Let’s Stay Connected ~ A Pledge to Care for Each Other, Friendship Line & Resources to Stay Well

In the end of March, Governor Newsom called on everyone to take the pledge to check in with the older and at-risk adults in their lives. Since then, individuals, volunteer organizations, health plans, government programs and more have generated tens of thousands of calls to check-in. This is what people do in hard times ~ they reach out and take care of one another and it is inspiring. Check out EngAGE Check In Pledge now available in EnglishSpanishKoreanHmongVietnamese, and ChineseThanks for taking the pledge and please share with others!

 

Feeling Lonely or Isolated? Need to Talk with Someone or Find Referrals Over the Phone? Call the Friendship Line California

Created by a partnership between Institute on Aging and the California Department on Aging, the Friendship Line California is a 24-hour, toll-free “life-line” that is dedicated to serving Californians over 60 who may be feeling anxious, fearful or lonely. The Friendship Line is both a crisis intervention hotline and a “warm-line” for non-emergency emotional support calls. The phone line is staffed with specialists who provide emotional support, grief support, active suicide intervention, information and referrals.

It has been over one month since older adults were asked to stay at home. While staying at home is being done to keep safe, it may also lead to feeling lonely and isolated from others. Help us spread the world that older Californians and their caregivers can call Friendship Line California at (888) 670-1360 to connect with someone who can provide a friendly, listening ear today.

 

Feeling Good & Staying Connected Activity Guide

The California Department on Aging, in partnership with Oliver Wyman and Walgreens, also has a Feeling Good Staying Connected Activity Guide available in English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese. It offers ways to stay engaged and connected with others while staying at home to save lives. This guide outlines a diverse range of activities to engage in learning, connect with friends, family, and community, and promote health and wellness.

 

California’s COVID-19 Response & Resources Near You

To find additional resources near you and stay up-to date on California’s COVID-19 response, see their new website: covid19.ca.gov.

Karen Joy Fletcher

Our blogger Karen Joy Fletcher is CHA’s Communications Director. With a Masters in Public Health from UC Berkeley, she is the online “public face” of the organization, provides technical expertise, writing and research on Medicare and other health care issues. She is responsible for digital content creation, management of CHA’s editorial calendar, and managing all aspects of CHA’s social media presence. She loves being a “communicator” and enjoys networking and collaborating with the passionate people and agencies in the health advocacy field. See her current articles.