Download the 40-Year GLSS History Milestone Presentation.

The roots of GLSS go back to 1960 when a group of concerned senior citizens established the Lynn Council on Aging (“LCOA”).  From 1960 to 1975, as the primary recipient of state and federal funds targeted toward people age 65 and older, the Council initiated such services as advocacy, home-delivered meals and nutrition sites, mental health and nursing clinics, adult day health, transportation, outreach, and Senior Center activities.

In 1975, the LCOA was approached by the newly established Massachusetts Department of Elder Affairs to take on the new functions of a federal Area Agency on Aging and MA State Home Care Corporation.  The Council accepted this challenge and joined the four other Councils on Aging in Lynnfield, Nahant, Saugus and Swampscott to develop a completely integrated service system for older adults in the Greater Lynn area.  To this day, GLSS and the LCOA enjoy a strong partnership and close relationship. For many years, the two organizations were co-located in GLSS' office building at 8 Silsbee Street—at the time, it was the only such arrangement of its kind in the state.

Throughout its history, GLSS has been a leader, innovator, and pioneer. Among its many achievement is the creation of Silver Otter Strategies--a wholly-owned subsidiary of GLSS--which provides new approaches to how healthcare is delivered and puts the power  of informed decision-making into the hands of consumers, so they can lead healthier, more fulfilling, independent lives.

For more than 45 years, GLSS has responded to the changing needs of older adults, providing a continuum of community health and human services to help people maintain their independence, safely and with dignity, and to live in the community settings of their choice for as long as possible.  This mission is accomplished by providing access to services through information and referral; home care services; nutrition programs; mobility management; housing supports; clinical and protective services; programs designed to promote consumer engagement and better health and well-being; and a number of new initiatives aimed at creating stronger, more livable communities for all.