Safer Senior Residences

Harmony Mental Health Assisted Living Program Named 2024 Recipient of LeadingAges Program Innovation Annual Achievement AwardFramingham, MA (October 10, 2024) Mary Ann Morse at Heritage Assisted Living is proud to announce that its Harmony Mental Health Program has been named the recipient of the LeadingAge 2024 Program Innovation Annual Achievement Award. This distinction honors groundbreaking programs that transform aging services through creative, innovative approaches.The award was presented at the LeadingAge 70th Annual Meeting of Membership on October 9, 2024, at the College of the Holy Cross. Lisa Kubiak, President & CEO of Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Corp., and Brian Kelly, Executive Director of Mary Ann Morse at Heritage, accepted the award on behalf of the organization."Receiving this award is an incredible honor that underscores our dedication to providing compassionate, specialized care for aging adults facing mental health challenges," said Kubiak. "The Harmony Program began as a separate, secured community and has evolved - thanks to the vision, hard work, and commitment of our team - into an integrated, supportive environment. Its a model that reflects our belief in the power of a holistic approach to care, allowing our residents to transition and thrive within a safe, nurturing community."The Harmony Mental Health Program has been recognized for its groundbreaking approach in meeting the distinct mental health needs of older adults, including those facing conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Acknowledging the increasing demand for comprehensive mental health services, the program offers an innovative alternative to traditional assisted living by providing a transitional, step-down option for seniors requiring specialized mental health support following psychiatric hospitalization."I believe our comprehensive approach fills a crucial gap in mental health care by combining therapeutic support, social integration, and residential comfort, adds Chet Olson, Harmony Program Director. Our goal is to enhance residents' mental wellness, foster social skills, and support their journey towards greater independence, ultimately preparing them for transitions back to traditional assisted living or home settings whenever possible."Located on the eight-acre campus of Mary Ann Morse at Heritage, alongside traditional and memory care assisted living programs, the Harmony program fosters a nurturing, non-institutional environment. It prioritizes individualized care and psycho-social support, empowering residents to live fulfilling lives within a compassionate community setting, where their mental and emotional well-being is the focus. Residents receive assistance from partnering clinicians and other health professionals, including McLean Hospital-affiliated psychiatrists, care managers, therapists, a social worker, and a dedicated nurse practitioner.About Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Corp. Mary Ann Morse Healthcare, a nonprofit organization, offers a continuum of senior living and healthcare services and has been a trusted community resource for over 30 years within the MetroWest region. Mary Ann Morse at Heritage provides traditional, memory care, and mental health assisted living programs for todays seniors. Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Center offers short-term outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation, as well as long-term care, including memory, respite, and hospice care. Mary Ann Morse Home Care provides 24/7 Medicare-certified home health and personal in-home care. As a nonprofit, we are deeply committed to our mission of helping seniors live their best lives and embrace healthy aging, no matter where they are on lifes journey. www.maryannmorse.orgAbout LeadingAge MassachusettsLeadingAge Massachusetts is dedicated to expanding the world of possibilities for aging. Together with its national partner, LeadingAge, it provides tools, resources, and knowledge to support members in overcoming day-to-day challenges while encouraging strategic thinking for the future. The organization represents the full spectrum of not-for-profit aging services providers across the state, championing mission-driven organizations that are integral to their communities. Its members are collaborative, respected, and forward-thinking, committed to meeting the needs of older adults. LeadingAge Massachusetts serves as the trusted and influential voice in the field of aging services. For more information, visit www.leadingagema.org.  For more information on the Harmony program, please visit www.maryannmorse.org or contact Chet Olson, Program Director, 508-665-5329, colson@maryannmorse.org

As the senior population grows, innovative housing solutions are emerging to meet diverse needs and preferences. Among these are co-housing, shared housing, and unconventional senior living communities. While these models offer promising benefits, they also raise unique legal considerations that require careful attention. Co-Housing or Shared Housing: Co-housing and shared housing offer seniors a unique blend of private and communal living. In co-housing, individuals maintain their own private residences but share common spaces like kitchens, gardens, and social areas within a community setting. Shared housing involves multiple seniors living together in a single home, where they share responsibilities, costs, and daily activities.  Both options foster a strong sense of community and can reduce living expenses, but they also require clear agreements on shared responsibilities and financial arrangements. Recent social media posts also describe Boom-mates, where two (or more) members of the Baby Boomer generation rent together, to cut down on costs and help reduce loneliness and social isolation as they age.Eco-Villages: Eco-villages are sustainable communities designed with a focus on the environment and green living. These communities often feature energy-efficient homes, communal gardens, and eco-friendly infrastructure. For seniors, eco-villages offer a lifestyle that emphasizes healthy living and environmental consciousness, creating a nurturing environment that supports both physical well-being and social interaction. The shared commitment to sustainability can enhance the sense of community and purpose among residents. Living with Family: While this is not a new approach, it is becoming more prevalent. The idea of older family members moving in with children or even grandchildren - promotes mutual support and interaction across generations, fostering a rich social environment where seniors can benefit from the energy and companionship of younger members of the family. In turn, younger residents gain valuable life experience and support from older community members, as well as the occasional babysitter. This arrangement can help combat social isolation and create a vibrant, diverse living environment. Themed Retirement Communities: Themed retirement communities cater to specific interests or lifestyles, such as golf, arts, or cultural themes. These communities offer tailored amenities and activities that align with residents' passions and hobbies, creating an engaging and fulfilling living environment. For seniors, themed communities provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and participate in activities that enhance their quality of life.In conclusion, innovative housing solutions for seniors offer exciting alternatives to traditional living arrangements, although not without their legal considerations. Make sure to discuss your living arrangement carefully with your professionals, to ensure no one ends up with unintended tax or other legal consequences. Unique housing options generally serve to promote well-being for seniors, keeping them home (wherever that may be) a bit longer.

The price isnt always the price at a senior living community.  Use these tips to help you get the best price.1).     Time is a leverage.  If you are able to move sooner, rather than later, you might have some room to negotiate.  Senior Living communities are businesses, and a vacant apartment is a non-revenue producing asset.  A quick move-in is a good thing for a community.  Conversely, if you are unsure of when you are able to move and/or planning for the future, you should not try to negotiate and wait until you are ready to make a decision.2).     Well-established communities may not have a need to negotiate, especially communities with long wait lists.  You can always ask, however dont be disappointed if you are told no.3).     Many things are negotiable, this includes rate locks, monthly fees, apartment upgrades, community fees, and even levels of care.4).     Usually, medical approval is non-negotiable.  If someone is denied residency based on their health, it is highly rare that the community will negotiate acceptance.5).     Contractual terms are difficult to negotiate since any changes to the communitys residency agreement may involve corporate legal review.6).     Negotiations are a two-way street.  Be prepared offer something on your end.7).     When negotiating, try to talk directly with the decision-maker.8).     Some communities have special incentives if you are able to move within a certain time frame.  If you are in a position to make a decision, you should inquire about any current promotions.9).     Do not have a take or leave it attitude.  The decision to move to this community is bigger than the incentive you are requesting.10).   Seek the advice of a professional.  We have years of experience in this business and have relationships with most of the communities in our area and can help you get the best price possible.  Contact us at www.seniorhousingsolutions.net to learn more.