Changing conditions related to the coronavirus reveal new needs, especially among seniors who are more likely to be shut in than ever. Below are on-going and new resources for seniors and their caregivers:
Resources for Seniors, a private nonprofit in Wake County, updates and distributes a list of resources and services for seniors nearly daily. They also have people manning their phones. For additional questions, call: 919-872-7933 during business hours.
Senior-only hours at grocery stores
Call your neighborhood store. Many offer
“senior-only hours,” usually in the morning right after the store has been cleaned and restocked. Many also have waived pick up and delivery costs for seniors ordering groceries online.
Helplines
- "The Hope Line," run by the NC Baptist Aging Ministry, provides comfort to isolated seniors daily from 9 am until 9 pm. Call: 866-578-4673
- "211" or 888-892-1162 is a free, confidential referral and information helpline and website that connects people of all ages and from all communities to the essential health and human services they need, 24/7.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Wake County is offering virtual support groups.
- "
The Friendship Line:" 800-971-0016 provides crisis counseling by phone for seniors over 65 and adults with disabilities.
AARP Community Connections
Give or get help online or have someone call you weekdays between 9 and 5 pm.
Physician phone consultations
Medicare now reimburses physicians for appointments conducted over the phone or computer. If you are in need of medical attention, but afraid to be exposed to COVID-19 through an in-person visit, call your physician to see if they can address your needs remotely.
Virtual urgent care at WakeMed
Sick and worried about COVID-19?
WakeMed Virtual Urgent Care providers can evaluate COVID-19 risks, assess symptoms, and provide support by video to help patients find the most appropriate level of care while minimizing exposure for all. Consults are available on-demand 24/7.
Many more pharmacies are offering delivery, even for over-the-counter needs, for seniors who are shut-in.
Call your pharmacy to see if they do.
The cost of pull-on panties, tape-on briefs, sanitary pads, booster pads and bladder control pads can add up, but may be reimbursable or provided directly by a caregiver service. Medicaid users, people with supplementary health insurance and VA benefits recipients may also be eligible for financial aid for these supplies.
Dementia Caregiver Support
