COVID-19 Resources
During this very unique time of our life, there is a lot of uncertainty in our lives. We hope to break through those barriers of uncertainty and provide all of our community members with uplifting, useful, relevant, and accurate information. We know that many older adults do not have access to internet, therefore we created a new newsletter, "Stay Informed While Staying Indoors". This newsletter is emailed to those who have access to internet and mailed out to those who do not have access to internet. To be added to our email list please email: healthy.aging2000@gmail.com
For updated Coronavirus Information please visit the Stanislaus County Health Services Agency
For updated Coronavirus Information please visit the Stanislaus County Health Services Agency
Stay Informed While Staying Indoors
A newsletter in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The following issues of the newsletter are directed towards older adults in Stanislaus County. We strive to get updated, relevant, and reliable information to older adults in our community.
A newsletter in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The following issues of the newsletter are directed towards older adults in Stanislaus County. We strive to get updated, relevant, and reliable information to older adults in our community.
- December 2020 (answer key to games)
- November 2020
- October 2020
- September 2020
- August 2020
- July 2020 (included in the Healthy Aging Today Newsletter)
- June 2020 (answer key to word search)
- May 2020
- April 2020
Scroll below for local resource to assist you through this difficult time!
Mental Health and Well Being
Well Connected Senior Center (Included in May & August issue)
During these times of isolation, join a group that interests you! Try out Well Connected which is a free community program made up of members who value being connected. All groups and classes offer a wide range of topics, you are sure to find one that interests you. Some groups and classes they offer; nature talks, the “good ole days”, pet tales, etc. These classes and groups are accessible by phone at no cost to you. Most groups last for 30-60 minutes and all groups are small with about 12 participants.
Newcomers are always welcome! If you don’t feel like talking at first, you’re welcome to just listen as long as you’ve let the group know you’re there. If you are ready to register please call (877)797-7299, email coviaconnections@covia.org or visit https://covia.org/services/well-connected/ for more information.
Well Connected Senior Center (Included in May & August issue)
During these times of isolation, join a group that interests you! Try out Well Connected which is a free community program made up of members who value being connected. All groups and classes offer a wide range of topics, you are sure to find one that interests you. Some groups and classes they offer; nature talks, the “good ole days”, pet tales, etc. These classes and groups are accessible by phone at no cost to you. Most groups last for 30-60 minutes and all groups are small with about 12 participants.
Newcomers are always welcome! If you don’t feel like talking at first, you’re welcome to just listen as long as you’ve let the group know you’re there. If you are ready to register please call (877)797-7299, email coviaconnections@covia.org or visit https://covia.org/services/well-connected/ for more information.
Staying Optimistic & Contented During Trying Times (November)
Dr. Robert McGrew, MD
How do we cope with all of the problems affecting both us and our loved ones during these prolonged, tough times with Covid? The anxiety, disruption of our daily routines, and isolation from others can bring down our emotional and social health. For me, keeping healthy starts with concentrating on the basic things of life.
This includes
I think the first step is to stop and assess how you are feeling now. If you do feel more worried than you want, or more sad, then it is important to think about why this may be. A few years ago, I found myself staying more anxious and discontent than I wanted to be. Reflecting on this, I realized that I was paying too much attention to news of current events--from TV, the internet and the newspaper. All of them seemed to emphasize alarming events, yet gave me no new information that I needed to live my daily life. Therefore, I decided to avoid TV and internet news (even Facebook posts about current events). Instead, I just read a trusted news source a couple times a week to stay up with the information I really needed. With the time that I saved, I turn my attention towards entertaining, educational and spiritual content.
Thankfulness is another new emphasis. On my daily walk, I always find several things to be thankful for. Other people find writing things for which they are grateful down in a journal and reviewing those things often greatly improves their optimism. For me, prayer and other spiritual practices seem to flow out of thankfulness, and boost my happiness.
Staying connected to others is much tougher now for many of us. Calling other people to say 'hi' and catch up comes easily for some of us, yet very hard for others. However, having a good talk with another person for just 10 minutes daily is enough to maintain our sense of optimism and well being!
If our emotional health is good, then everything else seems to fall into place. We'll have the motivation to get some regular exercise, which will help us to have more energy, less worry and better physical health. We can plan for a well-balanced diet, and make sure to get 7 or more hours of quality sleep. Finally, we'll have the energy to find ways to make the world a better place for others, which is a great source of contentment!
Dr. Robert McGrew, MD
How do we cope with all of the problems affecting both us and our loved ones during these prolonged, tough times with Covid? The anxiety, disruption of our daily routines, and isolation from others can bring down our emotional and social health. For me, keeping healthy starts with concentrating on the basic things of life.
