With most businesses given the all-clear to reopen in Ohio, have you ventured out yet for dinner at a restaurant, or even for a trip to the mall? If so, you're not alone. It seems we're starting to see the impact on COVID-19 cases from the lifting of stay-at-home orders in Ohio and throughout the country. While many of us are still being cautious about going out in public (wearing masks, sanitizing, etc.), there is also widespread concern that some Americans are not practicing these precautions. See below for a roundup of news about reopening.
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How is the reopening going?
What effect is the reopening of our economy having? We have some updates, below.
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HEAP Summer Crisis Program begins July 1
The Home Energy Assistance Program's (HEAP) Summer Crisis Program begins accepting applications on July 1.
The program helps eligible Ohioans pay an electric bill, purchase an air conditioning unit or fan, or pay for central air conditioning repairs.
Low-income older adults or those who can provide physician documentation that cooling assistance is needed for their health may apply.
Get program details, application directions and learn what's new this year for PIPP enrollees.
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PPE distribution event brings out COA providers
On June 10 at our Tri-County headquarters, we distributed (drive-thru style!) thousands of pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) to our providers to ensure their safety and the safety of the seniors they care for. COA received the PPE from the Ohio Department of Aging and the supplies included 11,000 masks, hundreds of bottles of hand sanitizer, face shields and more.
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Coronavirus and the African-American community
Millions of Americans have contracted COVID-19, but the African-American community is being disproportionately affected. A
report
from American Public Media's APM Research Lab found that African Americans have died from the disease at almost three times the rate of white Americans. One bright spot in our region is a senior who is making masks for the African-American community. Read her story
here.
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COA's health and wellness workshops to move online
Traditionally, our Healthy U workshops have been offered in-person for people with diabetes and other chronic health conditions. But soon, these workshops will be available online. This will greatly improve older adults’ access to these free workshops. Stay tuned for details, and get the latest information
here
.
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Free home care assistance items available this weekend
OneSource Center for Nonprofit Excellence is holding a free public offering of home care assistance items this Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27, 9 am-Noon each day at 936 Dalton Avenue, Cincinnati. Items such as bedside commodes, shower benches, bath lifts, and much more will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Get the details.
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Are you familiar with the Coronavirus R0 value?
R0 (pronounced "R naught") is the number of Coronavirus infections expected to stem from one case. The Ohio Department of Health tracks Ohio's R0 values by regions, to keep tabs on virus spread.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that COVID-19's R0, without interventions (stay at home orders, social distancing, etc.), to be 2.5.
With Ohio's interventions, the R0 for the state measured at 0.87 on June 7. In several regions, including the Cincinnati and Dayton areas, the R0 was plateauing at 1.0.
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The next COVID crisis: mental health issues
Experts agree: a wave of COVID-19-related mental health issues due to isolation, illness, unemployment and more is rearing its ugly head.
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And now for some good news...
See how people are finding creative ways to help and to stay connected during the pandemic.
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COVID-19 testing, treatment and prevention
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Where do we stand with testing for and treating the disease, and what's happening with vaccine development? Learn more below.
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Want to stay connected and informed via technology during the pandemic but not as "tech savvy" as you would like? Here are some resources to get you started:
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COVID-19 resources from COA
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Resources for seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic
Our website has updated information and resources for those who need help during this difficult time:
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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.
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