes; Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts; Restlessness, irritability.  If you have symptoms of depression, talk to a physician, psychiatrist or psychologist regarding treatment options.  Many seniors suffer from depression following a stroke.  Visit the website www.strokeassociation.org/depression

Diabetes:
Diabetes mellitus is a progressive disease in which your body doesn't make enough insulin and doesn't respond properly to insulin.  Insulin is a hormone made in the pancreas and converts sugar, starches and other foods into energy.  If you have diabetes, your blood glucose ("blood sugar") levels are too high.  Persistent high levels of blood glucose cause symptoms that may alert you to the development of diabetes.  These include hunger; extreme thirst; frequent urination; unexplained weight loss; fatigue and blurry vision.
The American Diabetes Association has two resources to help you put together a health care team.  The Education Recognition Program lists diabetes educators who have high quality programs to help you learn to take better care of your diabetes.  The Diabetes Physician Recognition Program lists physicians who have met standards for providing high quality care to patients with diabetes.  Log on to www.diabetes.org or www.store.diabetes.org or call 1-800-342-2383 or 1-800-232-6733 or write to 1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria VA 22311 to learn more.  More information may be found at www.americanheart.org/diabetes or call 1-800-242-8721.
For more information visit www.stopdiabetes.com

Dial-A-Lawyer:
To speak to an attorney, free of charge, call 617-338-0610 (available the first Wednesday of every month from 5:30 to 7:30pm.

Disabilities:
The Disabled Persons Protection Commission can be reached at 800-426-9009 or visit the website www.mass.gov/dppc
The Massachusetts Office on Disability is located at One Ashburton Place, Room 1305 Boston MA 02108 at 617-727-7440 or visit the website http://mass.gov/mod/
The Mass Senior Action Council promotes the rights and dignity of all people including those with disabilities - call 6177-442-3330 or www.masssenioraction.org
Visit www.madil.org for disabilities information
For a database of personal care attendants visit www.rewardingwork.org
For a housing database for affordable, accessible housing visit www.massaccesshousingregistry.org
www.masslegalhelp.org

Discrimination:
The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination enforces the Commonwealth's anti-discrimination laws in employment, housing, public accommodations, credit, mortgages, lending and education.  Call 617-994-6000 or visit www.mass.gov/mcad
The National Caucus and Center on Black Aged works to eliminate obstacles to fairness and equal access for low-income African American and minority senior citizens focusing on housing, employment and health promotion/disease prevention - contact 202-637-8400 or www.ncba-aged.org

Diversity:
The Department of Mental Health's Office of Multicultural Affairs publishes a detailed list of organizations that provide culturally sensitive and appropriate services to elders in Massachusetts.  Call 617-626-8134 for information.

Do Not Call Registry:
A free way for consumers to register their phone numbers to prohibit certain telephone solicitations 1-866-231-2255 or online www.mass.gov/donotcall or write to MA Do Not Call Program PO Box 1348 Boston MA 02117

Domestic Violence Hotline:
If you or someone you know is involved in an abusive relationship there is someone who can help.  Confidentiality is ensured and assistance is available 24 hours a day at the National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Hotline staff and volunteers have access to translators in 139 languages.  Visit the website www.ndvh.org The SafeLink 24 hour hotline is available at 877-521-2601 or visit the website http://www.casamyrna.org/
To contact the "Address Confidentiality Program" designed to provide a confidential mail forwarding system for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking call 1-866-SAFE-ADD or visit the website http://www.sec.state.ma.us/acp
www.masslegalhelp.org

Drivers with Dementia:
Driving Behavior Warning Signs -
1.  Decrease in confidence while driving
2.  Difficulty turning to see
3.  Riding the brake
4.  Easily distracted when driving
5.  Other drivers honking horns
6.  Incorrect signalling
7.  Difficulty parking in a defined space
8.  Hitting curbs
9.  Scrapes or dents on the car, mailbox, garage
10. Increased agitation when driving
11. Failure to notice important roadside activity
12. Failure to notice traffic signs
13. Trouble navigating turns
14. Driving at inappropriate speeds
15. Not anticipating potientially dangerous situations
16. Relying more frequently on a "copilot"
17. Bad judgement making turns
18. Near misses
19. Delayed response to unexpected situations
20. Moving into the wrong lane
21. Difficulty maintaining lane position
22. Confusion at exits
23. Moving violations and warnings
24. Getting lost in familiar places
25. Accidents
26. Failure to stop at a sign or red light
27. Confusing the gas and brake pedals (Stop driving immediately)
28. Stopping in traffic for no apparent reasons (Stop driving immediately)

Resources are available for those assisting a loved one:
AARP - www.aarp.org
Alzheimer's Association - www.alz.org
Alzheimer's Education and Referral Center - www.alzheimers.org
American Medical Association Guidelines for Older Drivers - www.ama-aan.org
American Occupational Therapy Association - www.aota.org
Eldercare Locator - www.eldercare.gov
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - www.nhtsa.gov

To receive a free brochure titled: "At the Crossroads - Family Conversations about Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia & Driving" visit www.thehartford.com/alzheimers
or write: The Hartford 200 Executive Blvd, Southington CT 06489
Another informative site is: www.thehartford.com/talkwitholderdrivers

Driving Evaluation Programs:
A driving evaluation program is available at New England Rehabilitation Hospital at 2 Rehabilitation Way, Woburn MA 781-935-5050 or Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital 125 Nashua Street, Boston MA 02114; 617-573-7000 or VA New England Healthcare System 940 Belmont Ave, Brockton MA 02310; 508-583-4500.  Phone the RMV Medical Affairs Bureau PO Box 55889 Boston MA 02205, phone 617-351-9222.

Drivers License:
Information may be obtained at www.massgov/rmv
Or write: Executive Office of Transportation 25 Newport Ave Box 55889, Quincy MA 02205-5889 or call 617-351-4500 or 1-800-858-3926.  The Registrar's Office may be reached at 617-973-7000 or 1-800-472-9829.  Toll free automated assistance is available at 1-866-627-7768.

Driver Safety Information:
Automobile Association of America - www.seniordrivers.org
American Association of Retired Persons - www.aarp.org
American Medical Association - www.nhtsa.gov 888-327-4236

Elder Abuse Hotline:
It is estimated that over 2.1 millions elders in the US are abused or neglected every year.  Protective services are available by calling 781-272-7177 or 978-263-8720 or call the 24 hour hotline at
1-800-922-2275 or 1-800-243-4636.  Further information is available at www.800ageinfo.com

Elder Law:
Elder law includes planning for catastrophic care costs; disability planning; age discrimination in employment and housing; benefits planning including Medicaid and Medicare; guardianships, probate and estate planning.  Contact NAELA, PO Box 67137 Chestnut Hill MA 02467 or phone 617-566-5640 or fax 617-734-9758 or email
Lawyer referral service is available by calling 617-654-0400 or 1-866-627-7577.
The Elder Law Unit provides assistance to elderly legal immigrants who are losing their SSI and food stamp benefits and the Medicare Advocacy Project assists elders with disabilities in securing full coverage under Medicare.  For more information visit www.gbls.org or call 800-323-3205 or 617-603-2700.
Free legal counseling for those age 60 and older with economic and social needs is available at www.livejustice.org or call 800-649-3718 or 508-752-3718 or 508-765-9290.
The Executive Office of Elder Affairs is available at 800-243-4636 or www.800ageinfo.com
The Massachusetts Attorney General's Elder Hotline may be reached at 888-243-5337 or visit www.ago.state.ma.us
The Massachusetts Legal Help website is available at www.masslegalhelp.org
To locate a private attorney specializing in elder law call 617-566-5640 or visit www.manaela.org
The National Senior Citizens Law Center focuses on legal needs of poor vulnerable elders and the disabled call 202-289-6976 or visit www.nsclc.org
The "Legal Guide for Older Americans" is available at the American Bar Association Commission on Law and Aging 740 15th Street, N.W. Washington DC 20005-1022 or call 202-662-8690 or visit www.abanet.org

Eldercare Locator:
800-677-1116
www.eldercare.gov

Elder Hotline:
Find information regarding credit and debt; guardianship; Health Care Proxy; home improvement; identity fraud; long term care; mail solicitations; sweepstakes; telemarketing and tenant's rights.
The Hotline is staffed by senior volunteers and serves as a comprehensive resource for information and referral on a full range of concerns.  Call 1-888-243-5337 for free assistance or mediation services.  Write to the Office of the Attorney General, One Ashburton Place Boston MA 02108 for additional resources.

Elected Officials:
Your legislators want to hear from you.  To identify your state representative and senator visit the Secretary of State's website at www.wheredoivotema.com
To contact the governor visit www.state.ma.us/gov/contact.htm
To speak with the State House switchboard call 617-722-2000 or write your legislator at State House Boston MA 02133.

Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC):
This state funded program provides cash assistance to those in need to stabilize their lives.  Program requirements:
Meet one or more of the following requirements:
1.  Unable to work due to a physical or mental incapacity which has lasted or will last at least 60 days and meets the Department established medical standards for disability.
2.  Over age 65 and waiting for SSI payments to begin.
3.  Caring for a child living in the home and not related to the individual.
4.  Participating in a Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission program; or
5.  Required to be in the home to care for an incapacitated individual who would have to be institutionalized if someone does not provide the care in the home.
In addition, must meet income and asset limits and be a US citizen or legal immigrant.
To apply, contact the local Transitional Assistance Office or visit www.mass.gov for further information.

Emergency Disaster Training:
Contact the Salvation Army at 617-542-5420 or visit the website www.salvationarmy-ma.org

Emergency Shelter:
A home-like setting for women and children escaping domestic violence offers a 90 day stay in a confidential location.  Call the Refuge Education Advocacy Change at 800-899-4000 or 781-891-0724.
Or contact Respond Inc at 617-623-5900.

Employment:
The Career Place is located at the Trade Center Park 100 Sylvan Road, Woburn 781-932-5500.
The YMCA-Adult Learning Center is located at 33 Plympton Street, Woburn 781-935-6499.
For tips on getting paid employment, even if you have a chronic illness or disability visit www.workwithoutlimits.org

End of Life Care:
The Massachusetts End of Life Commission may be reached at 617-624-5424 or www.endoflifecommission.org
Or contact the Massachusetts Compassionate Care Coalition at 617-964-1692 or at www.massccc.com
Another source of information is www.betterending.org or call 508-767-9877 for publications.
The Massachusetts Hospice Directory may be obtained by calling 800-962-2973 or 781-255-7077 or visit www.hospicefed.org
The Compassionate Friends will provide bereavement support at 630-990-0010 or visit www.compassionatefriends.org
Additional support groups are available at www.growthhouse.org or www.bereavementmag.com
The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization may be reached at www.caringinfo.org
Caregivers may also find www.stoppain.org or www.healingchronicpain.org useful.
Additional end of life resources may be found at www.apa.org or www.cancer.gov or www.aarp.org

Energy Efficiency Programs:
At MassSAVE energy efficiency specialists will answer your energy saving questions and determine your eligibility for a home energy assessment.  The assessment includes an analysis of your home's energy use, advice for saving energy and rebate offers on recommended energy improvements. 
Call 1-800-654-5833 for more information.  Lower income customers are able to view eligibility guidelines on the web site www.nstaronline.com

Executive Office of Elder Affairs:
Call 617-727-7750 or Fax 617-727-9368 or visit the website www.mass.gov/elder or write to One Ashburton Place, Boston MA 02108.

Exercise:
(Speak with your doctor to obtain an exercise program geared toward your personal needs.)
Tips for succeeding at physical activity:
Pick an activity you enjoy.
A little exercise is better than no exercise.
Start wherever you are on the fitness spectrum.
Start slow and build up your capacity over time.
Don't compare yourself to other people.
Chart your progress.
Share successes.
STOP physical activity if you experience problems and contact your doctor.  The American Heart Association has a website www.hearthub.org another excellent website to visit www.strokeassociation.org has tips for getting active and staying active.  You may also call 1-888-478-7653 for further tips.

