The safety and well-being of Pennsylvania's older adults and their families and caregivers are the Pennsylvania Department of Aging's top priorities. To keep you updated during COVID-19, we have developed a list of resources and updates to programs and services that we provide.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new virus that results in respiratory illness and is extremely contagious. Symptoms include
.
Some people, including older adults, seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19. Reducing exposure for those with greater risk is especially important.
How to Reduce Exposure
- Stay home as much as possible
- Wash your hands often
- Keep space between yourself and others (6 feet)
- Wear a cloth facemask when in public
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
What to Do if You Think You May Have COVID-19
If you think you may have symptoms of COVID-19,
stay home and call your doctor. If you do not have a health care provider, call 1-877-PA-HEALTH.
Know the
Emergency Warning Signs
Emergency warning signs may include difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, an inability to rouse, bluish lips or face or any other issues that are severe.
If you develop emergency warning signs
seek medical care immediately.
COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shots
All adults in Pennsylvania are now eligible to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine booster. Based on CDC recommendation, everyone 18 and older can schedule a booster dose six months after receiving their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna or two months after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
The CDC also recommended that 16 and 17-year-olds who received Pfizer as their initial doses can schedule a Pfizer booster dose six months after receiving their second dose.
Frequently Asked Questions: COVID-19 Vaccine
While the Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) does not oversee the COVID-19 vaccination process, we recognize that older adults are especially vulnerable during the pandemic and we're doing all we can to help improve the process to get vaccines to older adults. Vaccination is an important step to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus, and our department wants all older adults to be informed, feel secured, and be prepared to participate in the vaccination process.
Older Pennsylvanians
Printable PDFs (English) Printable PDFs (Spanish)
Stay Up-to-Date
For the most accurate and timely information regarding COVID-19 in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health's COVID-19 Resource Page or call 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258).
Where to Go for Help
Your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) can connect you to programs and services that can help you stay home and stay safe. While the physical AAA offices are closed, they are still operating and taking calls. Use the
Area Agency on Aging Locator to find the AAA serving your local area.
The PA Link assists older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing information and connecting them to supports and services they need (non-medical and medical) to live safely in their homes and communities. Contact the PA Link Call Center by phone at 1-800-753-8827 or online at
www.carelink.pa.gov.
The PA Department of Transportation can help assist senior citizens and persons with limited mobility. There is a wide range of shared-ride and public transportation programs available to help Pennsylvania residents enjoy the benefits of alternative transportation regardless of income or physical disability. For schedules and hours of service, contact your local public transit agency.
Did you lose your CDC COVID-19 vaccination card? Submit a request to receive your immunization records through the PA Department of Health.