Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Carleton-Willard At Home?
Carleton-Willard At Home is an innovative membership-based not-for-profit organization designed to help you remain in your own home as you age. We do this by providing assistance with practical day-to-day tasks and access to social, cultural, and educational activities, health and wellness programs, and volunteer opportunities. At Home serves adults 65 and older living in Bedford, Carlisle, Concord, Lexington, and Lincoln.
2. Why is Carleton-Willard At Home needed?
Carleton-Willard At Home provides an affordable option for people whose greatest wish as they grow older is to remain in the multi-generational community they love. Carleton-Willard At Home helps support you to stay independent, healthy and safe, while you continue to contribute to the vibrancy of your communities.
3. What are the benefits of being a Carleton-Willard At Home member?
Membership in Carleton-Willard At Home provides the following:
One phone number to call for assistance or for help in coordinating services
Prompt, friendly and professional customer service from dedicated At Home staff
Access to pre-screened vendors
Discounts on services
Transportation to and from medical appointments when your doctor advises you not to drive
Weekly trip to the grocery store
Pick up and delivery of prescriptions to your home from local pharmacies
Participation in At Home-sponsored classes, exercise groups, and social and cultural activities
Members-only special events
Volunteer opportunities
Social connections
Safety net
Peace of mind
4. What are the annual membership dues?
Yearly dues are $625 for a one-person household and $885 for a two-person household. Make checks payable to Carleton-Willard At Home and mail to P.O.Box 936, Bedford, MA 01730.
5. How will you screen service providers?
We make certain that the people or companies we recommend are licensed, insured and that a copy of both is kept in our office. We conduct background checks, including references, to verify their quality of work and dependability. And we will follow up after each call to make sure that you were satisfied with the service you received.
6. What if I'd like help arranging services that involve a fee?
Your At Home membership gives you access to a wide range of providers offering everything from transportation to home repair to computer assistance to house cleaning and more. At Home staff can help coordinate these services for you or you can contact the providers yourself to make your own arrangements. We have pre-screened these providers so you don't have to and we have made arrangement with many of them to provide discounts to Carleton-Willard At Home members.
7. What if I need something that is not on the list of services?
Ask us! We'll help you find what you need.
8. I am in good health. Why should I join Carleton-Willard At Home now?
Membership in Carleton-Willard At Home is like an insurance policy, with benefits that grow over time. By joining now, you can take part in the activities that appeal to you today. And if something unexpected occurs, such as a fractured hip, you will have the assurance of the help you need. At Home membership offers a sense of belonging to a group, and strengthens your ties to the community. Our dedicated staff are here to enhance your lifestyle by helping you deal with tasks you previously had to handle on your own.
9. What are the payment options?
Members have the option of paying annually, by check or credit card.
10. Can I buy a membership for my parents?
We encourage you to! This is a thoughtful gift for a birthday or for the holidays. Your parents can then use At Home services when they wish, and you have the peace of mind knowing your parents have access to assistance should they need it.