This includes
- Being optimistic about today and the future
- Having good energy
- Sleeping well
- Living an intentional life that brings contentment
I think the first step is to stop and assess how you are feeling now. If you do feel more worried than you want, or more sad, then it is important to think about why this may be. A few years ago, I found myself staying more anxious and discontent than I wanted to be. Reflecting on this, I realized that I was paying too much attention to news of current events--from TV, the internet and the newspaper. All of them seemed to emphasize alarming events, yet gave me no new information that I needed to live my daily life. Therefore, I decided to avoid TV and internet news (even Facebook posts about current events). Instead, I just read a trusted news source a couple times a week to stay up with the information I really needed. With the time that I saved, I turn my attention towards entertaining, educational and spiritual content.
Thankfulness is another new emphasis. On my daily walk, I always find several things to be thankful for. Other people find writing things for which they are grateful down in a journal and reviewing those things often greatly improves their optimism. For me, prayer and other spiritual practices seem to flow out of thankfulness, and boost my happiness.
Staying connected to others is much tougher now for many of us. Calling other people to say 'hi' and catch up comes easily for some of us, yet very hard for others. However, having a good talk with another person for just 10 minutes daily is enough to maintain our sense of optimism and well being!
If our emotional health is good, then everything else seems to fall into place. We'll have the motivation to get some regular exercise, which will help us to have more energy, less worry and better physical health. We can plan for a well-balanced diet, and make sure to get 7 or more hours of quality sleep. Finally, we'll have the energy to find ways to make the world a better place for others, which is a great source of contentment!
The Department of Aging & Veteran Services is Here and Ready to Serve (September)
Vintrica Grant, LCSW | Project Hope, Mental Health Clinician
There is alarming evidence that the risk of severe illness from COVID-19 increases with the older adult population. Although taking precautions for safety is necessary to reduce the spread of the virus, these very practices are also causing an increase in isolation, depression and anxiety.
EMC Health Foundation polled older adult residents 65 and over in Stanislaus and Merced county regarding COVID-19 concerns. According to their survey, 84% of older adults report concerns about COVID-19, 60% of older adults reported feeling “entirely alone” and 30% of seniors said the virus has had a considerable impact on their overall mental health.
Other valid concerns mentioned were related to access to food, medical care, fear of leaving the home, and concerns of losing independence. As a Stanislaus County employee, I cannot speak for Merced County however, I encourage those in that area to contact Merced County Human Services Area Agency on Aging at (209) 385-7550 and Merced Adult and Aging Services at (209) 385-3000.
For Stanislaus County, The Department of Aging and Veteran Services mission is to “Help Seniors and Veterans obtain services and benefits they need to live secure, healthy, independent lives”. We have a multitude of free in-home services to assist those who are 60 years of age and over and that can address the specific needs expressed by the older adults interviewed in this survey.
Older adults can access food by way of the Congregate Meal sites or Home Delivered Meals Program. Project Hope provides short-term counseling, socialization options and system navigation for those who are experiencing difficult emotions and situations. For In-home support, medical equipment, case management and medication management, MSSP (Multipurpose Senior Services Program) and Family Caregiver Support Program are available. These are just a few of the many resources we have available through the department. For more information please visit our website at http://www.agingservices.info or call our main line at (209) 558-8698 to speak with a senior information specialist who’s available Monday-Friday from 8:00 am -4:30 pm.
Vintrica Grant, LCSW | Project Hope, Mental Health Clinician
There is alarming evidence that the risk of severe illness from COVID-19 increases with the older adult population. Although taking precautions for safety is necessary to reduce the spread of the virus, these very practices are also causing an increase in isolation, depression and anxiety.
EMC Health Foundation polled older adult residents 65 and over in Stanislaus and Merced county regarding COVID-19 concerns. According to their survey, 84% of older adults report concerns about COVID-19, 60% of older adults reported feeling “entirely alone” and 30% of seniors said the virus has had a considerable impact on their overall mental health.
Other valid concerns mentioned were related to access to food, medical care, fear of leaving the home, and concerns of losing independence. As a Stanislaus County employee, I cannot speak for Merced County however, I encourage those in that area to contact Merced County Human Services Area Agency on Aging at (209) 385-7550 and Merced Adult and Aging Services at (209) 385-3000.
For Stanislaus County, The Department of Aging and Veteran Services mission is to “Help Seniors and Veterans obtain services and benefits they need to live secure, healthy, independent lives”. We have a multitude of free in-home services to assist those who are 60 years of age and over and that can address the specific needs expressed by the older adults interviewed in this survey.
Older adults can access food by way of the Congregate Meal sites or Home Delivered Meals Program. Project Hope provides short-term counseling, socialization options and system navigation for those who are experiencing difficult emotions and situations. For In-home support, medical equipment, case management and medication management, MSSP (Multipurpose Senior Services Program) and Family Caregiver Support Program are available. These are just a few of the many resources we have available through the department. For more information please visit our website at http://www.agingservices.info or call our main line at (209) 558-8698 to speak with a senior information specialist who’s available Monday-Friday from 8:00 am -4:30 pm.
