Although California has fully reopened its economy since June 15, there are still some risks for the older adult population to transition back to their normal lives. With the disconnection from the public, older adults may feel isolated and struggle to maintain proper relationships when it comes to socialization.

Covia is a nonprofit centered in the Bay Area that provides senior living communities, programs, and more. The Well Connected program by Covia offers phone and online activities that build community through group conversations, games, and education. In this time of separation for some populations, Well Connected helps adults over the age of 60 feel intellectually stimulated by connecting with professionals and others in similar situations all from the comforts of their own home.

By utilizing the resources provided through their extensive catalog, eligible participants are provided with an abundance of resources to a virtual community that offers activities like educational classes and tutorials all accessible through the internet or phone. Well Connected is accessible to low vision and blind participants. Materials are available in large print, Braille, and audio.

Individuals who may be eligible can start off by registering for the program by calling in or registering online at any time. The Well Connected program’s online catalog provides an extensive list of classes, including the program guide and schedule. There is no limit to the number of groups you can join. You can join the group by phone through a toll-free telephone number or online through a device that is connected to the internet.

To learn more about Covia’s Well Connected program and how to get started, contact Covia at (877) 797-7299 or email coviaconnections@covia.org.

A new study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discovered that the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines authorized by the Food and Drug Administration (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna) reduce the risk of infection by 91 percent for fully vaccinated people.

Initial results from the study were first shared in March 2021. According to CDC, there were 3,975 participants who completed weekly SARS-CoV-2 testing for 17 following weeks (between December 13, 2020 – April 10, 2021) in eight U.S. locations in the new analysis. Participants who became infected with SARS-CoV-2 were placed into their own individual group and compared to a group of unvaccinated, infected participants. The studies showed that those who were fully or partially vaccinated while testing positive for COVID-19 were less likely to spread the virus to others.

As stated by CDC, the data collected shows “Fully or partially vaccinated study participants had 40 percent less detectable virus in their nose and the virus was detected for six fewer days, compared to those who were unvaccinated when infected.” Also, partially or fully vaccinated people were 66 percent less likely to test positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection for more than one week compared to those who were not vaccinated.

Overall, the data collected by CDC also shows a correlation with the reduced spread of other viruses, such as varicella and influenza. The study findings support CDC’s recommendation to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as people can.

To learn more about COVID-19 vaccine information, speak with a Community Resource Specialist: (408) 350-3200, option 1.

Most people know good nutrition and physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight. Though, the benefits of good nutrition can go beyond weight.

Maintaining a healthy diet can reduce the risk of some diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Good nutrition can also help improve your wellbeing, improve your ability to fight off illness, and your ability to recover from illness or injury. According to National Council on Aging, your metabolism slows down as you grow older so you need fewer calories than before.

Your body also needs more of certain nutrients, so being selective of the foods you eat can give you the best nutritional value. Your plate should look like a rainbow-bright, colored foods are the best choice and can make eating healthy enjoyable.

A healthy meal should include:

• Lean protein (lean meats, seafood, eggs, beans)
• Fruits and vegetables (think orange, red, green, and purple)
• Whole grains (brown rice, whole-wheat pasta)
• Low-fat dairy (milk and its alternatives)

To maintain your weight, eat the right amount of food for your age and body. The American Heart Association provides recommended daily servings for adults 60 and older.

Looking for ways to improve your nutrition? The What’s on Your Plate? is a free publication from the National Institute on Aging that offers information on healthy eating plans, nutrients, food safety, and more.

To learn about getting access to healthy food, speak with a Community Resource Specialist: (408) 350-3200, option 1.

Amidst the pandemic, American households continue to struggle to put food on the table. Known federally as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), it provides monthly food benefits to low-income individuals and families. CalFresh Food is California’s name for the federal food program called SNAP that used to be known as Food Stamps.

Announced by the County of Santa Clara Social Services Agency, from January 1, 2021, through September 30, 2021, all CalFresh benefits are being increased by 15 percent. The increase in benefits is added to participants’ monthly benefits on their normal issuance date. There is no extra paperwork to turn in to get the extra CalFresh benefits. Households that already receive the maximum amount of benefits will not receive an extra issuance.

CalFresh allows participants to buy healthy food at most stores, such as food outlets, grocery stores, and farmers markets. CalFresh issues the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to program participants. Locations post signs if your EBT card can be used there. If you are homeless, disabled, or 60 years of age and older, you can use your EBT card to purchase hot, prepared food at some participating restaurants. To find restaurants that accept EBT cards, visit County of Santa Clara CalFresh Food Restaurant Meals Program.

To learn more about CalFresh, speak with a Community Resource Specialist: (408) 350-3200, option 1.