Eye Care Program:
Senior EyeCare ensures that every senior has access to medical eye care and promotes annual, dilated eye exams.  It is designed for people who are US citizens or legal residents, age 65 and over, have not seen an ophthalmologist in three or more years and do not belong to an HMO or the VA.  Call 800-222-3937 to request free eye care educational materials and determine if you qualify for care from one of EyeCare America's 7,500 volunteer ophthalmologists.  Also, visit the website www.eyecareamerica.org or call 866-324-3937 for further information.  Eye Care services are also offered by the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary including ophthalmology and cataract consultation; vision rehabilitation center; glaucoma service; retina service and optical shop and may be reached by calling 617-573-3202 or visit www.masseyeandear.org

Falls:
You may be at risk for falls if you answer "yes" to any of these questions:
1.  Have you fallen in the last year?
2.  Do you have difficulty with your sight?
3.  Do you have difficulty getting to a standing position?
4.  When you stand up, do you sometimes feel dizzy or light-headed?
5.  Do you take 4 or more medications per day?
6.  Are you feeling depressed?
7.  Do you find it difficult to walk due to stiffness, weakness or pain?
8.  Do you make hurried trips to the bathroom?
It is estimated that one in three Americans over age 65 will experience a fall this year.  Ask your doctor for recommendations to prevent falls.
You may want to consider a "Personal Response System" so that you can summon help in the case of an emergency.

Inclusion of a specific agency does not imply a recommendation or endorsement of programs, services or products.

A few Personal Response Systems in the area are listed here so that you may compare costs and services:
* Comfort Keepers Emergency Monitoring System: 781-721-5522
* Lahey Lifeline Program: 1-800-978-7798
* Lifeline Systems: 800-543-3546 www.lifelinesys.com or www.lifelinesystems.com
* Hallmark Health Lifeline Program: 877-896-6600
* New England Emergency Response Systems: 800-888-0338 www.neers.com
* Winchester Hospital Lifeline 800-242-1306; 781-756-4752

Fair Debt Collection:
Creditors and collection agencies may not tell anyone about your debt, without your written consent.  For detailed information about fair debt collection, request the Attorney General's Guide to Consumer Credit at 617-727-2200 or visit the website www.mass.gov/ago

Fake Check Scams:
Fake checks, including cashiers checks, can look so real even bank tellers can be fooled.  However, just because you can withdraw the money, doesn't mean the check is good.  Forgeries can take weeks to discover.  YOU are responsible for the checks you deposit.  If a check bounces, you owe the bank any money you withdrew.  If someone wants to send you a check, insist on a cashier's check for the exact amount, preferably from a local bank or one with a branch in your area.  Never accept a check and then agree to send a portion of the money back to the sender.  For scam information call 1-800-876-7060 or log on to www.fraud.org or www.fakecheck.org

Family Skill Building:
Parenting education classes for those parenting children ages birth to 12 years are offered one evening per week for seven weeks. 
The Family Skill Building program also runs a supervised visitation program, providing a safe, neutral environment where parents and children can spend quality time together.  Call 781-935-6495, extension 217.
The programs are managed by Council of Social Concern, 2 Merrimac Street, Woburn.  Visit www.socialconcern.org

Federal Communications Commission:
The last day of analog broadcasting is February 17, 2009.  With this change TV with rabbit ears or rooftop antenna will not work after February 17, 2009 without a digital converter.  You do not need a converter if your TV is hooked up to cable or satellite service, or you have recently purchased a TV and it has a built in digital tuner.  Beginning in 2008 you can get up to 2 free coupons each worth $40 to purchase a TV converter.  For more information call 1-888-388-2009 or log on to www.dtv.gov or www.DTV2009.gov

Financial Calculator Websites:
www.kiplinger.com www.moneymag.com www.usnews.com www.asec.org www.finra.org

Financial Planning:
Financial management includes a monthly budget with income and expenses specified that allows you to calculate expected cash flow; A review of health insurance plans; An assessment of assets and debt that allows you to calculate your net worth; Designation of someone to handle your finances if you become unable.  The Financial Planning Association website is www.fpanet.org The Massachusetts chapter may be reached by calling 866-804-0484 or visit the website www.fpama.org
Worksheets to track expenses may be found at the website www.aarp.org/money
To quickly determine whether an elder meets eligibility requirements for certain services visit the website www.benefitscheckup.org

Financial Resources:
1.  Social Security Administration 1-800-772-1213
2.  US Department of Veteran's Affairs 1-800-827-1000
3.  Massachusetts Department of Veterans Services 617-210-5480
4.  Medicare Advocacy Project 1-800-323-3205
5.  MassHealth Customer Service 1-800-841-2900
6.  Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) 617-348-8400
www.masslegalhelp.org

Fire Safety:
1.  Have smoke alarms that work.  Check the batteries.  You need at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home and inside or near sleeping areas.
2.  Make a home escape plan.  Know how to get out of every room of your home.
3.  Keep escape routes clear.  Clean out clutter.  Make sure doors and windows open easily.
4.  Keep a phone in your bedroom to call for help if you can't get out quickly.
5.  If you are a smoker, wet cigarette and cigar butts with water before putting them in the trash.  Beware of cigarettes that may have fallen in and around furniture cushions.
6.  Always stay in the kitchen when food is cooking on the stove.  Avoid loose clothing and roll up sleeves before cooking.  Use oven mitts.
7.  Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn and turn them off if you leave the room or plan to sleep.
8.  Plug only one cord into each electrical outlet.  Make sure cords and appliances are in good shape.
9.  Contact your local fire department for further tips and information.
Visit the website www.homesafetycouncil.org
For additional information contact the Department of Fire Services - PO Box 1025 State Road, Stow MA  01775; 978-567-3100 or log on to www.mass.gov/dfs or www.mass.gov/keepwarmkeepsafe

"The Five Wishes":
For a booklet to open a discussion about end of life issues and critical situations call 1-888-5WISHES.
or "Caring Conversations" at 1-800-344-3829.

Flu Prevention:
For flu facts visit www.mass.gov/dph/flu

Food Pantry:
For information call the Food Pantry Program at 781-935-6495, ext 208.  The Food Pantry is located at 2 Merrimac Street in Woburn and provides food to individuals and families living in Woburn and Winchester.  Use of the food pantry is limited to once per month.  Pre-arranged appointments can be made on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to Noon and 1:30pm to 3pm and also Wednesdays from 6pm to 7pm.  Thanksgiving and Christmas Holiday Food baskets are also distributed.  The Food Pantry accepts donations of non-perishable food that is within the expiration date Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

Food Safety:
For FDA information call 1-800-332-4010 or visit www.foodsafety.gov or www.recalls.gov
For food handling information contact www.fightbac.org or www.fsis.usda.gov
For the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline call 1-888-674-6854.

Food Source Hotline:
Project Bread's toll-free FoodSource Hotline provides information and referral in Massachusetts for people facing hunger.  Call 1-800-645-8333 for information regarding food stamps and nutrition programs.  The FoodSource Hotline is also able to serve deaf callers through it's TTY line:  1-800-377-1292.  Translator services are available.  Visit www.projectbread.org or www.gettingsnap.org
Also, "The Dwelling Place", 523 Main Street in Woburn offers meals every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday night at 5:30pm.
The Food Pantry provides emergency food assistance to residents of Woburn and Winchester and is located at 2 Merrimac Street, Woburn or call 781-935-6495.
WIC (Women, Infants & Children) provides food vouchers and nutrition services for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under age five at 8 Summer Street, Woburn call 781-938-5161.

Food Stamps Program:
An Electronic Benefits Transfer card, similar to a debit card, may be used like cash to pay for food at most grocery stores.  The program is designed for people with limited income and few resources.  If you qualify, the amount of money you receive depends on your total net income, family size, and where you live.  Contact the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance at 1-866-950-3663 or visit 200 Pleasant Street, Malden at 781-388-7300 or log on to www.gettingfoodstamps.org
You may also write to:  Department of Transitional Assistance, 600 Washington Street, Boston MA 02111 or call 1-800-445-6604 for a food stamp program brochure.

Foreclosure:
If you miss your mortgage payments, foreclosure may occur.  For information on services and programs offered by government agencies as well as private and community organizations that could help contact a HUD-approved housing counseling agency at 1-800-569-4287.  To speak with a HUD-approved credit counselor call 1-888-995-HOPE (4673) who will discuss your options.  Also visit www.hud.gov
www.masslegalhelp.org

Free Publications:
Visit www.pueblo.gsa.gov or call 1-888-878-3256 or write FCIC-08C at PO Box 100 Pueblo, CO 81002 for free publications regarding the departments of homeland security, energy, interior, justice, labor, transportation and more.

Fuel Assistance: 
The Tri-Cap Fuel Assistance program serves residents of Everett, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Stoneham, Winchester and Woburn.   The Fuel Assistance program helps low-income homeowners and renters pay a portion of the cost of heating (oil, gas, electric, rent if heat is included in rent) their homes.  Eligibility is based on current gross income and household size.  Applications are available by calling 781-322-6284.
Visit www.tri-cap.org
Further assistance information is available by contacting the MA Energy Assistance Programs Heat Line 800-632-8175 or the Salvation Army Good Neighbor Energy Fund at 800-334-3047 or www.salvation/ma.org  www.magoodneighbor.org  For oil heat only, contact Citizen's Energy at 1-877-563-4645 or log on to www.citizensenergy.com
Another source is the Community Teamworks at 1-978-459-6161 or www.comteam.org
The MassEnergy Consumers Alliance at www.massenergy.org can be reached at 1-800-287-3950.
Contact the HEATLINE at 1-800-632-8175 (or for Boston only 617-357-6012) or visit www.mass.gov/dhcd
The local Salvation Army Service Center can be reached at 800-262-1320 or www.salvationarmy-ma.org .

Gamblers Anonymous:
617-338-6020

Geriatric Care Managers:
Call 617-426-3533 or write to the New England branch 198 Tremont Street, Boston MA 02116-4705 or log on to www.gemnewengland.org

Glaucoma:
Glaucoma is an eye disease in which the normal fluid pressure inside the eyes slowly rises, leading to vision loss- or even blindness.  Although open-angle glaucoma cannot be cured, treatments are available.  To learn more about glaucoma write to the National Eye Health Education Program 2020 Vision Place Bethesda MD 20892-3655. 

Grief Support Services:
"SafePlace" is an open, confidential support group for individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide.  The "Survivor to Survivor" network provides an opportunity for families who have recently lost someone to suicide to meet with trained volunteers who are also suicide survivors.  Call The Samaritans at 617-536-2460 or call the statewide toll-free number at 1-877-870-HOPE or visit www.samaritanshope.org

Grocery List:
To access free heart-healthy grocery list visit the website www.heartcheckmark.org for a list of foods certified by the American Heart Association to be low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

Group Adult Foster Care:
Administered by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) is a Medicaid program that reimburses providers for providing administrative and clinical oversight and daily assistance with personal care services to financially and clinically eligible elderly and disabled individuals who are at risk for institutionalization.  To qualify you must be age 22 and older, meet financial criteria, reside in a certified assisted living residence (for SSIG eligibility), be serviced by a certified GAFC provider, have physician authorization of a medical diagnosis that deems GAFC appropriate, require daily assistance with at least one ADL related to a medical diagnosis and receive clinical approval from an ASAP.  For further requirements and information call the Executive Office of Elder Affairs at 617-222-7486 and the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.

Guardianship:
AdvoGuard, Inc. is a non-profit MA organization that works with courts, hospitals and health professionals to provide guardianship services for elderly, disabled and indigent persons who are no longer able to care for themselves.  Call 781-982-1577 or visit the website www.advoguard.org
For legal advocacy and resources call 1-800-342-LAWS or 617-423-0648 or go to the website www.vlpnet.org
A Functional Assessment involves the examination of an individual's behavior in order to assess contextual capacity.  Functional assessments recognize that an individual may be incapacitated for some purposes, but not for others.
A Cognitive Assessment, sheds light on an individual's orientation to time, place, person, and intellectual functioning, such as the Mini Mental State Examination and the Mental Status Questionaire.

Guide to Senior Housing and Care:
Published since 1987, New LifeStyles FREE directories of senior housing and care options are available in 50 areas throughout the US and Canada.  Call 1-800-869-9549 for directories or log on to www.newlifestyles.com
or write:  4144 North Central Expressway, Suite 1000 Dallas Texas 75204.

Hard of Hearing Advocates:
Call 508-875-8662 or visit the website http://hohadvocates.org/ or write 245 Prospect Street Framingham MA 01701.
The Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is located at www.mass.gov/mcdhh or 1-800-882-1155.

