SOWEGA Council on Aging’s doors are closed but vital services still available

ALBANY, Ga. – The SOWEGA Council on Aging is still up and running, just not running as usual due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The agency is still helping Southwest Georgia seniors.

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The SOWEGA Council on Aging cancelled their engaging activities, beloved events, and their doors are closed in the 14 county regions that they serve.

But for people over 60 and individuals with disabilities of any age, the show must go on.

“I want them to know, and I want our community to know and I want our aging population to know that the SOWEGA Council on Aging is here for them,” says Executive Director Izzie Sadler. 

The agency is taking necessary steps to protect the health of their employees and the vulnerable population they serve.

“All senior center participants are currently receiving emergency home-delivered meals. Services such as case managements, assessments, client safety checks, and caregiver support groups are now being provided over the telephone, necessary in-home services are on going with precautions in place such as using protective gear and social distancing.”

Sadler says The agency’s call volume is high, but to leave a voicemail if you are seeking more information on available resources.

She says individuals over 60 or those with disabilities may be considered for  their shelter-in-place meals. Screening for available resources is done over the phone.

“If you do not reach anybody we will get back to you. We’re all in this together and the counseling agency is here to serve you,” says Sadler

In the upcoming days, the agency anticipates additional funding that will be used to provide even more meals to homebound seniors.

For now, the SOWEGA Council on aging centers will be closed until April 30th.

Individuals needing information, meals or other services may contact the SOWEGA Council on Aging’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-800-282-6612.