Resources to Fight Social Isolation Plus Our Free Maine Family Caregiver Resource Guide

Even in the best of times, social isolation is a significant problem. In Maine, over 135,000 people 50 and older live alone and are at higher risk of social isolation. If there is one thing the pandemic made clear, it's that personal connections are immensely valuable and sorely missed.

AARP Maine has gathered helpful resources that are available to Mainers who may experience loneliness. Long-term social isolation can negatively impact a person’s health. Let’s work together to prevent this! Sometimes there are obstacles to our being socially connected, but that doesn't mean we have to be alone.

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RESOURCES TO ADDRESS SOCIAL ISOLATION

• Measure your risk for isolation: AARP Foundation's www.Connect2Affect.org can help measure a person's risk for social isolation. This resource also provides a list of community assistance programs for medical care, food, and job training.
• Friendly calls from an AARP Volunteer: Sometimes, just hearing a friendly voice can help in challenging times. Trained AARP Friendly Voice volunteers will provide a call to say hello. You can request a "friendly call" from an AARP volunteer at www.aarpcommunityconnections.org/friendly-voices/ or by calling 1-888-281-0145.
• Volunteer: This allows you to assist others while also helping you avoid isolation. There are many virtual opportunities, and you can visit www.createthegood.aarp.org to learn more.
• Contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center: The five Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in Maine serve as “one-stop-shops” to answer questions from older adults, individuals with disabilities and their care partners about a wide range of in-home, community-based, and institutional services. You can find your regional Area Agency on Aging here: www.maine4a.org/ or by calling 877-353-3771
• Your Local Library: Many local libraries offer technology training to help people use video conferencing technology like Zoom. To connect with your local library please check the Public Library Directory at: www.maine.gov/msl or call your local town office.
• Older Adult Services Maine: The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) oversees programs and services that help older adults, adults with physical and cognitive disabilities, and their care partners maintain overall well-being. Visit their website here: www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads or call (207) 287-3707.
• 211 Maine: A statewide directory of over 8,000 health and human services available in Maine, including senior services, medical loan closets, and home care services. The toll-free hotline connects callers to trained call specialists who provide help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Voice 2-1-1 or 1-866-811-5695
  • Toll Free 1-877-463-6207
  • TTY 211
  • info@211maine.org
  • www.211maine.org

RESOURCES FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

• At AARP Maine, we know that caregiving can be one of the most important roles you will ever take on in your life. You may have become a caregiver suddenly or perhaps your role has evolved over time. Maybe you are looking for caregiving resources for yourself or a friend and aren’t sure where to turn. These resources can help.
• AARP Maine Family Caregiver Resource Guide: This directory lists many government and nonprofit resources, which you can access both in-person and online. You can download the guide hereTo receive a printed copy by postal mail, call 877-333-5885. To receive a PDF version by email, write to me@aarp.org
• AARP Prepare to Care Guides: Prepare to Care Resource Guides are designed to help develop and implement a caregiving plan for a loved one or friend. You can view the available guides here. Email us at AARP Maine to order your guide or call 877-333-5885, select option 1, and request the "Prepare to Care: A Planning Guide for Families.”
• AARP Caregiver Online Resource Center: We also recommend that you visit the AARP Caregiver Online Resource Center at www.aarp.org/caregiving for a broad array of additional resources and tools for caregivers. The Resource Center also offers a toll-free support line for family caregivers: 1-877-333-5885.
• State of Maine Caregiver Supports: The Office of Aging and Disability Services in the Maine DHHS also offers information and caregiving resources. You can find a summary of these resources at: www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/older-adults-disabilities/care-partner-supports or https://bit.ly/2Y93Q1K .  

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