AARP Coronavirus Resources

You know AARP as a fierce advocate for our 2.5 million New York members on many important issues, but we also serve all older New Yorkers by providing the information, tools, and resources they need to manage and strengthen their health, financial stability, and personal fulfillment.

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to take a toll on communities across our state, we are doubling down on work to support older New Yorkers. AARP is convening experts to share critical information through webinars and tele-town hall meetings. We are connecting those in need with community volunteers. And we are making valuable programs, information, and tools available online. As a social mission organization, we are proving all these resources for free.

We think this is valuable information, available in both English and Spanish, that you may wish to share with your memberships and networks. Please feel free to email me with any questions or feedback at bfinkel@aarp.org.

Dedicated Coronavirus Website

On our website, you can find extensive coronavirus information and resources, which are updated regularly. It includes dozens of stories, videos, and tips designed to help people protect themselves and cope throughout this difficult time. Folks can sign up for our daily newsletter and find a whole lot more of AARP's coronavirus resources like the ones below at www.aarp.org/coronavirus and in Spanish at www.aarp.org/elcoronavirus.

AARP Community Connections

AARP has launched a new online platform that allows users to organize and find local volunteer groups to help pick up groceries, provide financial assistance, or lend emotional support to neighbors, friends and loved ones. Across the country, these informal mutual aid groups will help communities stay connected and care for older adults and others who are at the greatest risk. To help combat social isolation, the site also offers access to more than 600 trained volunteers (and the number grows daily) who are standing by and ready to call anyone who wants to hear a friendly voice. For more information, visit www.aarpcommunityconnections.org.

National Tele-town Hall Meetings

Through weekly national tele-town hall meetings, AARP has connected more than 100,000 people with federal officials and experts for information on a range of issues related to the coronavirus. During these live events, participants have asked questions – and gotten answers – on topics including safety and prevention, Medicare beneficiary costs, coverage and policies related to telehealth services, avoiding frauds and scams, and caring for loved ones. We plan to continue hosting tele-town halls every Thursday at 1 p.m. ET. Information about upcoming events as well as transcripts and audio recordings of past events are available here.

State Tele-town Hall Meetings

AARP New York is also hosting weekly tele-town hall meeting every Friday at 1 p.m. ET, to participate the toll-free is 877-229-8493 and enter PIN 18948. Visit www.vekeo.com/aarpnewyork for audio recordings of past events.

Coronavirus Frauds & Scams

Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the coronavirus.

AARP’s Fraud Watch Network Helpline, a free resource for AARP members and nonmembers alike, provides callers with information to protect themselves and their families as well as guidance and emotional support for those who have been victimized by fraud. The Helpline is operated by staff and volunteers with extensive training and experience fighting scams that target older Americans. For more information, visit, the Fraud Watch Network Helpline or to report a scam, visit our Fraud Tracker.

Caregivers

For family caregivers, the pandemic poses enormous challenges and lots of questions. AARP is providing information and resources to help caregivers protect themselves and those they care for. The risk is real, but we know that having an action plan in place can help with the anxiety and ensure loved ones are taken care of if a caregiver gets sick. Families can also connect with other caregivers and hear from experts in AARP’s Caregiver group on Facebook. AARP’s resources for caregiving during Coronavirus resources are available at www.aarp.org/caregiving.

Livable Communities

To shine a spotlight on how communities are meeting the needs of older residents during the pandemic, AARP is featuring community responses on our Livable Communities website.