MNRAAA’s Offices Temporarily Closed

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We have been monitoring the latest events and advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Minnesota Department of Health on COVID-19. Based on their recommendations, we will be temporarily closing the MNRAAA offices in Mankato and Slayton effective Tuesday, March 17.

The Senior LinkAge Line is available via telephone at 1-800-333-2433, or you can chat with them online at mnhelp.info.

All MNRAAA and Senior LinkAge Line outreach events, presentations and trainings have been canceled.

For the most up-to-date information about the MNRAAA offices and events, please follow our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MNRAAA. If you have any questions, you can contact MNRAAA at 507-387-1256.

IMPORTANT LINKS & CONTACTS
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Coronavirus Update

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We understand the growing concern surrounding coronavirus and COVID-19, and our hearts go out to all those who have been affected.
We will be monitoring this quickly evolving situation closely. Currently, there are no reported cases of COVID-19 in southwestern Minnesota, but it is important to take everyday precautions and follow guidance from public health agencies. We will refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other public health agencies to determine the safest course of action for our employees, partners and visitors.
Jason W. Swanson, HSE
Executive Director, MNRAAA
507-387-1256 x103
jswanson@mnraaa.org
GUIDANCE FOR OLDER ADULTS AND THOSE THAT ARE HIGH RISK
The information below is taken from the CDC’s website. For more information for older adults and those at higher risk for serious illness, please go to www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html.
WHO IS AT HIGHER RISK?
It is very important for people at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 to take actions to reduce their risk of getting sick with the disease. People at a higher risk for serious illness include:
  • Older adults
  • People who have serious chronic medical conditions like:
    • Heart disease
    • Diabetes
    • Lung disease
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU ARE HIGH RISK?
If your current health condition puts you at high risk of serious illness from COVID-19, you should:
  • Stock up on necessary supplies.
    • Have enough medication and medical supplies in case there is an outbreak of COVID-19 in your community and you need to stay home for a prolonged period of time.
    • Have enough household items and groceries on hand in case you need to stay home for a period of time.
  • Stay away from large crowds and people who are sick, limit close contact to people and wash your hands often.
  • Stay in touch with others by phone or email.
  • Avoid non-essential travel.
  • During a COVID-19 outbreak in your community, stay home as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU GET SICK?
  • Stay home and call your doctor
    • Let your healthcare provider know about your symptoms. Tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will help them take care of you and keep other people from getting infected or exposed.
  • If you are not sick enough to be hospitalized, you can recover at home. Follow CDC instructions for how to take care of yourself at home.
  • Get medical attention immediately if you develop any of these emergency warning signs:
    • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
    • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
    • New confusion or inability to arouse
    • Bluish lips or face
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO SUPPORT OLDER ADULTS?
  • Be vigilant to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19 by taking everyday precautions.
  • Know what medications your loved one is taking and see if you can help them to have extra on hand.
  • Monitor food and other medical supplies (oxygen, incontinence, dialysis, wound care) needed and create a back-up plan.
  • Stock up on non-perishable food items to have on hand in your home to minimize trips to stores.
  • If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation, ask about the health of the other residents frequently and know the protocol if there is an outbreak.
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Madelia Hosts MNRAAA’s Staff Retreat

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Downtown Madelia was busier than usual on September 9. Staff, volunteers and board members converged on Madelia for their bi-annual staff retreat.

“We had a great turnout and we were excited to be in Madelia” stated Jason W. Swanson, Executive Director, “we were able to utilize numerous local businesses to assist us during the training.” The retreat was held at Lost Sanity Brewery and catering was provided by Sweet Indeed Bakery and Fox’s Pizza Den.

“Although we have offices in Mankato and Slayton, some of our 39 staff are based throughout our 27 county planning and service area, so it is nice to get everyone together once in a while.” The training that took place featured Age Sensitivity Training which had everyone go through what it may feel like to have vision and dexterity impairments and other conditions associated with the aging process. A specialist presented on keeping yourself safe when working with potentially dangerous individuals. Staff was also training on communicating positively about aging. “Currently, people are living longer and healthier lives, and I personally think this is great! We have an opportunity to embrace this and work to establish communities throughout the region that are friendly for every generation!” stated Swanson.

MNRAAA provides support through different avenues, which include, administration of funds under the Older Americans Act, developing services in communities where gaps in service may exist, information and assistance through the Senior LinkAge Line and providing advocacy for older adults and caregivers at the local, state and federal level.

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