Health and Human Services:
The Executive Office of Health and Human Services plans, advocates, coordinates, and administers programs and polices that assure access to high quality health care, and enhances opportunities for older people to learn about their own health at 617-573-1600 or www.mass.gov/eohhs
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services may be contacted at 1-877-696-6775 or www.hhs.gov

The Massachusetts Psychological Association is a resource for psychologists, students and the general public to learn about psychology and human behavior at 781-263-0080 or www.masspsych.org

The Mass Psychiatric Society is committed to providing exceptional medical and psychiatric care through accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of mental disorders and emotional illnesses at 781-237-8100 or www.psychiatry-mps.org

The National Association of Social Workers may be found at www.naswma.org or 1-888-294-6279.

The American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry may be reached at 301-654-7850 or www.aagpgpa.org

Health Care Fraud:
Visit the website "Empowering seniors to prevent healthcare fraud" at www.smpresource.org
If you suspect Medicare fraud call 1-800-243-4636 or visit the website www.mymedicare.gov

Health Care Information:
The Massachusetts Healath Care Quality and Cost Council was established as part of health reform law.  To become educated about the impact of health care choices on the cost of health care log on to http://hcqcc.hcf.state.ma.us/ which is designed to promote transparency in the health care industry.

Health Care Proxy:
The Massachusetts Health Care Proxy Law permits you to appoint an "Agent" who will serve as a health care proxy to act on your behalf and communicate your wishes if you are unable to do so.  To ensure that your treatment wishes are followed in the event of incapacity, you should select someone you trust and make sure your agent fully understands your instructions and is prepared to carry them out.  Forms are available at:  www.betterending.org     www.massmed.org      www.hospicefed.org  www.endoflifecommission.org     www.massmed.org/ma_proxy

Health Insurance:
Do not base your health insurance decision solely on promotional materials or conversations with representatives.  Some companies sell separate "riders", at additional cost, to add more coverage to their basic policies.  Review the member handbooks carefully to see what each plan covers.  Look for a plan that allows you to receive care from the doctors, hospitals and clinics that are important to you.  For assistance contact the Division of Insurance at 617-521-7794 or log on to www.mass.gov/doi
The Children's Medical Security Plan may be reached at 1-800-909-2677. 
MassHealth Customer Service may be reached at 1-800-841-2900.
Commonwealth Care may be reached at 1-877-623-6765.
Or call 1-800-AGE-INFO or 617-727-7750.
The Division of Insurance for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is located at One South Station, 5th Floor Boston MA 02110 at 617-521-7575.

Hearing Aid Financial Assistance:
Check your health insurance coverage to see if they will cover the expense before exploring options for financial assistance.
Check the website http://massachusettsstatekofc.org/ or contact the Knights of Columbus at PO Box 194, 470 Washington Street Norwood MA 02062 or call 781-551-0628. 
Another resource is the MA Commission for the Deaf at 617-740-1600. 
The American Medical Resources Foundation recycles hearing aids and can be reached at 401-789-4527 or visit the website http://amrf.com/
The Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing provides services and coordinates public policies, regulations and programs for people who are deaf or hard of hearing at 1-800-882-1155; or TTY 1-800-530-7570 or www.mass.gov/mcdhh

Hearing Dog Service:
A service animal assists a person in maintaining independence.  Contact the Delta Society at 875 124th Avenue NE, Suite 101 Bellevue WA 98005 or call 425-679-5500 or visit the website http://www.deltasociety.org
Another option is the Assistance Dog Program at 1-800-284-3647 or log on to http://assistancedogunitiedcampaign.org/ or call the National Hearing Dog Center at 978-249-9264.

Heart or risk-related information:
Log on to www.americanheart.org or call 1-800-242-8721.  For stroke information contact the American Stroke Association at 1-888-478-7653 or visit www.strokeassociation.org  or www.ninds.nih.gov or call 1-800-352-9424. 
Information from the American Heart Association:
Classic signs of a heart attack:  Pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain in the center of the chest; Chest discomfort; Pain that spreads to the shoulders, neck, or arms.  Less common signs of heart attack include chest, stomach or abdominal pain; Nausea or dizziness without chest pain; Shortness of breath; Trouble breathing without chest pain; Unexplained anxiety, weakness or fatigue; Palpitations, cold sweat or paleness.  Calling 911 is the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment.  For further information contact 1-800-AHA-USA1 or 1-888-MY-HEART or 1-888-4STROKE.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension):
One in Four American adults have high blood pressure and many are unaware.  Untreated high blood pressure can lead to stroke; heart attack; heart failure and kidney failure.  Talk with your health care professional to learn more.  Information is also available from the American Heart Association at 1-800-242-8721 or the American Stroke Association at 1-888-478-7653.  Log on to www.americanheart.org

Hoarding:
www.childrenofhoarders.com

Home Care:
For information regarding home care services contact Minuteman Senior Services located at 24 Third Ave, Burlington MA 01803 or call 781-272-7177 or visit the website www.minutemansenior.org
For the "Guide to Choosing a Home Care Agency: Important Questions You Should Ask" call 617-727-2200 ext. 2674.
The Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts is a statewide organization representing home health care agencies that provide nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and home health aide services to elders in their homes at 617-482-8830 or www.hcalliancema.org
Another website of interest is www.masshomecare.org or www.maseniorcare.org
The National Association of Home Care and Hospice may be reached at 202-547-7424 or www.nahc.org
The Boston Senior Home Care is located at 89 South Street, #501, 5th Boston MA 02111 at 617-451-6400 or 617-292-6211.
The Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts, Inc. at 31 St. James Ave, Suite 780 Boston MA 02116 at phone 617-482-8830 or fax 617-426-0509 at www.thinkhomecare.org provides a "Guide to Private Home Care Services - A Directory of Private Home Care Agencies in Massachusetts".
Middlesex County Home Care Services:
ABC Home & Healthcare Professionals 781-245-1880
Able Home Care, LLC 781-581-1181
Ace Medical Services 508-792-3800
Advantage Home Health 508-584-2900
All Care VNA & Hospice 781-598-7066
Amazing Grace Private Nursing Care, Inc. 781-337-1516
At Home Elder Care Inc. 781-843-7151
Best Home Care 781-224-3600
Care Solutions, Inc. 508-366-1766
Caritas Home Care 781-551-5700
Centrus Premier Home Care, Inc. 508-747-3521
Comfort Keepers of MetroWest 617-965-5200
Comfort Keepers of Northwest Boston 781-721-5522
Commonwealth Clinical Services, Inc. 617-846-7676
Community Health Network, Inc. 508-429-6949
Convenient Home Services 781-642-0880
Dovetail Health 866-566-3683
Freedom Home Care 781-593-7174
Greater Medford VNA 781-396-2633
Hallmark Health Home Care 781-338-7887
Harmon Home Health, Inc. 877-227-3414
Home Care Assistance 866-454-8346
Home Health VNA 978-552-4000
Home Instead Senior Care 508-393-8338
Home Instead Senior Care 781-402-0060
HouseWork, LLC 617-928-1010
Jewish Family Service of MetroWest 508-875-3100
LivHome, Inc. 617-527-1663
Medical Resources Home Health Corp. 866-672-2273
Metropolitan Home Health Services 781-643-9115
Multicultural Home Care 800-983-6242 or 339-440-1934
New Century Homecare Services, Inc. 508-653-8512
New England Home Health Services, Inc. 781-821-1200
New Outlook Homecare, LLC 617-454-1190
Northeast Clinical Services, Inc. 888-755-8200
Nurses R Us, Inc. Home Care Services 866-961-0804
Overlook VNA, Inc. & Hospice Services 508-755-5550
Partners Private Care 781-290-4000
Personal Touch of North Chelmsford 800-224-0594
Ports of Care Private Duty Agency 617-242-7404
Premier Home Health Care 800-675-8339
Right at Home 781-275-1400
Senior Bridge Family Companies 866-506-1212
Senior Helpers 781-569-6700
Standards Care Staffing 978-922-0088
Suburban Home Health Care, Inc. 617-264-7100
T.L. Connections, Inc. 978-858-0221
Visiting Angels of Acton/Boxborough 978-263-1212
Visiting Angels of Newton 617-795-2727
VNA Care Network/VNA Care Hospice 800-728-1862
VNA of Eastern Mass, Inc. 800-696-6666
VNA of Middlesex-East 800-607-4299
VNA Private Care 781-431-1484
Walpole Area VNA 508-668-1066
Winchester Home Care 781-756-2488

Home Improvement:
For general information and advice about planning your home improvement project, contact the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) at 1-800-611-6274 or log on to www.nari.org  or the Home Builders Association of Massachusetts at 1-800-632-8168 or log on to www.hbama.com

A free home safety and functional consultation is available from "Home Access Solutions" at 508-904-8448 or www.home-access-solutions.com to provide home safety assessment; installation of handrails or grab bars; arrangement of furniture; height adjustment of counters and closet bars; installation of hand-held shower faucets; installation of ramps and clutter removal.  Following the initial consultation, fees will apply for modifications and equipment - payment is the responsibility of the client.

Home Modification Funding Sources:
1.  Vocational Rehabilitation Program:  617-204-3724 - serves consumers with disabilities who are pursuing vocational/employment goals with needs for home modification.
2.  Independent Living Center: Title VII Part B funding for the purchase of equipment and services to assist people to maintain or achieve independence call 617-204-3628.
3.  Statewide Head Injury Program and Turning 22-IL Program:  To discuss adaptive housing needs call 617-204-3852 or 617-204-3851.
4.  Home Modification Loan Program:  617-204-3739 or www.mass.gov/mrc/hmlp
5.  The Massachusetts Assistive Technology Loan Program:  800-244-2756 or 100-564-9700 or www.massatloan.org
6.  Massachusetts Commission for the Blind Title VII Part B:  Assists blind individuals to maintain or achieve independence call 617-626-7580.
7.  Department of Mental Retardation:  www.mass.gov/dmr
8.  Masssachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs:  www.800ageinfo.com or 617-727-7750 or 800-243-4636.
9.  Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund:  Assists families bear the excessive financial burdens associated with the care of children with special health care needs and disabilities call 800-882-1435 or www.mass.goov/cicrf
10.  Mass Housing, Home Improvement Loan Program:  Assists with necessary home modifications call 617-854-1000 or www.masshousing.com
11.  Central Co-operative Bank, Special Needs Loans:  Funding for special needs customers in the purchasing of special equipment, retrofitting motor vehicles and homes call 617-629-4240.
12.  Rebuilding Together:  Uses community resources and volunteers to provide free home modifications and repairs for elders and individuals with disabilities.  Call 617-971-0058 or www.rebuildingtogether.org
13.  Community Development Block Grant Program:  www.hud.gov
14.  Home Improvement Loans and Grants:  www.rurdev.usda.gov/ma/housing.htm or 508-829-4477.
15.  Department of Veteran's Affairs:  www.va.gov for veterans with service disabilities or call 800-827-1000.  Adapted Housing Program allows verterans to receive a grant of 50% of the cost of specially adapted housing unit up to a maximum of $60,000.
16.  Homes for our Troops:  Assists severely injured Servicement and Women and their immediate famillies.  Call 866-7-TROOPS or www.homesforourtroops.org
17.  Muscular Dystrophy Association:  www.mda.org or call 617-368-9155.
18.  Multiple Sclerosis Society:  www.nationalmssociety.org or call 781-890-4990 or 800-493-9255.
19.  Spina Bifida Association:  www.masbaweb.org or call 888-479-1900.
20.  United Cerebral Palsy: www.ucpboston.org or 617-926-5480.
21.  Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Association:  www.als-ma.org or 781-326-4600.
22.  American Heart and Stroke Association: www.americanheart.org or www.strokeassociation.org or call 508-620-1700.
23.  American Parkinson's Disease Association: www.apdama.org or 617-638-8466.
24.  Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts: www.biama.org or 508-475-0032.
25.  Federation for Children with Speical Needs:  www.fcsn.org or 617-236-7210.
26. Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission at www.mass.gov/mrc provides no-interest and low-interest loans to modify homes.

