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An autumn scene in a park.

Founding Message

Meriatrics LLC Manager, Emma Donnelly

Emma C. Donnelly

Meriatrics LLC Manager/Founder

Human connection is a golden thread woven through the tapestry of our lives. No matter our age, we are social beings. We do not, can not, and will not thrive in isolation. Yet the social needs of many older adults go unmet for so many reasons:

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  • Changing life circumstances beyond their control (i.e., death of a spouse, failing health, reduced mobility, not driving, etc.)

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  • Smaller social circles due to the passing of friends; sandwiched caregiving​

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  • ​​Stacked home/healthcare services that don't prioritize social enjoyment

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  • Reduced staffing/changing ratios (staff to patients/residents) in care facilities  ​

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  • Cultural indifference; ageism; insensitivity to older adult needs​

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Each of these barriers prevents many older adults from accessing the social enjoyment they want, need, and deserve. The time for prioritizing social wellness, especially in aging, is very much upon us.

 

No matter one's age, we are all on the spectrum of aging. We should therefore be sensitive to those walking the path ahead of us. (It won't be long before we're walking in their shoes!) Reach out to older-adult family, friends, and neighbors. Show them that you care. And, encourage them to stand tall in the autumn of life, keep their face to the sunshine, and bloom wherever they're planted! ​

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And if there's anything we can do to help along the way, please give us a call.​

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Blessings, 

Founder's signature at bottom of message
About Emma

Something About the Founder

Emma (Cormier) Donnelly, manager and founder of Meriatrics LLC, has enjoyed a life-long affinity with both older adults and young children.

 

Her vision for Meriatrics has been inspired by many years of providing companion care, geriatric support, end-of-life care and dementia support to family and friends, as well as an avid interest in lifestyle medicine research. As the daughter, sister, and friend of certain Alzheimer heroes, she understands the value of social connection for life meaning, emotional coping and cognitive resilience. 

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Emma holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and is licensed in MA and NH as a nursing assistant (MA Lic. # CNA1020710; NH Lic. # 079827-24). She has also completed dementia support training through the CARES program ("Five-Step Method" and "Safety Topics") and is certified in CPR/AED (American Heart Association). 

 

From 1979-2012, Emma was a flight attendant for United Airlines, Inc. She has also provided intermittent K-5 educational support services (regular and special education) in NH/MA public schools.

 

Formerly a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for abused and neglected children in Lawrence, MA, Emma has also mentored young girls (BigSister, CA). And, in the 1990's prior to the passing of her late husband, John F. Donnelly, she served tirelessly as a citizens' advocate in Methuen, MA, where she was also a candidate for mayor.

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​​In her spare time, Emma enjoys the beach, golf, travel, writing (prose and poetry), cooking, dancing and fitness and is an avid fan of all Boston sports teams, especially the N. E. Patriots.

A single sunflower stem in a garden of sunflowers.

To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors in life.

Tia Walker

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