Helpful Resources
WestMass ElderCare
Website: https://www.wmeldercare.org
Phone: 413-538-9020
Email: info@wmedlercare.org
A private, non-profit agency, located in Holyoke MA. since 1974, their mission is “to preserve the dignity, independence, and quality of life of elders and persons with disabilities desiring to remain within their own community.” They offer a variety of services for elders, their families and caregivers, and persons with disabilities, so that they can remain in their homes and avoid institutionalization. The agency offers a full range of information and services. WestMass ElderCare’s main service area includes Holyoke, Chicopee, Granby, South Hadley, Ludlow, Belchertown and Ware; as well as many other surrounding communities.
SAGE USA
Website:https://www.sageusa.org/
SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline: 1-888-234-SAGE
A national advocacy and services organization that’s been looking out for LGBT elders since 1978. They build welcoming communities and keep the issues in the national conversation to ensure a fulfilling future for all LGBT people.
MassMATCH
Website: https://www.massmatch.org/
Phone: 877-508-3974 (Toll Free)
MassMATCH is the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’s initiative to Maximize Assistive Technology (AT) in Consumer’s Hands. It is one of 56 state-level AT Act programs in the United States. Its mission is to promote the use of AT and AT services to enhance the independence of people with disabilities, enabling equal participation in all of life’s activities.
Funeral Consumers Alliance of Western Massachusetts (FCAWM)
Website: https://www.funeralconsumerswmass.org/
Email: fcwamass@gmail.com
Phone: 413-376-4747
A volunteer run organization, independent of the funeral industry, The Funeral Consumers Alliance of Western Massachusetts (FCAWM) is a non-sectarian, non-profit membership organization whose mission is to promote and protect a consumer's right to choose meaningful, dignified, and affordable final arrangements. They aim to provide unbiased, reliable information about your rights and options for funeral or memorial services, care of the body, and disposition of human remains (including burial, cremation or donation).
Senior Legal Helpline
Website: https://www.mass.gov/legal-help-for-elders
Phone: (800) 342-5297
Volunteer Lawyers Project of Boston providing free legal information and referral services to Massachusetts residents who are 60 years old or older.
Savvy Seniors: How to Avoid Financial Scams
Website: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/preventing-the-financial-exploitation-of-elders
Download the PDF guide by clicking here.
Elder financial exploitation is the improper or illegal use of an elder’s finances through deceit, coercion, or some other undue influence. You can prevent this exploitation by understanding how elders are sometimes taken advantage of.
How to Avoid Medicare Scams
Website: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/learn-about-medicare-prescription-drug-plan-scams
Medicare prescription drug plans are offered by private companies and organizations. These plans must meet specific federal standards and be approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Fraudulent plans can attempt to take advantage of elders. Learn to recognize these plans and protect yourself.