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STEUBENVILLE -- Older Ohioans can take advantage of a free, daily check-in by phone service to ensure their well-being during the COVID-19 public health emergency, Jefferson County Health Commissioner Nicole Balakos said.
The statewide program, unveiled during Gov. Mike DeWine's daily briefing, is open to all Ohio residents aged 60 and up who have a valid phone number, especially those who live alone.
"As our Stay Safe Ohio orders continue and we encourage those citizens who have health vulnerabilities to reduce their time and exposure in the community," Balakos said. "Those who live at home alone may want to consider utilizing this service. Our Ohio Department of Aging and Ohio Department of Health have partnered to provide this added layer of protection for our residents age 60 and older.
"This is especially critical for those residents who may not have family members who live local," she added
Balakos said the Staying Connected service "is another example of a statewide initiative to assist local communities in connecting our vulnerable populations with necessary check-ins and services."
The automated service, which is available daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., contacts participants every day within a one-hour window of their choosing. After confirming the caller is OK, it offers to connect the caller with the local Area Agency on Aging for information about services or assistance.
If a participant does not answer after three attempts, a call is placed to an alternate contact, if one is on file. After multiple failed attempts to reach the participant and the alternate contact, the sheriff's department will be notified through a non-emergency services line.
Eligible Ohio residents can learn more, or sign up, by visiting www.aging.ohio.gov/stayingconnected or calling (833) 632-2428.