In 2006 and 2007, undergraduate and certificate students in gerontology at the University of Massachusetts Boston investigated the elder livability of seven area communities. Elder "livability" refers to features of a local community that support residents who wish to age in place--characteristics such as the availability of appropriate…

Purpose: This preliminary study compared clinical evaluations for guardianship in three states with varying levels of statutory reform. Design and Methods: Case files for 298 cases of adult guardianship were reviewed in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Colorado, three states with varying degrees of statutory reform. The quality and content of the…

Estimates the proportion of service and nonservice expenditures within a state aging department. In Massachusetts the ratio was $0.70 to $0.30 (service to nonservice) both for the state's Home Care Programs and for all activities. (JAC)

Residents of an age-segregated housing project share their feelings on aging. Most accept their life- style and express a certain amount of fatalism regarding the future. They value autonomy. Services for the elderly must be provided in a way to encourage independence and allow choices. (JAC)

This paper describes a nurse practitioner directed health center education program for senior citizens in Medford, Massachusetts. The planning process, including needs and location decisions, is defined, and a summary of needs survey data on the population is offered, including health problems (medication problems, lack of exercise, depression,…

The director of the Geriatric Authority of Holyoke, Massachusetts, describes the planning, financing, and components of the municipal facility or "geriatric village" for the elderly, which includes skilled nursing and intermediate care, out-patient services, and housing for semi-independent living. (MF)

Describes a diversified approach to delivering home care to vulnerable older people. This pilot program, funded by the Massachusetts Department of Elder Affairs, attempted to reduce the demand for scarce homemaker services. Results suggest homecare diversification did not alter consumer satisfaction but increased manager time. (Author/JAC)