Home Modification Loan Program:
Provides low and no interest loans to modify the homes of adults and children with disabilities and elders.  $1000 up to $30,000 may be borrowed in either a deferred payment loan or an amortized loan to make access modifications to the primary, permanent residence not limited to ramps, lifts, widened doorways, bathroom and kitchen modifications.  Visit the website www.comteam.org or www.mass.gov/mrc/hmlp at 617-204-3724 or call 978-459-0551 or write Community Teamwork 167 Dutton Street, Lowell MA 01852.
The Home Modification Loan Program is managed through the Mass Rehabilitation Commission at 27-43 Wormwood Street, Boston MA 02210-1606.

2008 income guidelines for a 0% loan:
1 person household up to $60,100
2 person household up to $68,600

Provider Agencies:
Western MA apply to:
HAP, Inc. 413-233-1615
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission 413-781-6045
Central MA apply to:
RCAP Solutions Financial Services 978-630-6725 or 1-800-4888-1969
Northeast/North Shore apply to:
Community Teamwork, Inc. 978-459-0551
MetroWest Area apply to:
South Middlesex Opportunity Council, Inc. 508-620-2682
Southeastern MA/Cape/Islands apply to:
South Middlesex Opportunity Council, Inc. 508-202-5919
Metropolitan Boston apply to:
Metropolitan Boston Housing Partnership 617-425-6637

Home Repair:
Operation Independence, 325 School Street - Watertown MA  02472
617-923-4545

www.masslegalhelp.org - Legal assistance for all types of issues.

Home Safety:
Visit the Home Safety Council at www.homesafetycouncil.org
Visit the Massachusetts Statewide Independent Living Council at www.masilc.org/membership/cils

"Project Safe Home" - Keeping Elders with Vision Loss Safe at Home - The Carroll Center 770 Centre St, Newton MA 02458; 617-969-6200 or 800-852-3131 www.carroll.org (secure handrails, highlight thresholds, install grab-bars; label appliances with raised markings etc).

Hospice:
The Hospice and Palliative Care Federation of Massachusetts provides education and technical assistance, public awareness and referral to professionals, patients and families at 1-800-962-2973 or www.hospicefed.org
The National Association of Home Care and Hospice may be reached at 202-547-7424 or www.nahc.org

Hospitals with Gero-Psychiatric Units in Massachusetts:
1.  Carney Hospital - 2100 Dorchester Ave, Dorchester MA 02124  at 617-296-4000
2.  Caritas Good Samaritan Medical Center - 235 North Pearl Street, Brockton MA 02301
     at 508-427-3000
3.  Caritas Norwood Hospital - 800 Washington Street, Norwood MA 02062 at 781-769-4000
4.  Henry Heywood Memorial Hospital - 242 Green Street, Gardner MA 01440 at 978-632-3420
5.  Lawrence Memorial Hospital - 200 Governors Ave, Medford MA 02155 at 781-306-6000
6.  McLean Hospital - 115 Mill Street, Belmont MA 02478 at 617-855-2000
7.  Merrimack Valley Hospital - 140 Lincoln Ave, Haverhill MA 01830 at 978-374-2000
8.  Mount Auburn Hospital - 330 Mt. Auburn St., Cambridge MA 02138 at 617-492-3500
9.  Morton Hospital - 88 Washington St, Taunton MA 02780 at 508-828-7000
10. Quincy Medical Center - 114 Whitwell St, Quincy MA 02159 at 617-376-5431
11. UMass Memorial Health Care at Clinton Hospital - 201 Highland St, Clinton MA 01510  
     at 978-368-3000
12. Pembroke Hospital - 199 Oak St, Pembroke MA 02359 at 781-826-8161
13. Providence Hospital - 1233 Main St, Holyoke MA 01040 at 413-536-5111
14. Somerville Hospital - 230 Highland Ave, Somerville MA 02143 at 617-591-4250
15. Union Medical Center - 500 Lynnfield St, Lynn MA 01904 at 781-581-9200

Housing for people with disabilities:
The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission will provide information about accessible units in your community and assist with the application process.  Visit www.massaccesshousingregistry.org or write Mass Access Program at 18 Tremont Street, Boston MA 02108 or call 617-742-0820.  Subsidized housing across the state as well as private, market-rate apartments are included. 
Contact information for specific areas:
Berkshire County 413-442-7047
Boston 617-288-9431 or 6177-288-2707
Greater Boston 617-338-6665
Central Mass. 508-363-1226
Cape Cod 508-775-8300
South Shore 508-880-5325
North Shore 978-741-0077
Northeastern Mass. 978-687-4288
Fall River/New Bedford 508-679-9210
Hampshire Counties 413-256-0473
Metro West 508-875-7853

Housing Information Resources:
Alzheimer's Association - www.alz.org/ma or 800-272-3900
CJP Senior Direct - www.cjpseniordirect.org 800-980-1982

Hebrew Senior Life - www.hebrewrehab.org 617-363-8000 (non-denominational)

Housing Works -  www.housingworks.net 617-504-0577
Lutheran Social Services of New England - www.lssne.org/ 781-997-0814 (non-denominational)
Mass Access Housing Registry www.massaccesshousingregistry.org
Massachusetts Aging Services Association www.massaging.org
Massachusetts Assisted Living Facilities Association www.massalfa.org/ 781-622-5999
Massachusetts Dept of Housing and Community Development www.mass.gov/dhcd/ 617-573-1100
Massachusetts Extended Care Federation www.masslongtermcare.org 617-558-0202
Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs - www.mass.gov 617-727-7750
Mass Access: The Accessible Housing Registry - www.mnip-net.org 800-466-3111
MassResources - www.massresources.org
Metropolitan Boston Housing Partnership - www.mbhp.org 800-272-0990 or 617-8599-0400
Nuestra Communidad - www.nuestracdc.org 617-427-3599
Public Housing Authority - www.hud.gov
Assisted Living and Residential Care - www.ncal.org 800-628-8140
Retirement Communities: www.norcs.com
Senior Housing Net - www.seniorhousingnet.com

Search a database of all licensed facilities nationwide including assisted living, nursing homes and residential care homes at www.agingwellmag.com - click the Senior Housing Locator button.

Services for those with limited English speaking and economically disadvantaged people may seek housing counseling and immigrant assistance at the Asian American Civic Assoication www.aaca-boston.org or phone 617-426-9492.
Directions:  Take the MBTA Orange Line to New England Medical Center.  The office is located at 87 Tyler Street.

Housing Assistance:
The Woburn Housing Authority is located at 59 Campbell Street, Woburn 781-935-0818. 
The Winchester Housing Authority is located at 13 Westly Street, Winchester 781-721-5718.  The "RAFT" Program of the Metropolitan Boston Housing Partnership may be reached at 617-425-6700.
www.masslegalhelp.org

Housing for the Deaf:
Contact New England Homes for the Deaf at 154 Water Street Danvers MA 01923 or call 978-774-0445 or visit the website http://nehomesdeaf.org/

Housing for Women:
The Sutton Home for Women 978-531-0815 at 7 Sewall Street, Peabody MA (nonprofit).

Identity Theft:
If you are victim to the following steps - Place a fraud alert on your credit reports and review your credit reports.  Close the accounts that you know or believe have been tampered with or opened fraudulently.  File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.  File a report with your local police or the police in the community where the identity theft took place.  Visit the website www.mass.gov/ago

Immigrants:
New immigrants to the United States will find helpful information at the website www.gobiernoUSA.gov
The Office for Refugees and Immigrants may be reached at 18 Tremont Street, Suite 1020 Boston MA 02108 or call 617-727-7888 or visit www.mass.gov/ori

The Asian American Civic Association (AACA) is located at 87 Tyler St, Boston MA 02111; www.aaca-boston.org 617-426-9492 and provides immigrants of all backgrounds and countries with an education center; workforce center; multi-service center; youth initiative; early education and care center and bilingual (Chinese-English) newspaper.

Injury Prevention and Control Program:
Contact Department of Public Health at 250 Washington Street, 4th Floor Boston MA 02108-4619 or visit the website www.mass.gov/dph or call 1-800-227-7233.

Insurance Tips:
If you suspect fraud or require information contact the National Insurance Crime Bureau's hotline at
1-800-835-6422 or www.insurancefraud.org
The Division of Insurance regulates and monitors the insurance industry for the protection of Massachusetts consumers at 617-521-7794 or www.mass.gov/doi  Visit www.naic.org to see a database of complaints filed with state regulators. 

Internet information:
www.guardonline.gov provides practical tips.  www.getnetwise.org is another public service to ensure internet security. 

Investing:
Office of Investor Education and Assistance is located at 100 F Street, N.E. Washington DC 20549-0213 or visit the website www.sec.gov/investor.shtml The website assists with making a financial plan, establishing net worth.  To order a copy of "Invest Wisely" call 1-800-SEC-0330.  Another source of information is NASAA 750 First Street, N.E. Suite 1140 Washington DC 20002 at 202-737-0900 website www.nasaa.org

Kidney Disease:
Resources are available from the American Kidney Fund www.akfinc.org or the National Kidney Foundation www.kidney.org In addition, the New England Organ Bank has helpful links www.neob.org/

Languages:
English as a second language classes are available at the YMCA-Adult Learning Center located at 33 Plympton Street, Woburn 781-935-6499.

Haitian American Public Health Initiatives (French and Hatian Kreyol): 617-298-8076
Lawrence Council on Aging (Spanish): 978-794-5886
Asian Center of the Merrimack Valley (Chinese, Khmer, Vietnamese): 978-683-7316
Greater Boston Chinese Golden Age Center: 617-426-1628
Russian Community Association of Mass: 781-593-0100
Vietnamese American Civic Association: 617-288-7344
Immigrants' Assistance Center (Cape Verdean Creole and Portuguese): 508-996-8113

For additional bilingual assistance call 800-243-4636 or:
Chinese: 617-357-0226
Cape Verdean: 508-996-8113
Khmer (Asian): 978-683-7316
Portuguese: 508-794-5886

Lawn Mowing Service:
CMARC Industries at 147 New Boston Street, Woburn MA 01801 will provide lawn mowing service including yard cleanup and raking at 781-935-7057.

Lawyer Referral Service:
This free public service of the Massachusetts Bar Association may be contacted at 866-627-7577 or via the website www.massbar.org The main office is located at 20 West Street, Boston MA 02111-1204.
www.masslegalhelp.org  www.masslawhelp.com
866-MASS-LRS 617-654-0400

Legal Help:
If you need a lawyer but have limited resources, log on to www.masslegalservices.org or http://www.masslegalhelp.org/  or http://www.massprobono.org/home.html
Lawyer for A Day (LFAD) Program offers free, confidential advice from an attorney for those involved in a domestic violence situation.  Contact 781-275-6111 or 888-399-6111.
Another resource for Domestic Violence is the Family Law Information Center 617-768-5964.
For telephone services providing legal information call the Legal Advocacy and Resource Center (LARC) at 617-603-1700 or visit the website http://www.larcma.org/home
For general laws visit the website www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/mgllink.htm
The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys website www.naela.org/  or call 520-881-4005.
CASLS accepts non-criminal cases and details may be obtained by calling 617-603-2700.

To locate the Legal Aid office nearest you contact National Legal Aid and Defender Association at 1625 K Street, NW, 8th Floor Washington DC 20006 or phone 202-452-0620 or visit www.nlada.org
or contact LSC Public Affairs 3333 K Street, NW, 3rd Floor Washington DC 20007 or phone 202-295-1500 or go to the website www.lsc.gov

When choosing an attorney describe your legal issue and find out if the attorney handles your situation.  Ask if you will be charged for an initial consultation.  Ask for an estimate of what is usually charged to handle your kind of case.  Ask whether there are hourly charges or whether your attorney would accept a percentage of the settlement as a fee contingency.  You may also request a written fee agreement before proceeding.

