older mom and daughter laughing together outside

Social Isolation Resources

Social isolation among older adults is a serious issue, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one-third of adults ages 45 and older feel lonely. This group is at an increased risk of social isolation due in part to having less nearby, immediate family or a chronic illness. Many organizations have created resources to help combat this social isolation and support beneficiaries and caregivers, as well as staff members and volunteers.


Assessment

Articles

Newsletters

Handouts

  • Eldercare Locator and National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a): Staying Connected at Home During COVID-19 (English) (Spanish)
  • Eldercare Locator and Alliance for Aging Research: Staying Safe at Home During the Coronavirus Crisis (English) (Spanish)
  • National Institute on Aging (NIA): Understanding Loneliness and Social Isolation: How to Stay Connected (PDF) (Paper Copy)
  • National Institute on Aging (NIA): Feeling Lonely or Socially Isolated?

Videos

Infographic

Social Engagement

  • Administration for Community Living (ACL): Eldercare Locator
    • Link those who need assistance with state and local agencies on aging, as well as community-based organizations that serve older adults and their caregivers.
  • engAGED National Resource Center: Tapping into Technology to Stay Connected and Engaged
    • A consumer-friendly booklet that provides older adults with information on available technology options, how to access technology, and how technology can help them stay engaged and connected to their communities. 
  • Federal Trade Commission: Emergency Broadband Benefit 
    • The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.
    • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Emergency Broadband Benefit.
  • Juanita C. Grant Foundation: Village Connector Experience
    • Engaging older adults impacted by covid-19 social isolation by having trained ambassadors’ calls including other featured social distancing activities.
  • National Council on Aging (NCOA): Tools for Reaching a Remote Audience
    • This website provides an overview of some popular tools to reach out to and connect with people. 
  • Senior Planet (OATS): Senior Planet
    • Senior Planet, powered by OATS (Older Adults Technology Services), harnesses technology to change the way we age. Their courses, programs, and activities help seniors learn new skills, save money, get in shape, and make new friends.
  • University of Southern California School of Social Work: Crisis Care for Adults With Cognitive Impairment
    • This resource provides strategies for families and health care professionals to help adults with cognitive impairment cope with the pandemic.

Resources for State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs), Senior Medicare Patrol (SMPs), and Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA)

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