Understandably, the Coronavirus pandemic has resulted in the closure (temporary, we hope) of several Contra Costa County Senior Centers & resources. Most centers are citing, “due to the social distancing recommendations issued by Contra Costa Health Services and the California Department of Public Health, centers are taking precautions in an effort to prevent the spread of Covid-19. “ At the time of this blog submission, here’s where things stand:
- They have closed their space until further notice.
However, they do have links to a Virtual Rec Center on their site.
- Concord has closed all programs & classes until further notice.
City of Martinez – Senior Community Center
- The center is closed however, City staff is onsite Monday-Friday from 9am-1pm to answer phones and help the senior community as needed. Staff can be reached at 925-370-8770. Click here to access their Online Resource Center.
Pleasant Hill has developed “virtual” office hours with center staff. They can be contacted at 925-798-8777 on Tues, Weds, & Thurs between 9 – 12. The staff at PHSC have curated links to lots of virtual activities. Click here to view the list.
Senior Center – City of Pittsburg
- Due to the Covid-19 the Pittsburg Senior Center will be closed to the public until further notice.
Welcomes guests to their Friday 12:30 conversations via zoom.
To learn more, visit their website.
- All indoor events have been canceled due to Shelter-in-place restrictions.
Due to Contra Costa Health Services order to cease nonessential operations and gatherings in order to limit community exposure to COVID-19, all city buildings are closed until further notice. CCC still has widespread Covid cases so in person activities for seniors remain on hold. There are some virtual activities being held such as zoom bingo & trivia (see the list of virtual activities here.) City services for seniors can be found here.
As a result of the recommended social distancing requirements by public health officials, concerns about the mental well-being of seniors are increasing. Social isolation in the country for people over 65 was already at a dangerously high level. What happens when the most easily accessible channels for social interaction for seniors are closed?
Hopefully seniors will seek support if needed. A few recommended resources include:
- Institute on Aging’s Friendship Line.
- National Network of Villages – network of social clubs for older adults rooted in geographic locations offering social outlets and various activities many virtually during this time (membership-based, fees required, but many offer scholarships) Click here to find a village near you.
- Letters Against Isolation – a nationwide letter writing campaign for isolated seniors.
- Well Connected (previously known as Senior Center without Walls) – offers seniors access to all kinds of activities virtually via computer, tablet or over the phone.