A message from hamv
Dear Healthy Aging Readers,
Spring has finally arrived and not a moment too soon. Opportunities to enjoy our island's natural beauty abound and many community activities/programs are underway again. Spring is also Town Meeting season and again we thank the voters who supported Healthy Aging Martha's Vineyard in this year's warrants. We have exciting news here at HAMV - we have a new home! We are now located above the Martha's Vineyard Center for Living, on the second floor, at 29 Breakdown Lane in Vineyard Haven. We look forward to hosting events here so be on the lookout for an invitation!
For me, spring feels like the perfect season for Healthy Aging - enjoying the outdoors, being active, and connecting with our community in many ways. We recently participated in the MV Health Fair and enjoyed seeing many of you there. Here's to making the most of our longer days and working together to help Older Adults THRIVE on Martha's Vineyard.
Best,
Cindy
Click on the invite below to REGISTER for our Housewarming Party!
Click Below for a Directory of IT Support Services for Older Adults
Walking Poles program
Healthy Aging Martha's Vineyard is proud to introduce a new walking poles program, brought to the island by TrailsMV. This initiative aims to help more people enjoy our island's beautiful trails with greater stability and balance.
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Walking poles are now available for free check-out at all island Councils on Aging, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Healthy Aging Martha's Vineyard office. The program is open to anyone who wants to explore our trails more comfortably. These poles are easy to use and significantly improve balance and stability, especially for those with mobility concerns.
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Martha's Vineyard offers trails suitable for all levels of hikers and walkers. We hope this program encourages more residents and visitors to experience the natural beauty of our island's outdoor spaces. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out, walking poles can enhance your trail experience and confidence.
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To check out a set of walking poles or learn more about the program, visit any of the locations mentioned above or contact our office directly. We look forward to seeing you out on the trails, enjoying all that our beautiful island has to offer.
Share Your Voice - Help Shape the Future of Island Health!
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Martha’s Vineyard Hospital and Island Health Care are partnering with local organizations to better understand our community’s health needs—and they want to hear from you! Please take 5–10 minutes to complete the 2025 Martha’s Vineyard Community Health Needs Assessment Survey. Your input will help guide important health and quality of life improvements across the Island.
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The survey is open to all residents (year-round and seasonal), age 14 and up, and is available until June 30, 2025. It’s completely anonymous, and by participating, you’ll have a chance to win one of two $100 grocery gift cards or local family-friendly experiences!
We’re Now on Facebook!​
Healthy Aging Martha’s Vineyard is excited to launch our new Facebook page! Follow us to stay up to date on local events, helpful resources, and news for older adults and their families across the Island. It’s a great way to stay connected and informed.
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Click below to follow us on Facebook!
recent funders
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Cape Cod 5
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Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands
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Farm Neck Golf Club
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Martha's Vineyard Bank Charitable Foundation
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Martha's Vineyard Community Foundation
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Martha's Vineyard Hospital
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Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs
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Massachusetts Department of Transportation
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NAACP​
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Point32Health
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Rockland Trust
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Rotary Club of MV
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Slough Farm
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Tower Family Fund
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Town of Aquinnah
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Town of Chilmark
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Town of Edgartown
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Town of Oak Bluffs
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Town of Tisbury
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Town of West Tisbury
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Tufts Healthcare Foundation
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West Chop Foundation
home safety modification Video
The HAMV Home Safety Modification Program is still going strong! Our 2020 survey let us know that Older Adults on island want to age in place. We are working hard to help you meet that goal. If you want a consultation for involvement in the Home Safety Modification Program, call your local COA.
HAMV Weighs in
Beach access group keeps pressure on local managers
Martha's Vineyard Times, 1/10/2025
Island older volunteers providing millions in help
Martha's Vineyard Times
Written by Karen Tewey, Vineyard Vision Fellow leading HAMV's Community Engagement Initiative
Working for Your Health: Look Out for Each Other
Martha's Vineyard Times
Written by HAMV Board Chair, Robert Laskowski
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Healthy Aging MV grows up
Martha's Vineyard Times, 7/25/24​​​
Healthy Aging Martha’s Vineyard: August 2024
Martha's Vineyard Times, 7/25/24
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Letter to the Editor, Vineyard Gazette, June 14, 2024
Iris C. Freeman
NCEA NEW PODCAST:
The OGs of Elder Justice: Bill Benson & Iris Freeman
Hear what an HAMV board member, Iris Freeman, has to say!
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Hear what Bob Laskowski has to say on the need for affordable housing for Older Adults. Click here.
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