The Senior Citizens Law Project of Greater Boston Legal Services provides free civil legal services to persons age 60 and older in the Minuteman Senior Services area.  Legal advice and representation is available for:
1.  Housing/Tenant's rights
2.  Nursing Home issues
3.  Consumer Problems
4.  Defense of Guardianships
5.  MassHealth
6.  Medicare
7.  Social Security and SSI
To speak with a lawyer call 617-603-1776 or visit 197 Friend Street, Boston MA 02114 during business hours Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm.
www.masslegalhelp.org

Legal Services for the Disabled:
Contact the Disability Law Center, Inc at 617-227-9464 or 1-800-381-0577 or visit the website
http://dlc-ma.org/
Another source for assistance is the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination at 617-994-6196 or the website http://mass.gov/mcad/
For those who are deaf contact the National Association of the Deaf Law and Advocacy Center at 8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820 Silver Spring MD 20910 or call 301-587-1788 (301-587-1789 TTY) or visit the website http://www.nad.org/lawandadvocacy
Guardianship information can be obtained at www.advoguard.org or call 781-982-1577.
Assistance is also available to individuals who need help accessing mental health services and legal representation of people involved in the mental health system.  Call the Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee at 1-800-342-9092.
www.masslegalhelp.org

Leukemia & Lymphoma Information:
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society provides patients, families and healthcare professionals with information regarding blood cancers.  Call 1-800-955-4572 or log on to www.LLS.org You may also send email to

Long Term Care:
The Massachusetts Extended Care Federation represents over 500 nursing home and residential care facilities, hospital-based transitional care units, assisted living facilities and retirement communities.  Call 617-558-0202 or visit www.mecf.org

Long Term Care Insurance:
Long Term Care Insurance pays for medical or other services in the event you cannot take care of yourself due to mental incapacity or a prolonged illness or disability.  Medicare has developed a tool to help you understand what long-term care services are available, how much you can expect to pay for long term care and what financing options are available to support your long term care costs.  Visit the website www.medicare.gov/LTCPlanning
For information from the Massachusetts Division of Insurance call 617-521-7777 or visit www.mass.gov

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program:
This program designed for low income people pays heating and cooling bills and some energy-related home repairs.  Call 1-800-632-8175 for information or log on to www.mass.gov/dhcd/ and click on "heating assistance".

Low Vision Clinics:
1.  Carroll Center for the Blind
    770 Centre Street, Newton MA 02458
    617-969-6200 or 800-852-3131
    www.carroll.org or www.carrolltech.org
2.  Dr. Richard Jamara - New England Eye Roslindale
    4199 Washington St. Suite 2, Roslindale MA 02131
    617-587-5520
    www.newenglandeye.org
3.  MAB Community Services
    267 High Street, Holyoke MA 01040
    617-972-7296 
    www.Perkins.org
4.  Veteran's Administration Low Vision Clinic
    VA Boston Health System
    150 South Huntington Ave, Jamaica Plain MA 02130
    617-232-9500
5.  William P. Beetham Eye Institute, Joslin Diabetes Clinic
    1 Joslin Place, Boston MA 02215
    617-732-2552 (languages other than English: 617-732-2440)
    www.joslin.org
Sources for Low Vision Aids:
1.  Adaptive Technology 102 Bridge Rd, Salisbury 978-462-3817 www.adaptivetech.net
2.  Carroll Center for the Blind Store 770 Centre Street, Newton 800-852-3131 www.carroll.org
Low Vision Catalogs:
1.  Active and Able 877-229-9993 www.activeandable.com
2.  The American Printing House for the Blind 877-648-8400 www.aph.org
3.  Gold Violin 877-648-8400 www.goldviolin.com
4.  Independent Living Aids 800-537-2118 www.independentliving.com
5.  Low Vision and Heard-of-Hearing Products 800-468-4789 www.lssgroup.com
6.  See-More Vision Aiding Products 800-428-6673 www.seemorevision.com
7.  Shop Low Vision 800-826-4200
8.  Speak to Me, Gifts that Say Something 800-248-9965 www.speaktomecatalog.com

Massachusetts Association of Older Americans, Inc.:
Call 617-426-0804 or fax 617-426-0070 or visit the website: www.MAOAmass.org or write to 19 Temple Place, 4th Floor, Boston MA 02111.

Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging:
413-527-6425
www.mcoaonline.com

Massachusetts Department of Social Services:
To report child abuse or neglect or for information regarding foster care and adoptive services call 1-800-792-5200.  The Central Office is located at 24 Farnsworth Street Boston MA  02210.  View the website at www.magnet.state.ma.us/dss

Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs:
1 Ashburton Place, 5th Floor Boston MA 02108
800-882-2003, 617-727-7750
www.800ageinfo.com

Massachusetts Senior Action Council:
565 Warren Street Boston MA 02121
Call 617-442-3330 or log on to www.senioraction.org

Mass Health Customer Service Center:
To reach the Division of Medical Assistance at the Mass Health Customer Service Center 1 Ashburton Place Boston MA 02108 or call 800-841-2900 or visit the website www.mass.gov

MassMedLine: 
A pharmacy outreach program is available offering free, confidential services to all Massachusetts residents.  Call 1-866-633-1617 for general information about medications and side effects, in addition to personal assistance with accessing affordable prescription drug programs.  Translation services are available.  Visit www.massmedline.com

Medicaid:
This program provides medical coverage for hospital care, health center and clinical services, doctor care, nurse care, lab and x-ray services and nursing homes.  People who are age 65 and older, blind or have disabilities with limited income, few resources, or in some cases, high medical bills may apply by calling 1-888-665-9993 or log into www.mass.gov and search on "MassHealth".  To qualify, you must meet Medicaid income and asset limits.

Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program:
Free or low-cost health coverage to children and families.
www.mass.gov/MassHealth or call 800-462-1120
1-877-KIDSNOW or www.insurekidsnow.gov

Medical Equipment:
The Masonic Lodge, located at 142 Pleasant Street in Malden, has medical equipment available for pick-up on Saturdays from 9am to Noon call 617-426-6040 for information.

Medical Library:
General information is available from the Medical Library Association.  Call 312-419-9094 or visit www.mlanet.org
Information regarding medical tests and treatments is available at www.mayoclinic.com
Harvard Medical School offers a website at www.intelihealth.com
Further information regarding health issues is available at www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus
The American Medical Association may be reached at 1-800-621-8335 or www.ama-assn.org
Additional information may be found at www.medlineplus.gov or www.MedicareNewsWatch.com or www.mentalhelp.net

Medical Facilities:
To gather statistics on medical facilities contact www.hcup.ahrq.gov or www.USA.gov or www.aha.org or www.citizen.org
To choose a doctor visit www.ama-assn.org or www.abms.org or www.cdc.gov or www.docboard.org or www.healthcarechoices.org or www.healthfinder.gov
To file a complaint regarding medical services visit www.fsmb.org or call 817-868-4000.
For consumer complaints check www.jcaho.org or call 1-800-994-6610.

Medically Induced Trauma:
If an unexpected outcome occurs during medical and/or surgical care, these events may affect the emotional well being of the patient and/or family members.  For support in the healing process contact the Medically Induced Trauma Support Services located at 830 Boylston Street, Suite 206, Chestnut Hill MA 02467 at 617-232-0090 or visit www.mitss.org or call 1-888-36MITSS.

Medicare:
Health insurance for people who are 65 and older, and younger people with disabilities or kidney failure is available to help pay for preventive care, doctor visits, hospital stays and prescription drugs.  Call 1-800-772-1213 or log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and select "Questions about Medicare".  For information abut the Medicare prescription drug coverage, call 1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227) or log on to www.medicare.gov
To compare programs contact www.medicarenewswatch.com or call the Health Metrix Research Inc at 1-888-223-3515.
To protect yourself from Medicare errors, fraud and abuse access to your current Medicare account is available 24 hours a day at www.mymedicare.gov or call 1-800-243-4636. 
Another resource is the Medicare Rights Center at www.medicarerights.org or call 800-882-2003.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid may be contacted at www.cms.gov
For the Medicare/Medicaid Outreach and Education Program visit www.medicareoutreach.org or call the SHINE program at 800-243-4636.

Medicare Supplements:
For questions regarding "Medigap Policies" call 1-800-243-4636 or visit the website www.mass.gov
For those with MassHealth call 800-841-2900.
For those with Veteran's benefits contact TriCare at 877-874-2273 or visit www.tricare.osd.mil
For Veteran's Administration health coverage through CHAMPVA call 800-827-1000 or 877-222-8387 or visit www.va.gov
For questions regarding prescription drug coverage visit www.medicare.gov
SHINE counselors will assist with questions at 800-243-4636 or www.medicareoutreach.org

Medicare/Medicaid Outreach & Education Program:
Visit the website www.medicareoutreach.org
The program reminds people to document all health care you receive; save all paperwork related to your health care; check all statements for accuracy; compare all paperwork with services you received and call your health care provider with questions.
For health insurance questions call 1-800-AGE-INFO (800-243-4636).
Additional websites include www.medicare.gov and www.cms.gov

Medication Questions:
MassMedLine has answers regarding medications by calling 1-866-633-1617 or listen to MassMedLink to Health interactive educational messages at 1-866-633-6799.  Or log on to www.massmedline.com
For a medication record template visit: www.seniorcarepharmacist.com/record

Memory Clinics:
The memory clinics affiliated with the Boston University Alzheimer's Disease Center provide comprehensive care for older adults with memory loss including diagnostic workups, medical treatment, support to patients and families, ongoing consultation and research opportunities.
Contact:
1.  ADCRP Memory Clinic
    Boston Medical Center
    715 Albany Street
    Robinson Suite 7800
    Boston MA 02118
    617-638-7100
2.  Boston University Neurology Associates
    Memory Assessment Clinic
    Boston Medical Center
    Doctor's Office Building, 7th Floor
    715 Albany Street
    Boston MA  02118
    617-638-8456 or 781-331-9944
3.  GRECC Dementia Management Clinic (for veterans)
    200 Springs Rd, Geriatric Research, Education & Clinical Center
    Bedford MA  01730
    781-687-2701 or 781-687-3240

Mental Health:
The National Alliance for the Mentally ill can be reached at 800-370-9085
Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities & Behavioral Health service questions may be directed to 508-628-6300 or log on to the website www.advocatesinc.org
A broad range of mental health topics are available at www.mentalhelp.net
The Department of Mental Health may be reached at 1-800-221-0053 or visit the website www.mass.gov/dmh
The Department of Mental Health's Office of Multicultural Affairs may be reached at 617-626-8134.
The Patient Protection Line may be reached at 1-800-436-7757.
The Massachusetts Association for Mental Health advocates for community based treatment and services at 617-742-7452 or www.mamh.org

If you are concerned about a crisis situation call the Samaritans Massachusetts Toll Free Line available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-877-870-4673 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-899-273-8255.  Visit www.samaritanshope.org or call 617-247-0220 to reach the Greater Boston helpline.  The Samaritans are located at 141 Tremont Street, Boston MA 02111 at 617-536-2460.
If you have a question regarding your rights in connection with psychiatric hospitalization contact the Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee at 617-338-2345 or 800-342-9092.
Helpful websites:  www.familydoctor.org www.nih.gov www.nimh.nih.gov www.ncea.aoa.gov

Department of Mental Health area Offices:
Metro Boston:       617-626-9200
Northeast:             978-863-5000
Southeastearn:      508-897-2000
Central Mass:        508-368-3838
Western Mass:      413-587-6200
Metro Suburban:    508-616-3500
DMH Central Office: 617-626-8000; 1-800-221-0053

Woburn's Emergency Service Program is located at The Edinburg Center at 1040 Waltham Street, Lexington MA 02421 at 800-540-5806.

Mental Health Websites:
www.samhsa.gov - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
www.namimass.org - National Alliance on Mental Illness in Massachusetts
www.nimh.nih.gov - National Institue of Mental Health
www.mhselfhelp.org - National Mental Health Consumer's Self-Help Clearinghouse
www.helpguide.org - Center for Health and Aging
www.eldermentalhealth.org - Mental Health Collaborative
www.mentalhelp.net - Mental Health Help
www.stopstigma.samhsa.gov - Resource to address discrimination and stigma
www.mass.gov/dmh - Massachusetts Department of Mental Health
www.maclearinghouse.com - Massachusetts Health Promotion Clearinghouse
www.mamh.org - Massachusetts Association for Mental Health
www.mhin.bu.edu - Mental Health Information Network
www.mhsacm.org - Mental Health and Substance Abuse Corporations of Massachusetts
www.nmha.org - Mental Health America


Mental Retardation Services:
Assistance in job placement, transportation and housing and care for individuals with mental retardation can be located at www.mass.gov/dmr or 617-727-5608.

