Helping Older Adults navigate the challenges of The COVID-19 Vaccine Process
See blog and important links below!
Since the COVID-19 outbreak started in the United States around this time last year, we have been caring for older adults by continuing coordination of care, helping alleviate social isolation, and navigate health care options surrounding the COVID-19 virus and now, the covid -19 vaccines.
Two vaccines are currently being distributed across the country - Pfizer and Moderna, and mass vaccination efforts are being coordinated at the state and local levels. Each State a has a slightly different approach, which has lead to some confusion, mis communication and irritation on the part of many individuals.
With frustrations and discontentment running high in many areas, we are actively stepping in to help clients and other older adults to obtain factual and clear information. We are actively educating health care providers and care communities, and assisting with holistic care support and socialization. In addition, we are also assisting with vaccination efforts by locating and updating individuals on vaccination availability and community and residential care options, securing appointments when possible, and ensuring the continuation of care of our clients with follow-up health monitoring and ongoing support.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 13.6 million people have already received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, and that about two million people have been fully vaccinated.
The number of people vaccinated is lower than the number of doses available, and there is much confusion on the distribution schedule and how fast things will inevitably be able to move. Each day is sadly a new and not so fun adventure, but we remain hopeful as we are making progress, but waiting is hard! Reach out as we are able to be a strong resource and support during this challenging time and ongoing. We have creative socialization support options and other programs to enhance quality and provide peace of mind.
With multiple variants of the novel coronavirus-19 rapidly spreading across the globe as the nation works to vaccinate its public, families can reach out to an Aging Life Care Professional such as us to help navigate this pandemic, the variants, the solutions in a vaccine, and provide ongoing support.
Please remember to stay up to date through our blog and also through our Facebook page which is updated many times each day to keep everyone current as things unfold.
Here is a link with important new information regarding vaccine dissemination in Fairfax County, including a NEW status checker for those already registered:
Vaccine Dashboard Now Live Featuring Dose and Registration Data; Registration Status Checker Also Available -
Here is a link to Loudoun County Vaccine Information: Due to the forecast, the county’s vaccination clinic will be closed, Saturday, February 13. All individuals who had vaccination appointments will be contacted to reschedule their appointments. The COVID-19 call center will open on time at 9 a.m.
https://www.loudoun.gov/covid19vaccine
Here is a link to Prince William County Vaccine Information: On Thursday, January 14, the Prince William Health District in conjunction with Prince William County Government expanded the COVID-19 Call Center to include information on the vaccine. The call center will provide information to residents concerning COVID-19 vaccines and assist with those who do not have access to a computer, the internet, or email. The call center hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. 703-872-7759.
https://coronavirus.pwcgov.org/vaccine-information/
Sources:
CDC
VDH
ALCA
About the Aging Life Care Association® (ALCA) - We are proud member of ALCA!
Aging Life Care Association® was formed in 1985 to advance dignified, coordinated care for older adults in the United States. Founded by and handful of women entrepreneurs in the social work and nursing fields, the Association has grown to over 2000 members nationwide, who have cared for about two million older adults over its 35-year history. Members have extensive training and experience working with older adults, people with disabilities, and families who need assistance with caregiving issues. Members must meet stringent education, experience, and certification requirements. Members may be trained in any of number of fields related to long-term care, including nursing, social work, and other allied health professions with a specialized focus on issues related to aging. All members, including Corporate Partners, are required to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. For more information or to access a nationwide directory of Aging Life Care Professionals, please visit www.aginglifecare.org.