Introduction

COVID-19 Updates and Information

COVID-19 Updates and Information

The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas is committed to the health and well-being of seniors, adults with disabilities, family caregivers and our staff. With the increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases in our region and the declaration of a national emergency, we have created this page to keep you up-to-date on the operations of the Area Agency on Aging Pasco – Pinellas and provide helpful resources and information.

AAAPP Operational Updates

  • Beginning Monday, March 23rd, AAAPP offices will be closed to the public and staff will begin working remotely. All critical services will continue to be available by phone. 
  • Our Helpline and Intake/Screening/Medicaid teams remain open during normal business hours. You can reach us at 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111 for out of area callers.
  • Our nutrition providers remain available. Home meal delivery is being completed with six feet of distance to protect the elder receiving the meal and congregate dining has transitioned into drive-through dining services. Drive through meal options are readily available for any older adult 60+. To sign up, call Neighborly (Pinellas residents) at 727-573-9444 or Pasco Senior Services (Pasco residents) at 727-834-3340.
  • Our SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) and Senior Victim Advocacy/Elder Abuse teams are available for support and assistance via telephone only. You can reach both programs via the Helpline number above.
  • Our case management teams are continuing to coordinate & provide services wherever possible to individuals, but have put in place extra precautions to avoid the spread of the disease.
  • Adult day care, senior center programming, and other community sites are largely suspended. Check with the direct provider or municipality for updates on site closures.
  • IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR COVID-19 INFO OR RESOURCES: Our Helpline team continues to update this spreadsheet  with available resources as they are sent to us. We encourage community members to review and use this listing as a referral source. As capacity at local organizations is constantly changing due to the virus, we cannot verify all of these resources are readily available. However, this listing is a great place to start in your search.

Community Operations and Updates

  • Department of Children and Families storefronts, Social Security offices, and many municipal offices are closed or suspended at this time. Many are still offering information and support via telephone – check with the specific provider for details. DCF Economic Self Sufficiency Program Information available in English – Spanish – Haitian Creole.
  • Local grocery stores have adjusted their hours so seniors may shop for the first hour prior to the general public. Full information available here.
  • Duke Energy has discontinued disconnects of service for nonpayment for Pinellas & Pasco through April 13.
  • Potential transportation services for those who need it are available through Find a Ride Florida. PSTA has currently suspended all fees for riders until further notice to assist with social distancing practices.
  • The Alzheimer’s Association’s Brain Bus has gone virtual. Flyer with full information available here.
  • SNAP/EBT purchases will receive unlimited match in Fresh Access Bucks at participating outlets through April 30th. Visit FreshAccessBucks.com for a map of participating outlets.Unlimited Match for SNAP/EBT on Florida Produce Through April 30th

 

Information and resources to keep you and your loved ones safe

CDC – “Clara” COVID-19 Symptom Self Checker: This is a great tool if you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of COVID – 19. Find it here.

COVID-19 symptom information in American Sign Language.

How to prevent spreading COVID-19 and what to do if you have symptoms:

CDC COVID-19 Prevention information in American Sign Language

Alliance for Aging Research – FAQs for COVID-19 for Older Adults & People with Chronic Health Conditions

  • Wash your hands often and cover sneezes and coughs with your elbow.
  • Stay home if at all possible. When out, practice social distancing, 6 ft of distance between yourself and others and avoid touching “high touch” surfaces.
  • Clean “high touch” areas often. The US Environmental Protection Agency has developed a list of COVID-19 Fighting Products that can be found here.
  • If you develop symptoms (fever, dry cough, shortness of breath), call your health care provider – do not go directly into the office. Your provider will work with your County Health Department to determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19.
  • If you are looking for local information and support regarding COVID-19, the Department of Health COVID 19 Call Center is available 24/7 at +1 (866) 779 6121 or COVID-19@flhealth.gov

Medicare & COVID – 19:

  • Helpful information from Medicare.gov
  • Press Release from SHINE regarding COVID-19 & Medicare Fraud
  • Medicare covers lab tests (no out-of-pocket costs) and medically necessary hospitalizations due to COVID-19.
  • SHINE is readily available to answer your questions over the phone! Contact them at 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.

Scams, Fraud and Exploitation related to COVID-19: 

Resources for Care Partners of Individuals Living With Dementia:

Information regarding Retirement Communities & Independent Living Facilities:

Various useful state and national resources

Entertainment & Educational Resources to Take Your Mind Off Covid-19