Minuteman Senior Services:
Services include:  Free Information and Referral; Care Management; Caregiver Support; Home Care Programs; Elder Protective Services; Meals on Wheels; Senior Dining & Catering Options; Money Management Assistance; SHINE Health Benefits Counseling; Nursing Home Screenings; Long-term Care Ombudsman; Senior Citizens Law Project; Volunteer Opportunities and Caring Conversations Seminars.
Located at 24 Third Ave, Burlington MA 01803 - Minuteman Senior Services may be contacted by calling 888-222-6171 or 781-272-7177 or visit the website www.minutemansenior.org

Moving:
Check the moving company's reputation in advance at www.protectyourmove.gov or www.movingscam.com On moving day, the movers should provide you with a copy of the federal handbook:  "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move".
If you are quoted a price for a move and the price jumps, contact the National Conference on Weights and Measures at 402-434-4880 or the website www.moverescue.com for your rights when you move.

Multi-Lingual Services:
French and Hatian Kreyol - 617-298-8076
Spanish - 978-794-5886
Chinese, Khmer, Vietnamese - 978-683-7316
Chinese - 617-426-1628
Russian - 781-593-0100
Vietnamese - 617-288-7344
Cape Verdean Creole and Portuguese - 508-996-8113

Narcotics Anonymous:
866-624-3578 http://www.na.org/

National Do Not Call Registry:
To sign on to the National Do Not Call Registry, visit www.donotcall.gov or call 1-888-383-1222.  To sign on to the Massachusetts Do Not Call Registry, visit www.madonotcall.govconnect.com or call 866-231-2255.

National Institute on Aging Information Center:
800-222-2225
www.nia.nih.org

NSTAR Discount:
If your family is currently receiving fuel assistance, food stamps, Social Security Supplemental Income, free or reduced school lunch or breakfast program, you may also be eligible for NSTAR's Discount Rate.  Call 1-800-566-2080 to speak with a customer service representative.  Write Customer Care, NW200 at One NSTAR Way, Westwood MA 02090-9909 or visit www.nstaronline.com

Nursing Homes:
Skilled nursing facilities provide long term and short term care with meals, social services, and 24 nursing care.  Some facilities include specialized services for specific conditions, such as Alzheimer's Disease.  Log on to www.masslongtermcare.org or www.mvziva.net The Department of Public Health maintains a listing at www.mass.gov/dph or call 617-753-8118.


Nursing Homes - "Compare Sites":
The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that the website www.cms.gov now highlights nursing homes and will include repeated violations of state and federal health and safety rules.  The website www.memberofthefamily.net provides color-coded assessments of nursing homes nationwide.
Visit www.mass.gov/dph/ or www.medicare.gov/NHCompare or call 617-727-7750 or 800-243-4636.
A guide to senior housing and care may be obtained at www.NewLifeStyles.com or call 1-800-869-9549.

Nursing Home Locations:
Andover:
Park Avenue Nursing & Rehab, 146 Park Ave, 781-648-9530

Danvers:
Harborside, 44 Summer St, 978-774-6955
Harborside Twin Oaks, 63 Locust St, 978-777-0011
Hunt Nursing, 90 Lindall St, 978-777-3740
New England Homes for the Deaf, 154 Water St, 978-774-0445
Radius Healthcare, 56 Liberty St, 978-777-2700

Winchester:
Aberjona Nursing Center, 184 Swanton Street, 781-729-9370
Winchester Nursing Center, 223 Swanton Street, 781-729-9595

Woburn:
Woburn Nursing Center, 18 Frances Street - 781-994-3802

Nutrition:
Visit www.nutrition.gov or www.nih.gov

Office of the Governor:
The Governor of Massachusetts may be reached at 617-725-4000 or write to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts at the State House Boston MA 02133.

Oil Heating:
The Mass Energy Consumer Alliance is a non profit organization offering discount heating oil service to 9,000 members across the state since 1982.  The basic annual membership (2008) is $20 and senior citizens pay $10.  Those on fuel assistance pay no fee.  After joining, Mass energy assigns you to one of their full service dealers.  The two basic delivery options are "automatic" and "will call".  Members enjoy flexible payment options:  30 day billing, prompt payment and cash on delivery.  Call 1-800-287-3950 for further information.  www.massenergy.com 

Ombudsman:
Ombudsman provides assistance in securing information on nursing homes or resolving problems between nursing homes and residents and/or their families.  Call 800-243-4636 or 617-727-7750.
Nursing Homes may be compared at www.mass.gov/dph/ or call 617-753-8000 or www.medicare.gov/NHCompare

Overeaters Anonymous:
781-641-2303

Parental Stress:
"Parents Helping Parents" 617-926-5008 or 800-882-1250.
Parenting education and parent support services are available at Family Skill Building Program located at 2 Merrimac Street, Woburn 781-935-6495.

(PCA) - Personal Assistance Services:
Approved by Medicaid, individuals are able to hire their own assistants to provide personal care.  Any individual who meets all of the following requirements is eligible:
*  Has a severe, chronic disability
*  Is a Medicaid recipient
*  Requires hands-on assistance with at least two personal care areas:  bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, range of motion, or transfers/mobility. 
For further information call 978-762-0301 or write North Shore Arc Personal Assistance at 6 Southside Road, Danvers MA  01923 or visit the website www.nsarc.org

Pension Benefits:
If you are having difficulties locating and securing pension benefits from employers, contact the New England Pension Assistance Project at www.pensionaction.org

Personal Health Record:
A guide to understanding and managing your personal health information is available at the website www.myphr.com

Pets:
For elderly pet guardians on fixed incomes struggling with the possibility of surrendering a pet who they can no longer afford to feed there is help available from PAWS at PO Box 1842, Wakefield MA 01880 or call 781-246-6111 or visit www.pawswakefield.petfinder.org Also, pet food donations are always welcome.  A pick up can be arranged for donations.

Physiatrist:
Medical professionals who specialize in coordinating stroke rehabilitation may be located at www.aapmr.org

Physicians:
For free physician referral service or to receive a copy of the publication: "How to Choose a Physician that is Right for You" call 781-893-3800 extension 5515 or visit www.massmed.org
For professional profiles of physicians licensed to practice in Massachusetts call 800-377-0550 or 617-654-9800 or visit www.massmedboard.org
The American Geriatrics Society's Foundation for Health and Aging can be contacted at 800-563-4916 or www.healthimaging.org

Poison Center:
For medication safety tips including medications that should not be mixed with alcohol; storage and dosage; herbal supplements; over-the-counter medications and poison prevention tips call 1-800-222-1222 or visit www.maripoisoncenter.org 24 hour treatment advice on poison emergencies and answers to poison-related questions may be obtained.  Additional resources included www.bemedwise.org regarding over-the-counter medication safety and the 24 hour alcohol and drug abuse hotlines at 1-800-327-5050 for free and confidential information and referral for alcohol and other drug abuse concerns.  The MassMedLine may be reached at 1-866-633-1617.

Postal Service:
If you suspect mail fraud contact the Criminal Investivgations Service Center 222 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 1250 Chicago IL 60606-6100 or call 1-877-876-2455 or see the website www.usps.gov

Prescription Medication:
Prescription Assistance helps fund 2,500 brand-name and generic medications by calling 1-888-4PPA-NOW or go to www.pparx.org

Prescription Advantage:
This state prescription drug assistance program for seniors and people with disabilities in Massachusetts offers prescription drug benefits.  Those with limited income may also be eligible to receive help paying for Medicare drug plan premiums.  To request an application form call 1-800-243-4636 or log on to www.800ageinfo.com

Products for Independent Living:
For active lifestyles, many products available for purchase may be able to increase your independence level.  Here are a few companies that provide a wide range of products:
Gold Violing Helpful Products for Independent Living - call 1-877-648-8400 or visit the website www.goldviolin.com
The Independent Living Aids, Inc. Company may b e reached at 800-537-2118 or 516-937-1848 or fax 516-937-3906 or visit www.independentliving.com

Prostate Cancer:
Information is available at www.masspcc.org or call 617-482-3044.

Public Health Services:
Contact the Boston Public Health Commission at 1010 Massachusetts Ave Boston MA 02118 or call 617-534-5395 or visit the website www.bphc.org
Or contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at 250 Washington Street Boston MA 02108 or call 617-624-6000 or visit the website http://mass.gov/dph/
For information regarding Medical Assistance call Mass Health at 800-841-2900.

Public Housing:
Throughout Massachusetts, governments provide money for public housing for low and moderate income families, seniors and people with disabilities.  For a list of housing authorities log on to www.hud.gov

Public Records:
The Secretary of State is the principal information officer for Massachusetts and the website provides information regarding public records at www.sec.state.ma.us or 1-800-392-6090.

Publicly-funded benefits:
To learn about publicly-funded benefits for which the older person may be eligible visit www.benefitscheckup.org

Psychiatric Care and Medication Management:
Melrose/Wakefield Behavioral Health Center, 11 Lafayette St, Wakefield MA 781-224-0611.

Ramps and Home Modifications:
Installing ramps or handrails for support is an important home modification.  The United Way organizes volunteers to assist with building handicap ramps for elders and disabled home owners. Visit www.unitedwaycm.org or call 508-757-5632.  The Metropolitan Boston Housing Partnership provides loans to make access modifications at www.mbhp.org or call 617-425-6637 or 800-272-0990.
The Home Modification Loan Program of the Department of Health and Human Services is available by calling 617-204-3637 or www.state.ma.us/mrc
The Homeowner Options for Mass. Elders is a housing counseling agency assisting with home repair services at www.home-ma.org/ or 617-451-0680 or 800-583-5337.

Rape Crisis Center:
800-542-5212

Recalls:
Product recalls and safety information may be found at the following websites:  www.recalls.gov www.pueblo.gsa.gov  or  www.nhsta.gov  or www.cpsc.gov
Save all papers you get with your purchase.  Keep all contracts, sales receipts, canceled checks, owner's manuals and warranty documents.

Recipes:
Using low-saturated fat, low-cholesterol recipes makes it easier to cook healthful meals. 
Try substituting these low-saturated-fat ingredients:
Whole Milk (1 cup) = 1 cup fat-free or nonfat milk + 1 Tbsp. unsaturated oil.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) = 1 cup evaporated fat-free milk or 1/2 cup low-fat yogurt and 1/2 cup plain low-fat cottage cheese.
Sour Cream = Low-fat cottage cheese plus low-fat or nonfat yogurt. 
Butter (1 Tbsp.) = 1 Tbsp. polyunsaturated margarine or 1 Tbsp. polyunsaturated oil.
Shortening (1 cup) = 2 sticks polyunsaturated margarine.
Eggs (1 egg) = 1 egg white plus 2 tsp. of unsaturated oil, or use a cholesterol-free egg substitute.
Unsweetened Baking Chocolate (1 oz) = 3 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder or carob powder + 1 Tbsp. polyunsaturated oil or margarine.  Carob is sweeter than cocoa, so reduce sugar in recipe by 1/4.
To learn more call the American Heart Association 1-800-242-8721 or the American Stroke Association at 1-888-478-7653 or log on to www.americanheart.org

Refugee Information:
The Office for Refugees and Immigrants may be reached by calling 617-727-7888 or visit www.mass.gov/ori at 18 Tremont Street, Suite 1020 Boston MA 02108.  Programs include the Refugee Cash Assistance/Cash Supports: Cash assistance for refugees up to 8 months after their arrival.  Also includes: early employment and retention bonus; client transportation reimbursement; and emergency in-kind assistance.  Refugee Medical Assistance offers transitional medical coverage for refugees up to 8 months after their arrival equivalent to the standard Medicaid coverage.  Refugee Health Assessment Program offers initial health assessment of newly arrived refugees.  A refugee refers to a person who cannot return to his or her country because of persecution or the well founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.  A refugee receives this status before entering the U.S.
The Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition may be reached at 617-350-5480 or www.miracoalition.org

North Shore locations to enhance elder refugee services:
1.  Asian Center of the Merrimack Valley
    One Ballard Way, Lawrence MA 01843 Tel: 978-683-7316
2.  Congolese Development Center
    298 Union Street, Lynn MA 01901 Tel: 781-593-0100
3.  Ethiopian Community Mutual Assistance Association
    552 Mass Ave. Cambridge MA Tel: 617-492-4232
4.  Haitian American Public Health Initiative
    10 Fairway Street, Mattapan MA 02126 Tel: 617-298-8076
5.  Refugee and Immigrant Assistance Center
    31 Heath Street, Boston MA 02119 Tel: 617-522-8345
6.  Russian Community Association of MA
    215-B Harvard Street, Boston MA 02134 Tel: 617-232-5443
7.  Somali Development Center
    203 Green Street, Jamaica Plain MA 02130 Tel: 617-522-0700
8.  Vietnamese American Civic Association
    1452 Dorchester Ave, Dorchester MA 02122 Tel: 617-288-7344
   
Rehabilitation Commission:
Employment Service information can be obtained at http://mass.gov/mrc or call 617-204-3600.  Offices are located at 27 Wormwood Street, Suite 600 Boston MA 02210-1616.

