ACL’s COVID-19 Resources: What’s New

Here's what's new on our COVID-19 resource page:

Bringing it all together: The "Guidance for ACL Grantees" section now includes a document with all of ACL's coronavirus-related Older Americans Act guidance.

In case you missed it: ACL recently presented a webinar on technology solutions to address social isolation. The webinar discussed specific hardware and software options, acquiring and distributing technology, and training for older adults and people with disabilities. A recording of the webinar, along with a transcript and slides, are available in the "Webinars and teleconferences" section of our page.

Cloth face coverings: COVID-19 can be spread by people who do not have symptoms and do not know that they are infected. That’s why it’s important to wear cloth face coverings in public settings and practice physical distancing. Wearing a cloth face covering will help protect people around you, including those at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. CDC offers tips for wearing, washing, and creating your own face coverings.

CDC recognizes that wearing cloth face coverings may not be possible in every situation or for some people. For example, some people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, or other sensory sensitivities, may have challenges wearing a cloth face covering. In some situations, wearing a cloth face covering may exacerbate a physical or mental health condition, lead to a medical emergency, or introduce significant safety concerns. And people who are deaf or hard of hearing—or those who care for or interact with a person who is hearing impaired—may be unable to wear cloth face coverings if they rely on lipreading to communicate. We've added the latest from the CDC on considerations for wearing cloth face coverings.

More from CDC:

Guidance for residents, staff, administrators, and visitors of retirement communities and independent/assisted living facilities
Updated information for people living in nursing homes or long term care facilities
Information on stopping the spread of rumors surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic

Maintaining healthy family relationships during stressful times: As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the resulting economic downturn, many families are spending more time together. This can create many rewarding moments and memories, but it can also strain even the strongest relationships.. ACL's National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) has developed "Keeping Family Together During COVID-19: A Checklist" to help families maintain safe and positive household relationships and avoid physical, emotional, and financial harm.

Should I bring my loved one home?: NCEA and the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-term Care have also developed a checklist for family members of long-term care residents considering bringing their loved ones home during the pandemic.