Senior Resource Navigator – Renee Wheaton

Renee Wheaton is our Senior Resource Navigator who you can call when you have questions or troubles like how to apply for government assistance, how to renew a driver’s license, how to access care or arrange for home services, how to find a contractor for repairs, how to find durable medical equipment, or similar situations that arise. Renee has been the Resource Coordinator for Freedom for several years and is very knowledgeable about the service agencies and personnel who are here to help you. If she doesn’t immediately know the answer, she will track it down. She is also the coordinator of the Stay Warm, Safe and Dry home repair program. You can reach her directly at 603-205-0909 or by calling the Gibson Center

Personalized Medicare Counseling

If you are turning 65, you need to sign up for a Medicare. To make the best choice for your health situation, meet with an unbiased, and unaffiliated counselor who explains the differences between Original Medicare and Advantage Plans, financial assistance programs, late enrollment penalties, and deferring enrollment. Please call 603-356-3231 to schedule your personal appointment. Schedule your New to Medicare for January, as Ele is currently working on Med D Open Enrollment .

Computer Tablet and Chromebook access

We can offer free Tablets and Chromebooks thanks to generous grants from Spectrum, Charter Communications Digital Education Grant, Maine Council on Ageing – while supplies last.

Computer Training

Computer Training at Gibson Center David Smolen – Fridays 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and our volunteer experts Mondays – all offer 1-1 training for beginners or more advanced users. Skills training can include setting up email, Zoom, searches, learning how to access medical practice portals for appointments, labs and questions, how to make and participate in Telehealth appointments, online job applications, how to prevent scams and fraud, and smartphones, cameras, photos and games.

Call 603-356-3231 to sign up for tutoring.

Advanced Care Planning with Joan Lanoie

Understand and get help with writing down your options for end-of-life care and making your wishes known. Joan Lanoie can help explain the nuances and implications while also providing helpful advice for family members. Appointment made by calling 603-356-3231.

Veterans’ Administration Benefits Counseling

Counselors come the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from 9AM to 3PM by appointment to provide consultation regarding Veteran’s Benefits. Call 603-624-9230, ext. 301, or email to request an appointment directly.

Finding Reliable Health Information

Dr. Charles Felton is a retired pulmonologist who can help you find reliable healthcare websites and research. He can help interpret medical information and misinformation. He will not be acting as a medical provider but be your advocate and guide.

Fridays 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM by appointment by 603-356-3231

Stay Warm, Safe and Dry: Home Modification

Valley homeowners who need a reliable, licensed contractor to help with small modification projects to improve the safety, warmth or tightness of their homes can call Renee Wheaton, who will coordinate with our contractor, Adam Balodis. Sample projects include replacing or repairing porch steps or railings, installing grab bars, improving lighting, changing out air filters, installing smoke or CO alarms, installing ramps, or other repairs that increase health and safety.

This is not an emergency service but one that will be available by request & subject to scheduling. Renee can be reached by calling the Gibson Center at 603-356-3231 or email at

Learn More about Stay Warm, Safe and Dry by clicking here

Friendly Visitor Program

Navigating Dementia Care in the Mount Washington Valley

Dementia and memory loss can be isolating experiences, both for those affected and their families. Recognizing this challenge, the Gibson Center for Senior Services offers the Friendly Visitor Program, designed to bring meaningful engagement and socialization to individuals experiencing memory concerns.

The Program

Friendly Visitor Program: Navigating Dementia Care in the Mount Washington Valley The Friendly Visitor Program is an opportunity for those with memory concerns to participate in enjoyable and meaningful activities. Our trained visitors provide companionship by visiting individuals at risk of or experiencing memory loss in their homes. These visits are not just about spending time together but about creating connections and stimulating memories through various activities.

Visitors guide a range of activities that may include chatting, taking a walk, playing cards, engaging in crafts, cooking, gardening, reading, listening to music, and playing games. Activities such as reviewing or making photo albums can stir long-term memories, while simple daily tasks like baking, laundry, dusting, and organizing offer opportunities to share stories and spark conversations.

Our Visitor Volunteers

Our volunteers are the heart of the Friendly Visitor Program. They receive specialized training to equip them with the skills needed to engage, connect, and support those affected by early memory loss or at risk for loss or dementia. This training ensures that our visitors can offer the best possible experience, making each visit beneficial and enjoyable for the individuals they support.

Contact Information

If you or someone you know could benefit from the Friendly Visitor Program, please reach out to our Program Coordinator, Jill Reynolds. She can provide more information and help you get started with the program.

Jill Reynolds, Program Coordinator
Gibson Center for Senior Services Inc.
Phone: 603-356-3231
Email:

Ongoing Services from the Gibson Center