Renting an apartment in Massachusetts:
A landlord may only ask for the following payments up front (as of 2008):  first month's rent; a security deposit to cover costs of any damage to the apartment beyond normal wear and tear (which may not exceed the amount of one month's rent); last month's rent; and the cost of a new lock and key for the apartment.  For a guide to landlord and tenant rights log on to www.mass.gov/ago

Rest Homes:
Residential Care Homes provide housing, support services and medical oversight in a residential setting.  These facilities are licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and assist with administering medications, serve three meals a daily and have staffing 24 hours a day.  Further information is available at www.massaging.org and www.masslongtermcare.org  or call 781-662-5999 to reach the Mass-ALFA Office.
The Mass Extended Care Federation may be reached at www.mecf.org or 6177-558-0202.

Retirement Locations:
One source of information can be located at www.wheretoretire.com or call 800-680-2858.

Retirement Planning:
"Test Your Money Smarts" at www.sec.gov or for consumer information 1-800-732-0330.
Consumer Protection alerts at www.ftc.gov
Consumer publications are available at www.pueblo.gsa.gov
Request your Personal Earnings and Benefits Estimate Statement at www.socialsecurity.gov
Tax information is available at www.irs.gov/ep
Savings bond information is available at www.savingsbonds.gov
"Investing Basics" can be found at www.investoreducation.org
AARP provides advice on retirement planning issues at www.aarp.org
Preretirement information is available at www.nefe.org
"66 Ways to Save Money" and additional financial publications are available at www.consumerfed.org
To speak with the US Department of Labor contact 1-866-444-3272 or visit the website www.dol.gov

"Safe Return" Program:
It is common for a person with dementia to wander and become lost.  The Safe Return program is a 24-hour nationwide emergency response service for individuals with Alzheimer's or a related dementia who wander or have a medical emergency.  Call 888-572-8566 or visit www.medicalert.org

Salvation Army:
Massachusetts Divisional Headquarters: 25 Shawmut Road, Canton MA 02021 or call 339-502-5900 or 617-542-5420 or by fax: 617-542-6512 or visit www.salvationarmy-ma.org

Saving and Investing:
Information is available from the US Securities and Exchange Commission by calling 800-SEC-0330 or the website www.sec.gov  In addition, the North American Securities Administrators Association can be an excellent resource by calling 202-737-0900 or visiting the website www.nasaa.org
For interest rates look at www.bankrate.com or www.fdic.gov

Self Help and Support Groups:
www.groupfind.com
Narcotics Anonymous may be reached at 1-866-624-3578 or www.centralmassna.org

Scams:
If you suspect you are a victim of consumer fraud or to learn more about scams and consumer protection contact the Attorney General's Office at 617-727-2200 or log on to www.mass.gov/ago
Remember to always safe guard your personal information.  The local police department and local banks also maintain information regarding scams in the area.

Senior Care Options (SCO):
Senior Care Options is a partnership between MassHealth and Medicare that provides a complete package of health care and social services for low income seniors.  No one is required to join and enrollment is voluntary.  A team of health professionals develops a plan of total individualized care for each member.  Services are provided by a network of medical and other professionals, including a primary care doctor, nurses, specialists, and a geriatric support coordinator, who are part of a senior care organization.  The SCO program is available to elders age 65+, eligible for MassHealth Standard, living in the service area and do not have end-stage renal disease.  For enrollment information call 888-885-0484 or visit www.massresources.org

Senior Circuit Breaker Income Tax Credit:
Certain taxpayers are eligible for a refundable credit on their state income taxes for the real estate taxes paid during the tax year on the residential property they own or rent in Massachusetts that is used as their principal residence.  Income levels apply and the property must be occupied as the principal residence.  Call the state taxpayer service line at 617-887-6367 or 1-800-392-6089 or log on to www.dor.ma.state.us

Senior Information Hotline:
For additional information about programs and resources for older adults in Massachusetts, call the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs AgeInfo Hotline at 1-800-243-4636 or log on to www.800ageinfo.com

Sleep:
Sleep Centers in Massachusetts can be located by calling 1-877-753-3742 or log on to www.sleephealth.com
To gain information regarding sleep specialists go to www.sleepeducation.com

Smokers' Helpline:
Free telephone counseling, information and referral services are available at the Massachuetts Smokers' Helpline at 1-800-Try-To-Stop or online at www.trytostop.org For assistance in English call 1-800-879-8678 and for assistance in Spanish call 1-800-833-5256.
The American Cancer Society may be reached at 1-800-227-2345 or www.cancer.org
The American Lung Association may be reached at www.lungusa.org
The Depart of Fire Services may be reached at 978-5677-3380 or www.mass.gov/dfs and can assist with using home oxygen safely. 

Social Security:
Workers who are 62 and older, people with disabilities, or the spouse and children of a deceased worker or worker with a disability who paid into the Social Security program may apply.  Call 1-800-772-1213 or log on to www.socialsecurity.gov for details.

The National Association of Social Security Claimants Representative provides representation and advocacy for people seeking Social Security and Supplemental Security Income at 800-431-2804 or visit www.nosscr.org

The "Direct Express" card is a prepaid debit card offered to Social Security and Supplemental Security Income check recipients who wish to receive their benefits electronically.  You do not need to have a bank account to sign up for the card.  Call 1-877-212-9991 or visit www.USDirectExpress.com for information.

Speech/Language:
The National Aphasia Association can be reached at www.aphasia.org The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association can be reached at www.asha.org The Aphasia Hope Foundation is at www.aphasiahope.org The National Library of Medicine includes articles and research about managing communication disorders following a stroke at www.pubmed.gov The Clinical Aphasiology Conference may be reached at www.aphasiology.pitt.edu The Academy of Neurogenic Communication Disorders may be reached at www.ancds.org A free Web search engine to locate scholarly articles may be found at www.scholar.google.com To locate an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist near you visit www.asha.org or call 800-638-8255.

Stairlifts:
One option is www.stairliftheadquarters.com at 1-866-549-8893.

State Bookstore:
Call 800-392-6090 or 617-727-7030 or email

Stress Management:
Helpful websites include www.mentalhelp.net/ www.webmd.com www.selfgrowth.com www.healthresourcescorp.com

Stroke:
Call 911 if you have stroke symptoms:  one-sided weakness or sudden numbness; sudden trouble seeing; trouble speaking; sudden loss of balance or dizziness; sudden severe headache.  To learn more call the National Stroke Association at 1-800-787-6537 or log on to www.stroke.org  or www.strokeassociation.org  or www.giveme5forstroke.org or www.hearthub.org
Further information is available by calling 1-888-4-STROKE.

Substance Abuse Services:
Contact the Massachusetts Substance Abuse Helpline at 1-800-327-5050.
The Mental Health and Substance Abuse Corporations of Massachusetts may be reached at 508-647-8385 or www.mhsacm.org
Narcotics Anonymous is an international, community based association of recovering drug addicts who provide peer support to those who desire to be drug-free - call 1-866-624-3578 or www.centralmassna.org The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration may be contacted at 1-800-789-2647 or www.samhsa.gov

Suicide Prevention:
The Mass Coalition for Suicide Prevention works to bring about awareness and mobilize community action in response to the public health crisis of suicide and self-injury and will also provide referrals at 617-817-1977 or www.MassPreventsSuicide.org
A 24 hour helpline is available at 1-877-870-HOPE (1-877-870-4673).  For the teen helpline call 1-800-252-TEENS (1-800-252-8336).
The Samaritans is a not-for-profit volunteer organization dedicated to reducing the incidence of suicide by befriending individuals in crisis and educating the community call 617-247-0220 or 1-866-508-4357 or visit www.samaritansofboston.org or www.samaritanshope.org The Metrowest helpline may be reached at 508-875-4500.
Information regarding emergency services is also available at Boston Emergency Services Team at 800-981-4357.
The Edinburg Center services Woburn and is located at 1040 Waltham Street Lexington MA 02421 at 800-540-5806.

Suicide Survivors:
The 24-hour Crisis Hotline may be reached by calling 1-866-912-4673 or 978-688-6607.  A support group is also available for anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide.  "Safe Place" is a confidential, free support group led by a suicide survivor.  For further information you may also contact 978-688-0030 or email or visit the website www.FamilyServiceInc.com Additional support groups are offered by calling 1-877-870-4673 or 617-247-0220 or 508-875-4500 or visit the website www.samaritanshope.org

Supplemental Security Income:
Monthly checks are available for people who are 65 and older, who are blind or have disabilities and have very low income and assets.  Call 1-800-772-1213 or log on to www.socialsecurity.gov and select "Disability" and "SSI".

Support Groups:
For those with brain tumors seeking a support group 617-726-1061
Breast Cancer:  781-744-8113; 781-641-3700; 781-744-8113
Cancer patients and family members: 781-744-8113
General Cancer Support: 781-641-3700
Ostomy Association: 781-744-1030
Ovarian Cancer: 781-744-8113
Stroke Survivors and Caregivers: 781-744-1912
 
Swallowing Problems:
Also known as "dysphasia", swallowing difficulties need to be discussed with a healthcare professional.  Frequent coughing, choking on food or saliva and difficulties wiwth keeping liquids in the mouth are issues to discuss with a doctor.  Information can also be found at the website www.nestlenutritionstore.com/swallowing2  by requesting a free guide to swallowing difficulties.

Tax Information:
Visit www.mass.gov/dor or call the Massachusetts Department of Revenue's Customer Service Bureau at 800-392-6089. 

Telecommunications:
Relay provides a telecommunications link for consumers using different technologies that would otherwise be incompatible.  A Relay Operator reads TTY messages to someone using a voice telephone and types his/her message on a TTY for the other caller to read.
Contact Massachusetts Relay Service at 800-720-3479 (voice) or 800-720-3480 (TTY) or visit the website http://www.massrelay.org/
You may also contact Myrelay at 1-866-734-2833 or the website http://www.myrelay.com/home.en.html

Telephone Discount:
Lifeline is a government program that offers qualified people a discount on their monthly local telephone bill.  You may be eligible if you also participate in Mass Health, Fuel Assistance, Food Stamps and some of the other means-tested public benefits.  For information call 1-800-870-9999.

Telephone equipment for people with a permanent disability:
The Massachusetts Equipment Distribution Program provides residents with a permanent disability access to specialized telephones at a reduced cost or for free, depending on income.  These include hands free, cordless, or equipped with memory, amplification, text, or signalers.  Visit www.massedp.com or call 800-300-5658.

Television Converter Box Coupon Program (this program may have expired):
If you received free TV using an antenna and your TV is not digital, you may purchase a converter box that will plug into your current TV.  You may apply for a coupon toward the converter box at www.DTV2009.gov or by phone at 1-888-388-2009 or by mail at PO Box 2000, Portland OR 97208.
Please note:  the program for 2009 has expired.  Information may still be available at the above contact.

Tenant Rights:
Except in owner-occupied two family buildings, it is against the law for a landlord to refuse to rent an apartment to someone because of the person's race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, marital status, religion, age, sexual orientation, or military background, or because the person is blind, hearing impaired, or needs a guide dog.  If you have concerns contact the Civil Rights Division of the Attorney General's Office at 617-727-2200 or the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination at 617-727-3990.  Additional tenant information is available at the consumer hotline:  617-727-8400 or the AG-Elder Hotline:  888-243-5337 or log on to www.ago.state.ma.us
Senior Citizens Law Project provides free civil legal services to persons age 60 and older regarding housing and tenant's rights.  Call 617-603-1776 for information.

"The Ride":
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority" offers THE RIDE, providing door to door transportation to eligible people who cannot use general public transportation.  Service is available 365 days at year from 6am to 1am (as of 2008).  Call 800-533-6282 or 617-222-5123 or visit www.mbta.com

Thermostat Rebate:
NSTAR Gas has information regarding qualifying thermostats at www.gasnetworks.com or call 800-232-0672 to learn how you may be able to qualify for a $25 rebate.

