Services and Supports for Longer-Term Impacts of COVID-19

Posted in COVID-19, Senior Living

Mary Madison, RN, RAC-CT, CDP
Clinical Consultant – Briggs Healthcare

“COVID-19 has affected all aspects of health, including mental health, and disrupted daily life. It created additional obstacles for those experiencing mental health and substance use challenges. Further, many people have been forced to cope with the death of loved ones, especially children, and face the aftermath of those losses. Millions of Americans continue to experience lingering symptoms after an initial infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. This (August 2022) report outlines federally funded supports and services for individuals experiencing the effects of COVID-19 in the areas of mental health, substance use, and bereavement. In addition, the Services Report lists federally funded supports and services for individuals experiencing disabilities due to Long COVID and associated conditions.

This report (124 pages) provides webpage information and telephone numbers that are relevant for:

• Individuals experiencing Long COVID and associated conditions

• Health care personnel who work with and treat individuals experiencing Long COVID

• Individuals experiencing longer-term impacts of COVID-19, including mental health and substance use challenges

• Individuals dealing with the loss of family members or loved ones to COVID-19. The report serves as an initial resource guide to help individuals, their families, and caregivers find needed supports, services, and reasonable modifications to receive health care and treatment, work, go to school, and stably live in the community. It is also useful for community organizations, health care enterprises, and public health agencies who work with individuals experiencing longer-term effects of COVID-19. It will inform the development of additional resources and tools created by the federal government for individuals, families, and communities to navigate the federal supports and services available to them.”

There is a wealth of information in this report.  Please share it with your team and colleagues.  Use it to improve the care and lives of those you care for, including yourself.