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1. Am I required to have safety detectors in my house?

Yes, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are required by Massachusetts State law. Please contact the Nantucket Fire Department for more information.

2. Are there home care services available on the island?

Yes, there are many options both public and private for home care services on the island. Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands (ESCCI) provides funding through two state programs for elders who are no longer independent but with to remain in their homes.

The ESCCI Home Care Program requires that an elder be at least 60 years old, and need assistance with at least one critical task such as bathing, personal care, meal preparation, shopping, light housekeeping, transportation, and must fulfill income requirements.

Payment for both programs is on a sliding scale. To inquire more about these programs, please contact the Nantucket Director for Elder Services, Sheri Hunt at 508-228-4647.

3. Is there a Visiting Nurses Program on Nantucket?

Yes. The Nantucket Visiting Nurses Department is Medicare / Medicaid certified as well as accredited with the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). As a home health agency, Nantucket Visiting Nurses serve community members of all ages who require at-home, skilled care from registered nurses, physical, occupational and speech and language therapists, medical social workers, and/or home health aides. Post partum, well-child visits are also offered.

Nantucket Visiting Nursing Associates will work closely with your family and your doctor to provide the services you need. Referrals may be made by yourself, a family member, friend, or other party, however, a local physician's order is required.

Please call 508-825-8300 for additional information.

4. Is there an Emergency Life Line Program on Nantucket?

Yes. Philips Lifeline is available on Nantucket. By calling 800-635-6156 a local representative will install a personal emergency response system, which allows elderly people to remain independent in their own environment with a medical emergency call system.

Life line systems are leased at $40 per month, along with an additional charge of $30 for the installation fee.

For more information please call 800-635-6156.

If you register yourself or loved one with the Nantucket Fire Department as a Lifeline participant, you may leave a key at the Nantucket Fire Department, which will enable them ready access when called by the Philips Lifeline company for dispatch.