COVID-19 Update
We hope you had a restful Memorial Day weekend, although for many of us, the holiday weekend celebrations were much more low-key than usual. Some others, though...well, you likely saw the news photos of those who aren't taking social distancing quite as seriously as others. With most states re-opening certain businesses (finally, a haircut!), here at COA we are urging our fellow Ohioans to act responsibly and remember that the Coronavirus is still among us, and is still a very real risk to the health of older adults.
COA set to launch senior farmers' market program in region
For the first time ever, low-income seniors in COA's service area will be able to participate in the United States Department of Agriculture Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program. The program provides fresh, nutritious, unprepared locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs and honey through farmers' markets, roadside stands and community supported agriculture programs, to those who qualify. The COVID-19 pandemic has required us to make some changes to program operations to ensure the health and safety of our seniors, but we anticipate being ready to accept applications in early June. Visit here for current program details, and look for updates in upcoming newsletters.
Meal deliveries continue to bring smiles
We are continuing to deliver smiles with special LaRosa’s and Taste of Belgium meals for our older neighbors throughout Butler, Clinton, Clermont, Hamilton and Warren counties. As of May 22nd, we have delivered 6,200 meals to older adults living in low-income senior buildings. Our sincerest thanks goes to all involved!
Long-term effects of the pandemic on seniors
We're still in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic, but those in the aging network - and even Rolling Stone magazine - are thinking long-term about how the pandemic might affect seniors.

Virtual Aging Mastery Program available from COA
In response to COVID-19, the National Council on Aging has developed videos for its 10-part Aging Mastery Program (AMP) to replace its previously live sessions. The videos, along with a "starter kit," encourage adults to take steps to support happiness and longevity. COA is offering AMP for free to sites in southwestern Ohio that may be interested in hosting it. Contact Amy Leonhardt for additional information at (513) 345-3367. Ideal sites for the video classes include assisted living and continuing care retirement communities. 
People Working Cooperatively still available to help with home repairs
People Working Cooperatively (PWC), which performs critical home repairs for low-income homeowners, is continuing to provide many of its services, despite COVID-19. It is focusing on "Level 1" emergency repairs such as broken water lines and accessibility modifications for those returning home, as well as no-contact outside repairs. For a full list of current repairs and more information visit the PWC website or call (513) 351-7921 .
COVID-19 fraud update
Here are the latest pandemic-related scams the Federal Trade Commission is warning about:

A push to get paperwork in order
Estate planners are seeing a surge in people updating living wills, altering advanced directives and more, due to the pandemic. Many fear being put on a ventilator should they contract COVID-19 and have life-threatening complications. Read below and consider whether your documents might need an update.

Caregiving in the time of Coronavirus
Caregiving is a labor of love, and is particularly tricky during a pandemic. Education is one of the keys to feeling a sense of control and comfort. Read more below:

State and national COVID-19 news
Ohio Department of Aging launches check-in service for seniors
Many seniors in Ohio are heeding recommendations to stay home during the pandemic. But when family, friends and neighbors aren't able to connect face-to-face, they may not be aware if something is wrong. The new "Staying Connected" program provides a free, daily check-in by phone for Ohioans age 60 and older in order to make sure they are ok, and to refer them to their Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for access to resources, if needed (COA is the AAA for five counties in southwestern Ohio). More information and registration is on the ODA website .
Ohio lifts stay-at-home order; but staying at home is still strongly recommended
On May 20, Ohio lifted its stay-at-home order, making the rule voluntary. Governor DeWine does recommend that high-risk people and older adults stay at home when possible and wear a mask if they must leave their home. The advisory still limits mass gatherings to 10 and requires six feet of social distancing in public. Read more.
Virtual education opportunities
Almost all education has gone virtual recently, so there are many ways to learn something new from the comfort of your home right now.
Getting close to age 65? It's a good idea to educate yourself about Medicare. The Ohio Department of Insurance is offering free "Welcome to Medicare" webinars for adults who are new to Medicare. Get more information .
And now for some good news...
Some happy and heartwarming stories to brighten your day.
COVID-19 resources from COA
Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio (COA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing quality of life for older adults, people with disabilities, their families and caregivers. We promote choice, independence, dignity and well-being through a range of services that help people remain in their homes for as long as possible.
Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio | Visit us today!