News Details

County volunteers begin making phone calls to support older adults during COVID-19 pandemic

May 14, 2020

SOLANO COUNTY – The County of Solano, in coordination with the seven cities, has started up the new COVID-19 Older Adult Resource Phone Line and begun making calls.  The phone line, staffed exclusively by volunteers, is intended to check-in on seniors age 60 years and older and those living with disabilities to see if they have adequate assistance and resources during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Housed in the County's Emergency Operations Center, a group of dedicated volunteers, including nursing students from Solano Community College, have begun calling and checking-in on hundreds of residents each day.  Older adults, including those living with disabilities, are at the highest risk of suffering health-related impacts from COVID-19.  These individuals may also be more isolated, making it difficult for family members and loved ones to check-in on, be present or care for them during the pandemic.

Starting at 9 a.m. every weekday, volunteers begin making phone calls to older adults and those living with disabilities throughout Solano County.  Following a script, volunteers inquire about the health and well-being of individuals, offering advice answering questions and connecting them to services available in the community, including housing, food and mental health services.  If nobody answers, volunteers leave a voicemail, encouraging residents call the COVID-19 Older Adult Resource Telephone Line.

The COVID-19 Older Adult Resource Telephone Line volunteers will not be asking callers to divulge any financial or personal identification information.  Older adults and those living with disabilities are encouraged to call (707) 784-1607 between 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday – Friday with any questions they might have.  The COVID-19 Older Adult Resource Telephone Line is a free service for anyone to call.

Resources for those caring for older adults and those living with disabilities in Solano County
In addition to the COVID-19 Older Adult Resource Telephone Line, the County has made available a script for individuals to reference when checking-in on, caring for and supporting elder neighbors, older adults and those living with disabilities during the pandemic.  The "how-to help older adults during the Coronavirus pandemic" script includes a reminder to wash hands regularly, to be mindful of visiting nursing homes and assisted are facilities, to call and check-in regularly, to request food and groceries be delivered, to consider using technology to stay connected, including telemedicine, tips to stay busy and guidance in finding reputable sources of information on the pandemic.

For more information on ways to support older adults and those living with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic, including downloading a copy of the “how to help” guide and “conducting well-checks” telephone script, visit www.SolanoCounty.com and click COVID-19 Resources for older adults and conducting well-checks button.  A copy of the script can also be requested by calling the COVID-19 Older Adult Resource Telephone Line at (707) 784-1607.