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Park in the Fall

Founder's Message

Meriatrics LLC Manager, Emma Donnelly

Emma C. Donnelly

Meriatrics LLC Manager

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 may afford little time for social enjoyment

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  • Care facilities may not have sufficient staffing to meet individual needs  ​

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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 is upon us, as the current path is unsustainable.

 

No matter one's age, we are all on the spectrum of aging, carrying with us memories of those who came before, sharing their light, love, and wisdom. Let us now remember and appreciate those among us who are living into older age and in need of our light, love, and wisdom! Shower them with kindness. Support them, even in small ways. And encourage them to stand tall in the autumn of life, keep their face to the sunshine, and bloom where 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, 

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About Emma

Something About Emma

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 research of social wellness and extensive companion, geriatric, end-of-life and dementia care/support that she's provided over many years to family /friends. As the daughter, sister, and friend of certain Alzheimer heroes, she understands the correlations between cognition and overall health and appreciates the value of social connection for cognitive resilience. 

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Emma holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and is licensed in both MA and NH as a nursing assistant. (MA Lic. # CNA1020710; NH Lic. # 079827-24). She's also certified in CPR/AED and trained in dementia support (CARES "5-Step Method" / "Dementia Safety Topics"). 

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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