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Friendship Line (included in June & August issue) If you are feeling isolated and alone give the Friendship Line California a call at 1(888)670-1360. The Friendship Line California is a 24-hour, toll-free life line dedicated to Californians over 60 years. The Friendship Line acts as a crisis intervention hotline and “warm-line" for non- emergency emotional support calls. The phone line is staffed by friendly specialists who provide emotional support, grief support, and active suicide intervention. Just a telephone call can help you feel better! Pick up the phone and give it a try, 1(888)670-1360. |
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Protect Yourself from Being Scammed
Simple Steps to Prevent You From Being Scammed (August Issue)
Steps to Take If You’re a Victim of a Scam (August issue)If you think you’ve been scammed, don’t be afraid or embarrassed to talk about it—waiting could make it worse. If you have been a victim please take these actions immediately:
COVID Contact Tracer Scam Alert Scams (July Issue)Be on guard that there are scammers who send email, text messages or call people, pretending to be coronavirus contact tracers and trick people into providing personal information. Scammers deceive people into believing they have come in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. They then ask for private, healthcare information such as your Medicare number, Social Security number or bank account information. Here are some tips for scam calls:
Simple Steps to Prevent You From Being Scammed (August Issue)
- Shred all receipts with your credit card number.
- Request direct deposit from benefit checks so they don’t get stolen from your mailbox.
- Never give out credit card, banking, Social Security, Medicare number, or other personal information over the phone.
- Be skeptical of all unsolicited offers and thoroughly do your research before accepting.
Steps to Take If You’re a Victim of a Scam (August issue)If you think you’ve been scammed, don’t be afraid or embarrassed to talk about it—waiting could make it worse. If you have been a victim please take these actions immediately:
- Call your bank and/or credit card company to cancel any debit or credit cards linked to the stolen account.
- Reset any passwords or personal identification numbers.
COVID Contact Tracer Scam Alert Scams (July Issue)Be on guard that there are scammers who send email, text messages or call people, pretending to be coronavirus contact tracers and trick people into providing personal information. Scammers deceive people into believing they have come in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. They then ask for private, healthcare information such as your Medicare number, Social Security number or bank account information. Here are some tips for scam calls:
- Never give out personal information like your social security number, medicare number or bank account information because legitimate contact tracers will never ask for personal information.
- Screen your calls against unfamiliar numbers and let them go to voicemail, if it is important, they will leave a message.
- If you get a suspicious call about coronavirus contact tracers, please report it to Senior Medicare Patrol at their toll-free hotline 855-613-7080.
Senior Meals & Special Senior Hours
Frozen Meals Available - updated August 2020
The Stanislaus County Area Agency on Aging is helping those in need of receiving nutritious meals. Seniors 60 or older that are interested in the Senior Meals Program may call for more information or register to pick-up food at a distribution center located in Riverbank, Grayson, Oakdale, Modesto, Patterson or Turlock (upon request) by calling the Senior Information Line at (209)558-8698. Eating healthy food leads to a healthier body and mind!
Anthem Blue Cross is Helping its Members (June Issue)
During this difficult time, Anthem Blue Cross is helping its Medicare Advantage members connect with resources that address whole-person health, such as food, medications, medical needs, and telehealth. For more information about this,
call Sandra Holt with Anthem Blue Cross at 209-380-4964.
Grocery Stores (April & May Issue)
The Stanislaus County Area Agency on Aging and the Senior Coalition of Stanislaus County have compiled a list of grocery stores and their designated hours for Seniors and those who are most vulnerable during the COVID-19 outbreak, please contact the Senior Information Line for a copy of the list, (209)558-8698.
Frozen Meals Available - updated August 2020
The Stanislaus County Area Agency on Aging is helping those in need of receiving nutritious meals. Seniors 60 or older that are interested in the Senior Meals Program may call for more information or register to pick-up food at a distribution center located in Riverbank, Grayson, Oakdale, Modesto, Patterson or Turlock (upon request) by calling the Senior Information Line at (209)558-8698. Eating healthy food leads to a healthier body and mind!
Anthem Blue Cross is Helping its Members (June Issue)
During this difficult time, Anthem Blue Cross is helping its Medicare Advantage members connect with resources that address whole-person health, such as food, medications, medical needs, and telehealth. For more information about this,
call Sandra Holt with Anthem Blue Cross at 209-380-4964.
Grocery Stores (April & May Issue)
The Stanislaus County Area Agency on Aging and the Senior Coalition of Stanislaus County have compiled a list of grocery stores and their designated hours for Seniors and those who are most vulnerable during the COVID-19 outbreak, please contact the Senior Information Line for a copy of the list, (209)558-8698.