Toll-Free Numbers:
Dial the directory of toll-free numbers at 1-800-555-1212 to see if the company has a toll-free number listed.

Transportation:
A Senior CharlieCard may be obtained at Back Bay Station or Downtown Crossing Station.  For further information call 617-222-3200 or visit www.mbta.com

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority :
Schedule & Fare Information: 617-222-3200; 800-392-6100
Additional contact numbers: 617-222-5438
"The Ride": 800-533-6282 or 617-222-5123

Information regarding senior mobility and transportation options is available at www.aaafoundation.org or at the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety at 607 14th Street, NW Suite 201 Washington DC 20005 at 202-638-5944 or visit the website www.seniordrivers.org

Transportation (Buying a Used Car):
Check prices at www.nadaguides.com or www.kbb.com
Fuel economy information can be found at www.epa.gov or www.fueleconomy.gov
Safety information is available at www.nhtsa.dot.gov or www.autosafety.org or www.safetyforum.com

Transportation for cancer patients:
The American Cancer Society volunteers provide free transportation to cancer patients throughout New England who need rides to and from their cancer treatments.  For information call 1-800-ACS-2345 or log on to www.cancer.org

Transportation (Leasing a Vehicle):
Information is available at www.leaseguide.com or www.leasecompare.com or www.leasesource.com
A guide is available at www.federalreserve.gov

Used Vehicle Warranty Law:
For information log on to http://www.Mass.Gov/consumer or http://www.consumerworld.org or call the Consumer Hotline at 617-973-8787 or toll-free at 888-283-3757.

Utilities:
For assistance with overdue utility bills, utility shutoff and restoring service that has been shut off call 800-392-6066 or go to www.massresources.org
To learn about energy saving products, loan rebates and incentives for energy-saving home improvements and a free home energy assessments contact Mass-SAVE at 866-527-7283 or visit www.masssave.com
For assistance with weatherization including air sealing, floor insulation, pipe and duct insulation and energy related repairs call the HEATLINE at 800-632-8175.
For information regardingn the "Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program" call 800-632-8175 or go to www.massresources.org
To get financial assistance for residents who cannot afford their heating bills call 877-563-4645 or visit www.citizensenergy.com
For information regarding the "Good Neighbor Energy Fund" call 800-334-3047 or visit www.magoodneighbor.org

Veterans:
Contact the City of Woburn Veteran's Agent for information.
Another source for further information is the Department of Veteran's Services 600 Washington Street, Suite 1100 Boston MA 02111.
The Boston Veteran's Services Office is located at 43 Hawkins Street Boston MA 02114 or call 617-635-3037.  Visit the website www.vabenefits.vba.va.gov
For further VA benefits call 800-827-1000 or www.va.gov
The Department of Veteran's Services may also be reached at 617-210-5480 or www.mass.gov/veterans

Veteran's Dial-A-Lawyer Program:
This is a free  program as a public service through the Massachusetts Bar Association.  Log on to www.massbar.org or call 866-627-7577 for further information regarding the MBA.

Veterans Cemeteries:
Veterans are entitled to a free burial in a national cemetery and a grave marker.  Spouses and dependent children are also entitled to a lot and marker when buried in a national cemetery.  There are no charges for opening or closing the grave, for a vault or liner, or for setting the marker in a national cemetery.  Contact Veterans Affairs at www.cem.va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000.
The Massachusetts National Cemetery is located at Connery Ave. Bourne MA 02532 or call 508-563-7113.
The Massachusetts Veteran's Memorial Cemeteries are located at Agawam MA 01001 - call 413-821-9500 or 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon MA 01475 or call 978-297-9501 or visit the website www.mass.gov/veterans

For military honors at funerals:
Army - 888-325-1601
Air Force - 781-377-4850
Coast Guard - 617-223-3485
Marine Corps - 866-826-3628
Navy - 860-694-3475

Veterans Housing:
There are two "Soldiers" Homes in Massachusetts - one in Holyoke 413-532-9475 or www.mass.gov/hly and one in Chelsea 617-884-5660 or www.mass.gov/che.

Veterans In-Home Senior Care:
As a United States Veteran, you and your spouse are eligible to receive Veterans Administration benefits to help pay for long term elder care services.  Under the "Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit" the Veterans Administration offers assistance to United States Veterans and/or their spouses to help pay for care in the home.  Call 951-325-8651 or visit the website www.veterans-express.com for details.  For assistance or questions regarding the application process call 781-569-6700 to speak with the "Senior Helpers - Caring In-Home Companions".

Veterans Medical Foster Home Program:
Medical Foster Home Program Coordinator: 781-687-2706
Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital Bedford MA 01730
www.va.gov
Medical Foster Home finds caregiveers in the community who are willing to take a veteran into their home and provide 24-hour supervision as well as needed personal assistance.  The expectation is that this is a long-term commitment, where the veteran may live for the remainder of his or her life.  The caregivers are paid based upson the level of care needed, ranging from someone with dementia with some dependence in activities of daily living, to someone who may be incontinent, bed-bound, and has more intensive care needs.

Vision Impairment Consumer Groups:
1.  Association of Blind Citizens 781-961-1023 www.blindcitizens.org
2.  Baystate Council of the Blind www.abc.org/baystate
3.  The Foundation Fighting Blindness Mass Chapter 617-284-1466 www.massblindness.org
4.  National Federation of the Blind 508-679-8543 www.nfb.org
5.  Visually Impaired & Blind User Group 617-266-6160

Vision Rehabilitation Center:
The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary offers the Vision Rehabilitation Center to provide comprehensive evaluation; occupational therapy; magnification; visual aid technologies and adjustment to vision loss.  For further information call 617-573-3202 or 617-573-4177 at 243 Charles Street, Boston MA  02114 or visit www.meei.harvard.edu
The Commission for the Blind provides rehabilitation and support services at 617-727-5550 or www.mass.gov/mcb

Visually Impaired (Resources):
1.  Access Center - Boston Public Library, Copley Square - 66 Boylston Street, Boston MA 02116
    617-536-5400 ext. 2295 - Loann of large print, braille and books.
2.  Bay State Council of the Blind - 57 Grandview Ave, Watertown MA 02172 - 617-923-4519
3.  Boston Center for Independent Living - 60 Temple Place 5th floor, Boston MA 02111
     617-338-6665 www.bostoncil.org 
4.  Braille & Talking Book Library
    Perkins School for the Blind
    175 North Beacon Street, Watertown MA 02472
    617-972-7240 or 1-800-852-3133
    www.PerkinsLibrary.org 
5.  Carroll Center for the Blind
    770 Centre Street, Newton MA 02458
    617-969-6200 or 800-852-3131
    www.carroll.org 
6.  Catholic Charities - 75 Kneeland Street, 8th Floor, Boston MA 02110 - 617-482-5440 www.ccab.org
7.  Center for Applied Special Technology - 40 Harvard Mills Sq, Suite 3, Wakefield MA  01880
     781-245-2212
8.  Deafblind Contact Center
    215 Brighton Ave, Allston MA 02134
    617-254-4925; 617-254-4929
9.  Descriptive Video Service (DVS)
    WGBH Educational Foundation
    One Guest Street, Boston MA 02135
    617-300-3490 or 800-333-1203 or 617-300-2000
    www.access.wgbh.org 
10. Family Service of Greater Boston - 31 Heath St, Jamaica Plain MA 02108 - 
     617-523-6400 www.fsgb.org  
11.Greater Boston Aid to the Blind - 1980 Centre St, Boston MA 02132 617-323-5111 www.gbab.org
12.Greater Boston Diabetes Society - 1980 Center Street, West Roxbury MA 617-323-5111
13.Helen Keller Center for Deaf-Blind Youth and Adults
    New England Regional Office
    152 Lincoln Rd, Lincoln MA 01773
    781-259-7100
14.Lowell Association for the Blind
    169 Merrimack Street, Lowell MA 01852
    978-454-5704
    www.lowellassociationfortheblind.org 
15.MABWorks
    51 Spring Street, Watertown MA 02472
    617-926-7026; 1-800-682-0920 www.mabcommunity.org
    (employment training program & independent living assistance)
16. Ferguson Industries for the Blind
    11 Highland Ave, Malden MA 02148
    781-324-1800
17.Mass Assistive Technology Partnership - Children's Hospital 1295 Boylston Street,    Suite 310  Boston MA 02215 - 617-355-7820; 800-848-8867 www.matp.org
18.  Masssachusetts Department of Education
    350 Main Street, Malden MA 02148
19.National Braille Press
    88 St. Stephen Street, Boston MA 02115
    617-266-6160 or 888-965-8965
    www.nbp.org 
11.Northeast Vision Consultants
    PO Box 486, Sharon MA 02067
    781-784-0642
20.Perkins School for the Blind
    175 North Beacon Street, Watertown MA 02472
    617-924-3434
    www.perkins.org 
21.Talking Information Center 
     130 Enterprise Drive, Marshfield MA 02050
    781-834-4400 or 800-696-9505
    www.ticnetwork.com 
22.Vision Coalition Massachusetts
    100 Cummings Center #330C, Beverly MA 01915
    978-524-9500
    www.thevisioncoalition.org 
23.Visions of Independence
    34 Crest Road Way, Sharon MA 02067
    781-784-3320
    www.visionsofindependence.com 
24.Veteran's Administration: Visual Impairment Services
    605 Lincoln St, Worcester MA 01605
    508-856-0104
25.Vision Resource Library
    Massachusetts Hospital School - Accessible Instructional Materials
    3 Randolph Street, Canton MA 02021
    781-575-1843 or 800-827-7772
    www.mavisiionlib.org 

Voter Registration:
The National Voter Registration Act of 1993 requires MassHealth to give members an opportunity to register to vote.  If you would like a mail-in voter registration form call the MassHealth Customer Service Center at 1-800-841-2900.  When you receive the form, fill it out and send it to your city or town hall.
Additional information is available at the Elections Division - Offices of the Secretary of the Commonwealth at One Ashburton Place, Room 1705 Boston MA 02108 or call 617-727-2828 or 1-800-462-VOTE or visit the website www.sec.state.ma.us/ele

Weatherization Rebate:
If you are considering adding wall insulation, attic insulation or air sealing to your home, you may be eligible for rebates up to $1,500 from NSTAR Gas for home upgrades.  Call 800-654-5833 for information.

West Nile Virus:
For information concerning testing in birds and to report a dead bird, contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at 866-MASS-WNV or for additional information concerning the West Nile Virus call 866-627-7968 or visit the Department of Public Health website at www.mass.gov/dph

Wills:
Please obtain legal advice when writing a will. Contact your own attorney or visit the websites www.abalawinfo.org or www.uslaw.com or www.thelaw.com or www.freeadvice.com or www.nolo.com to locate an attorney.
When writing a will an adult must be in sound judgment and mental capacity and the document must clearly state that it is your will.  An executor of your will, who ensures your estate is distributed according to your wishes, must be named.  Having a will notarized or recorded can safeguard against any claims that your will is invalid.  To be valid, you must sign a will in the presence of at least two witnesses who are over age 18 and competent and also totally "disinterested" in the will.  Witnesses should be carefully selected.
Review your will often and especially when the value of your assets changes, you marry, divorce or remarry, you have a child, you move to a different state, the executor of your will dies or becomes incapacitated, one of your heirs dies or the laws affecting your estate change.

Woburn Police Department:
25 Harrison Ave. Woburn MA 01801
For emergencies dial 911.  For non-emergencies call 781-933-1212
For information regarding the Victim Witness Program call 617-933-9586.
For the Middlesex Probate Court call 617-494-4563.

Women Cancer Patients:
Free cosmetic kits are available, as well as instruction regarding the use of wigs, scarves and accessories.  Call 1-800-395-LOOK or log on to www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org

Women's Health:
The Women's Health Network offers information about breast and cervical health; clinical breast exams; mammograms; pap tests and pelvic exams and other diagnostic services.  You may qualify for this program if you meet the income guidelines, have nor health insurance or your health insurance does not cover these services.  Call 1-877-414-4447 to find out if you are eligible for free breast and cervical health services.

Women's Resource Center:
A 24 hour hotline is available at 978-373-4041 or write to 107 Winter Street Haverhill MA 01830.